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 At least 15 Palestinians killed by Israeli bombings on Gaza City: sources Xinhua) 00:31, November 17, 2024 GAZA, Nov. 16 (Xinhua) -- At least 15 Palestinians were killed on Saturday in Israeli airstrikes on a barbershop and a school housing displaced people in Gaza City, Palestinian sources said. An Israeli aircraft targeted a barbershop in central Gaza City, local sources and eyewitnesses told Xinhua. A press statement issued by the Palestinian Civil Defense Authority in Gaza said the airstrike killed five people and wounded dozens of others. Israeli aircraft also targeted the Abu Asi school, which houses displaced families in the al-Shati refugee camp, west of Gaza City, with two missiles, according to local sources and witnesses. The Civil Defense said in a separate statement that its workers recovered 10 bodies, including those of women and children, and found 20 others injured, noting that the school had been targeted multiple times. Medics told Xinhua that the number of fatalities at the school is expected to rise in the coming hours as search efforts continue for missing people beneath the rubble. There was no Israeli comment on the two raids. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement on Saturday that in the Gaza Strip, IDF troops have continued their operational activity in the areas of Jabalia and Beit Lahia, both in the northern Gaza Strip. Over the past day, the air force struck over 160 targets belonging to Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, it added. Israel has been conducting a large-scale offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip to retaliate against a Hamas rampage through the southern Israeli border on Oct. 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and about 250 taken hostage. The Palestinian death toll from the ongoing Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip has reached 43,799, while the number of injuries has climbed to 103,601, Gaza-based health authorities said in a statement on Saturday. (Web editor: Cai Hairuo, Liu Ning) Christopher Tomlinson/The Daily Sentinel It cost taxpayers about $3.1 million to fix fallen and weakened rocks and install fencing along a stretch of De Beque Canyon south of Interstate 70, after irrigation water from Western Slope Flagstone Quarry damaged the canyon walls and the roadway in July 2019. The family of quarry owner Rudy Fontanari, who died in January, lost an appeal Thursday and will have to pay more than $500,000 in legal fees. Iran denies reports of meeting with Elon Musk Tehran, Nov 16 (UNI) Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei on Saturday denied the reports that the country's ambassador to the United Nations (UN) had met with Elon Musk, a close adviser to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. He made the remarks in an interview with the official news agency IRNA two days after reports by U.S. media, citing two unnamed Iranian officials, claimed that Musk had met with Iran's UN Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani on Monday in New York to discuss "how to defuse tensions" between Tehran and Washington. Baghaei categorically rejected the claim, saying he was surprised at its "extensive" coverage in U.S. media. 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. The Glasgow City Council will meet in regular session, Monday, Nov. 18, 5 p.m., in the Council Chambers, located inside of the Glasgow Civic Center. Click on the image above to view the full agenda. Russo-Ukraine War - 16 November 2024 - Day 997 Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace. "To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal] The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that the Defense Forces of Ukraine continue to withhold the pressure of the Russian occupation troops. The situation in the Pokrovsk and Kurakhivsk directions remains tense - the Russian enemy is focusing the main offensive efforts there. So far, there have been 132 combat clashes. Today, Russia made a rocket strike with one rocket, 56 air strikes, dropping at this 74 cab. In addition, the Russian zombies used 593 kamikaze drones for strikes and carried out more than 3,600 shelling at the positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements. In the Kharkiv direction, Russian terrorists have five times unsuccessfully stormed the positions of Ukrainian units in the area of Vovchansk and Strilechoy, another attack is ongoing. Ten times Russian forces attacked Ukrainian positions in the Kupyan direction. Near the settlements of Pitscni, Kolisnikivka, Kruglyakivka, Zagrizove, the Defense Forces repelled nine assaults. There's a battle going on. Airstrikes were hit by districts of settlements Berestove, Borivska Andriyivka, Nova Kruglyakivka, Shiykivka. In the Lyman direction today, Russian troops have attacked Ukrainian defenders ten times in the areas of settlements Grekivka, Makiyivka, Cherneshina, Tverdohlibove, Terni. All Russian attacks have been repelled. Aviation strikes were hit by districts of settlements Borov, Ivanivka, Dronivka, Shiykivka. In Toretsk and in the direction of Scherbinivka, Russian forces tried seven times to improve his position in the Toretsk direction, to the same time the aggressor's aviation bombarded the areas of settlements Ivanopil, Konstantinivka, Svitlodarsk, Petrivka. On the pokrovs komu direction during this day Russian forces 32 times attacked Ukrainian positions in the areas of mirolubivki, fox, beam, cool yaru, petrivki, novooleksiiivki and desert. One battle is still going on. The enemy launched air strikes in the areas of settlements of Sukha Balka, Rivne, Mirnograd, Sukhi Yar, Krynycha, New Labor. According to preliminary estimates, today Russian forces on the Pokrovsky direction lost 340 soldiers killed and wounded. One BTR, one BBM, four units of automotive equipment, one motorcycle and one cannon of the occupiers were destroyed. Also Ukrainian defenders caused significant damage to two tanks, one BTR and a cannon. In the Kurakhiv direction at this time of the day 25 Russian attacks were recorded. One of them goes on. Mainly fighting take place in the areas of Nova Illinka, Berestki, Novoselidivka, Voznesenka, Sontsivka, Novodmitrivka, Zorya, Kurakhove, Dalne, Katerinivka and Antonivka. Russian forces dropped one CAB on Hannivka. Fourteen times today Russian forces attacked the front edge of Ukrainian defense in the areas of Romanivka, Suhikh Yaliv, Novodarivka, Trudovoye, Yantarnoy and Rivnopol in the Vremivsky direction, three attacks are ongoing. At the same time, Russian forces caused air strikes in the areas of great novosilka, temirivki and and andrivki. Four times unsuccessfully, Russian forces attacked the positions of Ukrainian defenders in the Pridnipro direction. The Defense Forces of Ukraine continue their operation in Kurshchyna, where Ukrainian troops repelled 24 attacks of the enemy. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that in Kharkov direction, the units of the Sever Group of Forces have defeated formations of foreign mercenaries, manpower, and hardware of 122nd and 125th territorial defence brigades near Veliky Burluk, Malye Prokhody, and Volchansk (Kharkov region). The AFU losses were up to 70 troops, four 152-mm D-20 howitzers, and three 122-mm D-30 howitzers. Two ammunition depots have been wiped out. The units of the Zapad Group of Forces have taken more advantageous lines and positions. Russian troops have hit AFU 63rd, 67th mechanised brigades, and the 109th Territorial Defence Brigade near Kirovsk, Terny, and Krasny Liman (Donetsk People's Republic). Two counter-attacks launched by assault detachments of AFU's 14th and 28th mechanised brigades have been repelled. The AFU losses were up to 440 troops, one infantry fighting vehicle, one U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carrier, nine motor vehicles, one Partizan multiple-launch rocket system, one Polish-made 155-mm Krab self-propelled artillery system, one 122-mm Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system, and two U.S.-made 105-mm M119 guns. Three ammunition depots have been wiped out. The units of the Yug Group of Forces have improved the tactical position. Russian troops have inflicted fire damage on 24th, 54th, 110th mechanised brigades, 46th and 77th airmobile brigades of the AFU near Slavyansk, Seversk, Dachnoye, Andreyevka, Dobrovolye, and Kurakhovo (Donetsk People's Republic). Two counter-attacks launched by enemy assault detachments have been repelled. The AFU losses were up to 625 troops, three motor vehicles, and two 122-mm D-30 howitzers. Two electronic warfare stations and one ammunition depot have been eliminated. As a result of successful offensive actions, the units of the Tsentr Group of Forces have liberated Leninskoye (Donetsk People's Republic). Russian troops have delivered strikes at manpower and hardware of 24th, 42nd, 117th mechanised brigades, 68th, 71st, 152nd jaeger brigades, and the 35th Marine Brigade near Petrovka, Dyleyevka, Selidovo, Ilyinka, Novogrodovka, and Novodmitrovka (Donetsk People's Republic). Four counter-attacks of AFU assault detachments have been repelled. The AFU losses were more than 370 troops, one infantry fighting vehicle, five armoured fighting vehicles, five motor vehicles, two 152-mm Msta-B howitzers, three 122-mm D-30 howitzers, and one 100-mm Rapira anti-tank gun. The units of the Vostok Group of Forces have liberated Makarovka (Donetsk People's Republic). Russian troops have delivered strikes at manpower and hardware of 113th, 117th, and 129th territorial defence brigades near Razliv, Velikaya Novosyolka (Donetsk People's Republic), and Novodarovka (Zaporozhye region). One counter-attack launched by an AFU assault group has been repelled. The AFU losses were up to 140 troops, two tanks, two armoured fighting vehicles, six motor vehicles, and two 152-mm Akatsiya self-propelled artillery systems. The units of the Dnepr Group of Forces have engaged manpower and hardware of the 118th Mechanised Brigade of the AFU, 124th, 129th territorial defence brigades, and the 3rd National Guard Brigade close to Orekhov, Novoandreyevka (Zaporozhye region), Mikhaylovka, and Kamyshany (Kherson region). The AFU losses were up to 110 troops, three motor vehicles, and one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer. Operational-Tactical Aviation, attack unmanned aerial vehicles, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces have engaged Ukrainian power infrastructure that supported actions of the AFU, the military airfield infrastructure, manufacturing shops and storage areas of unmanned aerial vehicles as well as clusters of enemy manpower and military hardware in 165 areas. Air defence facilities have shot down four U.S.-made HIMARS MLRS projectiles and 102 fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles. In total, since the beginning of the special military operation, 648 aircraft, 283 helicopters, 35,960 unmanned aerial vehicles, 586 anti-aircraft missile systems, 19,343 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,489 MLRS combat vehicles, 17,972 field artillery guns and mortars, and 28,437 units of support military vehicles have been neutralised. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation also reported that the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the operation to neutralise an enemy group, which broke into the territory of Kursk region. The units of the Sever Group of Forces inflicted losses on formations of 21st, 22nd, 41st, 47th, 61st, 115th mechanised brigades, the 17th Tank Brigade, 80th, 82nd, 95th air assault brigades, the 36th Marine Brigade, 103rd, 112th, 129th territorial defence brigades of the AFU near Aleksandriya, Daryino, Martynovka, Maryevka, Nikolayevo-Daryino, Pogrebki, and Sverdlikovo. Army Aviation and artillery inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the enemy near Lebedevka, Novoivanovka, Sverdlikovo, and Cherkasskoye Porechnoye. During the day, the enemy losses were 255 troops, three armoured personnel carriers, one armoured fighting vehicle, seven motor vehicles, one anti-aircraft missile system, one 152-mm D-20 howitzer, and one electronic warfare station. Since the beginning of hostilities in Kursk region, the AFU losses were more than 32,930 troops, 213 tanks, 136 infantry fighting vehicles, 115 armoured personnel carriers, 1,167 armoured fighting vehicles, 951 motor vehicles, 284 artillery guns, 40 MLRS launchers, including 11 of HIMARS and six of MLRS made by the USA, 13 anti-aircraft missile launchers, seven transport-loading vehicles, 65 EW stations, 13 counter-battery warfare radars, four air defence radars, 27 units of engineering and other materiel, including 13 counterobstacle vehicles, one UR-77 mine clearing vehicle, six armoured recovery vehicles, and one command post vehicle. The operation to neutralise the AFU units is in progress. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NEW YORK, Nov. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of securities of Terran Orbital Corporation (NYSE: LLAP) between August 15, 2023 and August 14, 2024, both dates inclusive (the Class Period), of the important November 26, 2024 lead plaintiff deadline. SO WHAT: If you purchased Terran securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Terran class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=29314 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than November 26, 2024. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs Bar. Many of the firms attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers. DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, during the Class Period, defendants made materially false and misleading statements and/or failed to disclose to investors that: (1) it would take much longer than defendants had represented to investors and analysts for Terran to convert its contracts with its customers (collectively, Customer Contracts) into revenue and free cash flow; (2) Terran did not have adequate liquidity to operate its business while waiting for the Customer Contracts to generate revenue and free cash flow; (3) Terran had concealed the true scope and severity of its dire financial situation; and (4) as a result of the foregoing, Terrans public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages. To join the Terran class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=29314 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investors ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm or on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. ------------------------------- Contact Information: Laurence Rosen, Esq. Phillip Kim, Esq. The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. 275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor New York, NY 10016 Tel: (212) 686-1060 Toll Free: (866) 767-3653 Fax: (212) 202-3827 case@rosenlegal.com www.rosenlegal.com RADNOR, Pa., Nov. 17, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The law firm of Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP (www.ktmc.com) is currently investigating potential violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of investors of Wolfspeed, Inc. (NYSE: WOLF) (Wolfspeed). On November 6, 2024, during after-market hours, Reuters published an article entitled Chipmaker Wolfspeed projects revenue below estimates on weak auto demand, shares sink. Specifically, the article stated that Wolfspeed forecast quarterly revenue below estimates on Wednesday and said it would book $174 million in restructuring charges for the planned closure of a facility, as the chipmaker deals with sluggish demand from automotive customers. [. . .] The company dropped plans last month to build a factory in Ensdorf, Germany, citing the slower adoption of EVs in Europe. On this news, Wolfspeeds stock price fell 39%, to close at $8.33 per share on November 7, 2024. If you are a Wolfspeed investor and would like to learn more about our investigation, please CLICK HERE to fill out our online form or contact Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP: Jonathan Naji, Esq. (484) 270-1453 or E-mail at info@ktmc.com. You can also click on the following link or paste it in your browser: https://www.ktmc.com/wolfspeed-inc-investigation?utm_source=PR&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=wolf&mktm=r Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP prosecutes class actions in state and federal courts throughout the country involving securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duties and other violations of state and federal law. Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP is a driving force behind corporate governance reform, and has recovered billions of dollars on behalf of institutional and individual investors from the United States and around the world. The firm represents investors, consumers and whistleblowers (private citizens who report fraudulent practices against the government and share in the recovery of government dollars). For more information about Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP, please visit www.ktmc.com. CONTACT: Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP Jonathan Naji, Esq. 280 King of Prussia Road Radnor, PA 19087 (484) 270-1453 info@ktmc.com May be considered attorney advertising in certain jurisdictions. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Music groups kill talents Wiafe SwiitLypz of Dunsin fame Gifty Owusu-Amoah Showbiz News Nov - 17 - 2024 , 08:03 3 minutes read ALTHOUGH he was leader of Dunsin, a defunct music trio which occupied good space in the Ghanaian music industry in the late 2000s, Wiafe SwiitLypz now has huge reservations about music groupsto him, they destroy talents. As if that is not enough, they also tend to render musicians lazy so its not advisable for solo artistes to come together to form music groups. In an interview with Graphic Showbiz on Tuesday, November 12, Wiafe SwiitLypz disclosed his past experience has taught him a lesson and he would never be a member of any ensemble again. And for those who have been asking, creating another group or working on the comeback of Dunsin is the farthest from his mind. Hes had his fair share of challenges as a member of a group and thats enough. Advertisement I will not hesitate one bit to discourage up-and-coming artistes from forming groups. They should concentrate on their solo careers and pursue their dreams. Being part of a group can be energy draining and its killing talents. Ive taken this position because oftentimes in a group, there are members who are not only lazy but too laid back and because groups demand collective energies, it slows down the serious ones. Personally, I dont think its advisable, at all, he stated. However, in an earlier interview with Graphic Showbiz, Wutah Kobby of Wutah fame challenged musicians to come together since a variety of talents allowed groups to stand out as well as compose great songs. He had intimated that variety was the spice of life thus a collective effort created magic and also members could share cost of financial burden. Wiafe SwiitLypz acknowledged the advantages of music groups yet argued the disadvantages far outweighed the positives. Its very understandable that groups have advantages because its always a collective effort but that is always not the case. There are always selfish interests of individuals so while some members are working hard, others are thinking about themselves. Mostly, the energy is not the same and when negative energy is higher, it slows everyone down, killing ambitions which results in mediocrity, he added. Dunsin, made up of Ernest Obeng aka Omega, Ahmed Kenneh Larweh aka Sparqlyin and Wiafe SwiitLypz was created in 2003. The group was a force to be reckoned with back then with hit songs such as Fefeefe, Oyadieyie and Falaa. However, the trio, who had shown lots of potential broke up in 2018 and members went their separate ways. After almost an eight-year hiatus, Wiafe SwiitLypz returned to the music scene as a solo artiste with a new single, Abba Father in May this year. He followed it up with Im in Love featuring Oheneba Kissi in June and he is set to release another one, Feeling Good later this month. Wiafe SwiitLypzs return to the music scene has been without a bang but hes hopeful that with consistency, he will soon find his footing once again. I understand that its difficult to win the love and support of the audience after a long break so Im not shaken at all. Gradually, I know Wiafe SwiitLypz will get there but at the moment, Im focused on what matters most, and that is producing good songs, he added. Justice William Atuguba (rtd) on why Supreme Court should not have entertained Afenyo-Markins suit Mohammed Ali Nov - 17 - 2024 , 12:44 3 minutes read A retired justice of the Supreme Court, William Atuguba has been very vocal recently in relation to the recent suit by the Majority Leader in Parliament Alexander Afenyo-Markin. Prior to judgement, he had argued that he felt the appropriate forum for the suit was the High Court and not the Supreme Court. He said this in separate interviews with TV3 and Joy News. On Saturday (Nov 16], he granted another interview to TV3 and reiterated his position and disagreed with the Supreme Court for handling a case concerning the interpretation of Article 97(1)(g) and (h) of the 1992 Constitution. In the TV3 interview aired on Satuday, Justice Atuguba argued that the case should have been referred to the High Court in line with constitutional requirements. The Supreme Court shouldnt have entertained this particular case at all, Justice Atuguba stated, explaining that the matter fell outside the courts original jurisdiction. Advertisement He highlighted that Article 130 of the 1992 Constitution limits the Supreme Court to addressing constitutional issues referred to it by lower courts, rather than initiating cases directly. The Supreme Court on Tuesday in a 5-2 majority decision upheld the suit filed Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who is the Member of Parliament for Effutu who also leads the New Patriotic Party (NPP) majority caucus in Parliament. The Supreme Court indicated that a sitting MP who files to contest future elections under a different party or as an independent does not automatically lose their parliamentary seat. Justice Atuguba said it was a procedural error for the Supreme Court to have bypassed the High Court to address the matter directly. Jurisdiction is a fundamental condition upon which a case stands. If it is absent, the court has no authority to proceed, he said. He cited Article 132, which mandates lower courts to refer constitutional interpretation issues to the Supreme Court while pausing their proceedings. When an issue arises in any court other than the Supreme Court, proceedings should be stayed, and the question referred to the Supreme Court. That was not done here, said. Justice Atuguba questioned the reasoning of the majority decision, calling it superficial. He pointed out that the Constitution provides clear guidance on how such cases should be managed, emphasising that the High Court is the proper starting point for matters related to parliamentary disputes. This question of jurisdiction ought to have been regarded as settled long ago if the court was minded to follow precedent, Justice Atuguba said. He referenced earlier cases, such as the 1997 J.H. Mensah case, which confirmed the High Court as the appropriate forum for deciding the validity of parliamentary elections. Justice Atuguba also criticised what he perceives as the politicisation of judicial processes. At the height of all this pretentious discussion going on, there is no true legality involvedits just politics, he said, warning that partisanship is undermining Ghanas constitutional framework. New Delhi, Nov 17 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday hailed the movie "The Sabarmati Report" based on the Godhara fire, saying "truth is coming out". Modi posted on his social media account X, "Well said. It is good that this truth is coming out, and that too in a way common people can see it. A fake narrative can persist only for a limited period of time. Eventually, the facts will always come out!". The film delves into the controversial 2002 Godhra train tragedy involving the Sabarmati Express, and its aftermath. The movie stars Vikrant Massey, Raashii Khanna and Riddhi Dogra. The film was released on Friday, November 15 The film is based on the true incident of the burning of a train in Godhra on 27 February 2002, which caused the deaths of 58 Hindu pilgrims and karsevaks returning from Ayodhya. UNI JA SSP Former President Kufuor commends Bawumias consistency and readiness to lead GraphicOnline Politics Nov - 16 - 2024 , 11:44 1 minute read Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has lauded Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for the consistency of his campaign message and his preparedness to lead Ghana. Dr. Bawumia, who is the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for the 2024 general elections, has been touring the country to engage stakeholders and present his vision. Speaking on Bawumias campaign efforts, President Kufuor praised his approach to governance issues and detailed communication with the public. "Many people are talking, but Bawumia has been very consistent," Kufuor said. "When I listen to him and analyse all he says, he sounds like the guy of the moment." Advertisement Dr. Bawumia has visited over 200 constituencies across Ghana, where he has outlined his policies on critical sectors such as education, mining, and technology. President Kufuor also highlighted Bawumias leadership qualities, describing him as a unifier with a global perspective and a deep appreciation of technology as a driver of development. "Bawumia has demonstrated readiness to lead, and his character traits, international exposure, and understanding of modern global trends like technology are exactly what the country needs now," President Kufuor added. The Department of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities, DISID, has issued a clarification regarding the availability of wheelchairs and rollators for individuals with mobility disabilities, following what it describes as recent social media posts that have disseminated incorrect information about eligibility requirements. DISID received donations of durable medical equipment from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It said it is committed to ensuring that individuals in need have access to these vital mobility aids. DISID, however, said it is essential to adhere to the accurate eligibility guidelines outlined below. To receive a wheelchair or rollator, individuals must meet the following criteria, according to DISID: Certification of disability: A medical providers certification of disability must be provided. Please note that a copy of an accessible placard is not an acceptable form of certification. Unit limit: Each individual will be issued only one unit, which can be either a wheelchair or a rollator. Prioritization DISID said the distribution of equipment will prioritize the following groups: Individuals without insurance who demonstrate the greatest financial need. Non-profit organizations that assist and support individuals with disabilities. Village mayors who seek to provide support for their constituents. Government agencies that support disability services. For further information regarding eligibility or the process for obtaining wheelchairs and rollators, contact DISID at (671) 475-4624. New Delhi, Nov 17 (UNI) Amid increasing incidents of violence in Manipur, Union Home Minister Amit Shah reviewed the security situation in the state in a high-level meeting with senior security officials here on Sunday. Sources associated with the security apparatus at the Centre said that the Home Minister left the election campaign programme in Maharashtra and reached the national capital during the day and reviewed the situation on Manipur in a meeting with senior security officials in North Block. Sources said that Shah will also hold talks with senior officials on Monday on measures to establish peace and restore normalcy in the state. It may be mentioned that after the latest incidents of violence in Manipur, curfew has been imposed in many districts and internet services have also been shut in some areas. Moreover, angry mob also vandalised the houses of some MLAs and ministers in the state. On Saturday, the Union Home Ministry had directed the security forces to take necessary steps to maintain law and order and take strict action against the miscreants in Manipur. UNI RBE GNK Haiti - Insecurity : More than 20,000 people displaced by violence in 4 days More than 20,000 people fleeing escalating gang violence have been displaced in Port-au-Prince in just four days, with more than 17,000 sheltering in 15 camps, the International Organization for Migration (IOM Haiti) reports. Noting that "Many of these individuals have faced multiple displacements, repeatedly forced to flee violence leaving behind what little they managed to rebuild. Such a scale of displacement has not been observed since August 2023." Criminal groups in the capital continue to expand, taking over new neighborhoods and further isolating communities. Formerly rival factions that fought over territorial disputes have united to combat the efforts of the police, which, struggling with a lack of resources, remains overwhelmed and faces significant challenges in containing the escalation of gang violence that has caused nearly 4,000 deaths in 2024, according to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights The shutdown of air traffic following the targeted shootings of three commercial airliners over Port-au-Prince https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-43614-haiti-flash-spirit-airlines-plane-hit-in-flight-by-several-bullets-video.html , restricted access to the countrys main seaport, and dangerous roads controlled by armed groups have left the metropolitan area in a state of near-total paralysis, compounding the suffering of already vulnerable populations, disrupting supply chains essential supply lines and isolating the city. "The isolation of Port-au-Prince is amplifying an already dire humanitarian situation," said Gregoire Goodstein IOMs Chief in Haiti. "Our ability to deliver aid is stretched to its limits. Without immediate international support, the suffering will worsen exponentially. With only 20 percent of Port-au-Prince accessible, humanitarian workers face immense challenges in reaching affected populations." The Organization calls on everyone to respect the neutrality and impartiality of humanitarian aid operations, allowing unhindered access to those in need and preserving the integrity of humanitarian assistance. Despite these challenges, IOM and its partners remain committed to providing life-saving assistance. The Organization actively assists internally displaced persons by providing them with rental subsidies and deploying mobile clinics to offer basic medical care, medicines and protection services such as psychosocial support, family reunification efforts and assistance to victims of gender-based violence. HL/ HaitiLibre Chinese President Xi Jinping began his week-long diplomatic visit to Latin America on Thursday with the virtual inauguration of Chancay Port in Peru. The $1.3 billion project, funded by China, is expected to become a major trade hub between South America and Asia. Xi described the port as a key maritime centre for trade between South America and Asia and stated that it would serve as the starting point of an Inca Trail of the New Era. Located about 80 kilometres north of Lima, Chancay Port is expected to reduce shipping times between South America and Asia from 40 days to 23, with an economic impact projected at $4.5 billion annually and the creation of 8,000 jobs. Xi highlighted the ports regional importance, saying, It will help build an Inca Trail of the New Era with Chancay Port as its starting point, thus boosting the overall development and integration of the region. The inauguration took place as Xi participated in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Lima, where he delivered remarks emphasising multilateralism and globalisation. We should see to it that economic globalisation generates more positive outcomes and is taken to a new phase that is more dynamic, inclusive, and sustainable, Xi said during his address. He also underscored the importance of collaboration, stating, The Asia-Pacific miracle was built on openness and cooperation. We must continue to uphold these principles. Chancay Port is part of Chinas broader efforts to strengthen economic ties with Latin America under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Xi noted the projects potential to enhance trade links, commenting, The Chancay-Shanghai route will promote deeper economic ties and create opportunities for mutual benefit. Peru has been a key partner for China in the region, with the two countries strengthening their free trade agreement earlier this year. Peru has also counted China as its largest trading partner for the past decade. Chinas economic footprint in Latin America has grown steadily, with bilateral trade reaching $485.7 billion in 2022, a 7.7 percent increase from the previous year. Xi highlighted the importance of this relationship, stating, China and Latin America enjoy strong economic complementarities. Their development strategies are mutually aligned, and they have natural advantages for strengthening cooperation. As part of his visit, Xi will also attend the Group of 20 (G20) summit in Rio de Janeiro, where he is expected to discuss global economic governance. His remarks at APEC emphasised the need for innovation, stating, Advances in science and technology should benefit all of humanity, and for inclusive development, noting, True development means common development of all countries. Cultural exchanges have also been a focus of China-Latin America relations. Xi has often underscored their importance, stating, People-to-people amity is vital to sound state-to-state relations. Initiatives like the China-Latin America Cultural Exchange Year and 180 sister-city partnerships have played a significant role in fostering these ties. Xis longstanding connection to the region dates back to 1996, when he visited Brazil as a provincial official, laying the foundation for partnerships that continue to grow. The port, which can handle up to 24,000 containers, is expected to serve as a distribution hub for South America and Asia, boosting trade in countries like Chile, Ecuador, and Colombia. Through joint efforts of both countries, Chancay Port will be a success, Xi said, adding that it represents a step forward in common development and shared prosperity. The visit comes amid heightened geopolitical scrutiny of Chinas growing influence in Latin America. However, Xi has positioned Chinas investments as opportunities for mutual growth. China and Latin America are good friends and partners, marching forward hand in hand, he said. The Chancay Port project and Xis participation in APEC and the G20 highlight Chinas continued engagement with Latin America as a key region for economic and cultural collaboration. While Chinas relations and collaboration with the Global South is improving, EU has adopted a policy of foreign relations and trade subservient to the United States, focused on confrontation, and trade war, instead of collaboration with China. In late October 2024, Finnish President Alexander Stubb conducted a state visit to China, marking the 74th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. During his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, discussions centred on enhancing bilateral trade, green energy cooperation, and sustainable development. Stubb emphasised Finland's commitment to the one-China policy and expressed a desire to deepen practical cooperation in various sectors. This visit underscores the European Union's multifaceted approach to China, balancing economic collaboration with strategic considerations. HT Sanaa, Nov 17 (UNI) Yemen's Houthi group said they launched a bomb-laden drone attack on Israel's southern port city of Eilat on Saturday, hitting a "vital target." "In support of the Palestinian and Lebanese resistance forces (Hamas and Hezbollah), we carried out a military operation targeting a vital target ... with a number of drones," Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea said in a televised statement. "The operation hit the target successfully," he said in the statement, aired by Houthi-run al-Masirah TV. The spokesperson vowed to launch more attacks against Israeli cities and Israel-linked ships in the Red Sea until "Israeli aggression on Gaza and southern Lebanon" stops. Israel has not confirmed the alleged attack on its port city. Since November 2023, the Houthi group has been conducting rocket and drone attacks on Israel and "Israeli-linked" shipping in the Red Sea, allegedly to show solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. UNI/XINHUA ARN Interview: Zimbabwe seeks to expand exports to China amid growing trade ties Xinhua) 00:46, November 17, 2024 HARARE, Nov. 16 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwe is aiming to diversify its export portfolio to China as trade volumes between the two nations continue to grow, a senior official has said. "Currently, our horticulture exports primarily target markets in the European Union and Britain. We are now looking to diversify, particularly focusing on exporting fruits and vegetables to the Middle East and Asian markets, including China, Malaysia and Indonesia," said Similo Nkala, director of operations at ZimTrade, Zimbabwe's trade promotion agency, on Friday. A significant milestone in Zimbabwe-China trade relations was achieved in 2022 when the two countries signed a citrus deal, allowing Zimbabwean companies to export fresh citrus to China. "We have also recently signed a trade protocol for avocado exports, which is a major step toward diversifying our export markets," Nkala told Xinhua. "Discussions are ongoing for additional trade protocols, including those for blueberries, sesame and chilies." Bilateral trade between Zimbabwe and China has surged in recent years, reflecting the strengthening ties between the two countries. According to the Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe, trade grew by 25.6 percent in the first nine months of 2024, reaching 3 billion U.S. dollars. Zimbabwe exported 2.1 billion dollars worth of goods to China while importing 951 million dollars, resulting in a trade surplus of about 1 billion dollars. Zimbabwe enjoys a competitive edge in agriculture due to its fertile land, favorable climate and soil conditions, Nkala said. "There is significant potential to increase our horticulture exports, particularly fruits and vegetables, to the Chinese market." He added that Zimbabwean exporters could improve their competitiveness in the vast Chinese market by consolidating consignments to meet demand efficiently. Zimbabwean leather producers have also gained traction in China. During the 2024 China International Import Expo (CIIE), local companies secured many orders, particularly for high-demand leather products. The business exhibition of the world's first national-level exposition dedicated to imports has attracted about 3,500 exhibitors from 129 countries and regions this year. Notably, a record high of 297 Fortune 500 companies and industry leaders are attending the six-day expo that concluded on Nov. 10 in Shanghai. And more than 400 new products, new technologies and new services are unveiled. "I have seen firsthand during trade fairs in China that our leather products, are in high demand," Nkala said. Arts and crafts are another promising sector for Zimbabwean exporters. Nkala said that artists participating in the CIIE generated over 500,000 dollars in business. "The potential is there, especially in arts and crafts, and it remains largely untapped," he added. (Web editor: Cai Hairuo, Liu Ning) Tasmanian tour guide Kane Bowman was transferring a boat early on Friday morning when he took a moment to investigate a group of noisy birds. Tasmanian skipper Kane Bowman was doing a boat transfer on Friday morning when he had a remarkably close encounter with feeding whales. Source: Kane Bowman An Aussie tour guides early-morning boat run took a stunning turn on Friday morning after he came face-to-face with migrating whales enjoying a feast. Tasman Island Cruises skipper Kane Bowman told Yahoo News Australia he was simply in the right place at the right time when he encountered the beautiful creatures just as the sun rose. While doing a boat transfer up the coast of the Tasman Peninsula, I noticed many seabirds congregating on mass so I went to investigate and came across a large bait ball, he said. Many seals and dolphins were feeding upon the bait fish when a couple of migrating humpbacks came to investigate. Mr Bowman said the whales at first worked around the outside of the bait ball with the seals and dolphins. Then they began lunge feeding up through the middle of the schooled up fish just metres away from his vessel. Mr Bowman said the migrating humpback whales began lunge feeding right in front of him. Source: Kane Bowman Aussies amazed by humpback whale encounter The stunned skipper was able to snap a couple of brilliant photos of the moment showing a humpback emerging from the water with a mouthful of food. Pennicott Wilderness Journeys, which operates Tasman Island Cruises, later posted the images online, leaving travellers across the country in awe. ADVERTISEMENT This is an incredible shot! one person commented. Wow, what an experience to see that, another exclaimed. We did this cruise last Sunday, absolutely amazing. We [saw] six whales in the first hour. Absolutely breathtaking, someone else said. Skipper says whale season has been 'incredible' As many know, the countrys east and west coasts come alive each year as whales migrate north between May and July to have their young in warmer waters. In September they turn around and head back south, with ocean currents bringing them quite close to Tasmania much to the delight of tourists. ADVERTISEMENT Mr Bowman told Yahoo this whale watching season has been quite incredible, with the migrating humpbacks being sighted daily on our eco tours for the last six weeks. Gotta love Tasmania! Its understood the whale population is increasing due to conservation efforts over the years, leading to more sightings and therefore lengthier whale watching seasons. However, Yahoo News reported in August that some of the animals had been observed behaving strangely off NSWs north coast. Divers said they saw whales in poor health with deep white lines on their backs and emaciated frames. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. Bryce Connole and Chelsea Wood had to dig our their 4WD and caravan from the sand at the campsite. Bryce and Chelsea had to dig themselves out of the soft sand at the popular campsite. Source: Instagram/Caravan Adventure Aus Despite caravanning around Australia full-time for the last five years, couple Bryce Connole and Chelsea Wood still found themselves "bogged" in the sand at a popular campsite and have since warned other campers to try to avoid the same fate or at the very least, how to get out of a similar situation. Last month, the couple and their dog Juice were travelling down from Exmouth on the Ningaloo Coast to Winderabandi Campground in Western Australia. As soon as they got there, the camp host warned them to be careful as their "site has very soft sand". "We got out of the car and assessed the site knowing it would take some planning and manoeuvring with the caravan in tow in the soft sand," the pair told Yahoo News. "Our best plan was to just send it quickly and hope for the best... we still managed to bog down fairly deep." Their 4WD and caravan got 'bogged' at Winderabandi Campground. Source: Facebook/Caravan Adventure Aus Campers had to dig 'stuck' 4WD and caravan out of sand Despite being warned and having experience with tricky campground terrain, the couple still got "stuck" in the soft sand and had no choice but to dig themselves out. "We had already lowered our tyre pressures on both the car and caravan so we thought we would be fine," they said. ADVERTISEMENT The pair used a shovel and MAXTRAX recovery tracks, which helped provide traction to wheels and were ultimately able to extricate their vehicle after about 15 minutes. And they were far from the only ones to struggle. Over the two weeks they spent at the campsite, Bryce helped five people to dig themselves out of the same predicament. "Some sites are notoriously worse than others, like the one we were on... it is very common for people to get bogged at this popular beach camp on the Ningaloo Reef," they said. Hacks to avoid getting stuck in soft sand Generally speaking, heavy caravans (or any vehicle) and soft sand don't mix well and should be avoided. However, in cases like this, there are a few simple hacks to help campers along their way. ADVERTISEMENT Lowering tyre pressures and carrying recovery boards and equipment are a necessity, Bryce and Chelsea said. "Walk your site first and make a game plan, don't be afraid to ask for help from other campers if you need it," the couple said. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. Donald Trump has promised to settle the Ukraine war within 24 hours and so many expect a difficult peace, a dirty deal according to Max Hastings, early next year. Russian forces are now on a roll, pushing along nearly 800 miles of front in Ukraine itself, and squeezing Ukraine forces in the pocket of Russian territory round Kursk they took last summer. Any deal for ceasefire and armistice wouldnt be Trumps but Putins. Right now, Putins team have said they are no mood for talks to end the war. In the past two days, Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Moscow foreign ministry and Putin superfan, has said talks could only begin if western powers agreed to stop supplying Ukraine with weapons completely. Putin wants to declare outright victory in his hugely costly war, cancelling Ukraine as a viable independent state. Russia wants all the territory seized so far, guaranteed neutrality for Ukraine, the likely departure of Volodymyr Zelensky from public life, and a buffer zone between Ukraine and the rest of Europe. So have the Trump peace supporters overplayed their hand promising what cant be delivered? With Putin intent on continuing the war, however, there is a growing sense that he may have overplayed his hand. Russia seems to be heading for trouble in 2025 that will affect us all, major European powers such as Britain, France and Germany, especially. ADVERTISEMENT The pointer to Russias looming crisis is summed up in two words: North Korea. Putins main war aim in the short term is to get Ukrainian forces out of Kursk by the end of the year. He has assembled an army of 50,000 to do it, and the Russians are gaining ground at horrendous cost. They need the reinforcement of a contingent of 10,000 North Korean soldiers to bolster their attack force. The North Korean dictator seems to gain more than Putin from the deal Losses are mounting. October was the worst month of the war for serious casualties, with over 40,000 killed and injured. Total Russian casualties are now put at 710,000 since February 2022, according to published intelligence. Ukraine losses are heavy, but kept secret and successfully so. Dependence on North Korea extends beyond personnel and reinforcements. Half of all medium and heavy artillery shells now fired by Russian guns come from North Korea. Russia is currently losing about 100 tanks and a total of 320 tank and artillery barrels a month, and can only manufacture 20 replacement barrels in the same period. So, Russia will be running out of major weapons systems for the ground war by next August unless it can persuade China to open its deep military arsenals. And that is a very big if. ADVERTISEMENT I dont think the media has made nearly enough of the appearance of North Koreans fighting alongside the Russians, which makes them co-combatants, a senior official with direct Ukraine experience remarked to me this week. He conjectured that the supply of 10,000 North Koreans to Kursk may be just the beginning of a very big development, with the possibility of 100,000 North Koreans being deployed to Russia in the coming months. This Monday, Kim Jong Un ratified and published the Treaty of Comprehensive Partnership between North Korea and Russia, which was agreed at the meeting between the two leaders in Pyongyang last June. Article 4 says that if one of the partners enters a state of war and invasion the other shall provide military and other assistance with all means in its possessions. This might mean the use of nuclear weapons. The North Korean dictator seems to gain more than Putin from the deal. He breaks out of isolation. Putin needs tens of thousands of North Koreans to manage his parlous security position at home, and the continuing war in Ukraine. More then 500,000 security troops are deployed for internal security and because of the huge demands of the war economy, no more recruits are available. For Putin and for China there is another nightmare scenario for North Koreas break-out from isolation. It is being put forward by credible intelligence sources. This is the possible movement of thousands of ill-nourished North Koreans across the narrow border on the Tumen River, the tripoint where the territories of China, Russia and North Korea meet. Already thousands of Chinese cross regularly from China into Russias remote and underpopulated Asia east. A concerted push by desperate North Koreans cannot be ruled out. There is a growing view that Putin cannot afford peace now and rather like Napoleon Bonaparte his military machine, totalitarian regime, and economy rely on continuing war, and conquest. Conquest and occupation of more of Ukraine would mean the need of an occupying army. In war and peace, Vladimir could become hostage to his North Korean adventure. This means trouble all round for all of us in the European neighbourhood. Robert Fox is the Standards Defence Editor Global Travel and Tourism Deal Activity Down by 10.4% Yoy During January-October 2024 A total of 583 deals (mergers and acquisitions (M&A), private equity, and venture financing) were announced in the Travel and Tourism sector from January to October 2024. This marked a year-over-year (YoY) decline of 10.4% compared to the 651 deals announced during the same period in 2023, according to GlobalData. Aurojyoti Bose, Lead Analyst at GlobalData, comments: Geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties significantly impacted the deal-making in the travel and tourism sector. However, some of the leading economies in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region saw improvement in the volume of deals. Europe led in the number of deal announcements during January-October 2024 while also showing a YoY improvement of 7.5% in deal activity. In contrast, North America, Asia-Pacific, South and Central America, and the Middle East and Africa regions saw YoY decline in deal volume by 33%, 6.4%, 20%, and 17.2%, respectively, during January-October 2024. The US, China, South Korea, and France saw deal volume decline by 32.2%, 30.2%, 4.8%, and 34.8%, respectively, during January-October 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. In contrast, the UK, India, Japan and Spain experienced YoY improvement in deal volume by 2.7%, 18.6%, 28.6% and 69.2%, respectively, during January-October 2024. An analysis of GlobalDatas Deals Database revealed that the trend also remained mixed across different deal types. The deal volume for M&A and venture financing deals fell by 4.9% and 29.4%, respectively, during January-October 2024 compared to January-October 2023. Meanwhile, the private equity deal volume saw a slight improvement during the review period. Note: Historic data may change in case some deals get added to previous months because of a delay in disclosure of information in the public domain. Governor Thanks Firefighters, Asks Public to Contain Fire Risk MIDDLETON, Mass. Governor Maura Healey visited the Middleton Fire Department to thank firefighters and first responders who have been working to contain brush fires in the area and across the state over the past few weeks. More than 450 fires have burned over 1,500 acres since Oct. 1 in Massachusetts, including two ongoing fires in Middleton, and air quality continues to be affected in many communities. Multiple fires remain active and have proved difficult to contain due to extremely low rainfall in the region over the last two months. The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) has declared drought conditions affecting nearly the entire state. The National Weather Service under guidance from the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has issued a red flag warning for all of Massachusetts due to this critical fire weather pattern. Groundwater levels in many regions are declining, which means that the lakes and ponds that firefighters use to fight many of these fires are providing less water to work with, underscoring the need to conserve. "Massachusetts is experiencing a historic drought, which is resulting in brush fires across the state. I'm grateful to the firefighters and first responders who have been working hard, day in and day out, to keep their communities safe. We appreciate the immense effort and sacrifice they are putting in, and the risks they are facing," said Governor Healey. "Drought conditions and wildfire risks are ongoing. There are steps everyone can take to minimize risk, protect their communities, conserve water and support our firefighters. Residents, businesses and facilities should minimize their water use as much as possible, and there should be no outdoor fires at this time. Our firefighters are working hard and making considerable sacrifices to battle these fires on our behalf. Let's do all we can to avoid making their jobs any harder." The Healey-Driscoll Administration has been providing emergency services, coordination assistance, and resources through the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), Department of Fire Services (DFS), the State Police, the National Guard, Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), Department of Public Health (DPH), and the Department of Transportation (MassDOT). The Department of Fire Services is supporting local fire departments with rehab units for firefighter health and safety; Incident Support Units that offer communications, conferencing, and mapping capabilities in the field; drones and pilots to provide incident commanders with traditional and thermal imagery from the air and assist in resource deployment; and off-road vehicles to move personnel in remote areas. DFS has also provided local fire chiefs with Fire Code citations to support local outdoor fire bans and associated public education messaging. The Statewide Fire Mobilization Plan is coordinating delivery of firefighters and apparatus from across the state so that local departments and mutual aid aren't overwhelmed by large-scale, long-term incidents. MEMA is working daily with DFS, DCR, MA National Guard, and the Executive Office of Public Safety on state agency coordination, to ensure support of communities battling wildfires, including water drop missions. MEMA's dispatchers have processed 16 mobilization requests of the State Fire and EMS Mobilization Plan, to augment mutual aid in impacted areas when requested. MEMA's Mobile Emergency Operations Center has been deployed as the unified command post in Middleton since Oct. 28 and the agency's Local Coordinators have provided on-scene support in multiple communities and continue to assist with logistics and other coordination needs as they arise in cities and towns across the state. DCR's Bureau of Forest Fire Control is assisting local fire departments across the state with response, tactical, strategic planning managing and monitoring of all active wildfires. DCR wildland firefighters and fire control staff are providing fire detection support and mapping from DCR Fire Towers and supporting on the ground firefighting. DCR is also collaborating with neighboring state fire managers and Region 9 U.S. Forest Service staff on fire advisory, available resources and situational awareness. DCR has requested assistance in fighting the state's ongoing wildfires through the Northeast Compact, and as a result, firefighters from New Hampshire and Maine have responded to provide assistance. DCR has also issued a temporary ban of all open flame and charcoal fires within state park properties. About 45 percent of Massachusetts homes are in or near areas at severe wildfire risk, meaning that any significant fire will put people and property in danger. Because any outdoor fire will spread quickly and become very difficult to control, local and state officials are asking residents to follow these fire prevention tips: Four Berkshire Organizations Awarded DEIB Grants SPRINGFIELD, Mass. Health New England has awarded $80,000 in grants to non-profit organizations that work to advance youth health and well-being in Western Massachusetts. The company's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Grants went to 38 organizations in Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire, and Worcester counties. In Berkshire County these organizations were awarded funding: Barrington Stage Company (Pittsfield), Playwright Mentoring Program Berkshire Bounty (Great Barrington), Food Purchase Program Berkshire Pride (Pittsfield), Empowerment and Well-being: After-School Program for LGBTQ+ Teens & Tweens Roots Rising (Pittsfield), Roots Rising's Youth Crews Health New England's DEIB mission is to improve the health and lives of people as it applies to individuals of all races, genders, sexual orientations, religions, and levels of ability. Health New England's DEIB Grants are designed to fund local non-profit organizations that focus on health equity and engage around at least one social determinant of health (SDOH). SDOHs are conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age that affect health, quality of life, and life expectancy. These conditions may include socioeconomic status, food insecurity, education, access to health care, safe housing, discrimination, violence, and trauma, etc. Health New England focused this year's DEIB grants on youth health and well-being after a Springfield Public Schools Youth Health Survey revealed that more than four in ten surveyed eighth-grade students felt so sad or hopeless for two weeks or more that they stopped participating in some usual activities. The grant winners' programs and projects must also assist youths and adolescents gain what the World Health Organization's Adolescent Well-being Framework states they need to thrive: Ramaswamy denied any affiliation with the World Economic Forum and said he filed a lawsuit when the group used his name in a Young Global Leaders list, forcing the group to remove his name. A World Economic Forum spokesperson told The Associated Press in 2023 that Musk hadnt been invited to attend since 2015, and that he had not attended when invited in the past. X owner Elon Musk has been a vocal critic of the World Economic Forum on X. He said he declined an invite to the groups 2023 meeting in Davos, Switzerland. President-elect Donald Trump tasked X owner Elon Musk and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy with leading a new Department of Government Efficiency to slash spending and regulations. A social media post criticized Trumps choice, claiming both men are part of the World Economic Forum, a nongovernmental, international nonprofit organization that hosts annual meetings of political, business and other leaders in Davos, Switzerland. "We're talking about the same Elon Musk that is a part of the World Economic Forum," a man in a Nov. 12 Instagram video said. He later added, "Also, Vivek Ramaswamy is a part of the World Economic Forum." The post was flagged as part of Metas efforts to combat false news and misinformation on its News Feed. (Read more about our partnership with Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram.) The Instagram post is wrong about Musk and Ramaswamy and their connection to the World Economic Forum, which has been the subject of numerous conspiracy theories, including that it wants to control the world. Both Musk and Ramaswamy have been critical of the World Economic Forum, and Ramaswamy sued the group in 2023 for using his name. As world leaders were meeting in Davos in January, Musk shared a Jan. 18 X post in which Grok, Xs generative artificial intelligence tool, "roasts" World Economic Forum founder Klaus Schwab. Musk has long criticized the World Economic Forum. In January 2023, he called it an "unelected world government that the people never asked for and dont want." Before the 2023 Davos meeting, Musk said Dec. 30 on X that he declined an invitation to attend because it sounded "boring." World Economic Forum spokesperson Yann Zopf told The Associated Press that Musk wasnt invited that year and hadnt been invited since 2015. Zopf told the news outlet that Musk had not attended the event after previous invites. Ramaswamy, a former 2024 Republican presidential candidate, is also a longtime critic of the World Economic Forum. Ramaswamy is a wealthy biotech entrepreneur, venture capitalist and author who became an avid supporter of Trump on the campaign trail after dropping out of the race in January. FEATURED FACT-CHECK Social Media stated on October 28, 2024 in in social media posts "Nicki Minaj just endorsed Donald Trump for President. By Jeff Cercone October 29, 2024 Ramaswamy said the organization named him one of its Young Global Leaders in 2021 and that he filed a lawsuit to force it to remove his name. Each year, the World Economic Forum selects 100 leaders under 40 who they think can help better the world. In an Aug. 1, 2023, X post in which he described himself as a "leading opponent in America of the World Economic Forum's agenda," Ramaswamy said he "explicitly rejected their ridiculous award" and filed a lawsuit after they failed to remove his name. In a reply to his X post, Ramaswamy shared what he said was a letter from World Economic Forum lawyers apologizing for using his name. PolitiFact contacted the World Economic Forum for comment, but didnt immediately receive a response. A spokesperson for the group told the New York Post in April 2023 that Ramaswamy was invited as a potential member of the Young Global Leaders community, but that he declined to be nominated. Ramaswamy in his 2024 presidential campaign countered claims that he was affiliated with the World Economic Forum. His campaign website addressed the allegation, writing that "Vivek is Klaus Schwabs worst nightmare." In a July 2023 interview with conservative influencer Jack Posobiec, Ramaswamy said, "World Economic Forum. What is my relationship with them? Answer none. Absolutely none, other than being probably their top critic in the United States." An Instagram posts claim that Musk and Ramaswamy are part of the World Economic Forum is not backed by evidence. Both men are vocal critics of the organization. The claim is False. Sunday 17 November 2024, 17:35 A trail of controversy and embarrassment is left in the wake of the "fuck you" from First Lady Janja da Silva against Elon Musk, the rising star of the new Trump administration, on the eve of the G20 leaders' summit in Rio de Janeiro. During a panel on disinformation at a G20 Social event, Lula's wife was discussing the difficulty of regulating social media platforms when a technical audio issue interrupted her speech. Janja quipped, "I think it's Elon Musk," and immediately added, "I'm not afraid of you. Fuck you, Elon Musk." Saud, the world's richest family, worth four times Elon Musk and Bill Gates combined. Diplomats' Irritation The First Lady's outburst irritated high-level diplomats from Brazil's Foreign Ministry, concerned that the insult could jeopardize Brasilia's attempt to maintain a pragmatic relationship with the Republican U.S. government. The owner of Tesla quickly responded on X: "You will lose the next elections," accompanying the statement with laughing emojis and sharing the video of the First Lady's speech. Meanwhile, Brazil's former right-wing president, Jair Bolsonaro, an ally of Trump and Musk, immediately raised his head: "We have one more diplomatic problem," he stated on his social profile, sparking a series of posts from his party's parliamentarians - the Pl - against the G20 hosts. Fuck you, Elon Musk," says Brazil's first lady, Janja da Silva, during the G20 Social panel. pic.twitter.com/z99XqiHwnj Visegrad 24 (@visegrad24) November 16, 2024 Trump, government ready: from Gaetz to Hegseth to Kennedy Jr, all the figures arriving at the White House. Visible Tensions with Musk It is no secret that there is a history of tensions between the green-and-gold government and the owner of Tesla, which erupted in recent months with the blackout of X in the South American country after a weeks-long legal battle centered around Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, considered by Bolsonaro supporters as the greatest enemy of the Brazilian right-wing leader. Meanwhile, even the family photo of the APEC summit in Lima has generated controversy, interpreted as a tangible demonstration of Joe Biden's irrelevance at international summits. While Chinese President Xi Jinping secured the central position in the image, the outgoing U.S. president is relegated to the second row. The photo has captured the New York Post's homepage, which speaks of a Biden "humiliated in a corner while Xi gets the place of honor." My closest friend, the Swedish writer Johanna Ekstrom, was diagnosed with melanoma of the eye in September 2021. By the following spring, the cancer had metastasised to the liver, and her oncologist estimated that she had only two or three months to live. She got a second opinion from a consultant in London, on Zoom. He confirmed the Swedish prognosis, advised her to eat what she liked and added that she might feel sad, or angry, or think, why me? Johanna, as I knew she would, found that irresistibly funny. Well, she said ironically, laughing at the screen. Why not me? Johanna and I met in 1990. Her parents and mine knew each other a little, and her mother organised a birthday dinner for my mother in Stockholm (they were the same age). Johanna, ever competent and energetic, cooked for 20 or so people, with her then-boyfriend. I had brought my old friend Mark, and we all instantly recognised some quality of irony and longing in each other, a faintly under-parented sense of rebellion and hunger. Something in that first meeting the irony, the camp, the gleefulness stayed with us forever. When I think of her now, I realise that its hard to describe a close friend because what one sees and thinks about is the feeling, the mood, the enduring microculture you generate together. Johanna was my closest friend, but she was also like a younger sister. Some sort of unspoken authority was vested in me, some sort of wild freedom in her. As a writer, she was experimental and precise in equal measure. She played with words and syntax, but was rigorously attentive to her sentences. Perhaps the quest for the right word or phrase in a conversation or in a piece of text was a slight obsession, cloaked in irony and humour. An exercise of diminishing returns if one had an end in mind, but she or we never did. The quest itself was the thing, the process of continuous exploration. No right answers, only questions and observations that might suddenly turn into another register equally authentic of camp humour, performative femininity. However serious our conversations, in the end wed laugh until we cried, or cry until we laughed. After the terminal prognosis, I went to Stockholm to help. Time slowed down. Within a few days, Johanna was more or less confined to bed and ate only the tiniest portions of foods she craved or could bear to think about. A spoonful of semolina porridge with cinnamon, sugar, and a slice of strawberry or banana. A Japanese rice cracker with a sliver of avocado. A wafer. I made notes during the hospice team visits, making sure I got the spelling and exact doses of the palliative medicines right. Johanna, already on morphine, cared not at all, fishing vaguely in the cotton shoe bag where she kept all her medicine. She was right, of course none of it really mattered very much at this stage. The week before she died Johanna showed me her last book, consisting of 13 handwritten notebooks, and asked me to edit and finish the text. I did, taking extracts from the notebooks and weaving in some of my own reflections. The book was published in Sweden in 2023, and within months I started my translation of it. The title (chosen by Johanna) And the Walls became the World all Around, is a quote from Maurice Sendaks Where the Wild Things Are, showing how a room can become a whole world, or in Johannas case, the stage for the drama of her life and its end. The book is a memoir of loss, which began as an ordinary writers notebook and then crystallised into something more exacting. Johanna originally conceived of it, I think, as an exploration of abandonment. She had experienced an intense relationship a meeting of minds as well as of body which disintegrated as her partner, N, retreated into a deep and silent depression. The first part is a writers notebook, with quotes, cuttings, reflections on style and subject, dreams, memories and meditations on the pandemic. Some passages are marked diary, others notes. Johannas voice feels young and experimental there are exclamation marks and capital letters, smileys and hearts. Shes happy, deeply in love with N, a translator and writer. A new relationship. Soon, however, the euphoric tone turns. N fell into a depression, and Johanna describes her sadness and frustration. One senses the isolation of the pandemic in the background, but she has also found her subject: the notebooks now develop into a series of text fragments on the concept of loss, returning to deep feelings of bleak vulnerability, desolation and longing, intertwined with thoughts on literature and creativity. The book is largely set during the era of the pandemic, and there is an unmistakable mood of the pandemic in the text the close attention to minute details, the long meditations on the view from the window, the empty streets and the attention to soundscapes. A tree, imbued with a kind of life. Birds, observed like minor characters in a play. Dreams. About halfway through the books after many notes about exhaustion and curious visual disturbances she received her diagnosis, and from that point on the book turns into reflections on another kind of loss that of facing what turned out to be a terminal illness. If Johanna didnt think of the notebooks as a book from the very beginning, she soon did. From these handwritten fragments, the text would later be shaped. We dont know what that book would have looked like, but it would likely have been quite different. Her cancer diagnosis, for instance, slips in almost imperceptibly about halfway through the notebooks. Her symptoms a profound exhaustion and changes to her vision had by that time been part of her life (and of the notebooks) for so long that the diagnosis feels almost like a confirmation. Its raining gold in my eye, she wrote weeks before she finally saw the optician. All that gold, the stuff glittering in the corner of my eye. What does the fact that I saw it as beautiful rather than as a sign that theres something wrong with my vision say about me? I helped to look after Johanna as she was dying. The days passed. She slept and I sat by the window. Sounds drifted up voices, steps, the bark of a dog. Her voice turned weak and hoarse and at times she knelt on the bed, eyes closed, leaning forwards on cushions and pillows to alleviate the pain of the tumours, hard masses under the stretched skin of her abdomen. She sipped water and sucked on ice or frozen Coca-Cola, a cold cloth on her forehead. She had a morphine pump attached to one arm and a port on the other where we could inject top-up morphine, liquid against nausea and tranquillisers. The syringes three of each medicine, plus salty water to flush the line were neatly lined up on a tray. I cried again and again and was comforted by the very person whose imminent disappearance I was grieving. She held my arm and smiled; she leant back and closed her eyes, we sat in grief, in communion. I read the newspapers as she slept and meaning escaped me. Sentences made no sense, I read them over and over. Johanna slept; so pale. She was increasingly absent. But every once in a while, she would come back an ironic lifting of the eyebrow, some comment, something complicit between us. open image in gallery ( Granta Books ) Death, when it came, felt both abstract and concrete. The abstract quality (consciousness, a soul) disappears, the concrete body remains. Johannas body at the hospice was like an intricately detailed machine or a work of art. The enormous complexity of the body, all systems off. A great silence. Thoughts, images, sounds, heat, movement, electricity all gone. Johannas short, clean hair bounced under my hand. Her eyes were closed; she smiled her faintly ironic smile. The book is unfinished, and wilder and bleaker than anything she had published before. The playwright Simon Woods has spoken of the strange, harrowing beauty of her writing, and that extraordinary combination of truthfulness and poetry and sensuousness and brutal intelligence that made Ekstrom so successful in her own language. The writer Neel Mukherjee said the book is absolutely its own thing, a haunting of the dead by the living. I like the idea that we the living are the ghosts haunting the dead, entangling ourselves in their lives, until we have to let them go to do their own thing. At times, working on this book, I have imagined, or thought I heard, or conjured up a memory of Johannas voice, and sensed a dialogue between us. Then the voice would fade, leaving me with 13 handwritten notebooks filled with dreams and fragments of text. The notebooks are archived in the Stockholm Royal Library now. Our thousands of messages back and forth presumably still exist somewhere in the ether, digital archaeological signs, a footprint in the world. And Johanna is in me: a sensation somewhere between my heart and my throat, a mood, a word, a phrase, a hum. A contour of my inner life. And the Walls Became the World All Around by Johanna Ekstrom and Sigrid Rausing, published by Granta is out now Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Strictly Come Dancings Blackpool special always has a standout star and the remaining eight couples certainly gave it their all as they vied for the title on Saturday night. Chris McCausland set the bar high by opening the show with a stunning American Smooth while Tasha Ghouri brought the drama with an almost-perfect Paso Doble and Jamie Borthwick got into the Blackpool spirit by descending from the ceiling on a giant, glittering bottle of ketchup. But the night belonged to another of the Strictly stars: Sarah Hadland. The Miranda ator has delivered numerous show-stopping performances so far this series, topping the leaderboard with the first Argentine Tango of Strictly 2024 in the Halloween special and transforming into Madonna for Icons Week. Couples Choice dances are often emotional, barefoot numbers but with her Fosse-inspired routine to Kylie Minogues hit Padam Padam, Hadland served up a powerful celebration of womanhood. She pulled off ambitious choreography, complete with lifts and table dancing alongside not just her partner Vito Coppola, but a troupe of backup dancers and made made light work of matching the professionals move for move. The jaw-dropping performance (labelled too perfect by Craig Revel Horwood, as he scored it a nine) also sent an empowering and inspiring message to viewers, and women everywhere. In her VT, Hadland became emotional as she explained how Strictly has changed her life. I would say to any woman out there if you think you cant do something you can always push yourself, she said. You set your own limits. Sarah Hadland breaks down in tears as she explains meaning behind Couples Choice As she began to cry, the actress continued: These are happy tears. I didnt expect to get this from a dancing competition. It came at just the right time in my life when I didnt know this is what I needed. After Hadland and Coppolas dance, Shirley Ballas perfectly summed up what the performance meant as she told the actress: You represent all women in what you can achieve if you believe. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free What else could Hadland achieve, I wonder? On Strictly, she should be a sure bet for the final. JB Gill and Tasha Ghouri have consistently topped the leaderboard (and the Miranda star is this week sharing first place with the former Love Islander) and Chris McCauslands achievements are phenomenal. But Hadlands spirit, confidence and all-important Strictly journey make her worthy of a spot in the final three. And when the glitter settles and the sequins go back into the BBC vaults, I cant wait to see what Hadland does next. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy It appears that The Bears Jeremy Allen White may actually have a doppleganger living in Chicago, Illinois. On Saturday (November 16), crowds gathered in the citys Humboldt Park to watch nearly a dozen people dressed in white T-shirts and blue aprons compete in a Jeremy Allen White lookalike contest. Posters spotted around the city earlier this week advertised a $50 cash prize plus some cigarettes for the winner. Meanwhile, videos posted to X/Twitter showed the winner wearing a crown and raising his hands, as he held a trophy and a pack of cigarettes in one hand and a ribbon in the other. Several people have since praised the winner for actually resembling the 33-year-old actor. Winner of Chicagos Jeremy Allen White look-alike contest ( Rachel Hale on X/Twitter ) Chicagos got a Jeremy Allen White doppelganger! Nailed the resemblance, one person posted, with a second declaring: Chicago got it RIGHT. A third user agreed: He is actually looking like him. Are we sure thats not actually him? a fourth person questioned. However, some people werent so sure that he resembled White, with one writing: He sorta looks like him. More than the winners of some of the others at least lol. The Chicago event comes after a Timothee Chalamet lookalike contest held in New York City last month went viral, sparking a wave of similar events across the U.S. and beyond. At the Washington Square Park event in Manhattan, more than 2,000 attendees watched approximately 30 people dressed in their best Chalamet attire compete for a $50 cash prize. The real Dune star even surprised the crowd when he unexpectedly showed up and took photos with contestants. Miles Mitchell, who was dressed like Chalamets titular chocolatier from the 2023 movie musical Wonka, was ultimately crowned the winner. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free While the event was a major success, the organizer, YouTuber Anthony Po, was hit with a $500 fine from the authorities because he didnt have the proper permit to host such a large event in the park. A police spokesperson also told NBC New York that at least one person was detained and issued summonses. Still, this hasnt stopped the trend from taking over. Earlier this month, a Paul Mescal lookalike contest was held in Dublin, Ireland, while just last week, hundreds of people attended a Harry Styles lookalike contest in central London. The Timothee Chalamet and the Paul Mescal lookalike contests were obviously a hit, and people looked like they had a lot of fun, Katrina Mirpuri, a 29-year-old journalist who organized the London event, told the PA news agency. So I thought London should have some fun. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Paul Mescal has addressed Saoirse Ronans viral remark on The Graham Norton Show, in which she silenced her fellow guests with a brutally honest reminder about womens safety. The Gladiator II star, 28, recently appeared on Irish broadcaster RTEs The Late Late Show, where he was asked if he was surprised by the viral response to Ronans comments. Im not surprised that the message received as much attention that it got, because its massively important, Mescal replied. Im sure youve had Saoirse on the show. Shes quite often, more often than not, the most intelligent person in the room, he continued. I think she was spot-on, hit the nail on the head, and its also good that messages like that are kind of gaining traction. Like, thats a conversation that we should absolutely be having on a daily basis, the Normal People actor said. Back in October, Mescal and Ronan along with actors Eddie Redmayne and Denzel Washington appeared on the BBC chat show, where Redmayne discussed learning self-defence for his new series, The Day of the Jackal. open image in gallery Paul Mescal and Saoirse Ronan on The Graham Norton Show on 25 October ( PA Wire ) When the Les Miserables star recalled being taught how to use his cell phone as a weapon to jab an attacker in the neck, Mescal then joked that he would not think of pulling out his phone during an attack. Who is actually going to think about that? If someone actually attacked me, Im not going to go phone, said the actor, gesturing as if to take a phone out of his pocket. Thats what girls have to think about all the time, Ronan then chimed in, as both Redmayne and Mescal fell silent. After a brief pause, Ronan was met with a round of applause from the audience when she added: Am I right ladies? Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free The Little Women star has since called the reaction to her Graham Norton Show comments wild, telling The Ryan Tubridy Show on Virgin Radio UK: Its definitely not something that I had expected, and I didnt necessarily set out to sort of make a splash. open image in gallery Ronan says viral reaction to her brutally honest Graham Norton Show remark has been wild ( Getty for Academy Museum ) But I do think theres something really telling about the society that were in right now and about how open women want to be with the men in their lives, the Oscar nominee said. Ronan revealed that so many men and women that I know from all over the world have reached out to her in response to her Graham Norton Show comment, which she urged fans to please to watch this in context. Please watch the whole interview or watch, at least, that part of the conversation, because it really wasnt about the boys werent sort of, like, debunking anything that I was saying, she continued. But at the same time, it felt very similar to, like, when I am at dinner with a bunch of my friends and I will always make the point that, well, this is actually an experience that we go through every single day, 100 per cent. The Lady Bird actor admitted that Mescal is one of her very dear friends and that she has had conversations like that with him before and he completely gets that. I think the fact that there was a moment like that that happened on a show like Graham Norton, which is something that the entire nation channels in to watch and even overseas, its something that people tune into, it seems to have had an accessibility which seems to have really gained traction, which I think is amazing, Ronan added. Its opening a conversation and again, hopefully, its allowing more and more women to just be like, well, yeah, actually, lets talk about our experience. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Strictly Come Dancing viewers have been left conflicted over the judges scores for Pete Wicks latest performance. The Only Way Is Essex star, 36, danced a Cha Cha to Im Too Sexy by Right Said Fred with his professional partner Jowita Przysta at Blackpool Tower Ballroom on Saturday night (16 November). Wicks was praised by Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, and Craig Revel Horwood for his upper body isolation but the judges were in fits of laughter over his entertaining hip action. Head judge Ballas told Pete: Your hips were swinging from left to rightIt was very entertaining. I dont think Im going to forget this evening for as long as I live. Meanwhile, Du Beke told the reality star his Cha Cha was lacking while Revel Horwood said the dance didnt sit naturally on him. When it was time to mark the performance, Wicks received a seven, two eights and a shock four from Revel Horwood. Some viewers were left shocked by the brutal score so many weeks into the competition while others agreed with the savagely low mark. open image in gallery Pete Wicks performing a Cha Cha at Blackpool Tower Ballroom ( BBC ) The 4 was pure evil but i have to laugh, one person wrote on X/Twitter. Meanwhile, another user added: A four at Blackpool is savage. I gasped. Elsewhere, another viewer commented on the inconsistencies with the judges marking. The same dance receiving a four and a eight from the judges?!?! This sh** is ridiculous. I fear the judging panel needs a shake up, they wrote. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free However, other Strictly fans thought Revel Horwoods mark was completely fair. For once, Im with Craig with that four, they wrote. Petes time is up. Wicks low score left him at the bottom of the Strictly leaderboard. Meanwhile, Love Islands Tasha Ghouri and Miranda star Sarah Hadland received the highest score of 39 for their performances. open image in gallery Judge Craig Revel Horwood contraversially scored Wicks a four ( BBC ) Strictly is usually held in the Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire. But for one week each year, the show moves up north to the Tower Ballroom in Blackpool an iconic and historical dancing venue. Elsewhere in the programme, Chris McCausland secured his highest score of the series so far performing a American Smooth to Jump by Paul Anka with his partner Dianne Buswell. Judges said of his performance: Your grace, your beauty.... you did not miss a beat. That was phenomenal. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A complete curfew has been imposed in parts of India's restive state of Manipur after protesters stormed residents of state leaders following the alleged killing of a family of six in the latest incident of escalation of the conflict between ethnic groups. Security forces fired tear gas to disperse a livid mob that unsuccessfully tried to storm chief minister N Biren Singhs house due to the governments alleged inaction over the killing of six people, including infants and women. The protesters on Saturday evening set fire to at least two churches and three houses in Jiribam and stormed residents of nearly half a dozen state ministers. The state government has imposed an indefinite curfew and shut down internet services in the districts of Churachandpur, Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur and Thoubal to curb the unrest. The six people went missing on 11 November after they were abducted by alleged militants during an attack on the police station. The bodies of two women and a child were recovered from the Barak River in Jiribam on Saturday, while the corpses of another woman and two other children were found a day before, India Today reported. The northeast Indian state bordering Myanmar has been bristling with ethnic violence since May last year between the majority Meiteis and the minority Kuki-Zo ethnic groups, which has led to the death of at least 250 people. The majority of Meiteis, who are predominantly Hindus, live in the capital Imphal and the nearby districts, while the Kuki-Zos live in the hilly areas. Civil society groups on Sunday issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the state government demanding action against armed militant groups following the recent spate of violence. open image in gallery Protest against the recent killings, in Imphal West ( REUTERS ) Earlier this month, the state was brought to a standstill following a protest over the killing of at least 10 people by paramilitary soldiers. The Manipur state police said those killed were armed militants and the soldiers fired at them after they attacked their post near Jiribam. The dead bodies were brought to Assam's Silchar Medical College Hospital bordering Jiribam for autopsy. The district became the latest epicentre of violence this month, triggering a series of killings after a tribal woman from the Hmar community was fatally burnt by suspected militants. open image in gallery Demonstrators demolish a security bunker outside the residence of a lawmaker during a protest against the recent killings ( REUTERS ) Sporadic clashes between two ethnic communities in the state have led to a steady trickle of deaths since the conflict began 20 months ago. The federal government, which this week reimposed the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in Manipur's six areas, asked all security forces to take necessary steps to restore order and peace in the state. Armed miscreants from both communities in conflict have been indulging in violence, leading to unfortunate loss of lives and disruption in public order," it said, according to the Indian Express. Public are requested to maintain peace, not believe in rumours and cooperate with the security forces to maintain law and order in the state." The state government on Saturday urged the federal home ministry to review and withdraw the notification declaring the reimposition of Afspa in six jurisdictions of Manipur. Afspa grants special power to armed forces to raid and arrest people without warrants along with the power to use maximum force, even to the extent of causing death, to deal with an emergency situation. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi urged prime minister Narendra Modi to visit Manipur and work towards restoring peace and healing in the region. After more than a year of division and suffering, it was the hope of every Indian that the Central and State governments would have made every effort at reconciliation and found a solution, he wrote on X. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Every time 41-year-old Leila Green sees the time 11:11 written on a clock, she takes a deep breath and closes her eyes. For her, its a sign that shes being protected by angels. So when 11 November rolls around each year, she takes things very seriously. I like to follow my intuition on that day, she explains. If someone I havent been in touch with for ages just pops into my head maybe theres a reason that I need to connect with that person. She often looks to angel numbers for guidance and support. Just last month, Green purposefully booked her driving test for 11:11 in the morning. Shed failed numerous attempts before, but this time around successfully passed. It put me in a more positive mindset to take the test, she says. Its the feeling that Ive got the universe on my side. Angel numbers are sequences of figures such as 111, 222 or 888 that casually appear in our daily lives, with believers convinced that their presence signifies a hidden message from an angel, a spirit guide or the universe itself. And if you look closely enough, repeated angel numbers are everywhere: on car number plates, receipts, clocks, our screens, and within telephone numbers. On TikTok, there are countless videos of people proclaiming the mystical meaning of these sequences, or instructing you how to calculate your own special figure (reached by adding up the digits in your birth date). Hollywood is obsessed with them, too: Katy Perrys new album, 143, is named after her own angel number. Kylie Jenner often wears a gold 222 necklace. Jennifer Aniston has 11:11 tattooed on the inside of her wrist. In an era that experts say is being defined by digital spirituality, angel numbers have never been so ubiquitous. I was sat there thinking were never going abroad again. Then I got the receipt and there was this angel number... Inbaal Honigman As a card-carrying member of Gen Z a generation unafraid of experimenting with concepts like manifestation or star signs Ill confess that the topic of angel numbers crops up in many conversations I have with friends. I often make a wish when I see a clock at 11:11, even though Im not fully sold on the concept. At the Tesco checkout last week, my flatmate celebrated when her basket total came to 5.55. Ive been seeing fives everywhere recently, she told me. I think its a lucky sign to enter the lottery or something. Depending on where and from whom you get your information, each angel number holds a different meaning. Seeing the sequence 111 can represent good luck, a new opportunity or the ability to achieve your goals; 222 relates to balance, harmony and intuition; 333 is symbolic of growth or change. But its open to interpretation based on whats happening in your life, just like reading your astrological horoscope. When I speak to 50-year-old Inbaal Honigman, she tells me that she continually finds solace in angel numbers. She recalls being abroad with her four children and feeling stressed and exhausted, until she saw a long sequence of twos on her lunch receipt. Holidays abroad with four children are not easy, she sighs. I was sat there after ordering the food, thinking were never going abroad again. Then I got the receipt and there was this angel number 222.222 in the local currency. It was amazing. It was a confirmation that everything was fine. Honigman prefers to look for signs on receipts or bills, rather than on her phone screen, because it feels more authentic. My recent phone bill had a serial number printed on it, which contained 333, she says. I took it as a sign of a little blessing. Its a little bit like finding a fiver on the floor after youve made a decision its the universe gifting you something. open image in gallery Katy Perry named her new album 143 after her angel number ( Getty ) Richard Abbott is a numerologist and spiritual teacher who helps people find spiritual meaning in numbers. He tells me that angel numbers can be understood as protective energies. It doesnt have to be a literal angel in the sky with wings, he explains. These numbers might be a key or connector to a particular angel or protective energy. Numerology, which is traced back to ancient Greece, is based on the idea that numbers carry mystical meaning. And under that practice, duplicated numbers are very significant. If you get a repetition of the numbers, then youre getting a really strong and intense amount of energy, which is acting as a protective shield for you in that domain of your life, he explains. Abbott thinks that angel numbers have become so popular because we live in a digital world surrounded by screens. When Abbott was growing up, he says there werent many digital clocks. But now, numbers are constantly glaring at us. Were getting lifts that go up certain floors that are numbered, we get on flights that have certain seat numbers, we have cinema seat numbers, says Abbott. There are more numbers than there has ever been. As a numerologist, Abbott is an interpreter of numbers, almost like a tarot reader. He might add together a clients date of birth to get their angel number, or find the numerical value of their name instead, if A = one and B = two, and so on. He assures me that many of his clients are successful business people who are following the path that numbers lay out for them. You wouldnt believe the degree to which this is practised among serious people, he says. My clients are some very professional people who are intelligent, who are doing well, and making things happen in the world. If his clients start seeing repeated numbers, Abbott will tell them to not look away. Its the universe trying to tell you something, or offer you some kind of protection. Its a good thing, roll with it and itll take you to a better place. open image in gallery If you look closely enough, repeated angel numbers are everywhere ( Getty/iStock ) To be clear: scientifically and mathematically speaking, angel numbers are a load of nonsense. And even in some spiritual communities, angel numbers have been debunked. In an article published earlier this year in The Cut, Doreen Virtue, who is said to have coined the term angel numbers in 2004 and made a career profiting from it through books and TV appearances, admitted that the concept is garbage. It was very fortune cookie stuff, very generalised, she said. I knew someone whose mom was dying, and the number 444 was a comfort to her. She thought that meant her mom would live, and she didnt. It may be reassuring to think angels are with you, but to say, I dont have to take action, because the angels are going to do the work, or the angels told me this is going to be OK thats false hope. Abbott is well aware of this criticism and says that using angel numbers requires exercising common sense. Just because youve looked down and seen 11:11 on your phone once, it might not mean anything it might just mean that youre hungry, he says. What Im interested in is when its happening a lot... when youre going about your business in a normal way and you keep seeing these numbers pop up all of the time. Then there is something thats trying to be communicated to you, and that becomes meaningful. There are more numbers than there has ever been Richard Abbott, numerologist and spiritual teacher While most angel number devotees wont be aware of the fact that the very woman who coined the term has since disowned it, there is still a growing movement of people attempting to untangle what numbers mean. Green, an entrepreneur who was raised in a spiritual home, is aware that angel numbers arent something you can wish upon passively. Its more of an active process of getting clear about what you want, she says. Like, what order are you putting into the universe that day? And how will you make it happen? Its a sign to take positive action towards that goal. Theres no point saying you want your dream home and not bothering going to the estate agents. Personally speaking, I cant say that any of my 11:11am wishes over the years have done much for me. But for others like Green, it makes them feel good, and it gives them guidance when they need it. And theres no real harm in people finding hope in a mystical concept. Even if that concept was plucked out of thin air in 2004. Wait. 2-0-0-4? I keep seeing those numbers everywhere Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Jennifer Love Hewitt has opened up about grief following her mothers passing in 2012, and how the media knew about her death before she did. The Ghost Whisperer star, 45, recently spoke about her forthcoming book Inheriting Magic in which she recounts her healing journey after her mothers death from cancer at a bookshop event in Los Angeles, California, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Hewitts mother, Patricia Mae Hewitt, died from complications from cancer on June 12, 2012, aged 67. The I Know What You Did Last Summer actor, who was 33 at the time, shared that she learned about her mothers passing through the media. The part that I didnt put in the book is that actually the press knew that my mom had passed before I did, Hewitt said at the event. At the time, she was in Monaco for the 52nd Monte Carlo TV Festival. The flight time with me getting back was so long, she recalled. It was like a 10-and-a-half-hour flight, so by the time I arrived, everybody knew, and it was such a weird thing for me. open image in gallery Jennifer Love Hewitt says she learned about her mothers passing through the media ( Getty Images ) But then later on, I was like, but everybodys always known everything about my life, kind of, before. Even breakups, people have been like, He was cheating on you already. Really, people? Like, why didnt you tell me? In Inheriting Magic: My Journey Through Grief, Joy, Celebration, and Making Every Day Magical, which is set for release on December 10, Hewitt opens up about her close relationship with her mother, who she said made everyone around her feel special. I would be on a very successful television show, we would walk into a restaurant and people couldnt care less about me; that was my mother, the 9-1-1 actor explained. They wanted to know who was the woman that I was standing next to because she was light, she was joy. She made friends with everyone, there was no stranger in the world to her whatsoever. Hewitt, who stars in the upcoming Lifetime Christmas movie The Holiday Junkie, recalled how her mother even tried to bring joy to the most somber occasion. If I had a broken heart or a bad day, she would put up Christmas lights because she believed that that sort of lifted the mood, she said. If I had bad cramps, there were lights. open image in gallery Hewitts mother Patricia Mae died in 2012 following complications with cancer ( Getty Images ) Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Hewitt admitted that she hadnt ever said that much about [her] mother after shed passed because she didnt have the words before. I just didnt know what to say, and this felt like the right time to talk about her and sort of say, This is what she left behind, she told the outlet. Hewitt has been married to actor Brian Hallisay since 2013. The couple share three children together daughter Autumn, 10, and sons Atticus, nine, and Aiden, three. In June last year, the Heartbreakers star honored her mother on the 11th anniversary of her passing. She paid tribute on Instagram by sharing a throwback photo of herself with Patricia Mae. 11 years ago my life changed in a moment. We didnt get to say goodbye but I think its because we wouldnt have known how, Hewitt wrote in the caption. I see you in my kids everyday. I feel you in things I say and smile because Im more like you than I thought. I honor you by trying to create magic for my family just like you did for us. I love you deeply. Im so grateful you were our mom. This day will always hurt because you were that special. Always and forever mom. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The worst case scenario has happened at work. Perhaps you sent a big document off to the printers with an embarrassing spelling error on the front page. Maybe you accidentally ccd a client into some particularly scathing internal emails. Or someone vital just pulled out of a big project. Do you silently seethe and indulge in some weapons-grade eye-rolling? Or do you loudly let off a string of the most unpleasant expletives you can come up with, summoning the spirit of sweary spin doctor Malcolm Tucker from The Thick of It as you go? The latter scenario would once have been considered an unforgivable faux pas, reason enough to have you hauled in front of HR immediately. But now it might only provoke some raised eyebrows and a flurry of furtive Slack messages between your bemused colleagues. Thats because dropping the f-bomb at the office may no longer be a colossal, well, f*** up. Last year, 30 per cent of participants in a LinkedIn survey admitted to swearing constantly at work. Another study found that the average UK employee hears 11 swear words a day (an estimate that would be pretty conservative in many of the offices Ive worked in). A spate of high profile legal cases has highlighted just how far the norms have shifted when it comes to profanities on the job, too. In 2023, a tribunal judge ruled that the phrase I dont give a f*** could now be considered a fairly commonplace office interaction. A separate unfair dismissal case made the news this month, when another judge suggested that swearing at work is more accepted in the north of England. Yet despite these headline-grabbing examples, the idea of turning the air blue in a meeting room will probably still be anathema to some, because swearing and the wider question of how we cause and take offence in general is a subjective, hazy issue. One person might use bastard as a twisted term of endearment; another might see that behaviour as beyond the pale. So how did we get so coarse at work and how rude is too rude when were interacting with colleagues? When were attempting to grapple with those questions, context is important. I think swearing, or even ideas about good manners and decorum, are all cultural artefacts that reflect peoples norms, their values, and their attitudes in a given time and place, says Dr Alex Gapud, cultural anthropologist at employee engagement consultancy scarlettabbott. There are some sectors that seem to have cultivated a more expletives the merrier approach over the years. Working in a restaurant kitchen is notoriously sweary (for a case in point, see Gordon Ramsays entire personal brand). So is the world of finance you only have to watch a few stress-inducing minutes of banking drama Industry to get a taste. The art world, so very different to the City in most other respects, plays similarly fast and loose with cursing (so countercultural, darling). The more you tolerate it, the more [swearing] youre going to get, says Gillian McAteer, director of employment law at legal firm Citation. So its very easy for it to get out of control. You might have a leader who feels like they need to swear because they have an idea or norm of what alpha behaviour is Dr Alex Gapud, cultural anthropologist Whats striking is that these professions have a performative side to them its as if those involved feel they have to live up to a particular image in order to truly inhabit the part. Just think of Tom Wambsgans in Succession, who seemed to get more and more creative with his expletive-ridden insults as he became more enmeshed in the corporate structure of his father-in-laws media empire. We tend to play roles as we believe they ought to be played, Gapud adds. You might have a leader who feels like they need to swear because they have an idea or norm of what alpha behaviour is. Wanting to fit in, he says, can be such a powerful force at work, especially because being an insider or being seen as the right kind of person often gets rewarded. You tend to get promoted if you behave the right way and sometimes the right way involves doing something otherwise considered wrong. open image in gallery Playing alpha: Successions Tom Wambsgans (Matthew Macfadyen, right) seemed to get more and more creative with his expletive-ridden insults as he climbed the corporate ladder of media ( HBO ) What we consider to be offensive or profane, Gapud points out, varies over time. Swearing is certainly far less taboo in day-to-day conversation than it once was. In a 2021 report from the British Board of Film Classification, which updates its guidelines around bad language in film and TV by consulting with the public, six out of 10 people said that swearing was part of their daily lives. Plus, one third of the participants admitted to cursing more than they did five years before. Its inevitable, then, that these looser attitudes to language have infiltrated the office, helped along by a concurrent shift towards a more informal working culture, with authenticity as a common if nebulous corporate buzzword. The BBFCs research also highlighted a significant generational divide: 46 per cent of Gen Z said they swore daily, compared to just 12 per cent of 55 to 64 year olds. As the workforce gets younger, theyre likely to reshape office customs in accordance with their own habits. And the blurring of boundaries between our professional and private lives in the wake of the pandemic has likely had a knock-on effect too: theres been seepage between how we behave at home and work, Gapud says, because we might be working remotely, or working outside of the nine-to-five hours. Dr Tara Reich, reader in organisational behaviour and human resource management at Kings Business School, agrees. I think Covid threw a lot of expectations about working culture in the air, and also created a lot of stress and uncertainty for employees at all levels, so the norms of the workplace are probably more in flux than they were before, she says. Swearing isnt only an instrument of rudeness, either: we might use bad language to joke, add emphasis to a story or bond with others. On the positive side, swearing with trusted colleagues can build connections, show authenticity and create a comfortable environment where people feel free to express themselves, says Alex Alvarez, lead people scientist at employee experience platform Culture Amp. Hearing our co-workers express genuine feelings in strong, unvarnished terms might even help us see them as, whisper it, fallible human beings. Swearing is a bit of a risk, and doing so makes us vulnerable; it might signal to the people around us that we trust them enough to bend the rules in their presence (of course, this is tied up in corporate power structures, too were surely more likely to swear among our direct peers and office pals, rather than semi-ironically calling our bosss boss a w***er). open image in gallery Bonding: sometimes swearing might even help us build connections with colleagues ( Getty/iStock ) But thats not the whole story. Excessive or aggressive swearing can be harmful in tense situations, it may escalate conflict or create a hostile environment, Alvarez says. What one worker deems a casual insult might be seen as totally unacceptable by the colleague who sits next to them. Telling that person that theyre overreacting or getting the wrong end of the stick risks undermining their concern and potentially leaving them feeling isolated. Building an inclusive culture means recognising that different people have different reactions to language, and an I didnt mean to offend response will not help if someone feels disrespected, Alvarez adds. If someones tirades are leaving those around them feeling uncomfortable or unable to speak up, thats a glaring issue. If someones uncivil behaviour makes another person feel like their dignity has been violated or that the environment is hostile to them, then we have a problem, especially if there are protected characteristics involved [such as race, gender, age or disability], says Reich, adding that theres some research that suggests that women and ethnic minorities are more likely to report experiencing incivility. She points to the work of US academic Lilia Cortina, who has explored the phenomenon of selective incivility, where rudeness is targeted towards a specific group, as a form of covert discrimination at work. The flip side to this, too, is that women and minorities might be more harshly judged for swearing; this, Alvarez points out, can potentially deepen workplace divides. Building an inclusive culture means recognising that different people have different reactions to language Alex Alvarez, lead people scientist at Culture Amp Most workplaces will have set out a policy about using offensive language, usually under the heading of misconduct, explains McAteer, but, inevitably, the big grey area is what is offensive? I dont think its as black and white as it used to be. When considering whether swearing amounts to misconduct, context matters, says Fudia Smartt, employment lawyer at Spencer West. A tribunal is likely to take into account a whole range of factors, she adds, looking at the workplace culture, whether an employers reputation was damaged, whether someone was provoked and if the language has been used in the heat of the moment. Employers might also find themselves in tricky territory, McAteer adds, if they have a policy, but [they]ve not trained people on it that is a big risk. Another massive risk is, if youve got a policy but its not what people are doing in practice. If an employee is dismissed for bad language, then they could argue that they were simply acting in accordance with the office norms. Theyre going to say, well, you didnt take action in all these other instances, she explains. Creating a list of banned words, as a way of trying to make things more black and white, is unlikely to go down well either. It might come across as patronising, itd be hard to police and, as Reich puts it, misses the point that its not usually about the words themselves, but what they mean to the person who hears [them]. So what is the best way to navigate this undeniably tricky terrain? Alvarez has a good rule of thumb: Ultimately, swearing in the workplace should be used with caution, limited to small, trusted groups where it wont alienate or offend others. If in doubt, save the profanities for your debrief with your (non-work) friends in the pub afterwards. Or, in more colourful terms, shut the f*** up until youre well away from the office. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Thousands of protesters gathered in Slovakias capital on Sunday, the 35th anniversary of the Velvet Revolution that brought an end to decades of communist rule in Czechoslovakia, to oppose the policies of populist Prime Minister Robert Fico. The protest united the opposition, including the liberal Progressive Slovakia, pro-business Freedom and Solidarity and the conservative Christian Democrats who all said Fico's a threat to democracy. The government takes our freedom and democracy, a banner in the crowd read. Slovakia is and will be part of the Western civilization, a conservative political veteran Frantisek Miklosko, who was one of the Slovak leaders in 1989, told the crowd at downtown SNP square. We dont want anyone to move us toward Moscow. Czechoslovakia peacefully split into the Czech Republic and Slovakia in 1993. Freedom and Solidarity leader Branislav Grohling said Fico is leading the country to an authoritarian regime like in Russia and communist China. Michal Simecka, the head of Progressive Slovakia, which is currently the most popular party in the country, said the opposition will do what it takes to protect freedom and democracy. Slovakia is and will be a nation of free people. And free people wont be silent, he said. Fico and his leftist Smer (Direction) party won last years won parliamentary elections on a pro-Russia and anti-American platform. His government has pushed through a plan to overhaul public broadcasting a move critics said would give the government full control of public television and radio. That, along with a move to amend a penal code and eliminate a special anti-graft prosecutor, has led opponents to worry that he would lead Slovakia down a more autocratic path, following the direction of Hungary under populist Prime Minister Viktor Orban. His views on Russias war on Ukraine and other issues sharply differ from the European mainstream. Fico ended his countrys military aid for Ukraine, opposes EU sanctions on Russia, wants to block Ukraine from joining NATO and plans a trip to Russia. Sign up for the Independent Women email for the latest news, opinion and features Get the Independent Women email for free Get the Independent Women email for free SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A grieving mother has said she is facing a life sentence after her daughter took her own life to escape her abusive ex-boyfriend and warned that perpetrators are not being held to account. Sharon Holland said abusers are getting away with driving their victims to suicide, as figures show rates have surged year-on-year and overtaken the number of victims killed by their tormentors for the first time. In England and Wales, some 93 people are suspected to have taken their own lives between April 2022 and March 2023 after being abused, while 80 people were killed by a current or former partner, according to the national Domestic Homicide Project. Chloe Holland, 23, died after suffering a year of torment at the hands of Marc Masterton, during which he isolated her, tracked her phone, told her to take her own life, and repeatedly assaulted her. The case was described as one of the most appalling and heartbreaking the police investigator had seen. Brick by Brick Donate here to The Independents Brick by Brick campaign, in partnership with the leading domestic abuse charity Refuge, to raise funds to build two houses for women and children escaping abusive partners. The initial 300,000 target was surpassed thanks to generous donations from readers. More than 500,000 in donations has flooded in so far, and plans are already underway for a second home. Be a brick, buy a brick and donate here or text BRICK to 70560 to donate 15 Chloes mother warned that the number of suicides linked to domestic abuse is only the tip of the iceberg, as she demanded: If there are more suicides than killings now, why isnt more being done? Refuge estimates that as many as three women die each week in England and Wales from suicide due to domestic abuse. Perpetrators are rarely charged over the suspected suicides, and, without a victim to give evidence against them, they often escape other domestic violence charges as well. Despite a total of 216 suicides being linked to domestic abuse since 2020, The Independent can only find evidence of one successful prosecution, in 2017, for manslaughter in such circumstances. open image in gallery Chloe Holland, whose abuser was jailed for coercive and controlling behaviour last year ( Sharon Holland ) Nicholas Allen was jailed for 10 years after his ex-girlfriend Justene Reece took her own life as a direct result of his controlling behaviour, which included abusive voicemails, texts and Facebook messages as well as stalking. In Chloes case, Masterton was jailed last year for 41 months for coercive and controlling behaviour, but the CPS felt there was insufficient evidence to pursue manslaughter charges. His former partner Zoe Castle came forward after hearing of Chloes death, and he was jailed for a further 43 months earlier this year. But Ms Holland has called for tougher legislation, and for a new offence of manslaughter by coercive control to be introduced to ensure that abusers are held responsible. A few years isnt enough of a sentence for what hes done to my family, she said. It doesnt matter how many years you get, its never going to make up for whats happened but at least it would be a little bit more justice. During Mastertons 12-month relationship with Chloe, he would routinely control her appearance, assault her, keep her from friends and family, belittle her, and tell her to take her own life, police said. On one occasion, at Mastertons address in Southsea, Portsmouth, Chloe threatened to kill herself after he assaulted her with a dumbbell. In response, Masterton handed her a knife and ordered her to harm herself. He would also deliberately give her black eyes so that she would not be able to see her son, police added. In February 2023, Chloe made an attempt on her own life. She survived for more than a month in hospital before she passed away in March. I had to make the decision to let her go; it was horrendous, said Ms Holland, 51. I didnt know the extent of it all until she did what she did. Following her daughters death, Ms Holland discovered abusive messages Masterton had sent hidden in bank transfers after Chloe had tried to cut contact with him. He would transfer 10p with cruel messages written in the bank reference. open image in gallery Mother Sharon Holland (left) is fighting for tougher punishment for abusers following the death of her daughter Chloe ( Sharon Holland ) Before she died, Chloe reported Masterton for domestic abuse and gave a two-hour video submission to police, which led to the 26-year-olds conviction for coercive and controlling behaviour. Police staff investigator Nikki Brogan of Hampshire Constabulary described him as pure evil, adding that his crime was one of the most appalling and heartbreaking cases of domestic abuse I have ever come across. Ms Holland said she is in contact with at least 30 families who have suffered similar losses, but only a fraction have seen their loved ones abuser face any criminal justice. She added: For us it is a life sentence now. Our lives will never be the same. You cant lose a child and just get on with it and move on. And with the ones that havent had any justice, they are just fighting and fighting; you cant even grieve until its all over. Ms Holland is awaiting the results of a domestic homicide review (DHR) and an inquest into her daughters death, which she hopes will conclude that Chloe was unlawfully killed. It comes after a coroner overturned a conclusion of suicide in a landmark case last year, ruling that Kellie Sutton had been unlawfully killed. Sutton took her own life after suffering abuse at the hands of her partner Steven Gane. Frank Mullane, CEO of charity Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse, said that inadequate, superficial or non-existent investigations following a victim suicide mean that perpetrators are often not held to account. This leaves many bereaved families not only broken-hearted, but frustrated that justice evades them, he added, noting that for many, a DHR and an inquest are the only investigations into their loved ones death. open image in gallery A coroner ruled that Kellie Sutton, who took her own life after suffering abuse, had been unlawfully killed ( Collect ) Abigail Ampofo, interim CEO of Refuge, said the figures around suicide following domestic abuse are likely only the tip of the iceberg due to underreporting. The trauma that can develop as a result of experiencing domestic abuse must not be underestimated, she said. A Refuge study, in collaboration with the University of Warwick, found that 83 per cent of people who used Refuges services reported feelings of despair or hopelessness a key determinant for suicidality. At least 24 per cent said they had felt suicidal at one time or another, with 18 per cent sharing that they had made plans to end their life. Ms Ampofo added: Despite the harrowing impact that domestic abuse can have on the mental wellbeing of those who experience it, deaths by suicide are not formally recognised as domestic-abuse-related deaths. Refuge calls for greater recognition of how domestic abuse can directly cause suicide, and we will continue to campaign for a world where no more lives are taken by the crime that is domestic abuse. A government spokesperson said: Our thoughts are with the families of those who have lost loved ones as a result of domestic abuse. Abusers who drive their partners to taking their own lives as a result of their vile behaviour face prosecution under existing manslaughter and encouraging suicide offences. Our commitment to halving violence against women and girls within a decade, placing domestic abuse specialists in 999 call centres, and introducing bespoke protection orders, will also help us keep victims safe. Please donate now to the Brick by Brick campaign, launched by The Independentand charity Refuge, to help raise 300,000 to build a safe space for women where they can escape domestic abuse, rebuild their lives and make a new future. If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch. If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy An international manhunt has been launched for the husband of a woman found dead and stuffed in a car boot 100 miles away from home who is thought to have fled the country. Police released a CCTV image of Pankaj Lamba, who they believe murdered Harshita Brella, 24, earlier this month before fleeing the country on Sunday. Ms Brella was discovered in a car boot on Brisbane Road, Ilford, after detectives found her home in the small town of Corby, Northamptonshire lying empty. open image in gallery Pankaj Lamba is thought to have fled the country ( Northamptonshire Police ) Responding to calls concerned for her welfare, officers got no answer at her home in Skegness Walk and promptly launched a fast-track search for her. This hunt led them to an empty car in east London, where they discovered Ms Brellas body inside the boot some 95.7 miles away from her home. A postmortem at Leicester Royal Infirmary established that Harshita had been murdered. Northamptonshire Police have referred themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) after they said officers had previous contact with Ms Brella before she was killed. open image in gallery Harshita Brella was found in a car boot 100 miles from home ( Northamptonshire Police/PA Wire ) In a statement, Chief Inspector Paul Cash of Northamptonshire Police said: Our inquiries lead us to suspect that Harshita was murdered in Northamptonshire earlier this month by her husband Pankaj Lamba. We suspect Lamba transported Harshitas body from Northamptonshire to Ilford by car. We believe he has now fled the country. Police have released an image of Mr Lamba and urged anyone with any information that may assist inquiries, no matter how small, to contact the force. The Northants Telegraph reports Harshita Brella was previously the victim of domestic violence and just two months ago was made subject of a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) at Northampton Magistrates Court. open image in gallery Pankaj Lamba ( Police ) Police have urged anyone with information that could assist the investigation into Harshita Brellas death to come forward. In a statement, Chief Inspector Paul Cash of Northamptonshire Police said: I urge anyone listening to or reading this statement, that if you saw anything suspicious in the past week or have any information, no matter how small, please contact us. We would always rather receive well-meaning information that turns out to be nothing as opposed to not receiving it all. He added: Anyone who has any information that could help detectives bring Harshitas killer to justice can contact the incident room by calling 101, quoting incident number Operation Westcott. Alternatively information can be submitted via our online public portal at www.mipp.police.uk or please feel free to call Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555111. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The number of ex-offenders charged with committing serious crimes while on probation has surged by a third to hit a grim new record, the latest figures show. Amid concerns over how the probation service will cope with the governments early release of thousands of prisoners, new data showed probation units identified 770 occasions last year in which released criminals appeared in court accused of committing a serious further offence. That figure which includes crimes such as murder, rape, serious violence and arson, allegedly committed while on probation or within 28 days of leaving the services supervision is up 33 per cent in the year to 31 March this year, compared to 579 the previous year, according to the Ministry of Justice. It is the highest number on record and coincides with the first five months of the Tories emergency move to free prisoners early. Victims advocates told The Independent the increase was very worrying, as HM chief inspector of probation warned high caseloads and pressures on the overstretched probation service were undermining its ability to keep the public safe. Probation officers have borne the brunt of emergency measures to ease the prisons crisis, with more than 13,000 prisoners freed up to 70 days early under Tory schemes since last October, and at least 3,000 more let out 40 per cent of the way into their sentence under Labour in recent months. With unions describing the early release scheme as causing absolute mayhem, inspectors have warned of prisoners being released from jail without sufficient planning to ensure public protection or to avoid them being released into homelessness heightening the risk of reoffending. In November, the aunt of Zara Aleena a young lawyer murdered in 2022 by a man wrongly classified as medium-risk upon being freed from prison said she feared the crisis in probation could see other families suffer fatal errors. In another recent high-profile case, a mother and three children were murdered in Killamarsh by a man whose risk was incorrectly assessed. open image in gallery Zara Aleena was killed by a man whose risk was wrongly classifed just days after he left prison ( Family handout/Met Police/PA ) Analysis of the latest data shows 603 people have been convicted of murder while being supervised by probation since 2014 equating to more than one murder conviction every week. Against this backdrop, new figures also showed a 33 per cent rise in charges over serious further crimes brought against violent and sexual offenders subject to Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (Mappa), in which they are monitored by both probation and the police due to the nature of their past crimes. A total of 216 offenders subject to Mappa monitoring after being freed from prison were charged with committing a serious further offence in 2023/24, more than any year since 2018. There were also 132 convictions over serious new crimes committed by ex-offenders on Mappa arrangements in a rise of 15 per cent on the previous year, according to Ministry of Justice figures. Some of these will relate to charges brought in previous years. Describing the rise as very worrying, victims commissioner, Baroness Newlove, told The Independent: When offenders are released into the community, the safety of victims and the public is paramount. open image in gallery The Independent has previously reported on warnings that some new criminal trials are not being listed until 2027 ( Getty/iStock/The Independent ) Ms Newlove added: If victims are to have faith in the justice system, they must be confident offenders are being managed effectively in the community and in no doubt they will be recalled to custody if their behaviour gives cause for concern. I recognise the probation service has a difficult job to do in managing high risk offenders it must be resourced to do this effectively, including manageable caseloads for offender managers. I welcome the governments commitment to recruit more probation staff. This must be a priority. Chief inspector Martin Jones told The Independent: The probation service has a large and often complex workload. Given that size and complexity, it is extremely difficult to predict when a serious further offence (SFO) will take place, however, it is always concerning to see any increase in the number of SFO charges and convictions. Good probation practice helps keeps communities safe. Our recent inspections have found shortcomings in public protection work by the probation service due to the high caseloads and pressures it is facing. It is vital that the service continues to prioritise risk assessment and management to minimise the likelihood of SFOs occurring. A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: Serious further offences are incredibly rare, with less than 0.5 per cent of offenders under probation supervision being convicted of one. We recognise the devastating impact of these offences on victims and we are taking urgent action to improve supervision of offenders, including recruiting 1,000 new trainee probation officers by March 2025. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The bishop who forced Justin Welby to resign over his handling of the John Smyth abuse case has warned that too many senior clerics are putting their own job prospects above tackling scandals in the Church of England. Helen-Ann Hartley, the Bishop of Newcastle, broke ranks last week to speak out over the former Archbishop of Canterburys failure to stop serial abuser Smyth from continuing to pursue his victims. She claimed Welby and the Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell sent her a coercive letter. Speaking to Sky News on Sir Trevor Phillips Sunday show, Bishop Hartley has raised the stakes further, claiming that fellow bishops are deliberately staying silent on the problems in the church because they hope to replace Welby. open image in gallery The Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby has resigned (Gareth Fuller/PA) ( PA Wire ) She said: Silence speaks in many ways. Some are silent, perhaps because they see themselves as succeeding to be the new Archbishop of Canterbury. Others are fearful of being reprimanded and rebuked because I know that colleagues have received letters similar to mine, which are quite heavy in tone. So I think genuinely they're motivated by a fear of just keeping their heads down and not feeling able to speak out, which I think is really unfortunate. Sir Trevor responded: What you seem to be saying to me is that this is a senior hierarchy, if you like, infected by straightforward careerism. That people won't do what they should do because they're looking forward to the next job. Is that - is that right? Bishop Helen-Ann replied: I think there will be some thinking like that, unfortunately and I mean, I know that from informal conversations with colleagues. I think others are just used to keeping their heads down and getting on with the job at hand, which is - which is fair enough. But there are times when a prophetic voice is needed and we do have to stand up. open image in gallery Bishop Helen-Ann Hartley ( AFP/Getty ) The damning verdict on Church of England bishops comes as pressure mounts for more resignations in the Smyth scandal. Former archbishop Welby reluctantly announced his resignation this week after pressure for him to go forced him out. Smyth, a former barrister, abused boys at evangelical camps, often taking them into soundproof sheds. He used his leadership roles in the Iwerne Trust in the 1970s and 1980s to carry out his crimes. The Trust was a charity that organised summer camps for young Christians. He is known to have sexually, psychologically and physically abused about 30 boys and young men in the United Kingdom and 85 in Zimbabwe and South Africa over five decades. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The daughter of a Georgian billionaire and her husband who are suing a property seller for 36m over a moth infestation at their Victorian seven-bedroom Notting Hill home have been accused of portraying their home as like an insect house at a zoo. Iya Patarkatsishvili, the daughter of an oligarch, and her husband Dr Yevhen Hunyak, are suing the seller of their luxury London home for not telling them about the moths, which they say ruin their clothes and spoil their wine, and have forced them to install 400 traps around their house. They want their money back on the 32.5m purchase of the home, plus damages, claiming that they would have to tear their house apart to rid it of the infestation. But lawyers for seller, William Woodward-Fisher, are fighting the High Court claim and say the moth presence in the house has been blown out of proportion and could be just the base level seen in other London houses. It is possible when reading some of the evidence in this case to imagine being inside the property like being in an insect house at a zoo, said his barrister Jonathan Seitler KC. However, any given level of moth presence can bother one person whilst not bothering, or even being noticeable to, another. Previously, the High Court heard that Mr Woodward-Fisher, 68, who formerly competed for Great Britain as a rower, bought the site in 2011 and lived there with interior designer wife Kerry, 64. The house was extended and radically remodelled by Mr Woodward-Fisher to about 11,000 sq ft, before it was sold on to Dr Hunyak, 50, and Ms Patarkatsishvili, 41, in 2019. Dr Hunyak is a pediatric dentist who practices in Chelsea, while his wife is daughter of Badri Patarkatsishvili, a Georgian businessman who fell out with Vladimir Putin and set up home in the UK in 2000 before dying of heart failure in 2008. open image in gallery Iya Patarkatsishvili and Dr Yevhen Hunyak, are suing for 36 million ( Supplied by Champion News ) Prior to purchase, they or their staff visited the mansion - which has seven bathrooms, a swimming pool, spa, cinema and gym in a newly formed double basement - on at least 11 separate occasions, the court was told. But despite their careful inspection, the couple say they were dismayed when they were hit with what one insect specialist called an infestation of extreme proportionsamounting to millions of moths. They claim moths would land on their toothbrushes, that 50,000 worth of clothes were left in tatters and that they sometimes have to throw away wine after finding dead moths floating in glasses. They are suing, claiming Mr Woodward-Fisher was guilty of negligence or fraudulent misrepresentation in not revealing previous moth issues when they asked pre-purchase about any problems with vermin. However, Mr Woodward-Fisher strenuously denies doing anything wrong, pointing out that he told his solicitor that the house had previously had moths, but been told they do not qualify as vermin. He also said that despite his wife, Kerry, having been bothered by clothes moths in the past, it was not enough to concern him and had in any case been solved by pest controllers by July 2018. And his barrister Mr Seitler told the judge, Mr Justice Fancourt, that moth activity had been overstated and portrayed as like being in an insect house in a zoo. Experiences of moths vary from one person to another, he said, with some people not even noticing them. The plague of insects allegedly landed on the toothbrushes of the couple and their two children, as well as cutlery and plates of food. The couple also claimed that 50,000 worth of clothes were in tatters. Pediatric dentist Dr Hunyak, 50, even claimed he was forced to pour away glasses of wine after discovering floating moths inside. The couple have alleged that the moths are nesting in wool insulation behind the walls and ceilings of their property. Dr Hunyak said he had installed 400 moth traps around the house to keep on top of the problem and still swats them daily. They claim Mr Woodward-Fisher, 68, was either guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation or negligent in failing to disclose the previous moth issues when answering pre-sale inquiries about vermin in the house. Mr Woodward-Fisher denies all claims, insisting that he gave honest and full replies on the pre-sale inquiries form, and that as far as he knew any previous moth problems had been eliminated by the time of the move. The house was extended and remodelled by Mr Woodward-Fisher to about 11,000 sq ft, before it was sold to Dr Hunyak and Ms Patarkatsishvili in 2019. Prior to purchase, they or their staff visited the mansion on at least 11 separate occasions, the court was told. But despite their inspection, the couple said they were dismayed when one insect specialist told them it was an infestation of extreme proportionsamounting to millions of moths. open image in gallery William Woodward-Fisher and his wife Kerry ( Champion News ) The payout they are claiming would include Mr Woodward-Fisher buying back the house and compensating them for all expenses and inconvenience caused by the infestation. The court previously heard that the moths in the house could have been caused by thermal insulation installed in the walls and used as food by moth larvae. An expert for the couple had estimated it would cost nearly 10million to strip the house to its shell and root out any lingering pieces of insulation, the court heard. Mr Woodward-Fishers lawyers criticised the 10million claim, adding an expert told them it would only cost 160,000. Dr Hunyak and Ms Patarkatsishvili want the judge to reverse the house purchase. The former Olympic rower denies misleading the couple and said buying back the house would be impossible. The trial continues. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Swimmers have been warned to give seals their distance amid fears of a seal finger infection if bitten by the aquatic mammals that are gathering in their hundreds around the UK coastline. The British Divers Marine Life Rescue charity issued the call after hundreds of seals were spotted off the coast of Cornwall during pupping season in recent weeks. Around 120,000 grey seals set up home off the coast of Britain, which makes up 40 per cent of the worlds grey seals and almost all of Europes. Louise Round, a marine animal medic, explained that seal finger is caused by the necrotic bacteria on their teeth. She said: Its a really nasty blood infection, its horrible. It could basically mean you lose the finger. Theyre not like a dog or a puppy, you cant just go up and stroke them and theyre going to appreciate that, she said. They are a wild animal not used to humans. If you get too close they are going to bite. open image in gallery Atlantic grey seals gather every year to moult their winter fur ( PA Wire ) Ms Round said: Theyre actually doing really well. Were massively lucky in this country in that we have 40 per cent of the worlds population around our coastline. The vast majority of that is around the southwest coastline. Globally, they are a rare species so just because theyre doing quite well around here, globally they arent doing great. So we really need to appreciate these animals and understand how lucky we are to get these glimpses of them and have them on our coastline. The seals can live for as many as 35 years in the wild while dealing with predators like orcas and larger leopard seals. They survive on fish, squid, and other smaller prey to survive. The animals can dive below the oceans surface, reaching depths of more than 2,952 feet. Some of their dives can last for more than an hour and a half before they need to come up for air. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy One of the worlds most iconic rural brands has thrown its support behind farmers who have been left furious at the new changes to inheritance tax rules, saying its essential that we look after the people who feed us. Ahead of a huge farmer protest expected in London on Tuesday in what is already being dubbed rural Englands revolution, French-based tractor producer Massey Ferguson, a subsidiary of US-based AGCO, has become the first international manufacturing firm to weigh into the debate that kicked off in the wake of Labours first Budget where Rachel Reeves imposed a new tax on family farms. The chancellor has provoked outrage with the tractor tax by extending death duties to farms worth 1m or more at a rate of 20 per cent. Farmers have warned it will be the death of their sector unless Ms Reeves performs a U-turn. Massey Fergusons UK, Ireland and Middle East sales promotion manager Lindsay Haddon agreed the company of course held concerns about the impact of the new tax on farmers. Farmers protested in Llandudno on Saturday, where the prime minister was giving a speech ( AFP/Getty ) Our business and our brand, and that of our dealer network relies heavily on our customers [farmers] to flourish and continue to be able to grow their businesses without fear of persecution or added red tape, Ms Haddon said in a written statement to The Independent. We have a vested interest in seeing family farms continue, generation after generation, after all, we wouldnt be here if it wasnt for these guys. More than anything though, we all have to eat! And we know, food is precious so we look after the people who feed us. The intervention comes as manufacturers and distributors of farm machinery contemplate joining the fray ahead of planned protests in Whitehall on Tuesday, while supermarkets are closely monitoring any potential impact the demonstrations could have on supply. Thousands of outraged farmers will be protesting over the chancellors plans to impose inheritance tax on farmland for the first time since 1992, having had to change the location of the demonstration because of the huge numbers intending to attend. The president of the National Farmers Union (NFU) said that farmers in England and Wales feel betrayed by the tax changes. Tom Bradshaw told Skys Sunday with Trevor Phillips show that many hoped to meet their MPs to tell them from the heart what this means for them, their family, their farm, their future. I have never seen the united sense of anger that there is in this industry today, Mr Bradshaw said. The industry is feeling betrayed, feeling angry. The government said that this wouldnt happen. Stephen Howarth, an economist for the Agricultural Engineers Association which represents major farm machinery manufacturers said the inheritance tax was going to impact farmers confidence, which would affect their expenditure on investments like machinery. A Treasury spokesperson said: With public services crumbling, a 22bn fiscal hole inherited from the previous government and 40 per cent of agricultural property relief going to the 7 per cent wealthiest claimants, we made a difficult decision to ensure the relief is fiscally sustainable. Around 500 claims each year will be impacted and farm-owning couples can pass on up to 3m without paying any inheritance tax this is a fair and balanced approach. The issue has already troubled prime minister Sir Keir Starmer who dodged another protest by farmers in Llandudno, north Wales, when he was accused of running out of the back door of Saturdays Welsh Labour conference like a flipping rat to avoid demonstrators. But speaking on Sky News this morning, transport secretary Louise Haigh, who has friends and family in the farming sector, insisted that the government would not be U-turning on the issue, claiming that the tax was fair and proportionate. However, there is a row over how many family farms will be affected. Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) figures suggest it could be as much as 66 per cent, while the Treasury maintains it will be 28 per cent. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A senior minister has defended plans to strike deals with countries like Libya, Vietnam, and even the semi-autonomous region of Kurdistan to help tackle the illegal migrant crisis and stop the small boats crossing. Transport secretary Louise Haigh confirmed reports in The Sunday Times that home secretary Yvette Cooper and Sir Keir Starmer were in talks with a range of countries to end the migrant crisis. But speaking on Sky News Sunday morning show with Sir Trevor Phillips, she insisted that the deals were not the same as the Tories failed Rwanda scheme, which cost the taxpayer hundreds of millions and was cancelled as soon as Labour took power. Ms Haigh said: The prime minister and home secretary have made no secret that this is an international problem which needs international solutions. That is why both of them have been working with their counterparts across Europe and across the world to make sure we have deals in place to make sure we can tackle this problem. Louise Haigh said that third-country deals to stop illegal migration are not the same as the Tory Rwanda plan ( PA Wire ) We cant tackle it on our own at the border. That is why the prime minister was at Interpol recently. We need to tackle the problem upstream. Instead of being a deportation programme, as Rwanda was intended to be, the deals with countries like Vietnam will be similar to the ones which Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni has struck with countries such as Libya to prevent migrants from setting off on the perilous journey to Europe. The deals involve handing the countries millions of pounds to try to tackle the problem at source. Sir Keir recently met with Ms Meloni to discuss the migration crisis as it was being reported that her efforts had led to a 62 per cent reduction in illegal migrants coming across the Mediterranean. Pressed by Sir Trevor on why this was different from the Rwanda scheme, Ms Haigh said: Rwanda was a failed gimmick that failed to solve the problem. Rwanda wasnt working well, was costing the taxpayer a fortune and wasnt working as a deterrent. She refused to discuss how much the deals will cost when, as expected, they are agreed at the end of this year but admitted that it will be millions. But she pointed out: We are wasting hundreds of millions at the moment with hotel accommodation. The deals will go hand in hand with Sir Keirs revamped Border Command to help stop the small boats. However, as things stand, the number of migrants crossing the Channel is up this year. As of 11 November, 32,900 people had crossed in 2024. In the whole of 2023, 29,437 people came to the UK in small boats. The closing of the Sumitomo Rubber USA tire plant on Sheridan Drive could have another casualty: a water project the Town of Tonawanda has explored for the past eight years. The town was working with Sumitomo and two other companies on a plan for a new system to carry raw water to industrial businesses in the River Road corridor that rely on this resource. The potential project would bypass the former Huntley generating station, which currently supplies this untreated water to the neighboring Sumitomo, Evonik Active Oxygens and 3M plants. Sumitomo and Evonik had agreed to pay for a study into the cost and design of a new supply system. But last weeks news that the tire-maker would shut down its factory throws the future of the towns raw-water project up in the air. It changes the project. In all likelihood, its not going to be the same project that it was before. So weve got to have sit-down meetings with Evonik and 3M, the other players in the project, and see where everybody stands, Tonawanda Supervisor Joseph Emminger said in an interview. This uncertainty comes as Sumitomo stirred up concerns last week when it shut off access to the water that passes through its plant to the 3M facility. Local officials feared this decision was tied to the plant closing, but Sumitomo insists it was a pre-planned, temporary step required for system maintenance. Either way, the access cutoff highlights the importance of raw water to the remaining industrial customers in this part of the town. Businesses along Tonawandas River Road corridor have for a century relied on raw water pulled in from the Niagara River as a coolant in the manufacturing process. This water is far cheaper than treated water that is safe for drinking. GM and DuPont, which also have manufacturing facilities there, have their own intake tunnels. Sumitomo, 3M and Evonik, formerly known as PeroxyChem, get this untreated water from connections that pass through the former Huntley generating station. Sumitomo and Evonik have direct access through Huntley, while 3Ms raw water comes through Sumitomo, Emminger said. Tonawanda pushes ahead with Huntley takeover as court fight drags on The Town Board on Monday night voted to hire a company to perform an appraisal of the Huntley property's value a key step in determining how much Tonawanda must pay NRG Energy if and when it takes control of the riverfront parcel. The town also has interviewed three developers that are interested in reviving the Huntley site, which closed eight years ago. Huntley owner NRG Energy shut down the coal-burning power plant in 2016, but the company continues to sell raw water to its industrial neighbors. Town officials have suspected for years that this ongoing source of revenue explains why NRG has not moved quickly to sell the former Huntley plant. NRG officials have denied that is the case. In 2016, the town hired a consultant, GHD, to assess whether it made sense to expand the pumping and transmission system at Tonawandas water treatment plant to carry raw water to the industrial customers nearby. GHD pulled together a conceptual design and detailed how much it would cost to construct and operate the system and how much revenue the town could expect to take in from operating it. Town officials never moved forward with the plan that, as of 2018, was estimated to cost $27 million to build. Industry built Tonawanda. Sumitomo closing is latest blow to blue-collar town that vows to push on Today, many of Tonawanda's industrial employers have shut their doors, or shrunk their work forces, and Sumitomo's closing is only the latest gut punch to this working-class community. Instead, in 2021, the town hired GHD a second time, this time to review the use of DuPonts system to carry raw water to the other factories and to update the 2016 study. Again, the town didnt act, but kept discussing the raw-water supply issues with Sumitomo Rubber USA and the other companies. Currently, SRUSA (inclusive of 3M) and Evonik continue to express interest in having the town become their raw water service provider, GHD wrote in an April letter to Michael Kessler, the towns water resources director. The companies agreed to cover the $126,700 cost of a GHD-led study now focused on expanding Evoniks raw-water system. Tonawanda considers drastic measures to keep cheap water supply from drying up Tonawanda may use eminent domain to take over the former Huntley Power Plant to ensure a cheap water supply, but its not a long-term Evonik and Sumitomo would split the cost of the analysis. Evoniks peak demand is 15 million gallons per day, and Sumitomos peak demand including what flows through to 3M is 6 million gallons per day, GHDs letter stated. Evonik would pay $90,000, or 71% of the study cost, and Sumitomo would pay $36,700, or 29%, according to the agreement approved by the Town Board in August. The plan GHD is studying would see raw water flow through Huntley to Evonik and then on to Sumitomo and 3M. The parties would need to upgrade the existing Evonik pumping stations, which date to the 1940s, and construct a 750-foot-long connection between the pumping stations at Evonik and Sumitomo. The project hinged on the town gaining control of the Huntley raw-water system through eminent domain. NRG has fought this effort in court, but Emminger has expressed confidence that the town will succeed. We want to hit the ground running when we end up with the property, Emminger said after the August board vote. And this is a much needed step to ensure that our local industries, which employ over 2,000 people, will get the raw water that they need to operate their plants and protect their jobs. Plan to bring water to Tonawanda industries gets $5.5 million start When the nearly century-old Huntley Station power plant closed in 2016, nearby industries along the River Road corridor in the Town of Tonawanda were left scrambling to find other sources for the nearly 19 million gallons in untreated water they received from the plant every day to use as coolants in their manufacturing processes. The plants closure also blew The agreement called for GHD to finish its study by the end of the year. Sumitomo had expressed consistent interest in participating in a new raw-water system, Emminger said last week. That is another reason it was so shocking to learn of the decision to shut down the tire plant, which employed 1,550 workers, the town supervisor said. Weve been in talks with them on our raw water project, and theyve been pushing it more than anybody, Emminger said. Theyve been pushing for the project. So, yeah, this came out of left field for us. A company representative on Monday said Sumitomo would pay the $36,700 it had committed to the raw-water study. But it is not clear whether the project can move forward without Sumitomos participation, Emminger said. Is it economically viable for Evonik? Is it economically viable for for 3M? I dont know that, he said. Because the cost may be the same for the project, but now, instead of being shared amongst three people, its going to be shared among two, right? Tonawanda considers $27 million project to supply water to businesses near Huntley The closing of the Huntley Power Plant is threatening to put a plug on 19 million gallons of raw water that several local industries get every day. For nearly a century, the coal-fueled Huntley Power Plant generated electrical power and provided the untreated water from the river to neighboring manufacturers like PeroxyChem, tire maker Sumitomo and 3M O-Cell-Sponge for free or Sumitomos move to shut off 3Ms raw-water access brought this issue into stark relief. Local and state officials learned what had happened Friday morning and feared it was a permanent move. Emminger and others said they were worried about the financial effect it would have on the 3M plant, where the company produces O-Cel-O and Scotch-Brite brand sponges. Town and state representatives reached out to Sumitomo through its local representatives for clarity. The company said the shutoff was done to allow for required maintenance on the raw-water system, and it wasnt connected to the plant closing. Sumitomo informed 3M of the service interruption Oct. 16 and received assurances that 3M could temporarily rely on potable water during the maintenance period, expected to last one or two weeks, according to Sumitomo. However, Sumitomo did not say how long the shutoff would last. A representative said the company is working to set up a meeting with 3M to discuss the situation further. A 3M spokesperson declined comment for this article. Justin Welby has resigned as Archbishop of Canterbury over his failure to deal with the matter of serial sex abuser John Smyth. But as the search begins for his replacement, the choice has relevance well beyond the 984,000 practising members of the Church of England, or even the 85 million who belong to the worldwide Anglican community. The Archbishop of Canterbury has for centuries been a significant political figure, and Welby redefined the role in a post-Brexit era. But at a time of huge political change and uncertainty, the next incumbent has the potential to be the last head of the Church to lead the lords spiritual in parliament. open image in gallery The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, announced his resignation last week ( PA Wire ) Constitutional position The Archbishop of Canterbury is not the Anglican equivalent of the Pope in the Catholic Church, because the monarch is the official head of the Church of England. But that does not mean the position does not hold considerable power. In effect, the holder is the most senior cleric, not just in the state Church but also within the worldwide Anglican Communion. Most importantly, though, he sits as of right in the House of Lords as one of 26 bishops known as the lords spiritual. This gives him a powerful platform from which to influence British politics and public life, well beyond religious matters. open image in gallery The Bishop of Newcastle, Helen-Ann Hartley, broke ranks to suggest that Welby should step down ( AFP/Getty ) Future of bishops in parliament This appointment comes at a very uncertain time for the Church of England, which is currently beset by scandal surrounding the John Smyth case and a crisis in safeguarding. On top of this, the rapidly dwindling size of its church congregations has given rise to serious questions about its relevance. But the biggest question is whether the Church should maintain the medieval right to send its bishops to the House of Lords. The decision by Labour to get rid of the last hereditary peers leaves an obvious question about the status of the lords spiritual. While Labour resisted ejecting them this time round, it is interesting that the push to end the tradition came from the Tories, the party that at one time could be relied on to support their continued place in parliament. As former Tory defence secretary Gavin Williamson, who pushed for them to be removed, recently noted, Iran is the only other state to give clerics an automatic role in the legislature. The next Archbishop of Canterbury is going to have to justify the continued existence of the lords spiritual. Some would argue that in regard to ethical issues such as assisted dying, with Kim Leadbeaters bill currently the subject of intense discussion in parliament there is a greater need than ever for bishops to provide a moral voice. Others would question why their religious views are being given priority. open image in gallery The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, proposed by Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, will be debated at the end of the month ( PA Wire ) Welbys legacy Welby used his position to great effect before his resignation, and became an important figure in British political life. After the referendum in 2016, the archbishop became a leading critic of Brexit and a supporter of remaining in the EU. Further, he led the bishops in making the moral case against the Tory governments draconian anti-migrant legislation, and was fiercely opposed to the Rwanda scheme. Welby stood up for workers rights when Rishi Sunak tried to bring in legislation to restrain the trade unions. He also pronounced on Boris Johnsons lack of morality during the Partygate episode. open image in gallery Canterbury was a major pilgrimage centre in medieval times because one of its archbishops, Thomas Becket, had been murdered at the altar by assassins encouraged by King Henry II. This 13th-century image depicts the event ( Unknown author/Wikipedia ) Not the only turbulent priest Welby was particularly outspoken on politics more so than his immediate predecessors but there is a long history of Archbishops of Canterbury being at the forefront of the political debate. The most famous turbulent priest was Thomas Becket, appointed for political reasons by Henry II in 1162 and then infamously murdered by the Kings supporters in 1170 for opposing him. He was later made a saint. Stephen Langton, 1207-1228, was the driving force behind the introduction of Magna Carta, the first document to enshrine rights. Thomas Cranmer, 1533-1555, was arguably historys first Brexiteer, arranging the break with Rome for Henry VIII. He was burnt at the stake by the Catholic Queen Mary. William Laud, 1633-1645, an ardent supporter of King Charles I in the civil war, was executed by parliament. William Howley, 1828-1848, led opposition to opening up the electoral franchise in the Great Reform Act of 1832. Cosmo Lang, 1928-1942, was partly responsible for the forced abdication of Edward VIII over his desire to marry a divorcee. open image in gallery The King with bishop Graham Usher, one of the favourites to succeed Welby ( PA Wire ) How will the next archbishop be chosen? A Crown Nominations Commission (CNC) will be established to identify and submit the name of a preferred candidate to the prime minister, who is constitutionally responsible for advising the King on the appointment. The CNC comprises a chair appointed by the prime minister, a bishop elected by the House of Bishops, the Archbishop of York, three representatives elected from the Diocese of Canterbury, six representatives (three clergy and three lay) elected by the General Synod, and five representatives from other churches in the Anglican Communion (one each from Africa, the Americas, the Middle East and Asia, Oceania, and Europe). Who could it be? If the appointment were to come from the next generation within the Church, and be based on integrity, then the current Bishop of Newcastle, Helen-Ann Hartley, 51, would be the favourite. She was the only one to break ranks and insist that Welby and others resign. She has also led the way on LGBT+ rights in the Church. But, for those same reasons, she is now unlikely to be given the role. The Church will have a choice between a status quo candidate, one who can speak on political matters, or someone who wants to bring the Church into the 21st century. It seems that another woman, the Bishop of Chelmsford, Dr Guli Francis-Dehqani, is among the frontrunners. Having fled Iran when the ayatollahs took over, she has an interesting backstory, and is more qualified than some to pronounce on some of the great crises of the current day in the Middle East, as well as on the topic of migration. Graham Usher, the Bishop of Norwich, was Bishop Hartleys ally in the LGBT+ modernisation process, and is now another of the favourites. Martyn Snow, the Bishop of Leicester, is another contender. He took the knee for George Floyd, but is less liberal on same-sex couples, having abstained on the crucial reforms. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Joe Biden on Sunday became the first sitting American president to set foot in the Amazon rainforest, as incoming Trump administration seems poised to scale back the U.S. commitment to combating climate change. The massive Amazon, which is about the size of Australia, stores huge amounts of the worlds carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas driving climate change, even as the worlds largest tropical rainforest is rapidly deforested. Biden is expected to be taken over a stretch of the rainforest where he would get a good view of the shallowing of waterways, fire damage and a wildlife refuge. Hes also expected to get a peek at where the Rio Negro and Amazon Rivers meet. He will then meet local and indigenous leaders and visit an Amazonian museum as he looks to highlight his commitment to the preservation of the region. His administration announced plans last year for a $500 million contribution to the Amazon Fund, the most significant international cooperation effort to preserve the rainforest, primarily financed by Norway. So far, the U.S. government said it has provided $50 million, and the White House announced Sunday an additional $50 million contribution to the fund. Its significant for a sitting president to visit the Amazon. ... This shows a personal commitment from the president, said Suely Araujo, former head of the Brazilian environmental protection agency and public policy coordinator with the nonprofit Climate Observatory. That said, we cant expect concrete results from this visit." She doubts that a single penny will go to the Amazon Fund once Donald Trump is back in the White House. The incoming Trump administration is highly unlikely to prioritize the Amazon or anything related to climate change. The Republican president-elect already said he would again pull out of the Paris agreement, a global pact forged to avert the threat of catastrophic climate change, after Biden recommitted to the agreement. Trump has cast climate change as a hoax and said he will eliminate energy efficiency regulations by the Biden administration. Still, the Biden White House on Sunday announced a series of new efforts aimed at bolstering the Amazon and stemming the impact of climate change. Among the actions is the launch of a finance coalition that looks to spur at least $10 billion in public and private investment for land restoration and bioeconomy-related projects by 2030, and a $37.5 million loan to the organization Mombak Gestora de Recursos Ltda. to support the large-scale planting of native tree species on degraded grasslands in Brazil. Biden is also set to sign a U.S. proclamation designating Nov. 17 as International Conservation Day, and will highlight in remarks during the visit that the U.S. is on track to reach $11 billion in spending on international climate financing in 2024, a six-fold increase from when he started his term. The Amazon is home to Indigenous communities and 10% of Earths biodiversity. It also regulates moisture across South America. About two-thirds of the Amazon lies within Brazil, and scientists say its devastation poses a catastrophic threat to the planet. The forest has been suffering two years of historic drought that have dried up waterways, isolated thousands of riverine communities and hindered riverine dwellers ability to fish. It's also made way for wildfires that have burned an area larger than Switzerland and choked cities near and far with smoke. When Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva took office last year, he signaled a shift in environmental policy from his predecessor, far-right Jair Bolsonaro. Bolsonaro prioritized agribusiness expansion over forest protection and weakened environmental agencies, prompting deforestation to surge to a 15-year-high. Lula has pledged zero deforestation by 2030, though his term runs through the end of 2026. Forest loss in Brazils Amazon dropped by 30.6% in the 12 months through July from a year earlier, bringing deforestation to its lowest level in nine years, according to official data released last week. In that 12-month span, the Amazon lost 6,288 square kilometers (2,428 square miles), roughly the size of the U.S. state of Delaware. But that data fails to capture the surge of destruction this year, which will only be included in next years reading. Despite the success in curbing Amazon deforestation, Lulas government has been criticized by environmentalists for backing projects that could harm the region, such as paving a highway that cuts from an old-growth area and could encourage logging, oil drilling near the mouth of the Amazon River and building a railway to transport soy to Amazonian ports. Biden is making the Amazon visit as part of a six-day trip to South America, the first to the continent of his presidency. He traveled from Lima, Peru, where he took part in the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit and met with Chinese President Xi Jinping. After his stop in Manaus, he was heading to Rio de Janeiro for this year's Group of 20 leaders summit. ___ Sa Pessoa reported from Sao Paulo, and Long from Washington. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Boy Scouts of America has auctioned off some of its famous Norman Rockwell paintings from its collection and raised over $3.7 million towards compensation owed to those who were sexually abused while in scouting. The first batch of 25 paintings that sold on Friday are among over 300 from the Boy Scouts that will go under the hammer at Heritage Auctions in Dallas over the next few years. The Boy Scouts filed for bankruptcy in 2020 and auctioning off the art is a bid to survive the barrage of sexual abuse claims. Fridays auction included five of the nearly 60 works by Rockwell that are part of the collection. With the standard buyers premium added to the final hammer price, the 25 works sold for over $4.6 million. Rockwells painting To Keep Myself Physically Strong shows a Cub Scout standing on a chair to measure the chest of his older brother, a Boy Scout who has taped his fitness record to his bedroom wall. It sold for over $1.1 million, including the buyers premium. Barbara Houser, a retired bankruptcy judge overseeing the survivors settlement trust, has said over 82,000 people filed abuse claims during the bankruptcy case, and of those, over 64,000 have filled out a detailed questionnaire to assert their claims. open image in gallery Barbara Houser is overseeing the survivors settlement trust ( AP ) Houser said that she was grateful to those who participated in the auction, noting that the proceeds play an integral part in acknowledging decades of silent pain that survivors suffered. The $2.4 billion bankruptcy plan allowed the organization to continue operating while it compensated survivors. The plan went into effect last year. In addition to the art, other contributions to the survivors' settlement trust are coming from sources including insurers and the sale of Boy Scout properties. Many of the works being sold are as interwoven into American life as the 114-year-old organization itself, having been featured on magazine covers, calendars and even used to sell war bonds. J.C. Leyendeckers painting Weapons for Liberty, which depicts a Boy Scout clutching a sword in front of a flag-draped, shield-wielding depiction of Lady Liberty, sold for $312,500, including the buyers premium. It was featured on a cover of The Saturday Evening Post in 1918 and was adapted as a poster to sell World War I bonds. The Boy Scouts announced this year that it is rebranding to Scouting America, a change intended to signal the organizations commitment to inclusivity. The group now welcomes girls, as well as gay youth and leaders. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A California man who stabbed his former classmate 28 times and buried him in a park has been jailed for life without parole for the hate crime. Samuel Woodward, 27, was convicted earlier this year of murder as a hate crime for the killing of Blaze Bernstein, a gay, Jewish college sophomore. He was sentenced on Friday at the Orange County Superior Court but did not appear due to illness. Bernstein, 19, was a student at the University of Pennsylvania and went missing while visiting his family in Newport Beach in January 2018. On the night Bernstein went missing, the pair, who attended the same high school, had gone to a park in Lake Forest. After Bernstein missed a dentist appointment the next day and his parents failed to make contact with him, the authorities launched an exhaustive search. His family scoured his social media accounts and saw he had last communicated with Woodward on Snapchat, they told authorities. Days after the teenager went missing, his body was found in a shallow grave in the park. He had been repeatedly stabbed in the face and neck. Prosecutors said Woodward was affiliated with the violent anti-gay, neo-Nazi extremist group Atomwaffen Division, while Woodwards lawyer, Ken Morrison, said his client didnt plan to kill anyone or hate Bernstein and faced challenging personal relationships due to a long-undiagnosed autism spectrum disorder. open image in gallery Gideon Bernstein and Jeanne Pepper Bernstein, parents of Blaze Bernstein, speak during a press conference after Samuel Woodward was sentenced to life without parole at Orange County Superior Court ( AP ) The jury found him guilty in July after a three-month-long trial, which suffered a series of delays. During the trial the court heard that the pair, who both attended Orange County School of the Arts, connected via a dating app in the months before the murder. Woodward testified that he picked up Bernstein and took him to the nearby park, where he repeatedly stabbed Bernstein after trying to grab a cellphone he feared had been used to photograph him. His defense attorney argued that Woodward was confused about his sexuality after growing up in a politically conservative and devout Catholic family where his father openly criticized homosexuality. But the prosecution said that Woodward had repeatedly targeted gay men online by reaching out to them and abruptly breaking off contact, while keeping a hateful, profanity-laced journal of his actions. Authorities said they also found a black Atomwaffen mask with traces of blood, a folding knife with a bloodied blade and a host of anti-gay, antisemitic and hate group materials in a search of his familys home. Judge Kimberly Menninger said there was no evidence that Woodward was remorseful for the crime and called the case a true tragedy. Unfortunately for the court and for the defendant, Ive never seen any evidence of this up to this point in time, Menninger told the court. Lets be clear: This was a hate crime, Bernsteins mother, Jeanne Pepper, told the court. Samuel Woodward ended my sons life because my son was Jewish and gay. She said she takes solace in Woodward never getting out of custody and that while he rots in prison, we will be here on the outside, celebrating the life of Blaze. Unfortunately for Mr. Woodward, the hate that fueled his thoughts was super disconcerting to this court and unfortunately reflects a larger societal ill thats currently raging throughout this country, the judge added. Dozens of Bernsteins relatives and friends sat in the courtroom. Many wore T-shirts reading Blaze it Forward, a slogan for a campaign to commit acts of kindness in his name following his death. The Associated Press contributed to this report. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Sean Diddy Combs has been accused by prosecutors of using jailmates phones from inside prison to blackmail potential witnesses ahead of his high-profile sex-trafficking trial. The music mogul allegedly called up family members, urging them to reach out to potential victims and create narratives and made "relentless efforts" to "corruptly influence witness testimony, court documents claimed. Prosecutors made the allegations as part of a motion filed on Friday in which they urged a Manhattan judge to reject Combs latest $50 million bail proposal. The defendant has shown repeatedly even while in custody that he will flagrantly and repeatedly flout rules in order to improperly impact the outcome of his case. The defendant has shown, in other words, that he cannot be trusted to abide by rules or conditions, prosecutors wrote in a submission that contained redactions. Prosecutors said Combs, 55, began breaking rules almost as soon as he was detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn after his September arrest, and that it could be inferred from his behavior that he had attempted to blackmail victims and witnesses. open image in gallery Combs, who founded Bad Boy Records, has pleaded not guilty to charges that he coerced and abused women for years with the aid of a network of associates and employees Such attempts were made using other inmates telephone accounts, and using three-way calls to speak to people who are not on his approved contacts list, according to the documents. Prosecutors also claimed that Combs had encouraged those he contacted to create marketing strategies and social media campaigns including one timed around his birthday to sway public opinion, ahead of the trial. He has encouraged his children to post a video to their social media accounts showing them gathered to celebrate his birthday, they said. Afterward, he monitored the analytics, including audience engagement, from the jail and explicitly discussed with his family how to ensure that the video had his desired effect on potential jury members in this case," the filing added. The government also alleged Combs during other calls made clear his intention to anonymously publish information that he thought would help his defense against the charges. The defendants efforts to obstruct the integrity of this proceeding also includes relentless efforts to contact potential witnesses, including victims of his abuse who could provide powerful testimony against him, prosecutors wrote. open image in gallery Prosecutors say Combs began breaking rules almost as soon as he was detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) Lawyers for Combs did not immediately respond to requests for comment from the Associated Press. The mogul, who founded Bad Boy Records, has pleaded not guilty to charges that he coerced and abused women for years with the aid of a network of associates and employees, while silencing victims through blackmail and violence, including kidnapping, arson and physical beatings. Two judges have concluded he is a danger to the community and a risk to flee. His lawyers recently made a third request for bail after the rejection of two previous attempts, including a $50 million bail proposal. In the request, they cited changed circumstances, including new evidence, which they said made it sensible to release Combs so he can better prepare for his May 5 trial. But prosecutors said defense lawyers created their latest bail proposal using evidence prosecutors turned over to them and the new material was already known to defense lawyers when they made previous bail applications. In their submission to a judge, prosecutors said Combs behavior in jail shows he must remain incarcerated. The Associated Press contributed to this report The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A woman who allegedly pretended to be a nurse in Los Angeles, California has been arrested after she reportedly worked for a month in a hospital tending to patients. The Burbank Police Department announced on Thursday that Amanda Leeann Porter, 44, of Virginia, allegedly impersonated a registered nurse at Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center where she reportedly treated dozens of patients. Porter does not have a nursing license. She is currently on federal probation for a fraud conviction in her home state of Virginia, according to KTLA, citing police. She allegedly used a false identity to gain employment with the Catholic hospital in April. Between April 8 and May 8, she saw approximately 60 patients before her co-workers discovered that she was allegedly impersonating a nurse who lived in another state. Porter managed to collect two paychecks before she was fired from the hospital. Amanda Leeann Porter, 44, of Virginia, is shown in a mugshot on November 14, 2024. Porter, who does not have a nursing license, impersonated real nurses at several Southern California hospitals, according to investigators ( Burbank Police Department ) This isn't the first time she's allegedly impersonated a nurse; she reportedly did the same thing at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital in Santa Clarita. Investigators believe she has impersonated nurses at several hospitals. In early October, we learned that an employee falsified documents to obtain employment with our hospital, the Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital said in a statement to NBC Los Angeles. Once discovered, we took immediate and appropriate action, including terminating her employment and reporting to regulatory and law enforcement authorities. We do not have any indication the quality of care patients received was compromised." Both hospitals told KTLA that Porter was fired immediately after they discovered her alleged impersonation. Neither hospital said she rendered inadequate care during her time under their employ. In both instances she working under probationary conditions and was supervised by qualified training nurses. She is now facing charges of identity theft, false impersonation, and grand theft, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office. "It is further alleged that Porter carried out the offenses with planning, sophistication, and professionalism," the district attorney said in a statement. "It also is alleged that Porter took advantage of a position of trust and confidence to commit the offenses." Porter was arrested on November 7 and is currently being held without bail at the LA County Central Regional Detention Facility. Her next court appearance is scheduled for December 2 in Burbank. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy An 18-year-old was shot by police in Florida following a sting-operation orchestrated by the mother of a 13-year-old he was allegedly sending inappropriate text messages to. Cerry Banks arranged to meet the child at a Popeyes fast food restaurant in Jacksonville on November 11, where he was confronted by the mother who had learned of the relationship the night before, authorities said. According to Jacksonville Sheriffs Office Chief of Investigations Alan Parker, Banks was not that smart and had been unaware that he had been conversing with the mother while arranging the meet. Upon arrival Banks brandished a gun that was concealed in his underwear and told the woman When you hear the shots tonight, you know whats up, Parker told reporters. The family retreated into the Popeyes where law enforcement was called. Responding to the report of an aggravated assault, officers arrived around 30 minutes later. As our officers arrived on scene, the suspect was still standing by the business he had plenty of time to leave, Parker said. open image in gallery After Banks threatened her, the mother and her family took shelter inside the Popeyes restaurant ( Google Maps ) Banks was reportedly given multiple verbal commands to turn around and show his hands, but ran round the corner of the restaurant. As one officer followed him, he observed Banks pulling the pistol from his waistband. After multiple warnings and commands to drop the weapon the officer opened fire, shooting Banks multiple times, including in the hand and leg. Banks continued to flee, dropping the gun, Parker said. After a short pursuit, which included assistance from a K-9 Unit, Banks was apprehended without further incident. He was taken to a local hospital for treatment and is believed to be in a stable condition. We like for parents to let us handle these situations, Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters told reporters. Its protective in nature and moms and dads are going to do what they feel they need to do to protect their kids. And we cant really blame them for doing it but we do ask that they allow us to handle the situations. But I cant blame [the mother.] Parker added: You never know what someones going to do when their backs against the wall. Its probably better to leave it to the professionals. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy On the last night of their lives, Jagdish Patel, his wife and their two young children tried to slip into the US across a near-empty stretch of the Canadian border. Wind chills reached minus 36 Fahrenheit (minus 38 Celsius) that night in January 2022 as the family from India set out on foot to meet a waiting van. They walked amid vast farm fields and bulky snowdrifts, navigating in the black of an almost-moonless night. The driver, waiting in northern Minnesota, messaged his boss: Make sure everyone is dressed for the blizzard conditions, please. Coordinating things in Canada, federal prosecutors say, was Harshkumar Patel, an experienced smuggler nicknamed Dirty Harry. On the US side was Steve Shand, the driver recently recruited by Patel at a casino near their Florida homes, prosecutors say. The two men, whose trial is scheduled to start Monday, are accused of being part of a sophisticated human smuggling operation feeding a fast-growing population of Indians living illegally in the US. Both have pleaded not guilty. Over the five weeks the two worked together, documents filed by prosecutors allege they spoke often about the bitter cold as they smuggled five groups of Indians over that quiet stretch of border. 16 degrees cold as hell, Shand messaged during an earlier trip. They going to be alive when they get here? On the last trip, on January 19, 2022, Shand was to pick up 11 more Indian migrants, including the Patels. Only seven survived. Canadian authorities found the Patels later that morning, dead from the cold. In Jagdish Patel's frozen arms was the body of his 3-year-old son, Dharmik, wrapped in a blanket. open image in gallery An image released by the U.S. Attorneys Office shows how the migrants who survived the crossing were terribly inadequately dressed The narrow streets of Dingucha, a quiet village in the western Indian state of Gujarat, are spattered with ads to move overseas. Make your dream of going abroad come true, one poster says, listing three tantalizing destinations: Canada. Australia. USA. This is where the familys deadly journey began. Jagdish Patel, 39, grew up in Dingucha. He and his wife, Vaishaliben, who was in her mid-30s, lived with his parents, raising their 11-year-old daughter, Vihangi, and Dharmik. (Patel is a common Indian surname and they are unrelated to Harshkumar Patel.) The couple were schoolteachers, local news reports say. The family was fairly well off by local standards, living in a well-kept, two-story house with a front patio and a wide veranda. It wasnt a lavish life, said Vaibhav Jha, a local reporter who spent days in the village. But there was no urgent need, no desperation. Experts say illegal immigration from India is driven by everything from political repression to a dysfunctional American immigration system that can take years, if not decades, to navigate legally. But much is rooted in economics, and how even low-wage jobs in the West can ignite hopes for a better life. Those hopes have changed Dingucha. open image in gallery An aerial view of Dingucha village in Gandhinagar, India ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) Today, so many villagers have gone overseas legally and otherwise that blocks of homes stand vacant and the social media feeds of those who remain are filled with old neighbors showing off houses and cars. That drives even more people to leave. There was so much pressure in the village, where people grew up aspiring to the good life, Jha said. Smuggling networks were glad to help, charging fees that could reach $90,000 per person. In Dingucha, Jha said, many families afforded that by selling farmland. Satveer Chaudhary is a Minneapolis-based immigration attorney who has helped migrants exploited by motel owners, many of them Gujaratis. Smugglers with ties to the Gujarati business community have built an underground network, he said, bringing in workers willing to do low- or even no-wage jobs. Their own community has taken advantage of them, Chaudhary said. The pipeline of illegal immigration from India has long existed but has increased sharply along the U.S.-Canada border. The U.S. Border Patrol arrested more than 14,000 Indians on the Canadian border in the year ending Sept. 30, which amounted to 60% of all arrests along that border and more than 10 times the number two years ago. By 2022, the Pew Research Center estimates there were more than 725,000 Indians living illegally in the U.S., behind only Mexicans and El Salvadorans. open image in gallery This combination image shows left to right; undated photo released by the Sherburne County Sheriffs Office shows Harshkumar Patel in Elk River, Minn., and undated photo released by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement shows Steve Shand. (AP Photo) In India, investigating officer Dilip Thakor said media attention had led to the arrest of three men in the Patel case, but hundreds of such cases dont even reach the courts. With so many Indians trying to get to the US, the smuggling networks see no need to warn off customers. They tell people that its very easy to cross into the US. They never tell them of the dangers involved, Thakor said. US prosecutors allege Patel and Shand were part of a sprawling operation, with people to scout for business in India, acquire Canadian student visas, arrange transportation and smuggle migrants into the U.S., mostly via Washington state or Minnesota. On Monday, at the federal courthouse in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, Patel, 29, and Shand, 50, will each face four counts related to human smuggling. Patels attorney, Thomas Leinenweber, told The Associated Press his client came to America to escape poverty and build a better life and now stands unjustly accused of participating in this horrible crime." Shand's attorney's did not return calls seeking comment. Prosecutors say Shand told investigators that Patel paid him about $25,000 for the five trips. His final passengers, though, never made it. open image in gallery Road signage is posted just outside of Emerson, Manitoba, By 3 am on January 19, 2022, the 11 Indian migrants had spent hours wandering in gusting snow and brutal cold trying to find Shand. Many were in jeans and rubber work boots. None wore serious winter clothing. Shand, though, was stuck. Prosecutors allege he had been heading to the pickup spot in a rented 15-passenger van when he drove into a ditch roughly a half-mile (0.8 kilometers) from the border. Eventually, two migrants stumbled across the van. Sometime later, a passing pipeline company worker pulled the vehicle from the ditch. Soon after that, a US Border Patrol agent, on watch for migrants after boot prints were found near the border, pulled over Shand. Shand repeatedly insisted there was no one else outside, even as five more desperate Indians wandered to the vehicle from the fields, including one going in and out of consciousness. They had been walking for more than 11 hours. There were no children among the migrants, but one man had a backpack filled with toys, childrens clothes and diapers. He said a family of four Indians asked him to hold it, because they had to carry their young son. Sometime in the night they had become separated. Hours later, the Patels' bodies were found just inside Canada, in a field near where the migrants had crossed into the U.S. Jagdish was holding Dharmik, with daughter Vihangi nearby. Vaishaliben was a short walk away. Hemant Shah, an Indian-born businessman living in Winnipeg, some 70 miles (110 kilometers) north of where the migrants were found, helped organize a virtual prayer service for the Patels. He's accustomed to hard winters and cant fathom the suffering they endured. "How could these people have even thought about going and crossing the border? Shah said. Greed, he said, had taken four lives: There was no humanity. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy An Atlanta mother will spend the rest of her life in prison after killing her toddlers by placing them inside an oven. In October 2017, Lamora Williams called 911 to report she had found her two young boys dead in her home after leaving them with a caregiver. But, investigators and prosecutors found evidence that indicated she killed two-year-old KeYounte Penn and one-year-old JaKarter Williams. She was convicted on several charges, including murder, and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole plus 35 years on Friday, Fox 5 Atlanta reports. Williams pleaded not guilty and has maintained her innocence. The investigation began after Williams, then 24, first called the police seven years ago to report her children were dead. "When I came in, the stove was laying on my son, on my youngest sons head, and my other son was laid out on the floor with his brains laid out on the floor. I dont know what to do. I just came home from work," Williams told the 911 operator, according to Fox 5 Atlanta. open image in gallery Lamora Williams called the police after her children died, claiming she found them that way after returning home. However, she was later convicted of killing them ( Fulton County Sheriffs Office ) Can you please help me? she went on to ask the dispatcher, according to Law and Crime. Like, can you please tell me, like, I dont want to get locked up because this is not my fault. I had just came home from work. When officers arrived, they found the toddler and baby. They reported the children had burn marks. A medical examiner disagreed that they were burns and said their heads were likely placed inside a tipped-over oven. The examiners autopsy report stated they suffered thermal changes from dry heat and changes from prolonged exposure to heat, Law and Crime reports. It would require an extensive amount of time to get to this degree, the autopsy report reads. However, prosecutors used the responding officerss report in court instead as they argued Williams placed her children inside the oven, Law and Crime reports. Around the same time Williams called the police, another 911 call came in this time, from childrens father Jameel Penn. I just received a call from my childs mother thatmytwo dead babies, my sons are dead in an apartment, Penn told the 911 operator, according to Law and Crime. She video called me and I seen it. I really think they are dead. Penn later told local outlet WSB-TV the scene was like a real horror movie. The Atlanta Police Department went on to arrest Williams, arguing she knowingly and intentionally killed the children by placing them in an oven and turning it on. Williams maintained her innocence. Williamss mother, Brenda, said her daughter had struggled with mental health issues and that she needed to be placed on suicide watch while in custody. "I just came from the jail, I also let them know, to put her on suicide watch because shes gonna kill herself," she told WSB-TV in 2017 soon after Williamss arrest. Williamss sister Tabitha Hollingsworth told the same outlet the childrens deaths were preventable. "This was something we saw that could possibly happen, Hollingsworth said. Shes had issues from a baby. Issues my mom tried to address with the state of Georgia. If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch. If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call the National Suicide Prevention Helpline on 1-800-273-TALK (8255). This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy US Health officials have confirmed the first case of a new form of mpox. The infected person had traveled to eastern Africa and was treated in Northern California upon return, according to the California Department of Public Health. Symptoms are improving and the risk to the public is low. Mpox is a rare disease caused by infection with a virus thats in the same family as the one that causes smallpox. It is endemic in parts of Africa, where people have been infected through bites from rodents or small animals. Earlier this year, scientists reported the emergence of a new form of mpox in Africa that was spread through close contact including through sex. It was first seen in eastern Congo. The new variant, known as Clade 1b, is mutating rapidly and proving difficult to control, scientists say. It appears to spread more easily, and was therefore declared as a global health emergency by the World Health Organization in Africa on August 15. More than 3,100 confirmed cases have been reported just since late September, according to the World Health Organization. The vast majority of them have been in three African countries Burundi, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Since then, cases of travelers with the new mpox form have been reported in Germany, India, Kenya, Sweden, Thailand, Zimbabwe, and the United Kingdom. open image in gallery Undated handout file photo of the the arms and torso of a patient who s skin displayed a number of lesions due to what had been an active case of mpox. ( PA Media ) Health officials earlier this month said the situation in Congo appears to be stabilizing. The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has estimated Congo needs at least 3 million mpox vaccines to stop the spread, and another 7 million vaccines for the rest of Africa. The current outbreak is different from the 2022 global outbreak of mpox where gay and bisexual men made up the vast majority of cases. What is Mpox and what are the symptoms? Mpox belongs to the same virus family as smallpox, but produces milder symptoms including fever, chills and body aches. Serious cases can lead to lesions on the face, hand, chest and genitals. The virus was first identified by scientists in 1958, when it was known as monkeypox after the outbreak of a pox-like disease in monkeys. Scientists later changed the name to Mpox for accuracy reasons, with experts suggesting the virus originated from rodents. The UK government lists the symptoms as: A skin rash with blisters, spots or ulcers that can appear anywhere on your body (including your genitals); fever; headaches, backache, and muscle aches; joint pains; swollen glands; shivering (chills) and exhaustion. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Elon Musk is looking for a few good "super high-IQ" volunteers to do the "tedious work" of gutting the federal government. Musk's Department of Government Efficiency whose acronym is DOGE is apparently recruiting unpaid volunteers from X, according to posts from the nascent agency. A post made by the department's account said it was looking for the "top 1 percent" of X applicants who have a "super high-IQ" and are "small-government revolutionaries" to work 80-plus hour weeks identifying allegedly wasteful government spending. Based on one of Musk's replies, it appears these super smart government gutters won't actually be paid for their work. "Indeed, this will be tedious work, make lots of enemies, & compensation is zero," Musk wrote. "What a great deal!" He ended the post with a crying laughing emoji, so it's unclear whether or not he was joking. Brian Hughes, a spokesman for Donald Trump's transition team, gave Business Insider a canned response when the outlet asked about Musk's new department. "As President Trump has said, Elon Musk is a genius, an innovator, and has literally made history by building creative, modern, and efficient systems," Hughes said. Trump tapped "gothic dark MAGA" Musk and failed GOP presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy to lead the new department. Elon Musk shakes Donald Trumps hand. Trump joked he cant get rid of the billionaire on Wednesday ( AFP via Getty Images ) There was a minor conflict of interest early on in the department's recruiting drive when users realized the only way to send a direct message to the DOGE account was by paying for a premium X account. That requirement has since been lifted so now any X genius with a desire to drain the federal government of funding can apply. Even still, there are plenty of questionable ethics issues surrounding Musk's involvement in the position; his SpaceX company holds billions of dollars in NASA contracts, and Tesla where he also serves as CEO benefits from government tax incentives for electric vehicles. It's also subject to auto safety regulations. Musk would be affected by regulation in the auto industry, the aeronautics industry, the emerging AI industry, and the world of social media. But he will, apparently, be an influential voice in determining which regulations need eliminated and which incentives need cut. Theres direct conflicts between his businesses and governments interest, Ann Skeet, the director of leadership ethics at Santa Clara Universitys Markkula Center, told the Associated Press. Hes now in a position to try and curry favor for those enterprises. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Nancy Pelosi is upsetting some Democratic lawmakers who are hoping she yields more power to younger party leaders, a new report reveals. Pelosi has been on a press tour in recent days, explaining why she think Democrats lost the White House and their majority in the Senate on Election Day. Just days after Kamala Harris lost the election, the former speaker suggested President Joe Biden should have dropped out of the race sooner to facilitate a proper primary process. "Had the president gotten out sooner, there may have been other candidates in the race," she told The New York Times. The anticipation was that, if the president were to step aside, that there would be an open primary. Pelosi also reportedly played a key role in pressuring Biden to exit the race after his poor performance in a debate against Donald Trump. Despite these rumors, Pelosi claimed in August that she did not call one person and did not lead a pressure campaign against him. open image in gallery Some Democratic lawmakers are encouraging former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, 84, to step out of the spotlight after she blamed President Joe Biden for the partys loss on Election Day ( REUTERS ) Now, Democratic lawmakers tell Axios they want the 84-year-old to step out of the spotlight and let younger leaders, like House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, take the reigns. "Hakeem has been tremendously graceful and respectful of her, but I dont think she is being respectful of him," an unnamed member of the Congressional Black Caucus told Axios. "I understand that this is a difficult transition for her, not being the leader, but she is not," the unnamed Congressional Black Caucus member added. "She needs to understand what her new role is. "She needs to take a seat," another unnamed Democratic lawmaker told Axios. Making scattershot comments is not just unhelpful, its damaging. A spokesperson for the former speaker told Axios she is immensely proud of Leader Hakeem Jeffries. open image in gallery House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries speaks at a press conference on November 15. Democratic lawmakers want former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi to step out of the spotlight and make way for younger leaders, like Jeffries, to be the face of the Democratic party, Axios reports ( EPA ) "We all should praise the excellent progress made by House Democrats under his leadership, the spokesperson said. The party is already gearing up for the 2028 race. Democratic National Committee members are preparing to draft a new order of states for the 2028 presidential primary, NBC News reports. Meanwhile, several Democrats are also already looking ahead to the 2028 primary as the party tries to rebuild after a devastating loss to President-elect Donald Trump. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, California Governor Gavin Newsom, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz are all names that are considered to be in the mix. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Joe Biden has authorised Ukraines use of long-range missiles to strike hundreds of miles inside Russia for the first time, according to reports. The decision marks a major policy shift and comes after Russia warned that Moscow would see the move to allow the use of US-made missiles as an escalation. With Biden leaving office in two months, president-elect Donald Trump has indicated he will limit American support for Ukraine and pledged end the war quickly once he takes office in January. But Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has campaigned for months to allow Ukraines military to use US weapons to hit Russian military targets far from its border, and retains important allies in both parties in Congress. He said Sunday evening that the strikes, if carried out, would "speak for themselves." But he did not confirm the authorization directly. "Today, many in the media are saying that we have received permission to take appropriate actions," he said. "But strikes are not made with words. Such things are not announced." A National Security Council spokesperson declined to comment when contacted by The Independent Sunday afternoon. Two unnamed senior US officials confirmed the change in policy to the Washington Post on Sunday. ATACMS rockets can strike targets nearly 200 miles away ( AP ) A source close to Downing Street said on Sunday that the office was monitoring the situation closely. The change follows Russias deployment of North Korean ground troops to supplement its own forces, a development that has caused alarm in Washington and Kyiv. One US official confirmed to the Post that the shift in policy was aimed at deterring further deployments of North Korean troops including units described as the countrys elite special forces The first deep strikes are likely to be carried out using ATACMS rockets, which have a range of up to 190 miles (306 km), according to the sources. While some US officials have expressed scepticism that allowing long-range strikes will change the wars overall trajectory, the decision could help Ukraine at a moment when Russian forces are making gains and possibly put Kyiv in a better negotiating position when and if ceasefire talks happen. Vladimir Dzhabarov, first deputy head of the Russian upper houses international affairs committee, warned the move would instead risk triggering World War Three, and vowed that Russia would respond. It is not clear if Trump will reverse Bidens decision when he takes office. Trump has long criticised the scale of financial and military aid to Ukraine and has vowed to end the war quickly, without explaining how. Richard Grenell, who was widely considered as an option for the Secretary of State job before it was snatched up by Marco Rubio, accused Biden on escalating the wars before he leaves office in a post on X. The president-elect has also repeatedly slammed the Biden administration for giving Kyiv tens of billions of dollars in aid. His election victory has Ukraines international backers worrying that any rushed settlement would mostly benefit Putin. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy At least seven people were killed and 19 injured after Russia unleashed its largest airstrike on Ukraine in months, targeting energy infrastructure as overnight temperatures begin to drop below freezing. Russian forces launched 120 missiles and 90 drones at Ukrainian territory, striking multiple targets on an already damaged energy system and causing widespread power cuts. Huge blasts rang across the capital of Kyiv as Ukrainian air defences were forced into action, with residents taking shelter in underground metro stations. Kyivs air force said it destroyed 104 of the 120 missiles and 42 Russian drones, but seven people died in the regions of Lviv, Mykolaiv, Odesa and Dnipropetrovsk according to Ukrainian authorities. Poland also scrambled its air force as a precaution to help protect its neighbour to the east. open image in gallery Emergency services tackle fire following Russian strikes ( EPA ) Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday that Ukraine is fighting a regime of absolute evil, and which understands no language but force. Writing on X the morning of the attacks, Mr Zelensky said: Efforts to address the consequences of the combined attack on our infrastructure in the Rivne, Lviv, Dnipropetrovsk, Volyn, and Odesa regions are ongoing. Russian terrorists are once again trying to intimidate us with cold and blackouts, repeating their actions and trying to get results from them. We need unity, the world needs unity. Only together can we stop this evil. DTEK, Ukraines largest energy provider, suffered severe damage to its power stations during the strikes. Maxim Timchenko, the companys CEO, said the attack highlights Ukraines need for additional air defence systems from our allies. Russias defence ministry said it launched a major strike on the energy facilities supplying Ukraines military-industrial complex. open image in gallery A woman reacts near the site of an airstrike in Odesa, southwestern Ukraine ( EPA ) There is not much information on the scale of the damage to Ukraines power grid a subject on which officials have often remained tight-lipped since Russias full-scale invasion in February 2022. Ukraines foreign minister, Andrii Sybiha, took a thinly veiled dig at German chancellor Olaf Scholz, who held a widely criticised phone call with Russian president Vladimir Putin on Friday. Writing on X following Sunday mornings attack, Mr Sybiha said: Russia launched one of the largest air attacks: drones and missiles against peaceful cities, sleeping civilians, critical infrastructure. This is war criminal Putins true response to all those who called and visited him recently. We need peace through strength, not appeasement. But Mr Scholz defended his decision to hold the phone call. He told Mr Putin that he cannot count on support from Germany, Europe and many others in the world waning. Donald Trumps re-election in the United States and his insistence that he will end the war soon will have significant implications for Europe, Mr Scholz said. In my view, it would not be a good idea if there were talks between the American and Russian presidents and the leader of an important European country was not also doing so, he said. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Joe Biden has sensationally granted Kyiv permission to use long-range missiles to strike targets deep within Russia, despite Vladimir Putin describing such a move as an act of war. The weapons are likely to be used in response to North Koreas decision to send thousands of troops to Russia in support of President Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine and comes after months of pressure from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky He argued the US ban had made it impossible for Ukraine to try to stop Russian attacks on its cities and electrical grids. We look closer at the weapons that could mark a turning point in the war. Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) rockets The first deep strikes are likely to be carried out using Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) rockets, which have a range of up to 190 miles (306 km), according to sources who revealed Bidens policy. ATACMS are a long-range guided missile that gives operational commanders the immediate firepower to win the deep battle. Produced by US global security and aerospace company Lockheed Martin, the missiles carry a 500lb (227kg) class blast fragmentation warhead. These missiles can reach up to 300km (186 miles) and are tough to intercept due to their high speed. The weapons are fitted with a specialised GPS system and carry cluster munitions. When fired, the clusters open in the air, releasing hundreds of bomblets rather than a single warhead. open image in gallery A Storm Shadow cruise missile is on display during the Paris Air Show ( AP ) Storm Shadow Until now the Storm Shadow missiles have been limited to Russian targets operating inside Ukraine, as well as in occupied Crimea. The missiles were likely used in the largest Ukrainian attack on the headquarters of Russia s Black Sea fleet last year at Sevastopol. The other missile being touted the British/French made Storm Shadow/SCALP-EG missile has a much longer estimated range of up to 550 km (340 miles). The UK has supplied Ukraine with Storm Shadows, but hasnt allowed Ukraine to use them against Russian territory. Manufacturer MBDA has said that the missile, which is fired from an aircraft, is designed to evade detection despite flying low after being launched. Powered by a turbo-jet engine, the 1,300kg Storm Shadow travels at speeds of more than 600mph, is just over five metres long and has a wingspan of three metres. After launch, the weapon, equipped with its own navigation system, descends to a low altitude to avoid detection before locking on to its target using an infra-red seeker. On final approach the missile climbs to a higher altitude to maximise the chances of hitting the target. open image in gallery (PA Graphics) ( PA Graphics ) What did Putin warn if West let Ukraine use long-range missiles Washingtons decision to let Ukraine strike deep into Russia with long-range U.S. missiles could lead to World War Three and will receive a swift response, Vladimir Dzhabarov, first deputy head of the Russian upper houses international affairs committee, said on Sunday, according to the TASS news agency. If Ukraine is allowed to use long-range Western-provided missiles against targets inside Russia, it would mean the direct participation of Nato countries in the conflict, Vladimir Putin said on Thursday 12 September. Western long-range precision weapons can only be used with intelligence data from Nato satellites and flight assignments entered by Nato military personnel, he claimed. Therefore, we are not talking about allowing the Ukrainian regime to strike Russia with these weapons or not. We are talking about making a decision about whether NATO countries are directly involved in the military conflict or not, Mr Putin said. open image in gallery Vladimir Putin listens to Donald Trump during a press conference in Helsinki, Finland, in 2018 ( AFP via Getty Images ) He added that the decision would change the very nature of the conflict. This will mean that Nato countries, the United States, and European countries are fighting against Russia. Will long-range missile strikes on Russia change the tide of war? This is a very important decision for us, Serhii Kuzan, Chairman of the Kyiv-based think tank, the Ukrainian Security and Co-operation Centre, told the BBC. Its not something that will change the course of the war, but I think it will make our forces more equal. Mr Kuzan said the decision had come just in time to counter the expected start of a major assault by Russian and Korean troops, designed to dislodge Ukrainian forces from the Russian Kursk region. The assault is expected within days. Thats why this decision comes just in time. There are two days left, he tells me, adding that much depended on what quantities of missiles have already been provided to Ukraine and whether the US shares intelligence information to enable the missiles to be used to the greatest effect. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Dozens of Palestinians were killed and injured in an Israeli strike on a residential building housing at least six families in Gaza, medics and residents said. The strike in northern Gazas Beit Lahiya killed 72 people, according to the Gaza government media office. The Palestinian Civil Emergency said around 70 people lived in the property. Video footage of the strike seen by Reuters shows locals pulling bodies from large piles of rubble, with surrounding houses heavily damaged following the strike. It comes weeks after Israeli tanks were sent into the Beit Lahiya and the nearby towns of Beit Hanoun and Jabalia in northern Gaza, the largest of Gazas eight historic refugee camps, which has raised fears that Israel intends to force civilians from the region. Meanwhile, the bombing campaign across the rest of Gaza has intensified in recent days. Earlier on Sunday, an Israeli airstrike on a house killed at least 10 people in the Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza. Later in the day, a strike killed five Palestinians who were tasked with escorting aid trucks which entered the enclave, according to residents in Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza strip. open image in gallery Palestinians recite a prayer over the bodies of people killed in an Israeli strike, in front of the al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir Al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip ( AFP via Getty Images ) The Israeli military said it conducted strikes on terrorist targets overnight and had done what it could to avoid civilian harm. Gazas health ministry said 43,800 people have been confirmed killed since 7 October 2023, following the Hamas attacks which killed around 1,200 Israelis, according to Israel, with dozens of hostages remaining in Gaza. Meanwhile, an Israeli strike in Beirut, Lebanon, has killed Hezbollahs chief of media relations, Mohammad Afif, two Lebanese security sources told Reuters. There has been no immediate confirmation from Hezbollah. open image in gallery Beirut residents stand on the rubble after an Israeli strike on a building that killed Hezbollahs media relations chief Mohammad Afif, according to security sources ( Reuters ) There was no prior warning on the Israeli military spokespersons X (Twitter) account before the strike on the Ras al-Nabaa neighbourhood, where many displaced people from Beiruts southern suburbs were seeking refuge. The Lebanese health ministry said the strike killed one and injured three. The missiles struck the headquarters of the Syrian Baath Party. Ali Hijazi, the head of the party in Lebanon, told Lebanese broadcaster Al Jadeed that Mr Afif was in the building. The broadcaster later said he had been killed. Mr Afif was a long-time media advisor to Hassan Nasrallah, Hezbollahs former secretary general who was killed in an Israeli strike in late September. Following Israels major escalation of its conflict with Hezbollah with a heavy bombardment and invasion in late September following months of tit-for-tat strikes since last October Mr Afif had hosted several press conferences for journalists amid the rubble in Lebanons capital. In his last comments on 11 November, he said Hezbollah had sufficient weaponry to fight a long war. Charli XCX declared Martha Stewarts feud with a journalist is brat during her Saturday Night Live opening monologue. The British pop star, who took the world by storm with her Brat album, described the US star as brat after she mistakenly claimed a journalist who covered her legal proceedings was dead. Charli XCX said: So many people have asked me, what is brat, and honestly, its just like an attitude, its a vibe. For example, the new Martha Stewart documentary, when Martha gets mad about an old magazine article and she says that shes glad the journalist who wrote it is dead that is brat. And then last Friday, when that exact journalist responded and said, Hey, Im alive, b**** that is extremely brat. Louise Haigh has defended Labours budget measures after Keir Starmer shunned farmers at a tax protest. The transport secretary said budget measures that affect farmers are fair and proportionate. She sidestepped questions about why the prime minister did not speak to farmers who gathered to protest outside the Welsh Labour conference on Saturday (16 November) and whether it was wise for a farming minister to say farmers should calm down over plans to raise inheritance tax plans. We do recognise the difficult situation that many are in, but we think the choices that we set out in the budget are fair and proportionate, she told Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips. Passengers screamed and items flew through the air when a Scandinavian Airlines flight was hit by severe turbulence over the Atlantic. The incident happened aboard flight SK957, which departed from Stockholm for Miami on Thursday (14 November). Footage filmed inside the cabin shows passengers screaming and several items flying through the air, when turbulence struck over Greenland. The plane was forced to make a u-turn and landed back at its base in Copenhagen, where it was checked for damage. Scandinavian Airlines confirmed 254 passengers and one baby were on the flight and that there were no serious injuries. Enterprise Ireland, Invest Northern Ireland and the IDA shared a pavilion at the Singapore Fintech Festival In Ireland, we take having a bank account and banking apps for granted. But in many other parts of the world, there are millions of unbanked people meaning they dont have a bank account. Meeting the needs of the unbanked is just one of the many significant fintech opportunities open to Irish firms across the Asia-Pacific region. Across regtech and compliance, cybersecurity, currency transfer and many other financial services, innovative Irish companies are finding significant opportunities and markets in the region. Thats why 16 companies from Ireland participated in a joint trade mission at last weeks Singapore Fintech Festival one of the worlds largest fintech events, with 65,000 people attending. Its an incredible opportunity to raise brand awareness and spotlight your firms capabilities to many of the worlds leading banks and financial services companies. Its the first time the two trade organisations have hosted a pavilion together at the event Ireland has a strong reputation in the sector globally, with over 250 indigenous Irish fintechs now in operation. Together with the wider Irish-based financial services sector, they accounted for exports of 22.2bn in 2023. With many Irish fintechs already forging successful partnerships and doing deals with leading international banks from across the wider APAC region, this event offered an opportunity to make valuable new connections and build on existing relationships. Leading Irish firms Fenergo and Know Your Customer each had stands at the Singapore Fintech Festival, while 12 firms from all across the island exhibited on the joint Enterprise Ireland/Invest Northern Ireland pavilion. They included Continuum Commerce, Cubematch, Daon, Fexco, Intuition Publishing, Transfermate Global Payments and Visibility Blockchain. And Northern Ireland based companies that participated include Fern Software, FinTrU, EOS IT, Funds-Axis and First Derivative. Its the first time the two trade organisations have hosted a pavilion together at the event, which reflects the all-island nature of this fast-growing industry and the collaborative approach taken by Enterprise Ireland, Invest Northern Ireland and IDA Ireland. Among those attending were Enterprise Ireland CEO Leo Clancy, IDA executive director Mary Buckley; minister for the economy in Northern Ireland Conor Murphy; and Kieran Donoghue, CEO of Invest Northern Ireland. The EU Free Trade Agreement with Singapore provides safeguard guarantees for Irish firms The event also offered a chance to meet venture capital and sovereign wealth fund representatives, including global investors such as Temasek, SC Ventures, ADB Ventures and Gen Zero. As a financial services hub for the region, Singapore is the logical first port of call for companies seeking a foothold in the Asia-Pacific market. Its a well-regulated, safe market, featuring a similar banking landscape to Ireland. Many Irish fintechs with banking and financial services clients in Dublin, London and Frankfurt end up extending that relationship to those clients operations in Singapore. They can then build on this market presence and take advantage of the greater opportunity in the region across. The EU Free Trade Agreement with Singapore provides safeguard guarantees for Irish firms entering the market, as does Enterprise Irelands on-the-ground team, which gathers market intel and has extensive contacts. Kevin Ryan is director of ASEAN at Enterprise Ireland 'Weve done all that hard stuff. We are ready for the fun stuff,' said Rachel OConnor, managing director of General Paints Group. Photo: Andres Poveda General Paints, the Celbridge-based paint manufacturer behind the brand Colourtrend, is to invest 5m into its headquarters, a former Famine-era workhouse. Rachel OConnor, MD of General Paints Group, told the Sunday Independent the business plans to turn part of the building into a design destination for Irish interiors. OConnor said the 5m investment in the HQ followed several other investments in areas including IT and manufacturing plant equipment over previous years. Weve done all that hard stuff. We are ready for the fun stuff, she said. In its results for 2023, General Paints recorded almost 22.6m in sales. Pre-tax profit rose to 2.86m, up around 26pc on 2022. OConnor said the current financial year had been flat though the business had performed in line with the market. I think for us to grow, we are probably going to have to do things differently, she said. These include innovations around its in-store experiences and investing in its digital offering as well as expansion opportunities overseas The family firm also recently rebranded its network of seven owned stores to Cove & Co. OConnor said General Paints had recently achieved B-Corp certification awarded to businesses to show they meet high social and environmental performance standards. She said the cert was just the beginning for General Paints. I would be fairly allergic to greenwashing. The companys paints, including Colourtrend and Curator, are sold in various markets including the UK, US and the Netherlands. Bill Kelly and his daughter Laura at Kellys Cafe in Drinagh, Co Wexford. Photo: Patrick Browne Kellys Resort Hotel and Spa is to invest over 2m into the business, as it continues to enhance the four-star hotel amid high demand. The well-known family-owned resort in Rosslare, Co Wexford, is looking to invest in its bedrooms and the reception area in the hotel, according to its owner and managing director Bill Kelly. In a property like ours that is so busy, it is important for us to continue the investment, to give something new back to the customer, Kelly said. But also we want to keep the standards up to scratch, because it is a high usage hotel. We are operating at over 95pc occupancy, so its very important to refurbish when we get the opportunity, and keep everything up to standard. Last week, the company behind Kellys Resort Hotel and Spa reported a 11.5pc jump in revenue for 2023, rising to nearly 19.4m. Operating profit at the business was also up, rising to 741,000 from 570,900 in 2022. The impact of the Vat rise on the business for us is probably an extra 900,000 Bill Kelly said margins had gotten tighter. The results showed the cost of sales grew 10.8pc last year to 4.4m, while administrative expenses jumped 7.8pc to 14.3m. Kelly blamed such factors as last years increase in Vat to 13.5pc and also pointed to broader costs increasing in the sector, including food and wages. There are challenges ahead, he said. Ongoing investments have been crucial to driving revenue growth, said Kelly, citing the addition of its new restaurant, The Sea Rooms, and a cafe outside of the hotel. Whether it is driving up profit is another thing, he said. Its about keeping the head down and trying to be efficient as possible. Weve also spent a serious amount of money in the greening of Kellys. We put in solar, which has had a very important impact on energy costs. Bill Kelly and his daughter Laura at Kellys Cafe in Drinagh, Co Wexford. Photo: Patrick Browne Kelly said he believed this years results would be similar to 2023s. I dont think youll see the growth, but this year you will see the impact of the Vat rise on the business. Probably, for us, it is an extra 900,000. I think people are a little bit fed up of airports Looking to 2025, Kelly said demand was exceptionally good. He believes the companys investment programme was paying dividends. People want to go on holidays, he said. And I think its also driven by people being a little bit fed up of airports. A lot of people like to stay and have a resort experience in Ireland. I think thats where we come to the fore. The four-star Kellys Resort Hotel and Spa has become something of an Irish institution. The Kelly family have been running a business on the premises ever since the 1890s when it was first developed as Kellys Tea Rooms. Bill Kelly took over the running of the hotel in 1986. His eldest daughter Laura is also a director of the company and the hotels manager. Kellys Resort Hotel and Spa has since grown. The business employed a monthly average of 286 people in 2023, an increase of 19 on the previous year. The party said that if it is part of the new government, it would look at a new register for EU, EEA and Swiss citizens to build a database of who is coming in and out of the country and how long they are staying here for. Sinn Fein's Cathy Bennett elected in Cavan-Monaghan Ms Bennett joins running mate Matt Carthy and Fine Gael's David Maxwell on the ticket, with just two seats in the constituency, and the country, left to be filled. It was elation once again for Sinn Fein as first time candidate Cathy Bennett won a seat to Dail Eireann amid wild celebrations in the Cavan Leisure when she was elected. Her supporters sang 'Oro Se Do Bheatha Abhaile' at full pitch this evening. Cathy Bennett got 3,281 votes from Matt Carthys transfers putting her on 13,383 and giving her a surplus of 1,841 to be distributed between Fianna Fails Brendan Smith and Niamh Smyth and Aontus Sarah OReilly. Niamh Smyth is on 10,856 after getting 73 from Carthys surplus while Brendan Smith got 94 pushing him to 10,616. Aontus Sara OReilly got 131 from Carthys surplus and is on 9,129 and looks like she will finish in sixth place. But, there was a heavy feeling of inevitability on the 13th count as Cathy Bennett, Brendan Smith, and Niamh Smyth relaxed with their families and friends so you had none of the quaintly manic nail biting of other elections where a delicious sense of hope and wonder filled the air. Smith and Smyth are sitting TDs and Fianna Fails vote has increased by around 600 votes while Sinn Feins overall vote is down around 2000 votes while Fine Gaels vote is down around 5,000 votes. But they will be happy to have held the seat that ex Minister Heather Humphreys worked so hard to win and first timer David Maxwell has big shoes to fill. But for those who won, it was all worth the trudging of the winding roads of Cavan and Monaghan in the deep winter was all worthwhile. But with one more count to go, Brendan Smith and Niamh Smyth look set be elected. Gerry McLaughlin Having a party of Independents is just one strange motif of politics in Ireland, as I found out in my research When I was invited to work on a project called VoteSmart six months ago, I didnt know much about Irish politics. I knew there were two parties with unusual Irish names and I imagined the country would have a majoritarian electoral system. But thats about it. I came with Belgian expectations, but I soon learnt the Irish system was full of surprises. In fact some features of Irish politics really surprised me. Im not saying they are all dysfunctional nor that they are bad, but they are certainly odd. VoteSmart is an online tool that helps voters align their beliefs with the policy positions of parties and Independents. It is carefully calibrated and involves significant engagement with parties. It is very popular during Belgian elections for which weve used it on eight occasions. The first surprise when I met the team working on the Irish version was they spent so much time speculating on when an election might actually take place. My colleagues told me that elections had to take place by March 2025 but would certainly happen earlier. In my country, the next election date is roughly decided right after an election is held. The exact date is pinned down about six months before election day. Whereas here, the Taoiseach can single-handedly decide to ask your President to dissolve the Dail. The even more remarkable thing is that only three weeks later, voters will go to the polls. Both these features are not entirely unique to the Irish system. But once called, parties and individual candidates in Ireland have just a week to put forward their candidacy. In my country, we know who is running more than two months before the election date, and we know in which rank order the parties will appear on the ballots. In Ireland, everything happens in an incredible hurry. Parties have to scramble to assemble manifestos, media have no time to cover the exploding campaign, individual candidates have to rush to put forward their candidacy, and voters must make up their mind almost instantly. Think about it: voters get less than two weeks to weigh up the full options available for the next five years. The election seems to be more of a rush to the polls than a well-considered debate about the countrys future. You would imagine that, since the campaign is so short and abrupt, the party system would be straightforward and easy to make sense of. But it is not. The most striking thing is the large number of Independents in the Dail. Nineteen of the outgoing 160 TDs are classified as Independent. It is not that there is a shortage of parties so that political entrepreneurs cannot but run on their own. Maybe Belgian politics would be better off with a less ideologically divided political landscape There were nine parties represented in parliament, which makes the Irish party system quite fragmented. That there even exists an Irish party of Independents strikes me as quite absurd. How can one form a party with people who want to be Independent from parties? I would assume that voters know very little about the ideological orientation of most of these Independents and that their voting for them does not contain much of a policy preference signal, while this is what one would hope elections would mainly do. In the team that built VoteSmart, we spent many hours formulating, discussing and fine-tuning the policy statements. In Belgium, the underlying structure of the party system is quite simple, with two different and partially overlapping ideological dimensions: economic left-right (state intervention, taxes, and redistribution) and cultural left-right (environment, crime, migration). Parties mostly have an outspoken position on these two cleavages like in most countries in Europe. Such a structure makes it easy to produce a balanced vote test with roughly an equal amount of left-wing and right-wing statements. When working on VoteSmart, though, my colleagues at the Sunday Independent told me that it was not that simple here. Environmental issues, so it appears, are not left or right but neutral; they are not connected to the main socio-cultural left-right fault line like they are in most other countries. In Ireland, what a party thinks about, for instance, migration, is not a good predictor of its stance on the environment or climate. Or, the property tax would be seen elsewhere in Europa as a left-wing tax. But in Ireland many of the left-wing parties want to abolish it. Every political system has its peculiarities. Im sure that if I asked my good colleague, Professor David Farrell from UCD, with whom we built VoteSmart to co-develop the next Belgian vote test together, he would be equally surprised about many of the oddities of Belgian politics. Maybe Belgian politics would be better off with a less ideologically divided political landscape. But I would certainly not advise that our prime minister be given a right to call elections and shorten the campaign to merely a handful of days. Stefaan Walgrave is a Belgian political scientist based at the University of Antwerp. To use the VoteSmart tool and see which parties or candidates align with your views, try it out here: Tributes have poured in for DUnbelievables comedian and acclaimed stage and film actor Jon Kenny, who has died after a long battle with cancer. He was 66. Kenny died at the Galway Clinic on Friday night after the recurrence of the cancer that ended his collaboration with fellow Limerick comedian Pat Shortt in 2000. Yesterday, Shortt described Kenny as a comic genius. The pair last performed together in the 2021 hit movie The Banshees of Inisherin, in roles created for them by writer and director Martin McDonagh. Talking about the appeal of DUnbelievables in Ireland, Shortt told how the Banshees cast and crew stayed on set to watch them shooting their scenes. I remember shooting that scene with Colin Farrell and everybody came in to see us. Brendan Gleeson sat down beside Martin at the monitor. They all came in because DUnbelievables were now performing on the set. It was a lovely thing and you could see some of the international crew wondering, What the f**k is going on here? Normally, people go off and get a coffee when somebody else is filming. Shortt said he served his apprenticeship with Kenny. I dont think Ill ever meet anyone that is funnier because, impromptu, he could go off on a stream of madness, but there was depth in what he was doing Jon was incredibly creative, he said. Hes the funniest guy I ever met. I dont think Ill ever meet anyone that is funnier because, impromptu, he could go off on a stream of madness, but there was depth in what he was doing. Jon was very intelligent, very smart. He was severely dyslexic and sometimes what happens there is that the creative side comes out more because you have to cope with a lot of things that other people dont have to. Definitely, it seemed to trigger Jons creative genius. As well as his comedy work, Kenny was an accomplished actor with roles in Fr Ted, Angelas Ashes and, more recently, Banshees. His stage credits included leading roles in The Matchmaker, The Field and She Stoops to Conquer. He also appeared in Roddy Doyles The Van in 1996, and Les Miserables starring Liam Neeson and Uma Thurman in 1998. Jon Kenny and Pat Shortt during a performance of their D'Unbelievables act Originally from Hospital, Co Limerick, he is survived by his wife Marguerite and two adult children, Leah and Aaron. Kenny, who had a unique comic stage presence, had to give up his punishing touring schedule at the height of DUnbelievables success when he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma in 2000. But he returned to the stage in 2007 as a solo artist and actor touring the country with his own unique brand of humour. He suffered a recurrence of the cancer around 2020, but continued working and writing until weeks before he died. His anarchic sense of humour and stage presence captivated people of varying tastes. He was bonkers in the best possible way, said actress Mary McEvoy, who first met him when she was acting in Glenroe and worked with him in different theatre productions down through the years. In a moving tribute on the Brendan OConnor Show on RTE Radio 1, McEvoy described him as a consummate professional. Behind that seemingly effortless talent to joke, there was a gifted performer and an extremely deep thinker Taoiseach Simon Harris said: Jon had the ability that very few people possess to make his audiences crack up laughing with a glance or a single word. Behind that seemingly effortless talent to joke, there was a gifted performer and an extremely deep thinker. To say he is beloved is a huge understatement. RTE radio presenter Oliver Callan told the Sunday Independent: Everyone in Irish comedy owes Jon Kennys madcap intelligence and energy a debt. We did his last interview in March on radio when he was announcing his return to work. His excitement about returning to the stage was hopping out of him through that trademark wide-eyed joy. Jon was really smart, deeply pensive and brilliantly funny. An artist who held the country in happy thrall for years. Comedian Jon Kenny fought a long battle with cancer. Photo: Clare Keogh Today's News in 90 seconds - 17th November 2024 In that last interview, he told how he had no choice back in 2000 other than to step away from DUnbelievables. Over the space of two years, I was on different forms of treatment, he said. I got a stem cell transplant, thanks be to God, in St Jamess Hospital. They sorted me out and I motored on for another while. It came back about three or four years ago. So, I had some operations to remove some of my left lung, and just in the middle of it all, just at the crack of it, you know, when youre getting on with things, I had heart failure. Jon (Jonathan) Kenny was born on December 12, 1957. The second youngest of five children, he was only four when his father died at the age of 42. His mother ran a drapery shop, Kennys Arcade, in Hospital, to raise the family. He recalled the town as being full of characters including one who went on a short visit to Paris and came back speaking broken English for years afterwards, leading people to think he was French. Jon Kenny on RTE drama 'Fair City' He spoke about a childhood where he did not like school, but loved exploring the back alleys of his home village. Suffering from undiagnosed dyslexia, he left school at the age of 15 to play bass guitar and sing with a band called Gimik, doing cover versions of chart-topping songs. But he was also interested in theatre and won several Irish Amateur Drama awards with the Bruff Players and Theatre Omnibus in Limerick, while writing scripts for Derek Davis on RTE television. I wanted to do a few plays and just kind of try my hand at it, so when I was getting fed up of the band I was playing with in Limerick, I got involved with a couple of guys who were doing theatre on a local level in the city in the early Eighties, he told Hot Press in 2003. I really enjoyed it from the off. And another important factor was that I suffered from dyslexia, and of course that was really a massive obstacle in terms of education back in those days. Kenny and Shortt met at college in Limerick. Kenny was 28 and already a recognised actor and comedian. Shortt was 18 and started doing lighting and sound for Kennys shows, until gradually they became a duo. We started writing material together in a more formal way, which led to DUnbelievables, Shortt said. He acknowledged that Jon introduced me to the world of comedy and everything changed for me. When asked about the early stage shows with Dunbelievables, he said much of it was not acting at all. We just wanted to throw all that out [acting] and have the characters behaving as if they knew everyone in the crowd. I mean, the reality was that we were no different than the people sitting in the audience, so why construct artificial boundaries? We wanted to break down those barriers he said. There are two parts to treatment and healing, and your own healing is equally important as the medicinal treatment Watching him in One Hell of a Do at the Tivoli Theatre in Dublin in 2011, that was what they did. At the interval, when the audience went to the bar, Kenny appeared suddenly in the throng. He dragged people over to strangers saying, let me introduce you to the mother of the bride, behaving as if it was a typically ridiculous Irish wedding. The DUnbelievables years, which began in the mid-1980s, were highly successful in artistic and monetary terms. A stint on the Shay Healy television series Nighthawks led to them becoming probably the most famous comedy act in the country. Kenny was stoic about the cancer that ended DUnbelievables, saying: I dont think that Ive been cheated at all, I think that Ive been blessed. I mean that. I suppose I wouldnt use the word blessed too often, but I think there was a reason for me getting it. I think I needed to stop, to stand back and look at what was going on around me. And maybe I also had to look inwards and ask myself what the hell was going on internally. There are two parts to treatment and healing, and your own healing is equally important as the medicinal treatment. In one interview, he talked about how he rarely took a holiday, suggesting the punishing work schedule may have contributed to his illness. Kenny and Shortt were very funny, but also imbued with a gentle satire on the foibles of Irish life. One of Kennys later solo shows, Back to Front, was described as casting an astute eye for the ridiculous in modern life. The show featured memorable characters such as Buckley the Developer, Paddy the Mayo Man and The Twelve Disciples of Leinster a satire on Leinster rugby fans, as he was an ardent Munster supporter. After living in Dublin for some years, he and Marguerite bought a 20-acre forested estate called Galligans Cottage near Bruff, Co Limerick. They later added a purpose-built timber-framed home imported from Nova Scotia. DUnbelievables reunited for a Late Late Show performance in December, 2010. Former senator tells Joe Duffy about his activism on gay rights and how he had his heart broken by his ex-partner Traolach O Buachalla from Dublin celerates with Senator David Norris at the Marriage Equality Referendum count in the RDS Simmonscourt in 2015. Photo: Frank McGrath Despite being a key architect of Irelands historic gay marriage vote, former senator David Norris says he never wanted to walk down the aisle or have children. On RTEs The Meaning of Life, to be broadcast tonight, he says he didnt see the necessity to get married even though he played a pivotal role in Irelands referendum vote in 2015. Why would I get married? Its there. Ive fought for marriage equality, but that is so that people had the choice, and I choose not to be bothered, Mr Norris said. While many same-sex couples have children in Ireland today, he says it was not for him. I can enjoy my nephew and nieces children, but I dont have to put up with them all day, he says. The 80-year-old also reveals he has a clean bill of health from the doctors after a few difficult years in which he was treated for cancer in virtually every part of my body. David Norris enjoys Christmas dinner with friends in 1996. Photo: Tony Gavin Looking back on his life, the civil-rights activist remembers founding the Irish gay rights movement 50 years ago when homosexuality was still a crime in Ireland. Young people dont believe it at all, but why should they? Its not relevant to their life, he tells presenter Joe Duffy. I was on the first-ever gay march, there were seven of us. We picketed the Department of Justice and the British Embassy. I wanted to use the full extent of the legal system. I wanted to go to the High Court. I wanted to go to the Supreme Court. And I wanted to go to Strasbourg, he said, referring to his long-running and eventually successful legal proceedings to decriminalise homosexuality that ran through the late 70s and 80s. Former senator and gay rights activist David Norris, left, with RTE's Joe Duffy Why would I get married - Senator David Norris discusses marriage and death with Joe Duffy In 1982, Dublin man Declan Flynn was savagely beaten to death by a gang of teenagers who admitted they attacked him because of his sexuality. Mr Flynns death became a catalyst for the gay rights movement here. I remember that very well...Declan Flynn, who I knew reasonably well, Mr Norris said, adding there was a lot of anger at the treatment of the gay community. There was, because of the injustice of it. It was dreadful. But look at the transformation. We now have the head of the Senate, Jerry Buttimer, (who) is gay. Leo Varadkar, the [former] taoiseach (is) gay. Its marvellous. In the frank interview, the Trinity College academic also speaks openly about his devastation at the death of his late Israeli partner, Ezra Nawi, during the pandemic in 2021. It was terrible because it was during Covid, and I couldnt even visit him during his illness. He got a brain tumour, and that was what killed him, Mr Norris said. Traolach O Buachalla from Dublin celerates with Senator David Norris at the Marriage Equality Referendum count in the RDS Simmonscourt in 2015. Photo: Frank McGrath He knew the Israeli peace activist for 30 or 40 years. I was [in love] very much so, he said before describing his devastation when Mr Nawi broke up their relationship. That was a bit of a stinker, and he met up then with the Israeli discus and javelin champion. A very, very nice man. I met him, and Im still in touch with him. Life is nasty, brutal and short, and there is no time for grudges. When asked if his ex broke his heart, Mr Norris said: He did. I remember lying flat on the sofa in this room, paralysed with the horror that Id lost Ezra. I certainly didnt see a rosy future, but if you give things time, they resolve themselves. His relationship with his ex-partner caused him to drop out of the presidential race in 2011 after it emerged that Mr Nawi had been convicted of the statutory rape of a 15-year-old Palestinian boy in 1992. Some of the comments on my candidacy was very wounding and hurtful, Mr Norris said. I remember waking up, crying, and thinking could I be this kind of monster that I was being portrayed as? That was very unpleasant. If you kick a wasps nest long enough, they will sting you Mr Norris came under fire when it emerged that he wrote a clemency letter on his former partners behalf. He said: I was a friend, a lover of Ezra, and of course, I would stand by him and write a letter for him. He added that his late peace-activist partner was Jewish, but strongly pro-Palestinian. The appalling slaughter of the civilian population of Gaza, that is a transgression against the fundamental Jewish ethic, which is LChaim - to life. And all Netanyahu can produce is death, Mr Norris said. I think people all over the world are doing what they can. The protests on campuses, including Trinity, I think theyre quite right to do that. He added that Benjamin Netanyahu is appallingly unpopular in Israel, saying: If he called a general election now, hed lose, hands down. Mr Norris described the actions of Hamas on October 7 as quite wrong. He added: But if you kick a wasps nest long enough, they will sting you. And thats what they did. They have had to put up with what they call the Nakba, the disaster, since 1947. I would not justify it...it was understandable. Mr Norriss controversial exit from the presidential race in 2011 meant he was around to fight Enda Kennys attempt to abolish the Seanad a few years later. I saved the Senate, the Senate was going to be abolished, he said. The now-retired senator, who is not afraid of dying, has given very explicit instructions for his funeral. I am prepared to die. Ive already recorded the talk, he said. He has even chosen the epitaph for the headstone. It says we are such stuff as dreams are made on and our little life is rounded with a sleep. I think the words Ive chosen are absolutely perfect, nobody can argue with them. The Meaning of Life with guest David Norris will be broadcast on RTE One and RTE Player tonight at 10.30pm The scene on Talbot Street in Dublin in the aftermath of the 1974 bombing. Another bomb exploded in Monaghan town on the same day. The High Court has granted leave for a judicial review brought against the Irish authorities over an alleged failure to provide information about the Dublin and Monaghan bombings in 1974 to the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland (PONI). Paddy Askins, son of Patrick Askin, who was one of 33 people killed in the 1974 bombings, is challenging Garda Commissioner Drew Harris and Justice Minister Helen McEntee over their alleged failure to co-operate with the PONI investigation. The police ombudsman is in the final stages of preparing a thematic inquiry into wider allegations of collusion between the so-called Glenanne gang and British security forces in the mid-1970s. Belfast-based solicitors KRW Law LLP acts on behalf of families and survivors of the Dublin and Monaghan bombings. Solicitor Kevin Winters said: The reason for bringing this case is to try and force gardai to hand over the Dublin-Monaghan files to PONI. Its stressful and retraumatising for families to learn that the Irish State hasnt actually facilitated something as basic as this. In these circumstances you cant blame them for thinking if there is some sort of cover-up. Its a depressing day for justice when families and survivors are left with little option but to go to court. The police ombudsmans inquiry, Operation Newham, is an investigation into allegations of collusion between the then RUC and the activities of the so-called Glenanne gang. No one has ever been held responsible for the attacks, and the garda investigation files into these bombings and the murders remains open. Last June, shortly after the 50th anniversary of the bombings, Justice Minister Helen McEntee told the Dail that gardai had been assisting PONI in relation to Operation Newham. An Garda Siochana has engaged with PONI over those years in relation to a number of investigations, including Dublin-Monaghan, and is continuing its work in providing assistance to PONI, she said at the time. This co-operation between state authorities and Operation Newham is a matter to be dealt with through the appropriate formal channels and is, of course, an operational matter for An Garda Siochana. She added that gardai remain committed to co-operating to the greatest extent possible with Operation Newham and PONI generally. Last Tuesday, the High Court formally granted leave for Paddy Askins to take the case to a full hearing. Mr Winters added: It is depressing that, after 50 years, families have to traipse to court to force the Irish authorities to make files available on the worst atrocity of the conflict. We welcome the fact that the High Court has made an order granting leave to take the case to the next stage. We now call on the authorities to do the right thing and make these files available as soon as possible. A separate civil action against the UK government is said to be at an advanced stage. Chinese vice premier urges efforts to ensure warm winter for flood-affected people Xinhua) 00:51, November 17, 2024 SHENYANG, Nov. 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing has stressed efforts to ensure the livelihoods and a warm winter for people affected by floods. Zhang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when he visited affected residents in the city of Huludao in northeast China's Liaoning Province on Saturday. This year's flood season has witnessed extremely heavy rains in multiple regions across the country that led to severe floods, and Huludao was one of the affected cities. In China's northeastern regions, where winter arrives early and lasts for a longer time, ensuring a warm and safe winter for the people affected by disasters is a hard task, said Zhang. Efforts should be made to expedite the repair, reinforcement and reconstruction of damaged houses in the affected areas, help the affected residents access to basic living facilities and ensure that people stay warm during the winter, he said. Zhang also stressed the need to strengthen the construction of flood control infrastructure and enhance monitoring and early warning. (Web editor: Cai Hairuo, Liu Ning) Safety concerns also central reason new helicopters remain grounded The new Irish Coast Guard helicopter service has been held up. Photo: Steve Humphreys/file photo A new 800m Coast Guard search-and-rescue contract has been hit by delays and safety concerns around its rollout. Documents obtained by the Sunday Independent show rescuers have complained that plans to introduce the new service provided by Bristow Ireland are rushed and undermine confidence. The first search-and-rescue flights for the new helicopters were scheduled to start two weeks ago but have yet to take off. They have not yet been certified to do night-time rescues, nor have they been cleared to fly to and from hospitals. Bristow said it is working to meet all operations and certification standards. A report about the new service, which was shared on an internal Coast Guard safety management system last July, said timelines around switching providers from CHC Ireland to Bristow were compressed. These concerns were later shared with the Department of Transport, the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) and European regulators. The report referred to an investigation into a fatal helicopter crash in Norway and a Court of Appeal judgment here to support its concerns. Bristow was awarded a 10-year contract in August last year to provide the Irish Coast Guards air search-and-rescue service, with different helicopter bases transitioning to its remit on a phased basis by the middle of next year. Shannon was supposed to go live first, with CHCs staff and responsibilities at bases in Sligo, Waterford and Dublin transferred to Bristow by July 1 next year. However, the new Shannon rescue helicopter remains grounded and the Coast Guards previous supplier, CHC, is providing interim cover until Bristow is operational. A Department of Transport briefing note, which was prepared last month and released under Freedom of Information, stated that a robust contingency plan is in place to support the delayed transfer of operations at Shannon. The phasing in of Bristow as the new operator of search and rescue helicopters went too quickly This will see CHC remain there until the end of the month. Bristow and CHC were parties to a service transition in Norway between 2022 and 2023 when Bristow took on search-and-rescue flights for oil company Equinor. A woman died and five others were injured when one of these helicopters crashed into the North Sea during a training exercise. Investigators examined the crash on Equinors behalf and made recommendations to improve safety. There was no suggestion the Bristow-CHC handover was a factor in the crash, but the investigations main conclusions noted the transition was questioned and perceived as tight. Staff in Norway who were spoken to as part of the investigation said the phasing in of Bristow as the new operator of search and rescue helicopters went too quickly. Bristow told the investigation it wanted a longer lead-in time. These pressures were noted in the report shared with the Irish Coast Guard, the Department of Transport and the IAA. It went on to cite an Appeal Court judgment which said the introduction of the new Irish service was very tight, and any delay in the commencement of the transition plan would jeopardise its ability to meet all the required milestones to go live. The report said discussion around the transition timeline in this court case, which related to CHCs challenge against the Bristow contract award, undermined safety and raises questions about the quality of pre-service commencement work. Bristow Ireland is in ongoing communication with the department Coast Guard sources said there are still concerns about the rollout of the new service. It is understood crews will need to undergo further training before being able to conduct rescue missions at night with Bristow. A spokeswoman for the Department of Transport, which oversees the Coast Guard, said that while there is no preclusion to Bristows helicopters using existing hospital landing sites, the process of securing requisite approvals for delivering the suite of Coast Guard services is ongoing between the operator and the IAA. The spokeswoman said this is nearing completion. The department said it is also hoped Bristows AW189 helicopters will be able to land on hospital rooftop sites and provide support for the National Ambulance Service or emergency transfers to UK hospitals. Bristows spokesman said the company is confident it can meet timelines and requirements around the phased transition at the remaining Coast Guard bases. He said the contingency plan agreed with CHC allows for seamless, uninterrupted search and rescue coverage as transition tasks are completed. Bristows global experience and capabilities underpin our approach, with operational safety as the central priority during this transition, he added. Bristow Ireland is in ongoing communication with the department regarding any implications for operational timelines and is confident in its ability to meet all requirements without impacting service continuity. Johnny Duhan was a prolific songwriter and spiritual man who never gave up on the dream. Photo: Tony Gavin Johnny Duhan, who died in a swimming incident off Galways Silver Strand beach at the age of 74, was one of Irelands most talented songwriters, known for his kindness, integrity and uncompromising nature. Warm tributes have been paid to him across the music world by politicians, artists and musicians, including Christy Moore, who recorded Duhans The Voyage in 1989 and who described him this week as a family man, gentle man, artist and an almighty rock and roller when he fronted his band Grannys Intentions 60 years ago. A man who cares not a whit for trends, but rather one whose reason for living, perhaps, is to transcend creative limitations, was how music journalist Tony Clayton-Lea described him. Born in Limerick city, he was one of a family of eight. As he recalls in his last book, To the Light, he was educated by the nuns on Henry Street and the Christian Brothers on Sexton Street. After one of the Brothers gave him a particularly bad beating his father confronted the school principal. The tone and substance of the songs I soaked up in those smoky establishments emerged years later Duhans early dream was to be a merchant seaman like his father and he and a friend tried to become stowaways on a Norwegian freighter when they were young boys. Writing in the Limerick Leader in 2013 he recalled how he was very affected by church music from an early age, but picked up singing from his father, a baritone, who was renowned for breaking into ballads like Ramona and soldier songs like Keep Right On Til the End of the Road in the public houses around the dock area and Wolfe Tone Street. The tone and substance of the songs I soaked up in those smoky establishments emerged years later in songs like Dont Give Up Till its Over, There is a Time, Lets Just Have Another Drink, Stowaway, Two Minds, and Just Another Town, Duhan wrote. In his teens, he developed a passionate relationship with our wireless and the international popular music that emanated from it, and discovered Limericks own vibrant music scene. At 15, he joined Ger Tuohys group The Intentions (later Grannys Intentions) and we formed the mad idea of aiming for the stars, he wrote. Worried about his decision, his father didnt speak to him for a year. The band moved to Dublin, where Duhan shared a flat with Phil Lynott at one point, and then London. They were one of the first Irish bands to do so, headlining in The Marquee and The Speakeasy. After getting signed to the prestigious Deram Records label, the group released a number of popular singles. The bands 1968 Irish hit, Never An Everyday Thing, reached No 7 in the charts. After returning to Ireland, the group released one album, Honest Injun, and went through a number of line-up changes before disbanding in 1972 when Johnny was 21 years old. At one of the bands final gigs, Duhan met a young school teacher with luminous eyes named Maureen Biggins. When he returned to London to sing with a group named St Jamess Gate, she gave up her teaching job in Dublin and the pension that went with it to join him in a tatty attic bedsit, as he described it, in Chiswick. On the eve of signing with a record company, Duhan left that group after a row with the leader. He and Maureen returned to live on her parents farm near Ballinasloe, Co Galway, where Duhan became very adept at growing vegetables. The couple married in Bullaun, Co Galway, in June 1975, and with an advance from Arista Records they bought a house in Galway city where they had their first child, Ronan. He never gave up on the dream, in that he was a songwriter all his life The record deal went belly-up, he wrote, but he continued writing and performing solo in the early 1980s, releasing a number of singles and touring with groups such as Moving Hearts. He worked with a number of musicians and producers, writing music for the 1988 film Reefer and the Model, written and directed by Joe Comerford. As producer Lelia Doolan recalls, he was the loveliest man and a poet in the spirit of Byron, whom he often talked about. He began reading assiduously, making up for a lack of formal education after an old girlfriend gave him a copy of Kafkas The Castle. His first autobiographical album, entitled Just Another Town, chronicled his early years in Limerick, and this was followed by a series of albums To The Light, The Voyage and Flame. In his series of autobiographical books, beginning with There is a Time published by Brandon in 2001, he described his mothers challenge with mental illness which he was first teased about when he was a young boy and his own battles with depression which led him to return to religion. The 1991 Round Tower Records album, Family Album, which he said he found hard to get airplay for, is a collection of his material covered by Dolores Keane, Mary Black, Francie Conway and Christy Moore whose 1989 recording of Duhans The Voyage has been played at countless weddings and other events. Marking a quarter century of The Voyage in 2014, Duhan wrote that he composed it partly as a gesture of gratitude to my father for having held a steady hand on the helm of our familys fortunes during the turbulent time of my upbringing. Anyone who has written a song like that has contributed in a significant way to the sum of human happiness He initiated a legal case in 2001 to recover royalties from a successful CD and video released by The Irish Tenors which featured The Voyage. In 2013, the solicitor who represented him, Eddie McGarr of McGarr Solicitors, Dublin, was found guilty of misconduct and ordered to pay Duhan 7,500 for failing to keep his client properly informed of the costs involved in that legal action. He published To The Light: Unsung in 2009 as a collection of prose recounting the background to his lyrics. In recent years, he returned to the stage with a series of one-man shows based on his life in song. He had returned to religion in his 30s, was a daily mass-goer, engaged in voluntary charitable work and was publicly opposed to abortion. During the pandemic, his recordings on YouTube opened up a new audience. In one of his recordings, he spoke about how one of his sons was involved in a very serious car accident which he is still recovering from. Sunday Independent editor Alan English, who published Duhans 2013 Limerick Leader piece when editor of that newspaper, said Duhan never received the level of recognition that was his due, but he was admirably true to his art despite that. Connacht Tribune editor Dave OConnell has described Duhan as the loveliest, kindest man, who was very spiritual, inspired by dawn walks and daily sea swims and nature, and was very well-read. Johnny loved conversation, debate and discussion. He got some kickbacks, where there might be a small number of people at gigs, but Don Quixote was one of his heroes and he never gave up on the dream, in that he was a songwriter all his life." Hot Press editor Niall Stokes forecast over a decade ago that Duhans The Voyage would be around long after most popular rock songs are long forgotten. The composer received countless letters and emails from people all over the world who had been touched by or helped by its lyrics, quotes from which are on Duhans website. As Stokes has said in Hot Press: Anyone who has written a song like that has contributed in a significant way to the sum of human happiness. Johnny Duhan, whose funeral took place at St Killians New Inn Church in Galway on Friday, is survived by his wife, Maureen, children Ronan, Niamh, Kevin, Ailbhe and Brian, grandchildren and extended family. Irish tweens, children aged between 10 and 12, are going through exhaustive and expensive skincare regimes in a quest for glass-like skin. Leading dermatologist Professor Caitriona Ryan says parents are being asked to spend hundreds of euro on advanced skincare regimes for kids as young as nine that arent appropriate for their skin. A combination of the pandemic and the explosion of TikTok is being blamed for Gen Alpha (children born between 2010 and 2024) becoming transfixed with costly skincare regimes. Tweens have been pleading with their parents to buy trendy brands like Drunk Elephant, where one of the smaller pots of skin cream can cost around 50. While teenagers in the past were obsessed with their mothers make-up, the new trend is to have glass skin. Tweens are looking for expensive skincare lines. Photo: Getty/Posed There is huge pressure on parents, and its ridiculous.' - Professor Caitriona Ryan on Tweens expensive skincare regimes Prof Ryan, consultant dermatologist with the Institute of Dermatologists, has been hearing concerns from parents over the past year. Parents, or Santa maybe, are going to be asked for ridiculously priced skincare, she said. Kids who are nine, 10, 11, are asking for their birthdays or Christmas for a very complex and advanced type of skincare, which isnt appropriate for their skin. Theres these fancy sorts of Korean regimens where they do cleansing and then use essences and toners and serums. TikTok has become their God, it seems to be the platform for that age group along with YouTube. Theyre being shown these complicated, fancy eight to 10-step regimes in the morning and evening. Theyre so impressionable at that age. She said parents feel conflicted as they dont want their children to feel excluded from their peer groups. There is huge pressure on parents, and its ridiculous. Theyre spending all this money to maybe make their kids skin worse. The phenomenon of highly complex skincare regimens is a dream come true for skincare companies, according to the dermatologist. They are very, very easy-to-target generations. Theyre so obsessed with their appearance now and perfection and flawless skin, and theyll do anything to achieve that. Parents are paying up to 300 or 400 on a range of these, she said, adding most skincare units have to be replaced every three or four months. Dermatologist Professor Caitriona Ryan has concerns There is a concern about causing damage to the skin, although not permanent damage, with the use of active ingredients such as alpha-hydroxy acids and beta-hydroxy acids. Theres no need for them and sometimes they make the skin dry and irritated. There are similar unnecessary side-effects when young children use retinoids, which are used for anti-ageing and acne. Unless somebody has acne, theres no need for them to use a retinoid. Again, its usually an irritancy, so their skin can become red, scaly, dry and cause issues when they have perfect skin in the first place. Dr Bryan Murphy, consultant dermatologist at Cathedral Dermatology Clinic in Belfast sees patients over the age of 13 from both sides of the Border. Some teenagers report using creams and lotions for years before their appointments. As young children and teenagers, the skin cell turnover time is much more accelerated compared to a 30 or 40-plus-year-old. Skin takes a few short weeks to form, shed then renew, he said. Use of unnecessary products at an age when normal skin does most of its own healing and hydrating, will alter the delicate and somewhat naive skin barrier. As teenagers and younger, our skin is still developing. He said harsh products could wreak havoc on those with predisposition to dry skin conditions like eczema who need help with topical therapies to maintain their already delicate skin barrier. TikTok is a huge influence. Photo: Getty/Posed Altering the skin barrier can lead to inflammation, acne breakouts and dryness, he said. Prof Ryan believes the focus on skincare could be turned into an opportunity for parents to instil good practices in children to protect against diseases like skin cancer later in life. All you need at this age is to wash your face in the morning and evening and put on a sunblock daily on your face as a moisturiser, because we know the majority of the damage, and Im talking about skin-cancer damage or the photo-ageing damage, is done before the age of 18. The dermatologist advises parents that inexpensive brands found in chemists are often much more effective than highly expensive luxury skincare. CeraVe and Cetaphil and these sort of creams you buy in the pharmacy are often way better than something youre going to buy in Brown Thomas. Theyve ceramides, theyve gentle ingredients and they dont trigger contact dermatitis. There are positive effects to the skincare obsession. The vast majority of 20-year-olds I have in here are using sunblock every day so there are healthy aspects, she said. My favourite room: Former fashion magazine editor Yseult Williams elegant Paris apartment honours her fascinating family heritage Writer Yseult Williams lives in a frenetic area of Paris with views from her apartment of Montmartre; however, shes created an oasis of calm with books, antiques, soft furnishings and soothing colours Author and former editor Yseult Williams in the elegant living room of her Paris apartment. The sofa shes sitting on is a Conran sofa, the green chair was given to her by her mother Dairine, who decided to move back to Ireland after the pandemic. Photo Tony Gavin Mary O'Sullivan Sun 17 Nov 2024 at 03:30 French women are different, says Yseult Williams, and she should know. A lifetime in France combined with a career in magazines, particularly fashion publications, gives her a unique and slightly detached insight. French women are all about appearance, they have this natural knowledge. Parisian chic is something that always existed, she explains. I am going to vote in a radically different way than ever before. I will cast my votes in the Mayo constituency for Chris Maxwell (Independent Ireland), Paul Lawless (Aontu), Joe Daly (People Before Profit), Patsy OBrien (Independent) and Stephen Kerr (Independent). We need a new and more energetic political system to replace the thousands of false promises made by the members of the main political parties over the last hundred years. The existing parties are promising the earth, but are not delivering. In this election, the same promises are made; once they are elected, we, the people, will allow them to settle back into Dail Eireann with their brand new bicycle shed for the next five years. The voters of this country need to be more vocal about holding politicians to account. In the last five years, promises were made on health, housing, education, climate change, the cost of living and other important issues, all of which have been largely ignored. Our current political parties have lost credibility. It appears that preserving a partys ideology is more important than delivering what is best for the citizens of this country. We need a huge sea change in support of those who can deliver what they promise in the next five years. Tom Grufferty, Knock, Co Mayo Were in another version of the Dark Ages, and only we can stop it worsening What are we electing? A Dail for the wishes of the Irish people, or a clearing house for US and EU policy as they pursue global domination and support endless wars? The recent parking of the Occupied Territories Bill was a national shame. The Dail should reflect our beliefs, our own Great Famine and genocidal colonial past. The world is in a dark place, and this has been perfectly illustrated with the intention of Donald Trump to appoint Matt Gaetz as his attorney general. We have a choice inhale the big boys cigars or do what our ancient monks did and save Europe from the Dark Ages. John Cuffe, Co Meath Parties content to dismiss electorate when it comes to forming government Our political parties are busy presenting their promises to the electorate. The current coalition parties are presenting policies they could have implemented during their term of office and didnt. Parties that are elected and forced to form a coalition will not honour their policy promises that the electorate voted on; usually, they will instead agree a programme for government with prospective partners, agreeing policies without reference to the electorate. The voice of the electorate is dismissed in the pursuit of power. In Macbeth, Shakespeare aptly summed up our politicians: And be these juggling fiends no more believd, That palter with us in a double sense, That keep the word of promise to our ear, And break it to our hope. Hugh McDermott, Dromahair, Co Leitrim Teacher-bashing may be all the rage, but theres no justification for any of it In response to Dudley Berrys comments about teachers (If you want a government that gets things done, you will need fewer teachers Letters, November 15), the quote those that can, do; those that cant, teach; and those that cant teach, lecture is over 50 years old, has no evidence of any kind as a base and is frequently trotted out by teacher begrudgers. But now a professor said it. In America. As the Leaving Cert students would say, go figure. In response to John Coughlans letter on the same day (We ought to set a limit on the number of educators allowed seats in the Dail), that rhetoric is flawed. The entrance exam those teachers passed was election by the people. We wont cap the number of teachers in government, as we live in a democracy, and we wont cap numbers of any profession in government. The teacher-bashing must stop. If anyone thinks its an easy option, sign up to an education college and give it a go. Margaret Docherty, Terenure, Dublin 6W States have responsibility to do more when it comes to social-media regulation The AI revolution will only further entrap people into using products that utilise rage, anger, hate and loneliness to hook their victims. And victims is how we should see ourselves. We all know how addiction works when it comes to substances and especially when looking outward at others. But perhaps the greatest lie social media sells is that you arent being manipulated, even if you accept that others are. Democracy, mental health and sexual well-being are all under constant attack due to the under-regulation of so-called social media providers. People have a choice to disengage and they should if they can. But nation states have a role and responsibility to do more, and they should, before AI makes them redundant. Declan Doyle, Co Kilkenny Stories behind readers insightful letters prove to be just as fascinating I commend all those who contribute worthy letters to the Irish Independent for their thought-provoking and insightful information and opinions. In many cases, I have followed up on the content to find out the stories behind the letters, which, on the whole, are fascinating. I eagerly look forward to reading all readers missives six days a week. Dominic Shelmerdine, London Harris and McDonald show off dance skills, but will they be duetting soon? Monaghan shop owner Helen Drumm had Simon Harris and Mary Lou McDonald stepping it out and dancing to the same tune in recent days (Irish Independent, November 14). Ms Drumm said afterwards that as the Sinn Fein leader had danced in her store before, she was a step ahead of the Taoiseach in the dance department. But as we all have witnessed, the Fine Gael leader moves at a very fast pace and is no slouch on the campaign trail, even sprinting at times. No doubt Mr Harris will hone his dancing skills as canvassing heats up ahead of election day and tip-toe around all competitors. I wonder if Ms McDonald and Mr Harris will be dancing in step after the votes are counted, or will they be singing from a different hymn sheet? Tom Towey, address with editor The launch will also include a lecture on 50 years of Kerry Group. The official launch of the 2024 Journal of the Kerry Archaeological and Historical Society will take place at Tralee Library on Thursday, 21 November at 6.30pm. The popular scholarly journal, which has been published annually since 1968, makes an important contribution to the story of Kerry and its heritage and history. It will be launched by the Leas Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, Cllr Fionnan Fitzgerald. The launch will be followed by the latest in a series of lectures hosted by the Society at 7.00pm. Tony Bergin, who is the President of the Kerry Archaeological and Historical Society, will present a talk on 'The History of Kerry Group PLC', marking the 50th anniversary of the formation of Kerry Co-operative Creameries. The lecture, which is open to members of the public, will cover a short history of Kerry Group PLC from its formation in the early 1970s up to the present day. By coincidence, this lecture coincides with the announcement this week that Kerry Co-op will begin the acquisition of the dairy and foods businesses of Kerry Group PLC in early 2025, another major milestone for both entities, said Tony Bergin. I hope that anyone who is interested will come along and learn more about this iconic brand and one of the greatest success stories in the history of Kerry business and enterprise, he said. The Journal of the Kerry Archaeological and Historical Society this year includes a diverse collection of chapters covering topics including the American and Colonial Navigation Company. Other features include, The Famine Burial Grounds of Tralee Workhouse, Teeraght Lighthouse, the Knockavrogeen West Megalithic Tomb, and Killarney Irish language enthusiast, Brian O Ceallaigh. The Journal will be available for purchase from www.kerryhistory.ie and will also be available in bookshops throughout the county including Tralee, Killarney, Listowel, Dingle and Caherciveen. Joshua Barker, Reuben Reed, Leah McCullagh, Daniel Carleton, and Aaron McCreery from Clontibret National School at the launch of a new community-led farm safety education resource created by AgriKids and Irish Rural Link at Clontibret National School, County Monaghan. AgriKids and Irish Rural Link are calling on communities to register their interest in a new farm safety education manual designed to support primary school teachers, and members of their local farming communities, to co-deliver an effective farm safety education programme in the classroom. Irish Rural link was established in 1991 to represent the interests of locally based rural groups in disadvantaged and marginalised rural areas at local, National and EU Level. The manual, funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine with additional funding from Flogas, includes information on how teachers and members of the community can work together to co-deliver the programme; ideas for topics which can be covered; tips for making the information accessible for children; and much more. Enniscorthy based Irish Rural Link Board Member, Billy Murphy, said: I am delighted that Irish Rural Link are working together with AgriKids in this initiative. Getting children engaged in farm safety early on can help prevent the simplest of accidents from happening on the farm. Having as many people from the community involved in educating children about the dangers on the farm will send a stronger message to the wider community also. It is just one of several new learning supports in development under the Engage, Educate & Empower pilot, a community-led learning initiative in farm safety education. As well as the creation of the manual on community-led learning, a farm safety gaming app and a video animation to the farm safety song, When Youre Working on the Farm, are also in development and due for release later this month. The community led learning strategy has been collated with input from an advisory panel made up of members of An Garda Siochana, teachers, farmers, community development officers and farm accident survivors, all of which have been involved in or participated in farm safety events in the past. AgriKids founder, Alma Jordan said, When it comes to farm safety the saying it takes a village is so apt. The fact is no one teacher, school or individual can deliver the farm safety message alone. We need our communities to come together to make sure that the message gets home and is relevant." "I get so many requests to visit schools and all too often I must refuse as its simply not possible to visit them all. By adopting a more community led approach we can not only encourage education of farm safety in schools, but also support people in the area who may be invited to schools to deliver talks and make sure they feel confident and assured while doing so, she added. Schools who wish to find out more about AgriKids and their existing suite of supported learning programmes can do so on the official AgriKids website. Enniscorthy Community College recently took part in the annual Stand-Up Awareness Week a vibrant and impactful week aimed at promoting inclusivity, respect, and awareness of LGBTQ+ issues. Stand-Up Awareness Week is a time for post-primary schools, youth services and Youthreach centres in Ireland to join us and take a stand against homophobic, biphobic and transphobic bullying. The campaign, spearheaded by Belong To, revealed that one in five young LGBTQ+ people face bullying and that 76 per cent of LGBTQ+ students feel unsafe at school. As such, this week is an opportunity for schools to receive resources and information towards creating a safe and inclusive space for all their students. Principal Iain Wickham said that this years theme, Community, was at the heart of the weeks activities, underscoring the importance of building a supportive and safe environment for all students, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. This years Stand-Up Week was especially significant as the school is in the process of obtaining its Quality Mark from Belong To. The Quality Mark recognises schools that go above and beyond to ensure a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ students. They had a visit from the educational officer from Belong To on Monday to check in on their progress. "The week kicked off as usual with the raising of our progressive pride flag, raised this year by our Deputy Principal Ms Tina Merriman and a Transition year student Ryan Kacey Fox. The school community comes out to cheer on the raising of the flag. Throughout the week all year groups take part in a presentation, this is aimed at opening up a conversation on equality and inclusivity within the wider community, he said. The school proudly raised their Pride flag. On Tuesday, November 5, Ms Flynn held an Open Mic event in the library where students were invited to sing a song, recite a poem, rap, or read a piece that meant something to them and the LGBTQ+ community which was attended by a number of students. Cllr Aidan Browne also came for a visit and sat down for a meeting with their LGBTQ+ students council to address issues around inclusivity and safety in the town of Enniscorthy. The meeting was a huge success and plans have been put in place to address some issues. Throughout the week there was a poster competition from exceptionally talented students, a bake sale in aid of an LGBTQ+ charity and a rainbow disco in the canteen Friday lunchtime. "Overall, this was a week that not only celebrated our LGBTQ+ students but listened and learned from them how to create a more safe and inclusive space not only in our school but in the whole community, he added. Firefighters from Gorey Fire Station are now qualified in the QPR Suicide Prevention Training Programme, delivered by the Gorey-based charity, Futures In Mind (previously Talk To Tom). Firefighters from Gorey, Enniscorthy, Bunclody, New Ross, and Wexford Fire Stations are now qualified in the QPR Suicide Prevention Training Programme, delivered by the Gorey-based charity, Futures In Mind (previously Talk To Tom). QPR, which stands for Question, Persuade, Refer, equips participants with skills to assess a suicide crisis, identify appropriate language, and ask key questions to guide individuals in crisis safely towards support. This course provides essential training on how to respond sensitively and effectively, preparing firefighters to handle these high-pressure situations. Firefighters are increasingly encountering people in the midst of a mental health crisis during their duties as emergency responders, often stepping in when ambulances are in short supply. To address this need, Wexford County Council has proactively facilitated the training for its fire personnel. Futures in Mind CEO Ray Cullen praised Wexford Fire Service for its initiative saying: Firefighters are finding themselves more frequently at the frontline of mental health emergencies. It is commendable that Wexford Fire Service has extended their considerable depth of expertise and knowledge by adding this new skill to help save lives. It is vital that first responders know the correct language to use when dealing with a person so distressed they may want to end their own life. Courses such as QPR are crucial not only to support those in crisis but also to protect the wellbeing of our responders. The training empowers them to approach these difficult situations with confidence and compassion. Two firefighters from the recent cohort were able to apply the training almost immediately, using their newly acquired skills to identify and support individuals in crisis and potentially saving two lives. Fire officers reported that the training has provided an organised and structured approach to handling mental health emergencies, making them feel more equipped to support the public in a crisis. Wexfords Chief Assistant Fire Officer, Colm McGrath, highlighted the significance of this training: The training and the feedback have been absolutely brilliant. It was fantastic to have the opportunity to train all our firefighters, which will benefit them both professionally and personally. Firefighters often meet people on some of the worst days of their lives, and in recent times, we have seen an increase in calls relating to mental health distress. This training gives our team the confidence to respond appropriately and potentially save a life. We are proud to have firefighters from every station in Wexford equipped with the life-saving skills necessary to respond to suicide crises. I applaud everyone involved, including Wexford County Council, for prioritising mental health training for our team, and Ray and Futures In Mind for making this programme so readily available in the community. Futures in Mind provides comprehensive mental health training programmes, specialising in suicide prevention education through the Question, Persuade and Refer method. The organisations goal is to equip communities with the skills and confidence needed to intervene effectively and prevent suicides. Futures In Mind was the first organisation to bring the US-based training to Ireland almost a decade ago. Since then, the volunteer-led charity has trained thousands of people, including most recently, staff from ESB networks across Ireland. Santa, Cathaoirleach Anthony Connick and the Nomads band turn on the lights in New Ross in 2023. Photo: Mary Browne Santa Claus has made a very important phone call to the New Ross Standard with some exciting news about a visit to New Ross, to carry out the big job of lighting up the town. On Saturday, November 23, Santa will join Cathaoirleach Bridin Murphy at 5pm to switch on the Christmas lights across the town. The elves are busy working extra hard to prepare the sleigh and the reindeer for Santa's visit from the North Pole to New Ross, where hell make his way through the town, as part of the Santa parade, towards the Tholsel. Santa told the New Ross Standard that all children who are kind and helpful to others are welcome on the day to meet with him on the steps of the Tholsel and join in with the festivities. There will be live music throughout the afternoon as the excitement builds from DJ Lee Hynes, followed then by The Nomads as they play to an expected bustling crowd gathered in the town centre. Santa has also called his good friends in the Rathnure Pantomime Society who are very happy to take part in the celebration. Santa, Cathaoirleach Anthony Connick and the Nomads band turn on the lights in New Ross in 2023. Photo: Mary Browne Its been facilitated through a booking system on Wexford County Councils website that children with sensory needs can meet with Santa at an earlier time in the day. New Ross Municipal District Manager, Alan Fitzhenry, confirmed there will be ten Christmas trees placed around New Ross this year, with upgraded lighting which, as an extra touch, will replicate the coloured lighting from the Small Things Like These film on Quay Street. The tenth Christmas tree, which will be an addition to the usual plans, will be located on the quay. The New Ross Remembrance Tree in Pearse Park will also return and this year the councils chosen charity is the Irish Kidney Association. The switch on for this tree is Monday, December 2, at 5pm and blank baubles are available from the Tholsel, Tirlan, Dermot Kehoes and the Dunbrody for a small donation to the charity. People are asked to write a remembrance message to a loved one and all are welcome to attend the switch on. Turning on Christmas lights in New Ross in 2023. Photo: Mary Browne We ask everyone to support Nollaig New Ross again this year, to come and enjoy the festive season and to shop local throughout the New Ross District, added Mr Fitzhenry. Eric Lalor to take to the stage in Bray for free Christmas show. If a laugh is something you feel you need just weeks out from Christmas, then mark your diaries for the Christmas Hardy Har Comedy Club, which takes place this year on Thursday, December 5, in the Harbour Bar, Bray. And its another double headliner this year, featuring two comedians that have had the dream year in Irish comedy Willa White and Eric Lalor. Stars of the hit podcast 'You Must Be Joking', Willa and Eric have smashed it this year on the Irish comedy circuit. Willa became the first comedian to headline The Gaiety Theatre since Billy Connolly, and Eric had a sold-out show at Liberty Hall Theatre. These two are at their very best and they are closing out the Hardy Har year in style. For free! Support comes from Emily Ashmore, who brought her solo show to Bray Comedy Festival last year, and Kat O Hanlon who was one of the favourite new faces to The Harbour Bar over the past 12 months. Local comedian Dylan O Toole returns to for the first time this year and the evening is hosted by resident MC Adam Burke. Doors 8pm. Show time is at the slightly earlier time of 8.45pm, so do arrive early. About 400,000 people displaced as latest typhoon batters the Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr had asked his Cabinet and provincial officials to brace for the worst-case scenario Tin structures are damaged in the aftermath of Super Typhoon Man-Yi, in Catanduanes province, Philippines November 17, 2024. Philippine Red Cross/Handout via REUTERS THIS IMAGE HAS BEEN SUPPLIED BY A THIRD PARTY. MANDATORY CREDIT. NO RESALES. NO ARCHIVES. Jim Gomez Sun 17 Nov 2024 at 09:42 A powerful typhoon wrecked houses, caused towering tidal surges and forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee to emergency shelters as it cut across the northern Philippines on Sunday in the sixth major storm to hit the country in less than a month. Israeli ground forces have reached their deepest point in Lebanon since they invaded six weeks ago, before pulling back after fierce battles with Hezbollah militants, Lebanese state media reported. Israeli troops captured a strategic hill in the southern Lebanese village of Chamaa, about 5km from the Israeli border yesterday morning, the state-run National News Agency reported. It said Israeli troops were later pushed back from the hill. Elon Musk's SpaceX will launch India's GSAT-20 communications satellite. Photo Courtesy: ISRO website Tech entrepreneur Elon Musk's SpaceX will launch India's GSAT-20 communications satellite this week, marking one more major achievement of the South Asian country in its space mission, media reports said. This is going to be the first collaboration between Space X and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The launch is scheduled for November 19, 2024, from Cape Canaveral, Florida, using SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket, reported India Today. Radhakrishnan Durairaj, Chairman and Managing Director of New Space India Ltd (NSIL), the Bengaluru-based commercial arm of ISRO, told NDTV, "We got a good deal on this maiden launch with SpaceX." "The price for launching this particular satellite... the technical compatibility and also the commercial deals... I would say it was a good deal for us, for launching such a heavy satellite on SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket," he said. GSAT-N2 (GSAT-20) is a Ka-band High throughput communication satellite of New Space India Limited (NSIL), a Government of India company under the Department of Space and the commercial arm of ISRO. GSAT-N2 is the 2nd Demand Driven satellite of NSIL. GSAT-N2 is set to enhance broadband services and in-flight connectivity (IFC) across the Indian region. This satellite, featuring multiple spot beams and wideband Ka x Ka transponders, aims to support a large subscriber base with small user terminals, significantly boosting system throughput through its multi-beam architecture which allows frequency reuse, read the ISRO website. GSAT-N2, with a lift-off mass of 4700 kg, has a mission life of 14 years. The satellite is equipped with 32 user beams, comprising 8 narrow spot beams over the Northeast region and 24 wide spot beams over the rest of India. These 32 beams will be supported by hub stations located within mainland India. The Ka-Band HTS communication payload provides a throughput of approximately 48 Gbps. The payload consists of three parabolic 2.5-meter deployable reflectors with multiple feeds generating 32 spot beams over the Indian region using a single feed per beam configuration. This is going to be a major collaboration between the two space organisations after the US voted Donald Trump to power for the second term. Elon Musk is close to Trump and the President-elect even nominated him to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Musk was a staunch supporter of Trump. He was also part of Trump's Republican Presidential campaign. Trump and Indian PM Narendra Modi shared a great bond and the Indian PM called him a 'friend' while wishing him after the recent Presidential poll victory. Modi posted on X: "Heartiest congratulations my friend @realDonaldTrump on your historic election victory." Manipur civil society gives 24-hour ultimatum to govt after mob attacks N Biren Singh's home.Photo courtesy: Videograb Imphal/IBNS: The Manipur government has been given a 24-hour ultimatum by civil society groups to take decisive action against armed militant groups. This comes after fresh unrest in Manipur on Saturday evening where a mob attempted to storm into the residence of Chief Minister N Biren Singh. Security forces had to deploy tear gas to disperse the mob, which gathered to protest the death of six missing people in the Jiribam district. Among those discovered dead were an infant and two women triggering the public outrage over the government's alleged inaction and lack of communication. The bodies, including that of an eight-month-old child, were recovered from the Barak River in Jiribam. These individuals had been missing since Monday, following violent clashes in which 10 armed Kuki men were killed during gunfight with security forces. Meanwhile, the Manipur government has urged the Centre to review and revoke the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), a contentious law granting extensive powers to security forces, recently reinstated in six police station jurisdictions of the state. The Ministry of Home Affairs reimposed AFSPA on November 14 in areas under Sekmai and Lamsang police stations in Imphal West, Lamlai in Imphal East, Moirang in Bishnupur, Leimakhong in Kangpokpi, and Jiribam in Jiribam district. According to an NDTV report, protesters attempted to storm Chief Minister N. Biren Singh's residence on Saturday evening, escalating tensions further. The Centre has deployed additional security forces and pledged firm action against violence from both sides. However, calls for peace are yet to quell the mounting unrest. Since May last year, Manipur has witnessed inter-communal clashes that have claimed over 250 lives and displaced approximately 60,000 people. The violence stems from disputes over government grants and quotas in jobs and education, leaving the state divided over ethnic claims of land ownership and rightsMeiteis controlling the valley and Kukis dominating the hills. Over the last 24 hours, mobs targeted the residences of several other lawmakers. In one incident, protesters attacked the home of MLA Sapam Nishikant Singh, damaging the gate and bunkers. Another group stormed the residence of MLA RK Imo in Imphal Wests Sagolband, setting furniture on fire and smashing windows, according to the report. Protests also erupted in Imphals Khwairamband Keithel against the kidnapping and murder of the six victims. The bodies were discovered near a river in the remote Jirimukh village in Jiribam district, close to the Manipur-Assam border, on Friday evening. Nepal operates 244 outposts, while India operates over 400 posts at Nepal-India border. (Photo Courtesy : Wallpaper cave) Kathmandu: The eighth annual Nepal-India border security coordination meeting began in Kathmandu on Saturday, addressing rising concerns over the movement of third-country nationals across the porous border shared by the two nations, media reports said. The talks were led by Nepal's Armed Police Force (APF) Inspector General Raju Aryal and India's Sashastra Seema Bal Director General Amrit Mohan Prasad. Discussions focused on nationals from countries such as China, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, according to The Kathmandu Post. Indian officials raised concerns over the presence of Chinese and Pakistani nationals near the border, while Nepal highlighted issues related to the increasing influx of Rohingya refugees and Bangladeshi nationals, particularly amid political unrest in Bangladesh. Both sides acknowledged the need for enhanced collaboration to address these challenges and ensure better border management. A senior Nepali security official attending the meeting stated that Indian officials had pointed out the movement of Chinese and Pakistani nationals along the shared border. "We also raised concerns about the influx of Rohingya refugees and Bangladeshi nationals entering Nepal following recent political unrest in Bangladesh," the official added. Rishi Ram Tiwari, spokesperson for Nepal's Ministry of Home Affairs, said the meeting covered a broad spectrum of issues, including human trafficking, cross-border criminal activities, and enhancing coordination between the two border agencies. "We discussed a slew of issues related to the boundary, border management, human trafficking, and improving coordination in border areas," Tiwari remarked, reported The Kathmandu Post. The Indo-Nepal annual meetings have been held since 2012. The two nations aim to address mutual security concerns, including drug trafficking, smuggling, and corruption, on this platform. The security agencies of India and Nepal joint are looking to enhance patrolling, maintaining boundary pillars, and strengthening communication between the two sides. The Armed Police Force (APF) has set up 244 outposts along the Nepal-India border, while India operates over 400 posts, according to officials. Apart from border security, the meeting also delved into joint preparations for natural disasters, with both sides agreeing to collaborate by sharing resources and manpower to tackle emergencies affecting border regions. "We are prioritizing effective communication and timely information sharing between the two security agencies to address this ongoing challenge," a security official stated, as reported by The Kathmandu Post. The meeting will continue till Monday during which the two nations will work on strengthening partnership on various fronts and arrest cross-border terrorism and infiltration from both sides. Narendra Modi meeting Nigerian President Bola Tinubu. Photo Courtesy: Narendra Modi X page Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has conferred the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) upon Indian PM Narendra Modi who is currently visiting the country. The Order of the Niger (OON) is the second-highest national award in Nigeria. Modi arrived in Nigeria on Saturday on the first leg of his three-nation tour. Meanwhile, Modi met President Tinubu on Sunday when the two leaders discussed scope for ties in sectors including defence, energy, technology, trade, health, education. Honoured to be conferred with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger Award by Nigeria. I accept it with great humility and dedicate it to the people of India. https://t.co/AyQ6v4EotH Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2024 After his meeting, Modi said his discussion with the President was 'productive'. "Had a very productive discussion with President Tinubu. We talked about adding momentum to our strategic partnership. There is immense scope for ties to flourish even further in sectors like defence, energy, technology, trade, health, education and more," Modi wrote on X. Had a very productive discussion with President Tinubu. We talked about adding momentum to our strategic partnership. There is immense scope for ties to flourish even further in sectors like defence, energy, technology, trade, health, education and more. @officialABAT pic.twitter.com/2i4JuF9CkX Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2024 This is the first visit by a Prime Minister of India to Nigeria in 17 years. India and Nigeria have been strategic partners since 2007 with growing economic, energy and defence collaboration. More than 200 Indian companies have invested over USD 27 billion in important sectors in Nigeria. India and Nigeria also share a strong development cooperation partnership. Indian PM Narendra Modi meets Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Photo Courtesy: PIB Indian PM Narendra Modi on Sunday met Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu when they discussed ways to further strengthen Strategic Partnership between the two nations. Narendra Modi is on a State Visit to Nigeria from 17-18 November 2024. Upon arrival at the State House, the Prime Minister was accorded a ceremonial welcome with a 21-gun salute. The two leaders had a restricted meeting which was followed by delegation-level talks. During his meeting with the President, Modi noted that the two countries enjoy special bonds of friendship defined by a shared past, common democratic values and strong people-to-people ties. Thank you Nigeria for a productive visit, which will add strength and vigour to India-Nigeria friendship. pic.twitter.com/hoHjAcFa36 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2024 Modi conveyed his sympathies to President Tinubu for the destruction caused by the recent floods in the country. "President Tinubu thanked Prime Minister for Indias timely assistance with relief material and medicines," read a statement issued by the Indian government. Honoured to be conferred with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger Award by Nigeria. I accept it with great humility and dedicate it to the people of India. https://t.co/AyQ6v4EotH Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2024 The two leaders reviewed the ongoing bilateral cooperation and discussed ways to further strengthen India-Nigeria Strategic Partnership. Expressing satisfaction at the progress of ties, they agreed that there was immense potential for collaboration in the fields of trade, investment, education, energy, health, culture, and people-to-people ties. The Prime Minister offered Indias experience in agriculture, transportation, affordable medicine, renewable energy, and digital transformation to Nigeria. President Tinubu appreciated the development cooperation partnership offered by India and its meaningful impact in creating local capacities, skills, and professional expertise. Had a very productive discussion with President Tinubu. We talked about adding momentum to our strategic partnership. There is immense scope for ties to flourish even further in sectors like defence, energy, technology, trade, health, education and more. @officialABAT pic.twitter.com/2i4JuF9CkX Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2024 The two leaders also discussed enhancing defence and security cooperation. They reaffirmed their commitment to jointly fighting terrorism, piracy and radicalisation. The two leaders also discussed global and regional issues. President Tinubu acknowledged India's efforts to amplify the concerns of developing countries through the Voice of the Global South Summits. The two leaders agreed to work together to meet the development aspirations of the Global South. Prime Minister appreciated the role played by Nigeria as the Chair of ECOWAS and its contribution to multilateral and plurilateral bodies. Alluding to Nigerias membership of the International Solar Alliance and the International Big Cat Alliance, Prime Minister invited President Tinubu to join other pro-planet green initiatives launched by India. Healthcare, services, and technology sectors have been hit the most due to insufficient workers. (Photo courtesy: Samuel Hagger via Unsplash) Berlin: The German government said Sunday it plans to issue over 10% more professional visas in 2024, aiming to fill its 1.34 million job vacancies and tackle chronic labour shortages, news agency AFP reported. The increase follows last year's liberalisation of immigration rules and the introduction of a Canada-inspired points-based system. In 2024, 200,000 professional visas will be issued, along with a 20% rise in student visas and a doubling of apprenticeship visas. Foreign qualification recognition has also surged nearly 50%, the government statement revealed. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said the reforms aim to attract the skilled workers and professionals urgently needed by Europe's largest economy. The points system, which considers criteria like German language skills, professional experience, and age, may also aloow non-EU nationals to bring their families. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasised the need for further reforms to address the annual shortfall of 400,000 workers, particularly in sectors like healthcare, services, and technology. While immigration has boosted employment by 1.6 million in five years, with 89% of new jobs filled by foreigners, it remains a divisive issue in Germany. The far-right is leveraging the topic ahead of legislative elections following the collapse of the coalition government. Without contributions from non-Germans, employment levels in Germany would have declined in 2023, underlining the critical role of immigration in sustaining the economy. The Telangana government had cautioned the organisers of Diljit Dosanjh's concert in Hyderabad that songs that encourage violence, drugs, and alcohol would not be played during the concert. This prompted Diljit to change the lyrics of some of his songs. In a video that is now going viral, Diljit can be heard changing the lyrics from 'Tenu teri daru ch pasand lemonade' to 'Tenu teri coke ch pasand lemonade.' He went on to change the lyrics '5 Taara thekke utthe to '5 Taara hotel ch'. Diljit Dosanjh changes lyrics during Hyderabad concert - Watch The video of him performing while changing lyrics has gone viral and people can't stop reacting to it. One wrote, The way he and his team tweaked the lyrics last minute to adhere to the legal guidelines is worth applauding. Another added, Telangana Government really thought they could water down Diljit's vibe. A third went on to add, Govt said can't use daru then jatt said ok daru=coke. Diljit reacts to people trolling woman for crying during his concert At his concert, Diljit also told the audience that if you're insulting her, you're insulting the nation's daughter. He was quoted saying, "Inna da apmaan karrahe ho, tussi desh di beti da apmaan karrae ho, main tenu das diya gal. Furthermore, because loud noises and flashing lights during a concert are detrimental to children, the Telangana government prohibited the musician from bringing children onstage for his performance. On October 26, Diljit Dosanjh's 11-city Dil-Luminati tour got underway in New Delhi. Also read: Diljit Dosanjh slams trolls for mocking crying fan at Jaipur concert For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. Allu Arjun is one of the biggest names in the Telugu film industry. He enjoys a strong fan following because of his charismatic personality and powerful performances. Bunny is now in the limelight for a sweet reason. During his appearance on Nandamuri Balakrishns talk show, the Pushpa star praised Mahesh Babu and pointed out that Prince has often bounced back after failures. Allu Arjun lauds Mahesh Babu Allu Arjun recently appeared on Balakrishnas talk show and opened up about matters close to his heart. During the conversation, the DJ actor praised Mahesh Babu for managing to raise the standards of Telugu cinema. He also said that the Spyder star has bounced back from failure on several occasions. His comeback after failures is excellent, and thats something I admire about him. Mahesh is also a true cinema lover and he was one of the actors who raised the standards in Telugu cinema, he said. Mahesh Babu has been an integral part of Telugu cinema for nearly three decades. During his illustrious career, he has starred in blockbusters such as Pokiri and Businessman and proved his mettle. The actor, who is married to Namrata Shirodhkar, is considered to be a true family man. On the work front Coming back to Allu Arjiun, he is gearing up for the release of Pushpa 2. The film is directed by Sukumar and features Bunny in the role of a smuggler. The films cast includes Rashmika Mandanna, Fahadh Faasil, Sunil, and Anasuya Bharadwaj. Sreeleela has a special appearance in the film. Mahesh Babu, on the other hand, is gearing up to begin work on SSMB 29. The film will be directed by SS Rajamouli. The biggie is billed as an adventure drama. It will hit the screens in multiple languages in a few years time. This will be Super Stars first release after Guntur Kaaram. The action drama film was directed by Trivikram Srinivas and hit the screens this Sankranti. Upon release, it received negative reviews and ended up being a flop. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. The journey of pregnancy is like a roller coaster ride for all mothers-to-be when they experience major changes in their bodies ranging from mental to physical health. There are also situations such as infections or other pregnancy complications that may require early induction of labour or caesarean birth, and this is the reason why premature babies are born. To observe World Prematurity Day, let's understand why it happens and how to care for the premature baby. If you go by the trends, the rate of preterm births or premature babies has increased in the recent past. In India, around 3.02 million preterm births took place in 2020, which is the highest across the globe, accounting for over 20 per cent of all the premature births taking place in the world, according to a report published in The Lancet. However, to determine the main causes and mechanisms behind preterm birth, more research is required, but the arrival of a preemie can bring both joy and anxiety for parents, as these little ones need specialised care and support. A premature baby, often referred to as a preemie, is born before completing the typical nine months in the womb. Due to their early arrival, preemies are at a higher risk of experiencing various health complications. Factors contributing to premature birth can include multiple pregnancies (twins or triplets), severe infections, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and substance abuse, says Dr. Amit P. Ghawade, Consultant-Pediatrinist and Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Kharghar, Mumbai. The number of babies born prematurely across the world encounters a host of health problems and potential long-term growth issues. Health challenges premature babies face Premature babies often face health challenges such as underdeveloped lungs, delicate skin, and immature immune systems, making optimal aftercare crucial once they transition from the NICU to home. Dr. Nitu Mundhra, Consultant Neonatologist and Lactation Expert, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, explains, Caring for a premature baby goes beyond the hospital walls, and parents will have to be attentive, as these little warriors need special care even at home. Parents must follow skin-to-skin contact or kangaroo care, which not only boosts bonding but also enhances the baby's heart rate and breathing by comforting the little one. Kangaroo care is crucial for the baby and should be followed without a gap for at least 6 months. The mothers should establish a consistent feeding routine, which is crucial for preemies, who often have unique nutritional needs due to their lower birth weight or underdeveloped systems. Here are essential aftercare tips to ensure your premature baby receives the best care possible while navigating this challenging journey. Aftercare Tips for premature babies Create a Stable Environment: It is essential to create stable and calm surroundings for a premature baby. It is imperative to ensure that the baby is in a quiet space with dim lighting as too much light in the room can irritate their sensitive eyes. Moreover, it is also important to note that premature babies are more sound-sensitive hence, try to limit unnecessary noise in the room. Kangaroo Care: Kangaroo care means maintaining skin-to-skin contact with the baby for longer periods. At least an hour of kangaroo care daily is essential. This practice enhances the loving connection between both the mother and the baby. As well as, it helps in regulating the body's temperature, heart rate and breathing problems. Breastfeeding Support: Many mothers usually face the major issue in breastfeeding a premature baby due to their early arrival. Hence, if direct breastfeeding is difficult then consider pumping regularly to provide breast milk. Limit Visitors: While the arrival of a newborn is an exciting time, it's important to limit visitors to protect your baby's health. The first few weeks are critical for their development, and too many visitors can be overwhelming. Ensure that anyone who visits washes their hands thoroughly with soap or sanitiser before touching the baby. Monitor Temperature: Preemie babies may struggle with temperature regulation. Use a reliable thermometer to monitor your baby's temperature regularly. Keep the room at a comfortable temperature and dress your baby in layers to help maintain warmth. Follow-up with Healthcare Providers: Following up with doctors and caregivers is very important as these appointments help check the baby's growth and development and allow for early identification of any potential health diseases. Be Aware of Developmental Milestones: As parents, it is better to keep a close eye on your baby's development and growth, and then discuss any concerns with your doctor. Educate Yourself on CPR and First Aid: It is imperative to learn basic infant CPR and first aid that can help parents and caregivers to effectively respond to emergencies. Encourage developmental activities: Try to engage in development activity classes with your baby. These activities may help in improving their motor skills. Join Support Groups: It is always a better idea to connect with other parents of premature babies so that they can offer some emotional support and advice for betterment. Following these aftercare tips, parents can significantly enhance the quality of care for their premature babies and may also ensure a healthier and more thriving start to life. For more on lifestyle, astrology and health from around the world please visit Indiatimes Lifestyle. South Korean actor Woo Do-hwan seems to have mesmerised K-drama fans with his tanned skin and sweet smile in Netflix's new show Mr. Plankton, which premiered on the streaming giant on 8 November 2024. With a boost in his social media fan following and viral edits on fan pages, it's safe to say Woo Do-hwan is the internet's new boyfriend. So, if you, like us, also can't get enough of the K-drama star, we've curated a list of Woo Do-hwan's top dramas to stream online. 1. Tempted (2018) Hailed as Woo Do-hwan's breakout role, get a glimpse of Mr Plankton's extended bad-boy persona in this charming drama, also known as The Great Seducer. The story revolves around Choi Soo-ji (Woo Do-hwan), a charming and wealthy university student who makes a dangerous bet with his friends to seduce Eun Tae-hee (Red Velvet's Joy), a beautiful and intelligent young woman from a humble background. Where to watch: Prime Video 2. Bloodhounds (2023) Woo Do-hwan played the lead role of Choi Soo-ho in the Netflix series based on a webtoon of the same name. A testament to his versatility, the K-drama garnered attention for its gripping storyline, intense action sequences, and strong performances. The crime thriller chronicled his journey as a young and ambitious prosecutor determined to bring down a corrupt financial institution. He teams up with a group of investigators to uncover the truth behind a massive fraud case. Where to watch: Netflix 3. Joseon Attorney (2023) In this wicked tale of twisted fate, Woo Do-hwan captivated fans with his intense portrayal of an attorney based in the Joseon era. Driven by a thirst for vengeance, Kang Han-soo (Woo Do-hwan), a feisty lawyer, arrives in Hanyang with a hidden agenda: to seek revenge against his parents' killers. He initially exploits the legal system to bring down Jang, a key culprit; however, after a series of events, he undergoes many challenges to become the true advocate for justice. Where to watch: Prime Video 4. The King: Eternal Monarch (2020) Woo Do-hwan played the role of Jo Yeong, the ruthless and ambitious Prince Wonbeom, in the 2020 SBS drama The King: Eternal Monarch. He was the twin brother of Emperor Lee Gon (Lee Min-ho), who was willing to undertake any obstacle to claim the throne. Despite Lee Min-ho's charming portrayal of Lee Gon, it was Woo Do-hwan's poignant performance in this historical show that stole the limelight. Where to watch: Netflix 5. Mad Dog (2017) Woo Do-hwan garnered immense praise for his portrayal of Choi Kang-woo in this 2017 drama, showcasing his versatility as an actor. The drama follows Choi Kang-woo (Woo Do-hwan), a former detective turned insurance investigator, who loses his family members in a plane crash. Along with a team of those who faced the same tragedy, he embarks on a journey to discover the truths behind the accident and uncover insurance crimes. Where to watch: Prime Video, Viki 6. My Country: The New Age (2019) Set During the transitional period between the end of the Goryeo dynasty and the beginning of the Joseon dynasty, the drama follows two friends, Seo Hwi (Yang Se-jong) and Nam Sun-ho (Woo Do-hwan), who find themselves on opposite sides of a bitter conflict. However, their goals remain common: to protect their own people. The drama was lauded for its accurate portrayal of power struggles, politics, social hierarchy and class. Where to watch: Netflix 7. Save Me Woo Do-hwan played the role of Sang-hwan, a skilled fighter, who reunites with his gang to save a former classmate whose family begins to get involved with a cult after her brother's suicide. The K-drama garnered critical acclaim for its gripping storyline, thought-provoking narrative and commendable performances from the star cast. Where to watch: Prime Video For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. Bank Holidays 2024: November 20, 2024, is an important day for Maharashtra as state assembly elections will take place. To support this democratic event, the state government has declared it a public holiday. This decision will impact various services, including banks. Here's everything you need to know about this holiday. Public Holiday Announced for Maharashtra Elections The Maharashtra government has officially declared Wednesday, November 20, 2024, as a public holiday. This holiday is aimed at making it easier for citizens to cast their votes during the state assembly elections. As part of this decision, schools, colleges, government offices and related organisations across the state will remain closed. Banks Closed on November 20 Credit: BCCL As per the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) holiday schedule, banks in Maharashtra will also remain closed on November 20, 2024. While physical bank branches will not be open, customers can still access essential banking services through mobile and online banking platforms. Authorities Encourage Voter Participation To ensure maximum voter turnout, Bhushan Gagrani, the district election officer and municipal commissioner for Mumbai, has urged businesses within the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) area to grant employees time off to vote. He also warned that businesses failing to follow the Election Commission of India's (ECI) guidelines may face penalties. Dry Days During Elections Credit: BCCL Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra will observe dry days around the elections. To ensure smooth and peaceful voting, the Election Commission has banned the sale of alcohol during this period. Dry days are common during elections, religious festivals, and cultural events to maintain law and order. Holiday Impact on Daily Life The public holiday on November 20 also applies to employees working under the BMC. With banks, businesses, and offices closed, the day allows citizens to fulfil their civic duty and participate in the voting process. Plan Ahead for November With several bank holidays in November, including the one on November 20, residents are encouraged to plan their financial activities. Digital banking services like mobile apps and internet banking will remain operational and can be used for urgent transactions. As Maharashtra gears up for elections, make sure you are prepared for the upcoming bank holidays and take this opportunity to exercise your right to vote. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending. Kanakadasa Jayanthi 2024: Kanakadasa Jayanthi is a public holiday in Karnataka is being celebrated on Monday, November 18th this year. This day marks the birth anniversary of the renowned poet, Shri Kanakadasa, and is observed as Kanakadasa Jayanthi by the Government of Karnataka. Kanakadasa Jayanthi falls on the 18th day of Kartik Month as per the Hindu Lunar Calendar. Shri Kanaka Dasa, a celebrated figure in Carnatic music, was a gifted writer, poet, composer, and social reformer. He made significant contributions to Carnatic music and is remembered as a key influencer of this rich tradition. What is Kanakadasa Jayanthi? Credit: X Kanakadasa Jayanthi is a cultural festival that holds great importance in Karnataka. It unites people to honour Kanakadasa, the revered saint, poet, and philosopher. On this day, various events are held throughout the state, including lectures about Kanakadasa's life and works, bhajans, and musical performances. Who Was Kanakadasa? Kanakadasa (15091606) was a revered saint, poet, philosopher and one of the greatest devotees of Lord Krishna (Vishnu) from Karnataka, India. He followed Madhvacharya's Dvaita Vedanta philosophy and was a disciple of Vyasatirtha. Often referred to as Daasashreshta Kanakadasa, he was known for his devotional compositions in Kannada, including keertanas and ugabhoga for Carnatic music. Like other Haridasas, he used simple Kannada and local poetic styles in his works. Born into a Kannada-speaking family in Baada village, near Bankapura in Karnataka, Kanakadasa initially served as a warrior at the Bankapura fort. He was educated by Srinivasacharya and gained expertise in tarka (logic), vyakarana (grammar), and mimamsa (interpretation of scriptures) at a young age. According to one of his writings, Kanakadasa was injured in battle and turned to chanting the name of Lord Hari (Krishna) for solace. In a significant moment, a beggar appeared before him and revealed himself as Lord Hari. Lord Hari offered Kanakadasa three wishes: - To heal his injuries. - To appear whenever Kanakadasa called him. - To grant him a vision in his true form. These wishes were granted, and upon witnessing the Lord's original form, Kanakadasa was awestruck. This experience led him to abandon his life as a soldier and dedicate himself to music, literature, and spreading devotion to Lord Hari. Some of his notable early works include Narasimha Stotra, Ramadhyana Mantra, and Mohanatarangini. Kanakadasa had a strong connection to Udupi, where he was a disciple of Vyasatirtha. However, due to caste discrimination, the temple priests denied him entry to the mutt (monastery). Legend has it that the idol of Krishna in the temple turned to face Kanakadasa, symbolising divine acceptance. This miraculous event is remembered as a significant part of his life. Kanakadasa often used the phrase "Kagineleya Adikeshava" as his signature, referring to the deity of his birthplace, Kaginele. Why is Kanakadasa Jayanthi Celebrated? Kanakadasa Jayanthi is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in Karnataka, especially among the Kuruba Gowda community. However, its importance is recognised across the entire state, and it is observed as a regional public holiday. This day honours Kanakadasa, a revered saint and musician known for his epic compositions such as Keertanas and Ugabhoga. The celebration highlights his exceptional contributions to literature and music, focusing on the timeless messages of peace and equality conveyed through his works. Kanakadasa's Devotional Works Kanakadasa composed many devotional songs and poems, which remain cherished to this day. Some of his most notable works include: - Mohanatarangini - Nalacharite - Ramadhanya Charite - Haribhakti Sara His songs beautifully express devotion and guide people towards a path of spirituality and faith. How to Celebrate Kanakadasa Jayanthi There are several meaningful ways to celebrate Kanakadasa Jayanthi, including: - Attending talks and lectures about Kanakadasa's life and contributions. - Participating in bhajan sessions or enjoying musical concerts. - Visiting Kanakadasa's samadhi in Hampi. - You can also celebrate by reading his works, listening to his songs, and embracing the teachings he shared. A Day of Pride for Kannada People Kanakadasa Jayanthi is a source of pride for the Kannada community. On this day, people take the opportunity to learn about his life, reflect on his teachings, and honour his legacy through various cultural and spiritual activities. Kanakadasa Jayanthi holiday Schools across Karnataka will observe holidays, to commemorate the birth anniversary of Kanakadasa tomorrow, November 18th due to Kanakadasa Jayanthi. Best Happy Kanakadasa Jayanthi 2024 Wishes, Messages, and Quotes to Share with Your Loved Ones As we celebrate his birth anniversary, let us remember the remarkable Kanakadasa, who stood for peace and equality in society. Share these Happy Kanakadasa Jayanthi wishes, greetings, messages, images, and WhatsApp statuses with your friends and family to honour the enduring legacy of this great figure. - Wishing you and your family a very Happy Kanakadasa Jayanthi 2024. - May Kanakadasa inspire you to achieve your dreams and bless you with peace, good health, wealth, happiness, and prosperity. - Let the teachings and songs of Kanakadasa bring joy, peace, and success into your life. Wishing you a wonderful Kanakadasa Jayanthi 2024. - Be inspired by Kanakadasa's message of peace, equality, and harmony. - Paying tribute to the great writer, poet, and philosopher for his unmatched contributions to society. Honouring Kanakadasa on this special day. - Happy Kanakadasa Jayanthi to you and your loved ones. - Wishing you peace, happiness, and good health this Kanakadasa Jayanthi. Stay blessed. - Warm greetings to all on the occasion of Dasa Shrestha Kanakadasa Jayanti. - Sending heartfelt wishes to all my friends and devotees on Bhakta Sri Kanakadasa Jayanti. - May your Kanakadasa Jayanthi be filled with peace, health, wealth, and joy. - On this special day, wishing you endless peace, happiness, and blessings. Stay well. - Celebrate Kanakadasa's message of love, peace, and unity. May his greatness inspire you always. - May eternal peace, good health, and happiness surround you this Kanakadasa Jayanthi. - Let us celebrate the life and teachings of the eminent poet Santa Shrestha Kavi Kanakadasa. Happy Kanakadasa Jayanti to everyone! - Embrace devotion and humility as we honour the birth anniversary of the great saint Kanakadasa. - May Kanakadasa's blessings bring prosperity and happiness to you and your family. - Kanakadasa's legacy shines through his inspiring kirtanas and teachings, encouraging us to seek the divine within. - On this day, let us honour Kanakadasa's immense contribution to Kannada literature and devotional music. - Celebrate the life and teachings of Kanakadasa, who spread love, devotion, and equality through his work. - Wishing everyone a Happy Kanakadasa Jayanthi. - "Bagilanu teredu seveyanu kodo hariye" remember the great devotion of Kanakadasa on his Jayanti. - Heartfelt Kanakadasa Jayanti wishes to all my dear friends. - Warm wishes to everyone on the birth anniversary of Santa Shrestha Kavi Kanakadasa. - Honouring Kanakadasa, the greatest among Dasas, on his Jayanti. - Heartfelt wishes to all as we celebrate Dasa Shrestha Kanakadasa Jayanti. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending. remained as center-right NDs president until July 5, 2015, announcing his resignation on the heels of a controversial referendum asking voters whether they approved or not of a new bailout agreement with institutional creditors. The no vote carried the day by a margin of 2 to 1. News / National by Stephen Jakes In the media cycles, questions are being asked whether the mining media awards are a genuine cause made by the sponsors or a scandal that needs to be exposed.This is because every year, the winners of the awards have complained in one way or another about how they have been used to portray the mining sector and the organisers of the awards as doing well, yet the awards given to journalists in the form of money are a serious pittance.Just on Friday (15 November) yet another event to give awards to the scribe was conducted at the Cresta Oisis Hotel in Harare where some journalists drawn from both the public and the private media got the gongs and purportedly on cash.But indications were that those who were announced as winners only got medals and certificates while they were promised that money would be transfered to their accounts.However, indications are that this is the tradition that occurs almost every year prompting most senior journalists to shun making entries.One senior journalist who once made an entry and won several awards described the events of presentation of awards as a misrepresentation of what transpire in the background.He said a year ago he was announced a winner but was only given US$75 out of the awards money he was promised to get."These awards are a waste of time and insult to the profession. They portray us as do desperate and destitute. I sometime won the award but was given US$75. I will never was my time any more to submit entries for that rubbish," said the senior journalist."Who ever is playing with our lives and time must stop. We are not children. They can not pretend to be rewarding us when they abuse us emotional by announcing us as winners and give us nothing. We under stand that sponsors put money there but some one must be spinning that money and diverting it to other things and giving journalists pittancy."Another senior journalist who was once announced as winners said he will never ever waste his time entering the awards. He said when one is announced a winner it does not mean that any reasonable money will reach his pocket."Instead you are told the money will come soon. The other is paid in local currency the other small amount is paid in US$ but this is after a long wait. Last time when I won in November I got the money the following year in February and to discover that in local currency it lost value and in US$ it was very insiginificant," he said.Journalists suspect foul play and want sponsors to know their displeasure.They were also concerns that the organisers also invite people whom they know would not win and do not want to take care of them instead of inviting those that have won."Why do you invite someone who has obviously not won and not want to full cater for that person after wasting that person's time? They do not respect journalists, they treat us any how they want," he said.On Friday Raymond Jaravaza of Bulawayo Zimpapers was announced an over all winner after winning three awards. Others who won was Tatenda Chitagu, Mthandazo Nyoni of Newsday while Clayton Masekesa scooped several runners up awards.Several mining firms such as Zimplats among others sponsored te awards.Most of the senior journalists have since withdrew their participation from the awards describing them as a waste of time and energy. Bobrisky, a Nigerian crossdresser, has filed a lawsuit against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the National Assembly, alleging violations of his fundamental rights. The crossdresser has been at the centre of controversy since activist VeryDarkMan posted an alleged audio conversation in which he claimed to have bribed some EFCC officials N15 million to drop money laundering allegations against him. Bobrisky was given a six-month prison sentence on April 12 for abusing the naira, and was released on August 5. Advertisement In the alleged audio, the crossdresser further claimed that his godfather, along with Haliru Nababa, controller-general of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), made sure he served the six-month term in a private flat rather than a jail. Bobrisky rejected the recordings validity and vowed to sue VeryDarkMan. The House of Representatives joint committee on financial crimes and reformatory institutions decided to investigate the bribery allegations. It also invited VeryDarkMan, Bobrisky, Ola Olukoyode, the EFCC chairman, and Nababa to appear before the committee. The social media personality, who did not appear before the committee, was arrested on October 21 at the Seme border for reportedly attempting to exit the country and was subsequently released. On November 1, the crossdresser was apprehended again by EFCC officials while attempting to flee Nigeria. READ MORE: I Was Accused Of Using Mohbads Death For Clout Iyabo Ojo A video posted on Instagram showed airport officials taking him from the plane. The commission also acknowledged that he was re-arrested to help in the investigation of bribery charges against the agency, after which he ultimately left Nigeria on November 4. On Saturday, Bobrisky resorted to Instagram to share a court filing dated October 10 that prohibits the EFCC and national assembly from harassing, detaining, or declaring me wanted. In the case, Bobrisky alleged that the commission invited him to an investigation based on a hearsay WhatsApp phone call shared by VeryDarkMan. He further claimed that the EFCC failed to examine the recordings legitimacy, resulting in him being mocked on social media, receiving threats from unknown individuals, and having his privacy invaded. According to the petition, the crossdresser is seeking N200 million from the EFCC for psychotic trauma and N1 billion from the national assembly for violating my right to a fair hearing. The sum of one billion against the 1st respondent being damages for unlawful attempt to violate the right to fair hearing of the applicant, violate his right from discrimination, violate his right to private and family life, right to privacy of his home and telephone conversations, the document reads in part. The sum of two hundred million naira against the 2nd respondent being damages suffered, psychotically trauma, mental torture and criminal stigmatisation caused by the reckless report given by the 2nd respondent to the 1st respondent without any proper investigation and fair hearing stating that the doctored social media published audio by Verydarkman was true, having not carried out any formal and proper investigation by contacting WhatsApp and laying before the committee that the hearsay doctored evidence was confirmed to be true and authentic. The violation of the right of freedom of movement, right to privacy of his telecommunication. Bobrisky claimed in an accompanying caption that despite the court order, the EFCC and other security agencies continue to abuse his rights, causing his health to deteriorate. He also criticised the anti-graft agencys efforts, claiming that they were above the law. Notwithstanding the earlier filing of this fundamental rights matter the EFCC still violently assaulted and harassed me and pulled me out of a plane set for takoff, she wrote. The EFCC and other security agencies in Nigeria are violators of human rights and it is high time the world and the international community gets to know about their trademark of violation of freedom and rights. Without any order of court the minister of interior ordered the Nigeria immigration service and police to arrest and detain me which lead to my worsening illnesses. Then again the EFCC arrested and took me from their Lagos office to Abuja notwithstanding the pendency of this suit. It is a shame that the EFCC does not respect the court neither does any security agencies. They act above the law which they claim to protect and implement. The Edo State Police Command has rescued Grace Osamagbe, a 14-month-old baby who was kidnapped by her nanny, Rejoice Chukwu, in April. Umoru Ozigi, the states police commissioner, confirmed this to reporters on Saturday in Benin, the state capital. Ozigi said the anti-kidnapping and cybercrime section apprehended Chukwu, 24, and her lover, Destiny Uchechukwu, in Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State. Advertisement The police chief stated that the suspects kidnapped the infant in Benin and demanded a ransom of N160,000. READ MORE: Osun Police Apprehends Suspects For Alleged Armed Robbery, Rape, Military Impersonation In spite of receiving the ransom, the suspects allegedly sold the baby for N500,000 to Doris Chiwendu in Owerri, Imo State. Following intense interrogation, police tracked down Chiwendu and another suspect, Jane Amaigbo, in Ubomiri, Imo State, and rescued the baby on November 9, he said. He said the suspects would be charged in court soon. FirstBank, the premier West African financial institution and financial inclusion service provider just concluded its 6th annual edition Fintech Summit, themed Banking on Partnerships, The event was held on the 13th and 14th of November 2024 at the Lagos Continental hotel, Lagos. The event attracted a lot of industry leaders, stake holders, investors, innovators, and experts of the banking and fintech world. Several workshops and marketing trends were showcased and discussed at the event. A total number of 147 startups (innovators) applied for the madien edition of First Bank Fintech innovators Pitch Program. This program will grant winners with partnership, mentoring and investment in their products. However, out of this number only 10 innovators made it to the final round of the selection process. These innovators showcased their love for Fintech and easy banking with their solutions ranging from AI powered business automation systems, digital thrift to name a few. Advertisement The keynote speech was given by Mr. Emmanuel Daniel the Founder of TAB Global & Asian Banker. He emphasized on Banking on the Future: How Strategic Partnerships Can Foster Innovation and Growth. He shared insights on Banking on the Future-How Strategic Partnerships Can Foster Innovation and Growth and explored the critical metrics banks should prioritise, such as cost-to-income ratio, net interest margins, and net fee income, as indicators of operational efficiency and economic impact. Mr. Alebiosu Olusegun, the CEO of First Bank spoke about First Banks commitment to tech driven solutions and partnership during his presentation titled Digital banking and the Future. He further said that said some of the outcomes of the event would be to bring together some startups and connect them to investors and indeed partners, with some of them helping them grow their businesses. Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Commissioner, of Innovation Science and Technology, Lagos State Government, Olatubosun Alake said: I must commend the team at First Bank of Nigeria for putting together such a thoughtful and impactful event. This years theme, Banking on Partnerships, could not be more timely, especially when our industries, economy, and society are in desperate need of more value-creating collaborations, innovations, and shared solutions. The event featured a robust panel sessions that explored topics like Scaling for Success: Building Strong Alliances between Bank and FinTechs, Leveraging Complementary Strengths: Creating Structure for Fintech Synergy and from Seed to Scale: Investor Insights on Growing Fintech Startups. The first day of the summit (the 13th), featured a pitching session where the finalists presented their already-developed solutions to the distinguished panel. After careful deliberation and assessment, the winners were selected and awarded on the last day of the summit (the 14th). NearSwipe Limited claimed the top prize, while Middleman, a startup enabling seamless payments for African e-commerce businesses to suppliers in China, and Esusu Africa Limited, a digital thrift and credit banking platform, won N7.5 million and N5 million, respectively. The remaining seven finalists were not left empty handed as they each received N1 million to enhance their solutions. This innovative approach by First Bank has shown their zeal and willingness to groom the youths towards building a better and robust financial structure for the economy. The highlights of the day were the panel sessions where meaningful and insightful topics regarding banking and Fintech solutions were discussed. Opportunities to network and mingle with new innovators as well as old innovators in the economic space. Nigerias First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has appealed to market women in Ebonyi State not to increase prices of food items during the upcoming festive season. She made this plea on Saturday while addressing women at the 2024 Ebonyi Womens Day celebration in Abakaliki, the State capital. Oluremi Tinubu also inaugurated the 3.1-kilometer runway at the Wilberforce Chuba Okadigbo International Airport, praising Governor Francis Nwifuru for completing the project. Advertisement The First Lady noted that the airport will bring more socio-economic development to the State. During an interactive session with traditional rulers, Oluremi Tinubu emphasized Nigerias potential for greatness. With the Yuletide season fast approaching, the First Lady appealed to market women to refrain from unfair hikes in prices of food items during the festive season. READ ALSO: Ondo Guber: Very Shameful Exercise, We Cant Trust INEC PDP Candidate Nigeria has everything it takes for us to be a great nation. We have to continue to bless this land, and I appeal to you, our traditional rulers, to lead in that regard, she said. The First Lady commended Governor Nwifuru for exceeding the 35% target for female appointments, citing his deputy governor, secretary to the state government, and others as examples. She announced that the governor would empower 130 businesses with N1 million each as recapitalization grants. Additionally, Oluremis organization, RHI, donated N50 million, 20,000 wrappers, shoes, and bags to support womens businesses in the State. Governor Nwifuru expressed gratitude to the First Lady for her visit and the support received through the Renewed Hope Initiative. He acknowledged the significant contributions of Ebonyi women to the states development. Operatives of the Kaduna State Police Command, have arrested some individuals, suspected to be kidnappers, cattle rustlers and vandals across the state. This was contained in a statement on Saturday by the State Police Commands Spokesman, Mansir Hassan. Hassan said that officers of Operation Fushin Kada, nabbed six suspected kidnappers, one cattle rustler, five vandals and recovered firearms as well as charms from them. Advertisement He added that on November 12, 2024, security agents, also arrested four members of a notorious kidnapping syndicate operating in Rahama Village, Dutsen Wai Village, and surrounding areas. READ MORE: Three Suspected Kidnappers Apprehended In Kaduna The statement partly reads: During interrogation, Yahaya Abdullahi confessed to conspiring with Shamsu Ibrahim to kidnap a female victim from Rahama village. The victim was taken to Linus Obasis brothel, located in Gidan Dogo, Dutsen Wai Village, where she was handed over to Hauwa Mohammed, the caretaker of the hotel. The victim was held captive for four days until a ransom of N3m was paid before she was released and reunited with her family. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate at large and to recover their operational weapons. On November 13, 2024, officers from Operation Fushin Kada apprehended a 27-year-old male, Audu Abdullahi, in Kujama, Kaduna, who was found to be a member of a notorious cattle rustling syndicate. During interrogation, he confessed to being part of a syndicate that frequently carries out operations using two AK-47 rifles and other dangerous weapons. Hassan added that the police also arrested Salisu Mohammed, Mohammed Abubakar, and Aliyu Isah for vandalising armoured cable wires at the Kaduna State Trade Fair Complex. Hassan said: All suspects are residents of Hayin Naiya in Kaduna Metropolis. Upon interrogation, the suspects confessed to being members of a syndicate who specialises in vandalising armoured cable wires. Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed President Bola Tinubus unwavering commitment to transforming Nigerias economy, despite the countrys challenges. Speaking at a one-day retreat for presidential aides and heads of units in his office on Saturday, Shettima emphasized that President Tinubus policies have put the nations economy on a growth path. President Tinubu is determined to change the fortunes of the nation. We all want to bequeath to the younger generation a united and progressive country. Advertisement The economy is on an upward trajectory, and I believe in the new year, the economy will grow in leaps and bounds, Shettima said, highlighting the countrys current production of 1.8 million barrels of oil per day. READ ALSO: Tinubu Ordered Release Of #EndBadGovernance Protesters On Humanitarian Grounds Despite Evidences Shettima Shettima urged presidential aides to work together seamlessly to support President Tinubu in delivering on his mandate. The country is greater than all of us. I urge you, lets work as a team and as a family, he emphasized. The retreat aimed to foster synergy among aides, enhance strategic communication, streamline project funding and partnerships, and improve collaboration with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. Other key officials, including Deputy Chief of Staff to the President Sen. Hassan Hadejia and Special Adviser to the President on Political Matters Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, also stressed the importance of collaboration and strategic communication in achieving the presidencys goals. Minister of Works David Umahi has issued an ultimatum to contractors handling 10 federal road projects in Niger State, threatening to terminate contracts due to unnecessary delays. During a stakeholder meeting in Abuja, Umahi expressed displeasure over contractors attitudes despite receiving advance payments. Advertisement The Ministers stance aligns with the Renewed Hope administrations policy emphasizing speed, quality, and value for money. There would be consequences for contractors who collect money for projects and delay or do sub-standard jobs, he warned, as disclosed in a statement signed by the Special Adviser on Media to the Minister, Orji Uchenna, on Saturday. Some of the affected projects include the Agaje-Katcha-Baro road, dualization of Suleja-Lambata-Minna Road, and reconstruction of Bida-Lapai-Lambatta Road. He said that the contractors, after collecting the agreed payment, either failed to perform the work altogether or neglected their responsibilities, leading to significant delays and substandard construction, causing untold hardship to road users. READ ALSO: All Federal Highways Will Be Motorable By Christmas Umahi The statement read in part, In line with the policy direction of the Renewed Hope administration on all ongoing federal road projects across the nation, the Federal Ministry of Works has given an ultimatum to contractors handling the 10 inherited ongoing projects in Niger State to move to site without further delay and ensure quality and speedy delivery of the projects they contracted to do or risk termination of such contracts. Umahi directed the formation of a committee to interact with affected contractors and check their accounts before contract termination. The Niger State Government was also requested to recommend consultants for engineering design and supervision. The meeting presided over by the minister was attended by the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Bago, the Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, state assembly members, and the Senate Committee Chairman on Finance, Mohammed Sani, among other stakeholders. The Nigerian Navy has recorded significant successes in its ongoing efforts to combat oil theft and illegal refining activities in the Niger Delta region. This was revealed in a statement on its Facebook page on Saturday. As part of Operation DELTA SANITY, the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH discovered and dismantled an illegal refining site in Bayelsa States Paratuba area on November 13, 2024. Advertisement The site was found to be in possession of stolen crude oil, illegally refined products, wooden boats, and a pumping machine. READ MORE: Police Probe Identity Of Decomposed Body Found Near Transformer In Ebonyi The following day, November 14, 2024, the NNS SOROH patrol team intercepted two speedboats transporting sacks of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) from Oporoma to Swalli, also in Bayelsa State. In another operation, the Navy discovered an illegal refining site in Aguobiri, Bayelsa State, containing numerous sacks of illegally refined AGO and a tricycle loaded with illegally refined products. These successes demonstrate the Nigerian Navys commitment to protecting the countrys oil resources and combating illegal activities in the Niger Delta. The statement read, Operation DELTA SANITY: On Wednesday 13 November 2024, Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH discovered and deactivated an illegal refining site in possession of an unspecified amount of stolen Crude Oil, illegally refined products, wooden boats and a pumping machine in Paratuba general area, Bayelsa State. Additionally, on Thursday 14 November 2024, NNS SOROH patrol team intercepted 2 Speedboats conveying sacks of illegally refined AGO from Oporoma to Swalli, Bayelsa State. In another development, an illegal refining site in possession of numerous sacks of illegally refined AGO and a tricycle containing sacks of Illegally refined AGO was discovered in Aguobiri, Bayelsa State. SEE BELOW: Lead Counsel to Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Aloy Ejimakor, has urged President Bola Tinubu to honour United Nations over IPOBS case and Federal Government. Ejimakor said that Tinubu should not follow the footsteps of his predecessor, former president Muhammadu Buhari, who ignored the UNs orders to release Kanu. He recalled how the UN Rights Council Working Group directed Buharis government to release Kanu and compensate him in July 2022. Advertisement Ejimakor in a statement on Saturday, noted that Kanus case has moved from legal to political, hence the need for Tinubu to release Kanu. He said: In July 2022, the United Nations Human Rights Council (through a landmark Opinion issued by its Working Group) directed the Buhari-led Government of Nigeria to free Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and accord him a pathway to compensation for his infamous extraordinary rendition from Kenya to Nigeria in June 2021. READ MORE: Sowore Blames Igbo Elites For Nnamdi Kanus Prolonged Detention The 17-page Opinion, in its Disposition (or conclusion) states that: The Working Group considers that, taking into account all the circumstances of the case, the appropriate remedy would be for the Government of Nigeria to release Mr Kanu immediately and accord him an enforceable right to compensation and other reparations, in accordance with international law. As a background, the Working Group of the United Nations Human Rights Council is a quasi-judicial body that has the legal mandate of the United Nations to receive and adjudicate human rights petitions against member nations of the UN. Accordingly, its Decisions (diplomatically called Opinions) are legally binding on all member nations of the United Nations, including Nigeria. In addition to Nigeria being a bonafide member of the United Nations, this very UN decision on Mazi Kanu is primarily predicated on the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, by which Nigeria is legally bound by virtue of its ratification by an Act of the National Assembly under Section 12 of the Nigerian Constitution. It goes without saying, therefore that, as a bonafide member of the United Nations and a treaty-bound nation, Nigeria is subject to decisions issuing from the United Nations. Thus, Nigeria is duty-bound to implement this decision in its black letters and spirit. And it was expected to do so promptly. Therefore, unlike a misguided Buhari, a wiser President Tinubu can do the right thing by freeing Mazi Nnamdi Kanu without further ado. He does not need any court order to do so because the matter has transformed from the legal or judicial to the political. And as the saying goes, the buck stops at the Presidents table. Candidate of the ruling All Progressive Congress in the November 16th governorship election in Ondo State, Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa, has vowed to concede defeat on one condition. Briefing newsmen after casting his vote at polling unit 05, Igbo ward 4, Obenla in Ilaje Local Government Area of the state, Aiyedatiwa said that he will surrender to who ever is declared winner of the poll as long as the exercise not marred by irregularities. Speaking further, the incumbent Governor also said that the election has been peaceful in many LGAs. Advertisement READ MORE: Ondo Guber: Very Shameful Exercise, We Cant Trust INEC PDP Candidate He said: If the outcome of the poll does not favour my party (APC), as long as we did not receive any report that it (poll) was fraudulent in any way. Why not? We will accept defeat. But if we notice any practices and non-compliance of the procedures. The only thing is to go to the tribunal to challenge that. By and large, if it goes that way, I will accept the outcome of the election. INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that Independent National Electoral Commission, has uploaded over 90 percentage of results on its website. Ayedatiwa of APC and Peoples Democratic Partys candidate, Ajayi Agboola, are considered as major candidate. News / National by Staff Reporter A 34-year-old employee at Mpilo Central Hospital has been sentenced to 12 months in prison after being found guilty of stealing mobile phones from patients while they were in a vulnerable state. The court heard that the employee took advantage of the patients' illness to commit the thefts, resulting in his conviction on three counts of theft.However, the court also imposed a conditional sentence, allowing the accused to serve 315 hours of community service instead of serving the full prison term. Bulawayo Magistrate Ms. Nomagugu Maphosa suspended three months of the sentence, and the remaining nine months were suspended on the condition that the offender performs community service at Cowdray Park Primary School.The accused, Lizuba Nkosi Ngula, from Nkulumane suburb, was employed by Global Fund as an HIV testing counsellor and was attached to Mpilo Central Hospital.According to the prosecutor, Ms. Hazel Siphiwe Sithole, the thefts took place on multiple occasions in November 2024.In the first incident, on November 6, 2024, Ngula stole a Samsung Galaxy A05 phone from 36-year-old Lucy Machingauta, a patient at the hospital's Post Natal ward. Ms. Machingauta had been admitted around 10:00 AM, and Ngula took her phone without permission. The total value of the stolen phone was US$100, but it was later recovered after Machingauta reported the theft to the police, leading to Ngula's arrest.On the same day, Ngula stole a second phone - an Itel P36 - from another patient, Martha Luwe, also in the Post Natal ward. The court heard that Ngula took the phone without Luwe's consent, knowing that the phone belonged to her.In the third theft, which occurred on November 8, 2024, Ngula stole an O King phone from 19-year-old Shamiso Ndlovu, a patient in the same ward at Mpilo Hospital. Ndlovu, who resides at Ndlovu homestead in Lower Gweru, reported the theft, which led to the investigation and eventual conviction of Ngula.The court's decision to suspend part of the sentence, requiring Ngula to complete community service, reflects a focus on rehabilitation while still holding him accountable for his actions. Nigerian activist Verydarkman has come to DJ Cuppys defense, stating that shes under immense pressure to tie the knot. This follows DJ Cuppys recent social media post, where she expressed her desire for a spiritually grounded husband who seeks Gods direction. Verydarkman took to his Instagram page on Saturday to caution against criticizing DJ Cuppy for her unmarried status. Advertisement READ MORE: Ubi Franklin Accused Of Unpaid N10m Debt As Verydarkman Threatens To Expose His Personal Life He noted that her sisters relationship with Mr. Eazi likely intensifies the pressure. According to Verydarkman, DJ Cuppys family wealth complicates potential marriage proposals, as suitors may have ulterior motives. He highlighted the challenging dynamics she faces when considering marriage. Captioning the video, he wrote, You all have to stop trol!n DJ CUPPY, she is under a lot of pressure if you look deep. SEE BELOW: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCbxWl5MIDO/?igsh=MWo4ODg0cHc0Z2d1eA== Veteran Nollywood actor Tony Umez and his wife celebrated 25 years of a joyful and fulfilling marriage. Reflecting on their marital milestone, Tony shared a heartfelt post on his Instagram page on Saturday, expressing gratitude for a journey defined by love, patience, and perseverance. Advertisement The actor expressed appreciation for the blessings of marriage, particularly their four cherished children, and thanked God for sustaining their union. READ MORE: Nollywood Actress Tope Osoba Battles Breast Cancer, Requests Financial Support In his post, Tony wrote, Today is OUR DAY .Happy Wedding Anniversary to US. 25 YEARS isnt 25 months.Its been a journey of LOVE with PATIENCE and PERSEVERANCE as escorts. A journey that has produced 4 very lovely and adorable children Angel , Princess, Beautiful and Golden-Mitchelle UMEZ. 25 YEARS done and dusted . It can only be God. To Him, All the Glory . Looking forward to FOREVER, TOGETHER. With our team, very achievable.Thank you Jesus . SEE POST: A rendering of one of the two apartment buildings, totaling 73 units, under construction at Kings Highway and Ashton Avenue in the heart of Swedesboro, Gloucester County, N.J. This building will have 6,500 square feet of ground-floor retail space. Read more The biggest downtown redevelopment project in memory or perhaps its history is intended to breathe new life into the quaint heart of Swedesboro, Gloucester County. The $23 million Nyckel Apartments project will include two buildings with a total of 73 market-rate rental units, as well as 6,500 square feet of ground-floor retail space along Kings Highway, the boroughs main street. Advertisement The apartments will be one- and two-bedroom units, with monthly rents ranging from $2,000 to $3,000. The property will include 100 or more parking spaces. This was probably our last opportunity to have some control over what happens on a huge open space downtown, Mayor Thomas W. Fromm said. The complex will occupy about two acres, including the site of a plastic packaging business that sat vacant for more than a decade until being demolished to make way for the new construction. Our goal was to find the right developer to build apartments and retail so we can grow our existing businesses and attract new businesses, said the mayor, 69, who has been in office since 2003 and has pushed for downtown redevelopment since 2007. Andrew Crossed, the managing partner of Park Grove Realty, a development firm headquartered in Rochester, N.Y., said: We go to communities where were wanted, and Swedesboro has been a really big advocate of this project. So it made a lot of sense for us to be there. The prospect of more people and stores downtown is raising hopes among some Kings Highway businesses, while sparking concerns for others. The vitality of downtown is picking up, and everyones excited about the new buildings, said florist Amy Uricher, 55, the owner of Petals & Paints on Kings Highway. Having more people walking around would be a positive thing, said Karen Morrison, the proprietor of the Sweetsboro Pastry Shoppe, also on Kings Highway. But without resolving the off-street parking issue, [the project] is going to be a boondoggle, said Gerry Siglow, board president of the faith-based nonprofit that operates two downtown thrift shops called Kings Things. Lots of history but too few parking lots? In a nod to Swedesboros rich heritage, Park Grove named its downtown project to honor the Kalmar Nyckel. In the 1600s, the famous tall ship transported Swedes and Finns to the New Sweden Colony in what is now the Philadelphia region. The Scandinavians settled on the hunting and fishing grounds of the Lenape people and established what is now Swedesboro circa 1638. After the 498-acre borough was incorporated in 1902, it developed into a regional downtown, complete with the Shoemaker Opera House, which was renamed the Embassy Theater and showed movies until 1950. In recent years, Swedesboros downtown which contains a rich mix of commercial, residential, sacred, and institutional architecture has evolved into something of a dining destination. What the mayor described as a really cool mix of restaurants large and small have opened or expanded, including those offering Chinese, Indian, and Mexican cuisines. I dont want to be negative about parking, because I think [the development] is a positive thing, Morrison said. But if someone is driving by and wants to stop but they dont see anywhere to park, thats an issue. Said Uricher: I feel confident the parking situation will work itself out. The borough is working on more parking, and the [development] itself will have some parking for the public. Deep skepticism Nevertheless, many comments on local social media sites expressed doubt about Swedesboros ability to provide enough parking for the demand the development may generate in the town of about 2,800 people. During an interview, Siglow, whose two thrift shops have been Kings Highway mainstays for 40 years, said that without more parking, theres just not going to be a very viable retail community in downtown Swedesboro. Not only are there too few off-street parking lots, theres often too much traffic on Kings Highway for those in search of street parking to slow down and get a spot, he said. Look, were a nonprofit. But anything that impacts businesses downtown is important to me, said Siglow, estimating that at least 50 additional off-street parking spaces are needed. Crossed said the podium parking underneath the two apartment structures, as well as surface parking on the development site, would be sufficient to accommodate tenants, customers, and employees of the street-facing retail spaces, and the public. Fromm said the borough has purchased property along Second Street and will build two surface parking lots with a total of about 30 spaces. People generally can find a place to park downtown without going too far, he said. The Second Street lots are going to enhance that availability. Market forces at work Although smaller in population and farther from Philadelphia than inner ring suburbs on either side of the Delaware, Swedesboro like Swarthmore and Bristol Borough in Pennsylvania and Haddon Township in South Jersey is being recognized by developers as a potential market for multifamily housing. The nationwide shortage of new housing also plays a role. Were finding the younger demographic is renting longer and buying homes later, said Crossed, adding that young professionals as well as empty nesters are likely tenants. Until recently a lot of developers havent focused on smaller towns, said Collingswood Mayor Jim Maley, who serves as redevelopment counsel to Swedesboro. But over time, their prominence has grown a bit in terms of the value developers are seeing in them. Even the big retailers are doing smaller-scale developments in smaller, walkable places. On the rise? With new restaurants and well-attended community events, including a food truck festival and dancing in the park, the center of Swedesboro already is trending up, Morrison said. A building north of me was torn down, and they built condos there, she said, adding, were up and coming, but were still quaint and friendly. Walking along Kings Highway with a friend recently Lauren Petitti, 43, a caregiver and borough resident, said Swedesboro really does have a homey feeling. Its old, and thats the beauty of it, she said. Northeast Community Propel Academy opened in 2021 to alleviate overcrowding in neighboring schools. It's already full, like many schools in the Northeast. Read more While some city schools have hundreds of empty seats, a swath of schools in Northeast Philadelphia are so overcrowded that students there are learning in hallways and in repurposed closets. We cannot service our students, said Mickey Komins, principal of Anne Frank Elementary. He said the school currently educates 1,630 students with 150 staff but has a building capacity of 1,360. Im not going to sugarcoat it we cannot service our students. Advertisement The Philadelphia School District is in the midst of a facilities master planning process that will likely result in school closings, colocations, and new construction. Several principals sounded the alarm at a public meeting Monday designed to inform the eventual plan, which is not set to be finalized until December 2025 and will take years more to execute. READ MORE: Expect a preliminary list of Philly school closings next fall. But some of those buildings might get new life as community hubs. Bianca Gillis, the principal of Baldi Middle School, said her school has 1,548 students and 200 staff right now, already putting it more than 400 people over building capacity. Baldis four feeder schools Anne Frank, Fox Chase, Comly, and Loesche are on track to send 638 sixth graders next fall; it has room for only 525, even with its new trailers. We need some short-term solutions to our problems, said Gillis at the Monday listening session. Were getting students every single week. Were all packed to the gills. Gillis was one of the principals from Learning Network 10, a group of elementary and middle schools in the Northeast, who spoke out. Komins, the Anne Frank principal, said the schools were in crisis mode. Fueling the growth Immigration is fueling the population boom. Angelique Leizerowicz-Taylor, the principal of Fox Chase Elementary, said she enrolls students daily; last week, nine students registered all of whom were English-language learners. READ MORE: Philly is starting on a process that will likely lead to school closures, new buildings. Heres what you should know. At Anne Frank, 700 of the schools 1,635 students are English-language learners, and 200 more students are former ELL students who have successfully exited the program. We welcome them, we love them, we care for them, but we cant service them if we have to send them to another school, said Komins. Several Northeast schools are so far beyond capacity that they are capped and cannot accept new students who register. Anne Frank is closed to new kindergarten and second-grade students; they are sent to Fox Chase, 15 minutes away. Fox Chase, Leizerowicz-Taylor said, is close to capping kindergarten and third graders. In the meantime, students and staff must cope with a portion of the building that floods when it rains, has no bathrooms, and has classrooms so small they can barely fit the 33 students they often must hold. I have staff members in closets, Leizerowicz-Taylor said. We have found every space that we could possibly use to put people. Loesche Elementary is sized for 930 students; it educates 1,300. Principal Sherin Kurian has been forced to create several co-taught classrooms with two teachers and almost 50 students in a single room. We had to make it work with the growing number of students in every grade, Kurian said. With limited space, its not fair or equitable to the students and staff. Almost 70% of Loesche students are English-language learners who require support. No ELL teacher has a dedicated classroom; all are operating off carts, as are all but one of the schools specialist teachers. Small-group instruction often happens in hallways, and the school doesnt have a single room to add another class. Loesche assistant principal Marilynn Szarka urged district officials to think about the implications of having specialist teachers without classrooms, forced to take materials from class to class, even with talented, dedicated educators at the helm. Theres no art room, no room to spread out, said Szarka. Its limited by what can be hauled up the stairs and down. What kind of quality are they receiving to be able to have them have that love of science or art? At Crossan Elementary, which operates with 328 students in a small, 100-year-old building, we have class in the hallways, said principal Khadijah Bright. J. Hampton Moore Elementary has 1,200 students and is receiving students from five other Northeast schools. Principal Timothy Glynn said his teachers are also conducting classes in hallways, with room dividers separating hallways when possible. Its despicable, said Glynn. We do a great job, the best we can, but thats not the way these students should be serviced. Glynn said he was particularly concerned about the rising special education population, students whose needs are often complex. He said he had to open a small, closet-sized room to create an autistic support class of six to eight students; another autistic support class has up to 14 students, a very large size for such a class. We truly are over capacity, top to bottom, geographically, to the point where I dont know a solution other than building more schools, and I dont think ones enough, Glynn said of the Northeast population boom. The district opened Northeast Community Propel Academy in Mayfair in 2021 to alleviate overcrowding, and its already over capacity, Glynn said. Komins agreed: The only answer he sees is another building, or repurposing a building thats already in existence, like a Catholic school. Many families have fled to charter schools, and more could leave the district, he said. This is panic time, Komins said. This isnt, lets wait and see. Were not servicing our communities; were not serving the students who are moving into our areas. Were serving who we can, and then were shuffling the others around. All of its on the table Oz Hill, interim deputy superintendent for operations, ran the Monday session, which was held virtually. He thanked the principals for speaking up and urged them to keep doing so. This is a plan that is going to provide some recommendations, Hill said. Under the most ideal conditions, if we were given whatever the number is for the sake of discussion, lets say, $10 billion I still would not be able to respond quickly enough to resolve or relieve the pressures that youre feeling, that youre experiencing, that our students are experiencing. Hill offered no solutions but promised to elevate the Northeast schools concerns. He said that as a parent, he would find overcrowded conditions unacceptable. I would not want my daughters to be in these schools if they were school-aged children. Its not lost on me. Community members Horace and Gail Clouden, longtime activists based in West Philadelphia, offered one solution busing students from the Northeast to West Philadelphia and other areas of the city that have excess capacity. This is a great opportunity put [students] on the bus and have them come to schools that are half full, said Gail Clouden, whos known as Mama Gail. And the question would be, Why not? Why arent we thinking on those terms? Hill said no decisions have been made, but all of its on the table. A few stars of the show, and their human handlers, at the Kennel Club of Philadelphias annual National Dog Show on Saturday, which was held in Oaks, Montgomery County. Read more A veritable sea of flaxen-hued and meticulously coiffed fluff fringed the periphery of Show Ring 9 as canines, handlers, and owners awaited the start of the golden retriever breed competition Saturday morning at the Kennel Club of Philadelphias annual National Dog Show. With goldens among the most represented breeds in the show business, quite a few of them were dog show veterans, and their people were taking the competition seriously. Advertisement No! barked one handler firmly in about the same tone youd use for a puppy chewing up one of your best shoes when asked by a bystander if she could pet the dog. Katie Wickum, 26, a dog walker and groomer from Preston, Md., and her August, a good-size 7-month old, were a different story. Were still very new to this. Were nervous. Well, me, Wickum said, looking down at August, who was in full sploot repose, looking up with a gentle, golden grin. He goes with the flow. His favorite part is the hot dogs. And, truth be told, there were lots of treats, and pets, and even butt scratches from owners and admiring strangers alike at this much-loved annual gathering of so many good boys and girls. Held at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, this years competition was slated to draw more than 1,900 dogs on Saturday and Sunday and a record number of 205 breeds, according to event spokespeople. The pooches and their people came from 40 states, D.C., and five foreign countries. The champions in the seven group categories and the winner of the coveted Best in Show will be announced Thanksgiving Day, when the competition is shown on television. But many, many spectators come every year for the joy of being around so many different kinds of pups. Since it is the only benched dog competition in the nation, that means the dogs are in specific areas of the expo center floor when not competing. So the public can see them up close. And if you ask politely and not in the heat of competition the owners will often allow permission to pet their prize canines. Twin sisters Allison Leitch of Chattanooga and Jocelyn Leitch, of Atlanta, 48, decided to make a weekend of it at the dog show. Both sisters took selfies with Austin, a 130-pound bullmastiff from Nova Scotia who works as a law enforcement therapy dog, offering emotional support to witnesses while they give police statements and to officers after they have a rough tour of duty. He even has his own police badge, said owner Laurie Francis, 49, of Halifax. Austin definitely made the Leitch sisters day. Hes got that big head. Hes awesome! Allison said. Hes a sweetheart! said Jocelyn, who got a smooch from Austin just as she snapped the selfie. Two local bullmastiffs with the dog shows Therapy Dog Ambassador Team are also going to be filling high-profile and very fun roles soon. Wasabi, a 4-year-old female from Pottstown, and Rufus, a 6-year-old male from Malvern who competed Saturday, will both serve as honorary Butkus stand-ins at the first Rockyfest in Philadelphia. Being held from Dec. 3 through 8, it will be several days of celebratory events in honor of the forthcoming 50th anniversary of the release of the first Rocky movie. As all Rocky fans know, Butkus was Rocky Balboas beloved bullmastiff, his pet and running partner. Wasabis owner, Tamar Paltin, 36, an animal sciences professor, said this is right up her pups alley, including as a breed ambassador. Shes so excited. the owner said. She loves meeting people. She loves doing events and being out in public. I think its going to be really, really fun for her. Rufus owner, Michael Devine, 69, an investment consultant, said the first Rocky movie piqued his interest in the breed, and he has had several since. But Rufus, he said, is special. Hes like a magnet for people of all ages, including the smallest kids. Hes got the best personality, and he really likes other people. He likes other dogs, Devine said. I couldnt ask for any more from him. With so many dogs at the show, there were lots of tales of special canines too many to tell. Greta, a long-haired dachshund from Lancaster, helps her child-therapist owner in her work with youngsters. Manus, a wirehaired dachshund from Mechanicsburg, Pa., regularly visits a memory-care center and has a gift for calming even the most agitated residents and helping them remember their own dogs. Bear, a Newfoundland from Egg Harbor, N.J., was still a puppy last summer when he saved the life of a dog friend who had swam out too far. Daisy, a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog from New Oxford, Pa., lives on a farm and helps guard the other animals that live there from predators like coyotes and bears. Some of the doggo competitors just showed a special knack for spreading joy. Earlier in the week, Prince Louis, a fluffy white Samoyed from Clementon, and Kanji, a Cape Cod, Mass., Lancashire heeler, which is a new breed to the show, both won the competitions first smile-off. Dagda, a golden retriever from Wilmington, was not a competitor in this years show. Rather, Dagda and owner Bob Jarvis, 74, a retired IT manager, volunteer with PAWS for People, a therapy dog organization. Saturday, Dagda was one of the dogs providing comfort to whoever wanted, or needed, it in the shows Therapy Dog Ambassador area. But when it comes to providing solace as mans best friend, Dagda was already a champ. Jarvis said Dagda is a regular at a local suicide-prevention program, a senior housing program, and a local elementary school. Said the owner: Every kid in the school knows his name. The Hollywood Tavern. The 174-home neighborhood got its start when a builder from California, Gustav Weber, filed plans to build a small subdivision in 1928. The homes were built in pastel colors with flat roofs, similar to Spanish-style homes in the Los Angeles area. Streets were named Los Angeles, San Diego, Pasadena and San Gabriel. One of Weber's problems, however, was that the neighborhood landscaping and hardscaping features were not built to cope with the Northeastern winters. Plants native to Southern California and Moravian tile sidewalks were included in his plans. The plants died in the cold. The tile cracked and was replaced by concrete. Read more Start your day with the Philly news you need and the stories you want all in one easy-to-read newsletter Good morning, Philly. Advertisement Expect some clouds and a high near 61 this Sunday. Theres still a chance to catch a glimpse of the years last supermoon tonight. It will reach 96% fullness at moonrise. California may be far away on the West Coast, but there is a Hollywood in Montco. Explore the neighborhood with a glittering name and complicated past. And a West Philadelphia funeral home has been sued by a grieving family seeking answers and accountability regarding the burial of a deceased loved one that has raised many questions. Paola Perez (morningnewsletter@inquirer.com) If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here. You dont have to catch a flight or change time zones to see Hollywood. This charming place in Montgomery County is akin to a traditional urban neighborhood. Its dense, walkable, and offers ready access to transit. The community was designed in the 1920s to offer compact Southern California-style living on Phillys suburban frontier. Its little houses show off a lot of style, lining sunny avenues with names like Los Angeles, San Gabriel, and San Diego. No celebrities call this Hollywood home, but theres a local cast of characters with their own stories to tell. Hollywood traces its existence to a lovestruck builder named Gustav Weber, whose ill-starred California dream alone is loaded with romance, drama, bad luck, and unexpected redemption. Dive into Hollywoods history with Kevin Riordan. Darryl Bonners grieving family was shocked when told that an autopsy had been performed on his body at West Philadelphias Terry Funeral Home. No foul play was suspected in his death, and his family did not consent to an autopsy. After Bonners loved ones laid him to rest without viewing his body, they were hit with conflicting narratives: A funeral home employee told them Bonner had significant scars. And a medical examiner told them an autopsy never took place. While still processing their loss and trying to piece together exactly what happened to Bonner after his death, the family now questions whether it was Bonner who was lowered into the grave in the first place. Read on for the details of the case and what the funeral home is saying. What you should know today Pop quiz A customer was so unhappy with this sandwich chains idea of a cheesesteak, he filed a proposed class-action lawsuit against it. (Not all heroes wear capes.) A) Jersey Mikes B) Jimmy Johns C) Subway D) Quiznos Think you know? Check your answer. Unscramble the anagram This Phillies pitcher is on course to make his major league debut in 2025 Hint: PRAWN RETAINED Email us if you know the answer. Well select a reader at random to shout out here. Cheers to Bob Fles who correctly guessed Saturdays answer: Taney Street. Philadelphia lawmakers recently voted to rename the street, bringing to an end years of activism over the street named for a late Supreme Court justice responsible for upholding slavery and denying citizenship to Black people. See more photos from Main Street in Manayunk, now decked out in holiday decor. Todays track goes like this: Reach for the top / And the sun is gonna shine. Youre all caught up with the news. Take care now. The 174-home neighborhood got its start when builder Gustav Weber filed plans to build a small subdivision in 1928. The homes were built in pastel colors with flat roofs, similar to Spanish-style homes in the Los Angeles area. Read more There are no movie stars in Montgomery Countys very own Hollywood. But nearly a century ago, the Abington Township neighborhood did attract sightseers, drawn by the promise of the name as well as the vista of stylish new homes in pastel colors along avenues with sunny names like Los Angeles, San Gabriel, and San Diego. Advertisement And the story of a community that owes its existence to a love-struck builder named Gustav Weber and his ill-starred California dream has enough romance, drama, bad luck, and unexpected redemption for a film adaptation or streaming series. Theres a local cast of characters with stories to tell as well. All of us who live here have a deep passion for this neighborhood, said Michele Medori-Henrysen. An occupational therapist, she bought her home in 2013 and later helped organize outdoor movies on the block during the pandemic. I love telling people I live in Hollywood and then they say, Oh, you mean that neighborhood across Huntingdon Pike from where the Penn Fruit [supermarket] used to be? Sharon Davis, who has lived around the corner with her husband, Richard, for 40 years, said: We were living in Frankford and looking for an affordable house, and we bought this one for $60,000. They were asking $59,000, but we went over the asking price because we fell in love with the house. Little houses, lots of style Most of the 174 houses built were single-story, single-family detached dwellings of less than 1,000 square feet, with two or three bedrooms and a single bathroom. Sale prices originally started at around $3,000; houses in Hollywood now sell for about $300,000. They all look like Hollywood houses, said Peggy Devaney, who bought her house 37 years ago. But they built the houses with materials they would use in Hollywood, California. Like the palm trees reported to have been planted on the streets, the flat, tiled roofs and uninsulated walls were problematic in Southeastern Pennsylvania. As a result, Devaney and many other homeowners have made modifications, including pitched roofs, second stories, additional bathrooms, and siding. The original stucco of at least one Hollywood house has been swathed in formstone or another composite material that resembles stonework. The neighborhoods architectural style is often given as Spanish Revival or Mission Revival. However residents describe it, they love Hollywoods convenient location, sizable backyards, curvaceous streets, and neighborliness. Township Commissioner Drew Rothman, who represents a ward that includes Hollywood, said the neighborhood is the furthest thing from cookie-cutter and adds to the character of Abington. Hollywood looks and feels like a comfortable place to be, he said. The houses are similar, but still unique. Its cool. Everybody is very friendly, and I take care of them, said Leona Backukas, 83. She owns Hollywood House Dog Grooming one of the handful of businesses in the neighborhood. I dont charge for clipping their dogs nails, as long as they promise to make a donation to their church or synagogue or some other charity. Residents also said they treasure living in a place where people live in close proximity and generally get along. Its not uncommon for siblings, grown children, or cousins of owners to buy in Hollywood as well. The Bucks County Moravian-tile fireplace surrounds in many of the homes also are a selling point. And the Hollywood Tavern at the neighborhoods unofficial gateway on Huntingdon Pike has been a convenient local gathering place for decades. Ahead of its time? Dense, walkable, and offering ready access to transit, Hollywood is akin to a traditional urban neighborhood, and houses there continue to attract interest, said Aaron Gray Sr., a Realtor with Century 21 Advantage Gold in Elkins Park. These houses appeal to buyers looking for a certain style of home, he said. Theyre one floor, and less than 1,000 square feet, and the affordability also is a big thing. First-time buyers, seniors looking to downsize, and professionals or young families who want to live close to but not in Philadelphia are potential Hollywood residents as well. But there arent a lot of these houses available, said Gray. An analysis by Mike Carlin, vice president of operations at Tri-County Suburban REALTORS in Malvern, found 29 closings on Hollywood properties since Jan. 1, 2018. Prices ranged from $185,000 in 2018 to this years most recent at $427,000, with $300,000 and above predominating in the last two years. READ MORE: Hollywood (Pa.): Ready for its close-up? A visionary with bad timing Other than the Hollywood he began to build on a tract of Abington Township farmland in 1928, Gustav Weber seems to have left little behind. An account on the Library Company of Philadelphia website said Weber conceived of the development following a visit to the West Coast. Competing narratives about the origin story long ago emerged: Weber sought to build Hollywood because his reportedly much younger wife hailed from there and was homesick. Or he built it because he was from there, too. Or perhaps neither of them were from there, and he abandoned his Hollywood dream after his spouse ran away with his brother. Whatever: The stock market crash of 1929 likely was a major factor. Weber was quite a guy, developer Sidney Robin who finished Hollywood in the late 1940s said in a June 24, 1982, interview with The Inquirer. The original builder took off and left thousands of dollars in debts as well as half-finished homes, said Robin. Opinion / Columnist Tendai Ruben Mbofana is a social justice advocate and writer. Please feel free to WhatsApp or Call: +263715667700 | +263782283975, or email: mbofana.tendairuben73@gmail.com, or visit website: https://mbofanatendairuben.news.blog/ As world leaders make their way back to their respective countries after the COP29 Climate Change Summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, one can't help but ask: when will the United Nations (UN) hold a summit dedicated to the pressing issues of democracy, human rights, and the respect for the rule of law?While global summits such as the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the annual Climate Change Conferences (COP), the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Summits, and others address a wide range of critical issues, the question remains as to why the state of democracy and human rights is not accorded similar urgency on the global stage.The UN, in its 78 years of existence, has organized countless high-level summits focusing on vital matters like the environment, global health, and sustainable development.These summits are undeniably crucial, but the question arises as to why democracy and human rights, issues that affect the daily lives of billions of people, are often relegated to the margins.Every day, countless individuals across the globe face authoritarian repression, violence, and the erosion of their basic rights, with little to no recourse or accountability.The absence of a focused, UN-sponsored summit on democracy and human rights leaves a void, as people living under regimes that systematically undermine freedoms are left without a prominent platform on the world stage.This article delves into why democracy and human rights should command the same attention, the history of the UN's engagement with these issues, and what a potential UN summit on democracy and human rights could look like.The International Landscape of Human Rights and DemocracyAround the world, democracy and human rights are under siege.From authoritarian leaders who cling to power through manipulation, violence, and corruption, to governments that stifle political opposition and dissent, there is no shortage of examples where basic freedoms are denied.Consider Zimbabwe, where the opposition faces violent repression, voices of dissent are silenced, and elections are rigged with impunity.To directly receive articles from Tendai Ruben Mbofana, please join his WhatsApp Channel on: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaqprWCIyPtRnKpkHe08Citizens are left without the most basic rights to participate in governance, and the economy is ravaged by corruption and mismanagement.But Zimbabwe is not an isolated case.In many countries, the right to vote, to express opinions freely, and to participate in public life is systematically undermined.In fact, the widespread decline of democratic institutions is a growing global concern.While many governments outwardly claim to uphold democracy, their actions betray these ideals as they clamp down on civil liberties, judicial independence, and freedom of the press.Where are the global leaders when these violations occur?Why is it that the international community frequently convenes to discuss issues like climate change, global health, and trade, but rarely comes together to discuss the erosion of democratic norms or the violation of human rights?In 1945, when the UN was founded, the focus was primarily on preventing future wars and ensuring peace.However, over time, the organization expanded its mandate to include issues like development, climate change, and health.Yet, despite the growing urgency of the challenges facing democracy and human rights, no dedicated summit exists to address these concerns head-on.The UN and Its Role in Promoting Democracy and Human RightsThe creation of the United Nations was a milestone in the development of international law and human rights.Founded on the principle of "We the Peoples," the UN Charter emphasized the importance of democratic values and the protection of human rights, even though it did not explicitly mention the word "democracy."At the time, many member states were not practicing democracy, and the idea of promoting democracy worldwide was not universally accepted.However, the opening words of the Charter-"We the Peoples"-imply a fundamental respect for the will of the people, which lies at the core of democratic governance.The UN does not promote a specific model of government, but it has consistently supported democratic governance as a set of universal values and principles that should be adhered to by states in order to ensure the protection of human rights, equality, and sustainable development.Democracy creates an environment where individuals are free to express themselves, choose their leaders through fair elections, and hold those leaders accountable.The UN's commitment to these values is best encapsulated in its Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which upholds the rights to freedom of expression, assembly, and association.Moreover, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by UN member states in 2015, explicitly recognizes that "democracy, good governance and the rule of law, as well as an enabling environment at the national and international levels, are essential for sustainable development."This commitment reinforces the idea that democratic governance is not a luxury but a necessity for ensuring the prosperity, security, and well-being of citizens in every country.The UN's work in advancing democracy and human rights is evident in its various agencies and initiatives, such as the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the Human Rights Council (HRC), which strive to monitor and report on human rights abuses, hold violators accountable, and support democratic reforms in member states.However, despite these efforts, there is no single event or summit where global leaders come together to discuss the state of democracy and human rights in a concerted manner.The Case for a UN Summit on Democracy and Human RightsOne of the primary reasons a UN Summit on Democracy and Human Rights is necessary is the global decline in democratic standards.In recent years, numerous countries have experienced democratic backsliding, where long-standing democracies have seen their institutions weaken, political freedoms erode, and autocratic tendencies increase.According to the Freedom House report, "Freedom in the World 2023," political rights and civil liberties worldwide have been in decline for over a decade.The rise of populism and authoritarianism has undermined progress toward more inclusive and participatory governance.A UN Summit on Democracy and Human Rights could provide a platform for world leaders to confront these challenges head-on.It would bring together representatives from both democratic and authoritarian regimes, offering an opportunity for a frank discussion about the state of democracy globally, the role of international institutions in supporting democratic values, and the urgent need for reforms in countries where human rights abuses and authoritarianism are rampant.In addition to providing a forum for dialogue, such a summit could establish concrete actions and accountability mechanisms to ensure that governments uphold their international human rights obligations.It could address issues such as the independence of the judiciary, freedom of expression, media pluralism, and the need for genuine, transparent elections.Moreover, the summit could place pressure on countries that systematically violate human rights, urging them to take meaningful steps toward reform or face international isolation and sanctions.Another compelling reason for such a summit is to provide support for human rights defenders, journalists, and activists who are often the first to challenge oppressive regimes.Many of these individuals face persecution, imprisonment, and even death for their efforts to expose human rights violations or demand democratic reforms.A summit could shine a global spotlight on these individuals and provide them with the international support and recognition they desperately need.The Role of Civil Society and Global ActivismWhile a UN Summit on Democracy and Human Rights would be a crucial step, it cannot stand alone.Civil society, human rights organizations, and grassroots movements play an essential role in holding governments accountable and pushing for reforms.For a summit to have a real impact, it must be accompanied by a strong international network of civil society organizations that can advocate for the implementation of the commitments made at the summit and ensure that leaders follow through on their promises.Activists and human rights defenders are often the most effective voices for change, as they are the ones who understand the challenges on the ground.They are the ones risking their lives to expose government abuses and demand accountability.A UN Summit on Democracy and Human Rights would provide them with a valuable opportunity to speak directly to global leaders and ensure that their voices are heard in the highest corridors of power.Moreover, such a summit could encourage greater collaboration between governments, civil society, and international organizations, creating a more unified approach to defending democracy and protecting human rights.This collaboration is essential, as no single entity-whether a government, an NGO, or the UN-can tackle these issues alone.Only through collective action can the international community hope to address the growing threats to democracy and human rights worldwide.Conclusion: A Call for ActionThe UN has long been at the forefront of global efforts to address issues ranging from poverty and disease to climate change and conflict.Yet, despite the importance of democracy and human rights, these issues remain largely sidelined in the grand summits and discussions that shape global policy.The time has come for the UN to convene a summit focused solely on democracy and human rights, where world leaders can come together to discuss the state of democracy globally, make concrete commitments to protect human rights, and hold each other accountable for their actions.A UN Summit on Democracy and Human Rights would not only provide a forum for dialogue and cooperation but also send a powerful message that the international community stands united in defending the fundamental rights of all people.It would be a chance for global leaders to reaffirm their commitment to democratic values and take collective action to ensure that human rights are respected, protected, and promoted for generations to come.The question remains: when will the UN hold a summit on democracy and human rights?The answer lies in the collective will of world leaders to prioritize these values and work together to create a world where freedom, justice, and equality are not just ideals, but realities for all. Brightest in the business Client feedback is the measure of a brokers performance and justifies why Insurance Business Australias Top Insurance Brokers are the industrys standout operators leading the charge. In its second annual search for the best insurance brokers who act in their clients interests, IB conducted a rigorous marketing and survey process. The IB team asked thousands of readers nationwide to nominate their brokers and rate them on six criteria, including personalised service and understanding of coverage needs. The most voted-for brokers that received an average score of eight or higher out of 10 were named Top Insurance Brokers, recognised for their exceptional client service. IBs survey data shows that clients value knowledgeable brokers who are quick to respond, proactive and genuinely interested in their wellbeing. Industry experts: best insurance brokers go the extra mile to build trust Top-performing brokers forge trusting relationships that make clients feel valued, heard and understood. Brokers that still enjoy face-to-face interactions with clients are rarer than ever, and they stand out at interviews, says Madeleine Martin, Fuse Recruitments national manager, insurance and wealth management. Top-performing brokers are willing to go the extra mile and spend time with their customers to truly understand their businesses and the risks they face as a trusted business advisor. Stuart Freeman, director of growth at recruitment firm Kennedy, also mentions that apart from industry qualifications, the best broker candidates have a track record of getting to know their clients well. I look for people that are really good listeners, and I think its got to be someone passionate about going out and spending time with their clients, he says . They get to know their clients business on an intimate level. Its about putting yourself in the clients shoes. As the broker, its about putting the client first. Vero Insurances head of distribution, Anthony Pagano, emphasises that top brokers offer customers a personal, transparent experience by acting in good faith and balancing risk advice with their best interests. Going above and beyond and demonstrating knowledge in specific industry segments sets brokers apart, he says. They also need to maintain a full-service relationship with their clients, from placement to policy maintenance and claims management. Cynthia Yap, managing director at Dynamic Insurance Services, highlights that the best insurance brokers possess strong technical expertise, a client-centric focus, ethical conduct and the following: deep understanding of the insurance products they offer proactive communication with clients, anticipating changes in risk and adjusting coverages as needed integrity and transparency, ensuring clients understand the policies they are purchasing and feel confident in their brokers recommendations a commitment to continuous learning as the industry constantly evolves with regulatory changes, emerging risks and technological advancements strong negotiation skills to secure the best deals and terms for clients while maintaining profitable relationships with insurers Kellie DArcy, director at Australian Elite Insurance Solutions, points out that fast turnaround time on claims, clear communication, excellent product knowledge and strong insurer/broker relationships are essential for standing out. IB proudly highlights 24 accomplished insurance brokers for their passion, dedication and commitment. Two of the best share insights into their service philosophy and success. Personal touch sets best insurance brokers apart Wilson founded the Horsham, Wimmera brokerage in 2013 to meet local demand among small and medium-sized businesses for enhanced insurance options. Offering unparalleled client service was of utmost importance, particularly for farmers, about whom she has a soft spot and admiration for the work they do to sustain communities. Today, Wilson serves clients nationwide, tailoring insurance solutions to their unique business, home and family needs. She regards this as a way of giving back. As brokers, we do a lot of what we call pro bono work, she says. All our advice and quotations are free of charge with no obligation whatsoever. Even advising others is comforting, knowing that weve educated them, opened their eyes to what can happen or helped them protect themselves better. Getting positive stories out there is something Im passionate about. We often forget the impact we have, not just financially but mentally and emotionally, on our clients. Lets celebrate what we do Abbie Wilson National Insurance Brokers Wilsons commitment to her clients has led to a record-breaking year in 2024, despite recent industry challenges. She was honoured as one of IBs Top Insurance Brokers and earned a finalist spot for NIBAs Broker of the Year award for Victoria and Tasmania. Additionally, she was recognised as IBs Elite Broker and Elite Woman for two consecutive years. Wilson attributes her success to her clients trust in her qualified advice. An example of her proactive approach came earlier this year when a claim was fully declined. Through persistence, investigation and tough conversations with all parties, we got it overturned, and the client was paid, she says. It took four months of daily effort and was mentally exhausting. The client admitted they never understood the true value of a broker until that moment, which changed their view of brokers and insurance. As a brokerage owner, Meyer takes on multiple roles, including broker, claims manager and advice provider. She hired a full-time assistant in 2022 to handle back-end processing and administrative tasks, allowing her to focus more on building client relationships. I enjoy doing what I do because I get to help people, and insurance is one of those things thats super complicated, even for brokers to understand sometimes, she says. I love talking to clients who have put insurance last on their list because theyve been dreading the conversation, and, in the end, they thank me and say Ive made it easy. Meyers work is driven by a personal family connection to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), which fuels her passion for the allied health space. I listen actively and ask lots of questions, which is crucial for understanding the clients business and finding the right solutions Laura Meyer MeyerInsure In addition, she specialises in professional indemnity, management liability, cyber insurance and consultancy coverage, areas where she feels a sense of accomplishment by ensuring the most vulnerable are protected and businesses are set up for success. Client service and satisfaction remain central to Meyers approach, as she continuously improves her knowledge and skills to ensure clients are informed and empowered to make the correct coverage decisions. Its important to me to help educate my clients because getting insurance right is crucial, she says. The fact we can be the translator is important, too, and we must be able to communicate well with our clients. Meyers tenacity and problem-solving skills have significantly impacted her clients. Recently, I had a large hail claim where underinsurance was an issue, she says. I worked closely with the assessor and the claims handler to find ways to lessen the blow. It took a lot of communication, advocacy and explanation, but we achieved a good outcome. Best insurance brokers excel at communication and responsiveness IBs survey respondents rated fast and easy communication as a top priority in what they appreciate most in brokers. Clients shared feedback on what makes a difference, including: Always responds to emails and phone calls in a timely manner Are contactable at all times They must be able to translate information in a way we can easily understand what is needed, why, and willingness to help minimise filling out documents For Wilson, keeping communication lines open builds trust and ensures clients feel comfortable sharing all the details needed to help them effectively. My clients can always reach me; Im active on social media, and they all have my direct number, knowing that they can contact me 24/7, which is something I stress from the first interaction, she says. A broker should be there for you, especially when things go wrong. As the face of her business, Meyer leverages various technological tools to make it as easy as possible for clients to reach her, including: an auto-reply on emails confirming receipt and informing the sender their message is being triaged promptly an appointment calendar on the website At first, I was a bit concerned that this might make me appear less accessible, but Ive received good feedback from people, and they can still call me if they need to, she says. Clients highly value personalised service Respondents prioritise personalised service, comprehensive coverage and peace of mind over cost, underscoring brokers interaction and guidance in helping clients make insurance choices. Survey respondents stated: I want my business broker to treat me like a human being, not a number Taking the time to learn and understand my needs and then provide a tailored solution In October 2024, Wilson noticed a shift in clients using brokers instead of direct or online insurers. She believes they recognise the value of qualified advice. Her TikTok launch enables her to chat casually with people about life and insurance, which often turn into serious conversations and meetings. I dont criticise online markets, but I do highlight what they cant offer, and thats qualified advice, she says. I ask people to consider a question: What if something happened yesterday? Would your policy respond? What are your expectations? Thats powerful because it makes them think about real scenarios and seek proper advice. Meyer prioritises face-to-face conversations whenever possible, but with clients across Australia, video meetings are the next best thing to put that all-important face to a name. She says, It helps to make it personable and to establish a rapport and be friendly with someone. Its about talking about their business and what and how theyre doing it. This helps me understand their business and approach to risk and risk tolerance. Meyer emphasises that listening is just as essential, along with asking good questions and signing up for clients newsletters to stay across areas important to them to identify potential gaps or coverage issues. Ensuring clients receive proper coverage hinges on expertise IBs data shows that a majority of respondents place significant trust in their brokers expertise, indicating clients reliance on them in choosing the appropriate insurer for their needs. Survey respondents highlighted: Helps me find covers for my business ventures and explains the covers required and optional covers that others in my industry also take out; provides me with reports and risk mitigation suggestions to reduce my overall exposure Knowing my industry and how else I can protect all my assets without asking Helping me save on premiums when times are hard and increasing the scope of cover when times are good The best insurance brokers are typically insurance nerds, asserts Wilson. She notes she constantly stays abreast of changes, trends and news risks, such as lithium battery issues on electric vehicles. If we cant prevent a risk entirely, we need to adapt our policies and services to handle it, she says. We have to embrace change and prepare for the unknown. Theres always something new around the corner, and we must be ready for it. Staying informed is par for the course for Meyer, who adds that maintaining compliance with requirements is an ongoing effort. She attends industry webinars, reads industry-specific newsletters and keeps in touch with insurers and other professionals on social media. If something comes across my desk that triggers something about a particular client, Ill get in touch with them straight away, she says. I always have my insurance brain on. Honesty and integrity central to client interactions Clients trust what they deem to be honest brokers, according to comments made by respondents: He completed the review of the policies and advised me to stay with the current insurer and broker as they were in the right home. He gave an honest opinion and didnt try to win the business for the sake of himself Wilson insists theres no room for sugarcoating in the industry. I always put myself in the clients shoes and think about what I would expect, she says. It keeps me grounded, honest and transparent, resulting in strong integrity. Integrity is a core value that Meyer holds dear. She says, If I say Ill do something, I do it. I tend to attract clients who align with my values because they know Im focused on doing the right thing, even if it means putting in work hours without compensation. What does the future look like for the best insurance brokers? According to leading industry experts, human connection and personalised service in the insurance broking industry will endure even amidst technological advancements. Pagano: Brokers are more important than ever, especially regarding advice, because clients do not know what they do not know. They will continue to play an integral role in the support and success of a clients business to ensure that business assets, people, and livelihoods are protected. Yap: Their ability to combine technology, specialisation and human connection will shape the future of leading brokers. My leadership experience emphasises that brokers who balance innovation, industry expertise and client empathy will remain indispensable in the evolving insurance landscape. Martin: With emerging technologies playing a part in how broking will operate, we still firmly believe that insurance brokers are as valuable as ever. The need for a broker to understand a clients needs and provide a best-in-market solution hasnt been replaced by technology. The claims process is also incredibly important to the overall customer experience. While technology can enhance the customer experience, it cannot provide the reassurance of a proactive and empathetic broker during a customers time of need. Freeman: I think broking will always have a human element. So, how might that change going forward? I believe accessing information for brokers and consumers now is easier with AI and comparative websites. I think the brokers I see continue to do well year after year; its really about the level of intimacy they have with their clients. They dont take their clients for granted and continue spending a lot of time with them. To earn a spot on the 2024 list, brokers needed to achieve an average rating of 8 or higher. This years honourees were selected solely based on client service metrics, with no consideration given to business volume. China has been the largest exporter of goods in the world since 2009. Data from the World Bank indicates that the countrys total exports amounted to $3.51 trillion in 2023, with projections for greater growth in 2024. In 2013, China became the largest trading nation in the world based on the value of its imports and exports. The United States previously held that position. The country with the title of largest exporter of goods in the world has changed numerous times in the past, and it will probably continue to do so. In the 19th century, Britain was known as the "workshop of the world" and ruled a global empire based on trade. By the 21st century, China had become "the world's factory." However, the Silk Route and the size of China's economy suggest that it was often the largest exporter of goods in previous centuries as well. Key Takeaways China has been the largest exporter of goods in the world since 2009, and total Chinese exports amounted to $3.51 trillion in 2023. China's exports and economy grew dramatically following the opening of the country to trade under Deng Xiaoping. The top goods by value exported from China in 2023 were phones (including smartphones). The EU, the U.S., Japan, and South Korea have been among China's largest trading partners. The Growth of China's Exports Chinas growth into a global trading giant was exceptionally rapid. For several centuries, the Chinese government pursued isolationist policies. This isolation continued under Chair Mao Zedong. After his death in 1976, the country developed a new focus on trade and foreign investment. China's economic growth generally has been substantial since that time. Deng Xiaoping launched China's economic opening in the late 1970s. The role of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) declined as China pursued economic growth in tune with capitalism. Between 1983 and 2013, China averaged annual economic growth of about 10% per year. During this period, the country followed an export-led growth strategy. Special economic zones (SEZs) in China played a major role in the country's economic boom and the growth of exports. Within SEZs such as Shenzhen, China offered tax incentives to foreign investors. These incentives included the ability to import equipment and technology tax-free. President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping attempted to keep China's annual growth high by increasing debt, but he encountered several challenges. Primarily, the rise of protectionism in the U.S. and China's persistently high trade surplus with the U.S. brought about a trade war. Furthermore, China suffered a severe economic downturn during early 2020. If the countries of the European Union are taken as a whole, the EU region would be the largest exporter in the world, with $9.7 trillion in exports in 2023. China's Top Exports China has a large number of dominant industries that create products and materials for export. In 2023, the top six product groups with the highest value of exports were: A clear opportunity to establish nineteen Bio-CNG stations in the southeast region has emerged following the findings of a report that biomethane could solve 47% of the regions energy needs and create 240 jobs. The South East Energy Agency (SEEA), a not-for-profit organisation that covers Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford and Waterford, recently unveiled the report part-funded by Gas Networks Ireland entitled The Potential of Renewable Gas and the Development of Bio-CNG in Irelands South East'. The SEEA, which works in partnership to deliver energy-saving projects for the local authorities, communities and businesses concerned, envisages that the region could become a leader in sustainable efficient use of locally produced clean energy delivering low carbon homes, jobs and enterprise. The report positions biomethane as a critical solution for decarbonising transport and achieving our net-zero goals. CEO of South East Energy Agency, Paddy Phelan, who is an engineer, welcomed the report saying it highlights an incredible opportunity to create a self-sufficient energy landscape in Ireland. It underscores the importance of embracing biomethane In parallel to supporting the national renewable electricity acceleration programme in parallel to drive Irelands sustainable energy ambitions. Paddy Phelan, CEO, South East Energy Agency. Phelan says there are two pathways for the south east. While Bio-CNG refuelling stations would support heavy goods vehicles in the shift to low-carbon transport, this locally produced green gas solution also provides a direct and affordable way for SMEs and public sector entities to decarbonise their heating systems. He adds that there is a straightforward solution. By replacing old oil or gas boilers with a new gas boiler commissioned to burn green biomethane, businesses and public sector facilities can immediately cut their carbon emissions as weve seen at Wexford Fire Station and Kilkenny Machinery Yard Depot. Ireland is currently ranked last on the EU leader board in terms of its overall share of renewable energy usage, at 13.4%. (All energy across heat, transport and electricity) Phelan says that we often hear positive stories about wind and clean energy in this country. We are middle to high on the table when it comes to the percentage of renewable electricity. But electricity makes up about 30% of our total energy basket. With about half of that renewable, thats where our 13%-14% of renewable energy is coming from. The EU average is 23.9%. Its important to understand that across Europe, bio-energy is responsible for 40%-50% of the total energy basket, says Phelan. We have not had any meaningful policies that could have been taken up to help with renewable energy, he points out. Our 2020 renewable energy target was 16% delivering 12.3% of all our energy from total renewables and we remain behind our 2020 targets. We are now almost a full thirty percentage points behind the 2030 target. By 2030, Phelan would like to see the south east have 50%-60% of its energy provided by electricity with almost 100% of it renewable. From a rural employment perspective and we dont want to see any further rural depopulation thats a big drive for the EU as well. It wants sustainable energy communities. Bio-energy provides jobs in the long term. Whether its from solid liquids or gases, it requires people to operate and maintain it. To produce renewable energy, there are jobs with all renewable at the development, construction and commissioning phases. The number of jobs associated with wind and solar renewable energy are lighter whereas with bio-energy, you need to fully supply chain delivery every day from locally sourced biomass residue and then producing a gas bio-liquid which is storable and transportable. Three critical actions for future of biomethane To fully realise the potential of biomethane, the SEEA has outlined three critical actions the Government must take. 1. The critical first step is to provide financial-viability operational support for biomethane production rather than meagre 20% capital grant schemes. 2. A clear actionable Renewable Heat Obligation Scheme to incentivise the switch to biomethane for heating systems in SMEs and public sector buildings. 3. The Government must address regulatory obstacles and planning challenges, while also focusing on public perception by highlighting the natural circular economy benefits of biomethane. Gross EU consumption of renewable energy per type, figures supplied by the South East Energy Agency. Source: European Commission While the figure of 240 jobs being created in the south east from the direct production of biomethane is attractive, Phelan points out that there would be significant additional jobs arising locally in the wider supply chain around plant, equipment and services for those core jobs in BioEnergy. Additionally, the monies retained in the Southeast region currently exported to Middle East, Balkins, South America for our imported energy would reside locally in rural regions and make their way into the communities, such as in pubs, hotels and shops. The central economic consideration here is that from every litre of oil we buy, about 40%-50% of that value leaves the country because we dont make oil in Ireland. We import it. The value of it goes abroad. Of our natural gas, which we refer to as fossil gas for clarity, because its not renewable, 80% of it is imported from abroad. We understand the impact of that with the Ukraine war. Share of energy from renewable sources, by country. Bio-energy, be it liquid, solid or gas, that is collected from within the southeast region would stay within it. That allows for more disposable income in peoples pockets. Theres an extra 40 cent to whatever Euro we spend on energy, retaining it rather than exporting it. A bit of a revolution, is something that weve seen with the adoption of rooftop solar panels, says Phelan. It was made possible for everyone in their homes to put some solar panels on the roof and get a small dividend in return. For years, if you put solar on your roof, you couldnt get any value for your excess energy, i.e. money. You exported it or put it into the network. So I think it needs to be made easier for all levels of renewable energy when you can get access to the grid. Why is it so expensive to produce renewable gas or renewable electricity in Ireland? Its because the cost of the grid connection to all forms of energy is excessive in comparison to our European partners, both electricity and gas grid connections. We see commitment today from EU Commision to provide EU State Aid Exemption to the Swedish BioMethane and Sweden leads the way on renewables as a % of total energy supply Irish land is valuable. The reasons why are multitudinous, but include the compact size of this peaceful, blessed island, the warmth of her people and the exorbitant property prices she commands. Because whats valuable is covetable, all Irish land is covetable. But some land is more covetable than others. This is apparent now in ways that were not before. Towns and villages some in the remotest parts of the country are being visited by solar company representatives. For the most part, theyre scouting, then approaching farmers and other landowners to see if they can make a deal whereby their land can be used for the production of solar energy production. Because land matters so much, and deals once done can be lasting, its vital for farmers and other landowners to get expert legal advice when contemplating dealing with developers, who will after all, have teams of lawyers guiding and overseeing their every move. Ray Fitzpatrick, partner at Augustus Cullen Law solicitors. Having copious experience in this area, Ray Fitzpatrick, a partner at Augustus Cullen Law solicitors, is well versed on the legalities of renewable energy land deals. We act for a number of developers, and separately, we also act for landowners in renewable matters, he says. When acting for developers, we are involved primarily in putting in place, on their behalf, their legal agreements with individual landowners. This is done via the landowners solicitors. These involve option agreements for lease and leases, option agreements for the purchase of lands (for the construction of substations) and the putting in place of easements with landowners, for access, and for the cables required for development projects. These cover wind turbine developments, battery storage and solar farms. On the landowner side, Fitzpatrick and his team act for landowners where they have been approached by the developer. These are obviously in projects where we are not acting for the developer, otherwise a conflict would arise, he says. We review the agreements, which are those agreements referred to above, and we seek to negotiate anything that we feel needs to be amended or is overly onerous. Elucidating on the nature of the sort of Option Agreement that might arise in this type of work, he says: This provides the developer with an option to take a lease at agreed terms for a particular period normally for five or seven years, with a right to extend. In exchange for this, the landowner is paid an option fee. Clarifying that the lease period can be higher than this, Fitzpatrick says he has seen some agreements that are for a 10-year period, then continues: The option will set out and define the lands that the developer feels have potential for renewable development. This will be defined and outlined in reference to a map/title. The option gives the right to exercise the lease-which is typically a 30-year lease often with a right to extend for the developer, in exchange for a rent and subject to various terms and conditions. Included in these are the right for the developer to lease the necessary lands, access those lands, install roads, lay cables, and call for the right for the system operator to be granted access and given cable easements. Also included are obligations to reinstate the lands, typically to a depth of 1 metre. While the option gives the right to call for the lease to apply to all lands set out and defined, the developer is entitled to carve out of the optioned lands, the portion that they require. As planning permission must also be considered, Fitzpatrick explains that because the developer must arrange for this, it may become apparent that planning will not be forthcoming over the entire area, or that it may be refused. Therefore, he says, the flexibility is there to take less land. Asked about the advantages for farmers and other landowners of making deals with renewable energy developers, he replies: The sums involved for rentals, purchase prices and once off payments are in my view, very favourable. However, the landowner should consider the future intentions of the property. It is extremely important to have a proper understanding of the Option Agreement because of the implications of tying up the lands and restricting rights/activities. Some Option Agreements that I have seen prevent the transfer of lands without consent, and place restrictive covenants on activity on the landowners other lands. It is vital that they take advice. If they have children that will need sites in the future to build homes, it is essential that those sites with development potential in that regard are carved out prior to the Option Agreement. There is also the advantage that sheep can continue to graze the lands around the solar panels. Fitzpatrick cautions that from a developers perspective, it is essential that comprehensive agreements are put in place to cover all necessary development/lands, and that they are not left in a scenario where they are trying to develop or fund a project, only to realise that their agreements are flawed. Microplastics are everywhere. These small plastic particles often smaller than the width of a human hair have been found in the food we eat, the liquids we drink and throughout the human body, including in lungs, brains, blood and breast milk. While researchers are still determining the exact impacts on human health, microplastics (and their tinier variant, nanoplastics) pose a dual threat. The particles themselves can cause harm, as can the chemicals they contain. One recent study linked plastics in blood-vessel plaque to the risk of heart attack, stroke or death from any cause. Other research has found plastic exposure may increase the risk of cancer, Parkinsons disease and male infertility. Plastics ubiquity means that avoiding it entirely is impossible. However, there are steps you can take to minimise its presence. I certainly understand, and everyone understands, that plastic is a really important part of our society. But there are some direct exposures that we can reduce, says Sheela Sathyanarayana, a professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington who studies chemicals in plastics that affect the endocrine system. Plastic debris: a recent study has linked plastic exposure to increased cancer risk, Parkinson's disease, and male infertility. Picture: Marcelo Perez del Carpio/Bloomberg Use less plastic, full stop Some microplastic exposure comes from the environment: Airborne particles enter the body when we breathe, for example, while plastics in bodies of water build up in seafood. But other sources are closer to home. Sathyanarayana says the easiest low-hanging fruit for limiting exposure is to cut down on how much plastic you use. Simple steps, such as switching from bottled to tap water, make a difference. A one-litre bottle of water contains an average of 240,000 plastic fragments, according to a study. Earlier US research estimated that an average American drinking tap water instead of bottled water would consume dramatically fewer plastic particles. Keep plastics out of the kitchen The United Nations Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution is working on what could become a legally binding treaty on plastics, but countries remain divided on its scope particularly any provision that would call for less plastic production. It isnt just bottled water. Food storage containers, cutting boards and many other kitchen goods are often made of or include plastic. Even tea bags can be made of materials that contain plastic, says Mark Wiesner, a professor of civil and environmental engineering at Duke University who studies how plastics break down. Fortunately, many of those same kitchen items also come in glass or stainless steel, while wood cutting boards can take the place of plastic ones. Making the switch is especially important for heat exposure, which can cause plastics to break down more quickly. Absolutely, absolutely dont microwave food in plastic, says Gillian Goddard, an endocrinologist in New York who writes for Parentdata, which provides information about pregnancy, parenthood and perimenopause. Tempered glass such as Pyrex is a good alternative for warming food. When you do use plastic items, Goddard recommends washing them by hand heat and abrasion from a dishwasher can spread particles to other dishes and tossing or repurposing them once they become scratched. She also advises never reusing single-use plastics, such as bags and takeout containers, for food storage. Choose clothes made of natural fibres Textiles made of synthetic fibres are a frequent and often-forgotten source of microplastic exposure, particularly when theyre washed or dried. Plastic-free alternatives include natural fibres such as wool, cotton and linen. When washing synthetic fabrics is unavoidable, there are some ways to minimise harm to the environment, including washing full loads, using cold water and air-drying as much as possible. Keep your air clean Simple steps, such as switching from bottled to tap water, make a difference. A one-litre bottle of water contains an average of 240,000 plastic fragments, according to a study. Plastic particles often end up in the air when theyre thrown off by tyres, for example. At home, though, you can install a HEPA air filter to keep your air clean. The filters catch many particles, though the smallest may slip through. Sathyanarayana also recommends that people take their shoes off in their homes to limit dust recirculating. Imperfect solutions Because plastic is everywhere, no individual steps will get it out of your life entirely. Goddard says its hard to even know how much the existing guidance tempers harm: Plastic exposure is so ubiquitous that its difficult to find control groups for experiments. But small steps cant hurt, and reducing reliance on plastic has a positive impact on the environment overall. If you can do those simple things without a massive disruption to your life, youre probably doing something beneficial, Goddard says. Mitigating exposure to plastic is particularly important for people who are already more vulnerable to health impacts, Sathyanarayana says, including children and pregnant women. But making real headway against the worlds plastic problem will ultimately require systemic solutions, and both Goddard and Sathyanarayana are eager to see governments step up. The United Nations Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution is working on what could become a legally binding treaty on plastics, but countries remain divided on its scope particularly any provision that would call for less plastic production. Bloomberg Future climate policies are likely to feature as a challenge for the next government. Irish Examiner took to the streets to get the public's views ahead of General Election 2024. A married couple were arrested over an international money laundering operation with 21m allegedly transferred through online banks and cryptocurrency accounts, a court has heard. Jixu Wang (35) and Ye Wang (34), who are from China, were charged with possessing crime proceeds in a digital bank account between September 2023 and February this year. They were denied bail. Dublin District Court heard that following a "complex" investigation by the Dublin East Garda economic crime unit, with cooperation from Europol, and police in Germany, Spain, Switzerland, and the UK, officers arrested the unemployed couple on Tuesday. They searched their apartment on Avoca Road, Blackrock. The pair previously ran a cryptocurrency trading business and moved from the Philippines to Ireland last year as part of an "immigration investment programme" after donating 400,000 to a charity, ICARE Housing CLG. The couple faced bail objections during separate hearings before Judge John Campbell on Saturday. Detective Garda Steven Dunican and Barry Cusack voiced concerns about flight risk or that they could dispose of evidence. The alleged offences are under the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) Act which can carry a 14-year sentence, but gardai expect the DPP will authorise further more serious charges. Suspected investment fraud The detectives told Judge Campbell that on March 9, officers from a Garda economic crime unit received information from German police about a suspected investment fraud. A German national had 10,000 transferred from his bank to a Paytend digital bank account of Mr Wang. Detective Garda Cusack conducted inquiries with Paytend regarding Jixu Wang, and it was alleged the accused used his Chinese passport number on the account. Garda Cusack identified 1,894 "unusual transactions" that had been transferred into the account to the value of 5,043,705 received from 622 different Ibans [International Bank Account Numbers] over a five-month period between July 2 and November 9 last year. It was claimed that there were other unusual transactions between another Paytend account held by his wife, Ye Wang, who is a qualified accountant. Her Paytend account allegedly received 733 transactions valued at just over 2.1m from 321 different bank accounts between September 11, 2023, and January 12 this year. The court heard that GPS locations has been obtained for login dates for both Paytend accounts, matching their address. Unemployed couple had over 7m in accounts The detectives said both are unemployed but there was just over 7m in their accounts. Gardai including the Criminal Assets Bureau identified 14.7m in cryptocurrency wallets, of which 4.4m has been seized or frozen by the investigation team. Their apartment was searched, resulting in an alleged seizure of 20,000, gold coins, and five envelopes with "seed words" to access a cryptocurrency wallet. Documents, phones, and laptops have also been recovered. It was alleged Mrs Wang helped create fake documents to set up "money mule" accounts, but she denied knowing it was part of a crime. Judge Campbell said they had the presumption of innocence. However, he took into account the evidence and reasons for bail objections cited by Garda witnesses and the couple's lack of assets here. He described their ties to Ireland as "tenuous". They were remanded into prison custody to appear again on Wednesday. A Russian-Lebanese owner of a model agency encouraged a model from Cork to travel to Lebanon for work in November, before refusing to allow her to leave the war-stricken country until she paid nearly 2,000. Based in Greece, where her family moved from Ballydehob when she was a child, 28-year-old Fionnuala Watts currently works for a local Greek model agency. Earlier this year, the agency was approached by a Lebanese agency called Twice Management with an inquiry about whether Watts would be open to working in Lebanon. Initially, Ms Watts said no as the money offered was low and Lebanon seemed increasingly risky due to the ongoing war between Israel and Hezbollah. Despite the initial refusal, Twice Management continued to request her for work in Lebanon. On October 17, as the death toll in Lebanon passed 2,400, she had a video call with the Russian-Lebanese owner of the agency, Marina Sabaji, who told her that the war was not happening near where she lived north of Beirut or where Ms Watts would be working. Ms Watts claimed the agency's owner told her that the media was making the situation in Lebanon seem worse than it is. Picture: Hannah McCarthy The Cork woman said the Irish Government advised against travelling to Lebanon due to the war, but Ms Sabaji replied that embassies have to issue those types of warnings and that the media is making the situation in Lebanon seem worse than it is. The two women connected on Instagram where Ms Sabajis personal account featured recent photos of her dining out at restaurants and at the beach posing with her two young children. I spoke with a model who had worked in Lebanon earlier in the year, who said that it had been fine, and they got some good photos from their shoots, says Ms Watts, who says she saw working in Lebanon as an opportunity to add new photos to her portfolio and add a new country to her modelling work profile. 'Terrifying' Israeli airstrikes On November 10, she arrived in Beirut on a flight from Athens to start a month-long contract with Twice Management. She says it quickly became apparent that the situation was more dangerous than Ms Sabaji had presented. The driver for the agency told me I was very brave and there were no other models here, she says. I freaked out. Ms Watts describes hearing terrifying Israeli airstrikes near her soon after she arrived in Lebanon. The Irish woman says she was subjected to harsh and unsafe conditions by Twice Management, including being placed in what she described as an isolated and unsanitary model apartment in the town of Jounieh. Ms Watts shared an unsigned copy of her model contract and a photo of a video camera which was placed inside the model apartment with the Irish Examiner. The contract stipulated that the model was prohibited from going anywhere, except to the nearest supermarket and park; that the apartment was equipped with a camera directed at the entrance door; and that if the model attempted to leave without permission, the contract would be terminated and no payment would be made to the model. Ms Watts shared a photo of the video camera placed inside the model apartment she was required to stay in while in Lebanon working for Twice Management. Picture: Hannah McCarthy While working for Twice Management in Lebanon, Ms Watts says she was required to work for 12-hour shifts without proper food. Her first photoshoot was for Jean-Louis Sabaji a luxury Lebanese brand run by Sabajis husband Leonel Sabaji, and his brother Louis Sabaji who has designed dresses for celebrities including Beyonce and Rita Ora. On Thursday, Ms Sabaji shared an image of Ms Watts being photographed by Lebanese photographer Eddie Dagher on her personal Instagram account. The model also appears on Instagram advertisements for the Lebanese fashion brand Nakhle.Ets, which were posted on November 15. Soon after arriving in Lebanon, Ms Watts expressed concerns for her safety and asked to leave in two weeks after completing the jobs she had been booked for. Despite several airstrikes in the Beirut area that week, she says that Ms Sabaji threatened her with financial penalties if she left early. After speaking with her model agent in Greece and sharing her concerns, she booked a return flight leaving on November 14. She was, however, denied permission to leave Lebanon at passport control at Beirut Airport, as the necessary documents for her to leave had not been approved by Twice Management. 'High degree of control over workers' lives' Foreign workers in Lebanon are generally sponsored by agencies under the kafala system, which means their visas and employment contracts are linked. This means that workers cannot leave the country or change jobs without their employers permission. The high degree of control over workers lives under the kafala system has led to cases of human trafficking, forced labour, exploitation, and more, says Human Rights Watch, which frequently documents the non-payment of wages, forced confinement, withholding of identity documents, excessive working hours, and verbal, physical and sexual abuse". In a voice note that the Irish Examiner has reviewed, Ms Sabaji told Ms Watts: You violated our law by escaping in the middle of the night. You are still under the Twice Management visa and our apartment is assigned by management." You cannot sleep anywhere other than this apartment. That will be another violation of the law and the police and immigration can take you. This is very serious Ms Watts says an official at the Department of Foreign Affairs says they could not become involved as her case involved a private dispute. A spokesperson for the department told the Irish Examiner that it is aware of the case and has provided consular assistance, noting it does not comment on the details of individual cases. In a call to Ms Watts while she was at Beirut airport, Ms Sabaji demanded $2,000 from her for violating her contract and leaving Lebanon early. Ms Watts was promoted on the Twice Management Instagram account while working on photoshoots. Picture: Hannah McCarthy When she challenged the cost and noted that she had completed three jobs, she says that Ms Sabaji told her that she could raise the cost by several thousand dollars if she wanted. Ms Sabaji told Ms Watts that, under the terms of the contract, she was required to return to the model apartment. Ms Watts messaged the Irish Examiner as she was driven to the model apartment, along the highway to Jounieh which has been struck since the war in Lebanon escalated in September. After sending 1,977 via Western Union to Ms Sabaji, she was brought to the Beirut office of the Lebanese security agency, which oversees sponsored work visas, where an official signed and stamped her visa for exit on Friday morning. I heard a massive [airstrike] near me this morning while I was doing the paperwork Ms Watts left Lebanon on Friday evening aboard a flight that she paid for, despite the contract with Twice Management providing for a return flight. In response to a request for comment made on a phone call, Ms Sabaji said dont bother and did not respond to a message sent via Whatsapp which set out the claims made by Ms Watts. Twice Management is currently promoting a new foreign model for work on its website. Ms Watts says she contacted the new model to warn her to have an evacuation plan. Replacement dentures, sanctions for a rogue fortune teller, and free Sky Sports TV these are just some of the weird and whacky requests made of this years election hopefuls. The publics most outlandish asks have failed to put a dampener on the current crop of candidates' political ambitions. They have, at times, even proved amusing. So says TD Mick Barry (People Before Profit-Solidarity alliance), who is running in the Cork North-Central constituency. He highlighted one particularly strange request from a disgruntled constituent. I had a guy who wanted me to advise him on how to make an official complaint because he had gone to a fortune teller and the fortune tellers predictions had not come true. Im not sure what he wanted. He figured that if this guys predictions werent coming true then he shouldnt be in fortune telling. It wasnt clear whether he wanted to make sure the fortune teller never worked again or he just wanted to get his money back. It takes all kinds to make a world I suppose. Fine Gael candidate for Cork North-West Cllr John Paul OShea has had his own fair share of odd propositions, more recently while out canvassing. After being questioned about their most pressing issues, one homeowner didnt hold back, telling Mr OShea he would get his vote in exchange for free Sky. What he really wanted was the sports channels and he wanted to get them free. He didnt want to get them illegally. His hope was that I would ring up Sky myself and use my powers of persuasion to try to blag him some free channels. "Of course, this wasnt possible so I promised I would have the information sent out to him. At least that way hed be able to see the price range and get a reasonable package. I was able to organise that much for him at least. 'I had a guy who wanted me to advise him on how to make an official complaint because he had gone to a fortune teller and the fortune tellers predictions had not come true.' Independent TD Verona Murphy, who is running in the Wexford constituency, never imagined her job description might also include tooth fairy. An elderly gentleman called to see me in the office. He thought he had lost his dentures in UHW [University Hospital Waterford] and wanted me to find them or get him a new set. He hadnt called to his dentist, nor would he as if anyone can find them Verona can! Luckily, the man had a favourable outcome. We made representation to the HSE to get a new set of dentures approved. A local dentist then obliged. Alls well that ends well. Cllr William OLeary is running as an Independent candidate in the general election for Cork East. He has also received entertaining calls from constituents, with all manner of requests. Matchmaking request "There was one man who rang me asking if I could make contact with a single woman we knew on his behalf. He wanted me to put in a good word for him. Im shy myself, never mind him. The reality is that people are lonely. These people certainly arent on dating apps." Another constituent hoped the councillor could put an end to his drink-driving ban. Cllr William OLeary, who is running as an Independent candidate in the general election for Cork East, was asked by a constituent to end his drink-driving ban. File picture: Collins This person had a couple of years of the ban under his belt and he wanted the last year cut short. What can you do besides tell them that youre not the law? Thirty years ago, politicians would have been able to do things like that so that mentality is still with some people. "I explained in no uncertain terms that this was not my place or my role and that he needed to speak to his solicitor. If you are in politics whether its at a local or national level people think you are everything. They think you are a solicitor, medical officer, social welfare officer and engineer. You are supposed to be all things to all people but in reality you are none of the above. You can only try to represent people as best you can. Fine Gaels Una McCarthy, running in Cork South-Central, will never forget a phone call she received on the day of her daughters Confirmation. It was from a man who was preparing to sit his driver theory test for the fourth time. He didnt understand the questions and wanted me to go through them with him on the morning of the test. The test was in Monaghan. This is the level of service people have come to expect. "Although he was very nice about it there was no way I would have been able to travel that far so I pointed him in the direction of his own local councillor. He rang me again after the test to tell me that he had failed and he hoped that I could help him next time. 3.15am phone call Sinn Fein's Cork East general election candidate Pat Buckley says he loves hearing from constituents just not at 3.15am. One fella called me from his hospital bed saying that he wanted to chat because he was bored, he told the Irish Examiner. There were a few choice words from my side. "Someone else knocked on the door of my house on a Sunday morning of a bank holiday weekend about a planning application. Cork North Central general election candidate Cllr Tony Fitzgerald (Fianna Fail) has also been on the receiving end of late-night calls. I got a phone call at 2am from two men having a fireside chat, the councillor said. They were having a disagreement and needed to know the year a TD in Limerick had died. These lads wouldnt be into Google. I thought there had been an accident. Once I got over the fact that there wasnt, I pointed out that it was 2am. They didnt seem too taken aback. Councillor and Labour general election candidate for Limerick City Conor Sheehan says he has come to the rescue of countless constituents. 'A guy asked me to mow his lawn' A guy asked me to mow his lawn, he said. He was around 90 years of age. I could see him struggling so I had no problem doing it. "Someone else asked me if I would dress up as Santa for a community event after their original Santa cancelled. It was during covid and I had to wear a mask underneath the big beard. Kerry-based Michael Healy-Rae (Independent) told the Irish Examiner: Theres one man who has told me that Ill get his vote if I find him a wife. Ill have to try anyway. Mallow-based councillor and secondary school teacher Eoghan Kenny is running for Labour in the Cork North Central constituency. 'I had a call at 2am during the school holidays from someone complaining about a pothole. It was only when I returned back to work that I learned that this wasnt an adult concerned about a pothole, but a group of my students ringing from a sleepover.' I had a call at 2am during the school holidays from someone complaining about a pothole. It was only when I returned back to work that I learned that this wasnt an adult concerned about a pothole, but a group of my students ringing from a sleepover. "Like most public representatives my number is online so this was how they caught me out. They were extremely convincing because I wasnt even teaching in Mallow and they knew the name of the main street. I thought it was a good joke to be honest. You have to be able to take these things well. Fine Gael councillor Garret Kelleher (Cork North-Central) was asked to provide technical support to one frustrated local. He had all the other channels but couldnt get RTE One and RTE Two. He wanted me to resolve the problem but I was no good to them. Limerick county councillor Bridie Collins (FF) says while some requests are bizarre they can also be heartbreaking. I had a man asked me to fix his mobile phone. When I met him at the shop he handed me a television remote. He must have suffered from dementia. That really struck me. You have to be human about it. The man was struggling and it didnt cost me anything to help. Labour candidate for Cork South-West Evie Nevin recalls one opportunist. I still remember getting a message from a man who got my phone number online. He asked me if I wanted to go for a drink with him. He was contacting me even though he probably knew I was a married woman. I would have declined either way. Read More Latest: Independent candidates surge in latest poll as major parties slip Opinion / Columnist The prevalence of fake academic qualifications in Zimbabwe is a pressing issue that continues to undermine public trust in government and institutions. A recent case involving Harare City Council's Takudzwa Dzumbunu, who misled a Commission of Inquiry about her qualifications, underscores this troubling trend. Dzumbunu falsely claimed to hold a Bachelor of Science Honours degree, later admitting she had not completed her studies. This incident illustrates a broader problem, many officials are operating under fraudulent credentials, which raises serious questions about their competence.The absence of a reliable qualification verification system in Zimbabwe has allowed this misconduct to flourish. The Zimbabwe Institution of Engineers (ZIE) developed a verification system through its ICT division, ZICT, aimed at addressing the rampant issue of fake qualifications. However, the rollout has faced significant resistance. Many individuals who were supposed to endorse the system were themselves found to have falsified qualifications, creating a conflict of interest that stalled its implementation.Recent audits have revealed that numerous senior managers across various sectors possess fake qualifications, further highlighting the urgent need for reform. If a thorough verification process were implemented to check the credentials of all government and council officials, it is likely that only a handful would pass the scrutiny.Addressing the crisis of fake qualifications is essential for restoring integrity and accountability in Zimbabwean governance. A robust verification system would not only improve the quality of leadership but also enhance public confidence in institutions. The time has come for decisive action to combat this pervasive issue, ensuring that only qualified individuals hold positions of responsibility.Engineer Jacob Kudzayi Mutisi Labour has called for Maternity Benefit to be linked to a mothers pay as the party vowed to increase paid parental leave to up to a year. Party leader Ivana Bacik made the pledge as she launched the party's manifesto, which also calls for the introduction of 30,000 new public childcare places over five years. The manifesto, titled Building Better Together, is promising to deal with six missions over a five-year term of Government. These include dealing with the housing crisis, tackling low pay, a cost-of-living action plan, and a new charter for childrens rights. Ms Bacik said her party would deliver 6,000 public childcare places each year, with the new public system to cost parents 50 a week. Other measures proposed by Labour include a second tier of child benefit targeted to those on lower incomes. Among the promises set out by Ms Bacik are a pledge to index link social welfare payments, tax credits, and tax bands to cost-of-living increases. This means that payments, such as the State pension, would rise at a regular rate, rather than being decided on a budget-by-budget basis. The partys finance spokesperson, Ged Nash, said this means that social welfare payments would increase by a minimum of 15 every year. He added that Labour will remove the existing means test for the Carers Allowance and hike the half rate for the payment. Construction goals The Labour leader has pitched the establishment of a State-run construction company, which would be done through reforms to the existing Land Development Agency (LDA), as well as the construction of 50,000 new homes a year. Currently, constructions costs particularly apartment builds have got so high that private sector builders simply cannot afford to bear the risk. Only the State can do that, Ms Bacik said. She said a State construction company is the most practical way of delivering homes at scale, while adding that her suggestion would not mean the Government takes over all construction in the country. On healthcare, the party is proposing to bring forward free GP care for under 18s. However, it wants to see it extended out to everyone into the future. It is also calling for the HSE to be funded to directly hire GPs as staff working out of primary care centres. Meanwhile, Mr Nash criticised Fine Gael leader Simon Harris, saying his partys proposals to slash taxes and further increase spending were akin to Celtic Tiger proposals. Simon Harriss new energy is starting to look like a Charlie McCreevy and Brian Cowen tribute act. Most of us remember the hangover and some of us dont want to go there again, Mr Nash said. Pressed on if he believed Mr Harriss commitments to spending increases and tax cuts would bankrupt the country, Mr Nash said there are risks associated with the propositions of both Fine Gael and Fianna Fail. Its not that long ago when governments in this country decided that they were going to introduce very significant tax cuts, while at the same time invest in public services. We know where that got this country, Mr Nash said. The Labour TD said there are sitting ministers in the outgoing government who created the mess and others who fixed it, while adding that they have very short memories indeed. Promises contained within the manifesto include: Establishing a new Department of Unification, under the remit of the Taoiseach, which would be responsible for reconciliation, harmonisation, and planning for Irish unity; Introducing a full year of paid parental leave and phasing in pay-related Maternity Benefit; Remove the Carers' Allowance means test; Make a series of reforms to accountability structures for Government ministers and senior civil servants; Introduce a new agency for integration, migration, and asylum; Introduce a new tax on SUVs and heavy cars. Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon has hit out at Gerry Hutch, saying that the criminal candidate has not been around the Dublin Central constituency in recent years. It follows Mr Hutchs comments over the weekend that the four TDs for Dublin Central had done shag all over the last few years. Mr Gannon took aim at Mr Hutch, saying that Mr Hutch is unaware of the work the Social Democrats TD has done in recent years. Does Gerry Hutch know the work that Ive had to do over the last number of years just to get the money together to pay for the electricity for his own boxing club? Gerry Hutch wants to be a politician, let's treat him like one. He talks about being a businessman, he has all these assets all over the world. Does he know how much weve had to do just to keep the lights on in his own boxing club? Mr Gannon said. Gary Gannon said that Mr Hutch is unaware of the work the Social Democrats TD has done in recent years. File Picture: Damien Storan The Dublin Central TD referred to the Corinthians Boxing Club, saying that he has had to corral the local council for lighting, equipment, and punching bags at the club. Gerry Hutch must not be aware of all of those things, he said. This community has trauma that is generational. It wont be sorted by people standing up and pretending to be some sort of saviours It needs dogged work that happens when all the cameras turn off and we have to go into the community centres, we have to go into the youth clubs. Trying to find funding, trying to talk about the need, trying to get people into the community like drug-related intimidation workers. This is all the dogged work that has to happen. 'Happy to stand over my record' Mr Gannon said that if Mr Hutch wants to be a political leader, ask him where he was for the last any number of years. I was born and raised in this area. Gerry Hutch decided to move himself out to Clontarf. Im happy to stand over my record in this community, Mr Gannon said. He said that there are likely to be some supporters of Mr Hutch around the constituency. People want to vote for people whose values they believe in, Mr Gannon said, while saying his love for education was due to it changing his own life. Mr Gannon said that it was not for him to say if it was appropriate for Mr Hutch to run, but that he was willing to debate him on issues within the north inner city. Im happy to confront him in terms of what I would do differently, what I would do better, and what my community needs and how I have served it for the last 10 years, Mr Gannon said. Its been a week of intense negotiations in Azerbaijan for Cop29. Billed as the finance Cop, discussions on the New Collective Quantified Goal (a financial target to support developing countries in their climate actions after 2025) are at the heart of what needs to be agreed before this crucial climate summit concludes. The coming days are make or break for all our futures. The current lack of climate finance is pushing the planet to the brink. Rather than a climate finance goal of $100bn, as previously agreed, this figure has to be in the trillions now in order to help Global South countries already drowning in debt from climate impacts. This commitment of trillions will also help leapfrog the fossil fuel era by funding the scale up to renewable energy. The Global South is already paying the cost of floods, droughts, cyclones and destruction caused by climate change. Women are disproportionately impacted: Women and children, for example, are 14 times more likely than men to die during climate-related disasters, such as floods or cyclones, due to social and cultural barriers. In order to transition to greener pathways, they need finance from rich countries. This is not a matter of charity; its a matter of justice and righting a fundamental wrong. Rich countries are most responsible for causing climate change but are providing far too little support to countries who are impacted and harmed the most in the Global South. The estimated fair cost for developed countries is to pay $5,000bn per year in grant-based finance. At Cop29 however, the push is to get agreement on $1tn per year, way below what is required. The pressure must be kept this week on rich countries to step up and deliver the finance that is urgently needed to give humanity a real chance of averting runaway climate breakdown. Up to this point, it has been largely civil servants in Azerbaijan, working desperately hard to negotiate how this goal can be achieved. Nothing is resolved in week one, but the gulf in views is laid bare. The result is a sprawling and scrambled negotiations text that covers the good and the bad of climate finance, the scale of the money, the quality, whether through loans and investments or public finance, with questions of who should be on the hook on the table developed countries or some developing countries too. It is now in the hands of political leaders who converge this week. There will be vastly opposing world views, pressure to cave, immense efforts to persuade, all in the backdrop of a tense global political climate. Activists demonstrate for climate justice and a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war at Cop29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, last week. Picture: Rafiq Maqbool/AP The backdrop to these talks is the failure to stop war and a plausible genocide in Gaza, and a global rise of the far right with a deadly anti climate action agenda. All of this is happening as we find ourselves in a general election campaign here in Ireland, with housing and the cost of living dominating the political agenda. The idea that Ireland plays its part and forks out billions to the Global South in climate finance will seem impossible, with so many homeless and families suffering with high prices of food and essential goods. But we think in the short term at our peril. It is always the poorest who suffer the most, in Ireland, and in Bangladesh, and in Ethiopia. We must put a better future front and centre in our present. Every penny spent now to avoid climate disasters later will be the best money we can spend, for Ireland and the world. This is needed along with reducing our emissions in Ireland and ensuring we do our fair share here. Future of planet depends on just climate action It is not an over statement in any way to say that the future of our planet depends on just climate action. It is of huge concern that governments from the Global North are emphasising the role of private finance when it comes to climate finance and the new goal. This is being framed that climate injustice is essentially an issue of access to private finance on fairer terms. Rather, the injustice is the failure of rich polluting countries to repay the climate debt of the historic responsibilities we owe to the countries on the frontline of the climate crisis. Yes the private sector has a huge role to play. The shift to renewables will crucially involve private sector innovation in green renewable energy. However, it is a false economy to think that the private sector can be the driver of climate finance. The countries that are most vulnerable to the climate breakdown are also facing a debt crisis. ActionAid research found that where data is available, 93% of the countries most vulnerable to the climate crisis are in, or at significant risk of debt distress. The need to service external debt in foreign currency has become a major accelerator of the climate crisis. There is a vicious cycle between the debt and climate crises, each reinforcing the other. Having more than two thirds of climate finance in the form of loans serves to exacerbate this debt crisis. The real value of these loans is often over-stated and yet, alarmingly, many of the proposals presently being considered for expanding climate finance seem to be focused on even more loans rather than exploring fairer and more sustainable alternatives. The central issue of publicly funded climate finance, not loans, and ending the ever-expanding use of fossil fuels and large-scale agriculture, are among the most important issues the globe needs to focus on. The experiences of communities in the Niger Delta provides a snapshot of what people in the global south are facing and a stark reminder of the human cost of fossil fuels. My colleague, Friday Ogezi, the ActionAid International Climate Justice Advisor for Liberia and Nigeria who is at Cop29, said this week that every day more than 2.5bn cubic feet of natural gas are flared in the Niger Delta, releasing pollutants that have poisoned water sources, destroyed farmland, and sickened people. Activists participate in a demonstration against fossil fuels at the Cop29 UN Climate Summit, on Saturday. Picture: Peter Dejong/AP He said: The once vibrant community is now a shadow of its former self. The oil companies have stolen our future. We demand a just transition backed by adequate finance in the form of grants. The time for empty promises is over. It's time for action. A just transition is in all our interests. Crucial decisions and action are needed to halt the runaway climate change train, and ensure a safe, just and more equal world for future generations. Ireland must also play its part and in this election voters should demand this better future of Irish politicians. The Stop Climate Chaos Coalition, of which Action Aid Ireland is a member, is hosting a hustings this Wednesday in which representatives of all parties are invited to participate, and outline what their priorities are. Tackling the climate crisis must be at the top of the new governments agenda. Our future is in their hands. A fossil free world, built on justice, is the only future. In their final meeting, Chinas leader Xi Jinping told US President Joe Biden that China is ready to work with a new administration, as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take over. The two leaders met on Saturday on the sidelines of the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation summit. Mr Biden was expected to urge Mr Xi to dissuade North Korea from further deepening its support for Russias war on Ukraine. President Joe Biden during the taking of the leaders group photo, at the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation summit, in Lima, Peru, on Saturday (Fernando Vergara/AP) Mr Biden said he was proud of the work the nations had achieved since their last meeting, which was last year on the sidelines of the conference held in San Francisco. Over the past four years, China-US relations have experienced ups and downs, but with the two of us at the helm, we have also engaged in fruitful dialogues and co-operation, and generally achieved stability, Mr Biden said. It is the last time they will meet officially; Mr Biden is leaving office and making way for Mr Trump. There is much uncertainty about what lies ahead in the US-China relationship under Mr Trump, who campaigned promising to levy 60% tariffs on Chinese imports. Saturdays talks in Peru come just over two months before Mr Biden leaves office and makes way for Republican President-elect Mr Trump. Mr Biden on Friday, along with South Korean President Yoon Seok Yul and Japans Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, condemned North Korean leader Kim Jong Uns decision to send thousands of troops to help Moscow repel Ukrainian forces who have seized territory in Russias Kursk border region. Mr Biden called it dangerous and destabilising co-operation. Russia has launched a massive drone and missile attack on Ukraine, described by officials as the largest for three months, targeting energy infrastructure and killing civilians. The attack came as fears are mounting about Moscows intentions to devastate Ukraines power generation capacity ahead of the cold winter. Ukraines President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, said that Russia had launched a total of 120 missiles and 90 drones in a large-scale attack across Ukraine. Various types of drones were deployed, he said, including Iranian-made Shaheds, as well as cruise, ballistic and aircraft-launched ballistic missiles. Ukrainian defence forces shot down 140 air targets, Mr Zelenskyy said in a statement on Telegram. The enemys target was our energy infrastructure throughout Ukraine. Unfortunately, there is damage to objects from hits and falling debris. In Mykolaiv, as a result of a drone attack, two people were killed and six others were injured, including two children, Mr Zelenskyy said. Two others were killed in the Odesa region, where the attack damaged energy infrastructure and disrupted power and water supplies, said local governor Oleh Kiper. The combined drone and missile attack was the most powerful in three months, according to Serhii Popko, the head of Kyivs City Military Administration. Russian strikes have hammered Ukraines power infrastructure since Moscows all-out invasion of its neighbour in February 2022, prompting repeated emergency power shutdowns and nationwide rolling blackouts. Ukrainian officials have routinely urged western allies to bolster the countrys air defences to counter assaults and allow for repairs. Explosions were heard across Ukraine on Sunday, including in the capital, Kyiv, the key southern port of Odesa, as well as the countrys west and central regions, according to local reports. The operational command of Polands armed forces wrote on X that Polish and allied aircraft, including fighter jets, have been mobilised in Polish airspace because of the massive Russian attack on neighbouring Ukraine. The steps were aimed to provide safety in Polands border areas, it said. One person was injured after the roof of a five-storey residential building caught fire in Kyivs historic centre, according to Mr Popko. At least two people were killed and six were wounded, including two children, in the eastern city of Mykolaiv, according to local governor Vitalii Kim. A thermal power plant operated by private energy company DTEK was seriously damaged, the company said in a statement on Telegram. A rare Israeli air strike on central Beirut has killed Hezbollahs chief spokesman, an official with the militant group said. Earlier, Israeli strikes killed at least 12 people in the Gaza Strip, officials said, where Israel has been at war with Hamas for more than a year. The latest in a series of targeted killings of senior Hezbollah officials came as Lebanese officials were considering a United States-led ceasefire proposal. Israel also bombed several buildings in Beiruts southern suburbs, where Hezbollah has long been headquartered, after warning people to evacuate. People search through the rubble of a destroyed building at the site of an Israeli air strike in central Beirut (Bilal Hussein/AP) Mohammed Afif, the head of media relations for Hezbollah, was killed in a strike on the Arab socialist Baath partys office in central Beirut, according to a Hezbollah official. Mr Afif had remained especially visible after the eruption of all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah in September and the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, who was also targeted by an Israeli air strike. Last month, Mr Afif had hastily wrapped up a press conference in Beirut ahead of Israeli strikes. The last Israeli strike in central Beirut was on October 10, when 22 people were killed in strikes on two locations. Hezbollah began firing rockets, missiles and drones into Israel the day after Hamass attack on October 7 2023, which ignited the war in Gaza. Israel launched retaliatory air strikes in Lebanon and the conflict steadily escalated, erupting into all-out war in September. Israeli forces invaded Lebanon on October 1. Smoke rises from a building hit in an Israeli air strike on southern Lebanon (Mohammed Zaatari/AP) Hezbollah has continued to fire dozens of projectiles into Israel each day and has expanded their range to the central part of the country. A rocket barrage on the northern city of Haifa on Saturday damaged a synagogue and wounded two civilians. More than 3,400 people have been killed in Lebanon, according to the countrys health ministry, and more than 1.2 million driven from their homes. It is not known how many of the dead are Hezbollah fighters. On the Israeli side, Hezbollahs aerial attacks have killed at least 76 people, including 31 soldiers, and caused some 60,000 people to flee from communities in the north. Israeli strikes killed six people in Nuseirat and another four in Bureij, two built-up refugee camps in central Gaza. Another two people were killed in a strike on Gazas main north-south highway, according to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in the central city of Deir al-Balah, which received all 12 bodies. The war between Israel and Hamas began after Palestinian militants stormed into Israel in 2023, killing about 1,200 people mostly civilians and abducting 250 others. Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, about a third of them believed to be dead. A protest in Tel Aviv demanded a ceasefire deal to return the hostages (Francisco Seco/AP) The health ministry in Gaza says around 43,800 Palestinians have been killed in the war. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but has said women and children make up more than half the fatalities. Around 90% of Gazas population of 2.3 million Palestinians have been displaced, and large areas of the territory have been flattened by Israeli bombardment and ground operations. Israeli police meanwhile arrested three suspects after flares were fired at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus private residence in the coastal city of Caesarea. Mr Netanyahu and his family were not at the residence when two flares were fired at it overnight, and there were no injuries, authorities said. A drone launched by Hezbollah struck the residence last month, also when Mr Netanyahu and his family were away. The police did not provide details about the suspects behind the flares, but officials pointed to domestic political critics of Mr Netanyahu. Israels largely ceremonial president, Isaac Herzog, condemned the incident and warned against an escalation of the violence in the public sphere. Flares were fired at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus private residence (AP) Mr Netanyahu has faced months of mass protests over his handling of the hostage crisis unleashed by Hamass attack on Israel in 2023. Critics blame Mr Netanyahu for the security and intelligence failures that allowed the attack to happen and for not reaching a deal with Hamas to release scores of hostages still held inside Gaza. Israelis rallied again in the city of Tel Aviv on Saturday night to demand a ceasefire deal to return them. Israeli justice minister Yariv Levin seized on the flare attack on Mr Netanyahus home to call for a revival of his plans to overhaul the Israeli judiciary, which had sparked months of mass protests before the war. The time has come to provide full support for the restoration of the justice system and the law enforcement systems, and to put an end to anarchy, rampage, refusal, and attempts to harm the prime minister, he said in a statement. Supporters said the judiciary changes aim to strengthen democracy by circumscribing the authority of unelected judges and turning over more powers to elected officials. Opponents see the overhaul as a power grab by Mr Netanyahu. People gather in Tel Aviv to protest against Benjamin Netanyahus government and call for the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip by Hamas (Francisco Seco/AP) Many Israelis believe the fierce internal divisions caused by the attempted overhaul had weakened the country and its military ahead of the Hamas assault. Opposition leader Yair Lapid said in a post on X that he strongly condemns the firing of flares at Mr Netanyahus home while criticising Mr Levins proposal. Levin should go home with rest of this irresponsible government, Mr Lapid wrote. We will not let him turn Israel into an undemocratic state. Pope Francis has called for an investigation to determine if Israels attacks in Gaza constitute genocide, according to excerpts released from an upcoming new book ahead of the pontiffs jubilee year. It is the first time that Francis has openly urged for an investigation of genocide allegations over Israels actions in the Gaza Strip. In September, he said Israels attacks in Gaza and Lebanon have been immoral and disproportionate, and that its military has gone beyond the rules of war. The book, by Hernan Reyes Alcaide and based on interviews with the pope, will be released on Tuesday. According to some experts, what is happening in Gaza has the characteristics of a genocide, the pope said in excerpts published on Sunday by the Italian daily La Stampa. We should investigate carefully to determine whether it fits into the technical definition formulated by jurists and international bodies, he added. Last year, Francis met separately with relatives of Israeli hostages in Gaza and Palestinians living through the war and set off a firestorm by using words that Vatican diplomats usually avoid: terrorism and, according to the Palestinians, genocide. Smoke rises from buildings following an Israeli airstrike in Dahiyeh, Beirut, Lebanon, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Bilal Hussein) Francis spoke at the time about the suffering of both Israelis and Palestinians after his meetings, which were arranged before the Israeli-Hamas hostage deal and a temporary halt in fighting was announced. The pontiff, who last week also met a delegation of Israeli hostages who were released, had editorial control over the book. The war started when the militant Hamas group attacked Israel on October 7 2023, killing 1,200 people and abducting 250 as hostages and taking them back to Gaza, where dozens still remain. Israels subsequent military campaign has killed more than 43,000 people, according to Gaza health officials, whose count does not distinguish between civilians and fighters, though they say more than half of the dead are women and children. The Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza has triggered several legal cases at international courts in The Hague involving requests for arrest warrants as well as accusations and denials of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. In the new book, Francis also speaks about migration and the problem of integrating migrants in their host countries. Faced with this challenge, no country can be left alone and no one can think of addressing the issue in isolation through more restrictive and repressive laws, sometimes approved under the pressure of fear or in search of electoral advantages, Francis said. On the contrary, just as we see that there is a globalisation of indifference, we must respond with the globalisation of charity and co-operation, he added. Francis also mentioned the still open wound of the war in Ukraine has led thousands of people to abandon their homes, especially during the first months of the conflict. - Associated Press Court documents have revealed new and disturbing information regarding the arrest of a University of Virginia student earlier this month. Robert Romer, the 20-year-old second-year student charged Nov. 1 with threatening his housemate and brandishing a firearm at the former fraternity house where they live, faces allegations of extreme antisemitism directed at the same housemate. I had requested that he stop posting anti-Semitic memes on text and in person, the aggrieved housemate, whose name The Daily Progress will not be using out of concern for his safety, wrote in his criminal complaint against Romer. He told police that one meme featured a picture of American President Andrew Jackson captioned Battle of 1820 atop another picture depicting orthodox Jews fighting police under the caption Battle of $18.20. He said that Romer reposted the offending meme in a group chat to convey his displeasure with his decision to host a party in their shared residence, the former Pi Kappa Alpha house at 513 Rugby Road in the citys Venable neighborhood near UVa Grounds. Around 11:20 p.m. on Oct. 23, Romer wrote something that his housemate, who is Jewish, construed as a threat. At approximately 12:30, I am going to free Palestine, Romer allegedly texted the group. Anyone is welcome to join in the beating. The housemate said his antagonist had been prodding other residents for his whereabouts, telephoned him to obtain his location and in at least one text message surrounded his name with Stars of David. Robs texts made me incredibly uncomfortable, and I made sure to lock my door at night, he told police. The housemate related that four other residents of the house also treated him harshly, including surrounding and screaming at him about his party, but that entreaties of violence came only from Romer. He also attempted to fight me asking multiple times, You wanna go? and Lets go right now, Ill take my belt off right now. He said that he then fled to his bedroom but Romer followed and prevented him from closing his door by blocking it. Robert is bigger than I am, and I was worried, the housemate wrote. He told authorities that the night of Oct. 30 after returning from the library, he entered his bedroom to find Romer there clutching a pistol. I called the police and UVa dean after discussing with my parents my concern, wrote the housemate, who traced the guns ownership to another student, who has not been charged with any crime. If the charges against him are true, in addition to the criminal allegations, Romer also would appear to have run afoul of his landlords lease. Firearms are not allowed on the Premises, reads a lease provision supplied by Charlottesville-based Management Services Corporation, the property manager at 513 Rugby Road. MSC manages the 18-bedroom house for its owner, West Range Castle Dango LLC, a company affiliated with the national fraternity Pi Kappa Alpha. The UVa chapter of Pike, which happens to be the founding chapter of the nationwide fraternity, was terminated in April after brothers were found to be participating in illegal hazing activities. The house was then offered for lease by MSC, which advertised it for $23,000 per month. MSC spokesman Stephen Colvin said in an email to The Daily Progress that the property is leased not room by room but jointly and severally, an arrangement that makes each tenant individually liable for their share while allowing the landlord to hold any and all renters responsible for transgressions by the others. Colvin, however, declined to say whether Romers lease had been breached given the allegations against him. We are not permitted to discuss the confidential records of the residents, Colvin said in his email. MSCs tact differs from its response to another criminal charge lodged against a resident at one of its properties earlier this year. In February, the company moved to evict a man charged with sexually assaulting a woman on the citys Rivanna Trail allegations that later turned out to be unfounded. Despite the mans widely publicized protests of innocence, MSC gave him three days to vacate the apartment he had shared with his fiancee and declined to withdraw the litigation to oust him until the assault charge was dropped three months after its filing. At press time, Romers name does not appear in Charlottesvilles civil court docket, where an eviction would be filed. The Romer family denies the charges against their son. A thorough review of the events will show that there was no hate, no assault and no brandishing, according to a statement from his father Tom Romer. Robert looks forward to proving his innocence and sharing the full story in court and the media thereafter, the statement continues. We respectfully request that judgement be withheld until the facts are presented in court. Initially jailed upon his arrest on Nov. 1, he was released later that day on a $5,000 secured bail and must appear in Charlottesville General District Court on Nov. 26 to advise the court the name of his lawyer. Correction This story has been corrected to say the date of the alleged crime occurred on Oct. 30. Evolving COP Dynamics Highlight Need for a More Agile Change Structure Making efforts to keep the global temperature increase below 1.5C is progressively becoming more challenging. A growing sense of urgency is emerging among the top United Nations advisers regarding this issue. This urgency is evident following the release of an open letter this week calling for reforms to the COP climate negotiations process. The situation has worsened due to the election of Donald Trump and heightened political divisions in the United States and beyond. At the Climate talks, there are 197 parties, in addition to the European Union. US Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm addresses the media at the UNFCCC COP29 Climate Conference. When nearly all nations are aligned and seeking to establish new emissions regulations or targets, the pressure intensifies on those few countries that resist. Most of these nations will ultimately yield under such pressure. We have frequently witnessed governments being coerced at COP meetings into endorsing climate-related targets they were initially reluctant to accept. This scenario played out at COP28 in Dubai last year, where, after intense peer pressure, Saudi Arabia and its allies reluctantly consented to include fossil fuel phase-out in the official agreement. However, the letter released this week highlights that the relentless pursuit of consensus, historically a cornerstone of climate negotiations, is now becoming a significant hindrance. Increasing global political polarization has resulted in prolonged negotiation processes that distract from fulfilling existing commitments. The letter argues that seeking consensus wastes precious time, especially when urgent climate action is essential to limit global warming. Among the signatories of the open letter are notable figures such as Mary Robinson, Chair of the Elders; former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon; former UN Climate Chief Christiana Figueres; and others associated with the Group of Rome. Every fraction of a degree in global warming is critical. The devastating impacts of climate change have been starkly visible in recent years. Health, livelihoods, food security, water supply, human security, and economic growth are all compromised as temperatures continue to rise. The alarming aftermath of the extreme rainfall in Spains Valencia region. The significant destruction caused by recent hurricanes, Milton and Helene, in the United States. Europe continually shatters summer temperature records, and it is evident that heat-related deaths far exceed those from storms and flooding. Moreover, rising sea levels pose an increasing threat to small island nations. Even if we could halt all global greenhouse gas emissions tomorrow, sea levels would continue to ascend for centuries due to the climate pollutants already in the atmosphere. Health, livelihoods, food security, water supply, human security, and economic progress all suffer as global temperatures escalate. Entire communities are at risk of being obliterated. As temperatures rise, vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever can spread more easily, as pathogens expand their range. Flora and fauna will lose their climate-suited habitats; failure to migrate will lead to extinction. The ramifications of failing to limit warming to 1.5C are dire. So, why squander precious time trying to gather everyone around a talks table to reach a consensus on new climate commitments when it is increasingly difficult to achieve agreement and the most significant player in these discussions, the United States, is poised to withdraw? This is one of the central arguments presented by the expert group. They aim to convey a critical point that deserves our attention. If Donald Trump, as he did previously and has indicated he would do again, withdraws the United States from climate discussions, it could encourage other countries to follow suit. This is precisely what the President of Argentina did recently. Activists stage a silent protest within the COP29 venue, demanding that wealthy nations provide climate financing to developing countries. He instructed his countrys climate negotiators to exit the COP29 talks in Baku and return home. President Javier Milei of Argentina is a prominent climate change skeptic, claiming that human-induced climate change is a fabricated narrative by socialists. His spokesperson mentioned that Donald Trump has told Mr. Milei that he considers him his favorite president globally. Interestingly, despite his skepticism about climate change, President Milei did send a delegation from Argentina to the climate talks in Baku. They were prepared for active participation until Mr. Milei abruptly withdrew them and mandated their return after Trumps election. The authors of the letter may be older, but they are certainly not inactive; they anticipated these developments and had previously voiced their concerns. In a prior open letter, issued 21 months ago, this same group forewarned the United Nations about the likely outcomes if it persisted in striving for a climate agreement among nearly 200 nations. They cautioned that pursuing consensus would lead to delays that the global community could no longer afford. On that occasion, as is now the case, they urged the UN to abandon the quest for consensus and focus instead on implementing existing climate commitments. Latest Climate stories In contrast to their previous letter, they waited three months following the conclusion of the COP27 meetings in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, before publishing their feedback. This delay was to ensure that their comments would not undermine the COP27 discussions while they were ongoing. However, this time, the situation is markedly different. They have strategically released this critical letter demanding reforms and asserting that the COP climate negotiations are inadequate during the peak of the ongoing talks in Baku, capturing global attention. This effort aims to attract maximum visibility and set a new agenda. The fundamental issues are not related to the organization or management of the negotiations (which have improved each year). Instead, it is about the shifting political landscape. The world surrounding the COP has transformed. We are witnessing increased polarization, regional conflicts, and a rise in populist sentiments in certain areas. Commitment to climate action is regressing in some regions. Many would concur that the current COP structure is incapable of delivering the rapid and transformative changes now necessary to secure a stable climate for humanity. Israel has initiated a series of airstrikes on Beirut and southern Lebanon, just one day after Lebanese government officials indicated they were considering a U.S.-proposed truce.Hamas, Hezbollah, and Islamic Jihad receive backing from Iran, Israels primary adversary, which has expressed support for a prompt resolution to the ongoing nearly two-month conflict in Lebanon. Since September 23, Israel has intensified its bombing campaign against targets in Lebanon, later deploying ground troops following nearly a year of limited cross-border skirmishes that began with Hezbollahs escalations related to the Gaza conflict. Lebanons state-run National News Agency (NNA) reported that the enemy executed three air raids in the morning and later confirmed another attack in the Chiyah neighborhood. A building has collapsed in the Ghobeiry district due to an Israeli strike targeting the Dahieh region of Beirut. NNA also detailed a strike in the southern city of Tyre, specifically in an area close to UNESCO-listed ancient ruins. In southern Lebanon, health ministry reports indicated that Israeli airstrikes resulted in the deaths of two rescuers from Hezbollah and its ally Amal. Hezbollah claimed responsibility for several rocket attacks on northern Israel, aiming at military sites, including a naval base in the Haifa region. Lebanese officials have stated that more than 3,440 individuals have lost their lives since October of last year, when exchanges of fire commenced between Hezbollah and Israel. In Gaza City, an Israeli strike tragically resulted in the deaths of 10 Palestinians and injured at least 20 more at a school in the Shati refugee camp, which was sheltering displaced families, according to medical sources. The rescue operations are currently in progress at the UN-run Abu Assi school, and health officials have indicated that there may still be people trapped under the debris. Israeli officials have not yet provided comments on the attack. The Israeli military has reported intercepting two rockets launched at Israel from northern Gaza. These launches demonstrate the capability of Palestinian militant factions to target Israel despite more than 13 months of relentless aerial and ground campaigns, which have devastated large areas of the enclave, displacing much of its 2.3 million residents. Palestinian health authorities reported that at least 30 individuals have been killed due to Israeli military operations throughout the territory. The Israeli military stated that its forces continued operational activities in the northern zones of Jabalia and Beit Lahia, areas that have been under significant assault since early October. Additionally, troops operated in the southern region of Rafah, according to military statements. Israel indicated that the resurgence of its operations in the heavily damaged north aims to prevent Hamas militants from organizing. A UN-backed assessment over the weekend warned that famine is imminent in northern Gaza, with UN data revealing that Israeli operations have caused at least 100,000 individuals to flee their homes. Israel has rejected a Human Rights Watch report released this week that stated its actions leading to Gazan displacement constitute a crime against humanity, as well as findings from a UN Special Committee pointing to military practices consistent with genocide. For further information regarding the Middle East conflict, a spokesman from the foreign ministry dismissed the HRW report as entirely false, while the United States, which primarily supports Israels military efforts, declared that allegations of genocide are undoubtedly unfounded. According to the Gaza health ministry, at least 35 individuals perished in the territory over the last 24 hours, bringing the total death toll during more than 13 months of conflict to 43,799. The majority of the deceased are reported to be civilians, based on figures considered reliable by the United Nations. The attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which ignited the current conflict, resulted in 1,206 fatalities, mostly civilians, as per an AFP tally from Israeli official sources. The civil defense agency documented 11 fatalities due to strikes across Gaza early on Saturday. In Rafah, local resident Jamil al-Masry described a house being struck, resulting in a massive explosion. In a rare acknowledgment of a strike in Syria, Israel confirmed targeting the Islamic Jihad group. A source from the group informed AFP that Abdel Aziz Minawi, a member of the Islamic Jihad political bureau, along with Rasmi Abu Issa, the groups head of foreign relations, were killed in the strike on Qudsaya, near Damascus. Islamic Jihad continues to hold several Israeli hostages taken during the October 7 assault on southern Israel. Earlier this week, the group released two video clips featuring Sasha Trupanov, a 29-year-old Russian-Israeli hostage. Israeli strikes in and around Damascus led to the deaths of 23 individuals earlier this week. As diplomatic efforts to resolve the Gaza conflict remain stalled, a senior official in Beirut reported that U.S. ambassador Lisa Johnson presented a 13-point proposal aimed at ceasing hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. This proposal includes a 60-day truce during which Lebanon would station troops along the border. The official mentioned that Israel has yet to respond to this initiative. A second Lebanese official, who requested anonymity while discussing sensitive topics, expressed optimism regarding the negotiations. A high-ranking advisor to Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has met with Lebanese officials in Beirut to discuss possible solutions. The health ministry in Gaza, governed by Hamas, reported that the ongoing conflict has resulted in a death toll of 43,799. Healthcare authorities in Hamas-controlled Gaza confirmed that at least 43,799 people have died amidst more than 13 months of conflict with Israel. This total includes 35 deaths within the last 24 hours, according to updates from the ministry, which reported 103,601 injuries since the outbreak of hostilities following the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. Palestinians who have been displaced from shelters are seen crossing into Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip. Hamass attack on October 7 led to the deaths of 1,206 individuals, primarily civilians, according to an assessment of Israeli official statistics. Responding to the need to prevent Hamas militants from regrouping in northern Gaza, Israel initiated a significant air and ground offensive in that area in October. The Israeli army stated earlier that its operations in the northern regions of Jabalia and Beit Lahia are ongoing. The military also emphasized that over the previous day, troops continued operations in Rafah, targeting numerous militants, dismantling terrorist facilities, and uncovering a significant cache of weapons in the southern territory. Russia unleashed a massive aerial assault involving missiles and drones on Ukraine, resulting in the deaths of at least nine individuals nationwide. This marked the largest attack in months, which Ukrainian officials described as hellish. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that Russia fired 120 missiles and nearly 100 drones, aiming at various regions, including southern, central, and far-western Ukraine. Civilians were reported dead in the Mykolaiv, Lviv, Kherson, Dnipropetrovsk, and Odesa regions. It was a hellish night, stated Yuriy Ignat, spokesperson for Ukraines air force, on social media, noting that Ukraine managed to intercept 144 targets. Ukrainian officials described this attack as one of the largest during the nearly three-year-long Russian invasion. We need your consent to load this comcast-player content. We use comcast-player to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preferences This is a massive attack on our country, said Mr. Zelensky. In the past week alone, the aggressor has deployed nearly 140 missiles of various types, over 900 guided aerial bombs, and more than 600 strike drones, he added, accusing Moscow of attempting to intimidate us with cold and blackouts. This assault occurred just two days after German Chancellor Olaf Scholz spoke with Russian leader Vladimir Putin for the first time in nearly two years. True response This is the true response of war criminal Mr. Putin to all those who recently called and visited him, remarked Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga following the attack. We seek peace through strength, not appeasement. Ukraine criticized Mr. Scholz for engaging with the Russian leader, a sentiment echoed by many in Germany. Nonetheless, Mr. Scholz reaffirmed Germanys support for Ukraine, emphasizing that no decisions regarding the end of the war would be made without Ukrainian input. Ukraine can count on us, and no decision will be made behind Ukraines back, the chancellor stated at Berlin airport before departing for a G20 meeting in Rio de Janeiro. In eastern Ukraine, where Russian forces have made consistent advances, Ukraines military has faced significant challenges. Police officers investigate a large fragment of a downed Russian hypersonic missile Zircon in Kyiv. The election of Donald Trump in the US has raised uncertainties regarding the conflicts future, especially given the Republican Partys strong criticism of US aid to Ukraine. Russia, on the other hand, claimed it had successfully hit all its targets, asserting that it aimed at essential energy infrastructure supporting the Ukrainian military-industrial complex. However, civilian casualties were reported across various regions in Ukraine. In Kherson, officials noted that a 51-year-old woman was killed by a drone strike. Civilian fatalities across the country In the southern Mykolaiv region, local leader Vitaliy Kim reported that two women were killed in a nighttime attack, with seven others, including two children, wounded. The death toll included two workers from the state railway company Ukrzaliznytsia in Nikopol, who died when a depot was struck, as confirmed by the Dnipropetrovsk regional governor, Sergiy Lysak, and the operator. Three additional individuals were injured in the bombing. In the Odesa region, two people also lost their lives, and a teenager sustained injuries. Maksym Kozytsky, the head of the Lviv region, mentioned that a 66-year-old woman was killed while in her car in the village of Sheptytsky, located about 20 kilometers from the Polish border. This incident prompted NATO-member Poland to scramble fighter jets and mobilize all available resources as a precaution. Poland places its armed forces on high alert whenever there are perceived threats due to attacks against its neighboring country. Additionally, Russia reported that a man was killed by a Ukrainian drone in its Belgorod region. Attacks on energy facilities throughout Ukraine Residents of Kyiv sought refuge underground as explosions echoed through the capital. On Sunday, Ukraines energy operator DTEK announced emergency power cuts in the Kyiv region and two eastern regions. President Zelensky has stated that the ongoing aerial bombardment by Russia has decimated half of Ukraines energy production capacity. Earlier, Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko mentioned on Telegram that Russian forces were targeting electricity generation and transmission facilities across Ukraine. Read more: Latest Ukraine stories With the harsh Ukrainian winter fast approaching, the country is already facing significant energy shortages, as its outnumbered and outgunned forces have been gradually yielding ground to Kremlin troops for weeks. Ukraine has urgently appealed to its Western allies for assistance in repairing its energy infrastructure a costly endeavor and in supplying its under-resourced military with additional air defense systems. However, many in Ukraine are concerned that support from the West may wane following the anticipated return of Mr. Trump to the White House in January. Zelensky of Ukraine Aims for Diplomatic Resolution to War by Next Year Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed that Ukraine aims to conclude the war with Russia next year through diplomatic means, particularly as both nations brace for Donald Trumps potential return to the White House. February 2025 would signify the third anniversary of Russias invasion of Ukraine, with Russian forces making recent gains against Kyivs severely outnumbered and outgunned troops. The possibility of Mr. Trump regaining power in the United States next year has sparked concerns regarding the conflicts future, given the Republican president-elects past criticisms of U.S. military assistance to Kyiv. Mr. Zelensky indicated that the war may end sooner than previously anticipated once Mr. Trump assumes the presidency. A resident walks by a wrecked building in Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine. The Ukrainian leaders remarks came a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in his first phone conversation with a significant Western leader in almost two years, conversing with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who initiated the call despite objections from Kyiv. On our side, we must do all we can to ensure that this war concludes next year. We need to settle it through diplomatic means, Mr. Zelensky stated during an interview with Ukrainian radio. This is crucial, in my opinion. While there have been no substantial discussions between Russia and Ukraine, Mr. Trumps potential re-election has cast the future of the brutal conflict into ambiguity, with the Republican frequently pledging to negotiate a swift resolution. We must comprehend what the Russians desire, Mr. Zelensky stated. Russian President Vladimir Putin has maintained that he would only consider negotiations with Ukraine if the Ukrainians relinquish territories currently occupied by Russia. The Kremlin reiterated this demand during the phone call with Mr. Scholz. The Ukrainian leader has firmly rejected Mr. Putins preconditions. North Korean Involvement As North Korea deploys troops into the most significant conflict on European soil since World War II, Russias invasion has triggered shockwaves that extend well beyond the continent. For weeks, Western nations and Ukraine have warned that thousands of North Korean troops have been aiding Russian forces in the Kursk region, where Ukraine has regained considerable territory since early August. This development follows months of strengthening military relations between the two former Communist allies, culminating in Russia and North Korea ratifying a notable defense agreement. After a month-long occupation, the bodies of numerous civilians were discovered shot in the streets, with some having their hands bound behind their backs. G7s Position on Ukraine Ukraine expressed outrage after Chancellor Scholz of Germany reached out to Mr. Putin. Germany stated that Mr. Scholz condemned Russias war of aggression against Ukraine and urged President Putin to withdraw troops. The statement also mentioned that Mr. Scholz called on Russia to demonstrate a willingness to negotiate with Ukraine for the purpose of achieving a just and lasting peace. However, Ukraine accused the German chancellor of an attempt at appeasement, arguing that the call would do little more than lessen Mr. Putins isolation. The chancellor, whose fragile coalition government collapsed last week, also faced backlash domestically, with the conservative opposition party branding the center-left leaders move as giving Mr. Putin a propaganda victory. Germanys Scholz spoke to Mr. Putin in a phone conversation yesterday. Mr. Scholz noted that he had consulted with Mr. Zelensky prior to the call with the Kremlin leader and had also updated other Western allies about the discussion. The G7, which comprises many of Ukraines principal supporters, affirmed that Russia remained the sole impediment to a just peace in Ukraine and pledged to enforce sanctions targeting Russia. Since this summer, Russia has made gradual advancements in eastern Ukraine, moving closer to critical hubs such as Pokrovsk and Kurakhove. Read more: Rebuilding Ukraine: investing in a time of war Mr. Zelensky remarked that Russian forces were incurring substantial losses and that their advances had slowed down in certain areas. He added that Ukraine was at war with a state that does not value its people, that possesses abundant equipment, and that is indifferent to the number of casualties. 11/17/2024 The ribbon cutting of the Victory Center on Friday, November 15. (JSU Photo) Jacksonville State University (Jax State) celebrated the grand opening of its Victory Center on Friday, November 15. This innovative facility is designed to serve veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. Located at Jax States McClellan Center, the center is a testament to the universitys commitment to honoring and supporting those who have served. Dr. Marie Valentin, Assistant Vice Provost of Institutional Research & Effectiveness and lead principal investigator of the Victory Center project, welcomed attendees with heartfelt words of gratitude for the partners who made the project possible. This facility reflects our dedication to the Total Military Community, she said, referring to veterans, active-duty members transitioning to civilian life, and their families. Its a place of hope, healing, and empowerment. A significant highlight of the event was the announcement of the Veteran and Spouse Transition Assistance Grant in the sum of $561,604 awarded by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Dr. Brent Cunningham, Dean of the College of Business and Industry, and Dr. Celestino Valentin, Department Head of Management and Marketing, revealed the news. Of 65 applications nationwide, Jax State was one of only 13 recipients and the only higher education institution in Alabama selected for this prestigious award, Cunningham said. The grant will fund the Victory Workforce Development Services program, which will offer career training, leadership development, and entrepreneurship workshops tailored to veterans and their spouses. From resume assistance to project management training, the program promises to provide a comprehensive toolkit for transitioning to civilian careers. This recognition follows a $250,000 grant awarded earlier this year by the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs. Together, these grants will support the Victory Centers mission to serve over 53,000 veterans across a 15-county region. The center offers mental health counseling, case management, and social services, taking a holistic approach to address the needs of veterans and their families. President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. emphasized the universitys unwavering dedication to the military community. Our veterans are the backbone of our freedom, the guardians of our democracy, he said. Yet their challenges often persist long after their service ends. The Victory Center exists to ensure they and their families receive the care, resources, and recognition they deserve. Following the ribbon cutting, attendees toured the facility, guided by Lead Counselor Dr. Janekia Mitchell. She detailed the centers holistic approach, which combines mental health services, family support, and crisis intervention training. This is more than a building, Mitchell explained. Its a lifeline for veterans and their families to flourish. With the Victory Center now open, Jax State is poised to make a transformative impact on veterans and their families across its 15-county service area, reaffirming its role as a Military Friendly University. The Heritage Foundation strategy named after the biblical Jewish queen offers insights into the persecution those who oppose Zionism and white-supremacy will likely face in Trumps America. ( Al Jazeera English ) Donald Trumps re-election as president of the United States marks a shift in US policy from the Joe Biden administrations hypocritical denial of American complicity in Zionist genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity to an unapologetic endorsement of all these actions. Besides bringing Washingtons support for all of Israels excesses, crimes and violations out into the open, Trumps return to the White House will also intensify and make even more overt the persecution of those who dare resist white supremacy and its Zionist incarnation. Under Biden, those who opposed American-funded and -facilitated Zionist genocide, from university students and civil servants to racial justice activists and authors, already faced threats from politicians, police harassment, baseless accusations of anti-Semitism in the media and relentless intimidation from employers, university administrators and far-right-linked Zionist self-defence groups. And yet, Trump says Biden has been weak in countering Hamas radicals and he would do even more to shut down anticolonial resistance as president. On the campaign trail, he called for the deportation of foreign nationals who support Palestinian resistance and, since being elected, has nominated pro-Israel hawks to key intelligence and security posts in his government, signalling he intends to keep his promises on cracking down on anti-Zionist activists. For example, Trump named Kristi Noem, the South Dakota governor who once introduced a bill cracking down on criticism of Israel on the grounds of ensuring the security of Gods chosen people, as his secretary of homeland security. Another indication that Trumps second term will be marked by a new crackdown on anticolonial and antiracist resistance came in the form of a strategy to combat anti-Semitism titled Project Esther, drafted by the prominent Trump-aligned conservative think tank, the Heritage Foundation. The Heritage Foundation has been open about its intention to transform Project Esther into government policy under a second Trump administration. It states within the strategy document itself which was published on October 7 to mark the first anniversary of the Hamas attacks on Israel that it hopes Project Esther would present an opportunity for public-private partnership when a willing administration occupies the White House. Created by the same minds that brought us the authoritarian, Christian nationalist Project 2025, Project Esther syncretises the story of Queen Esther, the Jewish heroine celebrated during Purim for saving Jews of ancient Persia from extermination at the hands of Vizier Haman, with modern day Zionist narratives of defence and victimhood to depict her as a defender of Jews against activists, academics and progressive members of Congress in the US who oppose racism, apartheid and genocide. The strategy paper, supposedly designed to be a blueprint to counter anti-Semitism in the United States, includes several fundamental aspects of fascistic thought and practice as outlined by Umberto Eco, such as syncretic culture, xenophobia, a cult of heroism and anti-intellectualism. Targeted individuals including numerous Black, Brown and Jewish elected representatives who voiced any criticism of Israel, including Senators Bernie Sanders and Chuck Schumer are collectively mischaracterised as members of Hamas Support Organisations (HSO), part of a Hamas Support Network and equated with Purims villain, Haman. Through this framing, the campaign targets prominent social justice advocates and progressive Democratic Party representatives as enemies of the Jewish people, using the mythology of Queen Esther to justify their persecution and repression. Project Esther shamelessly states its aims to eliminate anticolonial perspectives from the US education system, limit the dissemination of related information and restrict advocates access to American society, the economy and Congress. It seeks to prosecute alleged legal and criminal violations by HSO members, disrupt their communications, restrict demonstrations and rally the Jewish community, allies and the American public against anticolonial resistance movements. Crushing Resistance, Digital, Dream / Dreamland v3, 2024. With fearmongering rhetoric draped in patriotism and American values and the latest Zionist spin on rebranding offensive aggression as defence, Project Esther institutionalises repression of dissent within a fallacious, fascistic theoretical framework, casting itself as the final bulwark against an imaginary threat of foreign influence and valiant protector of citizens from brown-skinned heathen hordes who have supposedly promised to infect white American open society with an anticapitalist agenda. Typically, Project Esther ideologues see themselves as heroes, courageously waging a holy war, much to the tune of the Ku Klux Klans infamous portrayal in Birth of a Nation. Calling on the silent majority to break its silence and speak to recover its voice and convert its words into actions to render impotent an illegitimate, hateful minority that threatens Americas soul by, among other accusations, corrupting our education system, Project Esther weaponises xenophobic trends bolstered by the incoming Trump administration to threaten and fracture anticolonial movements that conscientiously oppose Zionism and white supremacy alike. Under the guise of combating hate and appealing to a supposedly terrorised and humiliated underclass, Project Esther seeks to frame antiracist opposition to Zionist apartheid and genocide as inherently anti-Semitic. However, this exposes Zionism itself as white supremacy and a modern embodiment of anti-Semitic ideology, much like Haman in the myth of Queen Esther, actively targeting Jewish organisations such as Jewish Voice for Peace and the Reformed Jewish movement. Project Esther criticises what it sees as complacency within the American Jewish community, invoking the Zionist-manufactured anti-Semitic ideal of a new Jew who rejects traditional beliefs that interpret oppression and hardship as divine punishment for sins. This vision disparages traditional reliance on defence as passive and weak, promoting instead an assertive, offensive approach to resistance. In line with this view, Zionists adopt the anti-Semitic notion that Jews have been responsible for their own suffering, advocating for segregation and land acquisition in a new homeland as the ultimate solution. Notably, fearmongering has long been used by Zionists to encourage Jewish, preferably white, immigration to Israel as a means to restock the Israeli military and combat the Palestinian demographic threat. By amplifying the partnership between US white supremacy and Zionist expansionism, Project Esther presents a serious threat to anticolonial and justice-oriented intersectional movements across the country, on the one hand, and minorities, including Jews, on the other. Project Esther promises to continue to speed up the mobilisation of Zionists and right-wing anti-Semites, now emboldened by Trumps victory, to dismantle resistance to their racist policies through financial and academic audits, name and shame campaigns and lawfare. While shielding Zionist policies and aligning with US white supremacy, the document riddled with misinformation about anti-Israel and anti-Zionist Jew-haters attempting to lay siege to our education system, political processes, and government reinforces the incoming Trump administration as well as Zionist vigilante groups like the Jewish Defence League and their natural allies, American neo-Nazis, to stifle free speech and dissent. Ultimately, campaigns like Project Esther manipulate Jewish historical trauma to promote white supremacy and suppress anticolonial, antiracist movements while gaslighting the public to accept Palestinian solidarity, even when expressed by Jews, as anti-Semitic. This alignment not only stifles dissent to right-wing agendas, it also perpetuates a fascist narrative that promotes violence against those who resist oppression, casting them as an existential threat. This Zionist-white supremacist partnership poses a direct challenge to justice movements, and humanity as a whole, using fear, propaganda and violence to undermine efforts for genuine solidarity and liberation. The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras or Informed Comments editorial stance. By Dennis Altman, La Trobe University | In May 2023, renowned Black American writer Ta-Nehisi Coates spent ten days in the West Bank and Israel, where he spent half his time with Breaking the Silence, a group of former Israeli soldiers who now oppose the occupation. Going to Palestine was a huge shock to me, he told the New York Times. Coming back, he felt, as he told US journalist Peter Beinart, a responsibility to yell about what hed seen which he describes as apartheid and compares to the segregated Jim Crow South in the United States. As he was writing his new book, The Message, the October 7 Hamas attacks happened, followed by the ongoing war in Gaza. He doesnt cover these events in the book, though he has talked about them in interviews, including one in which he described the decision not to allow a Palestinian state legislator to speak at the Democratic National Convention that nominated Kamala Harris as deeply inhumane. Review: The Message Ta-Nehisi Coates. Penguin Random House. Click here to Buy. Coates is among the most celebrated and accomplished writers in the US. He is also, importantly, a Black writer in a world still dominated by white Americans. He first grabbed attention with a 2014 essay on America and slavery in The Atlantic, titled The Case for Reparation. Subsequently, he has written five books, including a novel, The Water Dancer, set on a Virginia slave plantation. He was even hired to write a Superman movie. Coates has deliberately cast himself as part of the legacy of Black American writing, most notably through lyrical language that echoes the writer and civil rights activist James Baldwin. After reading his memoir about the experience of being Black in America, Between The World and Me, fellow writer Toni Morrison said she regarded him as Baldwins heir. Slavery, censorship and culture wars The Message is a series of three essays directed at Coates writing students at Howard University. In it, he chronicles three very different journeys. The final essay, about his trip to IsraelPalestine, takes up almost half the book. His first trip is to Senegal, in search of the origins of Afro-American slavery. In the second, he visits a small town in South Carolina where there have been attempts to ban Between The World and Me from being taught in schools. Not surprisingly, all three sections are haunted by his awareness of racism and colonialism. His name, Ta-Nehisi, is a deliberate reference to the ancient Egyptian term for the kingdom of Nubia, sometimes translated as land of the Blacks. Coates recognises that Western defence of slavery depended on defining the African as subhuman, just as Western colonialism justified itself with an ideology of racism. In Senegal, he visits the island of Goree, for four centuries the largest slave trading port on the African coast, now a world heritage site. But like other African-American writers who have gone to Africa in search of their roots, he recognises that he is an outsider: We have a right to our imagined traditions, to our imagined places, and those traditions and places are most powerful when we confess that they are imagined. These thoughts echo again when Coates struggles to come to terms with Israel, where both Palestinians and Israelis hold deeply felt emotional connections to the land, which makes compromise difficult. In Chapin, South Carolina, teacher Mary Wood faced calls for her firing for teaching Between the World and Me, and pushed back against an attempt to ban her teaching it. The Message is frustrating in its lack of detail about the case, but Woods battle with the local school board has been widely reported as part of ongoing conflict within the US over censorship of books dealing with racial and sexual injustice. Coates is too focused on the fate of his own book to stand back and analyse the bigger conflict it represents. Americas culture wars, which are echoed in Australia, are essentially battles over how to define a national identity or, as Coates writes, to privilege the apprehension of national dogmas over the questioning of them. Our attack on black armband history (as named by Geoffrey Blainey in 1993) is paralleled by right-wing American denials of the centrality of slavery to the creation of the US, and debates over critical race theory. Coates: Israel is not a democracy Coates account of his trip to Palestine has been the most controversial aspect of his book. Significantly, he begins this section with an account of his visit to the World Holocaust Remembrance Center. His sense of the horrors recorded there makes his account of Israeli occupation and dispossession of Palestinians more poignant. Reflecting on the memorial, Coates writes: Every time I visit a space of memory dedicated to this particular catastrophe I always come away thinking that it was worse than I thought, worse than I could ever imagine. Aware of the racism that surrounds him as a Black American, Coates can imagine himself as both Palestinian and Israeli. This generosity of imagination does not prevent critical analysis. His accounts of life in the occupied West Bank underline the reality that Israel has imposed a regime that is effectively based on the subordination and dispossession of Palestinians and a deliberate attempt, he writes, to deny any possibility of a genuine two-state solution. The Israeli lobby is outraged by claims Israel has created an apartheid regime: many see the term as motivated by anti-Semitism. This is the implicit message of much of the pro-Israeli lobby, as summed up in the demands that Australian universities adopt a particular definition of anti-Semitism. The strength of Coates analysis is that he minimises neither the reality of anti-Semitism, nor that of Israels domination of Palestinians. Defenders of Israel struggle to accept that once-persecuted people can become the persecutors. Yet, as Coates writes, There was no ultimate victim, that victims and victimizers were ever flowing. In Coates view, Israel is not a democracy. To claim otherwise, he believes, is to deny the reality of Israels effective control of seven million Palestinians living on the West Bank and Gaza, who are now subject to dispossession and destruction in ways that resemble the worst carnage of World War II. It is extraordinary that our politicians who can extol the virtues of multiculturalism remain blind to the realities of Israeli occupation, and indeed to the growing assertion of Jewish supremacy over those Israeli residents, around 25% of whom are not Jewish. Those who claimed Israel as the only democracy in the Middle East were just as likely to claim that America was the oldest democracy in the world, he writes. And both claims relied on excluding whole swaths of the population. Coates comes closest to explaining this paradox in his account of a plaque in Jerusalem that bears the name of a former US ambassador and proclaims the unbreakable bond between the two nations. This bond, it reads, is based on the shared ideals of the Bible, language that reverberates among many evangelical Christians today. For millions of Americans, criticism of Israel becomes criticism of the US itself. The strength of the Israeli lobby in the US is enormous. The Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), which spent over 100 million dollars this year, helped at least 318 American politicians win their seats in the recent US elections. Not surprisingly, Palestinian voices go largely unheard in the US. Coates points to a study that demonstrates over a 50-year period ending in 2019, only 2% of opinion pieces discussing Palestine had Palestinian authors. (The study covered four major mainstream publications, including the New York Times and Washington Post.) Honesty and egocentrism Many reviews of The Message have been critical. Paul Sehgal in The New Yorker described it as a public offering seemingly designed for private ends, an artefact of deep shame and surprising vanity which reads as if it had been conjured to settle its authors soul. I think the book is stronger than Sehgal suggests. The Message is written as a conversation with Coates writing students, and his growing realisation that becoming a good writer would not be enough. He acknowledges his own limits: I had gone to Palestine, like Id gone to Senegal, in pursuit of my own questions and thus had not fully seen the people on their own terms. In fact, though, he did pay attention. The section on Palestine includes conversations with both Palestinians and Israelis, as well as references to the voluminous literature on the conflict. (Unfortunately, he does not include footnotes or a bibliography.) Since the publication of this book, Coates has become an active advocate for Palestinian rights. He recognises he has come late to this debate. Yes, as his own words suggest, there is egocentrism in The Message. But I read it as an honest attempt to think through how a writer can best influence the world when confronted by slaughter and inhumanity. The Message is an unashamedly personal book. At times, it reads as if the author were in analysis, working through the privileges and burdens of being a successful writer and intellectual. At several points, he refers to himself as both a writer and a steward, with an obligation to speak out about injustice to others. He writes of his books as his children, which leave home, travel, have their own relationships, and leave their own impressions. (He hints that of his five children, his favourite is his novel, The Water Dancer.) I only wish the ardent defenders of Israel who occupy our parliament could be persuaded to read Coates book. At least it might persuade them that criticism of Israels refusal to recognise the claims of Palestinians is not equivalent to anti-Semitism. Dennis Altman, Vice Chancellors Fellow and Professorial Fellow, Institute for Human Security and Social Change, La Trobe University This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Sunday, November 17, 2024 President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua all attended the consecration and installation of Bishop Peter Kimani as Embu Bishop. In his first public address in front of both Ruto and the impeached Gachagua, Uhuru used the podium to cleverly lecture them on leadership. He called for peace and urged an end to tribalism in the country We should pray for peace in Kenya. Let us pray for cooperation between Kenyan citizens and leaders. Let us stop tribalism and let us love each other, he urged the crowd. Uhuru reiterated that togetherness in the country should be the main priority and that leaders and citizens should all strive towards the growth of the country. We are all Kenyans. Kenya cannot go forward if theres conflict amongst citizens and when there is no respect for each other. Leaders, respect the citizens, and the citizens will respect you, he urged. Uhuru stated that he has limited his political activity to just watching news on TV and listening to the radio. His comments generated a great wave of laughter from the large crowd present. I do not have much to say. You know these days I do not speak much. I just watch TV and listen to the radio, Uhuru stated as he chuckled. The former Presidents comments come in the wake of a period of political division in the country. This was witnessed in the impeachment of Gachagua and his subsequent replacement with Kithure Kindiki. The aftermath of Gachaguas ouster exposed the deep rift between Ruto and Gachagua. The Kenyan DAILY POST Sunday, November 17, 2024 - A truck driver watched helplessly as looters stole cartons of sodas from his trailer which had overturned along Eastern Bypass Road, causing a massive traffic snarl-up. In a video, the lorry driver sat helplessly atop the overturned lorry. In the clip, tens of individuals, including motorists from vehicles parked nearby, are seen taking cartons of sodas and running away to store them before returning for more. The looters were oblivious to the danger that the fuel that leaked from the trailer tank underbelly posed. The driver of the ill-fated trailer was lucky to walk out of the cabin with minor injuries considering the impact of the mishap. Watch the video. Kenyans Filmed Looting From A Truck That Was Involved In An Accident pic.twitter.com/LEv67ptQCt DAILY POST (@dailypost_ke) November 17, 2024 The Kenyan DAILY POST. Sunday, November 17, 2024 - A close ally of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has warned President William Ruto after he was loudly booed and heckled during an event in Embu on Saturday. President William Ruto was among thousands of Kenyans who gathered at Embu University to witness the ordination of Bishop Peter Kimani as the head of the Catholic Diocese of Embu. During his speech, President William Ruto faced a moment of discomfort as a significant portion of the audience at the church function expressed disapproval of some of his remarks. Reacting to the events, Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi observed that the Mt Kenya voters had lost confidence in the president. According to him, the events in Embu were emblematic of the larger Mt Kenya region. Unfulfilled campaign promises and the recent impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua contribute to the current disdain of the region against Ruto. Central region is either gone completely or completely gone, Amisi wrote on X on Saturday evening. The Kenyan DAILY POST Sunday, November 17, 2024 - Detectives from the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau, in collaboration with the Operations Support Unit, have arrested Brian Andore for submitting a fraudulent kidnapping report concerning his alleged wife - Mercy Awuor. On November 9, 2024, Andore reported at Kitisuru Police Station that Mercy had been kidnapped by unknown assailants who lured her with a job opportunity and were demanding a ransom of Sh150,000 for her release. His report triggered a swift rescue operation by the team of detectives where they nabbed the first suspect in the Gitaru area. Upon interrogation, it was established that his mobile phone number had not been used to demand ransom as it had been alleged. The detectives cast their nets wider and managed to trace Mercy to Oldonyo Orok in Narok South. In there, they found her safe and sound, accompanied by two young girls, at the home of George Odada. As the investigations continued, it became evident that George Odada was, in fact, Mercys husband. The couple has been married for six years and have a five-year-old daughter. Delving deeper into the case, investigators uncovered a tangled web of infidelity. It was revealed that Brian Andore had been having an affair with Mercy, who had traveled to Nairobi in search of employment. However, she decided to end her relationship with Andore to reunite with Odada, which seemingly triggered Andores desperate act of filing a false kidnapping report .With these revelations, the two have been escorted to Nairobi by the detectives for further interrogation, statement-taking, and processing. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Sunday, November 17, 2024 Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua found himself isolated yesterday during the installation of Peter Kimani as the Catholic Bishop of Embu Diocese, as he was notably ignored by all speakers, including President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. While Ruto, Uhuru, and Kindiki were handed the opportunity to address the congregants, Gachagua only received recognition from Nyeri Archbishop Antony Muheria but was never allowed to speak. Despite arriving early at the ceremony, Gachagua chose to sit in the regular section, avoiding a separate tent that had been meant for the Very Important Persons (VIPs) such as the Head of State and other senior government officials. Incidentally, despite arriving at the venue after the former DP's arrival, both the former Head of State and Ruto avoided greetings with Gachagua, depicting the extent of the political enmity between the two. The controversy began when Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire who was the host, invited Kindiki to address the congregation, who then invited Uhuru Kenyatta, then Kindiki came back to the podium to invite President Ruto to finalise the protocol before the podium was handed back to Bishop Peter Ndung'u. During the speeches, Gachagua stayed quiet and only stared as the senior government officials made their remarks. It is yet to be known whether the snub was intentional. After the event, Gachagua, accompanied by his Mt. Kenya political allies, including Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba, left abruptly despite calls from some members of the congregation for him to address them. The Kenyan DAILY POST Sunday, November 17, 2024 - President William Ruto shared a podium with former President Uhuru Kenyatta during yesterday's consecration and installation of Bishop Peter Kimani Ndung'u in Embu County. This comes after Catholic Bishops told Ruto unequivocally to stop lying and fulfill his pledges to Kenyans during campaigns. Ruto used the chance to defend the status of government projects undertaken during Uhuru's term. Addressing the congregation Ruto noted that he was still in the process of implementing the legacy projects left behind by the Uhuru regime. While acknowledging Uhuru as his ally, the Head of State disclosed that the government made seamless progress in implementing the Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) which began way back in 2017 during Kenyatta's leadership. According to Ruto, the government had already purchased adequate books and built more classrooms to accommodate those undertaking the new curriculum. The president further added that the government was also planning to employ more teachers from December this year to boost learning in schools. "I want to inform our former President Uhuru Kenyatta, the work you left for me, I am pushing it forward, and in CBC, we began the new system in 2017, next year we will be progressing to grade 9 and we have bought books and we are building classes and by the end of the year, we will employ about 20,000 teachers," Ruto said. On the Affordable Housing Project, Ruto informed Uhuru that most of the houses built by the government were on the verge of completion including the one in Embu which he noted was 80 per cent done. Ruto went ahead to reveal that his administration commenced the construction of the 160,000 housing units in different parts of the country to provide jobs for unemployed Kenyans. The president further vowed to streamline the health sector which he said posed a challenge for most Kenyans. The Kenyan DAILY POST Sunday, November 17, 2024 - The Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) has criticized former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, accusing him of shedding crocodile tears. This follows Railas remarks on Members of Parliament whom he accused of being greedy and selfish. In a statement, the Eugene Wamalwa-led party wondered why Raila was castigating MPs yet his ODM party had abandoned their work as the opposition. DAP-K accused the ODM leader of donating his party to the government, so there was no justification for him to call out Parliament for being under the executive's influence. "When H.E. Raila Odinga talks about the independence of parliament and the need for them to do oversight on the executive and let devolution thrive, he forgets that he donated the minority leader and his ODM officials to the executive," read the statement in part. Double-dealing is conmanship, he added. According to Raila, the power play between Parliament and the devolved units was hampering service delivery and development in the counties. "The Division of Revenue (Amendment) Bill 2024, has created a standoff pitting the National Assembly and Senate," Raila stated at a press briefing. "This impasse is a power grab and an assault on the constitution that Members of the National Assembly want to execute and is a cruel betrayal of the people and an overhaul of our structure of governance, he added. The Kenyan DAILY POST Sunday, November 17, 2024 - On Sunday, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua attended a church function where he met his look-alike. The unidentified man has an uncanny resemblance with Gachagua, sparking reactions on social media. From his smile to his body structure, the two look like brothers from the same mother. See the trending photo. The Kenyan DAILY POST Sunday, November 17, 2024 - Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has heaped praise on his friend Rev. Peter Kimani, who has been installed as the new bishop of Embu Diocese. Speaking during the installation of Bishop Kimani in Embu yesterday, Uhuru described the new bishop as a responsible leader, humble, soft-spoken, and kind. "I want to assure the people of Embu, you have won yourself a very responsible leader, very humble and soft-spoken, the former president said. While congratulating him, Uhuru expressed his fear of being left lonely as his long-time friend Bishop Kimani has landed the top job as a priest. "My friend, my Lord Bishop, I know they have welcomed you here, but now I have lost a friend. I will remain lonely. I will no longer have a friend to laugh with. Now I will only be looking at him from afar," the former President jokingly said. He revealed that his friendship with Bishop Kimani brewed from a long time ago and now, although the two will remain friends, Uhuru will no longer be free to joke around with him. "Now I fear him, he is now a boss, he can block my prayers from above," Uhuru lamented. Uhuru requested the new bishop to welcome them after he had settled in his new post so that they could join Embu residents to develop the Catholic Church. The Kenyan DAILY POST We Are China Xi calls for tearing down walls impeding flow of trade, investment, technology and services Xinhua) 01:02, November 17, 2024 LIMA, Nov. 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday called for tearing down the walls impeding the flow of trade, investment, technology and services. Xi made the remarks at the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting. (Web editor: Cai Hairuo, Liu Ning) Over 100 armed police officers orchestrated a coordinated raid Saturday on a drug trafficking gang in Tay Ninh Province that borders Cambodia, confiscating nearly 60 kilograms of drugs, along with firearms and ammunition. The operation led to the arrest of Dang Thanh Tuan, 44, identified as the gangs leader, allegedly for illegal drug transportation. Pham Van Tien, 36, along with five other accomplices, was also detained. Dang Thanh Tuan (L) and Pham Van Tien at a police station in Tay Ninh Province, Nov. 16, 2024. Photo by VnExpress/Ha Thuy The police had previously uncovered a major drug trafficking route originating from Cambodia to Vietnam. In response, they collaborated with the Ministry of Public Securitys Investigation Police Department on Drug-related Crimes to form a specialized unit tasked with dismantling the network. Following surveillance, the police officers, divided into five groups, encircled and raided a site on Road number 9 in the Hiep Long neighborhood of Tay Ninhs Hoa Thanh town. They apprehended Tuan and Tien as they were caught unloading drugs from a car. The seizure included military firearms, 11 bullets, and two cars. Authorities continued operations at several other locations following the raid, resulting in the arrest of the five accomplices. Police examine and seize evidence from a drug trafficking operation in Tay Ninh Province on Nov. 16, 2024. Photo by VnExpress/Ha Thuy Investigations revealed that in July, Tuan and Tien connected with an unknown individual in Cambodia through Telegram, who contracted them to transport drugs from the Cambodia-Vietnam border to various locations within Vietnam, paying US$800 per kilogram for shipments ranging from 20 to 40 kilograms. After receiving the drugs, the duo would transport them by car to Tan Chau District in Tay Ninh, where the narcotics were divided into packages ranging from one to five kilograms. These were then distributed by shippers to Ho Chi Minh City and the neighboring provinces of Dong Nai and Binh Duong, among others. During these operations, Tien and Tuan employed several individuals to guard the shipments, arming them with military firearms for protection. The investigation into the case continues to expand. THE heart of Athy thrummed with the spirit of Future Ancestor Athy, an event dedicated to inspiring sustainable living, celebrating local heritage, and engaging the community with the values of the UNESCO-endorsed Earth Charter. Hosted along the banks of the River Barrow, this eco-art and community gathering was held on All Souls Day, 2 November and offered an afternoon of exhibitions, installations, workshops, and performances that invited attendees to reconnect with nature and honour the legacy of Irelands waterways. Ciara O'Keeffe made plates from the clay from the Slieve Blooms that will be broken and returned to the Barrow Future Ancestor Athy sought to immerse the local community in the beauty and significance of the River Barrow, referred to in folklore as Berba, a witness to the lives of past, present, and future generations. By merging Athys heritage with Earth Charter values, the event highlighted the urgent need for sustainable living practices and environmental responsibility, fostering a deep sense of accountability and belonging for the community and its natural surroundings. IF band entertained the crowds on the steps of the library The event was an interactive celebration, combining art, folklore, and environmental education. Attendees were greeted by vibrant installations and exhibitions spread across the scenic riverside. Local youth played a significant role, with the Anchor Youth Club displaying eco-protest banners in the trees, emphasizing the urgent call for climate action. Ger O'Neill, Patricia Berry, Jimmy Byrne, Aoife Breslin, Brian Dooley, Muriel Hendy and Breda Gavagan Handprint prayer flags adorned various installation sites, symbolizing collective community prayers for the Earth. Meanwhile, visitors were captivated by Berbas Reverie, a video installation by artist Deirdre Southey, showcased in the librarys Small Meeting Room. This poignant artwork brought Berbas story to life, allowing viewers to reflect on the spirit of the river and its timeless presence. Charlie and Bernie Bowden Mackey and Clifford Reid The library also hosted Berbas Animal Friends, a photography exhibit by James Lawlor, depicting the wildlife that depends on the rivers health. Adding a touch of whimsy to the natural setting, Clare Hartigans art installation, The Murphigans, was displayed in the trees, sparking curiosity and drawing spectators into an otherworldly, imaginative realm. Griese Youth Theatre performed their original piece, Cry Me a River, in the main performance area, dramatizing the pressing need for environmental protection through song, storytelling, and dance. Cathy Callan, Brid Brophy and Ciara O Keeffe Outside the library, the teenage all-girl rock band I.F. energized the crowd with their performance, highlighting the role of young voices in shaping a sustainable future. Beyond performances and installations, the event offered several hands-on workshops designed to foster creativity and environmental awareness. Berbas Bounty, a botanical ink-making workshop led by Angelina and Rachel Fountain introduced participants to inks made from plants growing along the Barrow. They also led a Wall of Gratitude activity, where participants expressed their thanks to Berba (Goddess of the River Barrow), fostering a spirit of appreciation and mindfulness. Emily Rainsford shows us how to print Another memorable experience was the Soul Boats installation on the river, handmade sustainable water lanterns, with handwritten indigenous poetry by Liam Regan, which were later released onto the Barrows waters. Artist Emily and the Anchor Youth Club hosted live screen-printing stations, printing eco-conscious art on sustainable materials. Displayed throughout the site via QR codes was Berbas Creation Story, narrated by Brid Brophy, Judith OBrien, and Emily Rainsford. Griese Youth Theatre told a magical story of the river The event concluded with a Walk & Talk led by naturalist Cliff Reid and accompanied by ISL interpreter Aoife, who offered an informative journey along the Barrow, deepening participants understanding of the rivers ecosystem and the cultural significance of waterways in Ireland. At the heart of Future Ancestor Athy was the theme of honouring our ancestors while embracing the concept of Future Ancestors a reminder of the legacy each generation leaves behind. In a ceremonial act embodying reciprocity, attendees honoured Berba with a ritual led by artist Ciara OKeeffe. Sculptures of unfired, compostable clay, crafted from earth foraged from the Barrows source, were offered back to Berba as a gesture of renewal and commitment to the land. This ceremony underscored the belief that our actions today shape the experiences of future generations. Jillian, Emily, Erin and Evie Brereton Foley The festival also explored ancient Irish beliefs, particularly the idea of water as a portal to other realms, linking Samhains cultural significance to modern environmental practices. With the rise of climate consciousness, Berbas presence was celebrated as a witness to past actions and a guardian of future intentions, calling on the community to protect the environment. The smashed plates and our anxieties were returned to the river Barrow and hopefully Berba can help us over come them The values expressed during Future Ancestor Athy will be carried forward in a series of Repair Cafes. The first was held in Narraghmore on 16 November, followed by another in Athy on 23 November. These gatherings will encourage sustainable living by teaching repair skills, reducing waste, and fostering a community-oriented approach to sustainability. This project has been funded by Kildare Climate Innovation Fund, with Narraghmore Repair Cafe supported by The Old Hardware and Athy Repair Cafe also supported by Athy Lions Club and Athy GFC. Future Ancestor Athy was a pilot event and it is hoped it will grow in 2025. More information about the Future Ancestor project and upcoming events can be found at bluewayartstudio.ie. Plans to establish a new cabinet committee on water quality represents Fine Gaels absolute commitment to retaining the nitrates derogation, say two of the partys candidates in the upcoming general election. Kilkenny County Councillor Michael Doyle and Tipperary County Councillor Dr Phyll Bugler, are standing at opposite ends of the Carlow/ Kilkenny constituency. An Taoiseach Simon Harris plans for a new committee focused on water quality represents the best possible chance of retaining Irelands nitrates derogation, they agree. The nitrates derogation is an asset on which farmers across Carlow/ Kilkenny depend, Cllr Doyle said. Ireland has a unique grass-based livestock production system with over 92% of our agricultural land under grassland. The loss of the derogation would have significant negative impacts not only for the farmers directly affected in Carlow/ Kilkenny but also the wider agriculture sector and our rural economy. Cllr Bugler added: An Taoiseach Simon Harris has announced plans to establish a new cabinet committee on water quality, to drive improvements directly from the Department of the Taoiseach and steer a national effort to retain the derogation. This will bring representatives from Government departments, Irish Water, local authorities, the EPA and others around the table to ensure no one is passing the buck, and no one is working in a silo. Acknowledging that farmers across the counties of Carlow and Kilkenny are doing their bit to improve water quality, the councillors gave a commitment that Fine Gael in Government will support them in those efforts. EU Regulations The Nitrates Derogation allows farmers to exceed the limit of 170 kg of livestock manure nitrogen per hectare set down in the Nitrates Regulations, up to a maximum of 220 kg or 250 kg per hectare, subject to adherence to stricter rules. The European Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2022/696 granting Irelands current nitrates derogation, required Ireland to undertake a two-year review of water quality in 2023. Certain areas that met the criteria as set down by the EU decision are obliged to move to a reduced derogation limit of 220 kg N/ha from January 2024. For a nitrates derogation application to be valid, all terms and conditions of the derogation must be adhered to. Derogation information, including terms and conditions, is available on the departments website at: www.gov.ie/nitrates. Your Excellency Dina Boluarte, President of the Republic of Peru, APEC Chair, Distinguished APEC economic leaders, Madam Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, Distinguished delegates, Let me extend my heartfelt congratulations to you, Madam President, for your exemplary leadership of APEC 2024 under the theme "Empower. Include. Grow." This summit has been a resounding success, underscoring Peru's visionary and pivotal role within the Forum. I echo the sentiments of the IMF Managing Director, Madam Kristalina Georgieva, regarding the current state of the regional and global economy. While the global economic landscape is fraught with challenges and uncertainties, it is equally illuminated by the presence of significant opportunities. First, geopolitical conflict, trade friction and macro-level instability have reduced global growth prospects. Yet the Asia-Pacific economies have been able to maintain a stable growth trajectory, and remain the engine and driver of global growth. Secondly, despite the rising tide of protectionism, supply chain disruptions, and polarization, there is a strong demand for strengthened international economic cooperation and integration. Third, development and digital gaps, and global environmental issues continue to be our top challenges. Yet the development of transformative technologies and the increasingly profound and comprehensive digitization and green transition are bringing about new and innovative solutions and opportunities for cooperation. 2. In this context, to enhance APEC's role and amplify its contributions, I propose the following lines of action: First, continue to advance trade and investment liberalization, and strengthen the rules-based multilateral trading system. We must cultivate and sustain vibrant economic linkages, facilitating the seamless flow of finance, technology, knowledge, and labor across borders. Establishing robust and resilient supply chains is essential while making decisive strides towards realizing a Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific. Second, expedite cooperation programs and initiatives aimed at inclusive growth and technology. We must position people at the forefront of digital transformation and green transition. It is crucial to tackle the digital divide and prioritize support for vulnerable communities in remote regions, ensuring they not only access but also benefit from digital innovations. This requires substantial investment in green and digital infrastructure, alongside collaborative efforts to disseminate cutting-edge technological applications in addressing global challenges, particularly climate change. Third, continually enhance global institutions and governance. We must advance APEC's structural reform and improve its institutions to create an agile, adaptive, forward-thinking entity capable of spearheading new growth avenues. Expanding technical support and capacity-building projects for developing countries is vital. We should also incentivize the participation of businesses and communities, who are drivers and beneficiaries of APEC's cooperation. In pursuing these goals, Viet Nam is actively collaborating with APEC partners on the APEC Structural Reform Agenda for 2026-2030 to boost its operational effectiveness. Distinguished delegates, 3. Over the past 35 years, APEC has demonstrated its crucial role in the regional cooperation architecture, connecting the world's economic and technological hubs and leading the way in harnessing transformative development trends for the benefit of all our peoples. The documents adopted at this Summit, including proposals from our host country, Peru, serve as a strong testament to the unwavering commitment of APEC economies to concerted action in addressing shared challenges, capitalizing on emerging opportunities, and shaping the trajectory of regional and global cooperation. As an active and responsible member in the international community, Viet Nam will work closely with APEC members to translate the Forum's vision and goals into tangible outcomes. Building upon the achievements of previous APEC years, Viet Nam is preparing for APEC 2027 towards a peaceful, prosperous Asia-Pacific of sustainable, inclusive growth. Thank you very much. By Park Han-sol Despite a short life marred by brawls, arrests and even murder, Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, better known simply as Caravaggio (1571-1610), forever revolutionized the art of painting. His masterful use of intense chiaroscuro, paired with highly dramatic compositions, cast his figures in piercing beams of light against shadowy backdrops. He also chose to paint his subjects, whether sacred or earthly, with raw humanity, complete with flaws and imperfections, instead of as idealized forms favored by his predecessors. In a career that lasted less than two decades before his premature death, the Italian artist managed to inspire a generation of painters across 17th-century Europe and ignited a transformative wave that shaped the Baroque art movement. The Master of Light Caravaggio and His Descendants, on view at the Seoul Arts Centers Hangaram Art Museum, brings together 57 masterpieces 10 attributed to the controversial genius himself and the rest by Caravaggisti, his stylistic followers, and other Baroque-era contemporaries. Among Caravaggios 10 paintings, the largest number ever displayed in Asia, three hail from the collection of Italys prominent Uffizi Gallery. Born in Milan in 1571, Caravaggio began his artistic journey at the age of 13 when he joined the workshop of Simone Peterzano, a former pupil of Titian. It was during this apprenticeship that he replicated Peterzanos numerous commissions for Milanese churches works that would later serve as a wellspring of inspiration for his iconographic models. In Peterzanos altarpiece Presentation of Jesus in the Temple (1588), Venetian coloring and skillful highlights illuminate the subjects, accentuating their contours and lending a lively quality to the composition. Such a stylistic approach influenced young Caravaggio, shaping his eventual shift toward visceral naturalism and a dramatic, lifelike representation of his subjects. In 1592, the painter moved to Rome, facing several years of struggle as he worked to make ends meet. During this time, he specialized in still lifes of fruits and flowers, then considered a lowly genre. Yet, in his hands, these elements came alive with extraordinary precision, their textures and imperfections dramatized by his signature theatrical lighting. Occasionally, Caravaggio paired his still lifes with half-length figures, as seen in Boy Bitten by a Lizard (1595). The painting, which vividly captures the moment a sensual young man recoils in pain after a salamanders surprise attack, may be familiar to audiences who attended last years Eyes on Us: Masterpieces from the National Gallery, London exhibition at the National Museum of Korea. Caravaggio was known to revisit his compositions for some works, producing several versions with slight variations. Boy Bitten by a Lizard exists in three known iterations: the one displayed here and two others housed in the collections of Londons National Gallery and the Fondazione Roberto Longhi in Florence. Their differences are mostly subtle variations in the boys hairstyle and the redness of his cheeks and lips. But in the version featured in The Master of Light, the youths lower right eyelid glistens with tears of pain, an emotive detail absent from the other two, according to the shows curator Ho Jeong-eun. The turning point in the artists career came in 1595 when the influential cardinal Francesco Maria del Monte recognized his gift and became his patron. Through Del Montes extensive network, he began securing commissions from Roman aristocrats and churches. The raw physicality of Caravaggios subjects in emotionally charged settings, amplified by his bold chiaroscuro lighting, soon made him a household name. The hallmarks of his style are witnessed in masterpieces such as The Incredulity of Saint Thomas (1601-02), The Taking of Christ (1602), Saint Sebastian (1606) and The Tooth Puller (1608-10). He painted spontaneously, foregoing preparatory sketches and working directly on the canvas. And to the shock of his critics, he used real-life models often beggars, prostitutes, laborers and even himself to portray holy biblical figures, a choice that brought an unprecedented sense of realism and humanity to his pieces. His stardom, however, was continuously tainted by his notoriously volatile temper. His frequent arrests included bizarre and violent incidents: hurling a plate of artichokes at a waiter, smearing excrement over the door of his landlady, attacking a rival with swords and pelting stones at the police. In 1606, his aggression reached breaking point when he killed a man in a swordfight. Forced to flee Rome, the artist spent the next four years wandering through Naples, Malta and Sicily. Despite his fugitive status, he continued to receive commissions and produce works of remarkable quality. In 1610, ill and desperate for a papal pardon, he set out to return to Rome. But he died under mysterious circumstances en route, at just 38 years old. One of the final paintings gracing the gallery is David with the Head of Goliath (1606), a gripping depiction of the climactic biblical moment when the young shepherd triumphs over the Philistine giant. What makes it striking is its autobiographical undertone; Goliaths severed head bears an uncanny resemblance to Caravaggios own, while David mirrors his younger visage. The young Caravaggio holding the head of his older self it can be read as an introspective self-portrait imbued with remorse, curator Ho noted. By embedding himself in the image, he seems to acknowledge his own sins. While getting a chance to marvel at the works of the Baroque master is a highlight of the exhibition, an equally enriching experience lies in observing how artists across Europe such as Theodoor Rombouts, Pedro Nunez del Valle, Mattia Preti and Luca Giordano drew inspiration from his style. The Master of Light Caravaggio and His Descendants runs through March 27 at the Hangaram Art Museum. BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 17. Climate protection is one of the pressing global issues that cannot be addressed without joint efforts, said Mahmadtair Zokirzoda, Speaker of the Tajikistan House of Representatives, Trend reports. Speaking at a session on "Setting the scene: understanding the real impact of climate change " within COP29 Parliamentary Meeting organized jointly by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and Azerbaijani Parliament, Zokirzoda emphasized that we are witnessing global warming, which poses serious challenges to achieving sustainable development in various countries, including Tajikistan. The UN's decisions on water and climate issues are of great importance, and we believe that the participants of today's high-level Parliamentary Meeting will also contribute to this work. Joint efforts will be made in this regard. We must take urgent practical measures, utilize renewable energy sources, and transition to green energy. Many countries have significant resources for this. The use of renewable energy will positively impact the development of a green economy," he said. Zokirzoda further added that the decisions made at COP29 will help establish mechanisms for cooperation at national, regional, and international levels. To note, the Parliamentary Meeting started its work in Baku within COP29 under the joint organization of the Inter-Parliamentary Union and Azerbaijani Parliament. Sevil Mikayilova, the Vice President of the IPU from Azerbaijan and a member of the Azerbaijani parliament, is taking part in the event. The two-day event will bring together 92 delegations from 66 countries and international organizations, up to 330 participants, 167 Members of Parliament led by 12 Speakers and Deputy Speakers. Sessions at the Parliamentary Meeting will discuss the real impacts of climate change, the parliaments' role in making climate commitments a reality and raising mitigation ambition and implementing nationally determined contributions, unpacking the global climate finance architecture and mobilizing resources and streamlining access to climate finance, enhancing resilience in the face of climate change and scaling up adaptation and strengthening local empowerment. The final document will be adopted. The event will also include several bilateral meetings. By Yoon Ja-young MetLife Korea published its first sustainability report, showcasing its commitment to responsible business practices, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), and support for its communities. The voluntary reporting underscores MetLife Korea's dedication to its stakeholders as it provides transparency in its performance against the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals, which align with the sustainability strategy of MetLife and the local work of MetLife Korea, the insurer noted. MetLife Korea's sustainability initiatives reflect MetLifes purpose of "Always with you, building a more confident future." Since 2016, MetLife has maintained carbon neutrality, demonstrating its leadership in environmental stewardship. MetLife also promotes philanthropy and volunteerism globally, with MetLife Foundation's donations surpassing $1 billion and MetLife employee volunteers across 38 markets, including Korea, logging over 144,000 volunteer hours globally in 2023. MetLife Korea contributes to MetLife's global sustainability goals by implementing sustainable investment strategies, reducing paper usage and engaging in environmental restoration projects such as the reforestation of areas damaged by the Hongcheon wildfire in Gangwon Province, the School Forest Challenge, and the MetLife Extraordinary Litter Pickup initiative. Additionally, MetLife Korea supports employee well-being through initiatives such as the Health Keeper Program and operates a DEI Lab to foster an inclusive workplace culture. All of us at MetLife Korea are so proud of our activities, MetLife Korea CEO Song Young-rok said. With each one, we reaffirm our company's commitment to expanding sustainable practices to benefit customers and local communities, with our purpose as our guide, he added, emphasizing the importance of the sustainability report. US policy, currency woes drive investors away By Lee Yeon-woo Foreign holdings in the benchmark KOSPI hit a yearly low amid concerns over a potential U.S. policy shift and a volatile won-dollar exchange rate, market watchers said. As of Friday, foreign investors' holdings in the KOSPI market totaled 637.4 trillion won ($456.6 billion), marking the lowest level this year, according to the Korea Exchange. In November, they continued their selling streak, net selling 1.8 trillion won. The only exceptions were brief net purchases on Nov. 4 and Nov. 7. Foreign investors now hold 31.4 percent of the KOSPI's total market capitalization. Foreign investors' market share, which stood at 32.7 percent early this year, rose to 36 percent in July. However, it steadily declined to 33 percent in September and to 32 percent in October. "The broader Asian market experienced a plunge due to the 'Trump shock.' Investor sentiment has contracted amid concerns over escalating G2 conflicts," DS Investment & Securities analyst Woo Ji-yeon said. "In particular, the Korean market, already grappling with weak domestic demand, saw a significant outflow of foreign capital." A potential shift in U.S. trade policy is raising concerns about Korea's key economic driver, exports. Meanwhile, foreign investors have focused their selling spree on Samsung Electronics, with net sales totaling 2.7 trillion won. Amid reports that the U.S. presidential transition team is considering eliminating incentives under the CHIPS and Science Act, foreign investors have reduced their stakes in Samsung Electronics to 51.72 percent as of Thursday, the lowest level in 19 months. This led to a drop in Samsung's share price to 49,900 won on Thursday, its lowest point since the COVID-19 pandemic. Samsung SDI was the second most-sold stock, with net sales of 338 billion won, followed by Hyundai Motor at 246 billion won and Hana Financial Group at 73 billion won. However, these amounts were substantially lower than the net sales of Samsung Electronics. The soaring won-dollar exchange rate also dampened investor sentiment. The exchange rate, which stood at 1,370 won per U..S. dollar before Trump's election win, has risen steadily amid fluctuations, reaching 1,411.1 won during Thursday's trade, prompting verbal intervention by Korean foreign exchange authorities. Despite the ongoing downturn, the brokerage industry anticipates a rebound in the KOSPI if market anxiety subsides. Analysts argue that the current decline is excessively steep relative to the market's intrinsic value. "A technical rebound is anticipated as uncertainties surrounding Trump's policies, corporate earnings, and supply-demand instability peak and begin to subside. The trajectory of the KOSPI is expected to depend on the recovery potential of sectors that have experienced steep short-term declines, including semiconductors, Samsung Electronics, secondary batteries, as well as growth stocks such as internet, pharmaceutical and biotech," Daishin Securities analyst Lee Kyoung-min said. The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un said Sunday that South Korea will have to pay a "dear price" for sending propaganda leaflets across the border the previous day. Kim Yo-jong, vice department director of the central committee of the North's ruling Workers' Party, said "various kinds of political agitation leaflets and dirty things" were dropped by the South near the border and further inland. "We strongly denounce the shameful and dirty acts of the ROK scum who committed the provocation of scattering anti-DPRK political and conspiratorial agitation things once again in disregard of our repeated warnings," she said in a statement carried by the North's Korean Central News Agency, referring to South and North Korea by their formal names, the Republic of Korea and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. "There will be no house owner who hardly gets enraged at such dirty rubbish scattered in the clean yard, which even a mutt dislikes to touch," she said. North Korea has reacted angrily to South Korean activists sending balloons across the border carrying anti-Pyongyang propaganda leaflets and South Korean consumer goods. Kim said North Korea's security forces have blocked off the areas where the leaflets were found and are carrying out disposal work. "There is a limit to patience," she said. "The DPRK people's anger at the most disgusting curs has reached the extremes. The scum will have to pay a dear price." (Yonhap) A consultative body involving the ruling People Power Party (PPP), the government and doctors' groups held their second round of talks Sunday but failed to narrow their differences as they seek to resolve a prolonged walkout by trainee doctors. Thousands of trainee doctors have left their workplaces in a mass resignation since February to protest the government's decision to sharply raise the medical school quota, causing major disruptions to the national health care service. In a press briefing after the meeting held at the National Assembly, PPP spokesperson Han Zeea said the medical community and the government remained at an impasse over the admission quotas for both next year and 2026 at the meeting. The medical community has demanded that the government revise the hike in the medical school quota from scratch, but the government has refused to adjust the 2025 quota and instead said it would revisit the quota hike plan for 2026 and beyond. The consultative body was launched last week without participation from opposition parties. From the medical community, one group of medical school deans and another group representing medical researchers joined the body. However, the group for junior doctors and the Korea Medical Association, South Korea's largest group of doctors, have boycotted the initiative. (Yonhap) South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed "strong" concerns over military cooperation between North Korea and Russia and decided to continue "shuttle diplomacy" during their talks in Peru on Saturday, Yoon's office said. Yoon and Ishiba held their second in-person summit in a month on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation in Lima, amid rising concerns over North Korea's troop deployment to Russia in support of Moscow's protracted war in Ukraine. "The leaders expressed strong concerns over military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, including the deployment of North Korean troops to Russia," Yoon's office said in a release. "They agreed to work closely together to ensure that the international community continues to send a unified message regarding North Korea," it added. During the 50-minute talks, Yoon and Ishiba agreed to elevate the bilateral relationship next year as the two nations mark the 60th anniversary of the normalization of their diplomatic relations. "Toward this end, they decided to continue shuttle diplomacy without being constrained by its format," the office said. At the summit, Yoon underscored the importance of close coordination and cooperation to counter security challenges. "As military cooperation between Russia and North Korea has led to the North's troop deployment, regional and global situations have been rapidly changing since our first meeting," Yoon said in his opening remarks. "Today's meeting is more meaningful at a time when close coordination between South Korea and Japan is now more crucial than ever before," he added. Ishiba echoed Yoon's view, stressing the need for closer collaboration between the two nations. "Continuing to strengthen cooperation between Japan and South Korea is an important task considering the grave security situation surrounding both countries, including recent (developments) about North Korea," Ishiba said through a translator. Their meeting came a day after a trilateral summit with U.S. President Joe Biden, during which the leaders condemned military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang and reiterated their commitment to trilateral collaboration. Bilateral ties have significantly improved since Yoon decided in March last year to resolve the long-running row over Japan's wartime mobilization of Koreans for forced labor by compensating victims without asking Japanese firms for contributions. Yoon and former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida had since restored the long-suspended shuttle diplomacy of visiting each other whenever necessary. Yoon and Kishida held 12 summits over the last two years in a sign of deepening relations. (Yonhap) President Yoon Suk Yeol met with Vietnam's new President Luong Cuong to discuss economic cooperation between the two countries and other issues of mutual concern, Yoon's office said Saturday. The bilateral summit, held on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Lima, marked Yoon's first meeting with Cuong, who took office last month. Yoon emphasized the importance of "mutually beneficial" cooperation in key areas, including infrastructure development and supply chains for key minerals, the office said. Cuong described the bilateral ties as "very special and important," expressing hope for continued high-level communication to further strengthen the relations, it noted. Vietnam is Korea's third-largest trading partner after the United States and China. (Yonhap) President Yoon Suk Yeol on Saturday pledged Korea's commitment to leading efforts to expand use of carbon-free energy and foster inclusive growth among members of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). Yoon made the pledge during the APEC Informal Leaders' Retreat in Lima to address pressing issues, such as climate change and regional economic disparities. " Korea will cooperate with APEC members to achieve their carbon neutrality goals in an economically viable manner through the Carbon-Free Energy Initiative," Yoon said, according to a summary provided by his office. Yoon detailed plans to lead technological collaboration and develop international standards for the hydrogen economy while highlighting Korea's initiatives in advancing small modular reactors (SMRs) and establishing nuclear supply chains to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy. SMRs are ready-to-install modular reactors that are smaller in size and power output compared with traditional nuclear reactors, allowing for more flexible and scalable deployment. He also proposed creating an "APEC Future Prosperity Fund" to foster entrepreneurship, enhance economic opportunities for youth and encourage regional exchanges. As the incoming chair, Yoon asked for APEC members' support for Korea's hosting of next year's summit in Gyeongju, located about 270 kilometers southeast of Seoul. (Yonhap) President Yoon Suk Yeol and his Peruvian counterpart, Dina Boluarte, agreed to strengthen cooperation in the defense industry and the mineral sector during their summit in Peru on Saturday. The talks, held on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, came as Seoul has been seeking to expand cooperation with Peru, an increasingly crucial partner for South Korea given its rich mineral resources and growing potential for deeper bilateral defense industrial collaboration. Yoon and Boluarte watched a video showcasing progress in bilateral defense cooperation and signed nameplates to be attached to three naval vessels being constructed by South Korean companies at a Peruvian shipyard. On the sidelines of the summit, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Peru's state-owned shipyard SIMA for joint development of submarines. It follows Hyundai's $463 million contract for naval vessels for the Peruvian Navy. Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Peru's state-run aviation agency SEMAN also signed an MOU for joint production of KF-21 fighter jet components, while Hyundai Rotem and Peru's Army Weapons and Ammunition Factory (FAME) signed a comprehensive cooperation agreement to enhance collaboration on Army ground equipment. In a joint statement, the leaders hailed the defense partnership as a "milestone in advancing the comprehensive strategic relationship" and emphasized its potential to bolster Peru's defense industry. Yoon expressed hope that such defense industry cooperation would serve as a "catalyst" for expanding Korea's defense technology cooperation across Latin America. "The agreements demonstrate that bilateral defense collaboration has evolved beyond simple procurement to a stage of mutual growth through co-development and co-production," Yoon said. The leaders also agreed to deepen economic ties, particularly in critical minerals and infrastructure. They signed an MOU on critical minerals to facilitate information exchange, joint geological surveys, and technological cooperation, leveraging Peru's rich deposits of copper, silver, selenium, and zinc. On the infrastructure, the leaders pledged to work together to successfully complete the construction of the Chinchero Airport, which will serve as a gateway to Machu Picchu, and to encourage Korean companies' participation in Peru's infrastructure projects. During the summit, the leaders condemned North Korea's nuclear and missile activities and called for its "complete, verifiable, and irreversible denuclearization," while expressing concern over human rights conditions in the country, according to the joint statement. Boluarte endorsed Yoon's vision for a peaceful and unified Korean Peninsula and agreed to work with South Korea to promote peace and stability in the region, it said. It marked the first visit by a South Korean president to the country in nine years and Yoon's first trip to South America since taking office in May 2022. (Yonhap) Unification Minister Kim Yung-ho said Sunday that any talks between North Korea and the United States will be difficult without South Korea's involvement. Kim made the remark during an interview with broadcaster KBS, acknowledging there are concerns South Korea could be overlooked in the event North Korea and the U.S. pursue a resumption of dialogue. "It will be difficult for North Korea to go to Washington without going through Seoul," the minister said. "That's how firmly we are making the cooperation regime between South Korea and the U.S." Kim also called for establishing in advance detailed guidelines on the North Korean nuclear issue with the incoming U.S. administration. He said South Korea is unchanged in its position that North Korea must be completely denuclearized and any dialogue between the U.S. and North Korea must be closely coordinated in advance between Seoul and Washington. "Even if President-elect Trump places importance on personal diplomacy during his second term, he won't be able to not consider the positions of friendly nations," Kim said. "In order to pursue U.S.-North Korea talks at a time when North Korea has sent troops to the war against Ukraine, he will have to take into account the positions of NATO or the Republic of Korea," he added, referring to South Korea by its formal name. (Yonhap) By Kim Hyun-bin The Embassy of Colombia in Seoul and ProColombia celebrated the grand opening of the Colombian Pavilion at the Seoul Cafe Show 2024, held from Nov. 6 to 9 at COEX in Seoul. This event attracted producers, importers, distributors and coffee enthusiasts from around the world. The opening ceremony featured notable attendees, including Alejandro Pelaez, ambassador of Colombia to Korea, and representatives from 11 Colombian coffee companies. The Pavilion showcases the richness and diversity of Colombian coffee, a product known globally for its quality and authenticity. "Participating in the Seoul Cafe Show is a fantastic opportunity for our producers to showcase the quality of our coffee and establish valuable connections in the Korean market," Shirley Vega, director of ProColombia in Seoul, said. "We want to emphasize that Colombian coffee is not only a high-quality product but also an integral part of our culture and tradition." Colombian coffee, celebrated for its pronounced and full-bodied aroma, continues to enjoy high demand in the global market. In 2023, Colombia's coffee export value reached $2.792 billion, including $10.3 million in coffee and derivatives exports to Korea. Colombia ranks third among the top five coffee-producing and exporting countries worldwide, behind Brazil and Vietnam. At the Seoul Cafe Show, Colombian representatives offered a wide range of products tailored to meet the growing demands of the Korean market. These include green coffee, roasted coffee, instant coffee and innovative carbonated beverages made from coffee husks. The event has provided Colombian companies with a valuable platform for cupping sessions, networking and B2B meetings with potential buyers. The Colombian Booth conducted over 80 meetings, which is expected to help strengthen the presence of Colombian coffee in Korea. BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 17. Jeyhun Bayramov, Azerbaijans Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with Anne Beathe Tvinnereim, Minister for International Development of Norway, who is here to participate in the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), Trend reports, citing the ministry. The meeting discussed prospects for cooperation between Azerbaijan and Norway, country's COP29 Presidency, as well as the regional situation. Sharing details on Azerbaijan`s COP29 Presidency and the negotiation process, Minister Jeyhun Bayramov highlighted the importance of COP29 in terms of discussing the issues on the agenda. He noted that consensus has been reached on Article 6.4 of the Paris Agreement and on raising annual climate finance commitments by multilateral financial institutions from $75 billion to $170 billion. Minister Jeyhun Bayramov briefed Anne Beathe Tvinnereim on the past Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict and the current regional situation, as well as Azerbaijan`s peace efforts. The meeting also highlighted mine threats existing in the region. President to kick off G20 schedules in Brazil from Monday By Anna J. Park President Yoon Suk Yeol highlighted South Korea's commitment to leading global cooperation on artificial intelligence regulation, food security and a clean energy transition as the chair country for next year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit. As Yoon received the ceremonial "varayok" a traditional Peruvian staff symbolizing authority and leadership from Peru, this year's APEC chair, during the handover ceremony following the APEC retreat session on Saturday (local time), South Korea formally assumed the role of the next APEC chair. Next year's APEC summit will be held in Korea's southern city of Gyeongju in South Gyeongsang Province, renowned for its historic and cultural heritage. It will be the first time in 20 years that South Korea will be hosting the annual global event. After taking over the chairmanship, Yoon introduced the next APEC summit's theme, jointly building a sustainable future, particularly emphasizing the need for countries' collaborative efforts in achieving a clean energy transition and food security. Yoon also commended Peru for its effective leadership this year, which successfully guided member economies in adopting key roadmaps to achieve inclusive economic growth. "This year's chair, Peru, has provided a clear direction for APEC to advance toward sustainable growth and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region. Building on Peru's achievements, Korea will host the 2025 APEC Summit in Gyeongju, a city with a history spanning over two millennia," the president said during the APEC meeting in Lima, Peru. "At next year's APEC Summit in Gyeongju, Korea will present a blueprint for a future where the Asia-Pacific region is more closely connected, more innovative, and more prosperous," Yoon added, urging the leaders of member countries to show support and commitment. Specifically, the Korean president stressed the importance of securing a stable supply chain, considering the high economic interdependence within the APEC member economies. He mentioned that the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework Supply Chain Crisis Response Network, which Korea has been chairing since this year, serves as an innovative global collaboration platform, adding that he hopes it will be actively utilized in APEC discussions on stabilizing supply chains across the Asia-Pacific region as well. "Additionally, new norms and frameworks are essential in the digital age. While the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement, where Korea began to participate this year, will provide an excellent platform for enhancing digital connectivity, I also propose the establishment of an APEC AI standard forum. This initiative aims to develop common standards and certification systems for AI technologies, ensuring their innovative potential is fully realized while safeguarding their safety and reliability," Yoon said. The South Korean president also underscored the need to jointly address the challenges of climate change and clean energy to ensure shared prosperity among APEC members. "Coinciding with next year's APEC summit, Korea plans to host the Carbon-Free Energy Summit, bringing together governments, international organizations, and companies from both energy demand and supply sectors. Building on the discussions held in Peru this year, Korea will explore ways to achieve carbon neutrality through the use of clean energy sources, including hydrogen, nuclear power and renewable energy," Yoon noted. Following Korea's leadership of APEC in 2025, China will host the annual event as a chair country in 2026, while Vietnam and Singapore will each host the event in 2027 and 2030, respectively. On the sidelines of the APEC summit, leaders of South Korea, the United States and Japan met for about 40 minutes in Lima on Friday, once again reaffirming their trilateral security partnership. During the meeting, Yoon, U.S. President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba strongly condemned North Korea's deployment of troops to Russia and its involvement in the conflict. "We strongly condemn violations of multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions by the DPRK and Russia, especially in light of the DPRK's decision to deploy troops to Russia for combat against Ukraine," the three countries said in a joint statement after the trilateral meeting. "Deepening military cooperation between the DPRK and Russia, including munitions and ballistic missile transfers, is particularly egregious given Russia's status as a Permanent Member of the U.N. Security Council. We remain resolute as ever in supporting Ukraine as it exercises its inherent right to self-defense as enshrined in Article 51 of the U.N. Charter," they added. The three countries' leaders also agreed to establish the Trilateral Secretariat, seeking to ensure the cooperative framework to "further aligns our objectives and actions to make the Indo-Pacific a thriving, connected, resilient, stable, and secure region." The new secretariat will rotate its leadership every two years, with South Korea, the U.S. and Japan taking turns. The secretariat will soon be established within Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and will operate under Korea's leadership for the first two years. The following day, Yoon and Ishiba met for a bilateral meeting, agreeing to strengthen Korea-Japan cooperation further and continue meetings between the two. The two neighbors are to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Korea-Japan diplomatic normalization next year. This was Yoon and Ishiba's second summit following their meeting in October. Yoon also held a bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at a hotel in Lima on Friday. Yoon exchanged greetings with Xi about a year ago during last year's APEC summit in San Francisco, but it was their first bilateral summit talks in two years since the Group of 20 Summit in Indonesia in November 2022. During the meeting, the two countries agreed on their shared goal of alleviating conflicts and contributing to regional peace and prosperity. They also reaffirmed their common stance of maintaining mutual efforts to develop bilateral ties further. Regarding North Korea, Yoon raised concerns about the North's ongoing intercontinental ballistic missile tests, military provocations and military cooperation with Russia, calling on China to play a constructive role in addressing these actions that contribute to regional instability. Xi, in turn, expressed China's desire for regional stability, stating that China does not wish for tensions on the Korean Peninsula. He emphasized that the issue should be resolved peacefully through dialogue and negotiation, with the involved parties seeking a political solution. In addition, during this APEC summit, Yoon held summits with Vietnamese President Luong Cuong, Brunei's Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, as well as his sixth meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Meanwhile, Yoon marked his first visit to Peru on Saturday. It was the first state visit to the country by a South Korean president since 2015 and Yoon's first state visit to a Latin American country since taking office in 2022. Based on their firm relationship, which celebrated its 60th anniversary last year, South Korea and Peru agreed to deepen their cooperation in defense, mineral trade, investment and infrastructure by signing multiple memorandums of understanding. By Kim Hyun-bin The EU Business Hub is set to host the inaugural Digital Solutions Korea 2024 exhibition, an event aimed at connecting European small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups with Korean companies. The exhibition will take place over three days Dec. 3, 5 and 6 in Seoul. This event will feature selected European SMEs and startups renowned for their technological capabilities and track records in international business cooperation. They will showcase a range of innovative digital solutions, leveraging advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, cybersecurity, digital health, extended reality, the internet of things, online media platforms, robotics, semiconductors, telecommunications and various other software solutions. Over the course of the three days, the EU Business Hub will facilitate business-to-business matchmaking. European companies will engage in business talks with interested Korean firms, offering opportunities for one-on-one meetings to explore diverse business prospects, including technology partnerships, licensing, and joint research and development. To ensure smooth communication, interpretation services will be available throughout the exhibition. In addition to the exhibition, a business networking reception hosted by the EU Delegation to the Republic of Korea will take place on Dec. 3 at the exhibition venue. This reception will provide a more informal setting for attendees to enhance their networking connections with European SMEs and startups. The EU Business Hub-Korea program will participate in Softwave 2024, taking place from December 4 to 6 at COEX in Seoul. The program aims to raise its profile and promote its business mission. On Dec. 4, participating EU SMEs and startups will visit Softwave 2024, offering one-on-one, on-site matchmaking opportunities with exhibitors. "Korea's ICT industry, which accounts for 30-40 percent of total exports, is experiencing strong growth driven by the rapid spread of cloud services and supported by semiconductors exports. Having earned a reputation as a global ICT powerhouse, Korea is steadily investing in innovative technologies such as advanced semiconductors, next-generation networks, AI, big data, quantum computing, and cybersecurity. Many companies may seek global partnerships," Tanith Bello, program officer at the EU Delegation to the Republic of Korea, said. "I hope that Digital Solutions Korea 2024 serves as a valuable platform for relevant Korean businesses and organizations to connect with European SMEs and startups showcasing their cutting-edge digital solutions and technologies, allowing them to seize opportunities for business partnerships." By Jon Dunbar "At the dawn of the 22nd century, after generations of harm, Earth struck back against her abusers. Rising seas swallowed entire coastal cities and ushered in an endless onslaught of storms." This is the introduction to "Prologue I: This is a Mutiny," a graphic novel included with the ska-punk supergroup Mutiny's debut mini-album released last year. Their upcoming mini-album, now up for pre-order on Ska Punk International, follows up the story with a zine set in the same universe, featuring a couple of Korean musicians well-known in the country's underground punk and hardcore scene. Mutiny features musicians coming from well-known U.S. bands, including Voodoo Glow Skulls, Death By Stereo, Dissidente, Adolescents and Manic Hispanic. "Eventually I think we want to just be one giant sentient skacore blob created from all of the misfit punk/hardcore/ska/skacore bands from all around the world," Eric Fazzini, the band's sax player, told The Korea Times. "That's the most exciting part for me the fact that everything we do seems to add another member or members to our little universe to expand on and just grow the entire project/band." Mutiny's musical narrative occupies a futuristic dystopia that, as of 2024, doesn't sound all that implausible. "The world our songs are about has two major factions: the elite who left Earth when faced with impending planetary disaster, and those who were left behind," said Chris Ruckus, vocalist/guitarist of Mutiny. "The majority of the people who stayed on Earth work as indentured servants for the elite that left them behind, in exchange for safety from the mega-storms, scavengers and cannibal cults on Earth. The resistance group helping to free those indentured servants uses the cover as an in-universe band called Mutiny to gather intel and weaponry to fight the oppressors." Ruckus, also a member of the political punk band Dissidente, explained how Mutiny's fictional universe came into being, after immersing himself in the news to write political punk songs. "Honestly, I was getting so depressed writing about children getting shot at school and endless wars waged for profit," he said. "I thought if we had our own fictional story, we could write about all of the same topics, but not be reduced to tears when singing. Because, unlike real life, we get to control this narrative. And that means the good guys can win in the end." The latest installment in the Mutiny saga is pending release, hopefully in time for Mutiny's upcoming Seoul tour. "Everything is in the hands of printers and pressing plants, so it's up to them now," Ruckus said. Titled Avant Guardian Vol. 1," it will come in the form of a "mini-zine" set within the story, featuring album reviews and ads from the universe, along with a flyer for a concert that has yet to happen. Ruckus says it will "explain how two children of the elite who have lived their entire lives off-Earth, come to find that they have been lied to and that life does still exist on Earth. This becomes the catalyst for the entire rest of the narrative." The details aren't fully revealed yet, but it appears these two elite children could be Christmas Kwon of the Korean punk band 18Fevers, and Lee Hee-yeon from local hardcore band Turn For Our or they could just as easily be the zombies. The two sing vocals on a Korean-language version of Mutiny's latest single, "O Salutaris." "Christmas and Heeyeon absolutely crushed their version of the songs," Fazzini said. "One of my favorite things about our band is being able to ask other very talented artists to be a part of it and being able to listen to our music as fans. When other artists come in that have immense talent and do such an amazing job, it allows us/me to be able to experience our music from a fan's perspective. That's my absolute favorite thing about everything that we do is creating a unique version that gives not only fans options and puts eyes on other bands but that we get to be related to others with a similar goal and just expose people to new bands in the process." The song is written from the perspective of a cannibal cult that formed on Earth after the elites' exodus. Trapped in a mine collapse, the cannibals succumb to their own paranoia, justifying killing and eating their own for self-preservation. "Had they worked together to escape, they could have fought back against the mining company that mandated unsafe working conditions," Ruckus said. "But as is too often human nature, the immediacy of paranoia begets violence, and they turned on the very same workers who were sent to rescue them." He explained that the song is about class solidarity and human nature. "How often we see people hurt their peers in the same position as themselves, rather than those in power who would pit the lower class against each other," he said. The guest vocals by Christmas and Hee-yeon, as well as the upcoming three-day Korea tour, came about in 2023, before the fictional disaster. After the interview but right before deadline, Mutiny released a second Korean-language version of one of their songs, this time "Monarch." Fazzini, a former (or off-and-on) member of Voodoo Glow Skulls, was at Rebellion Festival in Blackpool, U.K., when he bumped into Mathew Nolan of Korean punk band 18Fevers, playing on the same day. "I'm not sure how we struck up a conversation, but we sort of became instant buddies," Fazzini said. Plans fell through last year to bring Voodoo Glow Skulls to Korea during their Japan tour. They stayed in touch, and he sent Nolan some of the Mutiny stuff and asked half-jokingly, "Korea later this year?" "Then it became more like a 'well why not? Let's do it!' and he just took the ball and ran with it," Fazzini said. Mutiny will play three shows in Seoul, starting with Channel1969 on Friday, then Club Victim on Saturday and Club SHARP on Sunday. For the first two shows, they'll be with the Japanese bands Quikdead and Oweak. Korean openers over the three days include Sunn-Row & Deathood, Monkey Gang War, Ska Wakers, Cockrasher and God of Universe, with more likely announced soon. "In the internet age, it's easy to see how small the world is," Ruckus said. "We watch in real time tragedies happening 10 thousand miles away while scrolling our phones on our lunch breaks. Pain is universal. But we don't often get to share that same joy of creation because of language barriers. In Mutiny, with every release, we make it a point to work with incredible musicians from all over the world to make our world smaller in a positive way. Yes, pain is universal, but so is music. So are stories." Follow @thebandmutiny on Instagram for more information. By Lee Hae-rin The prolonged vacancy in the top post at the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family is disrupting its operations, with increasing calls for a new appointment to prevent a further waste of the organization's personnel and budget resources. The minister's position has remained vacant since February, following the resignation of former Minister Kim Hyun-sook. Currently, Vice Minister Shin Young-sook is serving as the acting minister. The vacancy has not been filled quickly because President Yoon Suk Yeol has pledged to abolish the ministry. However, the abolition has not yet occurred, as it requires revisions to relevant laws in the National Assembly, where opposition parties, who control the Assembly, are opposed to the plan. According to data submitted by the ministry to Rep. Baek Seung-a of the liberal Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) on Sunday, four employees who had worked in the ministers office remained there after her departure. However, they were later reassigned to other departments, except for one worker. One worker was dispatched to another department one month after Kim's resignation, another worker after two months, and the third one after seven months. The fourth worker, who used to be in charge of the minister's vehicle, is still in the position. The ministry is still holding onto the vehicle, a Hyundai Genesis G80, incurring a monthly rental cost of nearly 2 million won ($1,432) for the nine months the ministers position has remained vacant. The prolonged absence of the head of the ministry has disrupted the ministrys unique work in youth support and response to sex crimes, but also wasted the budget, Baek said. President Yoon Suk Yeol should appoint a minister as soon as possible to normalize the ministry, she said. The vacancy of the position became a point of controversy during last months parliamentary audit. DPK Rep. Kim Han-kyu said, It is an unprecedented situation to conduct a parliamentary audit without a minister ... We do not leave even a head of a village vacant for this long. Another DPK lawmaker Kim Nam-hee also highlighted the ministrys responsibility to tackle deepfake crimes. Lawmakers from the ruling conservative People Power Party (PPP) also called for a swift appointment. We also agree that it is not desirable for the ministry to have an inspection while the minister (post) is vacant this year, said Rep. Cho Eun-hee from PPP. The vacancy of the position has also garnered attention from international women's rights organizations. In June, the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) urged the Korean government to appoint a minister for the gender ministry. The committee is concerned that this (abolition of the ministry) could lead to the fragmentation and de-prioritization of legal and policy frameworks dedicated to the advancement of women, it said. The committee is further concerned by the failure to appoint a minister for gender equality and family, the drastic reduction in the budget of the ministry, and retrogressive policies on women ... Additionally, the committee is concerned about the limited participation of womens organizations in the design and implementation of national plans and strategies for the advancement of women. The ministry confirmed at a recent regular briefing that there is nothing currently prepared regarding the appointment of a minister. By Lee Hae-rin Seoul will provide multilingual real estate counseling for foreign residents to protect them from fraud involving "jeonse" or lump-sum deposit leases, the city government announced, Sunday. According to the Seoul Metropolitan Government, counseling sessions will be held at the Seoul Foreign Residents Support Center in Daelim-dong, Yeongdeungpo District, every Monday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., starting Nov. 18. English-speaking real estate agents will consult directly; interpretation will also be provided in seven languages -- English, Chinese, Vietnamese, Mongolian, Russian, Uzbek, and Urdu. Non-Korean residents who wish to consult with real estate agents can visit the Seoul Foreign Residents Support Center, call (2229-4900), or apply via email at help@sfrc.seoul.kr. A multilingual counselor will provide the initial consultation. For more information, visit the Seoul Foreigner Portal at global.seoul.go.kr. The city government plans to consider expanding the service to weekends after evaluating demand and gathering feedback from non-Korean residents. Seoul operates 293 global real estate offices in downtown areas, including 219 offering services in English, 50 in Japanese, 17 in Chinese, and 7 in other languages such as Spanish and Russian. The global real estate brokerage project was launched in 2008 during the tenure of Mayor Oh Se-hoon, aimed at supporting the settlement of foreign residents in the capital. As of November, 54 districts in Yongsan, 32 in Gangnam, and 31 in Seocho provide multilingual real estate services. In 2014, the Seoul Foreign Residents Support Center was established to offer free services to non-Korean residents in Seoul. These services include multilingual counseling, Korean language education, community activity support, and programs to help with early adaptation and social integration. Since 2018, lawyers and certified labor attorneys have been providing professional counseling on legal and labor matters to assist foreign residents settle in the capital. "Getting a house and signing a contract is the most basic element of living in Seoul," said Lee Hae-sun, Seoul's global city policy officer. "The city will continue to expand support in various fields so that foreigners can conduct real estate transactions more safely and conveniently to establish a stable settlement as well as continue their comfortable daily lives." DPK calls ruling 'suppression of opposition' By Jung Min-ho The main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) is intensifying its anti-government campaigns following a court ruling on Friday that found its leader, Rep. Lee Jae-myung, guilty of election law violations. The party condemned the verdict as an attempt to "suppress the opposition." The guilty verdict seems to have strengthened the opposition's demands for an investigation into allegations of election meddling and other accusations involving President Yoon Suk Yeol and first lady Kim Keon Hee. In response, the ruling People Power Party (PPP) has ramped up its criticism of the DPK's actions, focusing on Lee's legal troubles and accusing the opposition party of undermining the rule of law. A day after being convicted of election law violations, Lee joined protesters at an anti-government rally, defiantly declaring, "I will never die." Tens of thousands of people gathered in central Seoul, Saturday, to show support for Lee Jae-myung, who was sentenced to a suspended prison term for making false claims during a parliamentary audit and a media interview in 2021 while campaigning for president. If the verdict stands, Lee faces the possibility of being stripped of his National Assembly seat and barred from running in elections for up to 10 years, which could effectively end his political career. Speaking from a podium set up for the protest, Lee Jae-myung directed his criticism at the president and his administration. He vowed not to yield to any legal pressure and urged the crowd to "stand up resolutely" against the president. "The country belongs to the people. All the powers of the country should be used for the people," Lee said, saying it seems the country now belongs to the president, the first lady and a political broker implicated in the election meddling scandal. Urging the protesters to fight against the abuse of power, Lee said, "I, Lee Jae-myung, will never die. Democracy will never die. The future of this country will never die." However, Lee refrained from directly criticizing the judiciary. He currently faces three additional trials concerning corruption and other criminal charges. Other DPK leaders were more outspoken in their criticism of the judges, with floor leader Park Chan-dae condemning the ruling as a "crazy decision." It was a crazy ruling under a crazy administration. It was a politically-motivated ruling made only to collaborate with the prosecution aiming to remove (Yoons) political opponents, he said. Not far from the protests, tens of thousands of conservatives gathered for their own rally, calling for the imprisonment of the opposition leader. Waving Korean flags and chanting slogans like "lock him up," they demanded Lee's immediate arrest. The political discord seen in the streets is expected to intensify in the coming week, as the DPK leader is set to appear before a panel of judges at the Seoul Central District Court on Nov. 25 for a verdict on additional charges. He is accused of pressuring a Seongnam city government employee to provide false testimony in his favor during a court case in 2018. Among all the charges Lee faces, the case involving the accusation of coercing a government employee to lie under oath is considered to be the most challenging. In September 2023, a judge said that evidence "appeared to confirm" the criminal charge, even though an arrest warrant against Lee was denied. Han Dong-hoon, leader of the ruling PPP and former minister of justice, expressed his belief that a guilty verdict is almost certain. When the arrest warrant was dismissed on Sept. 27 of last year, it was recognized that the charge of subornation of perjury was admissible. So many people believe that a guilty ruling would be inevitable, Han said in a social media post, adding that Lee could be put in jail on the day of the ruling. He also warned that threatening the court by holding such a massive rally could make the situation worse for Lee as judges would see that as an attempt to obstruct justice. PPP spokesman Park Sang-su also said, "What the DPK should do now is not engage in false agitation on the streets to distract the public, but instead adopt an attitude of humility and wait for the court's decision." However, the DPK vowed not to succumb to any pressure or demands. Power comes from the people. The Democratic Party of Korea will fight to the end with the people against the Yoon administrations attempt to end Lees political life, Rep. Kang Yu-jung, the DPKs floor spokeswoman, said in a statement, Sunday. Speaking to reporters, Rep. Kim Yun-duk, the partys secretary general, also claimed that the guilty verdict on Lees election law violation stemmed from what he called a lack of understanding by the judges and dismissed speculation about the partys potential leadership change. By Chun In-bum President Yoon Suk Yeol's approval rating has dropped to an all-time low of between 17 and 27 percent, with disapproval rates exceeding 65 percent. A key reason for this decline is the public perception that Yoon and his administration failed to communicate effectively with the people, compounded by persistent political attacks from the opposition. These domestic challenges stand in stark contrast to the view held by U.S. officials and many Americans with firsthand experience in Korea-U.S. relations. From their perspective, Yoon's foreign policy is seen as a resounding success, and they view the relationship between the two countries as the strongest in its 75-year history. While there are concerns that Korea may be alienating itself from key markets like China, economic ties between Korea and the U.S. remain robust. The U.S. security commitment to Korea is stronger than ever, bolstered by initiatives like the Nuclear Consultative Group, which continues to enhance mutual understanding and reassurance. Yoon's foreign policy has also extended to bold initiatives with Japan. In a single stroke, Yoon has set aside long-standing grievances and made unilateral overtures to improve relations, as evidenced by his visit to Japan in March 2023, which opened new channels for political interaction between the two nations. However, Yoon's initiatives toward Japan have sparked significant controversy, particularly from his political rivals. These rivals have historically focused on leveraging public resentment against Japan to consolidate their support base. By ignoring previous agreements and weaponizing the legal system to focus on the letter of the law, they have created the impression that Korea is not a trustworthy partner in international affairs. Yoon's boldest move standing firm against allegations regarding the release of treated water from Fukushima further inflamed these tensions. While these moves have been pivotal in strengthening foreign relations, they have contributed to Yoon's declining popularity domestically. The concern now, particularly among U.S. and Japanese officials, is that a shift in Korean leadership back to the political left could lead to a dramatic reversal of the progress made in international relations, much as it shifted to the right under Yoon. Some officials have resigned themselves to this possibility, viewing the current state of affairs as a moment to "make the best while we can." However, there are steps that can be taken to reinforce these ties and help secure the benefits of Yoon's foreign policy initiatives for the future. One such step would be for the U.S. to consider the broader implications of its trade policies on key allies like Korea. For example, applying tariffs on Korean imports without considering the second- and third-order effects on these valuable allies could undermine the economic and security cooperation that benefits all parties involved. These economic decisions must take into account the critical role Korea plays in U.S. security, particularly in industries like technology and semiconductors. Another crucial step lies with Japanese leadership. Prime Minister Tomiichi Murayama's 1995 statement, in which he expressed deep remorse for Japan's colonial rule and wartime aggression, remains a powerful symbol of reconciliation. If current Japanese leaders were to reiterate this apology to the Korean people, it could significantly ease tensions and foster long-term cooperation. Such a gesture, while politically risky in Japan, would demonstrate true leadership by looking beyond immediate popularity and focusing on the benefits to future generations. Similarly, Japanese leaders could build goodwill by refraining from visiting the Yasukuni Shrine, an act that would resonate positively with the Korean public. Yoon's leadership, particularly in its approach to foreign policy, is an example of the difficult but necessary decisions that long-term national interests require. His administration is advancing Korea's strategic alignment with both the U.S. and Japan, even at the cost of domestic popularity. But true leadership requires a vision that extends beyond the present. By fostering stronger trilateral relations between Korea, the U.S. and Japan, Yoon is laying the groundwork for a more stable and prosperous Northeast Asia. For these reasons, it is critical that the U.S., Japan and Korea continue to build on the progress made during Yoon's administration. By addressing economic concerns, reaffirming mutual apologies and reinforcing security commitments, these nations can secure lasting peace and economic growth for future generations. Chun In-bum (truechun@naver.com) served as a lieutenant general in the ROK Army and was commander of Special Forces Korea. Improvements in memory chip competitiveness required for uptrend By Nam Hyun-woo Samsung Electronics' announcement on Friday that it will buy back 10 trillion won ($7.17 billion) worth of its shares over the next year to prevent further declines in its falling stock price is expected to lead to a short-term increase in share value. However, it remains uncertain whether this will result in a signal for the company's long-term rebound or end up being a stopgap measure. According to the plan, which was announced after Friday's trading session was closed, Samsung Electronics will repurchase and cancel 3 trillion won of shares 50.14 million common shares and 6.91 million preferred shares from Monday to Feb. 17. The company's board will then decide when and how to buy back shares worth 7 trillion won after reviewing the best timing for "improving shareholder values." The 10 trillion won program accounts for approximately 10 percent of the company's cash and cash equivalents worth 103.78 trillion won. The decision to allocate such a substantial portion of assets to share buybacks rather than R&D investments or acquisitions appears to stem from the need to address its sharply declining stock price. Samsung Electronics ended at 49,900 won on Thursday, falling below the 50,000 won mark for the first time in over four years. Considering that Samsung's stock was trading at around 88,000 won in August this year, its value has nearly halved over the past four months. It bounced back to 53,500 won on Friday, up 7.31 percent from a day earlier, but this was largely viewed as a "dead cat bounce," a short-lived recovery following a prolonged decline, driven largely by foreign investors buying. Industry officials anticipate that the buyback program will likely be helpful in bringing a short-term recovery given the past precedents. Samsung Electronics announced share buyback and cancellation plans worth 11.4 trillion won in 2015 and 9.3 trillion won in 2017. Between the initial announcement in late October 2015 and the completion of the program in late November 2018, the company's stock price surged by 52.5 percent. "The announcement reflects an intent to provide short-term support for the stock amid a sense of crisis," IBK Securities analyst Jeong Yong-taek told The Korea Economic Daily. "While it may not lead to immediate changes in fundamentals, it could help improve investor sentiment." As Jeong said, the buyback program may be a short-term boost but does not necessarily imply that Samsung stock will show a stable uptrend in a long-term, because the company is yet to reveal its action plans or clear messages to address market doubts surrounding its fundamental competitiveness. Samsung Electronics' stock price began to show a sharper decline as the company announced its third-quarter earnings last month. Despite posting an operating profit, the earnings showed that the company is falling behind its rival SK hynix in high-bandwidth memory (HBM), an advanced DRAM chip that powers AI processors, while its foundry business is posting losses. "The most urgent priority for Samsung's recovery appears to be restoring the core competitiveness of its DRAM business," Kiwoom Securities analyst Park Yu-ak said. "Samsung allowed its rivals to first develop advanced DRAM process nodes, which has significantly delayed the mass production of applied products like HBM3e. Therefore, Samsung has to concentrate its efforts in developing the next-generation HBM4 to regain both its technological competitiveness and the trust of market participants." Conglomerate officials also note what could be important for Samsung's rebound is soothing market's worrisome sentiment through strong messages. "Despite the recent price fall, Samsung's third-quarter operating profit is not as bad as its stock price it actually achieved a quarterly high in sales," an official said. "This means that the company is unsuccessful in suggesting strong future visions to the market as it used to do and failing to convince investors. I believe that is the role of the company's leadership." Hanjin considers following footsteps of Coupang, CJ By Park Jae-hyuk Logistics firms are facing intensifying disputes with delivery workers over the provision of parcel delivery services on Sundays and national holidays. Despite concerns from delivery workers about overwork, an increasing number of companies are planning to offer seven-day-a-week delivery services to attract consumers seeking faster delivery. On Wednesday, unionized delivery workers at CJ Logistics urged the company to scrap its plan to start delivering parcels every day starting in 2025. In an apparent attempt to curb the rapid growth of Coupang, which has delivered goods seven days a week since 2015, CJ Logistics announced the plan in August, promising that its delivery workers would work five days a week in shifts. However, its delivery workers pointed out that the new shift system will force each one of a four-member team to cover for his/her three other off-duty colleagues on Sundays and Mondays. The management has refused to answer the unions question about its plan to hire additional workers, said the leader of CJ Logistics unionized delivery workers. CJ Logistics is set to hold the fifth round of negotiations with the union on Nov. 19. If they fail to reach an agreement, the delivery workers will hold a rally in front of the companys headquarters in Seoul, Nov. 24, about a month after they held a rally at the same place for the same reason on Oct. 21. On Tuesday, unionized delivery workers at Lotte Global Logistics, Hanjin Logistics and Logen asked the companies to participate in negotiations with them and make it clear whether the companies will also provide parcel delivery services seven days a week. Read More CJ, Shinsegae form logistics partnership to fight Coupang A day later, Hanjin Logistics CEO Noh Sam-sug told reporters that the company is also considering delivering goods on Sundays. Our main focus is our customers, so we will also provide parcel delivery services seven days a week if they want, he said during a press conference on smart technologies for the companys warehouses. However, sellers will need to work on weekends. Delivery workers, who have worked six days a week may also face decreasing incomes, if they work five days a week. 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' offers comfort to those who need it BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 17. The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs extended its congratulations to Azerbaijan on the occasion of November 17 - National Revival Day, Trend reports. The ministry shared in a post on its official X page. "We warmly congratulate Azerbaijan on National Revival Day, which marked a turning point in the nation's struggle for independence initiated 36 years ago. We also celebrate the victory of our Azerbaijani brothers, who, with the same spirit and determination, have put an end to the occupation of their lands," the publication reads. National Revival Day is celebrated in Azerbaijan to commemorate the national liberation movement that began in Baku during November-December of 1988. 2025 APEC CEO Summit to take place under theme of Bridge, Business, Beyond By Park Jae-hyuk Around 1,000 business leaders at the 2024 APEC CEO Summit in Lima, Peru, gave a thumbs-up gesture on Friday (local time) to show their commitment to participating in next years event, which will be held in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, according to the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Sunday. The KCCI said that they made the gesture as its chairman, who took over the chairmanship of the APEC CEO Summit, introduced the theme of next years event: Bridge, Business, Beyond. These words start with B, B, B, but does the acronym BBB ring a bell? Probably not right now, KCCI and SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won said after Perus Intercorp CEO Fernando Zavala handed over his gavel. When you write it in lowercase bbb it looks like three thumbs-up! Not only one thumbs-up, not double, but a triple thumbs-up. So remember triple thumbs-up. Thats our theme. Chey noted that the private sector will bridge diverse societies while businesses play critical roles in this journey, leading humanity beyond the challenges of today. 'Bridge, Business, Beyond' should be much more than just thumbs-up. They must be practical tools that bring together the 21 APEC economies to identify and drive our innovation priorities, the KCCI chairman said. He vowed to make the event a valuable platform where businesspeople exchange ideas, address common challenges and align on technology and sustainability goals. Together, we should set the stage for mutual growth and maximize each of our strengths and knowledge. We will make progress through technological innovation, sustainability and inclusive growth, Chey said. This years APEC CEO Summit held under the theme of People, Business, Prosperity also enabled global business leaders to discuss various topics ranging from climate change to artificial intelligence, digital health care and financial inclusion. President Yoon Suk Yeol and Peruvian President Dina Boluarte attended the ceremony for the handover of the APEC CEO Summit chairmanship, along with Chey and members of the APEC Business Advisory Council, including HS Hyosung Vice Chairman Cho Hyun-sang, Kolon Vice Chairman Lee Kyu-ho and Megazone Cloud CEO Lee Joo-wan. U.S. President Joe Biden called Saturday for China to use its clout to prevent an escalation of Russia's war in Ukraine through the dispatch of more North Korean troops, while raising concerns over the possibility of Pyongyang engaging in provocations, a senior U.S. official said Saturday. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan elaborated on the discussions that Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping had during their talks on the margins of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Lima, amid mounting concerns about broad security implications of a military alignment between Moscow and Pyongyang. "(Biden) also pointed out (to Xi) that the PRC does have influence and capacity and should use it to try to prevent a further escalation or further expansion of the conflict through the introduction of even more DPRK forces," Sullivan told reporters in a press briefing. PRC and DPRK stand for the official names of China and North Korea, the People's Republic of China and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, respectively. Biden also stressed the North's troop deployment was a "deeply dangerous" development, Sullivan said. "President Biden really underscored his view that this is a deeply dangerous development both in Europe and on the Korean Peninsula, with deepening cooperation between Russia and the DPRK likely to enhance the possibility of provocative behavior by the DPRK," Sullivan said. "Provocative behavior that we have warned about, whether it comes in the form of direct provocations against the ROK, or whether it comes in the form of something like further missile tests or even a seventh nuclear test, which is something that we remain constantly vigilant about." ROK stands for South Korea's official name, the Republic of Korea. Seoul and Washington have said that North Korean troops, dispatched to Russia's western front-line Kursk region, have begun engaging in combat operations against Ukrainian forces despite criticism that their introduction onto the battlefield could broaden the war and affect security in Europe and the Indo-Pacific. The troops' entry into combat came after Moscow and Pyongyang signed a "comprehensive strategic partnership" treaty in June, which calls for one party to provide military aid to the other in the event of an armed invasion a pledge that amounts to a revival of the two countries' Cold War-era military alliance. At the start of the summit, Biden renewed calls to keep Sino-U.S. rivalry from veering into conflict, with the Chinese president stressing his opposition to "decoupling" between the world's two largest economies. The summit came amid expectations that President-elect Donald Trump could take a hard-line stance on trade with China and other China-related issues once he takes office in January. "How we're getting along together can impact the rest of the world, and our two countries cannot let any of this competition veer into conflict," Biden said according to a pool report from the White House press corps. "That's our responsibility, and over the last four years I think we've proven it's possible to have this relationship," he added. Xi underscored his "consistent" belief that a stable relationship between the U.S. and China is "critical" not only to the interests of the Chinese and American peoples but also to the "future and destiny of the entire humanity." But he cautioned against "decoupling" between the two major powers. "In an age of a new round of flourishing sci-tech revolution and industrial transformation, neither decoupling nor supply-chain disruption is the solution. Only mutually beneficial cooperation can lead to common development," Xi was quoted by Beijing's foreign ministry as saying. His remarks came amid concerns that trade friction between Washington and Beijing could further escalate if Trump makes good on his campaign pledge to impose a 60 percent tariff on Chinese goods. Xi also said that "small yard, high fences" is not what a major country should pursue, referring to the Biden administration's approach that keeps tight restrictions on select key technologies while ensuring the normal flow of trade in other sectors. "Only openness and sharing can advance the well-being of humanity," Xi said. "As two major countries, China and the United States should bear in mind the interests of the whole world, and inject more certainty and positive energy into the turbulent world." The summit was expected to discuss North Korea's troop deployment to support Russia's war in Ukraine and its provocative activities as Washington has wanted China to play a constructive role in addressing a range of issues concerning the recalcitrant regime. Saturday's meeting was the third in-person summit between Biden and Xi since Biden took office in January 2021. The presidents previously met on the margins of the Group of 20 summit in Bali in 2022 and on the margins of the APEC summit in California a year ago. (Yonhap) The Russian opposition, forced into exile and weakened by internal conflicts, will organize its first major demonstration against Moscow's Ukraine invasion in Berlin on Sunday, testing its political credibility in the third year of the war. The Kremlin has in recent years eradicated any political competition at home and waged a massive crackdown on dissent, with hundreds possibly thousands of Russians in prison for their political views. With Vladimir Putin in power for almost 25 years, all of his political opponents are now dead, in prison or in exile. The Russian opposition lost its main figurehead in February, when Putin's rival Alexei Navalny died in an Arctic prison in mysterious circumstances. Yulia Navalnaya, his widow who took the helm of the movement, is one of the main organizers of the march. Unable to operate at home, the opposition is forced to relaunch abroad, where hundreds of thousands of Russians fled in the aftermath of the February 2022 invasion. Berlin home to thousands of anti-Putin Russians and Ukrainian refugees was chosen as the prime location for the march. The protest is due to kick off at 1 p.m. (local time) in the German capital's center and will end outside the Russian embassy. Navalnaya is joining forces with two other oppositionists for the rally: former Moscow city councillor and longtime anti-Putin campaigner Ilya Yashin and Vladimir Kara-Murza, who survived two poisoning attempts. Both Yashin and Kara-Murza were freed from prison -- where they served sentences for denouncing the Ukraine invasion after a prisoner swap with the West this summer. "The march aims to unite everyone who stands against Vladimir Putin's aggressive war in Ukraine and political repressions in Russia," the organizers said in a statement. The opposition says it has three main demands: the "immediate withdrawal" of troops from Ukraine, the trial of Putin as a "war criminal" and the liberation of all political prisoners in Russia. Reconciliation test The event is also seen as a check for the movement, weakened by years of repression and suffering a huge blow with the death of Navalny. The charismatic politician was the only figure in Russia who was able in recent years to mobilize thousands of people to take to the streets against Putin. But Moscow's Ukraine invasion has ushered in a new era of repression comparable with Soviet levels. Thousands protested after Putin announced the shock invasion. At Navalny's funeral last March two years into a massive crackdown on dissent thousands also came to pay their respects. Since his death, various factions of the movement have been tearing each other apart in bitter conflicts. Navalny's team has accused the camp led by ex-oligarch Mikhail Khodorkovsky of ordering a hammer attack on one of its members. Another faction accused Navalny's anti-corruption fund of covering up the machinations of a shady banker. The simmering conflicts have frustrated supporters, losing hope in the third year of the war. 'Consolidate forces' Even through messages from prison, Navalny galvanized supporters and without him the movement has struggled to regain momentum in fighting the regime. Showcasing these struggles, Navalnaya admitted in an interview ahead of the march that the opposition currently had "no plan" on how to end Putin's regime or stop the war in Ukraine. But with the rally, the trio of oppositionists hope to display unity and mobilize the thousands of Russian exiles who fled to Europe, including to evade military conscription. "It is important to show we can work together to consolidate various forces in the anti-war movement," Kara-Murza said in an interview to exiled media Dozhd earlier this month. Despite this, Ukraine's ambassador to Germany Oleksiy Makeev criticized the event as a "walk without dignity and without consequences", adding that it illustrated the opposition's "weakness." Writing in the Zeit newspaper, Makeev argued that the three opposition figures were not doing enough to support Kyiv and call on their fellow citizens to protest in Russia. Likewise, Vitsche, the association of Ukrainian exiles in Germany, said that the event "failed to deliver a clear message" of support. The Ukraine war is a source of embarrassment for the Russian opposition, which is reluctant to show too much support for Kyiv for fear of alienating Russians and destroying any hope of a future political career in a post-Putin Russia. The Kremlin, which has painted oppositionists as traitors, has dismissed the march as insignificant. Its spokesman Dmitry Peskov called the march organizers "monstrously detached from their country" and said "their opinion has no importance." (AFP) Saudi Arabia has executed more than 100 foreigners this year, according to an AFP tally indicating a sharp increase which one rights group said was unprecedented. The latest execution, on Saturday in the southwestern region of Najran, was of a Yemeni national convicted of smuggling drugs into the Gulf kingdom, the official Saudi Press Agency reported. That brought to 101 the number of foreigners executed so far in 2024, according to the tally which is compiled from state media reports. This is almost triple the figures for 2023 and 2022, when Saudi authorities had put to death 34 foreigners each year, according to AFP tallies. The Berlin-based European-Saudi Organization for Human Rights (ESOHR) said this year's executions had already broken a record. "This is the largest number of executions of foreigners in one year. Saudi Arabia has never executed 100 foreigners in a year," said Taha al-Hajji, the group's legal director. Saudi Arabia has faced persistent criticism over its use of the death penalty, which human rights groups have condemned as excessive and out of step with efforts to soften its forbidding image and welcome international tourists and investors. The oil-rich kingdom executed the third highest number of prisoners in the world after China and Iran in 2023, according to Amnesty International. In September, AFP reported that Saudi Arabia had carried out its highest number of executions in more than three decades, surpassing its previous highs of 196 in 2022 and 192 in 1995. Executions have continued at a rapid clip since then and totaled 274 for the year as of Sunday, according to AFP's tally. 'Most vulnerable' Foreigners executed this year have included 21 from Pakistan, 20 from Yemen, 14 from Syria, 10 from Nigeria, nine from Egypt, eight from Jordan and seven from Ethiopia. There were also three each from Sudan, India and Afghanistan, and one each from Sri Lanka, Eritrea and the Philippines. Saudi Arabia in 2022 ended a three-year moratorium on the execution of drug offenders, and executions for drug-related crimes have boosted this year's numbers. There have been 92 such executions so far this year, 69 of them of foreigners, according to the AFP tally. Diplomats and activists say that foreign defendants usually face a higher barrier to fair trials, including the right to access court documents. Foreigners "are the most vulnerable group," said Hajji of the ESOHR. Not only are they often "victims of major drug dealers" but also "subjected to a series of violations from the moment of their arrest until their execution," he said. Saudi Arabia is notorious for beheading those convicted of capital crimes, although official statements tend not to mention the method of execution. The persistently high number of executions undercuts statements by Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who told The Atlantic in 2022 that the kingdom had eliminated the death penalty with the exception of murder cases or when an individual posed a threat to many lives. (AFP) The main spokesman for Lebanon's Hezbollah militant group was killed in the first Israeli airstrike on central Beirut in more than a month on Sunday, an official with the militant group told The Associated Press. Israeli strikes in the Gaza Strip had earlier killed 12 people, Palestinian medical officials said. The Hezbollah official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief the media, said Mohammed Afif was killed in the strike in central Beirut. Afif had been especially visible after Israels military escalation in September and following the assassination of longtime Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah , who was also killed in an Israeli airstrike. Israeli warplanes had earlier pounded the southern suburbs of Beirut after the military warned people to evacuate from several buildings. The Hezbollah militant group has a strong presence in the area, known as the Dahiyeh, and the strikes came as Lebanese officials are considering a U.S.-brokered cease-fire proposal . Also on Sunday, Israeli police said they arrested three suspects after flares were fired at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus private residence in the coastal city of Caesarea. Netanyahu and his family were not at the residence when two flares were fired at it overnight, and there were no injuries, authorities said. A drone launched by Hezbollah struck the residence last month , also when Netanyahu and his family were away. The police did not provide details about the suspects behind the flares, but officials pointed to domestic political critics of Netanyahu. Israel's largely ceremonial president, Isaac Herzog, condemned the incident and warned against an escalation of the violence in the public sphere. Netanyahu has faced months of mass protests over his handling of the hostage crisis unleashed by Hamas' Oct. 7, 2023 attack into Israel, which ignited the ongoing war in Gaza. Critics blame Netanyahu for the security and intelligence failures that allowed the attack to happen and for not reaching a deal with Hamas to release scores of hostages still held inside Gaza. Israelis rallied again in the city of Tel Aviv on Saturday night to demand a cease-fire deal to return them. Israeli strikes killed six people in Nuseirat and another four in Bureij, two built-up refugee camps in central Gaza dating back to the 1948 war surrounding Israels creation . Another two people were killed in a strike on Gazas main north-south highway, according to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in the central city of Deir al-Balah, which received all 12 bodies. The war between Israel and Hamas began after Palestinian militants stormed into Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing about 1,200 people mostly civilians and abducting 250 others . Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, about a third of them believed to be dead. The Health Ministry in Gaza says around 43,800 Palestinians have been killed in the war. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but has said women and children make up more than half the fatalities. Around 90% of Gaza's population of 2.3 million Palestinians have been displaced , and large areas of the territory have been flattened by Israeli bombardment and ground operations. The Israeli military posted evacuation warnings on X about an hour before the strikes on southern Beirut, which came early Sunday. Local media reported church bells ringing in and around the area to alert residents. There were no immediate reports of casualties. The strike that killed Afif hit a building in central Beirut belonging to the Arab socialist Baath party. It was the first strike in the central part of the city in weeks. An Associated Press photographer at the scene saw four lifeless bodies and four wounded people. People could be seen fleeing the neighborhood after the strike, which came without warning. There was no immediate comment on the strike from the Israeli military. The Israeli military also renewed calls on Sunday for residents in over a dozen villages in southern Lebanon to flee as ground troops pushed farther north . Hezbollah began firing rockets, missiles and drones into Israel the day after Hamas 2023 attack, drawing retaliatory airstrikes. The conflict steadily escalated and erupted into all-out war in September. Israeli forces invaded Lebanon on Oct. 1. Hezbollah has continued to fire dozens of projectiles into Israel each day and has expanded their range to the central part of the country. A rocket barrage on the northern city of Haifa on Saturday damaged a synagogue and wounded two civilians. More than 3,400 people have been killed in Lebanon, according to the countrys Health Ministry, and over 1.2 million driven from their homes. It is not known how many of the dead are Hezbollah fighters. On the Israeli side, Hezbollahs aerial attacks have killed at least 76 people, including 31 soldiers, and caused some 60,000 people to flee from communities in the north. Israeli Justice Minister Yariv Levin seized on the flare attack on Netanyahu's home to call for a revival of his plans to overhaul the Israeli judiciary , which had sparked months of mass protests before the war. The time has come to provide full support for the restoration of the justice system and the law enforcement systems, and to put an end to anarchy, rampage, refusal, and attempts to harm the prime minister, he said in a statement. Supporters said the judiciary changes aim to strengthen democracy by circumscribing the authority of unelected judges and turning over more powers to elected officials. Opponents see the overhaul as a power grab by Netanyahu , who is on trial on corruption charges and for an assault on a key watchdog. Many Israelis believe the fierce internal divisions caused by the attempted overhaul had weakened the country and its military ahead of the Hamas assault. Opposition Leader Yair Lapid said in a post on X that he strongly condemns the firing of flares at Netanyahus home while blasting Levins proposal. Levin should go home with rest of this irresponsible government, Lapid wrote. We will not let him turn Israel into an undemocratic state. (AP) BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 17. Somalia is very interested in cooperation with Azerbaijan, the accredited Azerbaijani ambassador of Somalia in Ankara, Fathudin Ospite said during a meeting with Rashad Jabirli, chairman of the board of directors of MUSIAD Azerbaijan, Trend reports. He noted that Azerbaijan is the most dynamically developing country in the region. "We are ready to cooperate with Azerbaijan in various fields, and this is in our interest," he said. The ambassador noted that Mogadishu has set priorities within the framework of deepening cooperation with Baku. "These priorities exist and we are interested in cooperation in the fields of education, agriculture and tourism," the ambassador said. Emphasizing the importance of the mass media in the recognition of countries, the Somali diplomat noted that it would be good to have an exchange of experience between the mass media of Azerbaijan and Somalia. "If we get the news from the original source, we can get more complete and detailed information. In this regard, I think that there should be a connection between the Azerbaijani and Somali mass media", - he added. The ambassador added that work is being done to open the embassy of Somalia in Azerbaijan. During the meeting, Rashad Jabirli, chairman of MUSIAD Azerbaijan's management board, gave full information about Azerbaijan to the ambassador. "Azerbaijan has serious potential in many fields. Currently, many fields in the country, including tourism, are developing", Rashad Jabirli said. He noted that the country has fertile conditions for investment in various fields. "Azerbaijan has hosted a number of globally important events in recent years, and one of them is COP29. This event once again proves the importance of Azerbaijan," Jabirli said. By Cate McCurry, PA Simon Harris has called on the Sinn Fein leader to publish the partys manifesto ahead of the first leaders debate on Monday evening. The Fine Gael leader has accused Mary Lou McDonald of cynicism in not publishing the partys general election proposals before the televised debate. It comes as Ms McDonald accused Mr Harris of refusing to take part in a separate proposed debate. Posting on social media, Ms McDonald said Mr Harris was hiding and claimed he does not like to be challenged on his record. Paschal Donohoe (left) and Taoiseach Simon Harris during Fine Gaels general election manifesto launch at Horse & Jockey Hotel, Co. Tipperary ahead of the general election on November 29th. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA Images However, Mr Harris said his party has never received a formal invite to take part in a leaders debate with Sky News and Today FM ahead of the general election. Its an interesting position that Mary Lou McDonald thinks everyone in the country is afraid of debating her. I have a number of questions I want to talk to Mary Lou McDonald about and I look forward to that, with the debate tomorrow night, Mr Harris said during Fine Gaels manifesto launch in Co Tipperary. We have a debate the following Tuesday, and we have a debate in the Dail at least twice a week. Now it would be easier and more productive to debate her if she published her manifesto, and I think its a little bit cynical that she is going to publish her manifesto the day after the first leaders debate. She will be able to stand on the stage and say we will deal with that in the manifesto. My challenge to the leader of Sinn Fein is publish your manifesto before I see you tomorrow night at RTE, so we can have a real and meaningful debate on your costed proposals and vision for the this country. I have never been known to be shy or shirking a debate, and I am certainly not. There was an issue that my our director of elections have never received a formal invite to any other debates. Should they come, we will of course consider it and try to facilitate it. Sources said that while talks were continuing about the possibility of a debate taking place, no formal invitations were issued. Today FM radio host Matt Cooper posted on Twitter on Saturday: To clarify: Sky News and (Today FM) has put forward a proposal for a simulcast radio and tv debate next Friday. I remain hopeful that Simon Harris might be able to find time in his schedule. It is understood that Fianna Fail has agreed in principle to take part in the debate. Ms McDonald posted on Twitter: Simon Harris is refusing to take part in the proposed Today FM/Sky News leaders debate. He wont have this debate with me. He is hiding from answering for Fine Gaels disastrous performance in government over 14 years. Simon Harris has no new ideas, no new plans and doesnt like being challenged on his record. Party leaders will take part in two live debates in the coming weeks. All 10 political party leaders have been invited to take part in a debate on Monday, while a second debate between Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and Sinn Fein will take place on November 26th. Sky News has been contacted for comment. Washington DC, November 17: In a major development, over 40 American lawmakers have called upon US President Joe Biden to advocate for the immediate release of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, along with all other political prisoners in the country and ensure their safety in line with the findings of the UN Working Group report, Geo TV reported. In a letter to outgoing President Biden, as many as 46 members of Congress urged Biden to take steps and act for the release of the incarcerated PM. The details were shared by Imran Khan's party, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaaf (PTI), American Wing, on the social media platform, X. It noted that "46 members of the US House of Representatives, including members from both the Republican and Democratic parties, have written a letter to President Joe Biden calling for urgent action for the release of Imran Khan". According to the post, the letter was jointly led by Susan Wild and John James. Pakistan: Imran Khan Seeks Judicial Probe into Crackdown Against His Party. It is significant to note that PTI said that the letter criticised the role of the US Ambassador Donald Blome and his failure to 'incorporate the concerns of the Pakistani American community in its work including meaningfully advocating for the release of political prisoners, the restoration of human rights, or respect for democratic principles'. Geo News reported that Pakistan had denounced the resolution, saying it "stems from an incomplete understanding of the political situation and electoral process in Pakistan". As per Geo News, in their letter to the President, the US lawmakers, while referring to the provision of H. Res. 901, said that the legislation brought together Democrats and Republicans in support of a change in US policy, focusing on escalating human rights violations and erosion of civil liberties in Pakistan in the aftermath of the "flawed" February 2024 elections. "These elections were characterised by widespread irregularities, electoral fraud, and state-led suppression of the country's leading party, PTI, including disenfranchising the party in the leadup to the vote, as well as reversing precinct-level results, which showed an overwhelming victory for PTI-associated independent candidates", Geo TV noted. According to Geo TV, the American Lawmakers also expressed their disappointment over the "use of mass arrests, arbitrary detention, and the implementation of a de facto firewall against social media platforms, with reports of broader efforts to slow internet access speeds". Pak: Court to Pronounce Verdict on Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi Bail Plea on Nov 12. As per Geo TV, the lawmakers said a focal point of their concern is the unlawful detention of former prime minister Imran Khan who has been incarcerated since August last year in multiple cases ranging from corruption to terrorism "widely perceived to be Pakistan's most popular political figure". It was also noted that several activists associated with PTI, including senior party leaders like Yasmin Rashid and Shah Mehmood Qureshi, have been in detention for over a year. In a significant statement, Geo TV noted that the American lawmakers said, "Given these alarming developments, we believe a change of approach at the US Embassy in Islamabad is urgently needed." Last month, as many as 60 members of the US House of Representatives had written a letter to the president, calling on him to use Washington's leverage with Islamabad for the release of Khan, Geo News had earlier reported. The letter becomes significant as it marks the first such collective call from multiple members of the US Congress for the release of Imran Khan Opposition political parties expressed disappointment, stating that "PTI is continuously inviting foreign intervention for the release of PTI founder", PPP opposition leader Sherry Rehman said. The letter written by members of the US Congress was a clear interference in Pakistan's internal affairs, she said, adding that the move was against international norms, Geo TV reported. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Thane, Nov 17 (PTI) The Navi Mumbai police have invoked provisions of the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against four members of an inter-state gang of dacoits and chain snatchers, an official said on Sunday. A number of chain-snatching incidents were reported between October 23 and 26 in several areas of Navi Mumbai, he said. Also Read | Bhopal Shocker: Vegetarian Brothers Kill Younger Sibling After Rift Over Bringing Chicken Home, 3 Arrested. The police formed a couple of teams and conducted a probe into the cases using technical inputs. They also carried out searches in 40 to 45 housing societies as well as guest houses, the official said. The police subsequently nabbed four persons, in the age group of 19 to 27 and hailing from Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Navi Mumbai, and registered an FIR against them under section 309 (robbery) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, he said. Also Read | Himachal Pradesh Cabinet Approves Upgradation of Municipal Councils to Municipal Bodies, 2 Nagar Panchayats to Municipal Councils; 6 New Nagar Panchayats Created. During their interrogation, 10 cases of various thefts -- nine in Navi Mumbai and one in Delhi -- were detected, he said. The police also recovered a 'mangalsutra' (sacred necklace worn by married women), several gold chains and two motorcycles collectively valued at Rs 7.7 lakh from the accused, the official said. Following detection of the various crimes, provisions of the MCOCA were invoked against the accused on Saturday, the official said. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Guwahati (Assam) [India], November 17 (ANI): The Center for Indian Knowledge Systems (CIKS) at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) has announced the appointment of Dr Partha Sarathi Mahanta, Inspector General of Police, Assam, as an Honourary Fellow. Dr Mahanta will actively contribute to the institute's prestigious initiative, the 'Pandit Hemchandra Goswami Mission for Popularisation of Science and Assamese Culture,' stated a press release from CIKS of IIT Guwahati. This mission, named in honour of the eminent Assamese polymath and cultural icon Pandit Hemchandra Goswami, aims to inspire school and college students in Assam to embrace STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. Simultaneously, it seeks to deepen their appreciation for Assamese culture, language, and literature, added the release. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Concludes Productive Nigeria Visit, Leaves for Brazil to Attend G20 Summit. Under Dr Mahanta's leadership and guidance, the project will organize a variety of activities, including - workshops and seminars on STEM topics to ignite curiosity and innovation among young minds, cultural events and language programmes to celebrate and preserve Assamese heritage, collaborative initiatives with educational institutions to bridge scientific learning and cultural understanding, as per the release. Dr Naba Goswami, a doctor of extraordinary repute in the USA and the grandson of Pandit Hemchandra Goswami and Chairman of Pandit Hemchandra Goswami Foundation, is the founder of this project, while Prof Uday S. Dixit, Head of the Center for Indian Knowledge Systems, serves as the Principal Investigator of the project, said the release. Also Read | Delhi Assembly Elections 2025: BJP Likely to Release Poll Manifesto by Mid-December. Dr Mahanta's distinguished career in public service and his commitment to societal advancement make him a valuable addition to this initiative. His involvement is expected to create a profound impact, fostering a generation of students who are both scientifically adept and culturally rooted, the release stated. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi [India], November 17 (ANI): An alleged sharpshooter of the Neeraj Bawania gang who was involved in double murder in Delhi's Subhash Place area in 2014, was arrested from Sonepat in Haryana, police said on Sunday. The accused has been identified as Raghu alias Amarjeet (35), a proclaimed offender (PO) in the case, they said. Also Read | Bareilly: Woman Shot Dead in Broad Daylight by 2 Bike-Borne Unidentified Men; Police Probe CCTV Footage. Amarjeet, resident of Murthal's Hassanpur village in Sonepat, was absconding court proceedings in the double murder gang war shootout case of Police Station Subhash Place, police said. Police got a tip-off that Amarjeet, an active sharpshooter of the Neeraj Bawania gang, could be traced in Sonepat. Also Read | Latest Government Jobs Notifications: Eastern Railway Invites Applications for 60 Group C and Group D Posts, Apply Online at rrcrecruit.co.in; Know Recruitment Process and Other Details. Delhi Police's Crime Branch laid a trap near a wineshop at Hassanpur, Sonepat and apprehended him. During sustained interrogation, he confessed his involvement in the present case and several other cases of Police station Murthal, Sonepat and thus was arrested vide 41.1C and produced before the court concerned, police said. According to police, on August 24, 2014, residents of one of the posh localities of the Delhi, Subhash Place got chills with the sensational double murder in a gangwar between Neeraj Bawania Gang and Neetu Dabodia wherein multiple rounds were fired from both sides. A case u/s 302/307/120B/34 IPC & 25/27 Arms Act was registered and shooters Raghu alias Amarjeet, Parvesh Mann, Naveen, Naveen Sehrawat, Pradeep alias Kitty, Pankaj, Monu, Ashok and Sunny were arrested for their involvement in the said incident. Amarjeet evaded the court proceedings and Rohini Court declared him proclaimed offender in February 2019 for evading court proceedings in the case. He didn't refrain from criminal activities and was again found involved in cases of attempt to murder etc., in Delhi NCR, police said. As per directions of Senior Officers, activities of gang members especially shooters of active gangs in Delhi-NCR were being monitored continuously. The team of NR-II, zeroed down gang members who had criminal involvement in firing incidents and are still active in the field of crime and put them under surveillance, police said. Amarjeet disclosed that he studied up to tenth class and started working as a farmer with his family members. In the year 2009, he committed his first murder due to an old enmity in his native village, Hassanpur. He got arrested and was lodged in Sonepat Jail where he met Naveen alias Bali and other members of Neeraj Bawania Gang and joined hands with them. Amarjeet came out of the jail in 2013 and worked in tandem with famous gang members of Neeraj Bawania Gang and got involved in several murders, attempt to murder, dacoity, carjacking, robbery, burglary and under the Arms Act. He is still an active gangster who also has recent criminal history in cases of Police Station Murthal, Sonepat, police added. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi (India), November 17 (ANI): Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan met with a high-level delegation from Johns Hopkins University (JHU) on Sunday, during which the two sides explored the potential for establishing an offshore campus of the prestigious US university in India. The 12-member delegation was led by JHU's president Ronald J Daniels. The delegation also included officials from Gupta Klinsky India Institute (GKII), an internal unit of JHU with a mandate to bring the JHU community with Indian partners through research, education, policy and practice. Also Read | Yogi Adityanath Will Lose His Chair After UP Bypolls and Maharashtra Assembly Elections, Claims Akhilesh Yadav. During the meeting, the discussion centred on strengthening academic and research collaborations between JHU, a private research university in Baltimore, Maryland, United States, and premier Indian Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Pradhan emphasised the potential for collaborations to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among students in both nations, the education ministry said in a statement. Also Read | ICSI CSEET November 2024 Result Date: Results of Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test Exam To Be Declared on November 18 at icsi.edu, Know Timing and Steps To Download. Higher education Secretary K Sanjay Murthy; senior officials of the Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education and Ministry of External Affairs attended the meeting. "Pradhan highlighted the transformative opportunities enabled by the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020), which has paved the way for academic collaborations and advancing India's education sector," the statement read. Pradhan appreciated the JHU's commitment towards building robust partnerships with Indian HEIs, contributing to the global exchange of knowledge, particularly in the areas of dual and joint degree programmes, two-way mobility of students and faculty, and research partnerships in emerging fields like data science, artificial intelligence, and futuristic technologies. "He emphasised the potential for these collaborations to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among students in both nations. The delegation actively discussed establishing an offshore JHU campus in India," the ministry informed. The ministry asserted that the visit by Daniels and the delegation highlights the growing significance of India-US educational cooperation. As part of their multi-city tour of India, the delegation will visit various Indian university campuses and engage with key government officials and academic leaders. The delegation included distinguished academicians and administrators such as Fritz W. Schroeder, Senior Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations; Alexander Triantis, Dean of the Carey Business School; Judd Walson, Chair of the Department of International Health at the Bloomberg School; Sridevi Sarma, Vice Dean of Graduate Education at the Whiting School of Engineering; Jon Goldstein, Senior Associate Director of Development for International Programs; and Amita Gupta, Director of the Division of Infectious Diseases at Johns Hopkins University and Co-Founder of the Gupta-Klinsky India Institute (GKII). Prominent Indian-origin faculty from JHU, such as Mathuram Santosham, Professor of Paediatrics and International Health, and Chirag Parikh, Professor of Medicine and Director of the Division of Nephrology, also participated. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi [India], November 17 (ANI): Vikash Yadav, accused of attempting to murder Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannu in the United States, has filed an application before a Delhi court requesting exemption from attending his case hearing. Yadav claims that his personal details have been made public, putting his life at risk. He has asked the court to grant him relief from being present for the hearing due to the ongoing security threat. Also Read | Kailash Gahlot Steps Down As Delhi Transport Minister, Quits AAP Ahead of Assembly Elections 2025, Claims Party Facing 'Embarrassing and Awkward' Controversies. The plea stated that false and baseless allegations have been made against the applicant (Vikas Yadav) and that his personal details--such as his address, background, and photographs--have been widely circulated globally, thereby exposing him to a serious threat to his life from malicious elements. The plea further stated that the applicant is being relentlessly monitored by hostile elements, who are attempting to track him at all possible locations, leaving him with no option but to remain confined for his safety. Also Read | KSRTC Bus Fire Video: Major Blaze Breaks Out Inside Empty Vehicle on Sabarimala Nada Temple Route, No Injuries Reported (Watch Video). It was also argued that the threat to the applicant's life is immediate, grave, and imminent and that his physical presence in court could provide an opportunity for these elements to harm him. Given these circumstances, the plea emphasized that even appearing via video conference would be highly unsafe, as the applicant's location could potentially be traced using electronic technology, thereby reinforcing the request for exemption. Noting the submissions, the Delhi court granted the applicant exemption from attending the hearing on Saturday and directed him to appear on February 3. Vikash Yadav, said to be a former RAW official, has been named by the US in connection with the failed assassination attempt on Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Recently, Vikas Yadav's lawyers denied the allegations against him, claiming they were false and that he was being made a scapegoat in international political conflicts. A Vikash Yadav, was arrested by the Special Cell of Delhi Police in December of last year following a complaint from a businessman based in Rohini, northwest Delhi. A chargesheet was filed in March this year, and Yadav was granted bail in April. Yadav is facing a trial under charges of attempted murder and kidnapping. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 17. As part of the COP29 Parliamentary Meeting, co-organized by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the Milli Majlis of the Republic of Azerbaijan, participants adopted a final document, Trend reports. The two-day gathering of parliamentarians on the sidelines of COP29 also set out next steps in the fight against climate change. The meeting brought together key figures, including IPU Secretary General Martin Chungong, Azerbaijani Parliament Speaker Sahiba Gafarova, IPU Vice-President from Azerbaijan, MP Sevil Mikayilova, MP Soltan Mammadov, and other officials. Speaking to the event participants, MP Soltan Mammadov emphasized that COP29 will be another significant milestone for the global community. He pointed out that all eyes are on Baku today, where over 70,000 representatives from various delegations, including international organizations, civil society, NGOs, media, youth and women's groups, volunteers, eco-activists, and parliamentarians, have gathered. Together, they are discussing some of the worlds most pressing challenges, such as climate change and environmental protection. Azerbaijan has extensive experience in successfully hosting international events. Theres no doubt that COP29 will be another major event for the global community, the MP noted. IPU Secretary General Martin Chungong also added that the parliamentary session at COP29 will go down in history as one of the largest and most productive parliamentary events. Im confident that this session will be remembered as one of the most impactful and successful parliamentary events weve ever organized. The final document were presenting today is the result of a broad consultative process that sought to gather the views of as many parliamentarians as possible. This effort was meant to ensure that everyone feels engaged and committed to the recommendations in this document. This document can be seen as a blueprint for action by parliaments. It lays out clear, actionable commitments that parliaments are prepared to make. It also stands as a symbol of the strength of unity, he explained. On November 11, the 29th session of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) officially kicked off in Baku. The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change is an agreement signed at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in June 1992, aimed at preventing dangerous human interference with the climate system. COP (Conference of the Parties) is the highest legislative body overseeing the implementation of the Framework Convention on Climate Change. With 198 parties to the Convention, COP is held annually unless otherwise agreed. The first COP was held in March 1995 in Berlin, and its secretariat is based in Bonn. Baramulla (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], November 17 (ANI): Territorial Army (TA) announced the successful culmination of its recent recruitment drive, held from November 11 to 17, in Baramulla, according to a statement. The event saw unprecedented participation and engagement from aspiring candidates across the region, who braved inclement weather on certain days to pursue their dreams of serving the nation, 161 Territorial Army (TA) said in the statement. Also Read | Truth Coming Out: PM Narendra Modi Praises 'The Sabarmati Report' Film on Godhra Train Burning. The highly anticipated recruitment drive attracted a record number of applicants, demonstrating the immense interest and dedication of the youth towards serving the nation. The overwhelming response not only highlights the strong sense of patriotism among the candidates but also underscores the community's unwavering support for the armed forces and the positive development trajectory of Kashmir, it said. "We are immensely proud of the remarkable turnout and the exceptional talent displayed by our candidates," said Major General PS Punia, GOC, 19 Infantry Division at Baramulla. "This recruitment drive has been a testament to the dedication and passion of our youth towards serving their country. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this event," he added. Also Read | Karnataka Horror: Mother and Daughter Stripped and Draged by Neighbours Over Alleged Prostitution Allegations. According to the press statement, approximately twenty-three thousand young men from various backgrounds showcased their enthusiasm and commitment by attending the recruitment rally. Despite challenging weather conditions on some days, the candidates displayed remarkable resilience and dedication in their pursuit to join the Territorial Army. The complete recruitment drive was conducted in a fair and transparent manner, adhering to the highest standards of recruitment protocols. 161 Territorial Army, known for its discipline and commitment, ensured the entire process was smooth, fair and efficient. The local community played a vital role in supporting the event, providing facilities and resources to ensure a smooth and successful recruitment drive, it added. The participants thanked the Commanding Officer, 161 TA and expressed their gratitude towards the local administration which made the recruitment drive a grand success. 161 TA remains committed to upholding the values of integrity, honour, and excellence within the armed forces. The selected candidates will now undergo a written test to join the ranks of the esteemed Territorial Army, continuing the legacy of bravery and service to the nation, it said (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Jamtara (Jharkhand), Nov 17 (PTI) Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Sunday claimed that his alliance government was standing like a mountain in the state and the BJP was unable to shake it despite its nefarious design to topple it. He claimed that they put him behind bars to topple his government but could not shake it. Also Read | ICSI CSEET November 2024 Result Date: Results of Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test Exam To Be Declared on November 18 at icsi.edu, Know Timing and Steps To Download. "The unity of coalition partners is essential to protect the Constitution of the country and keep agenda-less BJP out of power,", Soren said at a public meeting at Jamtara in support of INDI block candidates in the ensuing assembly poll. Attacking the saffron party, Soren questioned what BJP did for adivasis, farmers, and poor people of the state. They did "nothing". Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Scripts History in Nigeria, Only Second Foreign Leader After Queen Elizabeth To Receive National Honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger. "We have delivered for the betterment of people, who are availing benefits of the government's welfare schemes like 'Aapki Sarkar, Aapke Dwar' (your government at your doorstep) where government officials visit the doorstep of people to solve their problems," Soren said. "All top BJP leaders camped in Jharkhand. They are desperate for power but we have succeeded in keeping them away from power for the last five years", he said. Soren alleged that the BJP was eyeing the minerals, jal, jungle and zamin (water, forest and land) of Jharkhand. He said Jharkhand is 24 years old and should have been the richest state of the country. Migration should have been stopped but these problems cropped up because of the "wrong policies" of the previous BJP government, Soren claimed. Soren appealed to the people to vote for JMM led alliance to strengthen his government. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Churachandpur (Manipur) [India], November 17 (ANI): Assam Rifles organised a security coordination meeting at Lailophai (near Sugnu Iron Bridge), Churachandpur District of Manipur to ensure peace and harmony. According to a statement from HQ IGAR (South), a high-level security meeting was convened and key representatives from Assam Rifles, Manipur Police, BSF and ITBP. DIG Kakching and Thoubal, DC Kakching, SP Kakching & SI Churachandpur district were also present in the meeting. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Concludes Productive Nigeria Visit, Leaves for Brazil to Attend G20 Summit. The meeting held on Saturday aimed to strengthen the coordination among security agencies and ensure peace and stability in the region. During the meeting, emphasis was given to enhanced vigilance, joint patrolling, harvesting protection and proactive measures to address any emerging situation, it added. The collaboration among security forces reflects a unified approach to safeguarding the safety and well-being of the local populace, read the statement. Also Read | Delhi Assembly Elections 2025: BJP Likely to Release Poll Manifesto by Mid-December. The meeting concluded with a joint resolution to intensify efforts towards a secure and harmonious environment in fringe areas bordering Kakching, Bishnupur and Churachandpur Districts, it added. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Bagalkot (Karnataka) [India], November 17 (ANI): Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday clarified that only ineligible Below Poverty Line (BPL) cards will be retrieved, and there will be no impact on eligible cardholders. The Chief Minister addressed the media in Bagalkot, responding to queries about BPL card cancellations. He stated, "The claim that BPL cards are being canceled is entirely incorrect. We are looking into retrieving cards that have been issued to ineligible persons. The Food Department is currently verifying these cases, and no final decision has been taken yet. Ineligible individuals will not retain cards, but eligible beneficiaries will not be denied their entitlements." Also Read | Gorakhpur Shocker: Ajay Nishad Who Broke Into Homes in Uttar Pradesh and Hit Sleeping Women on Head Arrested As Police Recover Blunt Objects Including Iron Rod and Bed Leg. CM Siddaramaiah further questioned whether BPL cards should be given to income tax payers and government employees, reiterating that no cards would be canceled outright. Only cards held by ineligible persons might be reclaimed, while ensuring that no eligible person is deprived of benefits. On being asked about BJP leader R. Ashoka's statement regarding freedom from a 40% commission allegation, the Chief Minister remarked, "We initiated an investigation based on a complaint from the Contractors' Association President, Kempanna. It is possible for suspects to be released due to a lack of evidence, but that does not imply the crime did not occur. It simply indicates insufficient evidence." (ANI) Also Read | Bangladesh Will Seek Extradition of Ex-Premier Sheikh Hasina From India, Says Muhammad Yunus While Addressing to Nation on His First 100 Days in Office. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, November 17: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to the veteran leader of Maratha politics, Balasaheb Thackeray on his death anniversary. Calling him a visionary leader, PM Modi said that he was the "cause" of Maharashtra's development and the empowerment of the Marathi people. "I pay homage to the great Balasaheb Thackeray Ji on his Punya Tithi. He was a visionary who championed the cause of Maharashtra's development and the empowerment of Marathi people. He was a firm believer in enhancing the pride of Indian culture and ethos. His bold voice and unwavering spirit continue to inspire generations," the Prime Minister posted on X. Balasaheb Thackeray Death Anniversary: PM Narendra Modi, Uddhav Thackeray, Rahul Gandhi, Others Pay Tribute to Shiv Sena Founder. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid tribute to an "eminent politician" Balasaheb Thackeray. Praising Balasaheb Thackeray's dedication to his values, Shah said that whenever the country talks about dedication to ideology and commitment to principles, he is definitely remembered. In a social media post on X, Amit Shah wrote, "I remember and pay my tribute to Balasaheb Thackeray, an eminent politician who dedicated his entire life to Sanatan culture and national interest, on his death anniversary. Whenever the country talks about dedication to ideology and commitment to principles, Balasaheb Thackeray is definitely remembered. Balasaheb's commitment towards Sanatan culture and religion, who never compromised on ideology and political values even in adverse circumstances, is inspiring." Balasaheb Thackeray Death Anniversary: PM Narendra Modi, Uddhav Thackeray, Rahul Gandhi, Others Pay Tribute to Shiv Sena Founder. "On the occasion of his death anniversary, we remember and pay homage to the great leader Balasaheb Thackeray ji, who dedicated his entire life to Sanatan culture and national interest. Whenever the issue of ideological dedication and principled commitment comes up in the country, Balasaheb Thackeray ji is definitely remembered. Balasaheb Thackeray's commitment to Sanatan culture and religion, even in adverse circumstances, not to compromise with ideology and political values is inspiring," the tweet added. Congress MP and Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi also remembered Balasaheb Thackeray on his death anniversary and posted on X, "Remembering Balasaheb Thackeray ji on his 12th death anniversary. My thoughts are with Uddhav Thackeray ji, Aditya and the entire Shiv Sena family." Born on January 23, 1926, in Pune, Balasaheb Thackeray had begun his professional career as a cartoonist with the English-language daily 'The Free Press Journal'. He later quit his professional job and founded the Shiv Sena in 1966 to advocate for the interests of the people of Maharashtra, particularly in Mumbai's political and professional landscape. Thackeray was also the founder of the Marathi-language newspaper 'Saamana'. Despite his significant influence in politics, he did not hold any official positions during his political career. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Pune, Nov 17 (PTI) Pratibha Pawar, wife of NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar, was allegedly stopped from entering the premises of Baramati Hi-Tech Textiles Park in Pune district on Sunday for half an hour. This was informed by the office of Baramati MP Supriya Sule. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Announces 20 Tons of Humanitarian Aid To Flood-Hit Nigeria, Says 'On Behalf of 140 Crore Indians, I Express Condolences Over the Loss of Lives Due to Flood'. Notably, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's wife and Rajya Sabha member Sunetra Pawar is the chairperson of the Baramati Hi-Tech Textiles Park, located in Baramati. A video shared by Supriya Sule's office shows female aides of Pratibha Pawar and Sule's daughter Revti Sule asking a security guard at the Park to open the gate as they wanted to do some purchasing. The guard told them he was instructed by one Anil Wagh to not open the gate. Also Read | Delhi Assembly Elections a Dharamyudh Like Mahabharata, Says Arvind Kejriwal. A male aide accompanying Pratibha Pawar and Revati Sule confirmed to PTI that they were not allowed to enter the premises for at least 30 minutes. When contacted, Textile Park chief manager Anil Wagh said he was not aware that Pratibha Pawar was supposed to visit the premises. "I was only told that a political rally would be arriving. As there was no permission for such a rally, I instructed security personnel at the gate to not allow any rally inside," Wagh claimed. When I was told that Pratibha Kaki, as Pratibha Pawar is popularly known, had arrived, I immediately asked security guards to open the gate and allow them inside, he said. According to Wagh, Pratibha Pawar and Revati Sule visited some companies on the premises of the Park and interacted with women workers. Baramati Hi-Tech Textile Park is one of 26 parks approved by the Union Ministry of Textiles. Under the chairmanship of Sunetra Pawar, this park was set up in the year 2008 over an area of 65 acres in Baramati in Pune district. A fierce electoral battle is playing out in the Baramati assembly constituency between Ajit Pawar, who revolved against uncle Sharad Pawar last year, and his nephew Yugendra Pawar. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Chennai, Nov 17 (PTI) A sudden power outage at the Kalaignar Centenary Super Specialty Hospital, Guindy, here, purportedly due to an electrical short circuit on late Saturday night left the patients and their attendants in shock. A senior government official, however, said the power supply was restored. Additional Chief Secretary of Tamil Nadu Health department Supriya Sahu said there was a fire accident in the main cable at the hospital, impacting the power supply in the KCSSH. Also Read | Bhopal Shocker: Vegetarian Brothers Kill Younger Sibling After Rift Over Bringing Chicken Home, 3 Arrested. The generator supply cable was also impacted. But immediately, we ensured power supply to 419 patients including 15 on ventillator support, through a separate generator. As a result, these patients were not affected, she said. Sahu said the Chief Engineer of Public Works Department and other officials made sure that power supply was provided through one HT cable. At present work was on to repair the generator. Also Read | Himachal Pradesh Cabinet Approves Upgradation of Municipal Councils to Municipal Bodies, 2 Nagar Panchayats to Municipal Councils; 6 New Nagar Panchayats Created. Our priority now is to make sure that the patients on ventillator support and critical care are not affected. We spoke to their attendants and gave an assurance. Main hospital supply has been restored now and there's no need to panic, Sahu told reporters at the hospital. Besides the Additional Chief Secretary, State Health Minister Ma Subramanian, too visited the hospital to oversee the restoration. The KCSSH has been in the news for wrong reasons in the past few days. The hospital witnessed a shocking incident of a senior oncologist getting stabbed by a patient's son on November 13, and two days later the kin of a patient who died at the hospital protested alleging medical negligence. There might be many reasons for the power disruption. It may be due to short circuit or water seeping into the electric cables. The reason is being probed, Sahu said and added that the power supply was restored within an hour. We went to all the wards and assured the attendants of the patients that there was nothing to panic. We were all here. Took maximum care to ensure supply to critical care patients, she said. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Agartala, Nov 17 (PTI) Two pantry car workers of Deoghar Express were arrested with ganja worth Rs 35.76 lakh at Agartala railway station, police said on Sunday. Based on specific inputs about possible smuggling of ganja, GRP and RPF personnel conducted a search of Deoghar Express on Saturday night, an officer said. Also Read | Cylinder Blast in Madhya Pradesh: At Least 40 People Injured in Blast at 'Chaat' Stall in Chhattarpur (Watch Video). "Around 6.30 pm, two workers of pantry car were spotted moving a pushcart towards Deoghar Express. The joint team stopped the pushcart and during the search found ganja packets. Both the persons were arrested with 298 kg ganja worth Rs 35.76 lakh," Officer in Charge (OC), Agartala GRP police station, Tapas Das told reporters. The two arrested pantry car workers were identified as Ankul Kumar and Bittu Kumar both residents of Bihar. Also Read | NPP Withdraws Support to BJP-Led Government in Violence-Hit Manipur, Claims N Biren Singh 'Completely Failed To Resolve Crisis, Restore Normalcy' in State. "We have started an investigation into the case to know the other members of the gang who are involved in ganja smuggling. This is for the first time that two workers who were serving food to passengers in long-distance trains were arrested in a ganja smuggling case," he said. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Lucknow/Jhansi (UP), Nov 17 (PTI) A newborn rescued from a fire that engulfed a children's ward at a government hospital in Jhansi died due to illness on Sunday, officials said. With this, 11 newborns who were admitted to the NICU at Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College have died. Ten of them died after the fire broke out in the ward on Friday night. Also Read | Latest Government Jobs Notifications: Eastern Railway Invites Applications for 60 Group C and Group D Posts, Apply Online at rrcrecruit.co.in; Know Recruitment Process and Other Details. One newborn who was shifted from NICU to PICU died during treatment for an illness. The boy did not sustain any burn injuries in the fire, Jhansi District Magistrate Avinash Kumar said. "Till Saturday, the number of deaths was 10 and that of children undergoing treatment at the NICU in Jhansi Medical College was 38. None of these children is undergoing treatment for burn injuries. These children were rescued by the hospital staff," he said. Also Read | India Successfully Test-Fires Long-Range Hypersonic Missile off the Coast of Odisha; Rajnath Singh Describes It As 'Historic' (Watch Video). "Among these 38 children, the condition of three was critical. Of these three newborns, one died on Sunday. However, he did not die due to burn injury," he added. Kumar told reporters that he inspected the hospital on Sunday and enquired about the well-being of the children admitted to the PICU. He also spoke to their family members. "I have spoken to the doctors and the condition of the children is stated to be stable," he said. The DM further said that the bodies of the newborns who died in the fire have been handed over to their families. "One child is with us and a family is claiming the child. We are doing a verification. No child is missing," he said. The Uttar Pradesh government on Saturday formed a four-member committee to investigate the hospital fire. The committee has been tasked with identifying the cause of the fire and determining whether there was any negligence. The government has sought its report within seven days. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, November 17: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders on Sunday came face to face after Delhi minister and senior AAP leader Kailash Gahlot's resignation from AAP's primary membership. The BJP said that Gahlot has taken a courageous step, while AAP leaders have termed Gehlot's resignation as part of BJP's 'dirty politics and conspiracy' and also alleged BJP of pressuring him. Earlier today, Kailash Gahlot resigned from AAP, citing deep concerns over the party's direction and internal challenges, saying that the political ambitions within the party have overshadowed its core commitment to serving the people. Reacting to the resignation of Kailash Gahlot, Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva said that the former has shown the mirror to Arvind Kejriwal. "Kailash Gahlot has shown the mirror to Arvind Kejriwal and told him that he does not want to be a part of Arvind Kejriwal and his 'lootera' gang. Kailash Gahlot has taken a very courageous step, and we appreciate this," Virendra Sachdeva told ANI. Arvind Kejriwal on Kailash Gehlot Resignation: Harassment Due to Raids by ED Forced Delhi Minister To Quit AAP. AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh claimed that Kailash Gahlot had to take this step as the BJP put an allegation of Rs 112 crores on him and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted several raids on his home in the last few days. "Kailash Gahlot's resignation is a part of the BJP's dirty politics and conspiracy. The BJP government conducted ED raids on him. Income tax raids were conducted at his residence for several days. BJP put an allegation of Rs 112 crores on him. Pressure was created on him, due to which Kailash Gahlot had to take this step. He did not have any option other than joining the BJP," Sanjay Singh said. Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadami Party (AAP) leader Atishi has accepted Delhi minister and senior AAP leader Kailash Gahlot's resignation ahead of the assembly polls in the national capital earlier next year. AAP spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar said that there were several cases of ED and CBI on Kailash Gahlot and his family. So, he thought it was better to join the BJP rather than go to jail. "Elections are underway, and the conspiracies of the BJP have started. ED and CBI have been activated. There were several cases of ED and CBI on Kailash Gahlot and his family. So, he thought it was better to join the BJP rather than go to jail. You can see his social media posts; he was working for AAP even 14-15 hours ago. The struggle in jail is tough, so he decided to join the BJP," Priyanka Kakkar stated. Reacting to the issue, BJP leader Nalin Kohli said, "In his resignation letter, Kailash Gehlot has raised some serious issues. He is pointing out that the situation of pollution in the Yamuna has only worsened under the AAP and its so-called governance model." Kailash Gahlot Quits AAP, Resigns as Delhi Cabinet Minister; Read His Full Resignation Letters Here. "There is a huge difference between what they promised and what they've done. When their accountability is questioned, they immediately start making excuses and deflect from the point," he added. Notably, Gahlot, in his resignation letter, criticised the shift in the party's focus from advocating for the rights of the people to advance its own political agenda, a shift he said has hindered AAP's ability to provide basic services to the residents of Delhi. He highlighted the unfulfilled promise of cleaning the Yamuna River, which remains more polluted than ever, and expressed concern over controversies like the 'Sheeshmahal' issue, which, he said, have led people to question whether AAP still upholds its commitment to being a party of the "Aam Aadmi." Kailash Gahlot also cited internal challenges and unfulfilled promises, including the failure to clean the Yamuna River. He criticized the party's shift from serving the people to prioritizing political ambitions, which he said has hindered basic service delivery in Delhi. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 17. COP29 will be another landmark event for the global community, said Azerbaijani MP Soltan Mammadov as he addressed the Parliamentary Meeting held as part of COP29, organized jointly by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the Azerbaijani Parliament, Trend reports. The international community has placed its trust in Azerbaijan by choosing our country to host COP29. While Azerbaijan is well-known for its abundant hydrocarbon resources, our nation has consistently shown its commitment to supporting the transition to green energy. This has helped us secure the 32nd position in the World Economic Forums Energy Transition Index. Azerbaijan is also a leader in the share of investments in renewable energy relative to GDP, he said. He highlighted that all eyes are now on Baku, where over 70,000 delegates from various sectors, including international organizations, civil society, NGOs, media, youth and womens groups, volunteers, eco-activists, and parliamentarians, have gathered to discuss urgent global issues like climate change and environmental protection. Azerbaijan has significant experience in hosting major international events. I am confident that COP29 will be another important milestone for the global community, Mammadov stressed. He also reminded that on May 16 in Geneva, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Milli Majlis of Azerbaijan and the Inter-Parliamentary Union to organize the parliamentary conference as part of COP29. We have prepared a draft of the final document for the COP29 parliamentary session, drawing from the results of previous conferences such as COP27 and COP28, and discussions held during the 148th IPU Assembly. After the initial draft was completed, we received valuable feedback and suggestions from countries including the UK, Russia, China, Romania, Austria, Saudi Arabia, and Japan. In June, the draft was revisited and further refined with new ideas at the preparatory meeting for COP29. The productive discussions continued at the 149th IPU session, and today I am pleased to present the final document, which reflects our collective efforts, the MP concluded. New Delhi, Nov 17 (PTI) An 18-year-old helper died after a truck rammed into another truck on the Rajokari Flyover in southwest Delhi, police said on Sunday. The victim was identified as Samir, a resident of Firozabad, they said. Also Read | ICSI CSEET November 2024 Result Date: Results of Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test Exam To Be Declared on November 18 at icsi.edu, Know Timing and Steps To Download. The incident occurred on Saturday. Upon reaching the spot, the police found two heavily damaged trucks, including the offending vehicle. "Preliminary inquiries revealed that the injured victim had been taken to an unknown hospital. No eyewitnesses were found at the scene," a police officer said. Also Read | Latest Government Jobs Notifications: Eastern Railway Invites Applications for 60 Group C and Group D Posts, Apply Online at rrcrecruit.co.in; Know Recruitment Process and Other Details. The police later received information from the Civil Hospital in Gurugram where Samir was declared brought dead, he said. Police said that he had been working as a truck helper. His body was sent for a postmortem at Safdarjung Hospital before being handed over to his family. "The truck driver, Imran Khan of Mewat, Haryana, was arrested and confessed to the crash. According to his statement, he had been driving at a high speed and applied sudden brakes on the flyover which caused a collision with another truck, leading to the fatal injuries of Samir," he added. Police said that Samir was the sole earner for his family. A case was registered against the driver and further investigation is underway. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, November 17: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday reviewed the security situation in Manipur and directed top security officials to take all possible steps to ensure peace in the Northeastern state, sources said. Shah held the meeting soon after he returned from Maharashtra after cancelling his election rallies there. Manipur Violence: After Mayhem in Jiribam, Houses of 3 Ministers and 6 MLAs, Mostly of Ruling BJP, Attacked Across State. The home minister reviewed the security situation in Manipur with top security officials and directed them to take all possible steps to ensure peace, the sources said. The move came as the situation in Manipur, which has been reeling from ethnic strife since May last year, continued to be volatile following protests and violence after the recovery of bodies of women and children. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Meerut, November 17: A truck ran over three people of a family riding a motorcycle near Karnaval Gate, killing them on the spot, police on Sunday said. The victims were identified as Upasana, 18, Manisha, 22, and Sunil Kashyap, 45, all of them natives of Ratangarhi village in Sardhana town. The family was on its way to a wedding in Sardhana when the accident took place, an officer said. Superintendent of Police (Rural) Rakesh Kumar Mishra said the truck is yet to be traced. UP Road Accident: 5 Died, Several Injured After Bus Collides With Parked Vehicle on Agra-Lucknow Expressway in Firozabad (Watch Videos). "The incident occurred near Karnaval Gate, where a sugarcane-laden trolley had broken down and was parked on a roadside. "The bike rider, attempting to avoid the trolley, lost control and crashed into it. As they fell, a truck coming from behind ran over them, killing all three on the spot," he said. In the wake of the incident, angry villagers blocked the road for several hours, demanding the arrest of the truck driver. Dehradun Road Accident: 1 Killed, Several Injured After 6 Cars Involve in Pile-Up at Uttarakhands Asharodi Check-Post, Disturbing Video Surfaces. The demonstration caused a heavy jam on either side of the road as police tried to placate the villagers. Police are looking for the truck driver who decamped after the incident. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Lahore, November 17: In a shocking incident, a pregnant woman was killed allegedly by her mother-in-law who along with her three accomplices chopped her body in dozens of pieces before dumping it in a drain in the Punjab province of Pakistan, police said on Sunday. The incident took place last week in Daska, Sialkot district, some 100 km from Lahore. Police arrested four suspects including the mother-in-law Sughran Bibi, her daughter Yasmin, her grandson Hamza and distant relative Navid. Zara Qadir, who was in her 20s, went missing last week. Later police found the chopped body of a woman in three sacks which was identified as Zara. Zara, the daughter of a police officer, married Qadir Ahmad four years ago and the couple had a three-year-old son. Zara after marriage had gone to Saudi Arabia to her husband who works there. A few months ago, she had returned to Pakistan. Pakistan: Dream Bazaar Mall Inauguration in Karachi Turns Chaotic as Crowd Storms and Loots Venue, Videos and Pics Go Viral. Senior police officer Omar Farooq told reporters on Sunday that the suspects confessed to having killed and dismembered the body of Zara. "In her confessional statement, Sughran Bibi said that she suspected Zara of allegedly practising 'witchcraft'. Besides, her son Qadir had started sending money directly to Zara in her bank instead to his mother." "The four suspects smothered Zara with a pillow while she was asleep. After that they burnt her face and chopped off her body into dozens of pieces before dumping it in a drain in three sacks," the police officer said and added Zara was also pregnant. Animal Cruelty in Pakistan: Man Chops Off Camels Leg for Grazing in Agricultural Field, Horrific Video Surfaces. "On Zara's father's statement that he suspected Sughran for claiming that she had run away with her lover upon her disappearance, we interrogated her (Sughran) who confessed to her crime," Farooq said. He said Sughran was also the sister of Zara's father. "This is a case of extreme jealousy as the mother-in-law and her daughter not only killed Zara but in cold blood dismembered her body into pieces in hatred," he said and Sughran and Yasmin were of the view that because of Zara's good looks Qadir was playing into her hands and ignoring them. A murder case has been registered against the suspects. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Washington, Nov 17 (AP) Donald Trump's choice of Matt Gaetz to be attorney general has many Justice Department employees reeling, worried not only about their own jobs but the future of the agency that the Trump loyalist has railed against. The president-elect's pick of the Florida Republican sent a shock throughout the Cabinet department, considering Gaetz's lack of experience in law enforcement and the fact that he was once the subject of a federal sex trafficking investigation. The names of well-regarded veteran lawyers had circulated as possible contenders for the job but Gaetz's selection was broadly interpreted as an indication of the premium that Trump places on personal loyalty and Trump's desire to have a disruptor lead a department that for years investigated and ultimately indicted him. Also Read | China Stabbing Attack: 8 Persons Killed 17 Injured in Knife Attack at Vocational School in Jiangsu Province. Career lawyers at the department interviewed by AP, all of whom spoke on the condition of anonymity, described a widespread sense of being stunned by the nomination -- even outrage. They spoke of being flooded with calls and messages from colleagues as soon as the news broke. Some inside the department were not immediately sure that Gaetz, who graduated law school in 2007 but has spent most of his career as a lawmaker, including in Congress, was even a lawyer. And some are already looking for new jobs as concerns grow over Gaetz's rhetoric about going after the "deep state". Also Read | Elon Musk Files Lawsuit Against Sam Altman-Run OpenAI, Reveals Interesting Email Exchanges Between Them. Gaetz has claimed the department is "corrupt and highly political", and strongly criticised the federal prosecutions of Trump and the January 6 rioters. He also has suggested abolishing two agencies he would oversee as attorney general, the FBI and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. He would arrive in the job without the legal experience of his predecessors, including the current attorney general, Merrick Garland, who as a high-ranking Justice Department official supervised the prosecution of the Oklahoma City bombing case before becoming a federal appeals court judge. Trump described Gaetz as the right person to "root out the systemic corruption" within the agency, end "weaponised" government and "restore Americans' badly-shattered faith and confidence in the Justice Department". "I think he was picked to shake the whole thing and to throw a grenade into DOJ," said John Fishwick Jr, a former US attorney for the Western District of Virginia, who was nominated by Democratic President Barack Obama. "He's a flamethrower and that's what Trump wants." Fishwick said Justice Department lawyers he has been in touch with are "concerned about what this is going to mean for them individually". But one Justice Department lawyer was less bothered by the change, saying a leadership shakeup could be a welcome reset given the "mistrust from both the left and the right" that the attorney said was justified after a tumultuous stretch of politically charged investigations that have divided public opinion and put federal law enforcement on the defensive. More recently, a special counsel was named to investigate President Joe Biden's handling of classified information, an inquiry that closed without charges, while a separate special counsel investigation into Trump's retention of top secret documents and efforts to overturn the 2020 election produced federal indictments against Trump that now are in line to be erased. It is unclear whether Gaetz has enough Republican support in the Senate to be confirmed. Some Republicans have praised his nomination but several have expressed concern or refused to say publicly yet whether they will support him. Trump has broached the possibility of bypassing the traditional confirmation process by pushing through his nominees while the Senate is in recess. Gaetz faces continued scrutiny over a federal sex trafficking investigation that ended without criminal charges. Before his resignation from the House on Wednesday, he had been under investigation by the House Ethics Committee, which was examining whether he engaged in sexual misconduct and illicit drug use, accepted improper gifts and tried to obstruct government investigations of his conduct. House Speaker Mike Johnson said on Friday that he will "strongly request" that the House committee not release the results of its investigation, rebuffing senators who are demanding access now that Gaetz has been picked for attorney general. Gaetz has denied all the allegations. Justice Department employees were already preparing for a major shakeup to the agency's agenda around civil rights and other matters before Trump settled on Gaetz to be the nation's top federal law enforcement officer. Trump has been known to take a keen interest in the FBI and Justice Department, expecting loyalty from leaders and calling for specific actions. Some career department lawyers leave for the private sector every time there is a new administration, but employees say there could be a dramatic departure of staff in the coming months. "The department runs on career employees, people who are apolitical in work, and politics aside, if all of these people are so dismayed at the selection of the attorney general that they leave, who will carry out the functions of the department?" said one Justice Department lawyer, who is planning to leave the government. (AP) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Kinshasa (Congo), Nov 16 (AP) At least 13 people were killed and others kidnapped in eastern Congo by extremist rebels linked to the Islamic State group, local authorities said Saturday. Rebels with the Allied Democratic Forces, which has ties to IS, killed civilians in Mabisio village in North Kivu province, said the area's administrator, Col. Alain Kiwewa, on state television. Also Read | China Stabbing Attack: 8 Persons Killed 17 Injured in Knife Attack at Vocational School in Jiangsu Province. Women were among those killed in the attack late Friday evening, and houses were burned and looted, he said. Eastern Congo has struggled with armed violence for decades as more than 120 groups fight for power, land and valuable mineral resources, while others try to defend their communities. Some armed groups have been accused of mass killings. Also Read | Elon Musk Files Lawsuit Against Sam Altman-Run OpenAI, Reveals Interesting Email Exchanges Between Them. In recent years, ADF attacks have intensified and spread towards Goma, eastern Congo's main city, as well as neighboring Ituri province. Rights groups and the United Nations have accused the ADF of killing hundreds of people and abducting even more, including a significant number of children. In August, the ADF killed at least 12 people in several villages in North Kivu. (AP) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Palm Beach (US), Nov 17 (AP) Donald Trump Jr. said Sunday that the team now around the president-elect knows how to choose a Cabinet and build out an administration, unlike the time before his father first took office. Any pushback that Donald Trump's unconventional choices face from the Washington establishment proves that they are just the kind of disruptors the new administration and voters are demanding, the younger Trump said. Also Read | Bangladesh Will Seek Extradition of Ex-Premier Sheikh Hasina From India, Says Muhammad Yunus While Addressing to Nation on His First 100 Days in Office. The reality this time is, we actually know what we're doing. We actually know who the good guys and the bad guys are, he told Fox News Channel's "Sunday Morning Futures. And it's about surrounding my father with people who are both competent and loyal. They will deliver on his promises. They will deliver on his message. They are not people who think they know better, as unelected bureaucrats. After Donald Trump was elected in 2016, he stocked his early administration with choices from traditional Republican and business circles, tapping figures such as former Exxon Mobil CEO Rex Tillerson, who was his first as secretary of state. Also Read | Pakistan Shocker: Pregnant Woman Killed by Her Mother-in-Law, Chopped Into Dozens of Pieces in Punjab Province. Today, Trump is valuing personal allegiance above political experience. That has translated into selections such as former Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz, who faced a House ethics investigation, as attorney general, anti-vaccine activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as head of the Department of Health and Human Services and Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democratic lawmaker who has in the past publicly expressed sympathy to Russian causes, as director of U.S. intelligence services. Some of his picks might face difficulties getting confirmed by the Senate, even with Republicans holding a majority in January. Donald Trump Jr. suggested that was precisely the idea. A lot of them are going to face pushback but they are going to be actual disrupters," he said. "That's what the American people want. He said there are backup plans if Senate confirmation is problematic in some cases, but we're obviously going with the strongest candidates first." Trump Jr. also looked back to eight years ago, when his businessman father was new to Washington and its ways. "A big part of that process is just something that we didn't understand in 2016, where he came to Washington, D.C., he had no experience, he said. Now, his son said, Trump knows what to expect. Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo., said the president-elect has a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to deliver that change, to take on permanent Washington, return the power back to the people." You have to have people you trust to go into these agencies and have a real reform agenda. And that's why I think there's real momentum, real momentum to get these nominations confirmed to actually deliver what President Trump promised on the campaign trail, Schmitt told Sunday Morning Futures. On the same show, Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., said, "We don't need any Democrats to help us. We have got the numbers." But, he added, Trump needs a team around him that's going to help him. He can't do it by himself. Vivek Ramaswamy, the former Republican presidential candidate tapped by Trump along with businessman Elon Musk to lead a new effort on government efficiency, also predicted pushback from traditional Washington to promised steep federal cuts that he said showed the needed to in the early months, score quick wins through executive action. (AP) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Colombo, Nov 17 (PTI) The International Monetary Fund team on Sunday arrived in Sri Lanka to carry out the third review of nearly USD 3 billion bailout facility, Finance Ministry officials said. The third review should lead to the fourth tranche of the 4-year facility. It would be around 330 million dollars as was the case in the previous three tranches, Finance Ministry officials said. Also Read | Bangladesh Will Seek Extradition of Ex-Premier Sheikh Hasina From India, Says Muhammad Yunus While Addressing to Nation on His First 100 Days in Office. Sri Lanka's economic reform programme is supported by the IMF's Extended Fund Facility (EFF). This review was put on hold until the conclusion of the presidential election that were held in September. There was further delay due to the new National People's Power (NPP) government calling for a snap parliamentary election that took place this week. Also Read | Pakistan Shocker: Pregnant Woman Killed by Her Mother-in-Law, Chopped Into Dozens of Pieces in Punjab Province. This will be the first NPP interaction with IMF officials since they won the record-breaking landslide victory on Wednesday taking absolute control of the 225-member assembly. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake despite pre-presidential election rhetoric on anti-IMF facilities where they said its conditions need to be watered down has been muted in criticism since taking over from his predecessor Ranil Wickremesinghe. Dissanayake told the last election rally that after the third review is completed he was hopeful of receiving the fourth tranche by February. This review would assess if Sri Lanka has been meeting programme targets such as state revenue and building reserves. The debt restructuring agreements reached in the last week of the Wickremesinghe presidency is yet to be officially sealed. Debt restructuring agreement with both bilateral and sovereign bondholders was made compulsory to maintain debt sustainability by the IMF. Sri Lanka tapped the IMF for a facility at the height of the economic crisis under the presidency of Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the president who was made to flee the country by months-long public protests. Mid April of 2022 Sri Lanka announced its first-ever debt default. The negotiations with the IMF began thereafter and the Wickremesinghe's government clinched the bailout, a year later in March 2023. Until then Sri Lanka was banking on a USD 4 billion Indian credit line which paid for fuel and essentials. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Beirut, Nov 17 (AP) Israeli ground forces reached their deepest point in Lebanon since they invaded six weeks ago before pulling back on Saturday after battles with Hezbollah militants, Lebanese state media reported. The clashes and further Israeli bombardment came as Lebanese and Hezbollah officials study a draft proposal presented by the US on ending the war. Also Read | China Stabbing Attack: 8 Persons Killed 17 Injured in Knife Attack at Vocational School in Jiangsu Province. Israeli troops briefly captured a strategic hill in the southern village of Chamaa, about five kilometres from the border, the state-run National News Agency reported. It said Israeli troops blew up the Shrine of Shimon the Prophet in Chamaa as well as several homes, but that could not be verified. Israel's military did not respond to requests for comment but said in a statement its troops continue "limited, localised" operations in southern Lebanon. Also Read | Elon Musk Files Lawsuit Against Sam Altman-Run OpenAI, Reveals Interesting Email Exchanges Between Them. Israeli warplanes pounded Beirut's southern suburbs known as Dahiyeh, a Hezbollah stronghold, and several other areas including the port city of Tyre. An airstrike on the northeastern village of Khraibeh killed a couple and their four children, the National News Agency said. Shrapnel from a strike in Dahiyeh wounded a teenage girl in the head and she was in intensive care, a hospital official said on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak about patients' conditions. Israel's military said it hit multiple Hezbollah sites. Since late September, Israel has dramatically escalated its bombardment of Lebanon, vowing to severely weaken the Iranian-backed Hezbollah and end its barrages in Israel that the militants have said are in solidarity with Palestinians during the war in Gaza. Israel's military said a synagogue was struck and two civilians hurt in a "heavy rocket barrage" by Hezbollah on Haifa, northern Israel's largest city. Police said they were lightly injured. Hezbollah said it fired missiles at five Israeli military facilities in Haifa and its suburbs. Israel said Hezbollah fired more than 60 projectiles into Israel on Saturday. More than 3,400 people have been killed in Lebanon by Israeli fire -- 80 per cent of them in the past eight weeks -- according to Lebanon's Health Ministry. Israel has said it wants to ensure that thousands of Israelis can return to their homes near the border. Israel's military said a soldier died in combat in southern Lebanon on Friday. Meanwhile, in Gaza, an Israeli airstrike on Saturday evening on a UN-run school sheltering displaced people killed 10 and wounded 20, the Palestinian news agency WAFA reported. It said two missiles were fired at the Abu Assi School in the Shati refugee camp on the edge of Gaza City. Israel's military said it struck a Hamas command centre in the compound. The war between Israel and Hamas began after Palestinian militants stormed into Israel on October 7, 2023, killing about 1,200 people -- mostly civilians -- and abducting 250 others. Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, about a third of them believed to be dead. Israelis rallied again in Tel Aviv on Saturday night to demand a ceasefire deal to return them. The health ministry in Gaza has said at least 43,799 Palestinians have been killed in the war. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but has said more than half of those killed have been women and children. The UN Security Council's 10 elected members on Thursday circulated a draft resolution demanding "an immediate, unconditional and permanent cease-fire" in Gaza. The US, Israel's closest ally, holds the key to whether the council adopts the resolution. On Friday, Lebanon's caretaker prime minister apparently urged Iran to persuade Hezbollah to agree to a ceasefire deal with Israel, which would require the group to pull back from the border. A copy of the draft proposal presented by the US earlier this week was handed over to Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, who has been negotiating on behalf of Hezbollah, according to a Lebanese official. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak about the secret talks, said Berri is expected to give Lebanon's response on Monday. Another Lebanese politician said Hezbollah officials had received the draft and would express their opinion to Berri. The politician spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak to the media about the ongoing talks. The proposal is based on UN Security Council resolution 1701, which ended the last Israel-Hezbollah war in 2006. Berri told the pan-Arab Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper that the draft does not include any item that allows Israel to act in Lebanon if the deal is violated, saying, "We will not accept any infringement of our sovereignty." He added that Lebanon does not accept the proposal to form a committee to supervise the agreement that includes members from Western countries. A UN peacekeeping force already operates near the border in Lebanon. Berri said talks continue and "the atmosphere is positive but all relies on how things will end". (AP) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Atlanta, Nov 17 (AP) Kamala Harris and the Democratic Party's prodigious fundraising operation raised more than USD 1 billion in her loss to Donald Trump but the vice-president is still pushing donors for more money after the election. Democrats are sending persistent appeals to Harris supporters without expressly asking them to cover any potential debts, enticing would-be donors instead with other matters -- the Republican president-elect's picks for his upcoming administration and a handful of pending congressional contests where ballots are still being tallied. Also Read | China Stabbing Attack: 8 Persons Killed 17 Injured in Knife Attack at Vocational School in Jiangsu Province. "The Harris campaign certainly spent more than they raised and is now busy trying to fundraise," said Adrian Hemond, a Democratic strategist from Michigan. He said he was asked by the campaign after its loss to Trump to help with fundraising. Also Read | Elon Musk Files Lawsuit Against Sam Altman-Run OpenAI, Reveals Interesting Email Exchanges Between Them. The party is flooding Harris' lucrative email donor list with near-daily appeals aimed at small-dollar donors -- those whose contributions are measured in the hundreds of dollars or less. But Hemond said the postelection effort also includes individual calls to larger donors. The scramble now underscores the expense involved in a losing effort and the immediate challenges facing Democrats as they try to maintain a baseline political operation to counter the Trump administration and prepare for the 2026 midterm elections. It also calls into question how Democrats used their resources, including hosting events with musicians and other celebrities as well as running ads in a variety of nontraditional spaces such as Las Vegas' domed Sphere. Internally, the apparent cash crunch is being blamed for the campaign's decision to stop paying many senior staff as of Saturday, even those initially told they would be paid through the end of the year. Facing internal frustration, the campaign notified those affected in recent days that their health insurance would be covered through the end of the year, according to one person with direct knowledge of the situation who spoke on condition of anonymity to share internal discussions. Another person familiar with the fundraising effort and the Democratic National Committee's finances said the Harris campaign's expected shortfall is a relatively small sum compared to the breadth of the campaign, which reported having USD 119 million cash on hand in mid-October before the November 5 election. That person was not authorised to publicly discuss the campaign's finances and spoke on condition of anonymity. Patrick Stauffer, chief financial officer for the Harris campaign, said in a statement that "there were no outstanding debts or bills overdue" on Election Day and there "will be no debt" listed for either the campaign or the DNC on their next financial disclosures, which are due to the Federal Election Commission in December. The person familiar with the campaign and DNC's finances said it was impossible to know just where Harris' balance sheet stands currently. The campaign still is getting invoices from vendors for events and other services from near the end of the race. The campaign also has outstanding receipts; for example, from media organisations that must pay for their employees' spots on Air Force Two as it travelled for the vice-president's campaign activities. Within hours of Trump picking Florida Republican Matt Gaetz for attorney general on Wednesday, Harris' supporters got an appeal for more money for "the Harris Fight Fund", citing the emerging Trump team and its agenda. Gaetz, who resigned his House seat after the announcement, "will weaponise the Justice Department to protect themselves", the email said. It said Democrats "must stop them from executing Trump's plans for revenge and retribution" and noted that "even his Republican allies are shocked by this" Cabinet choice. Another appeal followed Friday in Harris' name. "The light of America's promise will burn bright as long as we keep fighting," the email said, adding that "there are still a number of critical races across the country that are either too close to call or with the margin of recounts or certain legal challenges". The emails do not mention Harris' campaign or its finances. The "Harris Fight Fund" is a postelection label for the "Harris Victory Fund", which is the joint fundraising operation of Harris' campaign, the DNC and state Democratic parties. Despite the language in the recent appeals, most rank-and-file donors' contributions would be routed to the national party, unless a donor took the time to contact the DNC directly and have the money go directly to Harris or a state party. The fine print at the bottom of the solicitation explains that the first USD 41,300 from a person and first USD 15,000 from a political action committee would be allocated to the DNC. The next USD 3,300 from a person or $5,000 from a PAC would go to the Harris for President "Recount Account". Anything beyond that threshold, up to maximum contribution limits that can reach into the hundreds of thousands of dollars, would be spread across state parties. Officials at the DNC, which is set to undergo a leadership change early next year, indicated the party has no plans to cover any shortfall for Harris but could not explicitly rule out the party shifting any money to the campaign. (AP) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 17. The session at COP29 will be remembered as one of the largest and most impactful parliamentary events in history, said Secretary General of the IPU Martin Chungong during his speech at the Parliamentary Meeting held as part of COP29, which was organized jointly by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the Milli Majlis of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Trend reports. I am confident that this session will be recorded as one of the largest and most effective parliamentary events we've ever organized. The final document presented is the result of an extensive consultative process that sought to incorporate the views of as many parliamentarians as possible. This effort was aimed at ensuring that each of you feels a sense of involvement and commitment to the recommendations in the document. This document can be seen as a roadmap for parliaments, with clear and actionable commitments that we are ready to undertake. It also represents the power of unity, he said. Its worth noting that during the Parliamentary Meeting at COP29, organized jointly by the IPU and the Milli Majlis of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the final document was adopted. After two days of discussions, the participants also defined the next steps in the fight against climate change. Singapore, November 17 (ANI): The first day of the Singapore visit by Odisha's high-level delegation, led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Industry Minister Sampad Chandra Swain, commenced with a briefing by Dr. Shilpak Ambule, Indian High Commissioner to Singapore on India-Singapore Business Relations. The High Commissioner informed the delegation about the recent trade and commerce-related developments between the two countries. He also highlighted the role of Indian states like Odisha in further strengthening this bilateral relationship, especially in sectors like Chemicals and Petrochemicals, Renewable Energy, Green Fuels, and Skilling. After the briefing by the High Commissioner, a series of meetings chaired by the Chief Minister were held, said Odisha CMO in a press release on Sunday. Also Read | Bangladesh Will Seek Extradition of Ex-Premier Sheikh Hasina From India, Says Muhammad Yunus While Addressing to Nation on His First 100 Days in Office. The first meeting was with Dr Edward Morton, Founder, CT Metrix where the developments in the IT/ITeS, Semiconductors, Medical Equipment Manufacturing and Smart City Solutions were discussed. Chief Minister assured that the Odisha Government with take all proactive measures to ensure the development of a robust Electronics Ecosystem in the state and invited Mr Morton to visit Odisha and explore the business opportunities the state offers, added the press release. The next meeting was with Vivek Agarwal, Director, Visa Group Limited. The Chief Minister urged the Visa Group to expand capacity, increase value-added products, and create more employment opportunities in the state in Steel and Ferro-Chrome Sectors. The delegation also met with Rabin Jhunjhunwala, Chairman, Orind Singapore Pte Ltd who is looking to invest in the bio-fertilizers sector. The Chief Minister encouraged Jhunjhunwala to set up the facility in Odisha and assured all necessary support from the Government of Odisha, stated the release. Also Read | Pakistan Shocker: Pregnant Woman Killed by Her Mother-in-Law, Chopped Into Dozens of Pieces in Punjab Province. After the meetings, the delegation led by the Chief Minister visited Sembcorp Industries Ltd., where the delegation explored Singapore's advancements in renewable energy. Chief Minister Majhi announced the approval of Sembcorp's Green Ammonia project in Odisha. This aligns with the state's focus on attracting investments in Renewable Energy, Green Fuels and related Manufacturing Sectors, according to the press release. The discussions explored opportunities for collaboration to build sustainable infrastructure and strengthen Odisha's position as a key destination for green investments. The day concluded with a dinner hosted by the High Commissioner of India in Singapore for the Chief Minister and the Odisha State Delegation, as per the release. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi remarked, "This is my first foreign visit as Chief Minister, and we chose Singapore for the Odisha Business Meet due to its thriving industrial ecosystem and innovative practices. Singapore's excellence in infrastructure, logistics, and urban management presents valuable lessons for our rapidly urbanizing state. India and Singapore share strong economic, strategic, and cultural ties, and Odisha is poised to enhance this partnership. My government is committed to providing full facilitation for investors, offering opportunities in sectors like handloom, seafood, and skilled workers. Over the next three days, I will meet with potential investors to foster growth and collaboration." Industry Minister Sampad Chandra Swain added, "Odisha's strategic location on India's eastern seaboard makes it a major investment hub, particularly for green fuels and renewable energy. Today's engagements provided us with valuable insights to further enhance our industrial ecosystem and attract global investments." The visit marks a critical outreach effort as part of the upcoming Utkarsh Odisha: Make in Odisha Conclave 2025, showcasing Odisha's potential to global investors. The next three days hold significant importance, with planned visits to the Jurong Petrochemicals Region, ITEES, PSA Horizons, and more high-level meetings aimed at strengthening Odisha's industrial growth and sustainable development, said the release. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Islamabad [Pakistan], November 17 (ANI): The Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) has sparked widespread criticism from digital rights advocates, lawmakers, and religious scholars after its chief, Raghib Naeemi, declared the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) for accessing "immoral or illegal content" as un-Islamic. The statement has been described by critics as an overreach, with claims it aligns with broader attempts to curb free expression under the guise of religious justification, Dawn reported. Also Read | Israel-Lebanon Conflict: 11 Killed, 11 Injured in Israeli Airstrikes in Village of Khreibeh in Eastern Baalbek-Hermel Governorate, Hezbollah Claims It Destroyed Israeli Merkava Tank. Naeemi's remarks, made on Friday, framed the use of VPNs for accessing inappropriate material as contrary to Sharia law. However, a CII member clarified that this was not an official council decision but Dr. Naeemi's personal viewpoint. "Watching immoral content by using technology cannot be categorised as a religious issue," the member said. Critics, including telecom experts and rights activists, argue the decree targets freedom of expression and privacy rather than addressing genuine moral concerns. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Arrives in Abuja Marking First Ever Visit to Nigeria, Receives Warm Welcome From President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (See Pics and Video). Prominent religious scholar Maulana Tariq Jameel questioned the logic of targeting VPNs, pointing out, "If watching adult content or blasphemous material was an issue, then mobile phones should be declared un-Islamic before labelling VPNs as such." Nighat Dad, the Executive Director of the Digital Rights Foundation, called the decree "contradictory" to constitutional privacy rights and argued it aims to stifle dissent on social media. Lawmakers have also joined the criticism. Senator Palwasha Khan, chairperson of the Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecom, has scheduled a meeting on November 18 to discuss restrictions on VPNs. She raised concerns about whether the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) intends to monitor users' online activity. Senator Allama Nasir Abbas of the Majlis Wahdat Muslimeen (MWM) accused the country's leadership of using laws and decrees "as per their whims," labelling them as representatives of a "corrupt elite," reported Dawn. Meanwhile, the PTA has reiterated its requirements for commercial VPN users to register their services. According to its latest statement, entities such as software houses, call centres, banks, embassies, and freelancers must complete the free online registration process by submitting documentation such as CNICs, company registration details, and employer verification. PTA claims to have processed over 20,000 registrations so far, with approvals typically granted within 8 to 10 days, Dawn reported. As debates intensify, the decree has ignited broader discussions about the intersection of technology, governance, and religious principles in Pakistan, raising concerns about the implications for digital privacy and freedom of expression. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Islamabad, Nov 17 (PTI) Pakistan's leading constitutional religious body came under severe criticism after it issued an edict terming the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to access blocked content on the internet as 'un-Islamic'. The unprecedented proclamation by the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII), which advises parliament on aligning legislation with Islamic teachings, enraged digital rights activists as well as some religious scholars. Also Read | Who Is Miss Universe 2024 Victoria Kjaer Theilvig? View Photos of Denmark Beauty Queen Who Won the New Crown With Her Unmatched Grace and Confidence at 73rd Miss Universe Beauty Pageant. According to the Dawn newspaper, the CII chief Raghib Naeemi said that using VPNs to access immoral or illegal content was against Sharia. Also Read | Benjamin Netanyahu's House Targeted: 2 Light Bombs Fired at Garden of Israeli PM, None Hurt; Video of Attack Surfaces. In a social media statement on Saturday, Maulana Tariq Jameel, a prominent religious scholar, said if watching adult content or blasphemous material was an issue then mobile phones should be declared un-Islamic before labelling VPNs as such. Senator Allama Nasir Abbas, the chief of Shia organisation Majlis Wahdat Muslimeen (MWM), said the country was being ruled by an incompetent and corrupt elite who were not even the true representatives of the people. They make laws in such a way and are using decrees as per their whims, Senator Abbas added. Wahaj Siraj, the CEO of telecom company Nayatel, said technology has always been neutral and only its use or misuse made it Halal or Haram'. The issue of VPNs came to light after the Interior Ministry asked the Pakistan Telecom Authority, the electronic media watchdog, to take action against their illegal use as they were being used for terrorism. Nighat Dad, the executive director of the Digital Rights Foundation, said the action to block VPNs was contradictory to the rights of privacy granted in the Constitution. This move was only to target certain social media users, she claimed. Senator Palwasha Khan has called a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecom, which she heads, on November 18. The meeting will discuss restrictions on what the telecom regulator called illegal use of VPNs in Pakistan. Khan questioned if the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will be monitoring the content watched by users. A CII member told Dawn that the statement was Naeemi's personal views and not the council's decision. He said watching immoral content by using technology cannot be categorised as a religious issue. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Abuja [Nigeria], November 17 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a "very productive discussion" with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday to add "momentum" to the strategic partnership between the two countries. The PM highlighted that there is "immense scope" for the ties to be strengthened in various sectors like defence, technology, health and more. "Had a very productive discussion with President Tinubu. We talked about adding momentum to our strategic partnership. There is immense scope for ties to flourish even further in sectors like defence, energy, technology, trade, health, education and more," PM Modi said in a post on social media platform X. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Announces 20 Tons of Humanitarian Aid To Flood-Hit Nigeria, Says 'On Behalf of 140 Crore Indians, I Express Condolences Over the Loss of Lives Due to Flood'. Earlier, India and Nigeria exchanged Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on Sunday as PM Modi met with Nigerian President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Nigeria. Along with the PM, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and other officials were present at the exchange of MoUs Also Read | Hezbollahs Main Spokesman Mohammed Afif Killed in Israeli Strike in Central Beirut, Says Official. India and Nigeria have been strategic partners since 2007 with growing economic, energy and defence collaboration. More than 200 Indian companies have invested over USD 27 billion in important sectors in Nigeria. India and Nigeria also share a strong development cooperation partnership. The visit by PM Modi is the first by a Prime Minister of India to Nigeria in 17 years. PM Modi is on a three-nation tour to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana scheduled from November 17 to November 21. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Diamer [PoGB], November 17 (ANI): Amid the ongoing protests in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB) over the severe shortage of teachers, students from the Degree College Chilas staged a protest and blocked the main road in the Diamer district. Students have been grappling with a lack of teachers for several months. They voiced their frustration over the disruption to their education. Protesters explained that no new teachers had been hired in the past four months due to a recruitment ban imposed by the college principal. As a result, the few teachers available are struggling to cover all subjects, leaving students without adequate instructions. Also Read | Bangladesh Will Seek Extradition of Ex-Premier Sheikh Hasina From India, Says Muhammad Yunus While Addressing to Nation on His First 100 Days in Office. One protester said, "The reason we blocked the road is that the administration is not listening to us. They are doing nothing to address the issue. We have only 26 teachers, and 20 of them are absent. We are urging them to at least provide teachers for core subjects. The administration is wasting our time." In addition to the shortage of teaching staff, students highlighted the lack of basic facilities at the college, which has further exacerbated the crisis. "We are protesting over the lack of teachers," said another protester. "We have even boycotted classes. We will protest here for two days, but if our demands are not met, we will take the protest to the city. Everyone here is protesting because the principal and the PoGB administration are doing nothing." Also Read | Pakistan Shocker: Pregnant Woman Killed by Her Mother-in-Law, Chopped Into Dozens of Pieces in Punjab Province. The protests have shed light on the severe neglect of education in the region, particularly in Diamer, where several departments--including science, commerce, and humanities are facing major disruptions. In some cases, entire subjects are left without instructors, depriving students of the essential guidance needed to complete their studies. This protest is part of a larger issue of educational deprivation in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan, where limited resources, political instability, and systemic neglect have hindered progress. Many residents view the lack of educational opportunities as a deliberate strategy to maintain control, fearing that an educated population might challenge the region's political status and demand greater autonomy. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Berlin, Nov 17 (AP) Prominent Russian opposition figures led a march of at least 1,000 people in central Berlin Sunday, criticizing Russian President Vladimir Putin and his war in Ukraine and calling for democracy in Russia. Behind a banner that read No Putin. No War, the protesters were led by Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of top Putin critic Alexei Navalny, as well as Ilya Yashin and Vladimir Kara-Murza, who were freed from Russian detention in a high-profile prisoner exchange this summer. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Scripts History in Nigeria, Only Second Foreign Leader After Queen Elizabeth To Receive National Honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger. Shouting Russia without Putin and other chants in Russian, the demonstrators held up signs with a wide array of messages on a red background, including Putin = War and Putin is a murderer in German. Some marched with the flags of Russia or Ukraine, as well as a white-blue-white flag used by some Russian opposition groups. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Announces 20 Tons of Humanitarian Aid To Flood-Hit Nigeria, Says 'On Behalf of 140 Crore Indians, I Express Condolences Over the Loss of Lives Due to Flood'. Organisers said the march began near Potsdamer Platz and went through the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie and was expected to end outside the Russian Embassy. The march demands the immediate withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine, the trial of Vladimir Putin as a war criminal, and the release of all political prisoners in Russia, the protesters said in a statement. Yashin, in a statement before the demonstration, said demonstrators were using the freedom we have here in Berlin to show the world: A peaceful, free, and civilized Russia exists. Navalnaya, Yashin and Kara-Murza have all billed Sunday's rally as a show of unity at a time when recent rounds of acrimony have roiled the anti-war camp. Russia's exiled anti-war opposition has so far largely failed to speak with one voice and present a clear plan of action. The landmark East-West prisoner swap in August freed key dissidents and promised to reinvigorate a movement unmoored by the death in prison of Navalny, a charismatic anti-corruption campaigner and arch-Kremlin foe. Instead, tensions have spiked in recent months, as Navalny's allies and other prominent dissidents swapped accusations that appeared to dash any hopes of a united anti-Kremlin front. Many opposition-minded Russians have voiced deep frustration with the infighting, and with what some view as efforts by rivalling groups to discredit and wrest influence from one another. (AP) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, November 17: A one-and-half-month-old infant, kidnapped from the Safdarjung Hospital in the national capital, was rescued from Uttar Pradesh's Shahjahanpur railway station while two suspects in the case were apprehended, police said on Sunday. The rescue operation was carried out by the Delhi Police in collaboration with the Government Railway Police (GRP) and the Railway Protection Force (RPF). Delhi Shocker: 28-Year-Old Man Killed After His Uncle Confronts 2 Brothers for Harassing Girl in Sunder Nagari, Accused Arrested. Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (southwest) Akanksha Yadav said, "The complainant woman was at the Safdarjung Hospital on November 15 for kidney treatment of her husband when a woman engaged her in conversation, gained her trust and eventually took the child in her arms." The woman then fled with a man in an auto-rickshaw, the officer said. Police said an FIR was filed immediately at the Safdarjung Enclave Police Station and the investigation was taken up under the supervision of ACP Ranbir Singh. Delhi Shocker: Man Arrested for Killing Neighbour for Intervening in Domestic Dispute With Wife. "Teams were formed and sent to monitor all major bus stands and railway stations in Delhi-NCR," Additional DCP Yadav said. After analysing CCTV footage from Safdarjung Hospital, the woman was identified and tracked to the Anand Vihar Railway Station where the two suspects boarded the Bareilly-bound Sadbhavana Express, she said. "Although the suspects were in disguise, they were apprehended and the baby was rescued. The two accused were identified as Mahi Singh (24) and Rohit Kumar (32) both from Uttar Pradesh," the police officer said, adding the infant was reunited with the family. Imphal, November 16: Mobs attacked the residences of at least three ministers and six MLAs, mostly of the ruling BJP, on Saturday after the recovery of the bodies of six missing women and children in violence-hit Jiribam district, officials said. Police said that the mobs comprising men and women attacked the residences of ministers Sapam Ranjan Singh, Leishangthem Susindro Meitei and Yumnam Khemchand Singh in different places. The mob also attacked the houses of six legislators, including that of Rajkumar Imo Singh, who is Chief Minister N Biren Singh's son-in-law. A large number of protestors gathered in front of the houses of many other ministers, legislators and political leaders in Imphal East and Imphal West districts. One vehicle parked outside an MLA's residence in Imphal was also torched. Mob also gathered the houses of Janata Dal (United) MLA T Arun of Wangkhei constituency and BJP legislator Karam Shyam of Langthabal. The security forces fired tear gas shells to disperse protesters in different parts of Imphal city and its outskirts. Manipur: Police Fire Tear Gas Shells To Disperse Mob As Protestors Try To Storm Into CM N Biren Singh's Personal Residence Amid Death of 6 Hostages. The widespread attacks, road blockades and protest demonstrations started after the news of the recovery of the bodies of six missing women and children in the violence-hit Jiribam district. The bodies, which are not yet identified by the family members, are believed to be of the six women and children missing since November 11 in Jiribam district. The bodies, found on Friday and Saturday, were brought to the Silchar Medical College and Hospital for post-mortem examinations. The dead bodies were found near the confluence of the Jiri and Barak rivers along the Manipur-Assam border on Friday evening and on Saturday. As the widespread attacks and protests started, the concerned district authorities imposed a curfew for an indefinite period in Imphal East, West, Bishnupur, Thoubal and Kakching districts of Imphal valley "due to developing law and order situation". Manipur Unrest: Widespread Mob Violence Reported, Curfew Imposed, Mobile Internet Suspended After Recovery of Bodies of 6 Missing Women and Children in Jiribam. Chief Secretary Vineet Joshi in an order suspended the mobile internet and data services in seven districts -- Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Kangpokpi, and Churachandpur -- for two days from Saturday evening. A large number of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF), other paramilitary forces, and state police personnel have been deployed in all the places where fresh troubles broke out in different places of Manipur Valley districts after the news of the recovery of six bodies in Jiribam district, a police official said. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 17, 2024 07:34 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Imphal, November 17: The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), an apex body of the Meitei community, has given a 24-hour ultimatum to the Centre and the state government of 24 hours to take "decisive action" against armed groups or face public anger as violent protests continued in the Valley districts and the houses of several ministers and MLAs were attacked by mobs. COCOMI Spokesperson Khuraijam Athouba urged all the 50 MLAs (excluding 10 tribal legislators), comprising ruling and opposition parties to sit together and take decisive action against the armed groups and to resolve the ethnic crisis. Protest in Manipur: Women Vendors Rally Amid Rising Tensions Following Kidnapping of 6 and Discovery of 3 Bodies (Watch Video). "All the MLAs and other leaders must sit together to take decisive actions to resolve the present crisis at the earliest. If they do not take any decisive actions up to the satisfaction of the people of the state, then the government will bear the brunt of the peoples discontent and anger," Athouba told the media. Manipur: Bodies of 8-Month-Old Boy, 2 Others Found Floating in Barak River, Curfew Imposed in 5 Districts as Violent Protests Erupt (Watch Videos). "Urgent military crackdown is necessary against the militants and all the armed groups, the COCOMI leader said. Strongly opposing the promulgation of the Armed Forces (Special Power) Act, 1958 in six police stations in five districts last week, he said that the Ministry of Home Affairs unilaterally imposed the AFSPA against the will of the people of the state even as there are no major incidents of violence in most of the six police stations. Meanwhile, 13 civil society organisations, which observed a 24-hour shutdown in six Imphal Valley districts last week to protest the reported "abduction" of six people, belonging to the Meitei community, have called for the resignations of all 50 MLAs in Manipur, including Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, citing a lack of political will and warning of a potential public uprising. Various other organisations and local clubs also issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the MLAs demanding they make a public statement on the ongoing turmoil in Manipur. Meanwhile, mobs set fire to the residences of PWD Minister Govindas Konthoujam at Ningthoukhong and four more legislators - three more of the BJP and one of the Congress - in various districts of the Manipur Valley since Saturday night while the security forces foiled several other attempts, including on the ancestral residence of the Chief Minister at Luwangshangbam in Imphal East district. The MLAs and their family members were not at home when the mobs including women attacked or tried to attack their residences. However, the mobs vandalised vehicles and properties and set two houses on fire. Assam Rifles, the BSF, and state forces, including commandos, fired several rounds of tear gas shells, and rubber bullets to disperse the protesters. injuring more than 15 people. Protesters also burnt tyres on the main roads in the capital city and piled up various materials and heavy iron rods to prevent vehicular movement. Mobs had attacked the residences of at least three ministers and six MLAs, mostly of the ruling BJP, on Saturday after the recovery of the bodies of six missing women and children in the violence-hit Jiribam district. Police said that the mobs comprising men and women attacked the residences of ministers Sapam Ranjan Singh, Leishangthem Susindro Meitei and Yumnam Khemchand Singh in different places. The mob also attacked the houses of six legislators, including that of Rajkumar Imo Singh, who is Chief Minister N Biren Singh's son-in-law. The six bodies, which are not yet identified by the family members, are believed to be of the six women and children missing since November 11 in Jiribam district. The bodies, found on Friday and Saturday near the confluence of the Jiri and Barak rivers along the Manipur-Assam border, were brought to the Silchar Medical College and Hospital in Assam for post-mortem examinations. As the widespread attacks and protests started, authorities imposed a curfew for an indefinite period in Imphal East, West, Bishnupur, Thoubal and Kakching districts of Imphal valley "due to developing law and order situation". Chief Secretary Vineet Joshi ordered the suspension of mobile internet and data services in seven districts -- Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Kangpokpi, and Churachandpur -- for two days from Saturday evening. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Saturday directed all the security forces to take the necessary steps to restore order and peace and take strict action against anyone trying to indulge in violent and disruptive activities. An MHA statement said that the security scenario in Manipur has remained fragile for the past few days."Armed miscreants from both communities in conflict have been indulging in violence leading to unfortunate loss of lives and disruption in public order," it said. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 17, 2024 02:27 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). International Students Day 2024 is on November 17. This annual commemoration is marked to celebrate students and the power they hold to change the world. The celebration of International Students Day is a common observance in universities across the world. From special campaigns and celebrations to student meetups and online activations, there are various ways that International Students Day is celebrated. As we mark International Students Day 2024, here is everything you need to know about this day, how to celebrate this day, International Students Day 2024 theme and more. International Students Day 2024 Wishes and Quotes: Share Messages, Heartwarming Greetings, Images and HD Wallpapers To Celebrate the Day Dedicated to Students. International Students Day 2024 Date and History International Students Day 2024 is on November 17. The annual celebration of Students Day falls on November 17 to commemorate the Czech universities which were stormed by Nazis in 1939 and the students who were subsequently killed and sent to concentration camps. However, over the years, the celebration has taken a more non-political and cultural role. November 2024 Festivals, Events and Holidays Calendar: Complete List of Important National and International Days and Dates. International Students Day 2024 Theme and Significance The celebration of International Students Day is celebrated around an overarching theme to allow people to have more targeted conversations around the challenges that students worldwide are facing. International Students Day 2024 theme is "Empowering Students to be Agents of Change. The observance aims to focus on the power that students truly hold and how they can bring change in the world by dipping into active roles in every avenue. This theme is especially relevant in the current day and age where students have been the trailblazers raising awareness about key world issues and trying to deconstruct the ways that the systemic issues can be tackled. We hope that this International Students Day, you do your bit to help lend an ear to what the students in your areas have to say and help spread their voice. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 17, 2024 11:45 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 17. As part of COP29 in Baku, Trend News Agency proudly presents COP for Hope, a special project offering an unparalleled platform to hear from world leaders and trailblazers in politics, economics, science, and ecology, all united by a shared commitment to addressing todays pressing climate challenges. Today's interview features Heydar Reza Khan, a member of the Pakistani delegation. In an interview with Trend, Khan expressed optimism about the comprehensive and timely implementation of the Paris Agreement's provisions. He highlighted the significance of agreements reached in Baku on climate financing, hoping they would be realized soon. "We expect participating countries to adhere firmly to their commitments. Azerbaijan has organized COP29 at the highest level. I must specifically commend the volunteers; their skill in guiding participants using gestures and expressions is truly impressive. Baku is a stunningly beautiful place. The genuine smiles and hospitality make me feel incredibly happy here. The local people are very kind and welcoming, and the cuisine is exceptional. You have an incredibly rich and delicious food culture," Khan said. The 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), which will run until November 22, opened at the Baku Olympic Stadium on November 11. The event is the largest organized by Azerbaijan to date and is the first time the region has hosted the event in Azerbaijan. Within COP29, the highest level event - the summit of world leaders on climate action - was held on November 1213. The main expectation from COP29 is to agree on a fair and ambitious New Collective Quantitative Goal (NCQG) on climate finance. The COP29 chairmanship has launched 14 initiatives that include linkages between climate action and the Sustainable Development Goals, including green energy corridors, green energy storage, harmony for climate resilience, clean hydrogen, methane reduction in organic waste, action on green digital technologies, and other topics. In addition to being a top priority that creates the conditions for action, creating climate finance will also help fulfill the 1.5C pledge by bringing everyone together. The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change is an agreement signed at the Rio Earth Summit in June 1992 to prevent dangerous human interference in the climate system. The acronym COP (Conference of Parties) stands for Conference of Parties and is the highest legislative body overseeing the implementation of the Framework Convention on Climate Change. A total of 198 countries are parties to the Convention. Unless otherwise decided by the parties, COP is held annually. The first COP event was held in March 1995 in Berlin, and its secretariat is located in Bonn. In the tragic fire at Jhansi's Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College, Yakub Mansuri (Yakoob Mansuri) risked his life to save infants. Despite his heroic efforts, he lost his own twin daughters in the blaze. Beirut, November 17: Eleven people were killed, and 11 others injured in Israeli airstrikes on southern and eastern Lebanon, media reported. According to the official National News Agency (NNA) on Saturday, six people from the same family were killed, and 11 others were injured in an Israeli raid on a house in the village of Khreibeh in the eastern Baalbek-Hermel Governorate. In addition, five employees of the Nabatieh municipality were also killed in an Israeli raid that targeted a municipal warehouse, the report said. Military sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Israeli warplanes and drones carried out about 90 raids on Saturday on villages and towns in southern and eastern Lebanon, and Israeli artillery bombarded 16 villages and towns with about 75 shells. 7 Deaths, 65 Wounded in Israeli Airstrikes on Lebanon in 24 Hours. In separate statements on Saturday, Hezbollah announced that it destroyed an Israeli Merkava tank with a guided missile in the village of Chamaa, southern Lebanon, which led to casualties among its crew, Xinhua news agency reported. The group added that it targeted with missiles gatherings of Israeli soldiers and vehicles that infiltrated towns in the border area in southern Lebanon, and targeted with rockets several Israeli sites and gatherings in northern Israel, including those in the cities of Acre, Haifa, Safed, and Kiryat Shmona. Israeli Troops Reach Deepest Point in Lebanon Since October 1 Invasion, Lebanese Media Say. Since September 23, the Israeli army has intensified its air attack on Lebanon in an escalation of conflict with Hezbollah. Israel further initiated a ground operation across its northern border into Lebanon in early October. According to the Lebanese Health Ministry, the death toll from Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon since the beginning of the war on October 8, 2023, reached 3,452, and injuries went up to 14,664. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 17, 2024 07:56 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Brian Bowes St Brigids side etched their names into the history books, clinching their first-ever Leinster title with a narrow one-point win over Naas in Tullamore on Sunday afternoon. Its absolutely huge, I don't even know what to say anymore. The county final was a dream, and this was always too, Bowe said, overwhelmed by the victory. When we won the county final, this was the dream, the bigger dream to win this, and it's unbelievable, over the moon. Reflecting on the fiercely contested final, Bowe credited the depth of his squad for the historic achievement against a formidable Naas team. Every girl from 1 to 15, to the five that came on, we said it after the county finalthey're just an unbelievable bunch, Bowe praised. I don't think there are any other words for them anymore. We knew Naas were going to come here, we knew we were going to have to take all that pressure in the first half. We sucked it up and in the second half the girls really showed what they're made of. Absolutely unbelievable effort to pull it out of the hat there. Naas are a very, very good side; they were never going to be beaten easy here today. St Brigids Camogie Club, a blend of four different communities, has formed a united and tight-knit team. Bowe marveled at the bond between the girls despite their different backgrounds. The girls are just brilliant. Even when I came in this year, they're just such a united club, he explained. To have four clubs so together is just unbelievable; they're all best friends. They just do everything together. I don't even know if they have any friends outside of the camogie, because they're just such a together bunch. The last two weeks we've just completely focused on making history here today, and they've done it now, we're delighted. With an All-Ireland semi-final on the horizon, Bowe is confident that his team has what it takes to go further. Everyone wants to dream bigger, don't they? And now it's in front of us, why not go for it, Bowe said. All we have to do now is go for it, and with this bunch of girls, anything is possible. The challenge ahead is significant, with St Brigids set to face reigning All-Ireland champions Clanmaurice from Kerry in Tipperary in two weeks' time. Bowe has already done his homework on their next opponents. We have the Kerry champions in two weeks in Tipperary, he noted. I went to watch the Munster final last week to do a bit of reconnaissance just in case we got through here today. We'll have our work cut out for us, but as I said already, these girls are up for any battle. Before signing off, Bowe took a moment to recognise the commitment of his backroom team, who have been an invaluable support since he took over as manager in February. Pat (Delaney) is the girls' number one; no ones going to take that spot off Pat, Bowe said with a smile. Then we have Mick, Joe, and Mary, they've been there the last three years. Since I came back in February, they've been a huge help to me. They've given up their last three years for these girls; no one thinks any more of these girls than them. Fine Gael has said that party leader Simon Harris did not receive an invitation to take part in a leaders debate with Sky News ahead of the General Election. It comes after Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald accused Mr Harris of refusing to take part in a proposed debate. Posting on social media, Ms McDonald said Mr Harris was hiding and claimed he does not like to be challenged on his record. However, a spokesman for Fine Gael said Mr Harris did not receive an invitation to take part in a Sky News and Today FM debate. BREAKING: Simon Harris is refusing to take part in the proposed Today FM/Sky News Leaders debate. He wont have this debate with me. He is hiding from answering for Fine Gael's disastrous performance in government over 14 years. Simon Harris has no new ideas, no new plans and Mary Lou McDonald (@MaryLouMcDonald) November 16, 2024 Sources said that while talks were continuing about the possibility of a debate taking place, no formal invitations were issued. A spokesman for the party said: Fine Gael did not receive an invitation from Sky News for a debate. The Taoiseach looks forward to debating Mary Lou McDonald and other leaders on Monday and the following Tuesday. Today FM radio host Matt Cooper posted on Twitter: To clarify: Sky News and (Today FM) has put forward a proposal for a simulcast radio and tv debate next Friday. I remain hopeful that Simon Harris might be able to find time in his schedule. It is understood that Fianna Fail has agreed in principle to take part in the debate. Ms McDonald posted on Twitter: Simon Harris is refusing to take part in the proposed Today FM/Sky News leaders debate. He wont have this debate with me. He is hiding from answering for Fine Gaels disastrous performance in government over 14 years. Simon Harris has no new ideas, no new plans and doesnt like being challenged on his record. Party leaders will take part in two live debates in the coming weeks. All 10 political party leaders have been invited to take part in a debate on Monday, while a second debate between Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and Sinn Fein will take place on November 26. Sky News has been contacted for comment. Fine Gael and Labour have launched their own General Election manifestos, with pledges made around tax cuts, housing, health and baby savings accounts. Fine Gael launched its manifesto on Sunday afternoon, pledging to cut taxes by 7 billion euro and the establishment of a savings account for every newborn in Ireland, which will have a state contribution of 1,000 euro. As part of its manifesto, Labour said parents would be able to take a full year of parental leave, as well as introducing pay-related maternity benefit. It has proposed that mothers on maternity leave will receive social welfare benefits related to their pay rather than a weekly flat rate, and they have also pledged a public sector childcare scheme. Labour want to build a better Ireland, together. We will build affordable homes, end the scourge of low pay and protect welfare from inflation. We will ensure that every child has a school place and the care they need. Let's #BuildBetterTogether. https://t.co/RdcLjdPEEL pic.twitter.com/BWtQtJffxl The Labour Party (@labour) November 17, 2024 The Building Better Together manifesto sets six core missions on housing, work, climate, the cost of living, health, and a charter for childrens rights. Meanwhile, Fianna Fail and Fine Gaels daily mud-throwing continued, with Minister for Finance Jack Chambers raising concerns about his coalition partners General Election manifesto. The Fianna Fail politician claimed it does not allow for public sector pay increases or higher employment in the healthcare sector. Mr Chambers said there are significant promises on so many measures in the lengthy document. He said that his first analysis of its measures suggests it has not accounted for a new public sector pay deal. Mr Chambers claimed it proposes to underfund the public sector pay deal, impacting over 400,000 workers across the country and also claimed its health proposals would lead to a five-year restriction on health posts. They need to be clarified with public servants about whether there is going to be a pay freeze under their proposals over the next number of years, or whether theyre going to fund a proper public sector pay deal to support public servants and public services across the economy, Mr Chambers added. A Sinn Fein led Government will put money back in peoples pockets. We will not hike up prices again and again and again. If you want cheaper petrol and diesel prices you have to vote for Sinn Fein. We will reverse the last two increases to tax on fuel which were imposed by pic.twitter.com/T2rD9HJcmw Mary Lou McDonald (@MaryLouMcDonald) November 17, 2024 He also stated that he has concerns on how Fine Gael has appeared not to have accounted for the need for increased recruitment in the health service. We need to support public services and grow recruitment in our health service, and that doesnt appear to be reflected in the document published by Fine Gael today, he added. We cannot have a recruitment embargo in out health service and Id have concerns from an initial reading of the Fine Gael document on health service recruitment in particular, he said. Meanwhile, the Sinn Fein leader has pledged to cut the price of petrol and diesel over the next five years. Mary Lou McDonald said that Ireland has the highest taxes in Europe on petrol and diesel. Since 2020, Fianna Fail and Fine Gael have added 12 euros to a tank of fuel, and they have committed to increase it again by a further 7 euros a tank over the next five years, she said at an event in Dublin on Sunday. That is 12 cents on every litre of fuel. We in Sinn Fein are going to stop that. A Sinn Fein-led government will cut the price of petrol and diesel to help workers and families who are still struggling with the cost of living, and this will be a permanent reduction over the lifetime of the next government. This will save drivers an average of 7 euros on every tank of petrol. In order to give people immediate relief, we will also reverse the August and October increases, which added six cents to petrol and five-and-a-half cents to diesel. We will also offset the toll increases due to come into effect on the first of January, at a cost of 8 million euros. The cost-of-living crisis isnt over. When they arrived in southwest France in 2018, Kildare man Charlie Ganley and his partner, Olive Towey from Navan instantly fell in love with the Charente region and saw an opportunity to create something special amongst the rolling vineyards and ancient villages, renowned for their wines and world-famous Cognac. Its a far cry from Naas where Charlie lived and ran a plumbing and property maintenance business, but the couple feel their Leinster roots and their new Cognac home have a lot in common from the strong sense of family, the warmth and welcome of the people to a deep rootedness in the land all attributes at the heart of Olive and Charlies new life in France. With a natural affinity for the internationally recognized excellence of Irish hospitality, the couple have created Ceangal (the Irish word for Connect), a business rooted in their Irish heritage which facilitates cultural getaways for lovers of all things French. Ceangal curates and hosts wellbeing experiences around the themes of cuisine, art, yoga and mindfulness across an array of stunning French properties situated between Bordeaux and Cognac. Coupled with our skilled and passionate team of mindfulness, art, and cookery experts, this fusion of Irish warmth, French charm and passionate instructors creates a truly magical environment for guests and an exceptional experience to nourish body, mind and soul, they say. The couple point out that each experience is designed to foster connection, healing, and personal development; and the retreats are run in English to ensure ease and immersion for all their guests, including singles, couples, family and friend groups. While Ceangal is situated in the heart of France, the founders Irish background plays a vital role in shaping the atmosphere and approach of every retreat. Olive and Charlie are proud to incorporate elements of Irish culture and traditions into their programs, creating a unique blend of experiences that celebrate their Irish roots while embracing the beauty of their French surroundings. The couple are also proud to have built strong links with local collaborators in both countries and when back in Ireland over the summer organised a French Afternoon Tea and a French Soiree, including original Cognac-based wines and cocktails hailing from local partner-producers Le Maine Giraud in the Charentes-Cognac region. Going from strength to strength, they say Ceangal continues to forge close relationships and enrich their partner portfolio across both Ireland and France to deliver exceptional artisanal retreat experiences for guests, collaborating with Le Maine Giraud, LAncienne Distillerie, Mna na hEireann, Irish in France, Bordeaux Womens Club, Irish Entrepreneuses and local cultural associations in each country. To find out more about this couples French adventure log on to www.ceangal.eu or www.ceangal.eu/booking/french- food-wine-tasting-experience/ Check out ceangal on social media. Xi makes key proposals for jointly promoting Asia-Pacific development Xinhua) 08:12, November 17, 2024 Chinese President Xi Jinping delivers an important speech under the title "Shouldering Responsibility to Our Times And Jointly Promoting Asia-Pacific Development" at the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting at the Lima Convention Center in Lima, Peru, Nov. 16, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi) LIMA, Nov. 16 (Xinhua) -- Addressing the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting on Saturday, Chinese President Xi Jinping called for shouldering responsibility to the times and jointly promoting the development of the Asia-Pacific region. Noting that Asia-Pacific cooperation is confronted with challenges such as rising tendencies of geopolitics, unilateralism and protectionism, Xi said that at this historic crossroads, Asia-Pacific countries carry greater responsibilities on their shoulders. Xi proposed building an open and interconnected paradigm for Asia-Pacific cooperation, calling for tearing down the walls impeding the flow of trade, investment, technology and services. "We should stay committed to multilateralism and an open economy, firmly uphold the multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization at its core, fully reactivate APEC's role as an incubator of global economic and trade rules, and advance regional economic integration and connectivity," he said. He further called for making green innovation a catalyst for the Asia-Pacific, adding that China is developing new quality productive forces in light of actual conditions and deepening cooperation with interested parties on green innovation. "We need to firmly seize the opportunities presented by the new round of sci-tech revolution and industrial transformation, and strengthen exchanges and cooperation in artificial intelligence, quantum information, life and health, and other frontier areas," he added. China will launch a Global Cross-Border Data Flow Cooperation Initiative, and seek deeper cooperation with other parties to promote efficient, convenient and secure cross-border data flows, he added. The Chinese president also proposed upholding a universally beneficial and inclusive vision for Asia-Pacific development. "We should make good use of the APEC platform to strengthen economic and technical cooperation. We should increase support for developing economies and disadvantaged groups, and work together to grow the pie and distribute it equitably to allow more economies and people to benefit from development," he said. China's further development will provide new opportunities for the Asia-Pacific region and the world at large, said Xi, adding that China welcomes all parties to continue riding the "express train" of its development and grow together with the Chinese economy. Chinese President Xi Jinping and other leaders and representatives from APEC member economies pose for a group photo in Lima, Peru, Nov. 16, 2024. Xi on Saturday delivered an important speech at the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting under the title "Shouldering Responsibility to Our Times And Jointly Promoting Asia-Pacific Development." (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen) Chinese President Xi Jinping delivers an important speech under the title "Shouldering Responsibility to Our Times And Jointly Promoting Asia-Pacific Development" at the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting at the Lima Convention Center in Lima, Peru, Nov. 16, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi) Chinese President Xi Jinping is warmly received by Peruvian President Dina Boluarte when he arrives for the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting at the Lima Convention Center in Lima, Peru, Nov. 16, 2024. Xi on Saturday delivered an important speech at the meeting under the title "Shouldering Responsibility to Our Times And Jointly Promoting Asia-Pacific Development." (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen) (Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Zhong Wenxing) BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 17. Azerbaijan has been experiencing an unprecedented surge in flood incidents in recent years, said Umayra Tagiyeva, Deputy Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, Trend reports. Speaking at a high-level event on Strengthening Climate Information and Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems for Increased Resilience" as part of COP29 in Baku, Tagiyeva noted the latest data. "Last year, we recorded 147 flood cases, while this year, the number has already reached 109. The latest reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change indicate an increase in the frequency and duration of heatwaves. In Azerbaijan, heatwaves have also become more common. Collaborative research involving the Geography Institute of the Ministry of Science and Education, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources has led to the development of new products, specifically medical-meteorological forecasts and warnings," she said. These forecasts are designed not only for individuals sensitive to weather changes, such as those with cardiovascular diseases, but also for the general public. "Early warnings about upcoming heatwaves during hot periods have significantly reduced the number of emergency calls related to heat and sunstrokes. Despite the increase in hot days, public awareness campaigns have led to a noticeable decrease in emergency medical assistance requests compared to previous years," Tagiyeva added. The 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), which will run until November 22, opened at the Baku Olympic Stadium on November 11. The event is the largest organized by Azerbaijan to date and is the first time the region has hosted the event in Azerbaijan. Within COP29, the highest level event - the summit of world leaders on climate action - was held on November 1213. The main expectation from COP29 is to agree on a fair and ambitious New Collective Quantitative Goal (NCQG) on climate finance. The COP29 chairmanship has launched 14 initiatives that include linkages between climate action and the Sustainable Development Goals, including green energy corridors, green energy storage, harmony for climate resilience, clean hydrogen, methane reduction in organic waste, action on green digital technologies, and other topics. In addition to being a top priority that creates the conditions for action, creating climate finance will also help fulfill the 1.5C pledge by bringing everyone together. The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change is an agreement signed at the Rio Earth Summit in June 1992 to prevent dangerous human interference in the climate system. The acronym COP (Conference of Parties) stands for Conference of Parties and is the highest legislative body overseeing the implementation of the Framework Convention on Climate Change. A total of 198 countries are parties to the Convention. Unless otherwise decided by the parties, COP is held annually. The first COP event was held in March 1995 in Berlin, and its secretariat is located in Bonn. CLASS Medical, which specialises in providing safety solutions to the catheter medical device, has landed a distribution deal with a firm in Australia. Based at Annacotty Business Park, the company has entered into an agreement with m|devices, which designs, manufactures and distributes medical devices in Australia. As a result of this tie-up, m|devices will distribute Class Medicals flagship product, the Trans Urethral Catheter Safety Valve across the Australian healthcare market. READ MORE: Limerick students queuing to celebrate annual 'Christmas Day' event in low temperatures This product is designed to stop injuries to people who may be using a catheter if they are struggling to pass urine naturally. Kevin O'Shiel, the chief executive of Class Medical, expressed his excitement about this milestone. We are thrilled to partner with m|devices, a respected leader in the Australian medical devices market. This agreement marks a significant step in our international expansion, as we work to bring our clinically proven technology to clinicians and patients worldwide. With this partnership, we can improve patient outcomes and deliver substantial cost savings to healthcare systems in Australia, he said. M|Devices chief executive Sam Chaisumdet added: We are proud to collaborate with Class Medical to introduce their innovative catheter safety valve to the Australian market. The product perfectly complements our well-established continence care solutions by addressing a critical need in healthcare, and we are confident it will make a real difference in reducing catheter-related injuries. In 2018, Class Medical were one of the Munster final, of the InterTradeIreland Seedcorn Competition, winners. FORMER Dragon's Den star and leading business broadcaster Richard Curran led an entrepreneurial workshop in Limerick this week. Local Enterprise Office Limerick invited entrepreneurs and business owners to the event at the Castletroy Park Hotel on Tuesday, November 12, 2024. Well-known for his role as the host of RTE Radio One's The Business and a former presenter of Ireland's Dragon's Den, Richard shared his insights into the world of entrepreneurship. READ MORE: Comedian Ed Byrne brings stand up show to Limerick theatre Attendees learned from Mr Currans experience as he led a panel discussion featuring successful local business owners Gordon Shine of Shines Agri, Adare, Leonie Lynch of Juspy, based in the city centre and David Jeffreys, the former chief executive of technology firm Action Point, which was based in Plassey. Pictured above: Helen Ryan, Lorraine Conway, Siobhan Quinn, Alyson Hannon, Aideen Corry and Mike Cantwell of LEO Limerick. The panel focused on topics such as export strategies, business development, and opportunities for expansion in Limerick and the Midwest region. Mr Curran said the event "is all about encouraging small businesses to think about getting bigger." "How they can get bigger and also to look at things like exporting and to look at sustainability? It's really an information-gathering exercise for client companies that want to come along. They can discover what supports are there from energy efficiency to help with building an export market and getting market information if you want to think about that," he added. SWIMMERS in Limerick are asked to brave the cold waters for Focus Ireland this November. The annual Take the Plunge event in aid of Focus Ireland is coming to Limerick on Sunday, November 24. The people of Limerick are invited to brave the cold waters of Kilteery Pier, Co Limerick on that day. All funds raised will directly support Focus Irelands work to combat homelessness. READ MORE: Free online guide to occupational therapy launched for people in mental health recovery North west regional fundraiser Monica McElhinney said: Take the Plunge is a powerful way for communities to come together, support each other, and raise awareness about the urgent issue of homelessness in Ireland. Every participant makes a real difference, helping us deliver life-changing services for people who need it most. Join us, brave the cold, and make waves for change. For those unable to join the main event sites, Focus Ireland encourages participants to Choose Your Own Location and take the plunge at a local beach or swimming spot. To add warmth to the experience, Take the Plunge sponsor Cully & Sully will provide some hot soup and swim hats to all registered swimmers across each event location. This years event is especially critical, as over 14,760 people, including 4,561 children, are currently experiencing homelessness in Ireland. Every euro raised brings Focus Ireland closer to the goal of ending homelessness in Ireland for good. GARDAI are investigating after major Irish financial company FDC Group, which has six offices in Limerick, was targeted by cyber criminals. The extent of the alleged hacking incident remains unknown. The Data Protection Commission and An Garda Siochana are investigating the breach. FDC Group has also notified the National Cyber Security Centre and engaged the support of Ekco Ltd - a security-first managed cloud provider. FDC Group, which has 48 offices nationwide, said that it was made aware of a data security incident involving a subset of our systems. It occurred on October 7. In a letter, seen by the Limerick Leader, sent out to its clients on October 23, FDC Group said they are still in the process of investigating the extent of the breach and determining what specific data may have been affected. We are not certain as to the extent of the incident or what data, if any, is impacted, however, as we continue our investigation, we wanted to share the following as an overview of the personal data we may process on your behalf. Included in the subsequent list were clients full names, dates of birth, PPS numbers, addresses and contact information, income and bank details, and photos from ID documentation. At this time, they say they do not have any evidence to suggest that your personal information was compromised as a result of this incident. However, out of an abundance of caution, we wanted to notify you of the potential breach and provide you with some information on how to protect yourself. READ MORE: All-Ireland winner 'crippled' in horrific collision in Limerick had to learn to walk again FDC Group advised its clients that, as a precautionary measure, they should monitor for any unusual activities associated with your personal data such as emails, calls or SMS messages and exercise caution when engaging with any such communication. The Leader was sent the letter by a reader. This just came out of the blue. In fairness to FDC Group they have been very open and transparent but it is worrying. They have a lot of very personal information about people, said the person, who wished to remain anonymous. The Data Protection Commission confirmed that it has received a breach notification from FDC Group, adding that the incident is currently under assessment. FDC Groups has offices in Kilmallock, Newcastle West, Foynes, OConnell Street in Limerick city, and two in Abbeyfeale. In response to a query from the Limerick Leader, a spokesperson for FDC Group said: The status of our investigation into the data security incident is ongoing. From an operational point of view, FDC's IT systems are fully functional, the statement continued, adding: as of the date of writing we have no evidence of any data being compromised but we will continue to monitor the situation. The spokesperson concluded by saying: We take the security and privacy of our client's information very seriously and we are committed to taking all necessary steps to investigate and address the situation. Fine Gael has scrapped plans to increase workers annual entitlement to paid sick leave and will retain it at five days, under its manifesto plans. It marks a U-turn in the partys policy pledges after its former leader Leo Varadkar previously said it will rise to 10 days sick leave in a year by 2026. The Sick Leave Act 2022 introduced a statutory right to paid sick leave for the first time and was to be phased in from 2023 to 2026. Employees are currently entitled to up to five days employer-paid sick leave in a year, paid at 70% of gross salary up to a cap of 110 euro per day. This was set to be increased to seven days next year and to 10 days in 2026. However, in its manifesto, entitled Securing Your Future, Fine Gael said it will retain sick leave at five days per year. It stated that any expansion will depend on further research and must be affordable for businesses. Taoiseach Simon Harris, who launched the manifesto at the Horse & Jockey Hotel in Co Tipperary on Sunday, said the decision was appropriate. Our proposal is to leave sick leave at five days. That is a change in approach, its a change in approach that Ive articulated, I think since I became party leader, its one that I think is appropriate, Mr Harris added. My party in this government introduced statutory sick and Im pleased that we did introduce that scheme. But we also have to make sure that we protect jobs and what we have said is well carry out an analysis in terms of economic impact before it moves further. At the moment, the plan is to leave it at the five days. I would also say this, Im very proud of the record that my party has in terms of supporting workers, because the most important way is for the workers getting the job. When my party came to government, there were 15% unemployment, and we now have full employment. Weve lowered the tax burden on all people, and weve made sure that thats done in a progressive manner. Weve increased the minimum wage. Were continuing to do other things that I think help people, whether its child benefit, whether its the child care changes. There does need to be a balanced approach. If you stand in any cafe or hotel or restaurant or shop across the country, the wave of measures that have come at them quickly in one go has had a real impact. Im proud that weve introduced sick leave but I also want to be honest in relation to what I believe is possible to do in terms of the number of days in the time ahead. The 115-page document also promises to give 1,000 euro to every baby born in Ireland, which would be lodged into a savings account. The child savings scheme, called the Acorn Savings Account, will see a savings account set up for every child in the country starting with a first payment of 1,000 euro. Every child from a family receiving child support payments will receive 1,500 euro. The savings account can be topped up until the child turns 18 by a maximum of 2,000 euro per year. Mr Harris acknowledged that children of parents who could afford to top up the savings account could, by the age of 18, have accrued a total 53,000 euro, whereas those who could not afford top ups, will have just 3,000 euro saved. I take the point to make about Acorn, and Ive tossed this around in my own head, but the genuine view I have on it is this, those who can afford to save, may already be saving, he added. What were actually trying to do here, though, is set up a state structure that will probably try and foster a culture of savings and preparing for the future right across our society. Weve made a positive policy decision to put more into the fund, at 50% more for children, most at risk. We have not said theres a minimum amount you can put in, so people can put in any amount, including a small amount, on birthdays, special occasions, relatives. Theres an ability to top it up in a way that works for you. He added: Were talking about setting aside money for our future, this is money that will be set aside for the future spending in the Irish economy as well. I think its a sensible idea. Thats why Im proposing it and its recognising and creating that financial literacy at the youngest age. (Future) Governments can consider as they as they go through, if they wish to top it up further. Theres no prohibition at all on a government of the day deciding the country is doing well and we wish to put a little bit more into peoples accounts. Meanwhile, Mr Harris also said his party will continue to canvass for John McGahon, despite photos showing injuries a man suffered following an altercation with the Louth candidate. Mr McGahon was found not guilty of assault in a criminal case two years ago, but a High Court civil action found him liable earlier this year. The man was awarded a sum of damages against Mr McGahon. Photos have been published in a Sunday newspaper showing the extent of facial injuries suffered by the man. Mr Harris said his party will continue to back Mr McGahon. These matters were all examined in a court of law. A jury sat in Louth. A jury looked at the CCTV, a jury looked at images. A defence was put forward, a defence of self-defence was put forward, and a jury found him not guilty, Mr Harris added. BHARAT DYNAMICS Q2 Results 2024:BHARAT DYNAMICS declared their Q2 results on 14 Nov, 2024, revealing a significant decline in profits and revenues compared to the same quarter last year. The company's profit fell by 16.7% year-over-year, amounting to 122.53 crore, while revenue also saw a decrease of 11.54%, totaling 544.77 crore. Despite the year-over-year decline, there was a noticeable improvement compared to the previous quarter, with revenue growing by an impressive 184.97% and profit increasing dramatically by 1597.98%. This indicates a strong recovery trend from the preceding quarter. The company's Selling, General & Administrative expenses saw a slight decline of 3.51% quarter-over-quarter but increased by 9.86% year-over-year. This reflects the ongoing challenges the company is facing in controlling costs amidst fluctuating revenues. Operating income showed a substantial increase of 219.38% compared to the previous quarter; however, it still fell by 30.39% year-over-year, suggesting that while the company is recovering from previous lows, it has not yet returned to its past performance levels. Earnings per Share (EPS) for Q2 stood at 3.34, which marked a significant drop of 58.41% year-over-year, further highlighting the challenges faced by BHARAT DYNAMICS in maintaining profitability. In terms of market performance, BHARAT DYNAMICS has experienced a decline of 8.13% in the last week and 4.37% over the past six months, although it has achieved a year-to-date return of 15.58%. The company's current market capitalization is 36,273.19 crore, with a 52-week high of 1794.7 and a low of 541.52. As of 17 Nov, 2024, analyst sentiment towards BHARAT DYNAMICS is mixed, with 2 analysts rating it as a Strong Sell, 3 as Buy, and 1 as Strong Buy. This reflects uncertainty about the company's future performance amidst its recent results. BHARAT DYNAMICS Financials Period Q2 Q1 Q-o-Q Growth Q2 Y-o-Y Growth Total Revenue 544.77 191.17 +184.97% 615.81 -11.54% Selling/ General/ Admin Expenses Total 141.92 147.09 -3.51% 129.19 +9.86% Depreciation/ Amortization 17.67 15.67 +12.78% 17.43 +1.37% Total Operating Expense 463.6 259.16 +78.88% 499.21 -7.13% Operating Income 81.17 -67.99 +219.38% 116.6 -30.39% Net Income Before Taxes 166.47 11.23 +1381.92% 194.12 -14.24% Net Income 122.53 7.22 +1597.98% 147.09 -16.7% Diluted Normalized EPS 3.34 0.2 +1570% 8.03 -58.41% Rajesh Exports Q2 Results 2024:Rajesh Exports declared their Q2 results on 14 Nov, 2024, marking a significant milestone with a topline increase of 75.81% year-over-year. The company reported a profit of 45.56 crore, reflecting a modest increase of 0.55% from the previous year, while total revenue reached 66,923.67 crore. In comparison to the previous quarter, Rajesh Exports demonstrated impressive growth, with revenue climbing by 10.88% and profit soaring by an astounding 284.22%. This growth trend highlights the company's robust operational performance in the current market. The company's selling, general, and administrative expenses also showed improvement, declining by 3.33% quarter-on-quarter and 5.97% year-on-year, indicating better cost management strategies. Furthermore, the operating income surged by 146.16% quarter-on-quarter and increased by 64.93% year-on-year, showcasing Rajesh Exports' ability to enhance profitability effectively. Earnings per share (EPS) for Q2 stood at 1.54, which reflects a 0.65% increase year-on-year, indicating a steady return for shareholders amidst the fluctuating market conditions. Despite the positive quarterly results, Rajesh Exports has faced challenges in the stock market, delivering a return of -11.06% in the last week, -21.67% in the last six months, and -35.75% year-to-date. Currently, Rajesh Exports has a market capitalization of 6,953.37 crore, with a 52-week high of 409 and a low of 232.6, illustrating the volatility in its stock performance. As of 17 Nov, 2024, out of one analyst covering the company, there is a unanimous 'Buy' rating, suggesting optimism about the company's future prospects. Rajesh Exports Financials Period Q2 Q1 Q-o-Q Growth Q2 Y-o-Y Growth Total Revenue 66923.67 60355.5 +10.88% 38065.9 +75.81% Selling/ General/ Admin Expenses Total 40.74 42.15 -3.33% 43.33 -5.97% Depreciation/ Amortization 11.5 10.89 +5.6% 10.68 +7.65% Total Operating Expense 66858.61 60329.07 +10.82% 38026.46 +75.82% Operating Income 65.06 26.43 +146.16% 39.45 +64.93% Net Income Before Taxes 54.37 17.39 +212.65% 52.97 +2.64% Net Income 45.56 11.86 +284.22% 45.31 +0.55% Diluted Normalized EPS 1.54 0.4 +285% 1.53 +0.65% Simplex Infrastructures Q2 Results 2024:Simplex Infrastructures declared their Q2 results on 14 Nov, 2024, reporting a concerning financial performance. The company witnessed a significant decline in topline revenue, which decreased by 14.21% year-over-year (YoY), amounting to 268.06 crore. The losses for the quarter also rose sharply, with a year-on-year increase of 49.1%, leading to a net loss of 10.78 crore. Compared to the previous quarter, revenue declined by 9.38%, and losses increased by 9.22%. On a positive note, the company managed to reduce its selling, general, and administrative expenses, which fell by 2.07% quarter-on-quarter and by 8.48% YoY. Additionally, the operating income saw a slight improvement, rising by 16.64% from the previous quarter, although it still marked a decrease of 6.77% YoY. Earnings per share (EPS) for Q2 stood at -1.88, reflecting a 48.03% decline compared to the same period last year. Despite these setbacks, Simplex Infrastructures has shown a notable recovery in its stock performance over the past six months, delivering a return of 93.52%, along with a year-to-date return of 218.59%. As of now, Simplex Infrastructures holds a market capitalization of 1459.14 crore, with shares trading between a 52-week high of 307.85 and a low of 70.35. However, in the past week, the stock has delivered a negative return of -11.04%, indicating potential volatility ahead. Simplex Infrastructures Financials Period Q2 Q1 Q-o-Q Growth Q2 Y-o-Y Growth Total Revenue 268.06 295.82 -9.38% 312.45 -14.21% Selling/ General/ Admin Expenses Total 26.55 27.11 -2.07% 29.01 -8.48% Depreciation/ Amortization 15.64 15.99 -2.19% 17.34 -9.8% Total Operating Expense 280.68 310.96 -9.74% 324.27 -13.44% Operating Income -12.62 -15.14 +16.64% -11.82 -6.77% Net Income Before Taxes -14.28 -10.41 -37.18% -10.97 -30.17% Net Income -10.78 -9.87 -9.22% -7.23 -49.1% Diluted Normalized EPS -1.88 -1.73 -8.67% -1.27 -48.03% At luxury hotspots across the country, early trends point to a revival of sales momentum in the second half of the fiscal year after a lukewarm first half. There is optimism that the ongoing festive season, including weddings, will make up for lost business after luxury sales slowed early this year compared to both 2022 and 2023, according to industry experts. The reasons were a mix of high summer temperatures, the general elections, and a general slowdown in the consumer shopping sentiment. Lets start with Delhi. Soon after opening for the day on a lazy Saturday afternoon in November, the Aquazzura store in the capitals The Chanakya Mall is seeing brisk sales even after several long weekends of festivities, including Diwali parties. Despite steep pricesAquazzura shoes retail from 60,000 to several lakhscustomers are making swift purchases through sales representatives on video calls, with deliveries being packed to send to their homes. The Italian womens footwear retailer, which famously dressed actor Meghan Markle for her wedding, had opened its doors earlier this month through local partner DS Group's luxury arm, DS Luxury. The same Saturday afternoon, Mint spots a customer buying at least four pairs of pants and jeans in size 34 from Italian luxury fashion brand Brunello Cucinelli. The 50-something customer is also mulling buying Cucinelli's latest, most sought-after item this seasona Nubuck shearling bomber jacket made of top-grain leather softer than suedepriced around 8 lakh. DLF-run The Chanakya Mall has recently seen the launches of new brands like menswear brand Golden Goose, clothing and accessory brand Amiri, and others as well, which has helped tremendously with footfalls. In September, Delhi's other luxury mall, DLF Emporio, hosted the treasury of trousseau shopping festival ahead of the wedding and Diwali season, which brought in sales in jewellery, couture and gifting. It was an impactful three days from 3-7 September. The first half of this year was tepid in terms of sales. While we expect this year to grow in double digits, the second half should be much better given the long wedding season ahead," said Pushpa Bector, senior executive director and business head of DLF Retail. Incentive for sales A delayed and long winter in the north may also add to sales in the second half for luxury, she added. Swing to the south of India, and the story is no differenthopes of winter and festival sales making up for slow sales earlier in the year. Overall leading up to the festive season wasnt the best because a lot of people were travelling out of India. But luxury has shown strong sales figures for UB City in October and has done well year-over-year," said Uzma Irfan, director of UB City and Prestige Group malls in Bengalurul, which house luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Rolex, Burberry, Canali, Jimmy Choo, Emporio Armani and others. Accessories, clothes for women, men, watches, and home as a category across luxury brands in general are doing well, Irfan said. Almost every day, we are getting a request for a Rolex watch. Luxury luggage, too, has seen strong growth," she added. Also read | Why handmade is the new luxury Mumbais Reliance-owned Jio World Plaza has also seen a host of new store openings including luxury accessory brand Valentino, a couture store by Manish Malhotra - both of which are run by Reliance Brands Luxury. It also saw the opening of luxury restaurant, Armani Caffe. Gaetan Guillosson, managing director of French luxury goods maker Cartiers India business, said it is a very good time to be present in the country. The product demand, both for our luxury watches and jewellery, has become better in the last two years," Guillosson said, pointing out that Cartier isnt competing with the dominant local jewellery makers but is looking at more niche jewellery purchases. On the other hand, we see that the demand for watches in India is now very mature. The consumers know exactly what they want," Guillosson told Mint. Historically, the company sold more watches in India than jewellery, but now the business mix is more balanced. This years highest selling jewellery items in India, according to Guillosson, are trinity bracelets with three types of metals starting around 1.5 lakh. In watches, it is The Ballon Bleu watches, which start at an average 15 lakh. Its other limited-edition watches, though, still have a long wait time due to the heightened global demand for special edition pieces. 1% of global sales According to data from the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry, from January to September this year, India imported watches worth Swiss Franc 188 million ( 1,790 crore) or about 1% of the entire global sales of Swiss watches, growing 22.5% over the same period last year. To be sure, part of this growth could also be because of currency fluctuations and the stability of the Swiss Franc against most other currencies around the world. Luxury watch retailer Kapoor Watch Co. is seeing similar growth with strong sales from September and October. The sales are strong but perhaps not at the same numbers as they were in 2022 or 2023," said Pratiek Kapoor, the company's director. The sweet spot for watches is 2-6 lakh or where the core business lies." Also read | Burberry is being wooed for its chequered past and bright future For Kapoor Watch Co., the shopping season is kicking in strongly now, with the expectation that there should be growth in the coming months of 2025, though at a more normalised level, similar to what it was pre-pandemic. The company has stores in north India and is preparing to open a store in Pune next. View Full Image Indian luxury watch retailer Kapoor Watch Co., is seeing a similar growth with strong sales from September and October. "The sales are strong but perhaps not at the same numbers as they were in 2022 or 2023, said Pratiek Kapoor, the company's director. The sweet spot for the watches are 2-6 lakh or where the core business lies," he said. Pinning hopes on a better 2025 China's economic slowdown is prompting premium global brands to shift focus to its southern neighbour, India, which boasts a growing base of 849,000 dollar millionaires, as per the UBS Global Wealth Report 2023. Irfan of Ub City in Bengaluru added that the expectation is that 2025 will be a better year for luxury retail as the country's luxury market -- albeit small -- is the fastest growing market in Asia, with continual expected growth. "Disposable income is increasing in India due to multiple contributing factors. The focus of the sector is shifting from merely selling products to crafting memorable in-store experiences. Luxury brands are prioritising exclusivity, offering bespoke experiences such as private events for top clients and early access to limited-edition products. Meanwhile, the growing awareness around sustainability is prompting brands to adopt more eco-conscious practices, aligning with the values of modern consumers," she added. Also read | Why Cartier and Jaeger-LeCoultre rule the world of rectangular watches Even for Kapoor Watch Co., the shopping season is kicking in strongly now so the expectation is that there should be growth in the coming months of 2025, though at a more normalised level, similar to what it was pre-pandemic. Deloitte India estimates that the countrys luxury goods market could soar to nearly $30 billion by 2030. Aquazzura too is mulling a second store in Mumbai in the coming years. Nerf guns. Monopoly board games. G.I. Joes. Some of Hasbros bestselling toys could get pricier if President-elect Donald Trump implements stiff tariffs on Chinese imports. One of Americas largest toy makers says it is negotiating with suppliers and considering design changes ahead of potential new levies. Weve been preparing for many months for any contingency," Chris Cocks, Hasbros chief executive, said in an interview. The threat of new taxes on toy imports comes amid a long-term shift in the industry away from China, spurred in part by rising labor costs in that country. Hasbro, Barbie-maker Mattel and others have spent years trying to make fewer toys and games in China by relocating to factories in other countries, including Vietnam and India. New levies might make that shift more of a necessity, but Hasbros efforts demonstrate that it could be difficult to speed up. Hasbros current target is for roughly 20% of its U.S. sales to come from China-made products within four years, down from about 40% today. The challenges the company has faced in achieving a long-held goal underline the pressure facing toy makers. View Full Image Graphic: WSJ Cocks, who became CEO in 2022, is taking up Hasbros decadelong goal of reducing the companys reliance on China. While lower-cost locations are easy to find, switching to a new factory with similar product-quality and safety standards can be a challenge in the toy industry, analysts say. Unlike in some industries, automation has yet to make major strides in parts of the toy-making process. Assembly for many toys still relies on skilled workers to put together the latest action figure or hand-paint details. Shifting to a different country requires training a new generation of craftspeople. Smaller factories in South and Southeast Asian countries also might not produce enough units to easily replace Chinese facilities, said UBS analyst Arpine Kocharian. Hasbro has an easier time relocating factories than the rest of the toy industry because the company outsources most of its production, Kocharian said. During the presidential campaign, Trump talked about placing tariffs of 60% or more on imports from China, up to 100% on some imports from Mexico, and 10% to 20% on all imports. Since winning, he has told allies his wants Robert Lighthizer, who helped implement his tariff policies in his first term, as the new administrations trade czar. There is still uncertainty around how the tariffs will apply to Hasbro and the toy industry. In the round of levies imposed during Trumps first presidency, toys and some other consumer goods were spared. Hasbros shift away from China is part of a $750 million cost-cutting push that includes negotiating lower prices from suppliers or changing designs to make them cheaper to build, such as Jenga blocks that now use a single type of wood. The change lowered costs and had the added benefit of making the pieces slide more smoothly out of a Jenga tower, Cocks said. In addition to supply-chain improvements, the company is cutting its head count. Layoffs announced late last year affected nearly 20% of its workforce, and the company has discontinued unprofitable or redundant toy variants. Hasbro executives say the company is on track to hit its cost-reduction targets and offset falling revenue amid an industrywide slump in toy sales. The companys share price has risen 25% this year. Role-playing games such as Dungeons & Dragons and the card game Magic: The Gathering have generated increasing sales and profit for Hasbro in recent years. Those products tend to come with higher profit margins for Hasbro, meaning it makes sense to produce them in the U.S. The company said in 2023 that Magic has become its first billion-dollar brand in terms of annual sales. Meanwhile, the Chinese government has been pushing for the country to graduate from being a hub for lower-cost work, such as toy making. Toy manufacturing is not a high priority, and a continued migration of these industries to South and Southeast Asia would not be viewed by the Chinese leadership as a major loss," said Stephen Olson, visiting fellow focusing on trade at the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies. The $64,000 question is what level any of Trumps tariffs are actually set athes indicated a fairly wide range in different comments, so its still a bit of an X-factor," Olson said. Write to Ben Glickman at ben.glickman@wsj.com and Natasha Khan at natasha.khan@wsj.com BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 17. A group of Azerbaijani non-governmental organizations (NGOs) staged a protest against the visit of the US Congressman Frank Pallone, who arrived in Azerbaijan on November 16, 2024, Trend reports. Pallone, known for his pro-Armenian views, as well as accusations of corruption and financial misconduct, faced calls for public apologies from the Azerbaijani people. Demonstrators directed an official statement to the Azerbaijani Minister of Internal Affairs, Vilayat Eyvazov, highlighting Pallones support for military criminals whose actions during the occupation of Karabakh led to severe environmental damage in the region. According to the protesters, Pallones invitation by the UN to participate in the global climate change conference, COP29, was a disgrace to the event. "During the protest, Frank Pallone ordered his security guards to attack us, yet he did not respond to our questions. His actions are filled with hatred towards the Azerbaijani people, and we deeply regret that the UN gave him a platform at COP29," the statement reads. The protesters also reported that Pallone's security guards used force, injuring several individuals. Azerbaijani law enforcement intervened to prevent further escalation. "We, as representatives of NGOs involved in the peaceful protest, demand a comprehensive investigation into the incident, including a review of photographic and video evidence, and urge the criminal prosecution of Frank Pallones security personnel," the protesters said. A decade ago, in June 2014, The Atlanti c published The Case for Reparations , Ta-Nehisi Coatess much-lauded essay about housing and financial discrimination against African Americans. During an event organised by the magazine at a Washington DC synagogue afterwards, a woman in the audience asked Coates a question about the essay: he had mentioned reparations paid by Germany to Israel after the Holocaust as a potential model for America, but what about the Palestinians whose oppression at the hands of Israel was ongoing (and moreover, aided and abetted by the US)? This encounter was the starting point of Coatess latest book of essays, The Message . In a recent interview to the New York Magazine , the author admitted that the question about Palestine had bothered him and he should have done better". With this book he does, in fact, do better. This carefully structured triptych of essays culminates in The Gigantic Dream, Coatess 70-page account of his trip to Palestine and Israel in May 2023. Blending reportage with elements of historiography, and on occasion, autobiography, the author makes a compelling case for Israel as a modern-day Jim Crow" state, rooted in colonial occupation and apartheid-like laws. This conclusion doesnt arrive in a vacuum; the connective tissue of the book is the theme of cathartic, discomfiting travels. In the opening essay, a visit to Dakar brings meditations on Coatess Senegalese ancestors and the spectre of Niggerology", a 19th-century strain of pseudo-historic literature deployed to justify slavery. The middle essay is set in South Carolina, where Coates meets a teacher who is fighting against a politically motivated ban on his 2015 book Between the World and Me. Along the way, Coates is subjected to increasingly elaborate American Civil War recreations mythologising the Confederate army (not to mention dozens of Confederate-soldier statues staring at him). It was not just the conscience of the enslaver that had to be soothed but multiple consciences beyond his: the slave drivers and slave breakers, slave hunters and slave ship captains, lords and congressmen, kings and queens, priests, presidents, and everyday people with no real love for the slave but with human eyes and human ears nonetheless," Coates writes in the first essay, describing the writings of 19th century Niggerologist" Josiah Nott. For such a grand system, a grand theory had to be crafted and an array of warrants produced, all of them rooted in a simple assertion of fact: The African was barely human at all." Notts writing was aimed at cleansing Ancient Egypt of any taint of Blackness", claiming that Black people in Egypt had only ever been captives and/or slaves, that the notion of a Black Pharaoh was laughable. If you replace African" with Arab" at the end, the paragraph cited works for 20th century propagandist works like Leon Uris novel Exodus (1958), a heavily fictionalised depiction of the foundation of Israel. Exodus presents Coates with the perfect opportunity to depict US and Israels collaboration in the political and cultural demonising of Palestinein the resultant Hollywood movie, released in 1960, the chiselled all-American hero Paul Newman is chased by a horde of barbaric, savage" Arabs. Like many autodidacts, Coates is an excellent teacher, methodical and thorough with a diverse array of cultural analyses (Shakespeare, Toni Morrison, the MC/rapper Rakim), punctuating every chapter, informing every argument. These essays are addressed to his creative writing students at Howard University, providing a genteel narratorial effect not unlike his second book Between the World and Me, which was addressed to his teenaged son. The chosen structure also serves a more obvious purposeto educate Americans about the reality of Israel from a place of professorial authority. Coates demonstrates how the US media and ruling class have been guilty of the elevation of factual complexity over self-evident morality". Its not just about lies and historical distortions, its also about the systematic suppression of Palestinian voices in mainstream literature and journalism. If youve read Palestinian writers Adania Shibli or Najwan Darwish, Coatess descriptions of Israeli checkpoints, anti-Palestinian laws and relentless, murderous raids by IDF soldiers will come across as trodden ground. This is where The Messages America-centrism becomes a weakness. To an extent, this can be excused because Coates is primarily trying to reach apathetic, propaganda-guzzling US readers, and because he is candid enough to admit this in the books concluding passages, asserting that Palestinians deserve to be known by stories woven by their own hands". View Full Image The Message: By Ta-Nehisi Coates, Penguin Random House, 256 pages, $30 (around 2,530). Take this passage where Coates is describing being stopped at a checkpoint for no reason by an Israeli soldier. A frustrating interrogation ensues, where the author is asked about his faith: If this had happened in America, I would have told you that the soldier who stopped me was Black, and I guess he was here too. In fact, there were Black soldiers everywhere lording their power over the Palestinians, many of whom would, in America, have been seen as white. Again I felt the mental lens curving against the light and was reminded of something I have long known, something Ive written and spoken about, but still was stunned to see here in such stark detail: that race is a species of power and nothing else. And I knew here, in this moment, how I would have fallen in the hierarchy of power if I had told that Black soldier that I was a Muslim." These are multi-modal observations about power structures, not merely individual acts of injustice. When Coates is comparing Israel and the US, he isnt placing Israelis as white" and Palestinians as Black"the paragraphs opening lines make that abundantly clear. This isnt an analytical frame with one-to-one correspondence; it is a comparison tailored to a specific audience. Its a subtle move and theres no way Coates could have sprung all this on American readers without first laying down the theoretical parallels between Americas Jim Crow era (when the Southern US had laws to segregate and limit freedom of Black people) and Israel in the preceding essays. Less than a month after 11 September 2001, Susan Sontag called the World Trade Center attacks a consequence of specific American alliances and actions" in The New Yorker. At the time, she was heavily criticised, even derided by a wide range of American publications. Today this episode is remembered as an example of fearless truth-telling. Something similar is happening with Coates right now. Wide swathes of nominally liberal US media is hopping mad because he has shown them the mirrorduring a recent, super-hostile CBS interview with Coates, anchor Tony Dokoupil equated the book to something found in a terrorists backpack". In time though, The Message will be remembered as a masterpiece, an anguished literary condemnation of an ongoing crime against humanity. Aditya Mani Jha is a writer based in Delhi. At home, on her bedside table, chef Radhika Khandelwal keeps a notebook to document her thoughts, with dishes sometimes appearing in dreams". She is the owner of the restaurant Fig & Maple in Delhi. The notebook, scribbled with copious notes, travels with her everywhere. In it, Khandelwal also jots down memories of her childhood: A visit to India Gate where I had kaala khatta as a child has, led me to create an elevated version of the flavour profile as a salad with amaranth leaves and jamun dressing." For her, introducing a new menu is akin to a home cleansing routine", wherein some old dishes move out to make way for the new. Menus are at the core of restaurants and upmarket cafes, and chefs work overtime to strategise. Mood boards and notebooks with travel inspiration, links to Instagram and websites, even Pantone colour trends, are fodder for ideas. Additionally, there are taste panels" in most restaurants with a select group of people, including food critics, senior employees, and some regular" guests, trying out new dishes. Sometimes, ingredients command what is servedlast year, almost all restaurants put millets on menus when Unesco declared it the International Year of the Millets. Though restaurants replace menus two-four times a year, small changes are made on a monthly basis. Restaurants also have a full calendar, complete with regional and global cuisine-inspired pop-ups, Michelin-star guest chef specials and other culinary events. Many times, these events lead some dishes to become a part of the main menu. Its called menu engineering," says chef Gagandeep Singh Bedi of Roseate, National Capital Region (NCR), adding, it is a method to strategically create dishes that can be popularised with patrons." At Roseate, the food calendar" is prepared six-eight months in advance with celebrity chefs, pop-ups and other culinary events for patrons. Its Sunday brunch, which changes every week is especially popular. Bedi narrates an incident of a family, having enjoyed Roseates Patiala special, returning only to find a south Indian special. They sulked but we got them some items specially made from the kitchen," says Bedi, adding that patrons should ask restaurants for what he calls, a hidden menu" where some of the dishes, if not all, can be prepared in the kitchen on special request. At House of Ming in Taj Mahal, Delhi, a new menu was introduced less than three months ago with a nod to Sichuan, Cantonese and Hunan cuisines. The new menu honours traditional Chinese techniques while introducing an element of surprise with the use of unexpected ingredients like truffle, caviar, and even Brussels sprouts," says chef Arun Sundararaj of The Indian Hotels Co. Ltd, the parent company of the hotel. The menu change had been in the works for over a year, he adds. Feedback forms, given at the end of meals to patrons, are meticulously collated once a month to gauge whats working or not, explains Sundararaj. At Delhis Kamei, a premium luxury cocktail bar and restaurant specialising in East Asian cuisine, chef Aditya Moitra is busy working on vegetarian ceviches; he recently tried chayote, a tuber found in various parts of the North-East, but couldnt get the crunch or flavour despite stir-frying it. That said, hes finalised the rest of the winter menu with dumpling soups, skewers and winter broths. Many restaurants are plan seasonal cocktail menus. VietNom in Delhi will be serving warm G&T infused with Darjeeling varieties of teas and hot toddy infused with lemongrass and spices for the winter. It was a lot of trial and error in the last two months, especially with the ratio of the tea and spirit concoctions," says mixologist Hemanshu Badola. At times, a chefs favourite also takes a beating," says chef Krishna Chaitanya of Zila, Hyderabad, citing the example of kachumber, an appetiser that was both a salad and a cold soup with heirloom tomatoes. It didnt work at all, no matter how much I tried convincing the guests; eventually, we removed it," he says. At Megu in Leela Palace, Delhi, which launched its new menu two months ago, the first change since the pandemic, the process was detailed, complete with feedback forms circulated within the team. Seasonality and sustainability is at the core of our changes," says the restaurants head chef Shubham Thakur, who has introduced vegetables such as okra and aubergine to honour regional cooking in Japanese homes. The award-winning restaurant for Japanese food, Megu has changed its menu only once before since its inception in 2012. In most five-star hotels, which have four or five restaurants, menu change doesnt happen at one go. It is rotational," says chef Sandeep Kalra of Pullman and Novotel, both in NCR, adding, we have repeat customers and we cannot suddenly bombard them with too many changes." Chefs travelling globally are also regarded as an important inspiration behind new menu creation. Adwait Anantwar of the Indo-Japanese Inja in Delhi says that his recent trip to Tokyo helped him craft the new 14-course degustation menu. It features aam papad with tuna, a kadhi pakora that marries the Indian dish with Japanese yuzu (a citrus fruit), and dashi (a classic stock preparation). Anantwar adds: Menu creation is a science, its eventual success or failure, however, depends solely on the patron." Abhilasha Ojha is a Delhi-based art and culture writer. My father passed away last year without executing a valid Will, leaving behind my mother, a son, i.e. me and my sister. He had bought a residential house in 2009 which has been equally mutated in the name of all the three legal heirs in the municipal records. We are planning to sell this property. We will execute the sale deed, but the sale proceeds will be deposited into my bank account. My mother and sister want to give me their share of the sale proceedsfor me to buy another residential house. Will there be any income tax implications for the entire transaction? Since the combined holding period for you and your father is more than 24 months, the profits on the same shall be treated as long-term capital gains. After your father's death, the property passes on to the heirs, and the profits will be taxable in their respective hands. Also Read | How falling stock market can help you save your income tax outgo? Since you plan to buy another residential house by investing the sale proceeds, you can claim an exemption under Section 54 of the Income Tax Act, provided the investments are made within the prescribed period. Please note that your sister and your mother cannot claim an exemption under Section 54 as they will gift their share of the sale proceeds and not join you as joint owners for buying the proposed residential house. They each will have to pay tax @ 12.50% on the difference between 1/3rd of the cost paid by your father and their share in the sale proceeds. Also Read | Do I have to file ITR in India after returning from UK for work? Understanding Tax Implications of Property Sale Your mother and sister can avoid this tax liability by gifting the inherited share in the house to you before the actual sale of the house instead of gifting their share in the sale proceeds of the house. Whether your sister and mother gift you their share in the property or in the sale proceeds, they will not have any tax implications as both are coved within the definition of relatives as per the provisions of section 56(2)(x) of the Act, from whom the gifts received are not to be treated as income. Also Read | CBDT launches campaign to assist income taxpayers with foreign asset reporting Read all our personal finance stories here Balwant Jain is a tax and investment expert and can be reached on jainbalwant@gmail.com and @jainbalwant his X handle. Over 10 lakh senior citizens aged 70 and above have enrolled for the newly launched Ayushman Vay Vandana Card, under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) health scheme, the Ministry of Health and Family welfare declared on Saturday. Of the 10 lakh people who have enrolled for the card, around 60 per cent, that is four lakh are females. The numbers have been recorded within three weeks after PM Modi unveiled the card on October 29, stated the ministry. The newly launched card has benefitted over 4,800 senior citizens aged 70 and above, including over 1,400 women, the ministry added. What is the Ayushman Vay Vandana Card? The card is a part of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY). The Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card allows its holders to access a wide range of healthcare services at both government and private hospitals that are part of the AB PMJAY network. Ayushman Vay Vandana Card: Eligibility The eligibility criteria for applying under this program are as follows: 1. The applicant must be a permanent resident of India. 2. The applicant must be aged 70 years or older. Ayushman Vay Vandana Card: How to Apply Having an Aadhaar card is must for those who wish to avail the facilities under the AB PM-JAY scheme. Here are the steps to apply for the Ayushman Vay Vandana Card online: Step 1: Download Ayushman APP Step 2: Click on Login as beneficiary Step 3: Enter Captcha, enter mobile number and select the mode of authentication and enter captcha again and click Login. Step 3: Enter beneficiary details, Aadhaar details Step 4: If a beneficiary is not found, follow the process for eKYC. Give consent for OTP. Also Read | Beyond health cover: Why Ayushman Bharat has still not aced its true test Step 5: Provide declaration as applicable, capture photo and fill all the additional application Step 6: Enter beneficiary mobile number and OTP Step 7: Fill in details of beneficiary such as category, PIN code. Step 8: Add family members details and proceed to submit Non-resident Indians (NRIs) receive or send money to India quite often, and usually open a non-resident ordinary (NRO) or non-resident external (NRE) bank account, or both. But a lack of understanding of their correct use may spell trouble. We lay out the key features of both accounts, common mistakes that NRIs make, and a few tips that you can follow. Assume Mr A is an NRI based in the US and his father wants to send him 10 lakh from India. A resident Indian can only send money to an NRI's NRO account. It cannot go in the NRE account because even though NRE is a rupee-denominated account, funds deposited in it must originate from foreign sources. The transaction will fail if you send money to an NRE account from India. Sending money to an NRO account is simple, but the purpose of transfer holds the key to getting it right. Some transactions may fall under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS). Also read: How NRIs can use UPI for instant, no-fee transactions abroad View Full Image Graphic: Pranay Bhardwaj "A resident individual can transfer INR funds into an NRO account online subject to the maximum INR transfer limit set in your netbanking or offline. However, if a resident indian who is a close relative (as defined in Section 6 of the Companies Act, 2013) sends some money to an NRI as a gift or loan, it falls under that person's annual LRS limit," said a senior banking executive who is not authorised to talk to media. It means Mr. A's father will have to declare that 10 lakh transfer to his son is not breaching his annual LRS limit. However, if a resident Indian sends rental income, buys a property or pays off a loan to an NRI, it will not be an LRS transaction. Keeping the transfer within the annual LRS limit is not enough. All LRS transactions above 7 lakh attract tax collected at source (TCS) at 0.5% to 20% depending on the purpose of the transfer. This means if Mr A's father transfers 10 lakh to his son's NRO account, the bank should apply 20% TCS on 3 lakh. "It would be the responsibility of the resident donor to ensure that the gift amount being remitted is under the LRS and all the remittances made by the donor during the financial year including the gift amount have not exceeded the limit prescribed under the LRS," read the RBI notification. Transferring funds from NRO to NRE/foreign bank Say Mr A has a large sum in his NRO account that would earn him interest income of 1 lakh a year. He will only receive 70,000, as the bank will deduct 30,000 as tax deducted at source (TDS). Banks are expected to deduct TDS on the interest earned from an NRO account at a rate of 30%, plus any applicable cess and surcharge. Moreover, withdrawals from NRO accounts are restrictive. "Most NRIs have the misconception that only $1 million per financial year can be repatriated. While this is true, some funds can be repatriated fully," said the banking executive. "There could be two types of funds in an NRO account current income and capital receipts. Any periodic income such as interest income, rent, pension, salary or dividend is called current income. Everything else (mostly lumpsum) is capital receipts. Current income can be repatriated without any limit (subject to producing the appropriate certificate from a chartered accountant), while capital receipts have a limit of $1 million per financial year," the executive added. Also read: The NRIs guide to choosing the right kind of account to invest in Indian stocks The TDS and restrictions on withdrawals are two major reasons why having an NRE account for an NRI is important. "Most NRIs open an NRO account. Even if they have an NRE account, they do not use it often. I tell all my clients to keep transferring funds from their NRO to NRE account in batches. Everything that an NRO account does is possible via an NRE account. Its better to hold large sums of money in NRE," said the executive. To transfer funds from NRO to NRE account or to a foreign account, NRIs need documentary proof of the source of funds being used for repatriation. They need to fill in Form 15CA. Some transactions require Form 15CB and CA certificate. In many cases, only 15CA is needed. If 15CA Part A, B or D is provided, it does not require Form 15CB or CA certificate. Form 15 CB is required only in case of Form 15CA Part C. Some banks allow repatriation for multiple purposes including family maintenance where they don't collect these certificates. But a CA letter is asked for," said the executive. NRO versus NRE Dipen Shah, co-founder of NRI FinOne, has a client in Tanzania. He was in the process of buying an insurance policy from an Indian insurer for which he had to make payments from his NRE account. "My client made a mistake and transferred money from his foreign bank account to the NRO account. The payment to the insurance company could not be made. He had to follow a cumbersome process of transferring funds from NRO to NRE account," said Shah. Shah added that if NRIs want to invest, spend and keep their funds in India and don't want to repatriate back to the source country, they should transfer the funds directly to their NRO account. In other cases, they should use an NRE account. Also read: GIFT City isnt just for NRIs and foreigner investorsit has something for everyone While transferring money from NRO to NRE is advisable, the reverse should be avoided. "NRE funds are fully repatriable. Why restrict your money by moving it to the NRO account? Make sure that you get inward remittances in the NRE account, not NRO," said the senior banking official cited above. Another misconception is about debit cards. People tend to believe that the debit card that comes with the NRO account can be used abroad. This is not the case." As per RBI, international debit cards are given only with NRE accounts, and can be used abroad. NRO account holders receive Rupay or domestic cards," the banking official added. Sending money to relatives in India This can be done via banks, exchange houses or fintech platforms. "Funds can be sent via wire/telegraphic/SWIFT transfer from a foreign bank account, through an exchange house, or using online platforms like Remitly, Xoom, and Western Union to an Indian bank account," said Ruhi Mahajan, an ex-banker and a freelance BFSI trainer. What are the charges? "Indian banks typically do not charge for inward remittances, foreign banks or platforms may have fees. If currency conversion occurs in India, GST may apply, ranging from 0.18% to 0.018% of the amount of currency exchanged," said Mahajan. Foreign banks, exchange houses, or fintech platforms may offer more favourable conversion rates. "In that case, convert funds abroad and remit INR directly to an NRE account or the resident relative's account," said Mahajan. Also read: Reintroduced indexation benefit for property disallows loss offsets, excludes NRIs and companies She suggested that if the conversion is done in India, it is better to transfer funds to an NRE account and use netbanking to transfer to the relatives resident account. "Making a resident relative a mandate holder on the NRE account can simplify the access in India. Preferential conversion rates are often available in NRE accounts, making this a cost-effective option," said Mahajan. A mandate holder is a person who is authorised to operate a bank account on behalf of the account holder. One of the passengers travelling on the Tirunelveli-Chennai Egmore Vande Bharat Express found black insects in the sambar served to him on the train. Congress MP Manickam Tagore also shared the video questioning the hygiene standards. The passenger lodged the complaint shortly after the train departed from Madurai. Investigations revealed that the food was supplied by the Tirunelveli base kitchen managed by Brindavan Food Products, news wire PTI reported. The officials had also offered an alternate meal at Dindigul station, which the customer declined. What the investigation found The Southern Railway officials have imposed a fine of 50,000 on Brindavan Food Products, the service provider, and extended an apology to the passenger. The investigation revealed that the insect was found lodged on the lid of the container in which the food was served. Congress MP Manickam Tagore, from Tamil Nadu, had also flagged the incident. " Passengers have raised concerns over hygiene and IRCTC's accountability. What steps are being taken to address this and ensure food safety on premium trains?" he posted on X, tagging the Railways Minister, Ashwini Vaishnaw. Also Read | BJP MLA falls on to railway track while flagging new Vande Bharat train | Watch The railways responded to the complaint and said that an "immediate investigation was conducted". To further investigate the source of the contamination, a joint inspection was conducted by the Food Safety Officer, Health Inspector, and Chief Commercial Inspector from Tirunelveli at the base kitchen. Food samples were collected and sent for testing, added the statement. Cockroach found in Vande Bharat meal This is not the first such incident reported on a Vande Bharat train. A few months ago, a passenger claimed on social media that he found a cockroach in his meal served on the train. Delhi Minister and Aam Aadmi Party leader Kailash Gahlot on Sunday resigned from the party saying that today, AAP faces grave challenges from within and instead of fighting for people's rights we have increasingly only been fighting for our own political agenda Read full letter here: Let me start with sincerely thanking you for having given me the honour of serving and representing the people of Delhi as an MLA and a Minister. However, at the same time I also want to share with you that today the Aam Aadmi Party faces grave challenges. Challenges from within, to the very values that brought us together to AAP. Political ambitions have overtaken our commitment towards people, leaving many promises unfulfilled. Take for example the YAMUNA, which we had promised to transform into a clean river, but never got around to doing it. Now the Yamuna River is perhaps even more polluted than ever before. Apart from this, now there are many embarrassing and awkward controversies like the 'SHEESHMAHAL', which are now making everyone doubt whether we still believe in being the AAM AADMI. Another painful point has been the fact that instead of fighting for people's rights we have increasingly only been fighting for our own political agenda. This has severely crippled our ability to even deliver basic services to the people of Delhi. It is now obvious that real progress for Delhi cannot happen if the Delhi Government spends majority of its time fighting with the Centre. I had started my political journey with the commitment to serve the people of Delhi and I want to continue doing that. Which is why, I find myself left with no option but to step away from AAP and hence I resign from primary membership of Aam Aadmi Party. I wish you the best for your health and future. I also thank all my party colleagues and well-wishers for their wishes and kindness throughout this journey. The news comes as a huge setback to the AAP ahead of Delhi polls. In response to worsening air quality in Delhi-NCR, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), effective from 08:00 AM on November 18, 2024. The decision follows a significant rise in Delhis Air Quality Index (AQI), which reached 457 at 7 PM on November 17, indicating Severe+ pollution levels. Rising Air Quality Index triggers emergency action As per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhis AQI recorded 441 at 4 PM on November 17, climbing further to 457 by 7 PM. The rapid deterioration in air quality has been attributed to unfavorable meteorological conditions, such as low wind speeds, which have led to a spike in pollutants. Stage-IV GRAP measures implemented To address the escalating air pollution, the CAQM has implemented the stringent measures outlined under Stage-IV of the GRAP, which targets Severe+ air quality (AQI > 450). These measures are designed to prevent further deterioration of air quality in the region and will complement the actions already in place under Stage-I, Stage-II, and Stage-III. Delhi schools to shift online as GRAP-4 imposed The Delhi government has decided to discontinue physical classes for all students, except those in Classes 10 and 12, starting November 18, 2024. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced on Twitter that all schools would transition to online classes until further notice. Key actions under Stage-IV of GRAP Effective from 08:00 AM on November 18, 2024, the following actions will be enforced: What is not allowed Truck restrictions: Entry of non-essential trucks into Delhi will be stopped, except for those carrying essential commodities or providing essential services. Only LNG, CNG, electric, and BS-VI diesel trucks will be allowed entry. Ban on polluting vehicles: The entry of Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) from outside Delhi, except for electric, CNG, or BS-VI diesel models, will be prohibited unless they are delivering essential goods or services. A ban will be enforced on the operation of Delhi-registered BS-IV and below diesel-operated Medium Goods Vehicles (MGVs) and Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs), except for essential services. Ban on construction and demolition (C&D) activities: C&D activities, including those for public projects like highways, flyovers, and power transmission, will be suspended, in line with Stage-III measures. School closures: Schools in NCR are advised to consider discontinuing physical classes for grades VI-IX and XI, opting for online lessons instead. Work-from-home measures: State and local governments are urged to enforce 50% work-from-home policies for municipal, public, and private offices. The Central Government may also consider similar measures for its employees. Additional Emergency Measures: The closure of non-essential commercial activities, colleges, and educational institutions, as well as the possibility of implementing odd-even vehicle regulations, may be considered by the state governments. Also Read | Centre plans to add 20 more air quality monitoring stations in Delhi Appeal to citizens for cooperation The CAQM has also urged residents of Delhi-NCR to support the effective implementation of GRAP measures. Citizens are advised to: Limit outdoor activities, especially for children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. Jamia Millia Islamia University (JMI) has been alleged of wrongful discrimination of non-Muslims and coercive religious conversions, a report by the NGO "Call for Justice" notes. It also points to a pattern of bias at the university. Reacting to the allegations, the university claimed that past administrations may have mishandled such issues, the current leadership is committed to fostering an inclusive environment. What the report said? The report details instances of discrimination against non-Muslim students and faculty. They testified about widespread bias and prejudice rooted in religious identity that had affected the campus life For example, an Assistant Professor faced taunts and insults from Muslim colleagues. In another instance, a non-Muslim faculty member from the Scheduled Caste (SC) community was denied basic amenities like office furniture Then, an assistant controller of examinations was openly mocked for occupying a senior administrative position despite being a non-Muslim The report highlights harassment of tribal students and faculty, forcing many to leave the university. ZEE News claims, citing the report, that Hindu students, professors, and staff faced threats of acid attacks and rape for resisting conversion efforts. It claims that Hindu students were deliberately failed in exams to pressure them into converting. These actions were reportedly carried out by some Muslim faculty members and students. What did the University say? Jamia Millia Islamia University responded to the allegations with a statement reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity and condemning any form of discrimination. The university admitted that previous administrations might have mishandled similar issues but emphasized that, under Vice-Chancellor Professor Mazhar Asifs leadership, efforts are underway to create a fair and inclusive environment. IMD Update: India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall with thunderstorm and lightning in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal and Kerala today. The weather department also forecasted very dense fog conditions will prevail in night and early morning hours over Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh, Delhi, West Rajasthan today, November 17. IMD Rain Alert -IMD predicts moderate rainfall with thunderstorm and lightning over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Kerala, Mahe on 17 November, 2024 -Moderate rainfall over Andaman and Nicobar Islands will occur during the week, ending on 23 November, IMD predicted -Heavy rainfall has been predicted over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Kerala on 17 November, 2024. IMD Fog Alert -Very dense fog conditions are very likely to prevail in night or early morning hours in Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi, West Rajasthan on 17 November -IMD predicted that similar conditions will prevail over Bihar till 18 November. -Dense fog conditions are very likely to prevail in night or early morning hours over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim during 17 -19 November -IMD forecasted that similar conditions will also prevail over Assam and Meghalaya during 17 -19 November, over Bihar during 19 November -The IMD warned dense fog conditions over Himachal Pradesh during 19-21November; over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, West Uttar Pradesh, West Rajasthan during 18 November Also Read | Chennai rains today: IMD warns of heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu districts IMD Alert on Temperature Change -IMD has predicted gradual fall in minimum temperatures by 2-3C over northwest and Central India during next 4-5 days. -IMD also warned of gradual fall in minimum temperatures by 2-3C in the next 2 days and no large change thereafter over East India. -Gradual fall in minimum temperatures by 2-3C over West India during next 5 days. IMD Alert for Delhi-NCR Weather forecast over Delhi-NCR during 17-19 November: On 17 November -Mainly clear sky. -The predominant surface wind is likely to be from northwest direction with speed less than 10 kmph during morning hours. -Smog or dense fog at few places is likely over Delhi-NCR in the morning. -The wind speed will increase thereafter becoming less than 16 kmph from northwest direction during afternoon. -Wind Speed will decrease thereafter becoming less than 10 kmph from northwest direction during evening and night. -Smog or shallow fog is likely in the evening to night, predicts IMD On 18 November -Mainly clear sky. -The predominant surface wind is likely to be from northwest direction with speed less than 10 kmph during morning hours. -Smog or dense fog has been forecasted at few places of Delhi-NCR in the morning of 18 November. -The wind speed will gradually increase becoming 10-14 kmph from northwest direction during afternoon. -IMD predicts the wind speed will decrease thereafter becoming less than 08 kmph from northwest direction during evening and night. -Smog or shallow fog is likely in the evening to night, predicts IMD On 19 November -Mainly clear sky. -The predominant surface wind is likely to be from northwest direction with wind speed less than 10 kmph during morning hours. -Smog or moderate fog is likely to prevail over Delhi-NCR in the morning of 19 November. -The wind speed will increase thereafter becoming 10-12 kmph from northwest direction during afternoon. -The wind speed will gradually decrease becoming less than 08 kmph from northwest directions during evening and night. BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 17. The session titled "Navigating Human Mobility and Climate Change: Addressing Climate-Induced Migration and Displacement" has officially kicked off in Baku as part of the COP29 Parliamentary Meeting organized jointly by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and Azerbaijani Parliament, Trend reports. The session will focus on the increasing trend of migration and population displacement due to the intensifying impacts of climate change. The discussions will explore how parliaments can address the root causes of migration and displacement, along with promoting strategies to protect displaced persons and migrants. The session will also examine the connections between climate and human security, particularly in situations where countries face the risk of disappearing due to climate change. Vice President of the IPU from Azerbaijan, MP Sevil Mikayilova, is also participating in the COP29 Parliamentary Meeting. The 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), which will run until November 22, opened at the Baku Olympic Stadium on November 11. The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change is an agreement signed at the Rio Earth Summit in June 1992 to prevent dangerous human interference in the climate system. The acronym COP (Conference of Parties) stands for Conference of Parties and is the highest legislative body overseeing the implementation of the Framework Convention on Climate Change. A total of 198 countries are parties to the Convention. Unless otherwise decided by the parties, COP is held annually. The first COP event was held in March 1995 in Berlin, and its secretariat is located in Bonn. Actor-turned-politician Govinda, while campaigning in Jalgaon on Saturday, had to cut short his schedule due to health issues. This incident comes just a month after reports surfaced that he had accidentally shot himself, causing a knee injury. Govinda was on the campaign trail supporting Mahayuti candidates ahead of the November 20 elections. He was travelling in Muktainagar, Bodwad, Pachora, and Chopda areas of Jalgaon, and returned to Mumbai as he suddenly fell sick. During his roadshow in Pachora, which he had to end prematurely due to his condition, he urged the public to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi and cast their votes for the ruling alliance of BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP. Govinda, a former Congress Lok Sabha MP, who joined the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, was hospitalised recently after getting wounded in the leg due to accidental discharge of his gun in his Mumbai home. Govinda accidentally shot himself Last month, Govinda injured his leg when his revolver accidently went off and underwent a surgery the same day. He was discharged from hospital three days later. Reacting to the incident, he said, I was about to leave for a show in Kolkata. It was about 5 in the morning. Aur uss time par vo giri aur chal padi (and it just fell and went off). I was shocked by what happened and when I looked down, I saw a fountain of blood. Then I made a video and spoke to the doctor and got admitted. Asked why a fun-loving actor like him has a revolver, he said, "When you have fame, you have to be cautious as there are people who love you and then there are those who envy you." His wife informed that Govinda had been advised rest for at least six weeks. "He is fine and will start dancing again in a few days. Everyone has prayed for him and we have the blessings of Mata rani," she said. Also Read | Govinda forgets name of Shiv Sena candidate he went to campaign for While the local police have been conducting an investigation, the Mumbai crime branch has also initiated a parallel enquiry into the incident. No complaint has been lodged in the matter so far, police said. Manipur Violence News: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has cancelled his scheduled election rallies in Maharashtra and returned to Delhi as tensions escalate in the northeastern state of Manipur. The cancellation follows a night of intense violence and unrest in the region, which has seen violent mobs target BJP and Congress legislators' homes, leading to a volatile situation in the capital, Imphal. Manipur Violence News: Amit Shahs Return to Delhi for Emergency Review of Situation Amit Shah, who was in Maharashtra to campaign for the state Assembly elections, is now expected to hold an urgent meeting with senior officials in Delhi to assess the situation in Manipur. According to PTI report Amit Shah's return is linked to the deteriorating law and order situation in Manipur, where widespread violence has plagued the Imphal Valley. Manipur Violence News: Mobs Attack CM Biren Singh's Home On Saturday night, violent mobs set fire to the residences of three BJP legislators and one Congress MLA across various districts of the Imphal Valley. The targets included prominent figures such as PWD Minister Govindas Konthoujam, BJP MLAs Y Radheshyam and Paonam Brojen, and Congress MLA Thokchom Lokeshwar. The attacks were reportedly triggered by outrage over the killing of three women and children in Jiribam district earlier that week. The situation escalated further when protesters attempted to storm the ancestral home of Chief Minister N Biren Singh, though security forces successfully repelled the attempt. As anger among the public mounted, an indefinite curfew was imposed in five districts, while internet services were suspended to curb the spread of misinformation. Manipur Violence News: Killings of Women and Children by Militants Trigger Fresh Violent Protests The current wave of Manipur violence gained momentum following the recovery of six bodies, suspected to be of missing Meitei individuals, from a displaced persons' camp near a site where security forces killed 10 Hmar men on 11 November. Public frustration has been fuelled further by the re-imposition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in violence-prone areas. The Manipur government has formally requested the Centre to review and withdraw AFSPA from six police station jurisdictions. Manipur Violence News: Centre's Response The Indian government has dispatched a team of central security officers to Manipur to assess the situation and provide assistance to the state authorities. The Centres decision to reimpose AFSPA in Manipur on Thursday in six police station areas, including the violence-hit Jiribam, followed a wider application of the Act on 1 October. Manipur Violence News: In a rapidly escalating crisis, civil society groups in Manipur have given the state government a 24-hour ultimatum, demanding immediate and decisive action against armed militant groups, reports NDTV. The call for action comes as Manipur continues to grapple with violent unrest, including an attempted breach of Chief Minister N Biren Singh's residence by a mob on Saturday evening. Manipur Violence News: Rahul Gandhi seeks PM Visit Amid the rising violence in Manipur, Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has voiced his concerns, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the state and take steps to restore peace. Gandhi expressed his deep concern on X (formerly Twitter), stating: The recent string of violent clashes and continuing bloodshed in Manipur is deeply disturbing. After more than a year of division and suffering, it was the hope of every Indian that the Central and State governments would have made every effort at reconciliation and found a solution. I urge the PM once again to visit Manipur and work towards restoring peace and healing in the region. Rajya Sabha MP Rajiv Shukla also sought goverment actions. Taking to X, he posted, Manipur is burning again! Government should take sincere efforts for a peaceful & prosperous Manipur by taking into confidence of all stakeholders. I urge the Govt. to take proactive steps to address this crisis at the earliest. Country can't afford the crisis to continue. Manipur Violence News: Violence Escalates with Attacks on Government Properties The situation in Manipur turned even more volatile as protesters attacked the homes of three state ministers and six Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) on Saturday, including Chief Minister and BJP leader Biren Singh The violent protests followed the discovery of the bodies of six missing individuals, recovered from a river in Jiribam. Protestors ransacked and set fire to properties. Protesters assembled outside the Sagolband residence of BJP legislator RK Imo, son-in-law of Chief Minister N Biren Singh. Security forces responded by deploying tear gas shells to disperse the crowds in different parts of Imphal, the capital of Manipur. Manipur Violence News: Bodies Recovered from Manipur River The current wave of Manipur violence gained momentum following the recovery of six bodies, suspected to be of missing Meitei individuals, from a displaced persons' camp near a site where security forces killed 10 Hmar men on 11 November. The slain men were described by security forces as militants, though the Kuki-Zo community insists they were village volunteers. Among the six Meitei victims were a 25-year-old woman, her two children, a 31-year-old woman and her daughter, and a 60-year-old woman, allegedly abducted by Kuki militants. The bodies of the three individuals, believed to be among the six who went missing from Jiribam on Monday, were discovered floating in the River Jiri. Also Read | Manipur news: AFSPA reimposed in six police station areas The bodies were sent to Silchar Medical College and Hospital in Assam for post-mortem examination. Manipur Violence News: Govt Imposes Restrictions In response to the surging violence, the Manipur government imposed a curfew in the Imphal East, Imphal West, and Bishnupur districts, starting from 4:30 pm on Saturday. Internet and mobile data services were suspended in Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Kangpokpi, and Churachandpur districts to curb the spread of hate speech and prevent the circulation of inflammatory videos on social media platforms. Manipur Violence News: The Role of Armed Militant Groups in Crisis As tensions remain high, civil society groups have called for action against the armed militant groups believed to be fuelling the violence. Manipur violence news today: On Saturday, Manipur witnessed a dramatic escalation of violence as an enraged mob attempted to storm the private residence of Chief Minister N Biren Singh in Imphal. Security personnel, in a swift response, used tear gas shells to disperse the crowd. Chief Minister Biren Singh was not at his residence during the incident and was confirmed to be safe in his office. Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi took to microblogging site X (formerly Twitter), urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Manipur and work towards restoring peace. Manipur violence news: Residences of Ministers Targeted The violent unrest extended beyond CM Biren Singh's home. A mob also attacked the residence of Health and Family Welfare Minister Sapam Ranjan in Lamphel Sanakeithel and targeted the house of L. Susindro Singh, the Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution Minister. These attacks underscored growing dissatisfaction among protesters, who blamed government officials for failing to contain the escalating violence in the state. Manipur violence news: Protests Outside BJP Legislator's Home Protesters also assembled outside the Sagolband residence of BJP legislator RK Imo, son-in-law of Chief Minister N Biren Singh. The demonstrators demanded decisive action and an "appropriate response" to recent killings, insisting that the authorities "arrest the culprits within 24 hours". Manipur violence news: Curfew and Internet Suspension Imposed In response to the surging violence, the Manipur government imposed a curfew in the Imphal East, Imphal West, and Bishnupur districts, starting from 4:30 pm on Saturday. Internet and mobile data services were suspended in Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Kangpokpi, and Churachandpur districts to curb the spread of hate speech and prevent the circulation of inflammatory videos on social media platforms. Manipur violence news: Recovery of Six Bodies Intensifies Protests The current wave of Manipur violence gained momentum following the recovery of six bodies, suspected to be of missing Meitei individuals, from a displaced persons' camp near a site where security forces killed 10 Hmar men on 11 November. The slain men were described by security forces as militants, though the Kuki-Zo community insists they were village volunteers. Among the six Meitei victims were a 25-year-old woman, her two children, a 31-year-old woman and her daughter, and a 60-year-old woman, allegedly abducted by Kuki militants. The bodies of the three individuals, believed to be among the six who went missing from Jiribam on Monday, were discovered floating in the River Jiri. The bodies were sent to Silchar Medical College and Hospital in Assam for post-mortem examination. Manipur violence news: Protests Against Re-imposition of AFSPA Public frustration has been fuelled further by the re-imposition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in violence-prone areas. Protesters have criticised ministers and Members of the Legislative Assembly for their inability to mitigate the conflict and oppose AFSPA's return. Also Read | Manipur news: AFSPA reimposed in six police station areas Manipur violence news: Attack on Nishikanta Singh A gathering outside independent legislator Sapam Nishikanta Singhs residence on Tiddim Road in Keishamthong turned violent after learning that the MLA was out of state. Protesters attacked the office of a local newspaper owned by Nishikanta Singh, causing damage to its temporary structures. Manipur violence news: Order for Curfew and Government's Response The District Magistrate of Imphal West, Th. Kirankumar, issued an official curfew order starting from 4:30 pm on Saturday to contain the unrest. This action followed earlier measures, including curfews and internet suspensions, implemented to prevent the spread of misinformation and incitement amid the Manipur violence. Manipur violence news: Union Home Ministry Steps In Reacting to the spiralling crisis, the Amit Shah-led Union Home Ministry directed all security forces in the state to "take necessary steps to restore order and peace". An official statement noted, "The security scenario in Manipur has remained fragile for the past few days. Armed miscreants from both communities in conflict have been indulging in violence, leading to unfortunate loss of lives and disruption in public order." Manipur violence news: Re-imposition of AFSPA The Centres decision to reimpose AFSPA on Thursday in six police station areas, including the violence-hit Jiribam, followed a wider application of the Act on 1 October. The six police station areas where AFSPA has been reimposed are Sekmai and Lamsang in Imphal West district, Lamlai in Imphal East district, Jiribam in Jiribam district, Leimakhong in Kangpokpi and Moirang in Bishnupur This previous order exempted 19 police station areas, which now include those seeking relief from AFSPA reimposition. Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu conferred the national award, the "Grand Commander of the Order of Niger" (GCON), on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a prestigious ceremony at the State House in Abuja on Sunday. The honor was bestowed upon Prime Minister Modi for his exemplary statesmanship and significant contribution to strengthening the ties between India and Nigeria. The award citation highlighted Prime Minister Modi's visionary leadership, which has positioned India as a global powerhouse. It also lauded his transformative governance, emphasizing his efforts to foster unity, peace, and shared prosperity for all. After receiving Nigeria's highest national award, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed that the recognition will motivate him to further strengthen the India-Nigeria strategic partnership. He extended his sincere gratitude to the Nigerian government and its people, dedicating the honour to the "140 crore Indians" and the enduring friendship between the two nations. PM Modi said, "I express my heartfelt gratitude to the government and the people of Nigeria for conferring on me the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, Nigeria's national award. I accept this honour with humility and respect. I dedicate this honour to the 140 crore Indians and the deep friendship between India and Nigeria." "This award will keep inspiring us to take the India-Nigeria strategic partnership to new heights," he added. PM Modi further highlighted the strong bonds between India and Nigeria, emphasising that their relations are built on "mutual cooperation, goodwill, and mutual respect." He said, "Relations between India and Nigeria are based on mutual cooperation, goodwill and mutual respect. As two vibrant democracies and dynamic economies, we have been working together for the well-being of the people of both countries. Social and cultural diversity in both countries is our identity and our strength. There are many similarities between Nigeria's Renowned Hope Agenda and Viksit Bharat 2047." He added, "Today, we discussed in detail on making mutual cooperation more strong and broad. New possibilities have been identified in the sectors of economy, energy, agriculture, security, fintech, small and medium scale enterprise and culture." PM Modi also reaffirmed India's commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria and the broader African continent and acknowledged Nigeria's "positive role" in Africa. "Nigeria has a very big and positive role in Africa and close cooperation with Africa has been a high priority for India. India and Nigeria will move forward together for the prosperity of the people of both countries and the entire African continent. We will give importance to the interests and priorities of the Global South, working in close coordination," he said. Also Read | HTLS 2024: PM Modi unveils commemorative stamp on 100 years of Hindustan Times Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Nigeria marks the first trip by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 17 years. PM Modi is currently on a three-nation tour, covering Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana, from November 17 to November 21. Earlier on Sunday, PM Modi held a "very productive discussion" with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to further enhance the strategic partnership between the two nations. The Prime Minister emphasized the "immense scope" for strengthening ties in various sectors, including defence, technology, health, and more. Also Read | PM Modi lauds The Sabarmati Report for portrayal of Godhra train burning case In a post on X, PM Modi shared, "Had a very productive discussion with President Tinubu. We talked about adding momentum to our strategic partnership. There is immense scope for ties to flourish even further in sectors like defence, energy, technology, trade, health, education and more." Bollywood actress and activist Swara Bhasker has found herself in the midst of a social media storm after meeting Maulana Sajjad Nomani, a controversial Islamic figure known for his opposition of womens education. Swara Bhaskers meeting with the maulana, alongside her husband and NCP(Sharad Pawar) candidate Fahad Ahmad has sparked severe backlash from netizens. Swara Bhasker, Fahad Ahmed Meets Maulana Sajjad Nomani On Saturday, Swara Bhasker and Fahad Ahmad visited Maulana Sajjad Nomanis office, where they were reportedly showered with blessings. Fahad shared pictures from the visit on social media, which showed Swara Bhasker in a pastel salwar suit with her head covered with a dupatta, in line with Islamic customs. However, the meeting has not been well received by Swaras followers, many of whom took to social media to question her commitment to women's rights. Maulana Nomani is notorious for making statements that oppose womens education, including claiming that it is haram for parents to send their daughters to school or college unsupervised. This has caused many to accuse Swara Bhasker of hypocrisy. Swara Bhasker Faces Backlash from Netizens Critics on social media were quick to point out the apparent contradiction in Swara Bhaskers actions. One user commented, Ultra feminist Swara Bhasker received blessings by Deobandi Pro-Taliban fundamentalist Maulana Sajjad Nomani, who often preached parents to avoid sending daughters to educational institutions to prevent them turning kafir. He openly speaks against inter-faith (Muslim girl to Hindu boy) marriages. Do @ReallySwara who embraced inter-faith relationship endorse his views? She has to. The cult doesn't provide much choices., the netizen added. Another user quipped, Odd days - Smash Brahminical patriarchy. Even days - Genuflect in front of a Mullah, highlighting what they saw as a flip-flop in Swaras values. Swara Bhasker exposed. wrote another. Some users mocked Swara for her appearance, with one writing, Makeup is haram in Islam. Swara Bhasker is doing it right. One netizen also took a dig at Fahad Ahmed and said, "MVA official candidate Fahad Ahmad meets Maulana Sajjad Nomani hours before voting! Maualana Sajjad Nomani is the same man who called for "Vote Jizad" & Social Boycott of "Non Muzlims" not supporting MVA!" Fahad Ahmeds Political Candidature in Maharashtra In October, Fahad Ahmed was fielded as a candidate for the Anushakti Nagar seat in Mumbai in the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections on NCP (Sharad Pawar) ticket. Ahmed is set to face off against Sana Malik of NCP (Ajit Pawar) for the Maharashtra Assembly Elections. Speaking on his candidature from the Anushakti Nagar seat in the Maharashtra polls, Fahad had said that he is thankful to NCP chief Sharad Pawar for asking SP chief Akhilesh Yadav that they want to announce his name as a candidate from NCP-SCP. Swara Bhasker and Fahads Personal Life Swara Bhasker and Fahad Ahmad married in February 2023 under the Special Marriages Act. Later that year, they welcomed their daughter, Raabiyaa. Maharashtra Assembly Elections Ultra feminist Swara Bhasker received blessings by Deobandi Pro-Taliban fundamentalist Maulana Sajjad Nomani. The Maharashtra Assembly elections are scheduled for November 20, with counting for all 288 constituencies on November 23. The election is crucial for all major political players, including BJP, Eknath Shinde and Uddhav Thackeray factions of Shiv Sena, and Sharad Paware, Ajit Pawar factions of NCP. Also Read | I am willing to fight and pay a price: Swara Bhasker In the 2019 Assembly elections, the BJP won 105 seats, the Shiv Sena 56, and the Congress 44. In 2014, the BJP secured 122 seats, the Shiv Sena 63, and the Congress 42. A fire at Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, that tragically claimed the lives of 11 newborns has been deemed accidental, according to a two-member investigative committee, a news report said. The incident, which occurred in the neonatal wards of the hospital around 10:45 pm on Friday, has not resulted in the registration of any First Information Report (FIR) as the panel found no evidence of criminal conspiracy or negligence, NDTV reported citing sources. The fire broke out in the neonatal wards of Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College in Jhansi on Friday night. The two-member committee, which was supposed to submit its report within 24 hours, consisted of Jhansi Commissioner Vipul Dubey and DIG Range Kalanidhi Nathani. The committee's findings revealed that fire in the paediatrics ward could not be controlled as water sprinklers were not installed. According to the report, doctors told the committee that water sprinklers were not installed due to the presence of newborns in the NICU ward. The committee's detailed investigation report is expected soon. During the incident, two doctors, six nurses and other staff were present in the ward. In an attempt to control the fire, one of the nurses suffered burns on her legs. The fire was caused due to a short circuit in a switchboard that spread quickly to the oxygen concentrator. By the time paramedical staff and others used went with fire extinguishers, the fire was out of control. However, the fire engine reached within minutes, the report said. Also Read | Jhansi hospital fire news: Yogi govt forms team to probe death of 10 babies New Delhi, Nov 17 (PTI) When Rajiv Gandhi was the prime minister, he was determined to bring General Electric into India and his wish was fulfilled by DLF's K P Singh, who helped catalyse the American giant's presence in this country, says a new book. Singh talks about his journey through India's transforming landscapes and his indelible contributions to the industry in "Why the Heck Not", published by Penguin Random House India. Co-authored with Aparna Jain, Singh also writes about the bold risks and visionary decisions that shaped his career, as well as the challenges he overcame. Delving into the GE story, the book says in the mid to late '80s, Gandhi revered GE chairman and CEO Jack Welch as a business icon. Determined to bring him to India, he dispatched the Indian envoy in Washington, Ambassador P K Kaul, to extend a formal invitation, it says. "At the time, India was not globally known for business prospects and was not a priority on the lists of investors and entrepreneurs. Jack refused Kaul, bluntly stating that he would not waste his time visiting India," it says. Singh then recalls an evening in 1988 when Gandhi's secretary, Sarla Grewal, met at a formal dinner and urged him to fulfil the prime minister's wish, regardless of obstacles. Singh knew it was a difficult task but still said he would "meet Welch, gauge his pulse and see if I can convince him for an India visit". Welch had then just married and Singh proposed that the couple should come and see the "romantic Taj Mahal". Soon, Jack was scheduled for a four-day visit. "I don't want to meet any fuddy-duddies. The youth are the ones with promise. I want to meet young leaders and businesspeople," he told Singh. Singh unfurled the red carpet for Welch and his wife, Jane Beasley, with flair. "From the moment Welch stepped onto Indian soil, it was a whirlwind of business meetings and back-to-back mornings with leaders, bureaucrats and industry titans," the book says. "Breakfast was with the Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's dynamic team, including Sam Pitroda, the chief technology advisor, Jairam Ramesh from the Planning Commission and Montek Singh Ahluwalia, special secretary to Rajiv Gandhi. "Sam made a critical presentation to Welch, demonstrating how India was perhaps one of the best countries for GE to begin a business processing office (BPO) - a term not even heard of in those days. Welch was impressed, sensing the pulse of India's ambition," it says. "Sam, ever the gracious host, then chauffeured Jack to visit Manmohan Singh, who had been the former head of the RBI and was then head of the Planning Commission. Manmohan Singh was calmly sitting on his rocking chair, and their thoughtful conversation left Jack excited about India's future," it adds. From Delhi, Welch and his wife went to Jaipur and then Agra. "In Agra, the serene and glistening Taj Mahal, framed against the pink sky at sunset, worked its magic on Jack and Jane. They were delighted with the trip," Singh writes. "Jack left India, hungover from the sights, sounds and colours but incredibly excited about the prospects for GE in India," the book says. The authors write that what GE eventually brought to India, however, would change the landscape of Gurgaon and accelerate growth. In 1997, when the head of GE Capital India, Pramod Bhasin, set up their new offices on eight floors of a modern commercial building-DLF Corporate Park in Gurgaon he wanted to pilot a new idea that had been mulling in his head. "So he converted one floor into a Business Processing Office (BPO) to handle GE's back office operations. The 6000 square feet floor was filled with large white computers and four people at a desk," the book says. Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday slammed PM Narendra Modi for Manipur mob violence noting that the state is undergoing unimaginable pain, division and simmering violence. Posting on X, he said, We are saying it with utmost responsibility that it looks that the BJP deliberately wants Manipur to burn, for it serves its hateful divisive politics. At least 17 people have lost their lives since November 7. New districts are being added to the list of strife-torn regions and the fire is spilling over to bordering NE states. You have failed Manipur a beautiful border state. Even if you visit Manipur in future, people of the state will never forgive or forget that you left them to fend for themselves, and never set foot in their state to heal their miseries and find a solution, he added The Congress party also posted a video on its X handle, captioning it as the forgotten state. Why would the Prime Minister go to Nigeria but not to Manipur where innocent women and children are being killed because they are Hindu. Is the Hindutva practiced by Modi and advocated by us?, add Subramanian Swamy On Saturday night, angry crowds attacked the homes and properties of several public representatives, including Ministers and MLAs, in Imphal. To control the situation, police used tear gas to disperse the mob. Security forces, including the Army and Assam Rifles, were sent to Imphal to increase security in the town. They also conducted flag marches. During the effort to disperse the crowd, eight people were injured. So far, Manipur police officials have arrested 23 individuals who were part of the mob involved in the alleged "ransacking and arson of the houses". Bhubaneswar, Nov 17 (PTI) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who is on a visit to Singapore, has met several industrialists in the island country and urged them to invest in the state, an official statement said here on Sunday. During the visit, the chief minister met Ravin Jhunjhunwala, chairman of Orind Singapore Pte Ltd, who is looking to invest in the bio-fertiliser sector. Majhi urged Jhunjhunwala to set up a facility in Odisha and assured him of all necessary support from the state government, it said. The chief minister also held a meeting with Vivek Agarwal, promoter of Visa Group Ltd, there and urged him to expand capacity, increase value-added products and create more employment in the state in the steel and ferro-chrome sectors, it said. A high-level delegation led by Majhi is on a six-day official visit to Singapore to woo investors. The Odisha government delegation visited Sembcorp Industries Ltd, where it explored Singapore's advancements in renewable energy and met Wong Kim Yin, Group President and CEO. Members of the delegation discussed Sembcorp's upcoming green ammonia project in Odisha as well as other renewable energy projects in India. The chief minister invited Yin and the Sembcorp officials to the 'Utkarsh Odisha Conclave' to be held in Bhubaneswar on January 28 and 29, next year. Majhi also met CT Metrix founder Edward Morton, B C Tan, chairman of UBCT, along with iHub Inc founder and CEO Sushant Patnaik, and discussed the developments in semiconductors, medical equipment manufacturing and smart city solutions. Stating that semiconductors and electronics manufacturing are a thrust sector for the state, he assured that the Odisha government will take proactive measures to ensure the development of a robust electronics ecosystem in the state. This is my first foreign visit as chief minister, and we chose Singapore for the Odisha business meet due to its thriving industrial ecosystem and innovative practices. Singapores excellence in infrastructure, logistics, and urban management presents valuable lessons for our rapidly urbanising state, Majhi said in the statement. India and Singapore share strong economic, strategic, and cultural ties, and Odisha is poised to enhance this partnership, he said. The CM said his government is committed to providing full facilitation for investors, offering opportunities in sectors like handloom, seafood, and skilled workers. Odishas strategic location on Indias eastern seaboard makes it a major investment hub, particularly for green fuels and renewable energy. Todays engagements provided us with valuable insights to further enhance our industrial ecosystem and attract global investments, said Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain. The high-level delegation led by Majhi visited Singapore on Saturday and scheduled to hold investors meet there on November 19 and 20. Apart from key industrialists of Singapore, industry leaders from Odisha, including Sunil Gupta from Vedanta Aluminium and representatives from leading business associations, are scheduled to attend the meet. BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 17. On November 16, a roundtable discussion on the "Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)" was held at the State Tax Service under the Ministry of Economy, Trend reports. The event brought together international experts, climate finance specialists, government representatives, private sector stakeholders, and auditors. Opening the event, Deputy Head of the State Tax Service Samira Musaeva explained that the goal of the meeting was to gain a deeper understanding of the CBAM requirementsa new climate policy tool introduced by the European Union and currently being phased in. The discussion focused on identifying potential challenges and exploring solutions for effective preparation. Musaeva highlighted the importance of striking a balance between addressing global climate change and ensuring economic growth. The roundtable, moderated by Eli Sandler, a specialist from Harvard University, included presentations by Kasia Klatczynska Lewis, partner at Ernst & Young, Nadia Picard, partner at PwC, and other experts. Participants shared insights on the potential impact of CBAM on businesses at both global and national levels, as well as the European Unions legislative framework for the mechanism. They also discussed the readiness of producers and exporters to adapt to these changes. It was noted that while the mechanism could lead to positive progress in combating climate change, its success will depend on fair global approaches, sustainable development, and environmental justice. Experts addressed questions and provided clarifications during the event. The Conrad Sangma-led NPP withdrew its support from the Manipur coalition government on Sunday amid continued violence in the state. Inter-communal clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities have resulted in at least 250 deaths and displaced around 60,000 people since 2023. A missive addressed to BJP chief JP Nadda conveyed deep concern over the law and order situation in Manipur and lambasted the Biren Singh government for failing to resolve the crisis. We strongly feel that the Manipur State Government under the leadership of Shri Biren Singh has completely failed to resolve the crisis and restore normalcy. Keeping the current situation in mind, the National People's Party has decided to withdraw its support to the Biren Singh led Government in the State of Manipur, with immediate effect, Conrad Sangma wrote. Also Read | Manipur violence: Amit Shah cuts Maharashtra visit short amid rising tensions The development follows a little more than a year after another ally the Kuki People's Alliance withdrew from the NDA. The exit of National People's Party will not affect administration as the BJP holds an absolute majority in the state. Manipur has become divided into two ethnic enclaves the Meitei controlled Imphal valley and the Kuki-dominated hills separated by a stretch of no-man's land monitored by federal forces. Meiteis account for about 53% of the state population while tribals including the Nagas and Kukis constitute little over 40% of the populace. An indefinite curfew was imposed on Saturday and internet and mobile services were suspended after protesters tried to storm the residences of several lawmakers including state Chief Minister N Biren Singh. Police arrested 23 people in connection with the incident on Sunday while hundreds defied the curfew to hold demonstations against the recent spurt of violence. At least 10 people from the Kuki-Zo community were killed earlier this week in a gunfight with the CRPF. The Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (a key organisation for the Kukis) claim they were village volunteers while the Manipur government has dubbed them militants. Three women and three children who lived in a relief camp within the Jiribam district also went missing during the gunfight with Meitei organisations insisting that they had been kidnapped by the retreating militants. The bodies of the missing women and children were recovered later in the week and sparked fresh protests. The Iran-Israel shadow war took a turn for the worse in April this year as Tehran launched an an unprecedented large-scale attack. More than 300 drones and missiles were fired overnight at Tel Aviv with an US-led coalition helping to intercept 99% of the weapons. That night, the mission was to shoot down drones with whatever weapons we had available to protect our ally. We ran out of missiles pretty quickly20 minutes maybe, Lt. Col. Curtis Voodoo Culver told CNN. Iran had vowed retaliation for what it called an Israeli strike on its Damascus consulate on April 1 that killed seven officers of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Officials in the country dubbed the strike on April 13 a punishment for Israeli crimes. Meanwhile the United States has pledged ironclad support for Israel and moved a vast array of military assets to the Middle East in recent months to deter attacks by Tehran or the Lebanon-based Hezbollah. American F-15 fighter pilots however found themselves at a significant disadvantage during the clash operating in total darkness against a barely visible target. They were also combating a far larger strike than the US military had anticipated. It was at this time that fighter pilot Major Benjamin Irish Coffey and weapons systems officer Captain Lacie Sonic Hester came up with a risky plan of action. The duo recalled flying dangerously close to an Iranian drone well below the minimum safe altitude for the F-15 Strike Eagle and trying to use a gun against the barely visible target in total darkness. "You feel the terrain rush, you feel yourself getting closer and closer to the ground. The risk was just too high to try again, Coffey told CNN. Iran and Israel have now traded missile strikes for almost a year amid soaring tensions over Israeli wars against its allies Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. The strikes have brought to the surface their years-long shadow war and fuelled fears of a wider Middle East conflict. Sofia Richie, social media personality and model, surprised fans when she revealed on the Therapuss podcast that her 5-month-old daughter, Eloise, already has her own phone. The disclosure, made during an interview with podcast host Shane, sparked a heated debate on social media platform X. Eloise has a little baby phone, Shane joked during the show, recounting his playful text exchanges with the infant. Richie, 26, confirmed the claim with a laugh, saying, She does! Shane elaborated on his interactions with Eloise, sharing how he regularly sends her cheerful messages. I say, Good morning, Eloise! he said. However, Richie clarified that the baby doesnt actually use the device herself. Instead, Whoever is with Eloise gets the phone, she explained, implying the texts are answered on her daughters behalf. The revelation quickly ignited a firestorm of reactions online, with many users expressing disbelief and disapproval at the idea of giving a phone to a baby. Social media backlash While Richie didnt elaborate on why Eloise has a phone, the incident has reignited conversations about parenting in the digital age. Critics argue that children are being exposed to technology too early, raising concerns about its impact on development and family dynamics. Comments poured in criticizing the move, with many questioning the logic behind it: Unbelievable, one commenter wrote, expressing disbelief. Another called the move horrible and psychotic, criticizing the idea of giving a phone to an infant. That is so sad and stupid! She is 5 months! another comment read, reflecting frustration over what some see as misplaced parenting priorities. The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the Department of Labor (DOL), announced on November 15 plans to issue 64,716 supplemental H-2B temporary nonagricultural worker visas for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025. This allocation is in addition to the congressionally mandated 66,000 H-2B visas available annually, matching the supplemental total issued in FY 2024. Supplemental H-2B visas to support US industries The H-2B program is crucial for industries such as hospitality, landscaping, and seafood processing, which rely on seasonal workers to meet labor demands. The supplemental visa allocation aims to address shortages of US workers while ensuring businesses can plan ahead for workforce needs. Worker protections and recruitment requirements DHS and DOL emphasized safeguards to protect both American and foreign workers. Employers are required to recruit US workers first and ensure fair wages and conditions. The program mandates that foreign workers are not exploited by employers, and labor market testing ensures that hiring H-2B workers does not negatively impact US workers. Visa Allocations for FY 2025 The supplemental visas include: 20,000 visas for nationals from Central America, Haiti, Colombia, Ecuador, and Costa Rica to deter irregular migration. 44,716 visas for returning workers who held H-2B status in the last three fiscal years. These visas will be distributed across the fiscal year, with a portion reserved for peak summer demand. Also Read | Indians are among highest international students in US Ensuring temporary and seasonal employment The H-2B program allows employers to hire noncitizens for temporary nonagricultural work, such as seasonal or peakload needs. Employers must obtain DOL certification confirming a shortage of US workers and ensure the employment does not adversely affect local wages and conditions. Workers may remain in H-2B status for up to three years, after which they must leave the US for at least three months before reapplying. Also Read | Top 5 visa-free countries for Indians Chinese leader Xi Jinping told US President Joe Biden that hes ready to work with Donald Trump to improve the relationship between the worlds biggest economies. Speaking in their final meeting before Trump takes office, Xi told Biden that the US and China shouldnt pursue decoupling and instead strive for peaceful existence over the long term. China is ready to work with the new US administration to maintain communication, expand cooperation and manage differences, so as to strive for a steady transition of the China-US relationship for the benefit of the two peoples, Xi said through a translator at the meeting in Lima, Peru. Only solidarity and cooperation can help humanity overcome current difficulties, Xi added. In an age of flourishing sci-tech revolution, neither decoupling nor supply chain disruption is a solution. Biden, speaking in response, said he was very proud of the progress between the two sides. These conversations prevent miscalculations and they ensure the competition between our two countries will not veer into conflict, the US leader said. The meeting is expected to be the last official gathering between the pair, whose relationship stretches back more than a decade to when both served as vice president for their nations, and comes at a period of heightened uncertainty and tension. Biden has just about two months before he hands power to Trump, who has threatened 60% tariffs on China a level that risks decimating trade between the worlds biggest economies. Early appointments by the president-elect including China hawks Marco Rubio as secretary of state and Mike Waltz as national security advisor suggest he is readying an adversarial stance toward Beijing. Biden and Xi have sought to stabilize relations and build on a summit a year ago in San Francisco, which reset ties after his administration shot down a Chinese spy balloon drifting over the continental US and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan, prompting Beijing to hold military exercises surrounding the island. Taiwan remains the biggest military flashpoint between the US and China, and the most sensitive issue for Xi. Still, a host of tensions remain following a tumultuous four years that saw both nations take steps to become more self-reliant in preparation for a potential conflict, even if one isnt inevitable or planned. The Biden administration has moved to deny Beijing advanced AI chips and other technology, pressuring US allies to comply with export controls designed to ensure the US maintains its military superiority over China. Ahead of the meeting, a senior US official said Biden was expected to warn Xi that attacks against critical US networks would only lead to further decoupling from Chinese-origin technology. Chinas state-sponsored hack of US telecommunications systems an effort to steal call records and communications from US political candidates and aides, including those from Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris campaigns extended to T-Mobile US Inc., the Wall Street Journal reported Saturday. China has denied any effort to interfere in US politics. More broadly, Biden aides described Saturdays meeting as a chance to check in on areas of concern. High on the list is Chinas support for Russias defense industrial base, which has helped Vladimir Putin sustain his war in Ukraine. On Friday, Biden met with the leaders of Japan and South Korea to discuss their concerns over growing regional support for Russia, including North Koreas recent deployment of troops to help Russias war effort. The strengthening alliance between Putin and Kim Jong Un is becoming a headache for Xi. Although hes supported both Russia and North Korea, Xi has sought to portray Beijing as neutral regarding the war in Ukraine and pushed to improve ties with the US and its allies, not least to help ensure exports continue to buoy Chinas struggling economy. The Kim-Putin partnership risks adding economic pressure on China, and it undermines Xis argument that the US shouldnt have military alliances in the Indo-Pacific region. Bidens team is also eager to avoid conflicts erupting in the South China Sea or between China and Taiwain, which White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan as the biggest risk for the incoming administration. That would be catastrophic for everyone involved: for Taiwan, for Beijing, for us, for the world, Sullivan on Thursday. I wouldnt necessarily say, given how we have managed cross-strait relations, that that should be something that is at heightened risk in 2025, but because of the size of the risk, even if its not that likely, its something that has to be at the top of the agenda. For Xi, the meeting is also an opportunity to take stock of the relationship as he considers how to brace his country for a possible tariff shock when Trump returns to the White House. Chinas manufacturing push has helped drive export growth to the fastest in two years, buoying an economy struggling with a prolonged real estate slump and deflation. While China saw some pick up in domestic demand in October after rolling stimulus measures, massive tariffs risk shaving off several percentage points off annual economic growth. Xi on Friday expressed full confidence in hitting this years target of about 5%. With that threat looming, Xi has spent much of the APEC summit positioning China as a more reliable free trade partner. He held meetings with a range of US allies and partners and inaugurated a new $1.3 billion deep-water port in Peru, while calling on APEC leaders to tear down the walls impeding trade, investment, technology and services. Iran is likely to see a major change in leadership this year amid escalating tensions with Israel and the looming threat of a wider Middle East war. Speculative reports suggest that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has slipped into a coma and remains seriously ill. Officials are believed to have picked a successor to the 85-year-old during a secret meeting last month. According to reports, Tehran secretly picked its successor in late September with the ailing Ayatollah Ali Khamenei possibly abdicating before his death. An Iran International report suggests that his son Mojtaba Khamenei will assume the top role while his father is alive. Several posts on social media now claim that Khamenei has slipped into a coma despite no official confirmation regarding his health. The Iranian leader was last spotted on November 7 as he addressed the sixth session of the Assembly of Experts of the Leadership within the Imam Khomeini Hussainiyah. Prior to that he had met with university students in Tehran to mark Students Day on November 2. Also Read | How US pilots fought hundreds of Iranian missiles, drones in pitch darkness 60 members of the Iranian Assembly of Experts reportedly met in secrecy on September 26 in acquiescence to a demand by Khamenei. They were ordered to take a decision on the succession immediately and with utmost confidentiality. The candidate and procedure were both met with resistance and reports suggest that Khamenei and his representatives also issued direct threats. The need for secrecy was also fuelled by the possiblity of widespread public protests. A New York Times report on October 27 also backed the assertion claiming that Khamenei was suffering from a major medical condition and reiterating claims that his son Mojtaba would become the successor. Khamenei had been serving as the President of Iran when he took over as Supreme Leader in 1989. He is the longest serving head of state in the Middle East. Mojtaba has taken on an increasingly pivotal role in Iranian decisions surpassing key contenders such as late president Ebrahim Raisi. His appointment has now become a somewhat foregone conclusion despite his dearth of experience and non-participation in any formal government positions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on addressed the Indian diaspora in Nijeria's Abuja on 17 November and said that after holding extensive talks with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that focused on shoring up bilateral ties in key sectors such as defence, trade, energy and agriculture. Also Read | PM Modi lauds The Sabarmati Report for portrayal of Godhra train burning case In his address, PM Modi said that he has brought the smell of India's soil and the best wishes of crores of Indians. "This is my first visit to Nigeria as the PM, but I've not come here alone, and I've brought the smell of India's soil and the best wishes of crores of Indians," PTI quoted PM Modi as saying. Here's what he said: 1) PM Modi said, This is my first visit to Nigeria as the PM, but I've not come here alone, and I've brought the smell of India's soil and the best wishes of crores of Indians. 2) On receiving the Nigeria's national award, PM Modi said, "I would like to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and people of Nigeria for the warm welcome that I've received here. President Tinubu has also conferred me with Nigeria's national award. This honour belongs to the crores of people of India. This also belongs to all of you - the Indians living here in Nigeria." 3) Interacting with Indian diaspora in Nigeria, PM said, "Even though we (people of India) go to other nations, we never forget our tradition of common good... For us, the entire world is one family." 4) "When India became independent, there were several challenges in front of us. Following Independence, our ancestors worked a lot hard and faced those challenges. And today, entire world is discussing India's progress," he added. 5) In just 10 years, the size of the Indian economy has doubled, and the country has become the fifth largest global economy. And that day is not far when India will become a 5 trillion-dollar economy. 6) "India's defence export has increased almost 30 times. Today, we export defence equipment to more than 100 countries of the world... India has made this resolve that soon, we will let Indians into the space through our Gaganyan. India is going to have a space station...," he said, adding, "60 years took our economy to cross $ 1 trillion... In the last one decade, India has added almost $ 2 trillion to our economy." 7) "Those people of Nigeria, who are in their 40s and 60s - you'll find many of them who are taught by an Indian teacher... Many of the Indians are in Nigeria who have established their businesses and have contributed to the development of Nigeria...," he said. Nigeria will honour Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the Grand Commander of The Order of the Niger (GCON), making him the second foreign dignitary to receive this prestigious award. As reported by ANI, the only other foreign recipient of the GCON is Queen Elizabeth II, who was awarded the honor in 1969. This recognition underscores the strong diplomatic ties between India and Nigeria, highlighting Modi's significant role in strengthening bilateral relations. This will be the 17th such international award being conferred to PM Modi by a country. PM Modi on Sunday arrived in Nigeria on the first leg of his three-nation tour. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a three-nation tour to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana scheduled from November 17 to November 21.PM Modi issued a statement indicating his first stop in Nigeria, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's invitation, aimed at strengthening strategic ties between both countries. "At the invitation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this will be my first visit to Nigeria, which is our close partner in the West African region. My visit will be an opportunity to build upon our Strategic Partnership that is based on shared belief in democracy and pluralism. I am also eagerly looking forward to meeting the Indian community and friends from Nigeria who have sent me warm welcome messages in Hindi," the statement said. India and Nigeria enjoy warm, friendly, and deep-rooted bilateral relations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Nigeria marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 17 years. India is emerging as a key development partner for Nigeria, providing assistance through concessional loans and capacity-building training programs. India and Nigeria have been strategic partners since 2007, with expanding collaboration in areas such as economic development, energy, and defense. Over 200 Indian companies have invested more than USD 27 billion in critical sectors in Nigeria, strengthening their bilateral ties. The two countries also share a strong development cooperation partnership. During his visit, PM Modi is set to hold talks to review the progress of the strategic partnership and explore new avenues to further enhance the bilateral relationship between India and Nigeria. The Glamour Vacuum- Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Ready to Fill the Void: Royal historian Dr. Tessa Dunlop has expressed concern over a "glamour vacuum" potentially forming within the royal family. She suggested that while the royals might view themselves as above "glitzy gimmicks," they should be cautious. "That would be a mistake," she stated, pointing out that ex-royals Prince Harry and Meghan Markle could easily step in to fill this void. Harry and Meghan are instinctively glamorous with bundles of razzmatazz, Dunlop said, noting how the Duke and Duchess of Sussex continue to captivate audiences worldwide despite their estrangement from the royal family. Given their status as former senior royals with a magnetic presence, Dunlop warned William to be mindful of the impact Harry and Meghan could have on the royal brand. "It would never do for the Royal brand to be upstaged," she added. As the royal family navigates its future, the ongoing public tension between Prince William and the Sussexes could play a significant role in shaping the monarchys path forward. Prince William's vision for monarchy may get upstaged by Harry, Meghan In a recent interview, Prince William shared his aspirations for the future of the British monarchy, focusing on empathetic leadership and a commitment to supporting those in need. His comments, which reflect his vision for a modern, relatable monarchy, come at a time when the royal family is facing significant changes. Also Read | Prince Harry finds spot in TIME100 Climate 2024 list, brother William left out While William is shaping a future that places importance on charitable efforts and connecting with the public, royal historian Dr. Tessa Dunlop has issued a stark warning. King Charles Appears Alone Amid Royal Changes During the premiere of Gladiator II in Leicester Square, King Charles appeared solo, as Queen Camilla continues to recover from a chest infection. Dr. Dunlop pointed out the significance of this moment, highlighting the stark contrast between William's modern approach and his fathers more traditional royal duty. Also Read | Kate Middleton joins Prince William in first formal appearance | See photos "He was up against Gladiatorial men, (squaring up to Paul Mescal and Pedro Pascal is no mean feat) but the King looked inescapably alone on the red carpet in Leicester Square last night. There was no retro glamor, no tinsel, no tiaras," Dunlop said, reflecting on the King's appearance. She added, Even Camilla (still battling a nasty chest infection), was missing. To compensate, I longed for the King to wear an ermine gown, or pop a crown on his head. Instead, he dutifully made his way down the line of stellar names. Kate Middletons Return and Williams Charity Work Dr. Dunlop also noted Kate Middletons first major royal appearance since her cancer treatment, which took place at the Remembrance Sunday event. Dunlop described this as a "painful reminder" of whats missing from the royal family, as the absence of glamour and spectacle was keenly felt. Harry and Meghan are instinctively glamorous with bundles of razzmatazz. The historian then turned her attention to Williams recent homelessness documentary and his ongoing Earthshot Prize initiatives. While William is praised for these efforts, Dunlop cautioned that the royal family must balance charitable work with a sense of grandeur to maintain public interest. Also Read | Kate Middleton joins Prince William in first formal appearance | See photos "This is definitely William's happy space Earthshot speeches and homeless documentaries are his version of royalty with a small 'r'. But royalty needs to be careful. The public will tolerate a bit of charitable hectoring but only if accompanied with a large dollop of fairytale glamor," Dunlop warned. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed confidence that the incoming US administration could expedite the end of the war in Ukraine. He highlighted the importance of the new teams commitment to achieving peace, in a radio interview with Suspilne News aired on Saturday. Certainly, with the policies of this team that will now lead the White House, the war will end sooner, Zelenskyy said. This is their approach, their promise to their society, and it is also very important to them, he added. Direct engagement with US leadership Zelenskyy underlined the importance of direct dialogue with US President-elect Donald Trump. I, as the president of Ukraine, will only take seriously a conversation with the president of the United States of America, with all due respect to any entourage, to any people, he said. When asked about Trumps potential demands for Ukraine to enter negotiations with Russia, Zelenskyy rejected any notion of coercion. We are an independent country, the rhetoric of sit and listen does not work with us, he remarked. Zelenskyy aims for peace in 2025 Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraines determination to see the war conclude by next year through diplomatic efforts. From our side, we must do everything so that this war ends next year, ends through diplomatic means, he stated. Focus on diplomacy and military aid He also highlighted Ukraines preparation for new military support, including long-awaited equipment and reserves. In order to stop the Russian army, new reserves, kitted out with the equipment we have been waiting for so long, will now arrive, Zelenskyy said. Constructive engagement with the US Zelenskyy referred to a positive meeting with the US leadership in September and reiterated Ukraines readiness to engage constructively in peace efforts. We will do everything that depends on us (to ensure a meeting), he said. The comments come as global attention shifts to the incoming US administration under Donald Trump's approach to resolving the ongoing conflict. Also Read | How the maker of Nerf guns will navigate Trumps tariffs on China Firm stance against Minsk-3 The Ukrainian President reiterated his opposition to any new agreements akin to the Minsk accords, which failed to prevent Russian aggression. There will be no Minsk-3; what we need is real peace, he declared, emphasizing that Ukraine would not entertain fruitless peace talks that compromise its sovereignty. Trumps campaign promise and call with Zelenskyy President-elect Donald Trump, who has repeatedly claimed he could end the war in 24 hours, had a 25-minute phone call with Zelenskyy following his election victory. The conversation, which included Elon Musk, focused on the possibility of brokering peace. While Zelenskyy described the discussion as constructive. Russia denies alleged Putin-Trump call Russian officials refuted media reports of a phone call between Trump and President Vladimir Putin. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed the claims as pure fiction and stated that there were no concrete plans for future communications between the two leaders. The reports, first published by The Washington Post and Reuters, suggested Trump had advised Putin against escalating the conflict. Also Read | Zelenskyy emphasizes the risks in Trumps call for a quick end to war BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 17. Azerbaijan is a key strategic partner of Bulgaria in the South Caucasus and the Black Sea region, said Bulgarian President Rumen Radev, Trend reports. In an interview with Caspian Energy magazine, Radev spoke about the deepening of bilateral relations, highlighting the intensive political dialogues between the two countries in recent years. The latest issue of the magazine focuses on the 29th session of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), taking place in Azerbaijan. Radev emphasized the importance of cooperation in strengthening resilience by responding effectively to climate change. He also noted the expansion of ties between Bulgaria and Azerbaijan, citing the Joint Declaration on Strengthening Strategic Partnership, signed in May in Baku with President Ilham Aliyev, as a milestone in the relationship. Additionally, Radev described the opening of SOCAR's office in Sofia as a positive development and stressed the need to foster connections between business communities, particularly in areas like high-tech industries, drones, the automotive sector, and clean technologies. Pakistans leading constitutional religious body came under severe criticism after it issued an edict terming the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to access blocked content on the internet as 'un-Islamic'. The unprecedented proclamation by the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII), which advises parliament on aligning legislation with Islamic teachings, enraged digital rights activists as well as some religious scholars. According to the Dawn newspaper, the CII chief Raghib Naeemi said that using VPNs to access immoral or illegal content was against Sharia. In a social media statement on Saturday, Maulana Tariq Jameel, a prominent religious scholar, said if watching adult content or blasphemous material was an issue then mobile phones should be declared un-Islamic before labelling VPNs as such. Senator Allama Nasir Abbas, the chief of Shia organisation Majlis Wahdat Muslimeen (MWM), said the country was being ruled by an incompetent and corrupt elite who were not even the true representatives of the people. They make laws in such a way and are using decrees as per their whims, Senator Abbas added. Wahaj Siraj, the CEO of telecom company Nayatel, said technology has always been neutral and only its use or misuse made it Halal or Haram. The issue of VPNs came to light after the Interior Ministry asked the Pakistan Telecom Authority, the electronic media watchdog, to take action against their illegal use as they were being used for terrorism. Nighat Dad, the executive director of the Digital Rights Foundation, said the action to block VPNs was contradictory to the rights of privacy granted in the Constitution. This move was only to target certain social media users, she claimed. Senator Palwasha Khan has called a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecom, which she heads, on November 18. The meeting will discuss restrictions on what the telecom regulator called illegal use of VPNs in Pakistan. Khan questioned if the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will be monitoring the content watched by users. A CII member told Dawn that the statement was Naeemis personal views and not the councils decision. He said watching immoral content by using technology cannot be categorised as a religious issue. After Donald Trump first became president of the United States in 2016, it soon became clearas was put to me by a seasoned, two-drinks down diplomatthat he hates China and likes Russia, bad for Europe and good for India." Whatever we might make of the consequences, that phrase turned out to be an apt summary of his first term in office. Will it hold true for his second term as well? Broadly, yes. His utterances and appointments suggest a reinvigorated confrontation of China, a new outreach toward Russia, leaving Western Europe in consternation and placing India in a fairly good position. However, whether or not Trumps geopolitical orientation makes America great again from a domestic perspective, its international standing will likely continue to decline. Double standards are stock-in-trade in realpolitik, but most people find it hard to accept two contradictory principles simultaneously. For countries that do not have a direct stake in the Ukraine and Gaza conflicts, the Joe Biden administrations positions on these two wars exposed the hollowness of the US claim that it seeks a rules-based international order. The recent surge in interest in Brics, perhaps the most illogical international grouping ever created, demonstrates many countries desire for non-American, non-Western options. It will be extremely hard for the US to regain the moral high ground and epistemological dominance that it enjoyed for decades and that reduced the costs of its diplomacy. Trump will probably not even try. The US will have to deal with friction in its international dealings. This means more resistance, more heat and more wear and tear. Lubrication can help but cant avoid friction completely. Back to the question of how a second Trump administration will deal with China. It is reasonable to expect that the US will play hardball on trade. Similarly, members of his foreign policy team say they want to deter Chinaespecially from invading Taiwanusing military strength. This will be the baseline of Washingtons approach, but there are reasons to expect that its actual positions will diverge from it. Also read: US elections 2024 outcome could reshape India trade ties Thats because even in an administration personally dominated by Trump, foreign policy is an outcome of complex interactions among various actors, interests and circumstances. Now he has declared himself strongly in favour of tariffs and will be inclined to pursue the trade war with China he initiated during his previous term. There are notable economic hawks in his team. But there is also Elon Musk, who might not see economic ties the same way as Washingtons trade warriors. Wall Street is not a great fan of this trade war either. Finally, Beijing in 2024 is far more prepared for a geo-economic confrontation with Washington than it was five years ago. Trumps other policies might limit the extent to which the US wins international support. He has threatened Western Europe with a trifecta: reneging on climate deals, walking away from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (Nato) and warming up to Russia. A standoff with Mexico is on the cards over immigration. Brazil under Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has made liberal democracy and environmental protection important priorities. Trump doesnt seem to care much about either. Japan and South Korea will be concerned if Washington tries to accommodate North Korea. South East Asian countries see tariffs as a serious threat to their prosperity. Malaysia and Indonesia already see the US as complicit in the Israeli military campaigns in Gaza and Lebanon. Arab leaders, once favourably inclined towards the US-promoted Abraham Accords, cant move on that front until the Palestinian issue is settled. Right-wing Israeli leaders and their counterparts in Washington have their own ideas on what that settlement would look like. This means countries around the world are looking for self-sufficiency, new alignment options or better ties with China. Quite frequently, all of these. Only the biggest economies have the luxury of pursuing self-sufficiency, although none can achieve it. Also read: The US elections will have a big impact on the climate change fight Most countries have to decide between entering plurilateral arrangements that balance US and China, or jumping onto Beijings bandwagon. For many countries in Eastern Europe, Africa, South America, South East Asia and the Pacific, China will look a lot more attractive, not least because Americas shine is dimming fast. The Economist notes that Americas Trump turn is not new, but a return to an old idea of America. Before the fight against fascism convinced [Franklin D. Roosevelt] that it was in his countrys interest to help bring order and prosperity to the world, the country was hostile towards immigration, scornful of trade and sceptical of foreign entanglements. In the 1920s and 1930s that led to dark times. It could do so again." India, as external affairs minister S. Jaishankar put it, is not nervous about the US under Trump. We start with reasonably good stores of diplomatic and political capital between the Narendra Modi and Trump governments. This should allow us to withstand the ordinary pulls and pushes of world affairs. The risk, though, is that these pulls and pushes may become extraordinary. Amid the electoral campaign for the state Assembly elections in Maharashtra is in the last phase, former BJP MP Navneet Rana and her supporters were allegedly attacked by a group of people when she arrived for a public meeting in Amravati district, news agency PTI quoted police as saying on Sunday. Following the mob attack, the police have registered a first information report (FIR) against 45 people and detained three of them in connection with the incident which occurred at Khallar village on Saturday night. Amravati (Rural) Superintendent of Police Vishal Anand said, as quoted by PTI, "Rana arrived with her supporters to attend a public meeting around 10 pm when some persons from the crowd allegedly used objectionable words and made lewd gestures at her." According to the details, Rana's supporters clashed with the accused in the crowd, while chairs were thrown at the BJP leader and her entourage. However, no one was injured in the incident. The official said Rana later reached a nearby police station and lodged the complaint. Anand said, "We have registered an FIR under sections of rioting, attempt to murder and other relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita and Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Five people have been named, while 40 were unidentified. Three people have been detained." The Assembly election in Maharashtra is scheduled to take place in a single phase on 20 November, and the votes will be counted on 24 November. Controversial leader: Rana has often sparked controversy with her statements, and due to this, she has faced criticism from opposition leaders. During the Lok Sabha election rally in Gujarat, Rana said that those who don't want to say 'Jai Shri Ram' can go to Pakistan. In May, while addressing a rally in Maharashtra's Jalgaon hit out at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi claiming that the grand old party works on directions of Pakistan. She also openly challenged AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi and his brother Akbaruddin Owaisi, saying that if police were removed from duty for 15 seconds, the brothers would not know from where they came and where they went. Maharashtra Assembly Polls: Mumbai is expected to experience a series of dry days in November as the city readies for the Maharashtra Assembly elections in 2024. Dry days refer to specific days when the sale of alcohol is completely prohibited in a region, typically during significant national, religious, or cultural events. According to the Election Commission of India (ECI), the sale of liquor will be banned across Mumbai and other cities during the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections in 2024. The Election Commission has announced that polling for the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections will be held on November 20, with all 288 Assembly constituencies across the state voting in a single phase. The EC has outlined the following schedule for liquor bans in Mumbai and other cities around the Maharashtra Assembly elections 2024: November 18: The sale of liquor will be banned after 6 pm across Mumbai and other cities. November 19: A full dry day will be observed in Mumbai, a day before the crucial Assembly polls. November 20: On voting day, the sale of liquor will remain prohibited in Mumbai until 6 pm. November 23: Liquor sales will be banned until 6 pm as the Election Commission announces the Maharashtra Assembly Election 2024 results. These dry days are part of the broader effort to maintain order and ensure the smooth conduct of the electoral process, with restrictions on alcohol sales enforced around key events such as elections and significant cultural or religious observances. Moreover, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has declared a holiday on November 20 for all employees working in businesses and offices within BMC limits to ensure that people can cast their votes in the Maharashtra Assembly elections. In a significant political development, the National Peoples Party (NPP), led by Conrad Sangma, has announced its decision to withdraw support from the BJP-led government in Manipur over deteriorating law and order situation. The NPP holds seven seats in the 60-member legislative assembly, but the move is unlikely to destabilize the government, as the BJP maintains a clear majority with 32 seats. Kuki Peoples Alliance (KPA) which has 2 seats withdrew its support to Biren Singh government in August 2023. Despite the withdrawal of these nine MLAs, the BJP remains in a strong position in Manipur with its 32 seats, ensuring it retains a simple majority in the assembly. The BJPs allies, including JD(U) with six seats, and the Naga Peoples Front (NPF) with five seats, continue to support the government, alongside three independent MLAs. This solidifies the BJP's control, even as cracks appear within the coalition. The decision by the KPA and the NPP to part ways highlights growing tensions within the ruling alliance, although it does not immediately impact the BJPs ability to govern. Seat distribution in Manipur Assembly: BJP holds majority Here is the current seat distribution among the political parties in the state: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP): 32 seats Naga Peoples Front (NPF): 5 seats National Peoples Party (NPP): 7 seats Janata Dal (United) [JDU]: 6 seats Indian National Congress (INC): 5 seats Kuki Peoples Alliance (KPA): 2 seats Independents (IND): 3 seats Manipur violence escalates: Protesters attack MLAs' residences Manipur remains in turmoil as ethnic tensions between the Imphal Valley-based Meitei community and the Kuki-Zo groups from the adjoining hills continue to escalate. The state has seen more than 200 deaths and widespread arson since May last year, with property damages running into several crore rupees. Fresh violence erupted on Saturday night, despite the imposition of an indefinite curfew following protests triggered by the killings of three women and children by militants in Jiribam district. In retaliation, angry mobs attacked the homes of three state ministers and six MLAs. The residences of Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Govindas Konthoujam, BJP MLA Y Radheshyam, BJP MLA Paonam Brojen, and Congress MLA Thokchom Lokeshwar were torched by the protesters. By Sunday morning, a tense calm prevailed across the five districts of the Imphal Valley, where the curfew was enforced and internet services suspended. Police arrested 23 individuals on Sunday for ransacking and setting fire to lawmakers' and ministers' residences, while hundreds defied the curfew to protest the recent killings. The violence, marking the second day of unrest, has created a standoff in Imphal, the state capital. Further fueling tensions, the body of a woman, believed to be part of a missing Meitei family, was found in a river on Sunday, while three other bodies, including two children, were recovered on Friday. Last week, a 31-year-old woman from the Kuki community was burned alive, an act that has sparked outrage. Kuki groups have accused Meitei militants of being behind the incident, deepening the divisions in the state. Hours after Delhi Transport & Environment Minister and senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Kailash Gahlot on Sunday resigned from the partys primary membership, AAP alleged has taken a 'Modi Washing Machine' jibe at the opposition BJP. His resignation has been accepted by Delhi CM Atishi. Earlier, Gahlot in his resignation letter addressed to AAPs National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal and Delhi Chief Minister Atishi had cited unfulfilled promises and recent controversies as reasons for stepping down. Also Read | Independence Day 2024: Here is why Kailash Gahlot was chosen to unfurl Tricolour Reacting to Gahlot's resignation, AAP's Rayja Sabha MP Sanjay Singh hit out at BJP and accused the oppositioin of playing dirty politics. He said, as quoted by ANI, "Kailash Gahlot's resignation is a part of BJP's dirty politics and conspiracy. BJP govt conducted ED raids on him. Income Tax raids were conducted at his residence for several days. BJP put an allegation of 112 crores on him. Pressure was created on him due to which Kailash Gahlot had to take this step. He did not have any option other than joining BJP." He added, Kailash Gahlot's resignation is a part of BJP's dirty politics and controversy. Kailash Gahlot was being pressured through ED-CBI raids and he is speaking as per the BJP's script. The Modi Washing Machine has been activated ahead of Delhi elections. Now many leaders will be taken into BJP through this. AAP spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar said, "Two of their (BJP) big leaders are joining us today. Since there are elections, all this will keep happening." She added, Elections are underway and the conspiracies of BJP have started. ED and CBI have been activated, There were several cases of ED and CBI on Kailash Gahlot and his family. So, he thought it was better to join the BJP rather than go to jail...You can see his social media posts, he was working for AAP even 14-15 hours ago...The struggle in jail is tough, so he decided to join BJP. However, BJP claimed that AAP is sinking. BJP leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa said, The AAP boat is sinking and everyone is just trying to save themselves. Kailash Gehlot has validated everything we have always been saying... It is very evident that Arvind Kejriwal is a corrupt man. BJP leader Manoj Tiwari on Kailash Gahlot quitting AAP said, With the resignation of Kailash Gahlot, AAP has finished. He was Transport Minister, was in top three leaders of the party. He used to hold an important ministry. With him endorsing what whole Delhi is alleging that AAP does not have intention to serve the state, it is a big thing. AAP has finished. After his quitting, many others would be mulling to leave the party. Congress leader Ragini Nayak while reacting on Kailash Gahlot quitting AAP, said, I have not been able to read the letter... Whatever the reasons are, you have to scratch on the surface to know what lays beneath. So, time will tell if it was a matter of corruption or was this because of any temptation. Also Read | ED questions Delhi minister Kailash Gahlot for 5 hours in excise policy case Ex-BJP MLA Anil Jha joins AAP: Meanwhile, former BJP MLA Anil Jha joins AAP in the presence of AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi. Addressing a press conference, Arvind Kejriwal said, "There are two governments in Delhi, one is the state government and the other is the central government. Both have power and resources. The centre has a lot of money. Delhi Govt is a small govt. The Delhi government has done so much work for the Purvanchal people. Amit Shah and BJP should tell what they did for the people of Purvanchal. They did not have the intention. Why should the Purvanchal community vote for them?" President-elect Donald Trumps push for peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine is finding growing acceptance among Ukraines European allies, who increasingly worry that time isnt on Ukraines side in the war. While European leaders have started discussions to see whether they could fill any funding gap for Kyiv if the incoming Trump administration cuts off support, officials in many capitals recognize that an off-ramp to the conflict appears increasingly necessary. They note how Russia is gaining ground as Ukraine struggles for troops and weapons. The increased alignment between Europe and the Trump administration over the openness for talks is a sharp turnaround from even six months ago. Back then, European officials looked in dread at the Trump teams pledge to end the war with swift negotiations amid fears that the former president would cut a deal with the Kremlin at Ukraines expense. Where concerns remain deep in Europe, however, is over the degree to which the Trump administration will deny Ukraine agency over the shape of a diplomatic settlement. European leaders also worry about which Russian demands the president-elect is willing to accept as part of a cease-fire or peace agreement. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has praised Trump and expressed hope that his tough talk about American power can force Moscow to make peace. But Zelensky has also raised concerns about the risks of talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. After German Chancellor Olaf Scholz spoke with Putin on Friday, Zelensky said the call risked opening a Pandoras box" in that it could lead to further calls amounting to just a lot of words." This is exactly what Putin has wanted for a long time: It is crucial for him to weaken his isolation, Russias isolation," Zelensky said in his evening video address. And to engage in negotiations, ordinary negotiations, that will lead to nothing. As he has been doing for decades." Still, the Trump transition is increasingly confident that Ukraine is more amenable to holding peace talks with Russia than it acknowledges in public. Trump and his senior advisers believe that Ukraine, given battlefield setbacks, will soon have little choice but to sit at the negotiating table. View Full Image German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, right, spoke by phone Friday with Vladimir Putin. Photo: Steffen Kugler/Reuters Ukrainian officials publicly affirm that their aim is still to liberate the nearly 20% of their territory that Russia is occupying. That position is broadly supported by Ukrainians, but acceptance of potential territorial concessions is growing as Russia is moving forward slowly but steadily on the main eastern front despite heavy losses. A poll conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology in October showed 32% of respondents were ready to give up some territory in return for an end to the war and preservation of the countrys independence. That was up from 14% a year earlier, while the majority are still against any acknowledgment of lost land. Zelenskys own victory plan," presented in recent weeks in Western capitals, focuses on securing weapons and security guarantees for Ukraine that would deter Russia from further attacks. A real peace, Zelensky has said, cant be a temporary cease-fire that would allow Russia to rearm and then launch a fresh invasion. Foreign officials and advisers who have spoken with Ukraines leadership say Kyiv is nervous about Trump but fear that a Harris administration would have continued the slow suffocation. Trump at least brings uncertainty, including to Moscow, which Kyiv feels it can exploit. The big question that remains is how Trump will proceedand whether Putin will engage in good faith negotiations. His advisers have come up with various plans, all of them significantly breaking from the Biden administrations as long as it takes" approach. The proposals, if adopted into a final Ukraine-Russia deal, could see Ukraine refrain from joining the North Atlantic Treaty Organization for 20 years while it accepts more weapons to deter a renewed Russian invasion. View Full Image Hungarys Viktor Orban has urged Europe to shift to Trumps strategy of seeking a swift end to the war. Photo: Attila Kisbenedek/Agence France-Presse/Getty Images While the current German government has made clear it is against Ukraines entry into NATO in coming years, it is unclear if other European allies would go along with that, however, even if they agree that there is a need to start end-of-war talks. Scholz spoke with Putin on Friday, a spokesman for the German leader said, the first time the two men had spoken in almost two years. While Scholz condemned Moscows continued war on Ukraine and urged Putin to withdraw his troops, reiterating Germanys longstanding position on the war, according to the spokesman, the call was notable in marking the resumption of direct contacts between Putin and the West. During the exchange, Scholz urged Putin to enter negotiations with Ukraine aimed at achieving a just and durable piece, the spokesman said. Scholz reiterated Germanys determination to continue supporting Ukraine against Russias aggression. After the call, the Kremlin said Moscow had long been ready to negotiate an agreement to end the conflict and that should take into account the security interests of the Russian Federation, proceed from the new territorial realities andaddress the root causes of the conflict." View Full Image Kyiv residents took shelter in a subway station last month. Photo: Anatolii Stepanov/Agence France-Presse/Getty Images The statement alluded to Russias position that Ukraine should recognize Russias territorial gains in Ukraine and give assurances of neutrality going forward. At a summit in Budapest last week, European leaders discussed for the first time what to do if the U.S. shut off assistance to Ukraine after Trump takes office in January. However, after a series of phone calls with the president-elect, European officials struck a somewhat more optimistic note, saying that while Trump appeared determined to seek a diplomatic end to the fighting, he was receptive to warnings that he must extract real concessions from Putin and that showing weakness in Ukraine could encourage Moscows ally China to be more aggressive in its region. In most capitals, the formal message remains that Europe will support Ukraine as long as necessary. That is a view firmly supported in some countries such as Poland, the Baltic states and Scandinavian states. But there was caution from French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in the Budapest discussions about whether Europe could provide the military, budget and humanitarian assistance Ukraine needs if Trump cuts U.S. funding. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has long been calling for Europe to shift to Trumps strategy of seeking a swift end to the war. His argument that Europe lacks a realistic strategy for achieving what it says it wantsa Ukrainian victory recovering its territoryis being echoed even in countries that are far more supportive of Kyiv. Indeed, even in some of Europes more supportive capitals, the hope now is that Ukraine can prevent Russia from winning the war despite the huge cost to Moscow in human and economic terms. That would preserve an independent Ukraine, even if territory has to be ceded for now. An earlier end to the fighting appears more likely to secure that goal, some diplomats say. Yet there are real concerns in Europe as well. There is uncertainty about what the president-elect will settle for in talks if Putin doesnt engage seriously in negotiations and seeks to tighten Moscows grip on Ukraine, a scenario that senior U.S. and European officials believe is likely. If Ukraine is kept out of NATO, European officials say Ukraine must be provided with sufficient military support so that it can fend off future Russian attacksand the officials want to see the U.S. continue to support those efforts. They also want to ensure that both Ukraine and Europe have a seat at the table in deciding the fate of the conflict and Europes future security. Some senior European diplomats have told their capitals they also need to be prepared for a possible Trump push for European troops to provide security guarantees for Ukraine and to monitor the cease-fire on the Ukrainian side of a contact line, which could stretch hundreds of miles. Any such decision could be politically challenging for European governments, including Europes nuclear powers, Britain and France. Doing so without any U.S. involvement or pledge of support if Russia resumes the war in future would make such a step even riskier. Bertrand Benoit contributed to this article. Write to Laurence Norman at laurence.norman@wsj.com and Alexander Ward at alex.ward@wsj.com BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 17. A session titled "Efforts to safeguard health and food security in the face of a changing climate" has been held in Baku as part of the Parliamentary Meeting held alongside COP29, Trend reports. The event is jointly organized by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and Azerbaijani Parliament. The session will focus on the effects of climate change on human health, with particular attention to the challenges posed by food insecurity. Participants will discuss how parliaments can adopt comprehensive and collaborative approaches to address issues related to health and climate. The agenda also includes exploring strategies to reduce losses in the agricultural and fisheries sectors, which are significant contributors to food insecurity and malnutrition. IPU Vice-President from Azerbaijan, MP Sevil Mikayilova is also taking part in the event. The 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) kicked off in Baku on November 11. The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, established at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in June 1992, aims to prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system. COP, which stands for Conference of the Parties, is the conventions highest decision-making body, tasked with overseeing its implementation. The convention includes 198 member states. COP meetings are typically held annually unless otherwise decided. The first COP meeting was held in March 1995 in Berlin, and its secretariat is based in Bonn, Germany. The Frazier Avenue wreck shook the community last November when a drunk driver struck a mother and her one-year-old son, and today, community members gathered in Coolidge Park to remember the lives lost a year later. Members of the North Chattanooga Neighborhood Association and the Northshore Merchants Collective hosted a series of events throughout the day to remember Anna and Jonathon Devia. Several continue to advocate for change on Frazier Avenue One business owner says an Action Committee is in place to discuss ideas for traffic patterns to keep pedestrians safe. Todays ceremony was a healing moment for our communityto come together to take time to share our stories, our sorrows and our joys, says Geno Wallace, member of the Northshore Merchants Collective. People gathered at The Walker Pavilion to paint butterflies, which will be part of a mural that can be seen on one of the buildings off of Frazier Avenue. Then, they visited the spot where the city of Chattanooga will be planting a magnolia tree in commemoration of the Devia family. They invited people to take part in a forest bathing and ground blessing ceremony, a ritual performed to purify and bless the area. The evening concluded with a candlelit vigil and silent walk to the corner of Forest and Frazier Avenue, the location where the incident occurred. Its a beautiful event to honor their lives, Adolfo Devia, Annas brother-in-law, says. The theme of the days events: transformation with the passing of time. At the time of the incident, the Devia family were foreigners to the city. Now, they feel as though theyve become a part of it. Devia expressed his gratitude to the citys residents for stepping up in a time of need. Community has the power to change this tragedy, he says. Wallace, born and raised in the Northshore Chattanooga area, says hes just one of many who felt the need to support the family. I felt compelled in our community to step in and help support them, and theyve become a part of my family, he says. If I were out of town visiting, and something horrific happened to my family, I would hope that a community would step up and make me a part of that community, he says. People also said theyre grateful for the initiatives the city has taken, such as the recent changes to Frazier Avenue. They hear our voices, and they made a drastic change in a short amount of time, Wallace says. That sends a huge messagethat our city government is making huge strides in making sure our community is safer every day. Food, Wine, & Dining By Long Island Published: November 17 2024 The Ground Round, a nostalgic casual-dining chain, is being revived with a modern twist in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts. The Ground Round, a beloved casual-dining chain with a history spanning over five decades, is set for a revival. Known for its quirky traditions like peanut shells on the floor and its mascot, Bingo the Clown, the chain was a staple in American dining. Now, first-time restaurateurs Joseph and Nachi Shea are bringing the brand back to life. The couple recently acquired the intellectual property rights to The Ground Round and are gearing up to open a new location in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts. The restaurant is currently under construction and is slated to open in January. For Joseph Shea, this venture is a personal one, inspired by fond childhood memories. I see a desire to unlock warm feelings and memories of the past that so many shared at The Ground Round, he said. A Legacy in Casual Dining The Ground Round was founded in 1969 as a sister concept to Howard Johnsons, initially aimed at repurposing marginal locations of the iconic highway chain. Over the years, it became a trailblazer in casual dining, alongside other legacy brands like TGI Fridays, Houlihans, and Bennigans. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, the chain offered American classics and unique experiences, such as cartoons on big screens and free peanuts, which patrons were encouraged to toss on the floora tradition later replaced by popcorn due to concerns over peanut allergies and fire code violations. By the late 1980s, Ground Round had grown to approximately 215 locations, but competition from emerging chains like Chilis and Applebees began to erode its market share. A series of ownership changes and attempts to revitalize the brand followed, including a menu overhaul in 2000. Despite these efforts, financial struggles culminated in a dramatic collapse in 2004, when all corporate-owned locations were abruptly closed mid-dinner service during Valentines Day weekend, leaving customers with unfinished meals and employees without jobs. Later that year, a co-op of franchisees purchased the brand, operating it under the Ground Round Independent Owners Cooperative LLC. The group launched smaller, sports-themed variations of the restaurant in 2013 and experimented with beer-centric concepts like GR Kitchen & Taps. However, by this time, the chain had dwindled to just 15 units. A New Era for The Ground Round Joseph Sheas interest in The Ground Round isnt new. Over the years, he pursued opportunities to become a franchisee but was unsuccessful. One day, I received an email from the CFO saying they were winding down operations and looking to sell all the trademarks. We worked out a deal, Shea explained. Currently, three licensed Ground Round locations operate in North Dakota and one in Ohio. While franchising may be an option in the future, Sheas focus is solely on making the Shrewsbury location a success. This allows us to get it right and create the vision we see for the brand going forward, he said. The new Ground Round will blend nostalgic elements with modern touches, emphasizing customer experience. The menu will feature fan favorites such as baby back ribs, blackened chicken Alfredo, taco salads in tortilla bowls, and fried cinnamon dippers. At the same time, Shea plans to engage with the local community to ensure the menu reflects current tastes. Consumer preferences have evolved, and we want to listen to what our customers want, he noted. Nostalgia Meets Modern Dining Shea believes that the key to The Ground Rounds revival lies in its nostalgic appeal. Consumers today are looking for nostalgia, he said, contrasting the personal touch he aims to bring with the institutional feel of some larger chains. By focusing on quality and customer experience, he hopes to recapture the essence that made The Ground Round a household name. The revival of The Ground Round is part of a broader trend of legacy restaurant brands attempting comebacks. Chains like Bennigans, Steak & Ale, and Sweet Tomatoes have all sought to re-enter the market in recent years. Meanwhile, some casual-dining stalwarts like TGI Fridays and Red Lobster have faced bankruptcy, underscoring the challenges of staying relevant in a competitive industry. For now, the Sheas are taking a measured approach, focusing solely on the Shrewsbury location. We will be blending beloved parts of the past with modern aspects, with the customer experience being at the forefront of all decisions, Shea emphasized. Popcorn, a signature feature, will make its returnbut peanuts wont. As The Ground Round prepares to open its doors once again, its revival promises to bring back cherished memories while creating new ones for future generations. A 20-year-old woman is facing charges including operating under the influence after crashing a car into a parked police cruiser on Cape Cod early Saturday morning. Barnstable police cited Hyannis resident Gabriela Prodelik for operating under the influence of liquor, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and speeding, the police department said in a press release. Barnstable police were dispatched to a home on Lincoln Road in Hyannis for a silent 911 call just after 1 a.m., police said. While they were investigating the incident, a sedan driven by Prodelik hit an empty police cruiser that was parked on the street. Prodelik and her 24-year-old passenger were injured in the crash and taken to Cape Cod Hospital by first responders, police said. Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. Prodelik it set to be summons to Barnstable District Court to be arraigned on the charges, police said. Officers are still investigating the crash. Boston homicide detectives are investigating the death of a woman who was found with fatal stab wounds at a South End park Saturday afternoon. Officers responded to Ramsey Park shortly after 12:45 p.m. for a report of a person stabbed, Boston police said in a press release Sunday. At the scene, they found a woman with multiple stab wounds. Paramedics treated the woman at the scene and rushed her to a nearby hospital, but she was pronounced deceased around 11:40 p.m., police said. Authorities have yet to release the womans name to the public. GENERAL election candidate Cllr Chris Maxwell has called for a multi-storey car park to be built in Mayo University Hospital (MUH). The Independent Ireland councillor said a new car park must be installed at the hospital, where he described the parking situation as crazy following a recent visit. At present, people attending or working at MUH can pay a fee to park in one of the hospital car parks. Paid parking is also available at ATU Mayo or on the side of the street across from the hospital. There is also a set-down facility to allow patients to access the front of the hospital. Speaking to The Mayo News, Cllr Maxwell said he has received several representations from constituents regarding the lack of parking for patients at MUH. People were telling me that are going in there for cancer treatment, they are going in for dialysis, but they are also going in for chemo, Cllr Maxwell explained. They have to park up and they have to have an appointment, and when they go in looking to get a car parking spot running around in circles they cannot get a place and then they might have to walk ten or fifteen minutes until they get a spot, and its probably down the road or it could be anywhere and its putting stress on them. They have enough on their minds without having to be running around looking for a car park. Plans are currently being progressed to construct a new two-storey emergency block at Mayo University Hospital. Over 4 million has been approved for capital works at the hospital, including 3.9 million for an electrical upgrade and over 500,000 for the reconfiguration of the Hospital Sterile Services Department. A further 70,000 has been approved for an updated Development Control Plan for the hospital campus and adjacent lands in conjunction with Mayo County Councils Local Area Plan. Additionally, 100,000 has been allocated to refurbish the An Coilin and Teach Aisling high-support community residences to accommodate nine residents in three residential units. Saolta Hospital Group said in a statement to The Mayo News: Mayo University Hospital is constantly striving to improve car park facilities at the hospital. There is one main public car park and two staff car parks in Mayo University Hospital. We have identified the need for additional car parking spaces which will be incorporated into the site development control plan. In the interim, there are a number initiatives underway that will improve car parking facilities for patients. Further measures to improve access to the public hospital site in Mayo include the promotion of staff initiatives such as the cycle to work scheme and car-pooling. Luc Pettavino, founder of Only Watch, looks back on 20 years of solidarity innovations and watchmaking successes in the service of research. As Only Watch reaches a turning point, the AMM-Only Project is now armed to continue its lasting commitment to Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Only Watch has reached a turning point: you are putting time on hold, but not research... The results of the ten Only Watch editions provide the AMM-Only Project with the necessary means to pursue and amplify its commitments over the coming years, without the short-term need to organize a new fund-raising event an organizational endeavor for which we have always retained responsibility and which, as everyone can imagine, involves enormous team mobilization. We are fortunate enough to have a friendly and loyal network of committed individuals and brands, recognized know-how in the field along with highly versatile applied creativity. This means that when the association will require fresh funding, we'll once again suggest pooling our energies in order to renew our resources. Speaking of the last 20 years, Only Watch has been referred to as a game changer. In which main ways do think that is so? I think it has played this role on several levels. Firstly, in watchmaking, with the tremendous work of the brands that have created exceptional watches, many of which have gone down in history. Then of course and above all in terms of the progress made by research into therapies for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. When we started out in the early 2000s, there was no prospect of a therapy in the short or medium term and the clinical testing of potential drugs was, it has to be said, an abstract and distant objective. We knew something about this, as our son Paul and I were directly affected by this state of affairs. So we set to work. Today, notably thanks to the international roundtables organized by the association, along with the research and development work supported with funds raised by Only Watch, a number of trials for new drugs are underway. The one being conducted by the startup we co-founded looks particularly promising and could literally be a game-changer for many patients. Receiving a diagnosis of this kind is a shock and research is by definition a field of uncertainty. However, the situation has progressed a great deal in the past 20 years and hope is more tangible. Finally, I think the last area in which Only Watch has been somewhat of a game-changer is that of charity fundraising. We hae organized an auction every two years, giving us the means to achieve our ambitions that have in turn grown in step with Only Watch. We have benefited from the vital support of partners such as auction houses, shipping companies, auction hosts, etc., while retaining responsibility for the organization of the event that became a fixture in the charity and watchmaking calendar. All this has been accomplished while adopting consistent guidelines and a humble attitude across the years, which have contributed to the success and served as inspiration for others, to our sincere delight. What mental image sticks in your mind when you look back on these 440 one-of-kind models created by dozens of brands? I visualize a tightly framed camera shot showing around 20 exceptional, unique watches. Zooming out, the shot widens to reveal 100, 200, 300, 400 watches and more, which themselves merge into one. The extraordinary strength of Only Watch has resided in its unity, to a degree unprecedented in this industry. Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Ref. 6300A-010 Only Watch You've forged some extremely strong ties with leading figures in the watchmaking industry. What is left of all that? The rare opportunity to communicate in uncalculated sincerity from one person to the next, with hundreds of people prepared to listen and ready to support a movement on behalf of the common good. We will continue to work with them and the watchmaking ecosystem, keeping them informed and involving them even more in the advances made possible by the AMM-Only Project funds, notably through their representation on our strategic committee. Is there anything you might have done differently? It all happened in a manner reflecting the perfect imperfection of human reality, driving phenomenal global success and empathy. For two decades, we have experienced repeated, improbable and magnificent Everests and offered unique opportunities to significantly advance research towards therapies. We will be able to continue doing so for many years to come, thanks to good resource management. What are the Association's priorities from now on? Deploying and further fine-tuning our research support programs so as to help researchers on their path towards increasingly complex and innovative therapies, while also offering new generations in this field the chance to emerge and take their place. To achieve this, we must continue to consolidate our governance and grow the team skillfully, at just the right pace, in order to be efficient, accurate and responsive on all issues. What challenges do you see ahead for the Director of the AMM-Only Project? Maintaining the best of our pioneering and agile spirit while effectively helping the association to turn the corner towards maturity. How do you see the watch industry in the upcoming quarter-century? It's more a brief look at the world today and tomorrow that I'd like to share with you. We live in a fluctuating century, meaning one that is variable as well as less and less predictable, often tempted by an inward-looking attitude and impacted by fear of other people and of the future. This trend is accelerating. To come out on top, we'll need, in my opinion, to demonstrate a collaborative and kindly spirit, adaptability, creativity or ingenuity, sharing of resources, as well as joy in life and in the present moment. Applied to the watch industry, this could result in a hybrid mode of operation incorporating the finest qualities of independent brands and those of groups. In this sense, Only Watch has been leading the way for 20 years, creating, promoting and proposing bridges between all watchmaking universes and demonstrating in this context that such an approach can actually work. HOMEOWNERS affected by pyrite in Westports Pairc na Coille have issued an impassioned plea for help with the cost of rebuilding their houses. Local elected representatives and five Mayo general election candidates attended a public meeting last Friday outside the home of Linda Claxton, the first house in the estate to be demolished and rebuilt. At least 32 houses in the estate have been confirmed to be infected with pyrite. However, the entire 53-house estate is suspected to be riddled with the mineral, which causes defects in building blocks and results in serious structural problems. This means they will likely require total demolition. Seven houses in the estate have been demolished so far. Eligible homeowners have received compensation for rebuilding their houses under the Defective Concrete Block Redress scheme. However, many have been left with a shortfall of tens of thousands of euros, as the rebuild costs exceed the amount of compensation awarded. This includes Ms Claxton, who has been left with a shortfall of over 90,000 since rebuilding her house which has no landscaping or driveway. The houses in Pairc na Coille were built by Mayo County Council in partnership with an approved housing body as part of an affordable purchase scheme in the early 2000s. Several homeowners in the estate whose homes have been condemned still have outstanding mortgages to Mayo County Council. There is nothing affordable about this. We the residents are calling on you to please help us. Its not fair whats being done to us, through no fault of our own, Ms Claxton said. Disastrous In the past year, the Pairc na Coille Homeowners Association was formed to campaign for affected homeowners. Attempts are also being made to set up a MyMind group to help homeowners struggling with their mental health. A number of residents who spoke Fridays meeting outlined a variety of concerns with the redress scheme. Cllr Brendan Mulroy (Fianna Fail) noted the toll that pyrite had taken on residents mental health, saying: How we are not, in this estate, at a funeral is beyond me. Mayo Sinn Fein TD, Rose Conway Walsh, described it as a particularly disastrous situation and echoed her partys calls for 100 percent redress for affected homeowners and a full public inquiry into the mica and pyrite scandal. At present, eligible homeowners can avail of up to 420,000 under the pyrite redress scheme. The level of compensation is calculated based on the square footage of liveable space in the house, rather than the total rebuild cost. My house was demolished on the 3rd of November last year, Ms Claxton explained. My foundations are 2.2 metres from the ground. I had to build my house up 2.2 metres before I could start. That is not 100 percent. That has cost me 22,500. That is not included in any grant. Its going to be the same for all of the houses up there. Independent councillor John OMalley echoed Deputy Conway-Walshs criticisms of the Governments handling of the pyrite and mica scandal, which has afflicted thousands of homes, mainly in Mayo and Donegal. The house should be built and the ground put back, the landscaping and everything put back the way it was before anything happened, said Cllr OMalley. Anything less is not doing anything for the people. So actually the Government, and the County Council, are a disgrace, they have done nothing for ye at all. Proposed changes Proposed changes to the scheme which require new legislation to be enacted will see the maximum grant raised to 462,000 and increases to the rates payable per square foot. The Minister for Housing Darragh OBrien has also proposed a retrospective one-off payment for those left with a shortfall after accessing the old redress scheme. I think thats positive and progressive in terms of people ensuring that the costs of constructive are reflective of whats currently in the scheme and that its fit for purpose, Minister of State for Housing, Alan Dillon TD, told the meeting. Minister Dillon acknowledged that Pairc na Coille has presented many anomalies that are currently not within the terms of the scheme. I understand the householders here and the fear and the cost of not being able to fit the cost of the building, I absolutely understand that. Thats why Im here today. Its not just an issue in Westport. Its an issue in Castlebar and north Mayo, he said. Im working with my Oireachtas colleagues and those who are fortunate to be in government next time. That will bring constructive solutions to the problem, he continued. Its easy to shout from the hilltop and say that theres a problem and that the Government arent doing anything about it. This scheme, while its not perfect, it is a grant of last resort for every single one of you. Our heart goes out to each and every one of you that is actually impacted on it. A circus Minister Dillon also refuted a claim that the pyrite and mica scandal occurred because of corruption between the Government and the construction industry. Seamus Maye, who worked in the concrete and cement industry for many years, called the Dail a circus and accused the Government of making eejits and idiots out of the whole lot of us. The cost of the Defective Concrete Block Scheme has been estimated at over 2 billion. Part of this is being funded through a controversial 5 percent levy on new concrete blocks, which has been blamed for increasing the cost of construction generally. All the taxpayers in the country are being handed a bill thats not theirs, said Mr Maye. The bill belongs to the people that supply the concrete blocks. And Alan Dillon you have nothing to say? Addressing Mr Mayes remarks, Minister Dillon said: Weve heard the story in relation to poor regulation, and we get that, but I absolutely refute [that there was] any type of corruption with any political party. And I would say to you, if you want to implement change, and you think Dail Eireann is a circus, put your name on a ballot paper and put yourself up for election. The meeting was also addressed by general election candidates Stephen Kerr (Independent), Lisa Chambers (Fianna Fail) and Keira Keogh (Fine Gael), who pledged to support the homeowners in Pairc na Coille. Ciaran Mullooly, Independent Ireland MEP, pledged that he would lobby the new EU Commissioner for Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law, Michael McGrath, on the matter. Earlier this year, the European Parliament released a report criticising Irelands defective concrete block redress scheme and recommended that full 100 percent redress be awarded to affected homeowners. Mr McGrath, who stepped down as Finance Minister in June, was recently confirmed as the EU Commissioner for Justice following a three-hour-long hearing during which he was questioned on the pyrite and mica scandal. [Mr McGrath] was asked What about the product? When is Europe and the Irish government going to go after the people who are responsible for the faulty product in the first place?, MEP Mullooly said. He said if it was referred to him in Europe he will go after the product. It is our jobs as MEPs to follow him up on that. Thats where the European Parliament comes into it. If there was a faulty product, [we have to ask] why was it allowed to be used, but also has there been a punishment or a fine or a redress against the companies involved in that? Pairc na Coille was featured in a recently-aired episode of TG4s Iniuchadh. AN outspoken critic of the state of Irish local government has branded Mayo County Councils budgetary process as an insult to councillors and the public. Cllr Peter Flynn was among those who slammed the lack of funding for the Westport-Belmullet Municipal District after its elected members again rejected their proposed budget. A total of 490,000 was allocated for Westport-Belmullet Municipal District in Mayo County Councils 201 million draft budgetary plan. Claremorris-Swinford - which covers one-third of Mayo - received the most of any municipal district with 700,000. The Castlebar Municipal District received 490,000, while Ballina received 470,000, bringing the total allocated to Mayos four municipal district councils to 2.1 million. This funding is allocated to the councillors in each municipal district, who may use it to fund their own chosen groups or projects. Cllr Flynn hit out at the budgetary process at an online meeting where the only item on the agenda was a vote on the budget. If ever you want to see how broken local government is, this budgetary process is really the proof in the pudding, he said. It really is farcical. Its an insult to the members, to the executive, but more importantly, its an insult to the public at large. The Fine Gael councillor said the Westport-Belmullet Municipal District was operating on a shoestring without enough money to repair houses, empty bins, clean the streets and carry out other maintenance works. Independent councillor John OMalley said the lack of discretionary money available to the municipal district was embarrassing. There is no money, it seems, to do anything around the town. Anything that is done, is not done properly that it will last. If something needs to be repaired, its half-repaired, said Cllr OMalley, citing a wall in front of Centra on The Fairgreen which collapsed after being hit by a vehicle. Seamus OMongain, Head of Westport-Belmullet Municipal District, said the municipal district budget was offered following a process which took into account all of the factors across the entire county. Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. As part of RTE's coverage of the General Election 2024 campaign, the first of two definitive leaders' debates will air this Monday night, featruing ten party leaders. Upfront with Katie Hannon will host the largest ever leaders debate with ten political party leaders taking part in the live debate in RTE, aired live on RTE One and the RTE Player. Journalist Katie Hannon will be asking the important questions as ten leading politicians vying for votes in General Election 2024 set out their stall before Ireland goes to the polls. Speaking ahead of the live broadcast, presenter Katie Hannon said: I'm looking forward to moderating the biggest ever television leaders debate on Monday night. This is the only opportunity there will be during this election campaign to see all ten party leaders debate with each other and make their pitch for our votes. Well be asking the questions that people want answered on their polices and promises and ensuring that voters know where every party stands on the key issues before they head to the polls on 29th November. EXPLAINER: When is it officially too cold to work as Ireland prepares for snow blast? The ten political party leaders joining Katie on stage for the major two-hour live debate will be: Ivana Bacik, Leader of the Labour Party Richard Boyd Barrett, Leader of People Before Profit Joan Collins, Leader of Right to Change Michael Collins, Leader of Independent Ireland Simon Harris, Leader of Fine Gael Micheal Martin, Leader of Fianna Fail Mary Lou McDonald, Leader of Sinn Fein Cian OCallaghan, Deputy Leader of Social Democrats Roderic OGorman, Leader of the Green Party Peadar Toibin, Leader of Aontu Watch RTE Upfront with Katie Hannon Party Leaders debate at 9.35pm on Monday, November 18. The programme will be available to watch live on RTE One, RTE News channel and worldwide on the RTE Player. Chewing xylitol gum during pregnancy could lower the risk of preterm and low-birthweight babies. Discover how this sweet fix can save lives. Highlights: Chewing xylitol-containing gum during pregnancy was linked to a 24% reduction in preterm births in a study conducted in Malawi Pregnant women who chewed xylitol gum had a 30% lower rate of delivering low-birthweight babies compared to those who didn't Xylitol is known to reduce bacteria and inflammation in the mouth, potentially impacting pregnancy outcomes by reducing gum disease Trusted Source Chewing xylitol gum linked to decrease in preterm birth Go to source Trusted Source Did You Know? A stick of xylitol gum a day could help pregnant women reduce the risk of preterm births by 24%! This natural sweetener fights gum disease, which is linked to early labor. #maternalhealth #pregnancycare #medindia A stick of xylitol gum a day could help pregnant women reduce the risk of preterm births by 24%! This natural sweetener fights gum disease, which is linked to early labor. #maternalhealth #pregnancycare #medindia Advertisement Xylitol Conatining Chewing Gum Linked to Low-Birthweight Babies Advertisement Is Gum Disease Linked with Preterm Birth or Low-Birthweight Delivery? Advertisement What is Xylitol? Chewing Gum Can Enhance Dental Health Need to Study that Babies Exposed to Xylitol During Pregnancy Do Not Suffer Long-Term Harm Chewing xylitol gum linked to decrease in preterm birth - (https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-11-xylitol-gum-linked-decrease-preterm.html) The Marine Corps has announced new standards on training and operations for its Amphibious Combat Vehicle, or ACV, as it continues to deploy the 32-metric-ton machine in key training after early launch troubles. Two ACVs rolled over in the surf during separate amphibious exercises in 2022, causing the Marine Corps to issue a monthslong pause on waterborne operations for the vehicle. No Marines were injured in those mishaps, the service said, but the events pushed the Corps to review safety, training and operations procedures for the ACV moving forward. Now, as the ACV hits the water again -- including a debut employment in the Pacific this spring -- the Marine Corps has codified the Assault Amphibian Training and Operating Procedures Standardization, or AATOPS, manual, for the vehicle's operators to digest and execute. The new guidelines were finalized in September. Read Next: Kings of Campus: How Some Army Instructors Use Their Clout to Prey on College Cadets Some of the standards included in the AATOPS outlined the use of safety boats, which accompany the ACV during waterborne operations; emergency procedures; and maximum surf levels that the vehicle can safely operate in, said Lt. Col. Matthew Ludlow, the officer in charge of the Transition Training Unit, an entity that oversees the shift from the Corps' decades-old Amphibious Assault Vehicle to the newer ACV. "The AATOPS program represents [a] service-level approach to improving combat readiness and achieving a substantial reduction in [incidents]," Ludlow told Military.com in a phone interview Friday. "We've taken the lessons learned and we've incorporated that into the manual, and we provided a method by which we can continually refine our process." Inspired by aviation procedures and standards, ACV operators will be required to take yearly tests on the vehicle's employment, basic operations, egress procedures and safety measures. Ludlow said that the AATOPS is also meant to support unit commanders in planning training for Marines who use the ACV. "If you don't take it, then you don't operate," Ludlow said of the test, adding that the manual describes individual steps that each operator in the ACV is supposed to follow during an emergency procedure. The expectation is that those steps are memorized and tested "so if you miss a single step, you have to go back and take the test again," he said. As the Corps marches on with its Pacific-oriented Force Design plan, the ACV has emerged as critical equipment to transport Marines from ship to shore during amphibious operations. With a range of 12 nautical miles, the ACV can carry 16 Marines -- including its three-person crew -- trucking along the surf to a beachhead, for example. The 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit out of Camp Pendleton, California, has been at the center of the ACV's latest employments, including the vehicle's first operational launch in the Pacific during a May exercise in Oyster Bay, Philippines. The following month, the MEU hit another milestone when it conducted its first overseas ship-to-shore operation as it launched from the USS Harpers Ferry, an amphibious ship, the service said in an announcement. As late as this month, hundreds of Marines and sailors on the West Coast also participated in what the service called an "inaugural iteration" of a quarterly exercise in which ACVs successfully transported infantry Marines from a ship during day and night operations. Still, the ACV still retains some limitations, a Marine Corps spokesperson told Military.com on Friday, in that it is restricted from transiting the "surf zone," where waves break before the shore. The ACV can be used in open water, "protected water" and land-based operations, the spokesperson said. In September 2021, the service sidelined the ACV due to problems with its towing mechanism. The following year, USNI reported a video that showed one of the 2022 ACV mishaps, where one vehicle became disabled and another rolled over in high surf. In October 2022, another ACV rolled over in the surf, resulting in the firing of the Assault Amphibian School's commander. No surf incidents caused injuries or fatalities, the service said, though in December an ACV rolled over during a ground movement at Camp Pendleton, killing one Marine and injuring more than a dozen others. Now, the service appears to be taking a measured approach to the vehicle's employment and operator training after those early issues sidelined the ACV for a time and its predecessor -- the Amphibious Assault Vehicle -- experienced a fatal mishap in 2020 in which nine service members were killed as a result of training gaps, a poorly maintained vehicle and insufficient safety protocols, a Navy investigation found. Ludlow said that the Transition Training Unit is still "combing through" new feedback from the 15th MEU's review of the operations, but "we feel pretty good that the lessons they were learning in stride, we have incorporated so that there's nothing huge out there that's going to negatively impact safety one way or the other that isn't already incorporated." He said that the development of the AATOPS has been a couple years in the making and included feedback from the Marine Corps' Training and Education Command, engineers and other subject-matter experts who have been involved with the ACV since it was fielded. He also noted that, in conjunction with the new manual, the service has bolstered "schoolhouse" and operational units with a safety and standardization department led by a field-grade officer to provide oversight. The new manual was requested by Military.com, but the publication was denied. It has a Controlled Unclassified Information status to protect "sensitive details on vehicle capabilities and limitations, warranting restricted access to safeguard operational security," a Marine Corps spokesperson said. "Our community standards of practice now aren't just standards of practice in the community, but they're codified as service policy," Ludlow said. Related: Marines' New Amphibious Combat Vehicle Makes Operational Debut in Annual Philippines Exercise LIMA, Peru (AP) Chinas leader Xi Jinping met for the last time with U.S. President Joe Biden on Saturday but was already looking ahead to President-elect Donald Trump and his America first policies, saying Beijing is ready to work with a new U.S. administration." During their talks on the sidelines of the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Peru, Xi cautioned that a stable China-U.S. relationship was critical not only to the two nations but to the future and destiny of humanity. Make the wise choice, he cautioned. Keep exploring the right way for two major countries to get along well with each other. Without mentioning Trumps name, Xi appeared to signal his concern that the incoming presidents protectionist rhetoric on the campaign trail could send the U.S.-China relationship into another valley. China is ready to work with a new U.S. administration to maintain communication, expand cooperation and manage differences so as to strive for a steady transition of the China-U.S. relationship for the benefit of the two peoples, Xi said through an interpreter. Xi, who is firmly entrenched atop Chinas political hierarchy, spoke forcefully in his brief remarks before reporters. Biden, who is winding down more than 50 years of public service, talked in broader brushstrokes about where the relationship between the two countries has gone. He reflected not just on the past four years but on the decades the two have known each other. We havent always agreed, but our conversations have always been candid and always been frank. Weve never kidded one another, Biden said. These conversations prevent miscalculations, and they ensure the competition between our two countries will not veer into conflict. Biden urged Xi to dissuade North Korea from further deepening its support for Russias war on Ukraine. The leaders, with top aides surrounding them, gathered around a long rectangle of tables in an expansive conference room at a Lima hotel. They had much to discuss, including Chinas indirect support for Russia, human rights issues, technology and Taiwan, the self-ruled democracy that Beijing claims as its own. On artificial intelligence, the two agreed on the need to maintain human control over the decision to use nuclear weapons and more broadly improve safety and international cooperation of the rapidly expanding technology. Theres much uncertainty about what lies ahead in the U.S.-China relationship under Trump, who campaigned promising to levy 60% tariffs on Chinese imports. Already, many American companies, including Nike and eyewear retailer Warby Parker, have been diversifying their sourcing away from China. Shoe brand Steve Madden says it plans to cut imports from China by as much as 45% next year. In a congratulatory message to Trump after his victory over Vice President Kamala Harris, Xi called for the U.S. and China to manage their differences and get along in a new era. In front of cameras Saturday, Xi spoke to Biden but it was unmistakable that his message was directed at Trump. In a major flourishing sci-tech revolution, neither decoupling nor supply chain disruption is a solution, Xi said. Only mutual, beneficial cooperation can lead to common development. Small yard, high fence is not what a major country should pursue. Biden administration officials have said they would advise the Trump team that managing the intense competition with Beijing will likely be the most significant foreign policy challenge they will face. On Saturday, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said Biden had reinforced to Xi that these next two months are a time of transition" and that the president would like to pass off the U.S.-China relationship in stable terms to the new administration. Biden has viewed his relationship with Xi as among the most consequential on the international stage and put much effort into cultivating it. The two first got to know each other on travels across the U.S. and China when both were vice presidents, interactions that both have said left a lasting impression. They last met a year ago on the APEC sidelines in Northern California. For over a decade, you and I have spent many hours together, both here and in China and in between," Biden said. Weve spent a long time dealing with these issues. But the last four years have presented a steady stream of difficult moments. The FBI this week offered new details of a federal investigation into Chinese government efforts to hack into U.S. telecommunications networks. The initial findings have revealed a broad and significant cyberespionage campaign aimed at stealing information from Americans who work in government and politics. Sullivan said Biden raised the matter with Xi during their talks and that the U.S. will have more to say about the investigation in the weeks ahead. U.S. intelligence officials also have assessed China has surged sales to Russia of machine tools, microelectronics and other technology that Moscow is using to produce missiles, tanks, aircraft and other weaponry for use in its war against Ukraine. And tensions flared last year after Biden ordered the shooting down of a Chinese spy balloon that traversed the United States. Biden wants Xi to step up Chinese engagement to prevent an already dangerous moment with North Korea from further escalating. Biden, along with South Korean President Yoon Seok Yul and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, on Friday condemned North Korean leader Kim Jong Uns decision to send thousands of troops to help Moscow repel Ukrainian forces who have seized territory in Russias Kursk border region. White House officials have expressed frustration with Beijing, which accounts for the vast majority of North Koreas trade, for not doing more to rein in Pyongyang. The North Koreans also have provided Russia with artillery and other munitions, according to U.S. and South Korean intelligence officials. And the U.S., Japan and South Korea have expressed alarm over Pyongyangs stepped-up cadence of ballistic missile tests. Kim ordered testing exercises in the lead-up to this months U.S. election and is claiming progress on efforts to build capability to strike the U.S. mainland. Xi and Biden started their day at the leaders retreat at the APEC summit, taking part in a photo where they all wore scarves made from vicuna wool, a symbolic animal for Peru. Its common practice that leaders at these gatherings are given a gift usually traditional clothing of the host country that they don for the photo. ___ Long reported from Washington. Associated Press writer Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to this report. A group of 32 students from the United States have been selected to attend the University of Oxford as part of the prestigious Rhodes scholar program in the coming year among an international class representing more than 70 nations, scholarship officials announced. Nearly 3,000 U.S. students began the application process for the scholarship covering all expenses at the storied university in Oxford, England, to pursue graduate degrees beginning in October 2025, the Office of the American Secretary of the Rhodes Trust in McLean, Virginia, said in a statement early Sunday. The 32 recipients include students from 19 states and the District of Columbia attending 20 U.S. colleges and universities. During the application process, 865 students were endorsed by 243 colleges and universities. Committees in 16 U.S. districts then selected 238 finalists for interviews. Four of the recipients are from the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York, the most selected from the service academy in one year since 1959. Others include the first Rhodes scholars chosen from Eastern Mennonite University in Virginia and California's Pepperdine University. Returning students to the program for the first time in decades, Coe College in Iowa had its first scholarship winner in more than 53 years and North Carolina's Davidson College placed a scholar after 25 years without the recognition. The trust touted the wide-ranging interests of the scholarship winners: a DJ who uses AI in music and medicine, a religious studies major proficient in six languages, an amateur boxer and the youngest elected official in Missouri. Ramona L. Doyle, American secretary of the Rhodes Trust, said in the statement that in addition to academic excellence, a Rhodes Scholar should also have great ambition for social impact, and an uncommon ability to work with others to achieve ones goals." They should be committed to make a strong difference for good in the world, be concerned for the welfare of others, and be acutely conscious of inequities, Doyle said. The sponsorships were created in 1902 by the will of Cecil Rhodes, a founder of the diamond mining and manufacturing company De Beers. The inaugural class entered Oxford in 1903 and the first U.S. Rhodes scholars arrived the next year. Scholars pursue advanced degrees in subjects ranging from social sciences and humanities to biological and physical sciences, according to the trust. The Rhodes scholarship is the oldest and best-known award for international study, and arguably the most famous academic award available to American college graduates," Doyle said. Sunday's announcement brings the total number of Americans selected for Rhodes scholarships to 3,674 representing 329 colleges and universities, the trust said, noting 675 U.S. women have won the scholarship despite only having been eligible to apply since 1976. The U.S. scholars chosen for the 2024 class were the first to take part in a screening process in person following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. During the previous three years, the selection process was conducted online. The scholarships are typically for two to three years but may extend to four. The award covers all fees, a living expense stipend and transportation between England and the recipients location. The scholarship is valued at about $75,000 annually, reaching to about $250,000 for scholars who remain in their departments for four years. According to the laws of fairy tales, if there is a princess in the story, then she must have a castle. The Disney studio does not deviate from this rule. ADVERTISIMENT But did you know that in almost every cartoon, the locations where the heroines lived were inspired by real places in different parts of the world? Woman and Home magazine told us more about them. "Sleeping Beauty - Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany Few places on Earth are as magical and majestic as Neuschwanstein Castle in southwestern Bavaria. Located in the Alps, it was the residence of King Ludwig II, and was built by his order as a tribute to the composer Richard Wagner. Aladdin - Taj Mahal, India ADVERTISIMENT The luxurious palace of the Sultan from the movie Aladdin, where Princess Jasmine lives, was inspired by the most famous monument in India - the Taj Mahal mausoleum. It is easy to understand why Disney directors turned to the monument for inspiration. Its snow-white marble, elegant domes, minaret towers, pools and fountain are stunning. The Little Mermaid - Schion Castle, Switzerland Although Ariel and her friends seem to live somewhere in a warm sea, the main source of inspiration for the cartoon's creators was the Chateau de Chillon on Lake Geneva in Switzerland. It was the castle that was used to draw the home of the Little Mermaid's beloved Prince Eric. By the way, this is not the first work of art inspired by this place. Lord Byron wrote about it in his poem "The Prisoner of Chillon" in 1816. ADVERTISIMENT Mulan - Forbidden City, China The animated film Mulan has become a true ode to female strength and courage. Disney's classic work also paid a lot of attention to conveying a sense of authenticity. The palace and gates featured in the movie were modeled after the Forbidden City in Beijing, a historical site where Chinese emperors lived between 1420 and 1912. The site is now protected by UNESCO and is used as a museum of ancient art and artifacts. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs - Alcazar in Segovia, Spain The majestic palace from Snow White where the Evil Queen lives was modeled after the Alcazar in Segovia, a medieval castle in central Spain. For centuries, it was used as a military fort, the home of the Spanish royal family, and a prison. And nowadays it has turned into a museum. Subscribe to OBOZ.UA channels in Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events. KYIV, Ukraine (AP) Russia on Sunday launched a massive drone and missile attack on Ukraine, described by officials as the largest in recent months, targeting energy infrastructure and killing civilians. The attack came as fears are mounting about Moscows intentions to devastate Ukraine's power generation capacity ahead of the winter. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Russia had launched a total of 120 missiles and 90 drones in a large-scale attack across Ukraine. Various types of drones were deployed, he said, including Iranian-made Shaheds, as well as cruise, ballistic and aircraft-launched ballistic missiles. Ukrainian defenses shot down 144 out of a total of 210 air targets, Ukraine's air force reported later on Sunday. The enemys target was our energy infrastructure throughout Ukraine. Unfortunately, there is damage to objects from hits and falling debris. In Mykolaiv, as a result of a drone attack, two people were killed and six others were injured, including two children," Zelenskyy said. Two more people were killed in the Odesa region, where the attack damaged energy infrastructure and disrupted power and water supplies, said local Gov. Oleh Kiper. Both victims were employees of Ukraine's state-owned power grid operator, Ukrenergo, the company said hours later. The combined drone and missile attack was the most powerful in three months, according to the head of Kyivs City Military Administration, Serhii Popko. One person was injured after the roof of a five-story residential building caught fire in Kyivs historic center, according to Popko. A thermal power plant operated by private energy company DTEK was seriously damaged, the company said. Russian strikes have hammered Ukraines power infrastructure since Moscows all-out invasion of its neighbor in February 2022, prompting repeated emergency power shutdowns and nationwide rolling blackouts. Ukrainian officials have routinely urged Western allies to bolster the countrys air defenses to counter assaults and allow for repairs. Explosions were heard across Ukraine on Sunday, including in the capital, Kyiv, the key southern port of Odesa, as well as the countrys west and central regions, according to local reports. The operational command of Polands armed forces wrote on X that Polish and allied aircraft, including fighter jets, have been mobilized in Polish airspace because of the massive Russian attack on neighboring Ukraine. The steps were aimed to provide safety in Poland's border areas, it said. Russias Defense Ministry on Sunday acknowledged carrying out a mass missile and drone attack on critical energy infrastructure in Ukraine, but claimed all targeted facilities were tied to Kyivs military industry. Although Ukraines nuclear plants were not directly impacted, several electrical substations on which they depend suffered further damage, the U.N.s nuclear energy watchdog said in a statement Sunday. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, only two of Ukraines nine operational reactors continue to generate power at full capacity. Ukrainian drones strike Russia A local journalist died Sunday as Ukrainian drones struck Russia's embattled Kursk region, its Gov. Aleksei Smirnov reported. Moscows forces have for months strained to dislodge Ukrainian troops from the southern province after a bold incursion in August that constituted the largest attack on Russia since World War II and saw battle-hardened Ukrainian units swiftly take hundreds of square miles (kilometers) of territory. In Russias Belgorod province, near Ukraine, a man died on the spot after a Ukrainian drone dropped explosives on his car, local Gov. Vyacheslav Gladkov reported. Another Ukrainian drone on Sunday targeted a drone factory in Izhevsk, deep inside Russia, according to anti-Kremlin Russian news channels on the Telegram messaging app. The regional leader, Aleksandr Brechalov, reported that a drone exploded near a factory in the city, blowing out windows but causing no serious damage. A man was briefly hospitalized with a head injury, Brechalov said. ___ Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine The Cardinals and utility man Jose Barrero are in agreement on a minor league deal, according to a report from Francys Romero. Per Romero, the deal also includes an invite to big league Spring Training. Barrero, 27 in April, came up in the Reds organization and received some top-100 prospect buzz following his debut in the shortened 2020 season despite hitting just .194/.206/.194 in 24 games that year. He never quite lived up to that promise as he struggled to establish himself offensively at the big league level, slashing just .184/.248/.267 in the majors from 2021 to 2023 with Cincinnati. Despite that lackluster offensive production in the majors, he has shown some signs of life at the Triple-A level throughout his career. In particular, Barrero hit an impressive .258/.333/.540 with 19 homers, 17 doubles, and 20 stolen bases in just 334 trips to the plate at Triple-A Louisville during the 2023 campaign. That was Barreros final season with the Reds, as he was designated for assignment in March of 2024 when Cincinnati decided he wouldnt make the clubs active roster despite having no minor league options remaining. That led him to be plucked off waivers by the Rangers, although he was once again designated for assignment in the run-up to Opening Day in order to make room for Jared Walsh on the clubs roster. This time, however, he went unclaimed on waivers and was outrighted to Triple-A. Unfortunately for Barrero, he wouldnt crack the majors with the Rangers as he hit just .188/.277/.346 in 49 games with the clubs Round Rock affiliate in an injury plagued season that saw his season debut delayed until May and his final game played on July 4. Now that Barrero is presumably healthy, however, he elected free agency earlier this month and hit the open market for the first time in his career. That opened the door for him to sign on with the Cardinals, who enter the winter facing plenty of uncertainty as trade rumors swirl around veteran players such as Nolan Arenado. Given the possibility of trades from the clubs positional corps this winter, adding a versatile defender like Barrero could make sense as a potential bench option should he perform in the spring, or even as a non-roster depth piece to protect against injury throughout the year should he remain in the minors. Barreros path to playing time in St. Louis is somewhat complicated, however. The 26-year-old has primarily played shortstop and center field to this point in his career, but the Cards have rookie Masyn Winn locking down shortstop while defensively-gifted youngsters Michael Siani and Victor Scott II figure to vie for regular playing time in center next year. Even so, Barrero could find use as a versatile utility option, as hes played every position besides first base and catcher throughout his career. Its even possible that Barrero, should he make his way onto the St. Louis roster next year, finds some playing time as a platoon partner for either Siani or Scott in center field, as both are left-handed hitters with unimpressive offensive numbers against southpaws. The Mets signed Donovan Walton to a minor league contract, according to the infielders MLB.com profile page. Walton elected to become a free agent at the start of November when the Giants outrighted him off their 40-man roster since Walton had previously been outrighted in his career, he has the right to opt for free agency rather than accept another outright assignment. The 30-year-old appeared in nine games after San Francisco selected Waltons contract to the active roster in mid-September, which marked Waltons first big league playing time since 2022. Walton broke into the majors with the Mariners in 2019 and played in 37 games over parts of four seasons before Seattle traded him to the Giants in May 2022. That season was cut short by a shoulder surgery that also kept him on the shelf for a good chunk of the 2023 campaign, as Walton spent the entirety of that season in the Giants minor league system. If the 2023 season was just about getting back to good health for Walton, he looked sharper this season in hitting .306/.380/.441 over 387 plate appearances with Triple-A Sacramento. This more or less matches his .287/.370/.454 slash line across 975 career PA at the Triple-A level, but Walton hasnt been able to carry that production into the Show, as he has hit only .174/.227/.305 in 205 PA with the Mariners and Giants. Walton has mostly split his time between the two middle infield positions, though he has some experience as a third baseman and left fielder. Though his lack of offense limits his ceiling, Walton is a left-handed hitter who can play multiple positions, making him an interesting option for teams looking to fill out a roster. The Mets can give Walton a look during Spring Training and see what he can bring to the table as a depth piece for either the big league squad or at Triple-A. Nov. 18: Martinez has now formally accepted the QO, reports Gordon Wittenmyer of the Cincinnati Enquirer. He adds an update to a prior report, adding that talks on a multi-year deal are not expected to continue. Nov. 17: Veteran right-hander Nick Martinez is planning to accept the qualifying offer from the Reds, according to a report from Francys Romero. Martinez will remain with Cincinnati for the 2025 season on a one-year, $21.05MM deal. Martinez, 34, was a somewhat surprising recipient of the QO after a strong inaugural season with the Reds. The right-hander joined the club on a two-year, $26MM guarantee last winter after both he and the Padres opted out of their simultaneous options for the 2024 campaign, making him a free agent. The deal with Cincinnati proved to be something of a coup for the Reds, as Martinez turned in an excellent 3.10 ERA and 3.21 FIP over 142 1/3 innings of work in a season that saw him split his time between the starting rotation and the bullpen. While the righty posted utterly dominant numbers in relief, sporting a 1.86 ERA in 53 1/3 frames out of the bullpen, his 3.84 ERA across 16 starts saw him flash the ability to be a quality rotation piece. A closer look at Martinezs work this season reveals that he struggled badly out of the rotation early in the year, with a 5.46 ERA through the end of April. He ended the year on a dominant note after returning to the rotation in early August, however, with a 2.42 ERA in 63 1/3 innings across 11 starts down the stretch. That excellent late-season performance could inspire more confidence in Martinezs abilities as a rotation piece looking ahead to 2025, although its worth noting that his strikeout rate (22.5% vs 19.1%) and groundball rate (42.8% vs 33.7%) were both better out of the bullpen than the rotation this year. Of course, part of Martinezs value since returning to MLB following a four-year sojourn to Japan (where he posted a 3.02 ERA in 378 1/3 NPB innings) is his ability to shift from the rotation to the bullpen based on the needs of his team. The right-hander has worked as a swingman in each of the last three seasons, logging 184 innings across 35 starts in the rotation and and 175 innings over 117 relief outings. On the heels of a season that saw Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, and Andrew Abbott all miss time due to injury, its easy to imagine the Reds placing additional value on Martinezs flexibility as they attempt to map out a plan for their young rotation arms. Thats especially valuable given the presence of top prospect Rhett Lowder, who looked dominant in a late-season call-up but may not be ready to jump straight into a wire-to-wire big league season in 2025. That combination of production and versatility convinced the Reds to extend Martinez the QO, even though $21.05MM constitutes a raise of more than $7MM over his 2024 salary. The sides reportedly discussed a multi-year extension in the days leading up to the QO deadline earlier this month, but did not ultimately come together on a deal. Given Martinezs age, its likely that his earning power on the open market would be tamped down in any multi-year pact. That reality surely made accepting the QO an attractive option for Martinez, and thats exactly what MLBTR predicted he would do in our annual Top 50 MLB Free Agents list. While adding Martinez to the clubs pitching staff for 2025 is sure to improve the team, that hefty raise might cause some complications for the clubs budget. RosterResource estimates the clubs current payroll for 2025 to be just under $81MM. While the Reds are committed to a payroll at or above their 2024 level, the club spent just $100MM on payroll last year and the addition of Martinezs $21.05MM salary would push the Reds to $102MM, just over that mark. Potential non-tender candidates like Santiago Espinal and Jake Fraley could help the club save a few million dollars here and there, but it seems as though Cincinnati will need to exceed their 2024 payroll by a notable amount in order to make further additions this winter. As for the free agent market overall, this winters market remains deep in interesting mid-to-back of the rotation options even with Martinez off the board. Yusei Kikuchi, Nathan Eovaldi, and Nick Pivetta are among the mid-rotation arms expected to pursue multi-year deals in free agency this winter, while bounce-back candidates like Walker Buehler and Max Scherzer could provide significant upside as they look to re-establish themselves on one-year, high-AAV deals similar to Martinezs. The Rays had interest in a reunion with veteran catcher Travis dArnaud prior to his deal with the Angels, according to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times. dArnaud, 36 in February, spent the past half decade in Atlanta but was a member of the Rays during the 2019 season, when he played 92 games for the club as part of a catching tandem with Mike Zunino and was a key part of the clubs first trip to the postseason since 2013. He split time between catching and playing first base with Tampa, and hit a solid .263/.323/.459 with 16 homers in just 365 trips to the plate. That production was good for a wRC+ of 109, and his excellent work with the Rays served as a springboard for him as he entered free agency that winter. Of course, dArnaud ultimately landed with the Braves prior to the 2020 season and has spent the past five seasons as a fixture of the lineup in Atlanta, catching more games for them than any other player in each season except 2023, when Sean Murphy took over primary catching duties. The veteran has served as a roughly league average hitter overall during his time with the Braves, slashing .251/.312/.443 with a 106 wRC+. Thats just about in line with his production in 2024 as well, as he slugged 15 homers in 99 games en route to a 103 wRC+ with Atlanta this year. Valuable as dArnaud has been for the Braves, the club opted to part ways with him this winter with Murphy expected to be healthy enough to resume primary catching duties next year and catching prospect Drake Baldwin knocking on the door at Triple-A. A reunion between dArnaud and the Rays would have certainly made sense given the clubs obvious hole behind the plate. Ben Rortvedt is on the roster as the clubs primary catcher after he posted a decent 87 wRC+ in 112 games for Tampa in 2024, but the club has parted ways with both Alex Jackson and Rene Pinto already this winter. That leaves them in need of a partner for Rortvedt, and preferably one who can become their primary catcher and allow Rortvedt to shift into a backup role. Thats a bill dArnaud wouldve fit nicely, offering a substantial upgrade over the clubs 67 wRC+ from the catcher position in 2024. That wasnt meant to be, however. Topkin notes that dArnaud (a native of Long Beach, CA) was motivated to return to southern California, and his two-year, $12MM pact with the club allowed him to do just that. Even as dArnaud landed elsewhere, however, Topkin suggests that free agency remains the best place for the Rays to find an upgrade behind the plate with few options known to be available on the trade market. Topkin suggests that veteran backstops Danny Jansen and Kyle Higashioka could be the best fits for the Rays needs behind the plate. Jansen, 29, struggled badly after a hot start this year but was a reliable presence behind the plate for Toronto in a part-time role from 2021-23 with an excellent .237/.317/.487 slash line (121 wRC+) in 754 trips to the plate over those three seasons. Even in his down 2024 season, he hit a respectable .237/.372/.342 against left-handed pitching this year, making him a solid platoon partner for Rortvedt. Higashioka, on the other hand, is coming off a strong platform season but has less of a track record offensively and is entering the market at age 34. After spending parts of seven seasons in the Bronx, Higashioka split time with Luis Campusano behind the plate in San Diego this season and flashed impressive power with 17 home runs in just 264 trips to the plate. That incredible pace is somewhat stymied by his lackluster .263 on-base percentage, however, leaving him with a 105 wRC+ overall last year. Higashiokas contributions were fairly split neutral this year as well, making him perhaps a somewhat less attractive platoon partner for Rortvedt than Jansen. That said, its at least possible that Jansen and Higashioka could wind up out of the Rays price range this winter. MLBTR predicted two-year guarantees for both players on our annual Top 50 MLB Free Agents list. We predicted that Jansen will land a $20MM guarantee while Higashioka will find a guarantee of $15MM. For a Rays club that RosterResource projects for an $87MM payroll in 2025 after opening the 2024 campaign with a payroll just under $100MM, an annual salary in the $8MM to $10MM range might be difficult for the club to justify when the club could also look to upgrade its outfield mix this winter. Carson Kelly, Elias Diaz, James McCann, and Gary Sanchez are among the other options available this winter who could be had for a lesser guarantee than Jansen and Higashioka if the Rays are looking to save money. MONROE COUNTY, MI An Ohio man was arrested Saturday afternoon after he allegedly pointed a handgun at a fellow motorist traveling on I-75. Monroe County Central Dispatch was called at 3:21 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16, for a report of an alleged road rage incident on northbound I-75 in Erie Township near mile marker 4 north of the Ohio boarder, according to the Monroe County Sheriffs Office. ANN ARBOR, MI A small group of demonstrators stood outside Michigan Stadium and instructed Whites to stop watching football. The demonstration unfolded Saturday afternoon, Nov. 16, near the closed gates of the Big House in Ann Arbor. The University of Michigans football team was on a bye Saturday, and foot-traffic was less heavy than a typical fall Saturday when more than 100,000 people flood the streets. Demonstrators are allegedly part of a group identified as, White Lives Matter Michigan. The group shared photos from the rally Saturday afternoon on X, formerly Twitter. ALSO READ: Howell officials condemn white supremacist march through downtown Photos of the demonstration show less than a dozen people dressed in all black outside of the stadium. Some held signs with the words, White Lives Matter, printed in bold letters. The group was ordering, Whites to stop watching football while Whites go extinct. Many in the Ann Arbor community were shocked at the groups appearance. Several people posted pictures on social media of demonstrators standing outside the stadium. A small group of demonstrators holding White Lives Matter signs stood outside of Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024. (Photo provided by Elizabeth Collins)Photo provided by Elizabeth Collins Elizabeth Collins was driving past the stadium toward Main Street when she saw a group of men dressed in black with masks and holding signs. Collins, of Ann Arbor, was in shock. So much so that she drove around the stadium again and took some photos. The biggest (sign) I saw was White Lives Matter, Collins told MLive/The Ann Arbor News on Sunday. The Anti-Defamation League says White Lives Matter is a white supremacist phrase that originated in early 2015 as a racist response to the Black Lives Matter movement, which arose to protest police brutality against Black Americans. The Southern Poverty Law Center calls it a neo-Nazi group that is growing into a movement. One resident in a Facebook group called Ann Arbor Area Community is encouraging people to gather at 5 p.m. Sunday at Michigan Stadium to cleanse that area of the hate they brought to our city. Any additional information from the University of Michigan Division of Public Safety and Security was not immediately available. A message left with White Lives Matter Michigan seeking comment was not immediately returned Sunday. In neighboring Livingston County earlier this month, demonstrators waved Nazi flags in the air just outside an American Legion post hosting a play of The Diary of Anne Frank near Howell. A small number of masked protestors were seen Saturday, Nov. 9, waving flags with swastikas. In July, there was a white supremacist group that marched in downtown Howell chanting Heil Hitler. Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page, the Ypsilanti-area news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter. VIENNA TWP., MI A new store that will soon breathe life back into the former Clio-area Kmart building is looking to hire staff. Family Farm & Home is opening a location at the old Kmart building, located at 4290 W. Vienna Road in Vienna Township, in March of 2025, according to the Vienna Township Business Development Authority. The new store is currently hiring team leaders, receivers, and assistant managers. Anyone interested in applying for a position with the store can visit the companys website. Family Farm & Home sells a variety of products for farms, homes, and the outdoors including tools, hardware, pet supplies, clothing, and livestock feed. They have several of these stores across the state, and I would believe that its similar to Tractor Supply (Company) in a way, Vienna Township Supervisor Joseph Rizk said. Its not solely relegated just to that. They have a lot of things. The new Family Farm & Home store will be less than a mile away from a Tractor Supply Co. store, located at 4058 W. Vienna Road in Vienna Township. The old Kmart building has been vacant since the store permanently closed its doors in 2019. Family Farm & Home purchased the property at auction, according to Rizk. Family Farm & Home does not have any plans to change the exterior of the building, according to Vienna Township Building Coordinator Jennifer Wohlfeill. Rizk said the township was very pleased with the companys plans for the interior of the store. Theyre just restructuring it, nothing too radical, Wohlfeill said. Family Farm & Home did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the new store. There are three additional Family Farm & Home locations in Genesee County, including Swartz Creek, Burton, and Fenton. Want more Flint-area news? Bookmark the local Flint news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Flint daily newsletter. Stephanie Moon, the mother of two Ypsilanti elementary students, gets emotional talking about seeing her first child safe after gunshots triggered a building lockdown. I grabbed her by her backpack and I pulled her through the doors, and I just grabbed onto her, said a tearful Moon, who couldnt let go of the 6-year-old or her sister, 8, who was dismissed later. British traveler Phil Carr shared his experience in Longyearbye, Svalbard, calling it "the strangest place on Earth." This settlement is located on the Norwegian archipelago in the Arctic Ocean, just a few miles from the North Pole. ADVERTISIMENT Its remoteness, extreme weather conditions and strict safety regulations made an indelible impression on Carr. According to the traveler, this trip left him with mixed emotions - from admiration to a sense of constant danger. Remoteness and extreme conditions Phil Carr described Longyear as a place with extreme conditions where life is a real challenge. During his visit in the summer, he enjoyed constant daylight and temperatures around six degrees Celsius. However, in winter, the settlement is plunged into complete darkness, which, combined with the polar cold, creates very harsh living conditions. ADVERTISIMENT Security features: the threat from polar bears Carr said that immediately upon arrival, he was informed of the need to be prepared for encounters with polar bears. When traveling outside the safe zone, travelers are required to have a weapon or be accompanied by an armed person. There are more polar bears on the island than local residents, and an encounter with them can be deadly. Attractions for tourists Among the interesting places Phil visited were the Museum of North Pole Expeditions and a unique restaurant with local cuisine. He was especially impressed by the Global Seed Vault, which is called the "Doomsday Store." Seeds of all the world's important crops are stored in special tunnels here, which may become a necessity in the event of a global catastrophe. ADVERTISIMENT Svalbard's special status Although the archipelago belongs to Norway, no visa is required to enter, which, according to Carr, makes it something akin to international waters. He noted that Norway oversees the island, protects its wildlife, maintains peace, and controls natural resources. Safety tips Carr also shared tips for tourists planning to visit Longyearbye. The island offers a variety of activities, from boating and trekking to snowmobiling. However, he warned against rash actions, as even a small mistake can lead to serious problems. ADVERTISIMENT Charming places to stay In conclusion, Phil raved about the diverse pubs and restaurants in Long inh ai. He explained that the atmosphere here is unique due to the mix of tourists, locals, scientists, and researchers. Despite the cold, the island has camping spots, hostels, and hotels where you can spend the night for 230. An amazing place for the most adventurous Longyear also boasts other amenities such as schools, a tax-free shopping center, and even a ski slope. Phil Carr advises visiting the settlement only for those who are ready for its harsh conditions. In his opinion, such trips should be made only with like-minded people, because the feeling of isolation can be too strong for the unprepared. Subscribe to the OBOZ.UA channels in Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events. JACKSON, MI -- The Jackson County Animal Shelter, 3770 Spring Arbor Road, has many pets available for adoption. Here are two of them. Journey is a female 8-year-old hound mix that is looking for her forever home. She is friendly, house trained and happy to greet all guests. Journey likes to go outside for walks. She is youthful in her demeanor as she likes to play and be active. Hounds can be very loyal, intelligent and independent. They make great family pets. Rocky Road is a 7-year-old male shorthair cat who was surrendered by his owner. He has unique markings, black ears and a black tail but is otherwise all white. Rocky gets along well with the other cats where he is housed. This sweet, calm guy is fond of naps and snacks. Rocky loves attention and to be petted. Dog adoptions require an application, online. A meet-and-greet with a dog also is mandatory. A cat room walk-through is available to test reaction. The dog adoption fee is $150 for medium and large dogs and $250 for puppies and small dogs, which includes vaccinations, microchip and sterilization. Cat adoption fees are $60 for one cat, $80 for two, which includes applicable tests, vaccinations and spay/neutering. Visiting the shelter is always best, but other adoption resources include online applications at https://www.co.jackson.mi.us/2302/Our-Adoptable-Animals, faxing 517-780-4750 or emailing animalshelter@mijackson.org. The shelters current hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. More information is available on the shelters Facebook page. See more pets available for adoption at Petango.com. ANN ARBOR, MI The fact that support for Republican Donald Trump grew 17% in Ann Arbor in the Nov. 5 election left leaders of the liberal college town scratching their heads. I dont know what to make of that change, Mayor Christopher Taylor said the day after the election. Id be interested to know where that change occurred within the city, where those additional votes came from. While Harris still had over six times as many votes as Trump in Ann Arbor 59,424 to 8,951 she only did about 200 votes better than Joe Biden did four years ago, while Trump gained nearly 1,300 votes in the city. And across Washtenaw County, Harris netted 172 fewer votes than Biden had in 2020, while Trumps tally grew by 2,557. A yard sign in support of Democrat Kamala Harris in Ann Arbor on Oct. 8, 2024. (Ryan Stanton | MLive.com)Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News MLive/The Ann Arbor News has mapped the 2020 and 2024 election results for each precinct in the county, showing one area Harris lost support as Trump gained votes was around the University of Michigan campus where many students live. See 2024 results by precinct: In some parts of Ann Arbors north and west sides, Harris had over 90% support, and she had over 80% support throughout much of the city. But in some precincts around the UM campus, her support dropped to 77-79% where support for Biden was around 87-89% in 2020, as Trump saw his share of votes in some cases go up from about 10% to 20%. See 2020 results by precinct: City precincts changed from 2020 to 2024, making it difficult to compare results at a granular level, but in one campus-area precinct unchanged, Harris outpaced Trump 639-161, while in 2020 it was 764-90 between Biden and Trump. That means Harris lost 125 votes there, while Trump gained 71. In more rural areas outside of Ann Arbor, Trump had over 60% support in some cases. See totals for each city and township in the county: Trump promises mass deportations, but Ann Arbor still doesnt plan to help Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter. Krakow is known for its history, incredible architecture and relatively low prices by European standards. The city has eight separate parks that form a circular walking route. It is the perfect place to enjoy a coffee while admiring nature. ADVERTISIMENT Experts called Krakow an ideal place for an autumn city vacation. The city's historic district was one of the first sites included in the UNESCO World Heritage List and is one of the best historical monuments in Poland. In late autumn, the weather in Krakow can be chilly with temperatures typically reaching highs between 5C and 10C, meaning travelers need to remember to pack warm clothes. In the fall, the city is filled with golden, red, yellow and crimson hues. This spectacle is especially beautiful in the Plante Park, which frames the Old Town. Krakow is a city with stunning architecture and the famous Market Square, known as Rynek Gowny, which offers a glimpse into Poland's rich history. ADVERTISIMENT The city is filled with flat, cobblestone streets, making it extremely convenient for visitors who prefer to soak up the surroundings rather than rush from one tourist spot to another. Rynek Gowny is the second largest market square in Europe. It is home to the impressive 14th-century St. Mary's Basilica, which features intricate Gothic spires and ornate decoration. In the center of the market square are the Cloth Rows, also known as Sukennice. It is one of the city's most famous landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inside there is a gallery filled with stalls selling everything from sweets to clothes, jewelry and souvenirs. ADVERTISIMENT The building also houses a museum on the top floor called the Sukienice Museum, which contains the largest exhibition of 19th-century Polish painting and sculpture. The Rynek Underground Museum is located under the central square and takes visitors on a journey through the city's history through photographs, recreations, and archaeological finds. On a hill near the Vistula River stands the royal Wawel Castle, which incorporates the architectural styles of the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and Baroque. Inside, visitors will see huge collections of paintings, tapestries, armor, ceramics, and antique furniture. If you're not a history buff and just want to sit back and enjoy the city, there are many bars and pubs in the city that are incredibly affordable. Also worth a visit: The medieval fortification of Barbican; National Museum ("Muzeum Narodowe w Krakowie"); Jan Matejko's house; Historical Museum; The Czartoryski Museum, where you can see the original painting by Leonardo da Vinci; Jagiellonian University - one of the oldest educational institutions in Europe. Subscribe to OBOZ.UA channels in Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events. Iranian DM visits Syria to enhance defense cooperation Xinhua) 09:28, November 17, 2024 DAMASCUS, Nov. 16 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh arrived in Syria on Saturday to strengthen defense and security ties between the two countries, according to Syria's Al-Watan Online newspaper. "Everyone knows the important position of the Syrian Arab Republic in Iranian foreign policy," Nasirzadeh told reporters upon his arrival. "We came to Damascus based on an invitation from the Syrian defense minister, and we will have meetings with political and military officials to discuss several common issues between the two countries, especially in the field of defense and security, aiming to expand cooperation and exchange expertise between the two sides," he was quoted as saying by Al-Watan. Nasirzadeh praised Syria's experience in combating terrorism and its role in the regional "axis of resistance," an anti-Israel bloc, which also includes Iran, Hezbollah, Hamas, and militant groups in Iraq and Syria, among others. "Syria has an ancient history and deep experience in combating terrorism, and it is a key supporter in the axis of resistance," he said, stressing that "we are ready to provide all means of support to this friendly state." The Iranian minister's visit comes amid intensified Israeli attacks on Syria's military sites and pro-Iran assets. (Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Zhong Wenxing) On the night of November 17, Russian troops launched a massive combined missile and drone strike on Kyiv. The attack damaged a residential high-rise building in the Pechersk district of the capital. ADVERTISIMENT One victim is known to have been injured. Photos from the scene were provided by the Kyiv State Emergency Service. As a result of a Russian missile and drone attack on the night of November 17, a multi-story building was damaged in the Pechersk district of the capital. "The shelling caused a fire on an area of 0.5 square meters and partial destruction of the ceiling of a five-story residential building in the Pechersk district of the city. One of the apartments on the 5th floor was also damaged. As a result, 1 person was injured, and 30 others were evacuated to the fresh air," the Kyiv State Emergency Service said. ADVERTISIMENT They added that 12 firefighters and 3 pieces of equipment were involved in eliminating the consequences of the attack. Earlier it was reported that emergency blackouts were introduced in Ukraine due to the missile attack on November 17. The restrictions were first applied to Kyiv, Kyiv region, Donetsk and Dnipropetrovs'k regions. Electricity was also cut off in Zhytomyr, Poltava and other regions of the country. Energy Minister Herman Galushchenko clarified that the latest Russian attack was aimed at electricity generation and transmission facilities across the country. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber . Do not fall for fakes! During a massive missile and drone attack by Russian troops on the night of November 17, F-16 pilots shot down about 10 air targets. The liquidation of the consequences of the enemy's terror in Rivne, Lviv, Dnipro, Volyn, and Odesa regions is currently underway. ADVERTISIMENT In total, over the past week, the occupiers have used almost 140 missiles of various types, about a thousand guided aerial bombs, and more than 600 attack drones to strike Ukraine. This was announced by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy. According to the Head of State, over the past week, the aggressor used almost 140 missiles of various types, more than 900 guided aerial bombs, and more than 600 attack drones to strike Ukraine. The invaders struck Ukraine especially hard on the night of November 17. "Today our F-16 pilots shot down about 10 air targets. We are now eliminating the consequences of a combined attack on our infrastructure in Rivne, Lviv, Dnipro, Volyn, and Odesa regions," Zelenskyy said. ADVERTISIMENT This time, first of all, the terrorist state tried to strike at critical infrastructure to leave Ukrainians in the cold and dark on the eve of winter. "Russian terrorists once again want to intimidate us with cold and lack of light. They are repeating their actions and trying to get results from them. The whole world sees and knows that we are defending ourselves against absolute evil, which does not understand any language but force. We need unity, the world needs unity. Only together can we stop this evil," the President emphasized. ADVERTISIMENT Last night and on the morning of November 17, Russia launched a massive attack on Ukraine. The energy sector came under attack, including DTEK thermal power plants. In several regions, there were injuries and deaths as a result of the hostile attacks. According to the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, this missile attack was perhaps the largest in the entire war. On the night of November 17, the Russian army raised dozens of aircraft and used 210 air attack weapons. The defenders of the skies shot down 102 Russian missiles of various types and 42 drones, and almost as many drones were lost locally. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber . Do not fall for fakes! On November 17, Russia launched a massive attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, which led to power outages in many regions. Emergency blackouts were introduced in Kyiv, Odesa, Volyn, Vinnytsia, Donetsk and Dnipro regions. ADVERTISIMENT This was reported by DTEK. "In case of changes, we will promptly inform you," the company said. At the same time, the KCMA explained that due to the threat of a missile attack, Kyiv may introduce emergency power outage schedules. They called it a preventive measure. Electricity was also cut off in Zhytomyr, Poltava and other regions of the country. Energy Minister Herman Galushchenko said that on Sunday , Russia launched another massive attack on Ukraine' s energy system. In particular, the enemy targeted electricity generation and transmission facilities throughout Ukraine. "The transmission system operator has urgently introduced emergency power outages. Where possible, rescuers and power engineers are already working to eliminate the consequences. Light will win!" he wrote. ADVERTISIMENT Russia also shelled DTEK's thermal power plants and severely damaged the equipment. According to preliminary information, there were no casualties. The attacks severely damaged the plants' equipment. After the shelling ended, employees of the companies promptly began to repair the damage and restore the equipment. The attack covered a large area of Ukraine, affecting important energy facilities in different regions. These are: Volyn region: according to the Volyn Regional Military Administration, there were hits to energy infrastructure facilities. Transformer substations were damaged, which led to power outages; according to the Volyn Regional Military Administration, there were hits to energy infrastructure facilities. Transformer substations were damaged, which led to power outages; Odesa region: in Odesa, several hits were recorded on generation facilities, which led to the stoppage of electric transport and massive power outages. According to the local operator, outage schedules do not apply in such cases, so it may take a long time to restore power supply. Queues formed near the pump rooms due to the interruptions in water supply; ADVERTISIMENT Rivne region: hits to the energy infrastructure in the region led to power outages in some areas; hits to the energy infrastructure in the region led to power outages in some areas; Kryvyi Rih: arrivals in the city caused large-scale power outages. The local authorities urged residents to remain calm and prepare for possible prolonged power outages; arrivals in the city caused large-scale power outages. The local authorities urged residents to remain calm and prepare for possible prolonged power outages; Vinnytsia region: there were hits to critical infrastructure facilities. Preliminary reports indicate that there were no casualties, but there was an emergency power outage. In Odesa, where the airplanes caused significant damage, all electric transport has stopped. The power outage has caused problems with water supply, especially in areas where pumping stations cannot be connected to generators. Most of the pumping stations have been switched to autonomous power sources, but this does not always ensure a stable water supply. ADVERTISIMENT Once the power supply is restored, water supply will be resumed in the coming hours. In the meantime, residents of Odesa are forced to queue at the pump rooms, which indicates the seriousness of the situation. Earlier, CEO of Yasno energy company Serhiy Kovalenko explained that preventive blackouts do not depend on the current deficit in the system, but on the actions of the aggressor. "The answer to the question "Are we going to shut down every time now?" (during shelling - Ed.). We will shut down as much as necessary. Believe me, no one wants to do this just to make people angry. But, as you rightly said, we are at war in our country. So we apologize for the inconvenience," he said. As a reminder, last night after 03:00, the Russians took 17 Tu-95 strategic bombers into the air, and in the morning they launched missiles. The enemy also launched Kalibr missiles from missile carriers in the Black Sea. Explosions were heard in a number of regions of Ukraine after repeated alarms. As reported by OBOZ.UA, on November 16, the Zaporizhzhia NPP, which is under occupation, was again on the verge of blackout. The damaged infrastructure complicates the operation of the power system across the country. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! On November 17, Orthodox believers honor the memory of St. Gregory, Bishop of Neocaesarea. Name days are celebrated by Hennadiy, Hryhoriy, Zakhar, Ivan, Mykhailo, Yana, and Victoria. ADVERTISIMENT The world celebrates International Students' Day, World Premature Infants' Day, International No Smoking Day, and in Ukraine - Agricultural Workers' Day. OBOZ.UA tells about the holidays and significant events of this day. What holidays are celebrated on November 17 November 17, according to the New Julian calendar, is the day of remembrance of St. Gregory the Wonderworker, who was the Bishop of Neocaesarea. Gregory lived in the desert, defending the outcasts and the poor. He became famous for his sermons. When Gregory entered the cathedral, there were only 17 Christians in Neocesarea, but before his death there were only a few pagans left. International Students' Day is celebrated around the world every year on November 17, commemorating an event that took place in Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia. On October 28, 1939, students and professors of Prague universities held a peaceful demonstration. The participants were arrested and shot by the Nazis, and the survivors were sent to concentration camps. ADVERTISIMENT According to a presidential decree of 1993, the professional holiday of workers of the agricultural and agro-industrial complex, organizations and enterprises for the processing of agricultural raw materials, service and procurement enterprises, and the food industry is celebrated on the third Sunday of November. November 17, 2024 is also the Farmer's Day and the holiday of all farmers. Other countries around the world also celebrate November 17: World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims; World Day of Preterm Infants; Day of Struggle for Freedom and Democracy in the Czech Republic and Slovakia; National Revival Day of Azerbaijan; National Black Cat Day in the United States. Notable historical events on November 17 1663 - the so-called "Baturyn Articles" are signed between Hetman I. Bryukhovetsky and the Moscow government, limiting the hetman's power in Ukraine in favor of the Moscow tsar. ADVERTISIMENT 1804 - Kharkiv University is founded. 1869 - the Suez Canal was officially opened in Egypt. 1913 - The first ship sailed through the Panama Canal. 1939 - Thousands of Prague students and their teachers took to the streets to protest the Nazi occupation, but were arrested and shot or sent to concentration camps. 1969 - Soviet-American negotiations on strategic arms limitation begin in Helsinki. 1971 - military coup in Northern Ireland. 1989 - police dispersed a student demonstration in Prague, timed to coincide with the 50th anniversary of protests against the Nazi occupation of 1939. This actually began the "Velvet Revolution" that overthrew communist rule in the Czechoslovak Socialist Republic. 1994 - The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine repealed the Declaration of Sovereignty of Crimea. 2019 - the first person infected with COVID-19 was detected in China. ADVERTISIMENT Who was born on November 17 9 - Vespasian, Roman emperor, founder of the Flavian dynasty. 1749 - Nicolas Apere, French inventor; developed a method of food preservation. 1790 - August Ferdinand Mobius, German geometer and astronomer. 1811 - Mykola Ivanyshev, professor at Kyiv University, author of works on the history of Ukrainian legal institutions. 1901 - Lee Strasberg, American director, actor and producer of Ukrainian descent. 1906 - Honda Soichiro, Japanese engineer and entrepreneur. In 1948 he founded the Honda company. 1942 - Martin Scorsese, director of American and world cinema. 1944 - Danny DeVito, comedy actor. 1965 - Ruslana Pysanka, Ukrainian actress and TV presenter. 1966 - Sophie Marceau, French actress and film director. 1982 - Sofia Andrukhovych, Ukrainian writer, translator, and publicist. Died on this day: 1558 - Mary I Tudor, Queen of England (1553-1558), nicknamed Bloody Mary. 1776 - James Ferguson, Scottish mathematician and astronomer, creator of the eighteenth-century instruments. 1917 - Auguste Rodin, French sculptor. 1940 - Raymond Pearl, American zoologist, one of the founders of biometrics. 1954 - Tadeusz Banachowicz, Polish astronomer and mathematician. 2013 - Doris Lessing, English feminist writer and poet, winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature. Subscribe to OBOZ.UA channels in Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has supported German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's idea to call the Russian dictator. According to him, in order to end the war, interaction with Vladimir Putin will be required. ADVERTISIMENT At the same time, Trudeau added that Canada and its allies continue to work closely with Ukraine. This was reported by Bloomberg. The head of the Canadian government emphasized that it would be nice to have an open line of communication with Putin. Despite the fact that some European politicians disagreed with Scholz's decision to call Putin, the Canadian prime minister praised the chancellor's move. "We all understand how important it is to put an end to the violence in Ukraine and to end conflicts around the world. This requires a certain level of engagement with colleagues with whom we disagree in many cases," Trudeau said at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit. At the same time, Trudeau emphasized that the trust he has in Putin is at an all-time low. He said Canada is committed to Ukraine's victory and wants to see the conflict end as soon as possible. ADVERTISIMENT "There may be windows in which that can happen in the coming months," Trudeau said, without elaborating. As a reminder, on November 15, Scholz and Putin had their first telephone conversation in two years. The Russian dictator used this conversation to try to influence the German government and other Western countries to support Kyiv. As reported by OBOZ.UA, former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson reacted to the telephone conversation between German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Russian dictator Vladimir Putin. According to him, contact with the Kremlin leader threatens to return to the Franco-German-Normandy format. Earlier it was reported that Putin continues his campaign to influence the West. He seeks to force Ukraine's Western partners to put pressure on our country by reducing military aid and insisting on negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow. Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber . Do not fall for fakes! On the morning of November 17, Russian terrorists launched another massive attack on Ukraine. During the attack, the enemy used cruise, ballistic, and aerial ballistic missiles, as well as kamikaze attack drones. ADVERTISIMENT Russian missiles and drones entered Ukraine from the north, east, and south. A map of the movement of missiles and drones during the massive attack was published on Telegram. In the north, the Russians launched kamikaze drones from the Khalino airfield in the Kursk region, and in the southeast, from airfields in Yeysk and Primorsko-Akhtarsk. Cruise missiles were fired at Ukraine from ships in the Black Sea, as well as from Tu-95MS strategic bombers. In addition, Putin's terrorists launched a number of ballistic and aerial ballistic missiles. According to the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, a total of 210 enemy air targets 120 missiles and 90 UAVs were detected and escorted by radio engineering troops. The enemy attacked the energy sector facilities of Ukraine. The map shows that on the morning of November 17, Russian missiles or drones flew over almost every corner of the country. ADVERTISIMENT As a reminder, on the night of November 17, Russia launched a massive combined attack on all regions of Ukraine. The enemy launched about 120 missiles and 90 drones at Ukrainian cities and villages. The air defense forces destroyed more than 140 enemy air attack vehicles, the invaders targeted primarily the energy sector, and there were casualties. Earlier it was reported that during a massive missile and drone attack by Russian troops on the night of November 17, F-16 pilots shot down about 10 air targets. Currently, the consequences of the enemy terror are being eliminated in Rivne, Lviv, Dnipro, Volyn, and Odesa regions. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber . Do not fall for fakes! USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Rescuers have recovered a part of a Russian missile from an apartment in a five-story building in Kyiv's Pechersk district after a massive attack on Sunday morning, November 17. It was handed over to experts for examination. ADVERTISIMENT This was reported by the press service of the State Emergency Service. Photos and videos of the rescuers' work were also published. Using a crane, the SES employees, together with the pyrotechnic unit of the agency's Mobile Rescue Center for Rapid Response, removed part of the rocket from the five-story building. The remains of the rocket were handed over to the competent units for further examination, the SES reported. ADVERTISIMENT ADVERTISIMENT As OBOZ.UA reported, on Sunday morning, the Russian army sent about 120 missiles and 90 UAVs against Ukraine. The air defense forces destroyed more than 140 targets, the enemy primarily targeted the energy sector, and there were dead and wounded. The aggressor's missiles and UAVs even reached Zakarpattia. In Kyiv, air defense forces destroyed X-101/55, "Kinzhal," "Iskander-M" (KN-23), and probably "Zircon" missiles and up to a dozen attack UAVs. There is a victim, who was hospitalized in satisfactory condition. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber . Do not fall for fakes! On the morning of November 17, the aggressor country Russia launched massive missiles at Ukraine from strategic bombers and ships in the Black Sea, and attacked with kamikaze drones. In Kyiv, the roof of a residential building caught fire due to falling debris, and the consequences of the attack are being recorded in other regions of our country. ADVERTISIMENT This was reported by the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and local military administrations. This time, Russia focused on causing maximum damage to the Ukrainian energy system and attacked generating and distribution facilities. Last night's attack was the most powerful in the last three months. During the massive combined missile and drone strike on Ukrainian cities and, in particular, the capital, the invaders used Kh-101/55 cruise missiles from Tu-95MS strategic aircraft, Kinzhal air defense missiles from MiG-31K, Iskander-M (KN-23) ballistic missiles, Zircon missiles, Kalibr cruise missiles from the Black Sea, and attack UAVs. Almost the entire territory of Ukraine was under attack. "In the capital, air alert was announced twice and lasted almost 5 hours in total. The Defense Forces detected and destroyed several Kh-101/55 cruise missiles, several Kinzhal airborne ballistic missiles, several Iskander-M (KN-23) ballistic missiles, probably also a Zircon hypersonic missile, and up to a dozen attack UAVs in Kyiv airspace," said Serhiy Popko, head of the Kyiv City Military Administration. ADVERTISIMENT He said that a 5-storey residential building was damaged in the Pechersk district of Kyiv as a result of the enemy attack. In Holosiivsky and Dniprovsky districts, debris fell in the open and on non-residential premises. "We know for sure about one victim with a head wound, she was hospitalized in a satisfactory condition," Popko added. A fire broke out in the Lviv region due to the falling debris of a downed Russian missile. "In one of the districts of the region, as a result of the fall of the enemy missile fragments, there was destruction followed by a fire in the garages. Firefighters are working at the scene," the Lviv State Emergency Service said. ADVERTISIMENT Dnipropetrovs'k region has also been hit: in Dnipro, damage to high-rise buildings and a school has been recorded, and there are consequences in other districts of the region. "The aggressor attacked Dnipro in the morning. So far, we know about one injured person. A 42-year-old man received shrapnel wounds. He is being provided with all necessary assistance. High-rise buildings, an educational institution and a car were damaged. It was also noisy in Kryvyi Rih, Samarivskyi district and Kamianskyi district. Several fires broke out," said Serhiy Lysak, head of the Dnipro Regional Military Administration, adding that the consequences of the enemy shelling are still being clarified. Oleksandr Vilkul, head of the Kryvyi Rih Defense Council, provided more details about the Russian attack on the city. ADVERTISIMENT "The enemy hit an infrastructure facility with a missile. The destruction is extensive, but thank God, we do not see any casualties yet. There are damages in the residential sector and two schools. There were emergency shutdowns of boiler houses and pumping stations and several powerful water hammer impacts on water and heat supply networks. Subsequently, Ukrenergo applied emergency shutdowns," he said. Vilkul emphasized that the emergency shutdowns will continue until they are canceled. "Hospitals switched to generators. There was a water drawdown, many pumping stations switched to generators, and now we are pressurizing the pipes. Boiler houses are being reconnected. Where there are no high-voltage ones, we switched to generators," he added. Vilkul also reminded the citizens of the heating points, the residents of Kryvyi Rih can find the nearest one using an interactive map. ADVERTISIMENT In the Volyn region, the occupiers struck at the energy infrastructure. "Unfortunately, Volyn region was hit during the air raid. The energy infrastructure was damaged. According to preliminary information, there were no casualties. All relevant services are currently working to eliminate the consequences," said Ivan Rudnytsky, head of the Volyn Regional Military Administration. In Zaporizhzhia, the enemy also attacked critical infrastructure: at least three strikes were made. "Russians struck three times in Zaporizhzhia. As in the rest of Ukraine, they targeted the critical infrastructure of the region... The extent of the damage is being determined. Wherever possible, emergency services are already working," said Ivan Fedorov, head of the Zaporizhzhia Regional Military Administration. Later, information about the victims appeared. ADVERTISIMENT "According to the updated information, two people were injured in the enemy attack on Zaporizhzhia. A 59-year-old man is in hospital. Doctors are providing all necessary assistance. An 18-year-old boy refused to be hospitalized after being examined by doctors," said Fedorov. On the morning of November 17, Ukrainian Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko said that the enemy had targeted the Ukrainian power system. Due to the attack, emergency power outages are being introduced in a number of regions. "Another massive attack on the power grid is taking place. The enemy is attacking power generation and transmission facilities across Ukraine. The transmission system operator has urgently introduced emergency power outages. Where possible, rescuers and power engineers are already working to eliminate the consequences," he said at 07:30. ADVERTISIMENT In particular, DTEK's thermal power plants were hit by the Russian Federation. The company reported serious damage to its equipment "Today, the enemy carried out a massive terrorist attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. DTEK's thermal power plants were attacked. According to preliminary information, there are no casualties. The attacks severely damaged the plants' equipment. After the shelling ended, the employees of the enterprises promptly began to eliminate the consequences and restore the equipment," DTEK said in a statement. It added that this is the eighth time since the beginning of the year that DTEK's energy companies have been attacked by Russia. In total, since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, DTEK's thermal power plants have been shelled more than 190 times. According to monitoring channels, Tu-95MS bombers took off from the Olenya airfield in the Murmansk region of the Russian Federation at night. In total, up to 17 planes were moving to the launch area. They were flying on a southeast course toward the Caspian region of the Russian Federation. ADVERTISIMENT Later it became known that two groups of such bombers were in the air - 10 from the Olenya airfield were moving towards the launch positions near Engels; - 7 from the Engels airfield were moving towards the Tsymlyanskoye reservoir/Caspian Sea. At about 06:00, the Air Force reported that the aggressor launched missiles from strategic bombers. "Follow our messages and do not ignore the air raid alerts," the military called. They also warned of possible Russian launches of Kalibr missiles from the Black Sea. There were four missile-carrying ships with a total volley of up to 24 missiles. At about 07:00, explosions were heard in Kyiv, Dnipro, Kryvyi Rih, and Zaporizhzhia. As reported by OBOZ.UA, on November 11, the Russian Federation launched a group of Tu-95MS strategic bombers. Enemy MiG-31Ks, which are carriers of the Kinzhal missiles, were also on the launch line. As a result, no real launches took place. The departure of such a large number of aircraft turned out to be a large-scale training exercise for Russian aviation. The situation was similar in the morning of November 15. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! A Venus in front of a pile of used clothes and other trash, a work by Pistoletto on display at 'Arte Povera' in Paris (France). Image provided. Arte povera or poor art will go down in history as one of the most unusual episodes of 20th-century art. The movement, made up of artists such as Michelangelo Pistoletto, Giuseppe Penone, Giovanni Anselmo, and Jannis Kounellis, rebelled against the capitalist system of production and consumption, amid a context of rapid industrialization in 1960s Italy. At the time, the country was in ruins and searching for a new direction. The mostly Italian artists all used ephemeral and modest materials in their work, such as cardboard, wood, cement, neon lights, old clothes, plastic tarpaulins and newspapers. They distanced themselves from the norms of the art market, while also avoiding dominant trends, such as abstract expressionism, pop art, or minimalism. The result was a set of modest and eclectic works of art. This is demonstrated by the vast and strange mix of 250 works that are currently part of the exhibition dedicated to arte povera at the Paris Bourse (stock exchange). The 19th-century building is home to the foundation set up by billionaire arts patron Francois Pinault. Until January 20, this circular building remodeled during the pandemic by Japanese architect Tadao Ando exhibits mattresses covered in frost, a sack of potatoes, a Doric column with a hose at its base, a motorcycle with cattle horns (instead of handlebars), as well as an array of humble, igloo-shaped structures by Mario Merz. During the final stretch in the installation of the exhibit, Pinault strolled past the igloos, greeting visitors with brief bonjours. The 'Arte Povera' exhibition, in Paris. Florent Michel (La Bourse de Commerce / Pinault Collection) An installation by Pistoletto combines a nude Venus with a pile of rags, as if to symbolize the clash between the rich artistic heritage of the Renaissance and the wastefulness of consumer society. Outside, stones grow from a tree an idea from the mythical Penone while an ice sculpture melts with the passing of time. We wanted to do something that didnt exist before, said 80-year-old artist Gilberto Zorio at the opening, standing next to a participatory work that uses microphones to replicate the voices of visitors with a resonant echo. The exhibition tells the story of an avant-garde group that never perceived itself as such. It wasnt a movement like surrealism or cubism, because it had no manifesto or leaders. It was more of a current, or a constellation, says the exhibitions curator, Carolyn Christov-Bakargiev, an Italian-American art historian known for having orchestrated the 2012 edition of the German contemporary art exhibition Documenta. The Italian expression arte povera came from the critic Germano Celant. In 1967, he went to see the groups founding exhibition in Genoa, followed by another in Amalfi a few months later. The insignificant begins to exist, it imposes itself, Celant declared, while discovering the works of these provocative artists, who were in their thirties at the time. Their first works simple, yet provocative in spirit were characterized by the use of materials typically considered unsuitable for art. However, some of the young artists also used more traditional materials, such as bronze, marble, Murano glass, or even gold. Hence, arte povera is more an attitude or an intention than a style, Christov-Bakargiev explains. The works considered to be precursors of installation art sought to transform space and alter the environment. The work becomes a theatrical scene that reflects the energy of life and reality, the curator adds. Giuseppe Penone, Francois Pinault and Michelangelo Pistoletto during the opening of the exhibition at the Paris Stock Exchange in mid-October. Luc Castel (Getty Images) The exhibition links the movement to altissima poverta (or supreme poverty) theorized by St Francis of Assisi, who advocated in favor of the renunciation of material goods. He praised the idea of an existence devoted to spiritual life and communion with nature. The strange thing is that this homage to an austere and rebellious movement takes place in Pinaults private foundation. Hes the third-richest man in France, with 150 works of arte povera in his personal collection. He has donated 50 for the ongoing exhibition. But Pinault isnt the only prominent person whos been interested in this movement. The Prada Foundation in Milan, chaired by another great European collector, Miuccia Prada, recently exhibited the works of Pino Pascali, another great name inscribed in the movement. And, a few years ago, it did the same with artworks by Kounellis. At the beginning of this year, the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao opened an exhibition dedicated to Giovanni Anselmo who died shortly before while the museums New York branch has included several works from the arte povera movement in the new presentation of its collection, which can be visited until January 2025. In mid-October, the Art Basel fair in Paris included numerous works by artists associated with arte povera, while in London, the auction house Christies sold a painting by Alighiero Boetti for over $3 million. In 2022, the Italian artist had already reached $9 million in another sale. The world record in this movement is held by one of the so-called achromes or canvases devoid of color by the Milanese artist Piero Manzoni, a pioneer of the movement. In 2014, someone paid $20 million for one of his paintings. 'Aerei' (1989), a late work by Alighiero Boetti, another of the names inscribed in the movement, on display at Christie's headquarters before an auction in March 2024. Malcolm Park /Alamy Stock Photo Over time, works of arte povera have, ironically, become luxury items. In the 1990s, Gianni Agnelli, the patriarch of Italian automobile manufacturer Fiat, purchased samples from the radical movement that was supposed to denounce the actions of men like him in the world. How can we explain the fact that poor art is cheered on today by the richest men and women in the world? In their time, the popes of Rome bought works by Caravaggio. Power rarely buys art thats dedicated to celebrating it, answers Christov-Bakargiev, who recalls that the first collectors she received were middle-managers from Italian or German industries. Ultimately, the critical attitude towards capitalist excesses may have seduced industrialists with a guilty conscience at the time. Whether they were aware of it or not, supporting this movement allowed them to reshape their image, as if they were burning their wealth in the bonfire of vanity. The connection with modesty and material things reminded them of where they came from: humble, peasant families origins they had distanced themselves from while building their fortunes. In the 1960s, Pinault founded the PPR company, the precursor of the current Kering Group. He made his fortune trading in timber, which is the most common material in the exhibition that hes now presenting at his foundation. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Feminism began the day the first person raised their voice against the oppression of women. The movement for equal rights, nonetheless, dragged on the recognition that it was largely ignoring Black and working-class women. Amid its second wave, which took place between 1960 and 1990, Gloria Jean Watkins began to vocalize her own misgivings on this point. She wasnt the first to address the triple oppression experienced by a large part of the population, but she was, alongside Angela Davis, the one who managed to begin a discourse with the disdainful white women who, until that point, had served as the faces of feminism. She named herself bell hooks in homage to her maternal great-grandmother a contrary woman who never hesitated to speak her mind styling it in lower-case letter to keep the focus on her ideas, rather than persona. It was she who paved the way towards a more inclusive and useful feminism, writes Mikki Kendall, one of the leading activists of Black thought in the United States and author of Hood Feminism: Notes from the Women That a Movement Forgot, in an email to EL PAIS. It was in 1981 that hooks declared feminism was forgetting the most vulnerable women in her groundbreaking book Aint I a Woman?, and in 1984, when she shaped a new feminist theory that included women like her. The latter book, Feminist Theory: From Margin to Center, just celebrated its 40th anniversary. The intellectual who was born amid Jim Crow laws and studied in segregated schools begins the book speaking of the train tracks that divided her town in two. The railroad tracks were a daily reminder of our marginality, she writes. Across those tracks were paved streets, stores we could not enter, restaurants we could not eat in, and people we could not look directly in the face. The book was written in language all could understand, including the telephone operators with whom hooks was working with when she began to write it after all, academics had never been her thing, shed say. Georgina Monge, a political scientist and Spanish feminist who is a hooks expert, believes the U.S. writer was the pioneer of intersectional feminist theory. Intersectionality went unnamed until U.S. lawyer Kimberle Crenshaw coined the term in 1989, but hooks was the one who popularized it, says Monge in a telephone interview. What shed come to describe, continues Monge, is that there are multiple factors that create concrete inequalities, and that we are all impacted by our position in relationship to them. Nowadays, this is taken as a given. Back then, less so. The daughter of a janitor who didnt like backtalk and a housewife, hooks grew up in a patriarchal but loving home in a rural Kentucky community, deep in the heart of the American South. Raised with five siblings, she was a voracious reader in addition to a budding poet, and saw liberatory potential in her attending university. Thanks to a scholarship, she studied literature at Stanford, where her discomfort with Betty Friedans Feminine Mystique first arose, driving her to pen Aint I a Woman? Friedan, the daughter of Jewish immigrants who was trained as a psychologist, spoke in her book of the sexual discrimination of which housewives are victim, and saw work as a pathway to freedom for women. hooks replied that there was life beyond the privileged homes of the Western middle class, and that for women in her community, work could amount to slavery. She was 19 when she began work on the book and 29 when it was published, after many rejection letters. Its title comes from the famous 1851 speech of Sojourner Truth, abolitionist leader and the first Black woman to win a court case against a white man (which reunited her with her son, who had been sold years before, just like his mother). hooks dedicates a chapter in the book to the horrific lived experiences of slaves. With it, she shows how academics have ignored the impacts of sexist and racist oppression on the lives of enslaved women. This disinterest and unconcern leads them to deliberately downplay their experience. [...] It is clear that they intensified and magnified their suffering, writes hooks. The book, Kendall says, forced feminism to reckon not only with its internal racism, but also to look squarely at its complicity (through silence, opportunism and erasure) in the oppression of marginalized women. hooks was prolific, making dozens of public appearances during which she spoke with her characteristic melodic voice. She wrote close to 40 books. When something unsettled her, she wrote about it. Her great-grandmothers contrary nature was used for good in titles like Talking Back, the transformative power of education explored in Teaching to Trangress, male feminists were invoked in The Will to Change, the latter insisting on the feminist movements need for men to play a role. She also approached the (great) subject of love with All About Love, in which she defends the revolutionary power of feelings in the care and concern for others, which transcends, she writes, romantic love. She even ventured into Buddhism hooks identified as a Christian Buddhist and wrote childrens stories in which she spoke of the beauty of Black hair. hooks books were not published in Spanish until 2017, when the editorial Traficantes de Suenos released El feminismo es para todo el mundo (a translation of Feminism is for Everybody), perhaps proof of Spains lag in addressing its own racial problems. All of us still reproduce racist and classist behavior, says Beatriz Garcia, from Traficantes de Suenos, when asked why she chose to adapt this particular hooks project. And we can change the situation by the way we act in our everyday lives. In 2004, at 52 years of age, hooks decided to leave her cosmopolitan life and return to Kentucky. She settled three and a half hours from the town where she grew up, in Berea, a small community of 15,000 inhabitants, and taught classes at Berea College, the first integrated private university in the South. I grew up in the hills of Kentucky, she said. I wanted these students to see you can be a cosmopolitan person of the world but still be connected positively to your home roots. When hooks died prematurely from kidney failure in 2021, Judy Pryor-Ramirez, Clinical Associate Professor of Public Service at New York Universitys Wagner School, wrote a beautiful text about her life. In it, Pryor-Ramirez who has organized roundtables on hooks theories recalls the healing power of those talks, in which attendees shared reflections and made suggestions on how to continue improving feminism. She also remembered the walks she took arm-in-arm with hooks through Manhattan, often en route to a meeting or event in which the writer was taking part. Pryor-Ramirez invokes a phrase that was on occasion uttered by hooks who often spoke in the third person when referring to herself in reference to people whod done their work catching up on her considerable body of critical thought, saying that they had read their bell hooks. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Xi calls for reforming IMF, World Bank, WTO, promoting Global South representation Xinhua) 14:38, November 17, 2024 RIO DE JANEIRO, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- It is important to press ahead with the reform of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank and the World Trade Organization (WTO) and to increase the representation and voice of the Global South, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in a signed article published Sunday in Brazilian media outlet Folha de S. Paulo. The article titled "A Friendship Spanning Vast Oceans A Voyage Toward a Brighter Shared Future" was released as Xi is traveling to Brazil for the 19th G20 Leaders' Summit and a state visit to the country. (Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Zhong Wenxing) Youre inferior creatures, with poor reasoning faculties, but I really feel a sort of affection for you [] You will probably not exist much longer, but as long as you do, you shall be provided food, clothing and shelter, so long as you stay out of the control room and the engine room I, Robot, by Isaac Asimov. 1950 The labor market is bracing for a technological revolution, and workers are apprehensive about it. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is set to usher in a new era but it comes at the cost of ceding control to an unrelenting digital intellect. Will it jeopardize the current paradigm of the work ecosystem? Some experts in technological development argue that there is no reason to fear the evolution of machines. They view it as just another technological leap, albeit one offering many more capabilities, which is capable of defining a new way of doing things. Others, however, are certain that everything will change. Labor lawyers, for example, believe it is necessary to define the scope of new algorithms to protect the workforce. They worry that, in an ecosystem dominated by computer programs, human factors such as health may lose their importance. Business leaders, meanwhile, have a different perspective, seeing the changes as an opportunity to streamline work processes, reduce costs over time, and improve efficiency even if it requires a significant initial investment. And many workers fear they could be replaced if they dont adapt quickly enough. The advances are already beginning to shape a new way of working that is being seen across various sectors. Humans and machines have peacefully coexisted but long-term projections suggest that thousands of tasks will be radically redefined. The wheel of progress is turning quietly but relentlessly. The current distrust many people feel toward AI stems from an age-old fear of losing control a fear that has haunted humanity ever since it became aware of its own place at the top of the evolutionary hierarchy. However, this time, it is not the threat of another species with enhanced traits that triggers this fear, but rather the boundless potential of one of humanitys greatest inventions: technology itself. Having propelled mankind to the top, technological progress now threatens to become a double-edged sword for its creators. But hasnt this always been the case? Current tools are powerful and very useful, and what they will do is mainly take care of those tedious jobs that turn many workers into robots. Contrary to popular belief, AI comes to dignify work, says Alfonso Garcia, professor and director of the Department of Systems Engineering and Automation at the University of Malaga in Spain. According to Garcia, an academic specializing in robotics, the potential of AI-driven tools did not appear overnight. It is the result of decades of experimentation. The theoretical foundations of AI were established in the mid-20th century, but their evolution has been dramatic in recent years, largely due to the power of computer equipment that has enabled more complex algorithms, which previously had no development support, he explains. A qualitative leap This ongoing progress has reached a major milestone with the advent of generative AI, which can create original content such as images, text, music, and videos functions far beyond the basic tasks of data analysis or prediction. This new capability emerged last year and is already making a significant impact on the workforce, sparking concern among many employees. Several surveys confirm this growing unease. According to the Boston Consulting Group, 42% of Spanish workers, for example, fear their jobs may be automated within the next decade due to advances in AI. This marks an increase from 36% in 2023. Interestingly, those who actively use these generative tools are the most aware of their capabilities, and as a result, the most concerned about the possibility of being replaced. But do they have reason to worry? A human-like robot at the World Intelligence Expo in Tianjin, China, on June 23. PEDRO PARDO (AFP/Getty Images) The question is not whether artificial intelligence can replace humans or not, but when it will do so. Because it will happen, says Agapito Ledezma, deputy director of the Master in Applied Artificial Intelligence at the Carlos III University of Madrid. And this is just the beginning. When AI mixes with quantum computing, we can just turn it on and let it work. The expansion of algorithms point to the rise in capabilities that every company seeks to harness: greater production, shorter execution times, and enhanced efficiency. This potential is especially beneficial for smaller companies. According to Eurostat, 8% of SMEs are already using these tools. Broadening the scope to include the entire business landscape, a study by HubSpot, a software development and marketing company based in Cambridge, reveals that over 66% of companies in Spain have already integrated AI into their operations. For more than half of them, AI has become fundamental to their daily activities. Today the focus is on improving productivity and better use of data, but soon we will see deeper transformations that will not affect the organizational model of companies as much as the products and services that they are able to offer and develop, says Xavier Gangonells, general director of the Spanish Association of Executives (AED). We are already seeing use cases where productivity is improving by between 30% and 40%. However, handing over certain managerial powers to digital entities as depicted in Isaac Asimovs I, Robot, one of the most influential works of science fiction raises ethical concerns. I think we should be very careful about artificial intelligence. If I were to guess like what our biggest existential threat is, its probably that, warned tech magnate Elon Musk, owner of Tesla and the social network X. With artificial intelligence, we are summoning the demon. In the workplace, beyond the potential for replacing humans with machines, additional threats loom. The greatest danger of deploying these tools is that they will take away your salary, says Adrian Todoli, professor of Labor and Social Security Law at the University of Valencia, who has spent years studying the relationship between humans and algorithms. In his book Algorithms, Productive and Extractive: How to Regulate Digitalization to Improve Employment and Incentivize Innovation, Todoli warns that an over-reliance on technology to organize work schedules could diminish workers bargaining power in collective negotiations, shifting the balance in favor of employers. Moreover, there is a risk to workers mental and physical health, if they are monitored by tools without feelings. In this way, the reconfiguration of labor rights appears to be the only safeguard against the new way of working, which is already upon us. If controls are not put in place, we risk becoming subordinate to artificial intelligence, as it could eventually replace current middle managers, who are in charge for these types of tasks, warns Todoli. Amazon robots on the streets of San Francisco in this image taken on August 20, 2024. Bronte Wittpenn (San Francisco Chronicle/Getty Images) Responsible use In the European Union, the main regulatory framework for artificial intelligence is the AI Act, which came into force two months ago. This law aims to foster the responsible development and use of AI across the region, adopting a risk-based approach that classifies systems into four categories: minimal risk, specific risk, high risk, and unacceptable risk. The negative effects of automation on working conditions have been widely analyzed by various scholars. Among the most prominent are economists Daron Acemoglu and Pascual Restrepo, who have extensively studied the impact of robotization on the U.S. labor market. In their paper Robots and Jobs: Evidence from the US Labor Markets, they conclude that between 1993 and 2007, each new robot introduced to the labor market resulted in the loss of six jobs, while simultaneously reducing workers wages by 1%. The disaffection felt by many people towards artificial intelligence comes from the belief that the new algorithms will destroy millions of jobs, when the truth is that a lot of people will be needed around these new tools, says Silvia Leal, an expert in new technological trends and international advisor to the OECD and the EU. Although Leal believes the influence of science fiction films has skewed many workers perceptions, the reality is that tools now exist that replicate some of the qualities seen in movies. In Terminator (1984), an artificial intelligence named Skynet gains the ability to independently control the U.S. military arsenal, a concept that once seemed purely fictional. Today, however, AI-powered drones are used by various armed forces for tasks such as reconnaissance, surveillance, and even attack missions. Additionally, advanced anti-missile systems based on AI technology are now capable of detecting, tracking, and intercepting threats like enemy aircraft. Although every film comparison exudes a certain 1980s nostalgia, reality is increasingly reflecting what was once projected in many of these films. Despite his own warnings, Elon Musk has invested billions in creating Optimus, a humanoid robot he hopes to launch for sale in less than five years, priced at $30,000. Musk envisions a future where the robot could even take care of your children. While Optimus is not a replicant like those from Blade Runner (1982), the goal is to design a human-like entity capable of taking over some tasks for its owners. Fiction has always been ahead, and these future projections we are making are far from cinematic, agrees Ledezma. What we need to figure out now is whether the rise of powerful AI will be the best or the worst thing that has ever happened to humanity. A huge market Meanwhile, what is undeniable is the economic boom surrounding the latest jewel of technological progress. According to data from the German statistical portal Statista, the global AI market reached nearly $208 billion in 2023, a volume projected to grow to nearly $2 trillion by 2030. These gigantic valuations are driven by the rapid expansion of AI tools worldwide. A study by the consulting firm PwC reveals that 73% of companies in the United States already utilize AI in some aspect of their business. However, many of the most revolutionary programs, such as ChatGPT, are free to use (albeit with some limitations), and most tools released to the market are open-source, allowing users to freely study, modify, and redistribute the software. The business is not just about you using them; its about collecting your data first and foremost, and second, you needing specific hardware to take full advantage of their potential, explains Ledezma. Another concern surrounding these tools is how they acquire their vast knowledge of human thought. All the components of a car must be approved and conform to certain quality standards. But with some of these tools this does not happen, which means that we should not trust 100% of the results they offer us, says Professor Alfonso Garcia. But are workers prepared for AI to assume certain tasks in the workforce? We are increasingly going to need employees to understand the logic of business, to be in the most human part of work and to know how to work hand in hand with technology, says Patricia Zamacola, Technology Director of LHH Recruitment Solutions (Adecco Group). We have to be trained and quickly adapt to the needs of the market so that it does not take us out of the equation. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close Former U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard attends a campaign rally of Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Nov. 4, 2024. Ecuadors Vice President Veronica Abad is packing her bags to return to her country. This comes after almost a year of being kept abroad as a peace ambassador, with the vague mission of mediating in the conflict between Israel and Palestine. And, just four days ago, she was removed from the government through an unprecedented political and legal move. The Ministry of Labor sanctioned her with a 150-day-long suspension, accusing her of unjustified abandonment of office a sentence that doesnt apply to her situation, given that shes an elected official. Additionally, the regulation thats been invoked by the Minister of Labor doesnt establish a five-month sanction, but rather a maximum of 30 days. The government, which previously declared Abad a political enemy, seeks to prevent her from assuming the presidency when President Daniel Noboa is forced to leave office in January to run in the elections, scheduled for February 9, 2025. The administrative procedure, initiated by the Ministry of Labor, was activated after an order was issued by the Foreign Ministry, which decided to transfer Abad from Tel Aviv to Ankara, the capital of Turkey, arguing that they had to protect her in the face of escalating violence in Israel. The order was for Abad to arrive in Turkey on September 1, but she arrived eight days later, on the 9th, after sending the youngest two of her three children back to Ecuador. In his latest political move, President Noboa appointed Planning Minister Sahira Moya as acting vice president, appealing to article 150 of the Constitution, due to the sitting VPs temporary absence. Abad was sanctioned for a period of five months, coinciding with the second round of the elections in 2025, when the current administrations term concludes. The entire government apparatus has reinforced the decision of the executive branch, including the Armed Forces. The head of the Joint Command, Jaime Vela, has referred to Abad as the former vice president, even though she still hasnt lost her official position. Without a proper title and without security, a salary, or her family Veronica Abad, 48, remains in Turkey. She tried to return to Ecuador to appear before the National Assembly, which summoned her to explain her situation. However, her attempt was unsuccessful. In an interview with EL PAIS via video call, Abad analyzes the details of her dismissal. She describes the presidents maneuver as an act of totalitarianism and denounces that the law has been violated by people who lack scruples. Question. Youve said that the only step missing for you not to continue in the government was for you to be killed. Do you think that the president would be capable of going that far? Answer. He had to either [remove me from my office] or take my life to avoid [the process of presidential] succession. On the one hand, I didnt imagine that he would go so far on the other hand, yes, I did. What he did to me can only be done by someone without scruples, whos willing to do anything. This is no longer just a political issue: the president is willing to do anything. It all began when [using the excuse] of my security they sent me to Turkey. They moved me from Israel to Ankara with a presidential decree that had no [justification]. They didnt provide me with security in Israel, either. Not here, not anywhere. And thats not all. The administrative [apparatus] as weve just seen is in his hands. The government manipulated the entire administrative structure to suit itself, without legal support, trampling on the laws and using power to intimidate me. Thats why Im calling on the courts to determine the legitimacy of the governments actions. Q. How have you reacted to the decision taken by the Ministry of Labor, which sanctioned you with a 150-day-long suspension? A. We presented a protective [legal] action for precautionary measures. This has already been assigned to a judge. We also asked the National Assembly to deal with this issue, to oversee it and to ask the Constitutional Court for clarification about this case. The [Office of the] Vice Presidency is going through a frightening moment, with the appointment of the person whos now in charge. So, weve presented a declaration [stating that] this is a state of rebellion. Our right to resist this outrageous action of placing a new person in charge of the vice presidency is now in writing. Weve also raised the case to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), so that it can urgently review the presidents [decision] to opt for my direct dismissal. This isnt a decision by the Minister of Labor: this is an order of the president and he should be judged for that. Q. Was it an order from the president? A. Absolutely. And hes not going to stop. [On Wednesday, November 13], he already said that he has asked the new minister of the government to investigate bank accounts in tax havens which have been invented that my son [supposedly] has. Hes going to have to answer to the international bodies, which dont seem to be following what hes doing. Hes a president who continues to soil others with mud, so that everyone else will look bad and nobody can see the evil within him. Q. Do you think that the decision by the justice system will be made before January 5, when you should assume power? A. I hope that it will. But its also true that were facing a judicial system thats under pressure from powers that dont respect the rule of law. Q. Have you spoken with anyone from the IACHR to expedite a precautionary measure and correct this sanction? A. Not directly. 15 days ago, the UN Human Rights Committee held a hearing in Geneva, where the commission questioned the Ecuadorian authorities about the case. The minister of women and the attorney general were present they never spoke about the issue, nor did they give answers regarding my case, or about other cases that are being discussed. The committee referred to its concern that justice in Ecuador is being seriously restricted by different powers, including the executive branch. Q. What do you plan to say to the National Assembly, which has summoned you? A. The truth. [The duty of the legislators] is to oversee. To say that amidst all of this theres a lack of accountability, as well as officials who, while obeying the presidents order, have done illegal things. We have to rescue the separation of powers. A single power cannot take over the country. Q. If the precautionary measures dont move forward, what will you do? A. Ill remain steadfast. I continue to believe in democracy. The laws are [meant to guarantee] freedom, for us to live in order and justice. And now, I want to fight harder for that. This isnt going to weaken me, on the contrary. Q. What bothered President Noboa so much about you? A. I dont know. But I think the president lost sight of his [moral compass] and sees Ecuador as his property. Were facing a person who has committed dictatorial acts. Q. Is the president a dictator? A. Yes, of course. Hes a totalitarian. Hes demonstrated this from the start, by exiling me. The ceiling of a democratic president should be the law, to limit their power and he doesnt like to abide by the law, because he believes himself to be all-powerful. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition The Bear Necessities of Larceny: Californians Arrested for Fraudulently Staging Bear Rampage Jonathan Turley Immaculately Preserved Saber-Tooth Cat Cub Found in Siberian Permafrost Gizmodo Three days with the true believers who wont let Bigfoot die FT Climate To Protect Vast Expanses of Ocean Beyond All National Boundaries, 60 Nations Must Ratify the Treaty of the High Seas Inside Climate News Dispatches From the COP29 Climate Talks in Baku Exposed by CMD Oil sector lobbyists the forth largest delegation at COP29 climate summit BBE Intellinews Syndemics California DPH Reports First Known U.S. Case of Emerging Mpox Strain Avian Flu Diary China? How Beijing flipped the South China Sea game with a single island South China Morning Post New Details on Chinas Powerful Hypersonic Glide Vehicle with Drone and Bomb Submunitions Military Watch Readout of President Joe Bidens Meeting with President Xi Jinping of the Peoples Republic of China The White House Whats behind some Southeast Asia countries push to join BRICS and will Trumps win be a catalyst? Channel News Asia Far From Home: Through choppy seas and porous land borders, migrant workers risk it all to enter Malaysia. Why? Channel News Asia India A day in the life of a New Delhi roadside barber Al Jazeera Why it is so difficult to walk in Indian cities BBC If All the World Were Paper: A History of Writing in Hindi Asian Review of Books 32% of American voters say illegal immigration should be Trumps top priority when he takes office A new Rasmussen Reports survey has revealed that 32 percent of American voters say illegal immigration should be the top priority of President-elect Donald Trump when he takes office in January. The poll, conducted right before the election from Oct. 30 to Nov. 3, asked 1,800 likely voters to identify the most important issue for the next president to address, choosing between abortion rights, illegal immigration, rising prices and protecting democracy. (Related: POLL: More voters trust Donald Trump over Kamala Harris on immigration policy and border security.) Thirty percent of voters identified illegal immigration as the most important issue they want the incoming administration to focus on, outpacing the fight against rising prices (27 percent), protecting democracy (24 percent) and far beyond abortion rights which only got 14 percent support. Based on political affiliations, nearly half of Republicans (49 percent) rated illegal immigration as the top issue, followed by rising prices at 30 percent. Democrats, on the other hand, prioritized protecting democracy (33 percent) and abortion rights (25 percent) above other issues. Meanwhile, independent voters were equally divided between prioritizing illegal immigration and rising prices at 31 percent each. Age demographics also show distinct shifts in priorities. Younger voters under 40 were more inclined to view rising prices as the most pressing issue, while those aged 65 and older placed illegal immigration as the most pressing issue for them. Trump reassures Americans that illegal immigration will be one of his priorities in January During his campaign rallies, Trump promised American voters that he would conduct "the largest domestic deportation operation in American history" if he were reelected as president. "Upon my inauguration, I will immediately terminate every Open Borders policy of the Biden administration. Following the Eisenhower Model, we will carry out the largest domestic deportation operation in American History," Trump vowed during a speech in Iowa. "I'll also invoke immediately the Alien Enemies Act to remove all known or suspected gang members." Trump also declared in one of his campaign speeches that he would address border security as one of the most important issues to the American people especially now that the U.S. immigration system has been at its worst under the administration of President Joe Biden. And now that he won the presidential election, Trump reassured the public that illegal immigration would be one of his first priorities upon taking office. In an NBC News interview on Nov. 7, Trump said he would make the border "strong and powerful." He also reiterated his promise to conduct the largest mass deportation of undocumented immigrants in American history despite its logistical and financial implications. "It's not a question of a price tag. It's not really, we have no choice," said the president-elect. "When people have [been] killed and murdered, when drug lords have destroyed countries and now they're going to go back to those countries because they're not staying here. There is no price tag." Trump has partially credited his messaging on immigration as one of the main reasons he won the race, saying: "They want to have borders, and they like people coming in, but they have to come in with love for the country. They have to come in legally." Visit OpenBorders.news for similar stories regarding Trump's plans to deal with illegal immigrants. Watch Trump telling his supporters that Kamala Harris is "killing the fabric" of the country. This video is from NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: POLL: Americans are becoming increasingly pessimistic about the migrant crisis. Border Patrol official: Over 19K illegal immigrants apprehended at the northern border during fiscal year 2024. North Dakota AG warns of looming CRISIS at the NORTHERN BORDER. Time for state governors and legislators to be carted-off in federal hand cuffs for aiding and abetting ILLEGAL immigration. Illegal immigration is costing American hospitals billions of dollars in unpaid medical bills. Sources include: YourNews.com Breitbart.com NBCNews.com Brighteon.com Almost all translation professionals defend their work against automatic tools by recalling notable errors, such as the now infamous promotion on the city of Santanders website. This site, translated mechanically without human oversight, famously turned references to the Botin Centre (named after the prominent local financial family) into the Loot Center, and mistranslated the historic quarter (casco viejo) as historic helmet. A recent study by Santiago Rodriguez-Rubio, a professor at Pablo de Olavide University (UPO) in Spain, highlights another issue with common machine translation tools: typos. These errors may be replicated, replaced, or ignored altogether, posing serious risks in critical fields like medical, financial, legal, or conflict-zone communications. Stephen Ibaraki, an international technology consultant and founder of AI For Good, illustrates the positive side of such technology: An Indian farmer, unable to speak all 22 official languages, can now communicate their needs using just a phone. In Africa, where AI is gaining ground, ordinary people can access medical help or enhance their financial inclusion. Metas latest smart glasses have simultaneous translation capabilities, a feature expected to become widely available. However, in complex scenarios, everyday applications reveal vulnerabilities. Fourteen years ago, the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) launched the Transtac project, aimed at developing a translation system for tactical use in 25 conflict scenarios, including checkpoint interactions, key information exchange, and medical assessments. While the system achieved 80% accuracy considered quite good it fell short for use in delicate situations where a mistake could lead to violence. Medical translations also demand heightened precision. Researchers from the universities of Michigan, New York, and Washington analyzed OpenAIs Whisper application and found hallucinations (mistakes or fabricated sentences presented as accurate) in 38% to 80% of audio-to-text cases. Whisper used for transcribing meetings and creating subtitles has also found application in medical centers for recording patient consultations. Such mistakes could have really grave consequences, particularly in hospital settings, Alondra Nelson, a Princeton University professor and former director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, told the Associated Press. Nobody wants a misdiagnosis. There should be a higher bar. In one transcript reviewed, Whisper invented a nonexistent drug called hyperactivated antibiotics. OpenAI acknowledged these findings, emphasizing that while the company is working on reducing hallucinations, the tool should not be used in high-risk domains. The same risks apply in legal and financial settings, where precise language is crucial. Rodriguez-Rubio cites an instance where an expression meaning excess of liabilities was mistakenly rendered in English as axes of liabilities. To test machine translation systems, Rodriguez-Rubio introduced 1,820 typographical errors into source texts previously used in specialized Spanish-English dictionary studies. The analysis revealed that repetition of the original typo is the most frequent phenomenon across two systems tested: Google Translate and DeepL. While Google Translate performed better, both systems exhibited deficiencies, such as replicating typos (e.g., the typo excusive was translated as escusivo), deleting errors, or transforming words (e.g., if vacancies was accidentally written as vancies, it was turned into vans). Rodriguez-Rubio, a UPO doctor and member of the Department of Philology and Translation, does not oppose automatic translators, quite the opposite. His research is meant to illuminate the capacity of these systems to manage typographical errors in source texts and provide a starting point for their improvement. AIs applications in language correction are undeniable. Technology has always been, and will continue to be, a fundamental pillar, though this does not preclude examining its potential drawbacks such as information noise, immediacy culture, blind trust, and reduced reflection, he notes. The human element, he emphasizes, remains crucial. For Rodriguez-Rubio, the spread of typographical errors is a symptom of a deeper problem. The typos that plague modern texts are an indicator of the underlying problem of the dysfunctions of the technological revolution, of the reconfiguration of the role of man and machine in work processes, of the culture of haste and immediacy, he says. While the studys limited scope focuses on how original errors affect the translation of isolated words or short phrases, it suggests ways to enhance AI systems. He proposes further exploration into synonymy (e.g., rejection versus refusal), antonymy (such as DeepLs translation of undestanding as without understanding), and paronymy (detecting near-homonyms like gastronomy versus gastrostomy). The success of machine translators hinges on their data sources the backbone of any AI application. If source errors are perpetuated or worsened, system accuracy falters. A strong data foundation is at the core of generative AI capabilities, cautions Baris Gultekin, AI lead at Snowflake, in the presentation of a study conducted in collaboration with MIT Technology Review Insights. Supporting this, research in Nature shows AI results degrade when trained on AI-generated data. Ilia Shumailov of the University of Oxford likens the process to repeatedly copying a photo. If you take a picture and you scan it, and then you print it, and you repeat this process over time, basically the noise overwhelms the whole process, he says, leading to what he terms model collapse. Google is aware of these challenges and is working to address them. A spokesperson stated: Translate learns patterns from millions of examples online. Unfortunately, these patterns sometimes yield incorrect translations. We value user feedback for quick corrections and rigorously train and test our systems to uphold quality across all our tools. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition REVOLVING DOOR: Between 2006 and 2019, 90% of FDA commissioners went on to work for Big Pharma If you think there is any substantial difference between the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the pharmaceutical companies it (supposedly) regulates, Between 2006 and 2019, nine out of 10 FDA commissioners went on from their U.S. taxpayer-funded positions straight to high-level executive positions at the nation's premiere drug companies. Mark McClellan, for instance, who was FDA commissioner from Nov. 14, 2002, through March 26, 2004, under President George W. Bush, went from "regulating" Johnson & Johnson while at the FDA to sitting as one of J&J's board members talk about a cushy revolving door! Scott Gottlieb, who was FDA commissioner from May 11, 2017, through April 5, 2019, under President Donald Trump, went from "regulating" Pfizer to just-like-McClellan becoming one of Pfizer's board members. Stephen Hahn took over after that, finishing out President Trump's first term as the FDA's commissioner. Then in early January after President Joe Biden was inaugurated, Hahn left the FDA to become chief medical officer at Flagship Pioneering, the venture capital firm behind Moderna. (Related: Did you know that Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell is already rebelling against Donald Trump and his aggressive America First agenda?) Media "journalists," other government officials also benefit from Big Pharma revolving door The FDA is not the only place from which Big Pharma's top dogs are created. James C. Smith, the CEO of Reuters in charge of informing the public about Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) "vaccines" was promoted, in a sense, from that position to becoming a board member at Pfizer. Tony Fauci, the infamous former director of the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), a federal division of the National Institute of Health (NIH), was one of the kingpins who funneled taxpayer cash from U.S. taxpayers into the government laboratories, both domestic and abroad, that performed illegal-in-the-U.S. gain-of-function research on bat coronaviruses and other designer bioweapons, including COVID. "Approximately 65% of the FDA's drug review budget comes directly from the pharmaceutical industry," warns the KanekoaTheGreat (@KanekoaTheGreat) X / Twitter account. "Americans are the sickest people on the planet, and our health agencies are blatantly compromised." The good news is that health freedom crusader and Big Pharma truth-teller Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is joining President Trump in spearheading a massive cleanup effort in Washington. "RFK Jr. and the MAHA (Make America Healthy Again) movement will benefit Republicans, Democrats, Independents, and all people on the planet," KanekoaTheGreat further says. The hope is that RFK Jr. and others like him on Team Trump will recapture public health and the medical industry and steer it out of the weeds of the Rockefeller propaganda efforts that took over medical education in America during the late 1800s and early 1900s. "The patriarch was 'Devil Bill' who was a snake oil salesman," tweeted the "JTTCOTM" (@JTTCOTM) X / Twitter account about William Avery "Devil Bill" Rockefeller Sr., who also went by the alias of Dr. William Levingston, the wicked brainchild behind modern so-called "medicine." "Create the problem; sell the solution," added another X / Twitter account about how everything Rockefeller did to transform health into big business for Big Pharma was a scam from the very beginning. "When the regulated become the unregulated, the media become the salesmen, and the medical professionals become the malevolent ... Corporations and government become indistinguishable." Re-read the above quote a second time and let it sink in that this is what has become of America in 2024, but also recognize that this is what RFK Jr. and seemingly Trump want to fix. This is what is at stake as America heads into 2025. The latest news about the corrupt pharmaceutical industry and the infested FDA that keeps it intact can be found at BigPharmaNews.com. Sources for this article include: X.com FDA.gov (1) FDA.gov (2) FDA.gov (3) NaturalNews.com Ready or not, an apocalyptic global war is on our doorstep On Thursday , the head of the Iranian Army warned that his nation will soon deliver a crushing blow to Israel (Article republished from MichaelTSnyder.Substack.com) In a Thursday meeting with family members of Major Sajjad Mansouri who was reportedly killed during the Oct. 26 Israeli strikes Commander-in-Chief of the Iranian Army Major General Seyyed Abdolrahim Mousavi promised a crushing blow to Israel. We will determine the time and manner of our response. There will be no hesitation when the time comes, and our reply will surely be crushing, he said according to Tehran-based news outlet Iran Front Page News, echoing threats issued by Irans supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei earlier this month when he said Tehran would issue a crushing response. Similarly, Deputy Commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Ali Fadavi on Thursday said, The entire world will bear witness as the complete downfall of the Zionist regime fulfills the triumph of righteousness over falsehood. Of course Israel has already promised that it will respond to any attack by hitting Iran even harder than it did last time. In fact, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is suggesting that Irans oil fields could be a target Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hinted that the IDF would hit Iranian oil fields should Tehran make good on its threat to launch another ballistic missile attack on Israel. Another attack on Israel would simply cripple Irans economy, Netanyahu said in an unusual English-language message he directed at the Iranian people. Can you imagine what that would do to the price of oil? Israels defense minister wants to go a step further. He is publicly suggesting that now is the time to wipe out Irans nuclear facilities Grossis comments came during a news conference Thursday and just three days after Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz on Monday said that Iran was more exposed than ever [for] strikes on its nuclear facilities. We have the opportunity to achieve our most important goal to thwart and eliminate the existential threat to the State of Israel, he added. If Israel goes after those nuclear facilities, there will be no turning back. Both nations would start pummeling one another until only one side is left standing. Meanwhile, the IDF is now bombing Syria on a daily basis Israeli attacks on Syria have become daily, and now the United States is ramping up its own attacks in the northeast of the country as well. On Thursday Israeli warplanes launched attacks on two residential buildings in the Damascus suburbs one in Mazzeh and the other in Qudsaya, which lies west of the capital. Regional reports said that many people were killed, and Syrian state SANA posted photos of bombed-out apartments. Israeli Army Radio in a rare acknowledgement appeared to confirm the Israeli attack while claiming the fresh attacks targeted the Syrian headquarters the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) group, which is fighting alongside Hamas in Gaza, and has held Israeli citizens captive since Oct.7, 2023. We really are on the brink of an uncontrollable regional war in the Middle East, and it should deeply alarm all of us that Turkey has decided to officially cut off all relations with Israel President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that Turkey has officially severed relations with Israel, according to reports in Turkish media. News outlet Medya Ege reported Erdogan to have said, We, as the State and Government of the Republic of Turkey, have cut off relations with Israel. We do not have any relationship with Israel at this point. Period. This is such a dangerous time. Donald Trump will not take office for more than two months, and nobody in the Middle East really cares what the lame duck Biden administration has to say at this point. I have a feeling that things will soon get really, really crazy in the region. In Ukraine, Russian forces just launched a very large missile attack against the capital city of Kyiv As world diplomacy is working overtime in this transitional period in America, the Russian Federation forces continue in their overwhelming campaign against Ukraine. After almost four months of saving missiles, this early morning (13), explosions rocked Kiev as Russia launched its first missile attack on the Ukrainian capital since August. Kiev citizens have been expecting a missile attack for a while now, worrying that it could deal a new blow to the hobbled energy system and cause blackouts during the winter. The Ukrainians are extremely concerned about what will happen once Trump gets into the White House, and it is being suggested that Ukraine could actually build hundreds of nuclear warheads for rudimentary bombs if U.S. financial support for the war is pulled Ukraine has enough plutonium to construct hundreds of nuclear warheads for rudimentary bombs akin to the first atomic weapons dropped on Japan by the US in 1945, a new report has revealed. A briefing paper prepared for Ukraines Defence Ministry said Kyiv could develop small dirty bombs within months if Donald Trump pulls US military aid. Despite giving up its nuclear arsenal in 1996, Kyiv is still in control of nine operational reactors and has significant expertise on how to build the weapons. The Ukrainians are losing the war, and I think that they have become so desperate that they would actually use such weapons. Of course the moment that the Ukrainians use a dirty bomb, the Russians will nuke them into oblivion. Speaking of the Russians, it is being reported that 12,000 North Korean troops are now assisting the Russian Army as it attempts to retake the Kursk region It was revealed last month that 12,000 North Korean troops had been sent to Ukraine to fight on behalf of Russia. Now, they are reported to have been deployed to Kursk as part of the Russian counter-offensive, while Pyongyang this week ratified a landmark new defence pact with Moscow. The North Koreans also just tested a nuclear missile that has enough range to reach the continental United States, and they continue to threaten to invade South Korea. We will want to watch North Korea very carefully in the months ahead. We will also want to watch the situation in Taiwan. Apparently, the Taiwanese government is interested in a massive $15 billion military weapons deal once Trumps term begins Taiwan has told the incoming Trump administration it is interested in securing a massive $15 billion military weapons deal with the United States, the Financial Times reported exclusively on Tuesday (November 12). Taiwanese defense has been brought to the forefront of the world stage amid heightened tensions with China, whose government denies Taiwans independence and wants to annex the island nation through war if necessary. Citing anonymous Taiwanese official sources, the FT said Taipeis inquiries about a defense deal include interest in procuring the Aegis destroyer, and possibly 60 F-35s, four Advanced Hawkeyes, 10 retired vessels and 400 Patriot missiles. Needless to say, the Chinese would be absolutely furious if such a deal actually happens. Our relations with China have been going downhill for quite a while now, and it appears that the incoming administration will have China hawks in quite a few key positions President-elect Donald Trump has apparently decided to appoint China hawks Marco Rubio and Mike Waltz to the positions of secretary of state and national security adviser respectively. In addition, Fox News host Pete Hegseth who once said China is building an army to defeat America to the post of defence secretary, while John Ratcliffe is set to be CIA chief. Ratcliffe has called China the top threat to American interests. This could offer the clearest indication yet of Trumps intent when it comes to China and Taiwan. While the presidential election winner has called out Taiwan for what he sees as stealing US jobs in the past, chances are he knows the US will have to come to the island democracys defence should Beijing invade or blockade. For a very long time, I have been relentlessly warning my readers about an apocalyptic war with Russia, an apocalyptic war with China, and an apocalyptic war in the Middle East. Two of those wars have already started, and I believe that it wont be too long before the third one erupts. Ultimately, historians will probably regard all of these wars as part of one gigantic global war. We are the World War III generation, and most people out there wont even realize what is happening until it is too late to do anything about it. Read more at: MichaelTSnyder.Substack.com European leaders conspire to SABOTAGE Trumps plan to end Ukraine war The Daily Telegraph reported on Monday, Nov. 11, that the leaders of the United Kingdom and France are "expected to plot a last-ditch attempt to thwart Trump's efforts to scale back" the United States' support for Ukraine. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron met that day in Paris to discuss how to keep the Ukraine conflict going. "We are very keen to make sure we can make the most of the time between now and Jan. 20, and not just put everything on hold until the next administration," a British government source told the Telegraph. Another source said outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden is expected to "turn on the taps" by giving Ukraine more financial aid before he leaves the White House. Poland is also involved in the scheme, courtesy of Prime Minister Donald Tusk who formerly headed the European Council from 2014 to 2019. He told Polish media outlet TVP that he will "intensively coordinate" with European countries to continue helping Kyiv fight Moscow. According to Tusk, Trump's plan to end the conflict with Ukraine represents a "fundamental threat to Poland and Polish interests" given that Warsaw shares a border with Ukraine and Moscow's close ally Belarus. "There is no doubt that this new political landscape is a serious challenge for everyone, especially in the context of a possible end to the [Russia-Ukraine] war as a result of an agreement between, for example, the president of Russia and the new president of the U.S.," the Polish leader said. "In the coming days, we will very intensively coordinate cooperation with countries that have a very similar view on the geopolitical and transatlantic situation and situation in Ukraine." End of Ukraine conflict means the end of funding for Kyiv But the Telegraph pointed out that Starmer's plan, and by extension Macron's and Tusk's, "could be seen by Trump as an attempt to undermine U.S. foreign policy." "Trump has pledged to wind down the [Russia-Ukraine] war by brokering a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia," InfoWars reported. While a specific plan has not yet been announced, possible stipulations in the deal include the establishment of a demilitarized buffer zone between Ukraine and Russia, Kyiv seceding Russian-occupied territory to Moscow and a 20-year guarantee that Ukraine won't join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. InfoWars added that since winning the Nov. 5 U.S. presidential elections, Trump has already spoken with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin about bringing peace to Europe. (Related: Trump says he'll end the Ukraine-Russia conflict before even taking office if he wins the election.) U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said on Sunday, Nov. 10, that the Biden administration will work to convince the president-elect to continue funding Kyiv when he takes office in January. "[Outgoing U.S.] President Biden will have the opportunity over the next 70 days to make the case to the [U.S.] Congress and to the incoming administration that the U.S. should not walk away from Ukraine," Sullivan told CBS News. "Walking away from Ukraine means more instability in Europe." But Donald Trump Jr., the president-elect's eldest son, begged to differ. He reiterated that "war hawks" have no place in his father's second administration, according to the Telegraph. The younger Trump also mocked Zelensky in an Instagram story Saturday, Nov. 9. Donald Jr.'s story featured a video of the Ukrainian leader with the elder Trump, with a long face. The younger Trump captioned the story with a jab at the eventual loss of Zelensky's "allowance" from Washington. Head over to UkraineWitness.com for more stories about the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Watch this video about Volodymyr Zelensky's remarks that Ukraine will continue fighting even without the United States. This video is from the TREASURE OF THE SUN channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Trump blames Biden, Zelensky for Ukraine conflict, warns of WWIII with Russia. Trump meets Zelensky, vows to negotiate peace deal "that's good for both sides." If elected, Trump promises to end Russia-Ukraine war BEFORE taking office. Trump: COMPROMISE with Russia could have helped Ukraine avoid war. Foreign Policy magazine: NATO is aware that Ukraine is LOSING the war. Sources include: InfoWars.com Telegraph.co.uk TVPWorld.com Brighteon.com Israeli journalist, intelligence officer confirms widespread torture of Palestinians at house of horrors HaKirya military compound Knesset correspondent Amichai Attali dropped a major bombshell this week about how Palestinians are being torturedat the HaKirya military compound in Tel Aviv where the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) is based. A reserve intelligence officer in the Israeli army, Attali described "masses" of Palestinians who were left "lying ... in handcuffs" while IDF soldiers blasted nonstop Israeli music at them as part of their torture regimen. Attali described what he observed at the HaKirya facility as "some kind of house of horrors, with screams coming from all directions." An Israeli journalist has delivered horrifying details of his service as an intel officer in a detention center for Palestinians abducted after Oct 7 His testimony appears to offer an unprecedented first person account of torture by Israeli forceshttps://t.co/pWPQR4Gw1Q pic.twitter.com/NbWSnCJyQN The Grayzone (@TheGrayzoneNews) November 8, 2024 (Related: According to the United Nations, Israel is committing "unprecedented" crimes against children in the Middle East.) Encountering the face of evil As a reservist who was there for much of the torture, Attali witnessed first-hand the horrors he describes in the above video. "I still haven't really processed it," he told podcast host Yair Sharkey about his "encounter with the face of evil." Trying in a dissociative way to recall the nightmare of it all, which for him lasted 227 days, Attali recalled "scenes" in which "a lot of people are concentrated" in the jail space. The interrogations there were supposed to be "sterile," but it is clear from Attali's account that cruel and unusual punishment is taking place in Israel against Palestinian captives. All across social media, video footage is circulating that shows Israeli soldiers filming blindfolded Palestinians as the prisoners are subjected to endless repetitions of a popular Israeli children's song called "Ayeka," by Shuli Rand. "You know, it's a song I like but they managed to make me tired of it," Attali joked with a laugh. After recalling the song in an upbeat way, Attali grew sober and introspective: "Like, you say to yourself, 'What is this place I'm in?' To tell you the truth, even later, during the interrogation phase ... even during the so-called 'sterile investigation,' your goal is to extract intelligence." It turns out that many Israeli people are really stressed out about the war, this according to new research from Kahn-Sagol-Maccabi (KSM). Dr. Tal Patalon, a palliative care physician who heads KSM, revealed on the one-year anniversary of the Oct. 7, 2023 attack, that many Israelis have been traumatized by what their government is doing in the Gaza Strip. Epidemiological research on data collected from 1.1 million people 21 years of age and older shows a 317 percent spike among Israelis in the use of short-term anti-anxiety medication like Xanax. "To put that figure in perspective, the study found a 28 percent increase in the likelihood of purchasing anti-anxiety medication while there were military conflicts, and during the 2006 Second Lebanon War, there was a 44 percent increase in that likelihood," reported Jewish Press News. Before October 7, anxiety treatment patterns in Israel were isolated and location-specific, but ever since that time the entire nation is suffering. Women are 81 percent more likely than men to start taking anxiety medication, the research further found. "The events of October 7 drastically changed reality for everyone patients and healthcare providers alike. The sharp increase in anxiety medication use highlights the urgent need for tailored mental health interventions in acute settings during times of conflict," Dr. Patalon said. In the comments, someone wrote that what is happening in Israel and Gaza right now is "a modern-day Holocaust." The latest news about all the fighting in the Middle East and where everything is headed can be found at WWIII.news. Sources for this article include: TheGrayZone.com NaturalNews.com JewishPress.com When you restart an Android phone, all truth media, alternative news, and UFC website icons get DELETED How convenient that icons for websites that publish positive information about health and safety, and support Donald J. Trump are now disappearing when an Android phone is restarted. The Natural News icon disappears. The Gateway Pundit icon is deleted. Zero Hedge shortcut disappears. UFC icon gets removed, probably because Dana White, UFC founder, is good friends with Trump. Other icons (shortcuts) remain on the phone, including Instagram, Gmail, Google, Amazon, YouTube and Microsoft Office. How convenient. Coincidence? We think not. Just days after Trump was reelected to the Presidency, the demonic Democrats are still pulling out all the stops to censor Americans' access to truth news, intelligent sources, and whistleblowers who reveal the insidious schemes and plots the communists in DC are still engaged in. Major manufacturers of Android phones include Samsung, which owns a third of the entire market share, Motorola, Sony, Huawei and several others. According to 9to5Google, Bill Gates is an android device user on a day-to-day basis, saying he prefers the more open nature of the Android ecosystem and that it has more flexible software interfacing abilities with the operating system. Maybe Bill Depopulation Gates is all in on the Android censorship tricks that make it frustrating for users who like tapping into truth news about HIM and other noxious globalists that lead the censorship brigade. Censorship of truth news at an all-time high in the United States under the Communist Biden Regime, with just 3 months left to their reign of terror The fake fact checkers may all be out of jobs come January 20th, 2025. Mainstream media presstitutes may find themselves getting served subpoenas for pushing propaganda and censorship of conservatives and Republicans so viciously, especially over the past 4 years. Thanks to Elon Musk, there was some reconciliation before the election, where conservatives and independents could actually post their opinions, and whistleblowers could reveal the scams of the Left, without suffering censorship (for the most part) or fearing the Feds showing up in full combat gear at their front door at 3 in the morning. The Censorship Industrial Complex figures if they make it difficult, frustrating and disheartening to find truth news online, then the conservatives and independents will just give up and give in to the machine, the fake news, the false narratives, and comply. Its forced and coerced submission by war of attrition. How many hoops are you willing to jump through to get to the truth? How much extra time, energy and concentration can you expend, after eating GMO food, drinking fluoridated water and getting bombarded with corporate advertisements all day? Can you navigate the labyrinth of mass media to find intelligent information that helps you advance your thinking, your business, your health and your wealth? Are the spike proteins invading your brain, controlling your emotions (yes, they can do that) and making you feel like youre going to have a heart attack every time you exercise or try to manage something stressful? Thats all part of the master commie plan. Be prepared. Dont let the censorship regime frustrate you to the point that you give up and give in. Thats their goal. Fight censorship. Blow the whistle on it all. We are winning the battles and the war. Everyone is a soldier on the front lines. Be very selective of the information you consume on a daily basis. Do your own research and dont use Google. Try the Brave search engine to get more truth news and real information. Bookmark Censored.news to your favorite websites for truth news about abortions, suicide and mental health horror stories that are being censored from mass media while you read this. Sources for this article include: NaturalNews.com TheGatewayPundit.com Science-backed health benefits of ancient remedy GINGER For thousands of years, ginger has captivated cultures across the globe with its powerful effects, unique taste and healing reputation. This knobby root with its pungent and peppery flavor is not just a kitchen staple it is an ancient remedy revered in traditional medicine. Now, science is beginning to confirm that ginger really offers a wealth of health benefits. Bioactive components Over 115 active elements have been identified in both fresh and dried ginger. Fresh ginger, for instance, is loaded with compounds called gingerols, which are known for their strong, spicy flavor and a range of potential health benefits. But here's the twist when ginger is dried, some of these gingerols convert into shogaols, which are even more potent and offer unique health benefits of their own. Antioxidant In terms of antioxidant levels, ginger ranks right up there with superfoods like berries and pomegranates. One fascinating aspect of ginger's antioxidant action is its potential to protect against the damaging effects of nitric oxide (NO). While NO has essential functions in the body, it can also contribute to cell damage, especially under stressful conditions. Studies show that ginger's bioactive compounds especially [6]-gingerol and [6]-shogaol can lower nitric oxide production in response to stress, helping to prevent DNA damage and reduce inflammation. These compounds also seem to calm down specific enzymes, such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), that fuel oxidative stress. Observed in lab studies, this action suggests that ginger may be beneficial for managing conditions where inflammation and oxidative stress are involved. Anti-inflammatory Studies suggest that ginger compounds may inhibit the production of molecules called leukotrienes and prostaglandins, which the body produces to promote inflammation. One study found that [8]-gingerol, a close relative of [6]-gingerol, could inhibit cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), an enzyme activated during inflammation that is responsible for making prostaglandins. This effect is significant as COX-2 inhibitors are commonly used to relieve pain, particularly in arthritis. In addition to prostaglandins, ginger compounds may also influence other powerful inflammatory molecules, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1-beta) both of which play a major role in chronic inflammation. Ginger even reduced specific inflammatory markers in immune cells called macrophages, which play a crucial role in triggering inflammation. Ginger may even provide relief for menstrual pain. In one clinical study, ginger capsules worked as effectively as common anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen and mefenamic acid, in women experiencing menstrual cramps. Anti-nausea agent Ginger is commonly recommended for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, with studies showing that it is as effective as vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) and dimenhydrinate with minimal to no adverse side effects. A systematic review confirmed that ginger is effective in reducing the severity of pregnancy-related nausea, without any negative impact on birth outcomes. Research comparing ginger to dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) found that ginger was superior for reducing motion sickness symptoms, though some follow-up studies reported conflicting results. Anticarcinogenic activities Key ginger constituents, including gingerols, have been shown to suppress the growth of several cancer types by mechanisms, such as causing cell cycle arrest, inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death), inhibiting pathways related to cancer progression and reducing cell proliferation. Ginger's efficacy varies among cancer types, with notable effectiveness in breast, colorectal, pancreatic and skin cancers. In rodent models, ginger compounds have reduced tumor incidence and proliferation notably in skin cancer where topical [6]-gingerols applications decreased tumor formation. Conversely, some studies report ginger's limited efficacy in specific cancer types, like bladder cancer, where it showed no significant protective effect and even increased tumor incidence in some models. Cardiovascular health support Research in animal models and some human studies indicated that ginger has several promising effects on cardiovascular health showing the potential to influence blood pressure and cholesterol, lowering inflammation and reducing oxidative stress. However, findings from human trials are not yet consistent and more research is needed to validate these benefits. Animal studies highlight ginger's ability to lower blood pressure and reduce lipid (fat) oxidation potentially offering protective effects against atherosclerosis. One clinical trial demonstrated that ginger consumption reduced low-density lipoprotein or LDL (bad cholesterol), triglycerides and total cholesterol while increasing high-density lipoprotein or HDL (good cholesterol) in humans. Animal studies report similar findings, where ginger reduced cholesterol and prevented the formation of atherosclerotic lesions notably in studies with mice and rabbits. Gingerols and shogaols in ginger have shown antiplatelet effects potentially reducing blood clot formation, which is crucial for heart disease prevention. Studies comparing ginger with aspirin found that ginger compounds, while less potent, might offer antiplatelet benefits with fewer side effects. Some research suggests that ginger may enhance fibrinolytic activity supporting the dissolution of blood clots, which is beneficial in coronary heart disease management. Despite these potential benefits, there are concerns regarding ginger's interaction with blood-thinning medications. Some studies warn that ginger could increase bleeding risk particularly with drugs like warfarin although this is not universally observed. More robust clinical trials are required to clarify these interactions and confirm safety. Asthma and respiratory health support Ginger has traditionally been used in respiratory treatments, with studies supporting its role in alleviating asthma symptoms by reducing airway inflammation and hypersensitivity. Certain ginger compounds appear to block calcium signaling in airway smooth muscle cells helping to relax the airways and inhibit spasms. Studies in mouse models of asthma reveal that ginger extract can suppress the immune response associated with asthma particularly by reducing eosinophil recruitment to the lungs, which plays a role in allergic inflammation. Antidiabetic effect Diabetic rats fed ginger exhibited better glucose tolerance. Active components like [6]-gingerol and [6]-shogaol have shown specific mechanisms for improving insulin action. [6]-gingerol enhances glucose uptake by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), while [6]-shogaol suppresses inflammatory signaling pathways, which are often elevated in insulin resistance. Neurological benefits Ginger is being investigated for potential benefits in neurodegenerative conditions like dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Some studies suggest ginger's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties could be protective, although most of them are in early stages. Visit Herbs.news for more on ginger and other medicinal spices. Watch this video to learn how ginger addresses lung congestion. This video is from the What is Happening channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Ginger found to help lower risk of hypertension and coronary heart disease. Thai black ginger found to delay arthritis progression and suppress inflammation. 7 Reasons to eat more ginger. Sources include: NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov Brighteon.com U.S. states are passing internet age verification laws as a cover to compel people into using digital IDs More and more nations are installing internet age verification systems for people who want to access adult content on the web under the guise of protecting children. However, experts are warning that online age verification systems may pave the way to the full implementation of digital IDs that can keep track of people's online habits. These laws that enforce online age verification for access to adult internet content are being considered as traps for the rolling out of complete content-based and personalized government control of internet access. Critics and concerned citizens are now questioning how these internet age verification requirements will work and where they will begin. "The current leading edge of attempts to legislate ID requirements for Internet access takes the form of laws requiring 'age verification' for access to 'adult' internet content," noted Edward Hasbrouck, writing for Papers Please. "Trying to use age verification for adult web content as the basis for internet ID requirements is a national and international trend. Many U.S. states have enacted or are considering laws like this." These states have different processes for verifying the ages of people trying to access adult content. But in general, users will have to supply websites with digital personal identifiers, which is why internet privacy and free speech activists are concerned. They argue that age verification is in essence a digital ID. Several states already requiring age verifications to access adult internet content So far, 19 states have already passed age verification laws: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah and Virginia. The latest and 19th state to pass this law was Kentucky back in early April. Most of these internet age verification laws are already in effect. Three states Florida, Georgia and Tennessee have set implementation dates in January. (Related: Texas bills to mandate age verification for visitors of adult websites.) Thirteen other states have introduced similar internet age verification bills that failed to pass in their respective legislatures Alaska, California, Delaware, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Mexico, South Dakota, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming. In some of these states, not enough legislators voted in favor of the bills and in others they were defeated by courts. In Arizona, a similar law was approved by the State Legislature but was then vetoed by Gov. Katie Hobbs. In four states Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio and Pennsylvania similar internet age verification bills are still working their way through the state legislatures. Only 13 states Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington have yet to introduce internet age verification laws. A challenge to Texas' law was taken up by the Supreme Court in the case of the Free Speech Coalition v. Paxton, lobbied against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton regarding the state's requirement that adult internet websites implement age verification systems to prevent access by minors. Oral arguments are scheduled for Jan. 15, 2025. The potential impact of the case remains unclear. Even if the Texas law is revoked, state legislators have indicated they are ready to pass another age verification law acceptable to courts. Follow Computing.news for more news about the internet age verification issue. Watch the video below about why internet age verification laws are another nail in the coffin of privacy. This video is from the unmasked channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: UN "pact for the future:" Digital IDs, vaccine passports, massive censorship. Americans who refuse to sign up for voluntary government-issued digital ID may be DENIED health care services. Indiana and Mississippi SUED over online age verification laws. Say goodbye to your privacy: Use of digital IDs in American states is spreading rapidly. Sources include: Expose-News.com PapersPlease.org IPVanish.com AVPAssociation.com SupremeCourt.gov Brighteon.com Washington state voters approve ballot initiative preventing state and local authorities from banning natural gas use Voters in Washington state have approved Initiative 2066 (I-2066), which preserves access to natural gas for homes and businesses across the state with minimal government intervention. This bans state and local governments from ever restricting access to natural gas. According to the office of the Secretary of State of Washington, 51.64 percent of the 3.4 million people who cast their ballots in the state voted in favor of the initiative. I-2066 also prevents the State Building Code Council from discouraging natural gas use in new construction. Additionally, I-2066 prohibits the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission from approving rate plans that would end natural gas services or make them prohibitively expensive. The measure was proposed as a response to the 2024 Washington Decarbonization Act, a law that regulates Puget Sound Energy (PSE), the largest natural gas provider in Washington. The act does not outright ban natural gas but requires PSE to submit plans for reducing emissions and transitioning to electricity. Starting Jan. 1, 2025, the Decarbonization Act will also prohibit PSE from offering rebates or incentives for gas appliances. Instead, it would educate customers on energy-efficient electric alternatives. (Related: Washington State Democrats move to ban natural gas in new residential and commercial buildings.) With its passage, I-2066 is expected to take effect in December. BIAW celebrates the passage of I-2066 Opponents of I-2066 argued that it threatens the climate goals of the state, which would result in higher costs for consumers. So-called "environmental advocates" warn that I-2066 would roll back key elements of the Decarbonization Act. I-2066 also faces criticism for potentially undermining fire safety codes and the authority of the local government to tailor energy policies for community needs. "Initiative Measure No. 2066 would prohibit PSE rate plans that restrict access to gas service and any planning requirements that render gas service cost-prohibitive," the office of Washington state Attorney General Bob Ferguson wrote in July. "It would allow PSE to offer rebates to purchase natural gas appliances or equipment and PSE would not be required to educate customers about the benefits of electrification or the availability of rebates for energy efficient appliances. It would also remove requirements that PSE target certain areas for electrification and coordinate with local utilities to further electrification." "The measure would also require gas utilities and local governments to provide natural gas to customers who demand it, even if other energy services or energy sources are available," the attorney general's office continued. "It would further prohibit local governments, air pollution control agencies, and the State Building Code Council from prohibiting, penalizing or discouraging the use of gas." However, the Building Industry Association of Washington (BIAW), the principal funder of the ballot initiative, argued that passing I-2066 gives Washingtonians the freedom to choose how their energy needs will be met. "Given the voting trends, it's clear that Initiative 2066 has been approved by Washington voters," Greg Lane, the executive vice president of BIAW, said on Nov. 7. "Their message couldn't be more clear: Washington families and businesses support keeping natural gas service and they demand to have energy choice." Get more updates about the energy crisis at NewEnergyReport.com. Watch this clip from Fox Business featuring former Energy Secretary Rick Perry discussing how natural gas bans are ways for Democrats "to control your life." This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Natural gas prices in Southern California SURGED 128% since December. Natural gas prices soar across Europe following Russias announcement that Nord Stream 1 will remain offline indefinitely. 16 U.S. states file lawsuit against Biden administration over temporary ban on approving new liquefied natural gas export permits. Natural gas prices expected to TRIPLE in Germany as Western Europe cuts off its own energy supply from Russia. Washington governor commits energy suicide with new plan to outlaw natural gas. Sources include: TheEpochTimes.com StopGreed.org Brighteon.com Natural News announces list of most important objectives RFK, Jr. must consider as head of HHS Clean medicine maverick RFK, Jr. has been nominated by Trump for the head of HHS, putting him in charge of the CDC, FDA, NIH and numerous other agencies ( see HHS organizational chart here ). RFK, Jr. has been very vocal about the dangers of toxic vaccine ingredients, toxic food ingredients, toxic heavy metals in pollutants and the possible criminality of Dr. Fauci during the COVID scamdemic. At Natural News, we believe the following objectives are critical for RFK Jr. to consider as head of HHS (see list below). Here's my recent broadcast covering the critical importance of RFK Jr's nomination to HHS: 1) End the 1986 legal immunity for vaccine manufacturers who sell dangerous, defective products The vaccine industry produces products that injure and kill people, yet they enjoy total immunity from legal liability as long as their vaccines are listed on the childhood immunization schedule. This has incentivized Big Pharma to push compromised FDA bureaucrats and CDC co-conspirators to add dozens of vaccines to that schedule, primarily as a legal cover for Big Pharma's faulty products. RFK, Jr. must end legal immunity for Big Pharma's faulty products and restore the rule of law when it comes to injured customers being able to sue for compensation when they are injured by faulty products. 2) End Direct-To-Consumer (DTC) advertising by Big Pharma In 1997, by executive decision, the FDA declared that drug companies could advertise their products directly to consumers via television ads and similar media outlets. This resulted in Big Pharma controlling a significant portion of the media by controlling its ad revenues. This, in turn, resulted in the corporate media doing the bidding of Pfizer during the COVID plandemic rollout, pushing false narratives and deliberate disinformation that falsely claimed COVID vaccines were safe and effective. RFK, Jr. can reverse DTC advertising via executive decision at HHS. It does not require approval from Congress. By doing so, he would instantly slash at least one-third of corporate media revenues while putting in place a financial firewall between Big Pharma and Big Media. This must be done, as it would end the decades of media-pharma collusion that has harmed or killed many millions of Americans. 3) Split the FDA into two divisions, FOOD and DRUGS The FDA is an anti-health, pro-pharma agency that answers to Big Pharma while attacking healing foods, supplements and herbal remedies in order to eliminate Big Pharma's competition. The FDA must be split up, broken into at least two agencies in order to separate drugs from foods and supplements. Furthermore, the FDA's war against nutrition, herbs, remedies, supplements and homeopathy must be ended. The FDA's bans on Traditional Chinese Medicine ingredients such as ma huang (which contains natural ephedra) must be reversed, as ma huang is very, very effective at combating pandemics when used in TCM formulas. For decades, the FDA has functioned as the enemy of nutrition in America, pimping for the processed food and drug industries, while attacking and suppressing the small businesses that can actually contribute to America's improved health. 4) Restore freedom of speech about nutrition, herbs and natural medicine for manufacturers and retailers who offer such products It is currently illegal in America to tell the truth about the health benefits of nutritional products that you market or sell. Even though everyone knows that vitamin C is a treatment and cure for scurvy -- a disease entirely caused by vitamin C deficiency -- any manufacturer or retailer of vitamin C is instantly accused by the FDA of selling an "unapproved drug" if they claim vitamin C treats scurvy. This is how the FDA conducts terror campaigns against nutritional supplement companies offering all sorts of natural products that quite literally treat, prevent and cure various diseases. For example, tart cherry extract cures gout. Vitamin D supplements cure rickets. Certain B vitamins cure beriberi. The list goes on. Many mineral and vitamin deficiencies are labeled "diseases," and the FDA declares that only drug companies can "treat" those diseases with patented, expensive pharmaceuticals. This is a protection racket between the FDA and Big Pharma -- a true racketeering criminal cabal -- designed to keep people sick and ignorant while profiting from chronic degenerative disease. This racket must be ended, and truthful, evidence-backed free speech must be restored to companies offering nutritional supplements, herbs, natural remedies, homeopathy and similar solutions for public health. By restoring free speech, RFK Jr. can help save many billions of dollars in annual health care costs across America as the American people have greater access to the nutrients and supplements that help prevent chronic degenerative disease. 5) Lifetime ban on all HHS employees from working in the industries they regulate Currently, about 90% of those who head up HHS or FDA end up working for Big Pharma, the very industry they claim to be regulating. This "revolving door" racket results in so-called "regulatory capture" of HHS, FDA and CDC by the very industry these agencies are supposed to be holding in check. What leaders of the agencies quickly learn is that if they issue decisions that financially favor Big Pharma, they will be offered lucrative positions in the pharmaceutical or biotech industries after they leave government. In essence, these people are "bribed" with huge payoffs from Big Pharma, and they greedily cash in while sacrificing integrity and the health of the American people. This revolving door must end. Anyone who works in any regulatory agency, including EPA and USDA, must face a lifetime ban from working within the industries they regulate. This will end a large part of the corruption. Release documents on Fauci, expose the fraudulent science, reveal the secret bioweapons laboratories There are a thousand other things that RFK, Jr. can do as head of HHS that would also be truly revolutionary. The list shown above just scratches the surface. Some additional things he could consider include: Releasing HHS documents on Fauci, COVID and COVID vaccine decisions, including internal memos and emails. (Cue the criminal prosecutions...) Reveal the existence of secret bioweapons laboratories in Ukraine and various African nations. Expose America's criminal activities in the development of biological weapons, including agricultural bioweapons. Expose the fraudulent science used by FDA to "approve" pharmaceuticals, based entirely on Big Pharma's own rigged medical experiments. Release documents exposing the history of SV40 contamination of polio vaccines, and how the cancer wave in America was largely caused by the vaccine industry. Fire the most corrupt FDA officials across the agencies, including the rogue FDA terrorists who run surprise "inspections" of food and supplement manufacturers with the goal is shutting them down and protecting Big Pharma. Partner with Green Med Info (Sayer Ji) to incorporate his enormous database of phytonutrients and natural protocols into the government's knowledge base of how to halt disease and improve public health. Use my upcoming "Neo 2025" AI engine, which is the only AI LLM trained on billions of tokens of text about natural medicine, remedies, nutrition, off-grid medicine, healing foods and more. You can see details on the earlier versions of this engine at Brighteon.AI - and we have a much more powerful engine coming in 2025. Before all this can happen, of course, RFK Jr. must be confirmed as head of HHS. Here at Natural News, although we don't agree with RFK Jr. on every single thing he espouses, we strongly approve of his nomination for HHS, and we encourage our readers to call your U.S. Senators and urge RFK's confirmation as head of HHS. Call the Capitol Hill switchboard at 202-224-3121 and ask for your senators, one at a time, and register your support with RFK Jr. with each of your senators. RFK Jr's confirmation as head of HHS would be, in essence, a coup against Big Pharma. That's why they are panicked. That's why CNN is declaring war against RFK and trying to stop him at all costs. This is also exactly why we should support him. I once called RFK Jr. an "American hero" for his courage and determination in exposing Dr. Fauci's criminal fraud. And I still consider RFK Jr. to be an American hero. He has earned our support. ### Follow my podcasts, interviews, articles and social media posts on: Twitter: https://twitter.com/HealthRanger Brighteon.social: Brighteon.social/@HealthRanger Brighteon.io: Brighteon.io/healthranger Telegram: t.me/RealHealthRanger Brighteon.com: Brighteon.com/channels/HRreport Rumble: Rumble.com/c/HealthRangerReport Substack: HealthRanger.substack.com Banned.video: Banned.video/channel/mike-adams Truth Social: https://truthsocial.com/@healthranger Bastyon: https://bastyon.com/healthranger Gettr: GETTR.com/user/healthranger BitChute: Bitchute.com/channel/9EB8glubb0Ns/ Clouthub: app.clouthub.com/#/users/u/naturalnews/posts Join the free NaturalNews.com email newsletter to stay alerted about breaking news each day. Download my current audio books -- including Ghost World, Survival Nutrition, The Global Reset Survival Guide and The Contagious Mind -- at: https://Audiobooks.NaturalNews.com/ Download my new audio book, "Resilient Prepping" at ResilientPrepping.com - it teaches you how to survive the total collapse of civilization and the loss of both the power grid and combustion engines. CRY SESSION: Biden State Department holds therapy session after Trumps election win The Department of State (DOS) under the administration of outgoing President Joe Biden has organized a therapy session for employees who were shocked by President-elect Donald Trump's second election victory. Four sources with knowledge of the meeting disclosed the event to the Washington Free Beacon, adding that it pushed through on Nov. 8. The Employee Consultation Services office under the DOS's Bureau of Medical Services (BMS) hosted the session. The one-hour session centered on "managing stress during change" and encouraged employees to discuss their feelings about the results of the presidential election. "Change is a constant in our lives, but it can often bring about stress and uncertainty," the email said. "Join us for an insightful webinar where we delve into effective stress management techniques to help you navigate these challenging times. This session will provide tips and practical strategies for managing stress and maintaining your well-being." The Nov. 8 session was led by a licensed clinical provider. Also on Nov. 8, the DOS's Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs (NEA) held a group discussion separate from that of the BMS. Three sources briefed on the matter confirmed this to the Free Beacon, adding that Assistant Secretary for Near Eastern Affairs Barbara Leaf and Acting Under Secretary for Political Affairs John Bass led the discussion. Bass notably took over the position vacated by his predecessor Victoria Nuland, who stepped down in March. (Related: Pro-Ukraine war hawk Victoria Nuland QUITS as Russia gains ground and NATO's military efforts falter.) One of the three sources described the NEA's meeting as a "cry session" over Trump's victory. Staffers at the bureau, which oversees American diplomacy in the Middle East, purportedly discussed the difficulty of Trump's victory. Leaf and Bass, meanwhile, urged employees to share their feelings in private settings. Biden-Harris State Department now WOKE and WEAK One U.S. official with knowledge of the meetings lamented how the DOS under Biden and outgoing Vice President Kamala Harris has become woke and weak. They noted that there is "lots to unf**k" at the department after four years under the Democrats. "For four years, within the rank and file, there has been an overemphasis on people's feelings often with a college campus-like fervor rather than the work of advancing America's interests," they told the Free Beacon. "This meeting was hopefully the last gasp of that." But according to a second source briefed on the private discussions, the therapy sessions won't end even if Trump is inaugurated as president in January next year. They suggested that "the State Department is filled with partisan Democrats who are unwilling or unable to faithfully serve in the Trump administration." Under the leadership of outgoing Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the DOS has led the Democratic administration's drive to implement diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. He established the department's Office of Diversity and Inclusion in February 2021, shortly after a White House edict instructing the federal government to ramp up DEI initiatives. In September, the media agency reported that the DOS's top DEI officials receive almost $200,000 in salaries all on the taxpayer dime. This was not the first time the State Department held therapy sessions over trivial matters. Last May, it organized several sessions following a system-wide email glitch that assigned random and often incorrect pronouns to employees. At the time, the Free Beacon reported that the department had urged "any employee who feels hurt or upset as a result of this unfortunate mistake" to use its mental health services. The DOS did not respond to a request for comment on the matter sent by the Free Beacon. Visit Wokies.news for more stories like this. Watch this clip about U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) being tapped to lead the State Department under the second Trump administration. This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Leaders around the world welcome news of Trump's re-election. Will these deranged celebrities who promised to end their lives or flee the country if Trump wins actually follow through? Liberals panicked that controversial government censorship agency could be on the chopping block if Trump wins the election. ANALYSIS: Trump is going to win BIG, and then the real fireworks begin America won't survive as we know it for even ONE YEAR. Sources include: FreeBeacon.com Brighteon.com By Takuya Karube, KYODO NEWS - Nov 17, 2024 - 11:52 | Others, All, World Chinese President Xi Jinping told U.S. President Joe Biden on Saturday that he is ready to work with the incoming administration set to begin in January under Donald Trump but only if it does not treat China as an enemy. In their final meeting in Peru, Xi stressed that for the bilateral relationship to move forward, in spite of its ups and downs in recent years, the two countries should treat each other as partners and friends. "But if we take each other as a rival or adversary, pursue vicious competition, and seek to hurt each other, we would roil the relationship or even set it back," Xi told Biden in his opening remarks, seemingly intended for Trump, at a hotel in Lima. Noting that China's goal of seeking a stable and healthy relationship with the United States remains intact, Xi said he is "ready to work with the new U.S. administration to maintain communication, expand cooperation and manage differences." Without naming Trump, he cautioned that the two countries should "make the wise choice" and "keep exploring the right way." The meeting came with Biden preparing to hand over the reins of power to the former president, who is set to return to the White House after a decisive win in the Nov. 5 presidential election. While Beijing and other capitals brace for the possibility of a more confrontational approach to foreign affairs by Washington during Trump's second term, Xi and Biden agreed that the relationship of the world's two largest economies is highly consequential and matters to the whole world. Biden said maintaining lines of communication between Washington and Beijing is needed, despite differences over a host of issues, to prevent conflict. "I'm very proud of the progress we both made together," Biden said, referring to some of the achievements made with Xi over the last nearly four years, such as reopening military-to-military communication at multiple levels. "We haven't always agreed, but our conversations have always been candid and always been frank," he said. The first in-person meeting between Biden and Xi in a year took place on the sidelines of this year's summit of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum. Trump has promised to take a firmer stand against China, including imposing 60 percent tariffs on goods from the Asian power, the world's second-largest economy after the United States. In their third face-to-face talks since Biden took office in 2021, they took stock of efforts during his tenure to "responsibly manage" the intense competition between the two countries. They also agreed on the need to maintain human control and not rely on artificial intelligence in deciding on the use of nuclear weapons, according to the White House. Biden's national security adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters it was the first time that the United States and China had made such a statement. "It's an important statement about the intersection of artificial intelligence and nuclear doctrine," Sullivan said. During their previous talks near San Francisco, also held in conjunction with an APEC summit, the presidents agreed to reopen military-to-military lines of communication at several levels to prevent miscalculation from veering into confrontation or conflict. They also agreed to advance cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including controlling risks associated with artificial intelligence and curbing the flow of illicit fentanyl. In line with previous meetings between representatives of the two countries, Biden reiterated concern over outstanding issues, such as China's increased military activities around Taiwan and its assertiveness in the South China Sea, according to the White House. Sullivan said they had the chance "to go back and forth" on issues related to Taiwan, which China views as a renegade province. China's official news agency Xinhua quoted Xi as telling Biden that the United States should make clear its opposition to Taiwan independence and support Beijing's "peaceful reunification" process. The White House said Biden also expressed "deep concern" over China's support for Russia's defense industrial base, which is believed to have revitalized its military to continue fighting against Ukraine. The issue of some 10,000 North Korean troops deployed to Russia near the border with Ukraine was on the agenda as well, as Beijing has close ties with both Pyongyang and Moscow. The last meeting between Biden and Xi lasted about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Related coverage: Japan's Ishiba, China's Xi agree to forge "mutually beneficial" ties Bidens niceness to President-elect Trump TRIGGERS LEFTISTS Outgoing President Joe Biden's cordiality toward President-elect Donald Trump has seemingly triggered leftists with Trump Derangement Syndrome (TDS). The former 45th and incoming 47th president visited the White House on Wednesday, Nov 13, and met with his Democratic predecessor. Trump thanked the outgoing 46th chief executive for facilitating a smooth transition, with Biden returning the favor. A report by NBC News elaborated on the two former rivals. Trump and Biden appeared briefly for pictures, but did not respond to questions shouted by members of the media present. The two then met privately for a "substantive" sit-down that lasted more than 90 minutes. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Biden and Trump discussed the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip and the Israeli hostages abducted by Hamas during its Oct. 7 Operation Al-Aqsa Flood attack. They also discussed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, something Trump promised to end if reelected. Jean-Pierre also said the two discussed government funding, emergency disaster assistance and how to ensure an "orderly" and "peaceful" transfer of power come Jan. 20. (Related: Leaders around the world welcome news of Trump's re-election.) First Lady Jill Biden also extended her felicitations to Trump, giving the president-elect a handwritten letter of congratulations for his wife Melania. According to the outgoing first lady's office, her team has expressed readiness to assist with the transition. The outgoing Democratic president wrote in a post on X Wednesday: "Today, I met with President-elect Trump in the Oval Office. I look forward to leading a smooth transition and peaceful transfer of power. As I told the President-elect, my team is committed to doing everything we can to ensure the incoming administration has what they need." "Trump visited the White House and Biden was actually nice to him, something rabid TDS carriers couldn't handle," wrote Steve Watson of Modernity News. "Biden was cordial; surprising, given the fact that he called Trump a threat to democracy for four years." Biden gets even with Kamala by being kind to Trump "Perhaps after the coup and also being rejected by [outgoing Vice President] Kamala Harris' disastrous campaign, he just gives zero f***s. Leftists just couldn't bear it," Watson continued, citing several examples from X. Author Tara Dublin began the condemnation, writing: "Sir, you welcomed a fascist convicted felon into the White House who does not deserve one iota of your kindness. Trump conspired with [Russian President] Vladimir Putin and [X owner] Elon Musk to steal the election. We should be fighting fascism instead of enabling it." Drummer Bobby Duthu was also vocal with his rebuke of the outgoing president. He wrote: "I appreciate your lifetime of service, and in particular, your selfless and patriotic sacrifice to allow Harris to run against Trump. "This son-of-a-b***h has vowed to act as a dictator, up to and including taking a sledge hammer to the values of our nation, and threatening his version of Hitler's infamous 'night of the long-knives' and all you can come up with is, 'My team is committed to doing everything we can to ensure the incoming administration has what they need.' "This is unacceptable behavior and conduct unbecoming a president of the United States, and I couldn't be more disappointed. Accordingly, it pains me to say shame on you." But journalist Michael Tracey pointed out that the cordial Wednesday meeting between Trump and Biden contrasted with the Democrats' hateful rhetoric against the president-elect. "After screaming fascism and death to democracy, the [outgoing] Democratic administration politely facilitates the transition to power of the person they just got done saying is a cataclysmic tyrant," he wrote on X. Check out Trump.news for more stories about the president-elect. Watch this Fox News report about President-elect Donald Trump lauding the "very gracious" treatment he received from outgoing President Joe Biden during the White House visit. This video is from the TrendingNews channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: OPINION: Trump did not win this election. Harris was defeated by a Gaza-inspired boycott. Political analysts: Biden's withdrawal from presidential race has left the Democrats IN TURMOIL. Unhinged liberal women cry on social media over Trump's victory and claim they've lost all their rights. When Trump takes office on January 20, the reckoning must begin for the real insurrection by the deep state against President Trump. Sources include: Modernity.news NBCNews.com Brighteon.com Israel conducted 106 airstrikes on Lebanon in 24 hours, killing 17 and displacing thousands amid escalating conflict On Nov. 12, the Government Emergency Committee of Lebanon reported that Israeli airstrikes on the nation have intensified, with at least 106 attacks launched within 24 hours . These attacks have killed at least 17 people and injured another 21. The bombardment mostly struck residential areas south of Beirut, including the suburbs of Ghobeiry, Hadath, Haret Hreik and Laylaki. The Israeli military claimed these attacks only targeted Hezbollah positions, and that it had ordered Lebanese civilians to evacuate and gave them enough time to flee before its planes struck. Further airstrikes hit cities like Nabatieh and Tyre to the south, the Beqaa Valley in the east and villages in Lebanon's north, far from Hezbollah-controlled regions of Lebanon. Lebanon's Ministry of Public Health confirmed 17 deaths and 21 injuries as a result of the airstrikes, as well as additional Israeli attacks in villages like Baalchmay, Joun and Rumin. Since the start of the conflict in October 2023, Israeli attacks have killed over 3,287 people, injured more than 14,000 and displaced more than 1.2 million Lebanese. Israel not interested in ceasefire in Lebanon This escalation follows a statement from Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, who vowed that Israel would continue its offensive against Hezbollah without a ceasefire. The newly appointed defense minister emphasized that Israel's objectives included disarming Hezbollah and pushing the group from being able to operate anywhere south of the Litani River to ensure the security of northern Israel. Despite his hardline stance, American special envoy Amos Hochstein expressed hope for a potential ceasefire, suggesting that there was "a shot" at reaching one soon. (Related: REPORT: Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon kill six medics, frustrating potential ceasefire talks.) However, Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri rejected any ceasefire or settlement that would benefit Israel at Lebanon's expense. He stated, "Any solution that achieves Israels interests at the expense of Lebanon's sovereignty is rejected." Hezbollah, despite the Israeli bombardment, has continued to launch drone and missile attacks against northern Israel. The group has claimed responsibility for causing heavy casualties to Israeli forces, with reports indicating that over 100 Israeli soldiers have been killed and more than 1,000 injured since the beginning of Israels ground operations in southern Lebanon. Israeli attacks on Lebanon creating humanitarian and refugee crisis The escalating conflict has created a severe humanitarian crisis in Lebanon. Over 1.2 million people have been displaced, and many have sought refuge in Syria, further exacerbating the already dire conditions for Syrian refugees in Lebanon. As of mid-November, more than 283,000 people had crossed into Syria, with 70 percent being Syrian refugees who had fled to Lebanon sometime in the past 10 years following the outbreak of the Syrian Civil War in 2011. The influx of refugees and repatriates into Syria is complicated by the ongoing humanitarian crisis there. Syrian refugees are once again on the move, many returning to areas previously displaced from, unsure of the state of their homes. Some are seeking shelter with family or friends, while others are finding temporary housing in overcrowded shelters in Syria. The war's impact on Lebanon's healthcare system has also been devastating. More than 100 of the country's 207 primary healthcare centers in conflict zones have closed due to damage from the airstrikes. The World Health Organization and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees said they are working to provide crucial medical aid and ambulances to assist those in need, but challenges including Israel's penchant for targeting aid workers are significant. Watch this gruesome footage showing the aftermath of an Israeli airstrike on a church in the Beqaa Valley. This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: U.S. ambassador to Lebanon calls for internal uprising in Lebanon to help Israel destroy Hezbollah: Allies need to do their part, she insists. Hezbollah has already KILLED over 70 Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon. WAR CRIME: Israeli bombings devastate UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Tyre, Lebanon. Sources include: TheCradle.co UNHCR.org Brighteon.com Pete Hegseth, Trumps defense secretary pick, covered in pro-war tattoos, including Matthew 10:34 that promises the SWORD, not peace President-elect Donald Trump's incoming defense secretary has questionable artwork inked all over his body that suggests he wants more death, destruction and war. Pete Hegseth, 44, is a two-time Bronze Star recipient and war veteran who holds degrees from both Princeton University and Harvard University. His father warned him as a child not to get tattooed, but Hegseth rebelled in his 30s and now dons more than a dozen tattoos on his right arm and chest. Hegseth's most well-known tattoo is a massive Jerusalem Cross on his chest. The Jerusalem Cross is comprised of one large plus-shaped cross markings surrounded by four smaller plus-shaped cross markings in each of the four quadrants. Some people are taking issue with Hegseth's Jerusalem Cross because its origin dates back to the Crusades, and more recently to Christian nationalist groups. Hegseth's Jerusalem Cross took America by surprise back in 2021 when he was one of several National Guard members who was ordered to stand down from Joe Biden's inauguration, supposedly because of the tattoo. "I was deemed an extremist because of a tattoo by my National Guard unit in Washington, D.C., and my orders were revoked to guard the Biden inauguration," Hegseth said in a podcast interview. "My commander called me a day before tepidly and was like, 'Major, you can just stand down. We don't need you' we're good.' I'm like, 'What do you mean, everybody's there?' He said, like, 'no, no, no ... he couldn't tell me." (Related: Did you know that Hegseth aggressively supported the U.S. invasion of Iraq under President George W. Bush back in 2003?) Abusing scripture to push death On his bicep, Hegseth got the words "Deus Vult" carved into his skin. This is Latin for "God will it," which is also the closing sentence in his book, America Crusade. Next to Deus Vult on Hegseth's arm are various firearms and an American flag with a rifle as one of its stripes. Much like the Jerusalem Cross, Deus Vult is also linked to the First Crusade in the early 1000s when so-called Christian invaders reportedly bellowed it out as their battle cry. Perhaps the most controversial of Hegseth's tattoos is a reference to the New Testament verse of Matthew 10:34, which reads: "Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword." These words of Jesus Christ are a reference to the gospel message and the division it brings between the true children of God and the jealous impostors. It has nothing to do with bringing an actual sword weapon because, in this context, the Word of God itself is the sword that cuts to the heart, dividing the sheep from the goats. The way Hegseth seems to be using this verse is out of context to push a message of apparent violence against the enemies of Hegseth and his team, who seem to believe themselves to be the chosen recipients of the American promised land. Hegseth told Big Lead that he got the Matthew 10:34 tattoo emblazoned onto his body while on vacation with his family. Hegseth's body also has various other images on it including a chopped-up timber rattlesnake from the Gadsden flag along with the words "Join or Die;" Hebrew lettering that includes a reference to "Yahweh;" and the Greek letters chi and rho, which are the first two letters of the word "Christ" in Greek. Hegseth also got a tattoo of the patch from his army regiment, the 187th Infantry. That regiment dates back to World War II when it served as a glider unit. The latest news about Trump and his cabinet can be found at Trump.news. Sources for this article include: NYPost.com NaturalNews.com RFK Jr. warns: Tony Fauci and Bill Gates will be ARRESTED under second Trump administration Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has recently been named as the next secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has promised that Dr. Anthony Fauci and Bill Gates will be arrested under the second Trump administration. According to a report by Disswire, the former independent presidential candidate has vowed to use "all the power necessary" bestowed upon him as HHS secretary to jail Gates and Fauci. Big Pharma executives who worked with the mainstream media to censor the truth behind the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) mRNA injections would likewise be thrown behind bars. Trump insiders have disclosed that the incoming new administration is already preparing to send the Big Pharma cartel to jail for destroying the lives of millions of Americans. Included in the bunch is Gates, who pumped billions of dollars into the production of these lethal vaccines. The Microsoft co-founder and technocrat, who notably donated $50 million to a political action committee supporting outgoing Vice President Kamala Harris, "now has nowhere left to run." (Related: Bill Gates donates $50M to Kamala Harris-linked PAC.) "[Gates] has been indicted in the Netherlands for lying to the public about the COVID-19 vaccine. And he's going to have to go to trial," Kennedy said last month. "[Do] you think that he wants to go to trial here in the United States of America? [Do] you think maybe, that's one of the reasons he chose to give $50 million to Harris? True enough, a magistrate in the Netherlands ordered Gates to stand trial after vaccine-damaged individuals took him to court. The Microsoft founder argued that the judge had no jurisdiction over him. Despite this, the magistrate issued a ruling ordering Gates to appear before the court. Fauci also set to spend some time in jail Fauci, who stepped down from public service in 2022, is also trying to get away with his depraved crimes against humanity. His reign of terror dates back to the early 1980s, when he forced people infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) to take his deadly drug azidothymidine. This resulted in the deaths of more than 300,000 people. Given this, Kennedy vowed to fire the entire National Institutes of Health (NIH) team and put the 83-year-old Fauci behind bars. The former independent presidential candidate said in a recent speech that Trump would "make America healthy again" and would be a president "who is going to protect us against totalitarianism." Kennedy also promised to stop the NIH from studying infectious diseases, instead shifting its focus to studying chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity and cancer. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), which is under the NIH, focused on infectious diseases. Incidentally, Fauci served as the director of NIAID from 1984 until 2022. "I'm going to say to NIH scientists, 'God bless you all. Thank you for public service. We're going to give infectious disease a break for about eight years,'" Kennedy remarked. Head over to MedicalTyranny.com for similar stories. Watch this commentary by Lou Valentino about Dr. Anthony Fauci panicking with the news of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. being picked as health secretary. This video is from the Sanivan channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: PEOPLE become THE PLAGUE: Bill Gates developing needle-less vaccine that spreads like a virus to the unvaccinated. House subcommittee: Scientists admit to covering for Fauci's role in COVID-19 lab leak due to political pressure. IT NEVER ENDS: Anthony Fauci says booster dose of coronavirus vaccine will be necessary in the future. RFK Jr. says Bill Gates, Fauci will both be arrested under Trump. Fauci admits there is no science behind a continued lockdown. Sources include: SHTFPlan.com Disswire.com Brighteon.com RIOTING breaks out at Audi plant in Germany following factory closure announcement German auto giant Audi is making headlines after company employees started rioting at a manufacturing plant in Brussels that is slated for closure in the coming days. Police had to be called to contain the situation after about 150 people, some of them masked, stormed a negotiation room where discussions were being had about a severance plan for union workers at the plant, which will soon be nonoperational. To keep the negotiation's participants from leaving the premises, protesters began setting off fireworks and causing other disruption. One union member was mildly injured during the melee. (Related: Did you know that this past July, a new law came into effect in Europe that requires all new cars to automatically reduce engine power the moment a driver starts to speed?) German economy collapsing after Nord Stream sabotage incident A subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group, Audi announced earlier this year that the factory in question will be shuttered as of March 2025. The company was reportedly unable to find new investors, and Volkswagen was unable to come up with a repurposing plan for the site. As a result, upwards of 3,000 employees and several hundred subcontractors face losing their jobs once the doors close. In support of all these people, around 5,000 locals in Brussels took to the streets back in September to protest. "We are literally being eaten up and I do not know if we are in a position to do anything about it," an Audi employee told Euronews when this protest happened. The reason why Audi is having to shutter the plant in the first place is because of a combination of factors that include high energy prices caused by the destruction of the Nord Stream pipeline. That sabotage incident cut Germany off at the knees, which means the entirety of Europe is at risk since Germany is the continent's largest economy. Another factor in Audi's troubles is the growth of Chinese electric vehicle (EV) competition. China produces EVs that are cheaper, both in price and in quality, than the superior vehicles produced by the likes of Audi. In October, the Volkswagen Group announced that it is closing at least three other plants in Germany while downsizing all of its remaining factories. Thousands more jobs could be lost and entire departments lost or moved abroad. "It's ONLY because Germany's ally, the U.S., destroyed Germany's access to the cheap energy that was the lifeblood of its economy," one commenter wrote about Audi's woes. "All is not well in the EU," wrote another. "It looks terminal." "Europe is toast without Russian energy," added someone else. "This is just a fact!" The rise of the Global South, i.e., BRICS, appears more imminent than ever with this latest development at Audi. This canary in the coal mine incident only cements the fact that the West is in the throes of a collapse, even if many are blinded with optimism about the new incoming administration. "All the while, Germany sends warships to China's shores to intimidate and militarily threaten the Chinese even though China was the sole source of growth for the German economy in the last two decades," wrote another. Someone else suggested that these protesters should do what they are doing when politicians are in session for maximum effect. "Germany spends way too much money, resources, and manpower on foreign entanglements," wrote another. "Germany believes in the myths of open borders, such as how poorly educated immigrants from sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa, the Middle East, and elsewhere would provide cheap and good labor for Germany's economy." As the world economy collapses in seemingly slow motion, companies like Audi are going to continue trimming their ranks to stay afloat. Learn more at Collapse.news. Sources for this article include: Yahoo.com NaturalNews.com Moscow accuses U.S. and U.K. of plotting to sabotage Russian undersea cables to BREAK the global internet Nikolai Patrushev, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has accused the United States and the United Kingdom of plotting to sabotage underwater internet cables and destabilize the global maritime energy trade In response to these claims, a spokesperson for Britain's Foreign Office told Newsweek, "We are not going to provide a running commentary on Russia's conspiracy theories." The accusations follow reports from U.S. officials, cited by CNN in September, suggesting that Russia has been training a sabotage unit using submarines and drones to target underwater infrastructure, under orders from the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation's Main Directorate of Deep Sea Research. Patrushev, officially an aide to the president, a key figure behind Russia's special military operation in Ukraine and a former secretary of Russia's Security Council, claimed in a recent interview with Russian newspaper Kommersant that the U.S. and U.K. were responsible for the September 2022 attacks on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 natural gas pipelines. He suggested that Western intelligence agencies had the necessary equipment and personnel to carry out such operations to promote their economic interests. A Swedish investigation into the pipeline sabotage found evidence of deliberate damage, but a subsequent probe by Sweden and Denmark was closed in February 2024 without identifying suspects. German authorities, meanwhile, continue to investigate the incident, with reports indicating that a Ukrainian national may have been involved. Patrushev argued that Ukraine's Navy could not execute such an operation, asserting that "only special forces units from NATO countries could carry out sabotage on this scale." He further warned that marine fiber-optic cables, which form the backbone of global internet connectivity, could be targeted as part of efforts to sow chaos in global energy markets, including by destabilizing maritime transport. (Related: Undersea internet cable sabotage could unleash a worldwide disaster.) This assertion builds on a broader narrative that Patrushev and other Russian officials have advanced, accusing Western powers of targeting key maritime infrastructure to advance their geopolitical aims. Patrushev also linked this alleged strategy to U.S. strikes against Houthi rebels in the Persian Gulf, saying they were designed to safeguard Western economic interests in the region. Undersea cable infrastructure extremely vulnerable to sabotage The vulnerability of undersea cables has been a growing concern, as conflicts in Europe and the Middle East have underscored the risks to the global network of cables that carry more than 95 percent of international communications. In March, an estimated 25 percent of internet traffic between Asia, Europe and the Middle East was disrupted after multiple underwater telecom cables were severed in the Red Sea. While there was no direct evidence linking Yemen's Houthi rebels to the damage, their attacks on shipping in the region have raised the threat of further disruptions. Undersea cables, which have been in use since the 1850s, are vital to modern communication, carrying everything from personal data to critical military and financial information. These cables, typically laid by slow-moving ships, span over half a million miles, connecting continents and processing trillions of dollars in global transactions daily. Despite their importance, these cables are increasingly vulnerable to both accidental damage and deliberate attacks. Annually, between 100 and 150 cables are severed, most often due to fishing gear or anchors. However, as geopolitical tensions rise, the risk of state-sponsored sabotage is increasing. Watch this short video explaining why how important undersea cables are for global communications. This video is from the Farang Explorer channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Ukraine has suffered over 30,000 casualties in Kursk incursion, Putin claims. West not taking seriously enough the threat of a nuclear attack by Moscow, warns former Russian president. Microsoft says Russian hackers are targeting U.S. officials and defense contractors with phishing campaign. NATO developing plans for MASS CASUALTIES in WWIII conflict with Russia. Sources include: Newsweek.com TheWeek.com Brighteon.com Trump transition chairman Howard Lutnick a former CLINTON donor whose townhouse borders Epsteins NYC perv den In commemoration of the events of Oct. 7, 2023, in Israel, President-elect Donald Trump appeared with his transition chairman Howard Lutnick, a former Clinton donor whose New York City townhouse just so happens to border the "perv den" of pedophile Jeffrey Epstein. In the video below, watch as Trump, visibly donned in a Jewish kippah, stands with Israel in front of the tomb of Rabbi Schneerson, leader of the Chabad movement, who died in 1994. Many Jews still regard Schneerson as the "messiah," and Trump apparently agrees with this sentiment otherwise he would not have participated, right? It turns out that Lutnick ushered both Trump and right-wing media pundit and Zionist Ben Shapiro to "the tunnel-building Chabad cult" as part of the ceremony: Trump and his transition chairman Howard Lutnick commemorated October 7 by paying homage at the tomb of Rabbi Schneerson, the leader of the Chabad movement, who died in 1994 and is still regarded by many of his followers as the Messiah pic.twitter.com/st1zTpzAec Michael Tracey (@mtracey) October 7, 2024 (Related: Did you know that Democrats are furiously blaming Kamala Harris for her own election loss, including by picking the "wrong" running mate with Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz?) Howard Lutnick "luckily" escaped death on 9/11 Lutnick is an interesting character in that he was supposed to be present inside one of the World Trade Center (WTC) towers on Sept. 11, 2001, when a pair of commercial airplanes supposedly took down the entire WTC complex, along with Building 7. "Howard is lucky to be alive," tweeted Richard Griffing (@zulu934) on X / Twitter about this claim. "He was out of the office when the WTC was hit on 9/11. His staff wasn't so lucky." Concerning 9/11 once again, another piped in, claiming that Lutnick was allegedly involved in "counterfeiting treasures" and "destroying evidence" on 9/11. "Trump will bring in JWO," this person added, JWO referring to "Jew World Order." "The corruption and evil are out in the open for all to see who can see," suggested another about the farce of Trump showing up to such an event at all, and wearing Jewish paraphernalia to boot. "Perhaps it was always similar to this, but now we have ubiquitous cameras to show us." On and on the criticisms come as Americans are more skeptical of Trump this time around, even if more of them supported him over Kamala Harris. Will Trump really be the America First candidate he claims to be, or is he just another Israel First impostor pulling the wool over America's eyes? "The U.S. must be controlled by, like, six people max," joked another about how ridiculous this all appears in 2024 with easier-than-ever access to video evidence of what politicians are doing day in and day out on the U.S. taxpayer dime. "This must be what they call 'bipartisanship,'" mocked another. "This is why mainstream 'journalists' never go down proverbial rabbit holes," noted another about why news like this will come as a shock to many because America is not used to hearing the ugly truth that both political parties are one and the same, probably even with Trump. Another shared the following newspaper clip of Fred C. Trump, Donald Trump's father, donating land for the Talmud Torah of the Beach Haven Jewish Center in Brooklyn: Trump is a multi-generational Shabbos Goy. Just like the Wilks Bros. pic.twitter.com/BjpdyXRjxo Providence Post (@providencepost) October 8, 2024 The latest news about Trump's reinstallment as president and what it means for America moving forward can be found at Trump.news. Sources for this article include: X.com NaturalNews.com Rabid right-wing Zionist Ben Shapiro thrilled with Trumps cabinet picks so far: more winning for Israel The political schizophrenia of's Ben Shapiro is on full display after the right-wing Zionist took to X / Twitter to celebrate everyone who President-elect Donald Trump has thus far chosen to fill his cabinet. In 2016, Shapiro hated Trump with a passion, or at least it seemed that way with his rhetoric. Now, Shapiro can hardly contain his excitement about Trump restocking Washington with Zionists who will fulfill the administration's hidden Israel First agenda. "Waltz for NSA. Rubio for SecState. I've got a fevah, and the only prescription is more winning!" Shapiro tweeted, trying to be funny. This tweet is one of many that now fill Shapiro's X / Twitter feed praising Trump for choosing Zionist after Zionist to run the United States for the next four years. "The country is grateful @elonmusk for your involvement in making America great again," tweeted Zionist diehard Bill Ackman, also celebrating Trump's pro-Israel moves. (Related: Remember when Ben Shapiro attacked Candace Owens for quoting the Bible in condemnation of Israel's genocide in Gaza, calling her "absolutely disgraceful?") New president, same policies Former "never-Trumper" Erick Erickson is also overjoyed at Trump's cabinet picks so far, calling them "stellar." "I'd describe them as Jacksonian hawks, not neocons crucial differences: 1. Little to no moralizing 2. No nation building 3. Doesn't pick new fights 4. But punches back really hard," tweeted "Soros-funded 'conservative,'" to quote Information Liberation's Chris Menahan, Sohrab Ahmari (@SohrabAhmari) about Trump's cabinet picks so far. "So basically Trump's Foreign Policy teams is [sic] going to be led by hard neo-cons and if Harris had won she would have appointed different neo-cons to the same positions," responded Benjamin Fogel (@BenjaminFogel) about how it does not matter whether Trump or Kamala is in the White House the same people are pulling all the strings behind the scenes regardless. Getting back to Shapiro and his political schizophrenia, remember years ago when the guy pretended to oppose "gay marriage" in order to convince more conservatives that he is just like them, only to now start celebrating all the "gay marriages" that Trump is hosting at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida? "It really can't get any more obvious this guy's only driving 'principle' is ethnic self-interest," Menahan writes about Shapiro. Many are rightfully concerned that America under Trump in 2024 and beyond will be the same old Zionist free-for-all in which Israel and those who support it are placed at the top of the pyramid and everyone else forced down below under Israel's control. "Jews are only 2.3% of our population but own 70% of all the wealth, not to mention they control over 200 major organizations," a commenter wrote in frustration about what he sees as an unfair power apparatus centered around ethnic self-interest. "The Rothschild banking mafia gives their tribe every unfair advantage as they march instep to work domination. Our Bible warns us 90 times about the evil Jews." "Israel is facing an existential threat, and they would do anything to save Israel," suggested another. "Shapiro is an Israeli agent," wrote another, presenting a much different idea as to what is really going on right now behind the scenes. "He is trying to cozy up to Trump after he attacked Trump for years. Trump has no interest in what Shapiro says as he is well aware what a snake the little twerp is." On X / Twitter, the "George" (@BehizyTweets) account pointed out that anything Shapiro likes "tends to be bad for the rest of us." "Remember when you marketed the vaccine to your audience?" George asked Shapiro point-blank. "Remember when you declared that no fraud occurred in 2020? You're a fraud." Trump has not even been inaugurated yet and already he is thrilling the Zionist lobby with his pro-Israel agenda. Learn more at Trump.news. Sources for this article include: InformationLiberation.com NaturalNews.com New Delhi, Nov 17 : As Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived on Sunday on his first-ever visit to Nigeria, the Indian community living in the West African country turned up in large numbers giving him a rousing welcome, chanting 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' and 'Vande Mataram' slogans, at the Abuja airport. Thanking the Indian Diaspora in Nigeria for welcoming him, PM Modi wrote a post on X: "Heartwarming to see the Indian community in Nigeria extending such a warm and vibrant welcome!" Prime Minister Modi also praised the Indian community living in Nigeria for remaining connected with their roots, language, and culture. The Prime Minister also interacted with a large number of Indian women, children, and men living in the West African nation and uploaded pictures with them. In another post, PM Modi tweeted: "In Nigeria, the Marathi community expressed joy at Marathi being conferred the status of a Classical Language. It is truly commendable how they remain connected to their culture and roots." The city of Abuja was decked out with posters and hoardings of PM Modi early on Saturday as the Prime Minister emplaned from India for his five-day visit to three nations including Nigeria. PM Modi arrived in Abuja on Sunday. Nigeria is the first stop in the PM's five-day visit to three nations where the head of both nations aims to strengthen the strategic ties. After his visit to Nigeria from November 16 to 17, PM Modi will be heading to Brazil for the G20 summit. PM Modi's final destination is Guyana. The Indian diaspora expressed their enthusiasm surrounding PM Modi's maiden visit to Nigeria. Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally welcomed PM Modi at Abuja airport on Sunday, highlighting the importance of the visit to strengthen India-Nigeria ties. Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi thanked President Tinubu. "Landed a short while ago in Nigeria. Grateful for the warm welcome. May this visit deepen the bilateral friendship between our nations," PM Modi tweeted. PM Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the West African nation in 17 years. "I look forward to welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his first visit to Nigeria, which is also the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to our dear country since 2007. Our bilateral discussions will seek to expand the strategic partnership between both countries and enhance cooperation in critical sectors. Welcome to Nigeria, PM Modi @narendramodi," said Nigeria President Tinubu on Sunday. Invited by Nigeria President Tinubu, PM Modi was warmly received in Abuja by Minister for Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Ezenwo Wike. The Minister presented PM Modi with the Key to the City of Abuja, symbolising trust and honour from the Nigerian people, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). President Tinubu expressed his eagerness to welcome PM Modi, stating that their discussions aim to expand strategic partnerships and enhance cooperation in key sectors. "Welcome to Nigeria, Prime Minister Modi," Tinubu said in a post on X. PM Modi responded with gratitude, sharing images of his arrival and expressing hope for deepening bilateral friendship between India and Nigeria. PM Modi earlier said, "At the invitation of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it will be my first visit to Nigeria, which is our close partner in the West African region. My visit will be an opportunity to build upon our Strategic Partnership that is based on shared belief in democracy and pluralism. I am also eagerly looking forward to meeting the Indian community and friends from Nigeria who have sent me warm welcome messages in Hindi." KYODO NEWS - Nov 17, 2024 - 20:51 | Japan, All The approval rating for the Cabinet of Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba rose 7.9 percentage points to 40.0 percent, a Kyodo News survey showed Sunday, with a majority of respondents supporting the ruling coalition's minority government seeking policy deals with smaller parties. The telephone poll, conducted over two days from Saturday, showed the Cabinet's disapproval rating at 38.8 percent, down from 52.2 percent in the previous survey in late October. Some 67.9 percent said they approved of the ruling coalition's plans to work with smaller parties to pass bills smoothly, while 26.4 percent said the ruling bloc should allow opposition parties to join the coalition to form a majority. As a minority government, Ishiba's ruling Liberal Democratic Party plans to cooperate on a policy-by-policy basis with opposition parties. The latest survey comes after Ishiba was reelected as prime minister in a special parliament session Monday last week, even though the LDP and its junior coalition partner the Komeito party lost majority control of the House of Representatives in the Oct. 27 general election. The approval rate was a slight recovery toward the 50.7 percent support rate Ishiba received a day after he became prime minister on Oct. 1. A major focus of political negotiations is the Democratic Party for the People's campaign pledge to increase household incomes by raising the income tax threshold from 1.03 million yen ($6,670) to 1.78 million yen. Of those polled, 69.9 percent expressed support for the policy. In discussions with the LDP and Komeito, the DPP calls on the ruling coalition to include the higher income threshold in the economic stimulus that the Ishiba government aims to draw up by the end of this month. On the victory of Donald Trump in the U.S. presidential election, 32.4 percent said his return to the White House will be a negative for Japan-U.S. relations, while about 56.1 percent said ties will remain unchanged and 8.1 percent said they will improve. Trump is expected to pursue protectionist policies and his proposed tariffs could affect Japanese exporters' trade with the world's largest economy. Among political parties, 30.5 percent support the LDP, down 1.3 points, and support for the main opposition party, the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, fell 5.2 points to 15.1 percent. The DPP was down 0.8 point at 9.0 percent, while Komeito gained 0.5 point to 3.9 percent. The nationwide survey saw 480 randomly selected households with eligible voters contacted and 3,119 mobile phone numbers, yielding 414 and 607 responses, respectively. Related coverage: Japan PM confirms he will not meet with Trump on return from Brazil Japan extra Diet session eyed for Nov. 28 to pass budget Lima, Nov 17 : Chinese President Xi Jinping told his American counterpart President Joe Biden that the US-China relationship would remain "unchanged" following the election of Donald Trump. "China's goal of a stable, healthy, and sustainable China-US relationship remains unchanged," Xi told Biden during the opening remarks of their final meeting on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in Lima, Peru. "China is ready to work with the new US administration to maintain communication, expand cooperation, and manage differences, to strive for a steady transition of the China-US relationship for the benefit of the two peoples," Xi said. When it was Biden's turn to speak, he hailed the long partnership with Xi and acknowledged they hadn't always agreed. But he said they were frank and candid in their communications, which he called "vital". He said open communication prevented miscommunication and prevented the countries from veering into conflict. What happens between the US and China will impact everyone in the world, Biden said, making it their responsibility to get along. Biden told Xi that the two leaders haven't always agreed but their discussions have been "frank" and "candid". The talks come two months before Trump assumes office. He has vowed to adopt blanket 60 per cent tariffs on US imports of Chinese goods as part of a package of "America First" trade measures. Beijing opposes those steps. The US President-elect also plans to hire several hawkish voices on China in senior roles, including US Senator Marco Rubio as secretary of state and Representative Mike Waltz as national security adviser. Biden has aimed to lower tensions with China, but Washington is incensed by a recent China-linked hack of the telephone communications of the US government and presidential campaign officials, and it is anxious about increasing pressure by Beijing on Taiwan and Chinese support for Russia. Meanwhile, Taiwan's former Economy Minister Lin Hsin-i met Biden at the summit on Friday and invited him to visit Taiwan in the near future. China views democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory. The US is Taiwan's most important international backer and arms supplier, despite the lack of formal diplomatic recognition. Biden also wants China's help with North Korea, whose deepening ties with Russia and deployment of troops in the war with Ukraine has worried Washington. At the same time, Beijing's economy is taking a stiff hit from Biden's steps on trade, including a plan to restrict US investment in Chinese artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and semiconductors and export restrictions on high-end computer chips. All of those topics are expected to figure into the talks, US officials said. China routinely denies US hacking allegations, regards Taiwan as an internal matter, and has protested American statements on China-Russia trade. A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington declined to comment. "When the two countries treat each other as partner and friend, seek common ground while shelving differences and help each other succeed, our relationship would make considerable progress," Xi said as he met with Biden. "But if we take each other as rivals or adversary, pursue vicious competition, and seek to hurt each other, we would roil the relationship or even set it back." On Wednesday, Biden's National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan described the transition as "a time when competitors and adversaries can see possibly opportunity". Biden is stressing with Xi the "need to maintain stability, clarity, predictability through this transition between the US and China". Pacific Rim leaders gathered at the APEC summit are assessing the implications of Trump's return to power as US President on January 20. The South American summit offers new signs of the challenges to the United States' power in its own backyard, where China is on a charm offensive. Xi, who arrived in Lima on Thursday, plans a week-long diplomatic blitz in Latin America that includes a refurbished free-trade agreement with Peru, inaugurating the massive Chancay deep-water port there and being welcomed in Brazil's capital next week for a state visit. China also announced plans to host the APEC summit in 2026. New Delhi, Nov 17 : Legendary Australia fast-bowler Glenn McGrath has urged the Pat Cummins-led side to put pressure on an emotional Virat Kohli during the upcoming five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, starting in Perth from November 22. The talismanic Kohli averages just 22.72 in his six Test matches this year, way short than his average of 54.08 in Tests in Australia. Kohli comes into the Australia tour after making just 91 runs in Indias unprecedented 3-0 series defeat at home to New Zealand earlier this month. With Shubman Gill all set to miss first Test due to a fractured thumb, pressure would be more on Kohli to get big runs for India on a bouncy and pacy Perth pitch. "If they go hard at him, if he gets in the fight with emotions, theres a bit of chat out there, who knows he might sort of lift. But I think hes probably under pressure a little bit, and if he has a couple of low scores to start with, he could really feel it. I think hes quite an emotional player. When hes up, hes up, and when hes down, he sort of struggles a little bit," McGrath was quoted as saying by CODE Sports. He also feels Australia needs to up their aggression if they are to stop India from making a hat-trick of Test series wins Down Under. "Without a doubt, especially after coming off a 3-0 loss against New Zealand, youve got plenty of ammunition to back yourself up. So put the pressure on them and see if theyre up for it," added McGrath, who took 563 Test wickets at an average of just 21.64. Following the series opener at Perth, India and Australia will play the remaining four Test matches in Adelaide (pink-ball match), Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. It will also be the first five-match Test series between India and Australia since the 1991/92 season. Mumbai, Nov 17 : Bollywood multi-hyphenate Karan Johar is over the moon with the re-release of his home production Kal Ho Naa Ho. On Sunday, the director-producer took to the Stories section of his Instagram, and shared the poster of the movie, as he expressed his gratitude to peoples interest in the movie even after 21 years of its release. He wrote on the picture, So heartening to see full shows of our film 21 years later. Looking at people dancing and repeating dialogues of the film in cinemas is so gratifying. Kal Ho Naa Ho is celebrated as a milestone in Hindi cinema because of its urban approach of storytelling (the film was set in New York City and had an elegant urban upmarket styling) and more importantly its path-breaking melody driven music clubbed with Javed Akhtars lyrics. The film can very well be called a timeless piece of cinema owing to its music, styling, narrative and the dynamics of the characters. Interestingly, Preity Zinta was not the first choice for the role of Naina. Karan in fact, went with the film to Kareena Kapoor Khan, who had then just delivered a massive flop in the form of Mujhse Dosti Karoge which was directed by Kunal Kohli. As per Karans book An Unsuitable Boy, Karan had specifically asked his father Yash Johar to stay out of the negotiation room so he could convince Kareena at a cost effective budget. But, Kareena was demanding the same money as SRK as she felt Advani again being an assistant director making directorial debut rides with greater risk similar to Kohli. Prior to this KJo and Kareena had worked together in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. The discussion around money ended in a deadlock and Karan, hurt by Kareenas unreasonable demand, offered the film to Preity Zinta, and the rest is history. However, KJo and Kareena later buried their hatchets, and are known to be the BFFs in the fraternity. Abuja, Nov 17 : Nigeria will confer its second-highest national award, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), on Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his first official visit to the country. Notably, the only foreign dignitary to have previously received the award was Queen Elizabeth in 1969. PM Modi arrived in Abuja on Sunday as part of a three-nation diplomatic tour, which also includes Brazil and Guyana. Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally welcomed him at Abuja airport, signifying the importance of this visit in strengthening India-Nigeria relations. Expressing his gratitude on social media platform X, PM Modi said, "Landed a short while ago in Nigeria. Grateful for the warm welcome. May this visit deepen the bilateral friendship between our nations." This also marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years. This recognition will be the 17th international award conferred on the Prime Minister. Earlier this week, Dominica announced its highest national honour, the 'Dominica Award of Honour,' for PM Modi in acknowledgement of his pivotal support during the COVID-19 pandemic and his commitment to fostering India-Dominica relations. Dominica's President Sylvanie Burton is set to confer the award during the India-CARICOM Summit in Guyana, scheduled from November 19 to 21. PM Modi's three-nation tour runs from November 16 to 21, starting in Nigeria before moving to Brazil for the G20 Leaders' Summit. The tour will conclude in Guyana, marking the first state visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Caribbean nation in over five decades. Upon his arrival in Nigeria, PM Modi was warmly welcomed by members of the Indian diaspora, who expressed their enthusiasm for the visit. This historic diplomatic journey underscores India's commitment to strengthening ties with key global partners. Perth, Nov 17 : : In what comes as welcome news for India in their build-up to the first Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test starting on November 22, KL Rahul returned to batting during the team's training session at the WACA Stadium on Sunday. During Indias intra-squad match simulation on Friday, Rahul retired hurt on 29 after taking a blow to his right elbow from a climbing delivery by tall pacer Prasidh Krishna. He was forced to go off the field with the physio. As he left grimacing in pain, Rahul didnt return to bat for the rest of the day or on Saturday as well. Various reports coming from Perth on Sunday indicated that Rahul was put through a solid practice session with the Indian team, where players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, and Rishabh Pant hadnt shown up at the WACA. It was noted that Rahul spent nearly an hour batting on the centre wicket before commencing further practice at the nets. Although he wasnt very fluent with the bat, he didnt show signs of discomfort. With Shubman Gill set to miss the first Test due to a fractured thumb sustained while catching in the slips, and uncertainty surrounding Rohit Sharma's arrival in Perth after the birth of his second child on November 15, Rahuls return to batting is welcome news for the Indian team. He is one of the top-order batting options in the visitors line-up for the five-match series, alongside uncapped Abhimanyu Easwaran. India can also call upon left-handed batting duo B Sai Sudarshan and Devdutt Padikkal, who had good performances as India A batters in the two four-day games against Australia A. Hosts Australia will have their first training session at the WACA on Monday. Meanwhile, India had a week full of nets and centre-wicket simulations featuring both main players and A team members. India will begin their preparation at the Optus Stadium, the venue for the first Test, from Tuesday. New Delhi, Nov 17 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday appreciated a film, The Sabarmati Report, based on the Godhra train burning incident of February 27, 2002, in Gujarat, welcoming the factual depiction of the incident in which 59 people were killed. Sharing a cinegoers post on social media handle X praising the film, PM Modi said, Well said. It is good that this truth is coming out, and that too in a way common people can see it. A fake narrative can persist only for a limited period of time. Eventually, the facts will always come out! said PM Modi, who was the Chief Minister of Gujarat at the time of the train burning. PM Modi endorsed Alok Bhatts post in which the latter called the film a must-watch. The X user gave four reasons for watching the film. Why I feel the film #SabarmatiReport is a must-watch. Let me share my views. The effort is particularly commendable because it brings out the important truth of one of the most shameful events in our recent history, he wrote. Bhatt said, The makers of the film handled this issue with a lot of sensitivity and dignity. On a larger point, it is worth introspection for all of us as to how the brutal burning of passengers of the Sabarmati Express was turned into a political minefield by a vested interest group, who saw it as a means to tarnish the image of one leader. Their ecosystem peddled one lie after another just to satisfy their own petty agenda, said Bhatt in his post. He added, Finally 59 innocent victims got to speak for themselves. Yes, as they say, truth alone triumphs. This movie is indeed a fitting tribute to those 59 innocent men, women, and children we lost that February morning. The film is an attempt to showcase the events of the morning of February 27, 2002, aboard the Sabarmati Express near the Godhra railway station in Gujarat. The Central Board of Film Certification issued The Sabarmati Report a U/A certificate with few cuts as strong violent scenes, few muted words, and alterations. The duration of the film is 126.51 minutes. Co-produced by Balaji Motion Pictures and Vikir Films Production, the film features Vikrant Massey, Ridhi Dogra, and Raashii Khanna and is directed by Dheeraj Sarna. At least 59 people were killed in the Godhra train burning, which occurred on the morning of February 27, 2002. A total of 59 Hindu pilgrims and karsevaks returning from Ayodhya were killed in a fire inside the Sabarmati Express near the Godhra railway station in Gujarat. Amman, Nov 17 : Jordan's tourism revenue for the first 10 months of this year reached 6.1 billion US dollars, down 4.4 per cent from the same period last year, the state-owned Al Mamlaka TV reported Sunday. This decline is attributed to a 6.6 percent drop in the number of tourists, according to official figures. "The main reason for the decline in tourism is the cancellation of many flights by European airlines to Jordan due to the war in Gaza and Lebanon," Ilham Saeed, an economic news editor and analyst, told Xinhua news agency. The regional conditions forced airlines to cancel flights, leading to significant cancellations by tourist groups from Europe, he said. "It is essential to diversify tourism markets and attract tourists from other countries such as China and major East Asian markets as an alternative," Saeed said, adding that Jordan is safe and stable and the country needs to reach out to new markets. Samba, Nov 17 : The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Central government's Jal Jeevan Mission, which aims to provide clean tap water to every household, has transformed the lives of scores of residents. A village in the Jammu region now receives water round-the-clock, thanks to this significant scheme of the Modi government. The Jal Jeevan Mission has brought a new ray of hope to the Shama Chak village which is located near the India-Pakistan international border (IB) in the Ramgarh tehsil of Samba district. Under this scheme, every household in the village now has access to a tap with a supply of clean drinking water. Earlier, the villagers used to face multiple challenges and problems in obtaining potable water. Water scarcity and contaminated water used to create severe health issues. But with the installation of pipelines and the provision of taps in every home under the Jal Jeevan Mission, the lives of the villagers have become much easier. Prem Singh, a resident of Shama Chak, shared that this scheme has changed his life. Not only does he now have access to clean drinking water, but there is also enough water available for household chores. Earlier, due to contaminated water, diseases were on the rise, but now clean water is available to the villagers. He expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Central government for this initiative. Rajesh Singh, another resident, praised the efforts of the Jal Shakti Department in Samba, calling their work exemplary. He mentioned that just four to five years ago, the village had access to dirty water, but now it has been developed into a "model village," with 24-hour clean water supply through taps in every home. Access to clean water at all times is a dream come true for the villagers. Anu Bandral, a local woman, expressed that she never imagined such a significant facility would be provided in this remote border area. The 24-hour water supply has brought a major change to her life. This water supply not only simplified daily life but also helped improve cleanliness and health standards in the village. The local people are grateful to the Jal Shakti Department and the Central government for this facility. Vikaran Mahajan, an official from the Jal Shakti Department, Samba, explained that Shama Chak was included in the Jal Jeevan Mission, and now every household in the village has access to clean water. The department's efforts have ensured that villagers receive clean water 24 hours a day, making their daily lives much easier than before. Mahajan further stated: "The Jal Shakti Department is working to ensure that other border villages also receive 24-hour water supply in the near future. The department plans to use Shama Chak as a model and replicate similar development efforts in other villages to ensure clean water reaches every household." Abuja, Nov 17 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday agreed to work together to meet the development aspirations of the Global South and, at the same time, further strengthen the India-Nigeria Strategic Partnership. The two leaders had a restricted meeting followed by delegation-level talks at Abuja's Aso Rock Villa, which serves as the office and residence of the Nigerian Presidency. "Had a very productive discussion with President Tinubu. We talked about adding momentum to our strategic partnership. There is immense scope for ties to flourish even further in sectors like defence, energy, technology, trade, health, education and more," PM Modi posted on X after the bilateral discussions. Tinubu acknowledged India's efforts to amplify the concerns of developing countries through the Voice of the Global South Summits. "Expressing satisfaction at the progress of ties, they agreed that there was immense potential for collaboration in the fields of trade, investment, education, energy, health, culture, and people-to-people ties. The Prime Minister offered Indias experience in agriculture, transportation, affordable medicine, renewable energy, and digital transformation to Nigeria," read a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). "President Tinubu appreciated the development cooperation partnership offered by India and its meaningful impact in creating local capacities, skills, and professional expertise. The two leaders also discussed enhancing defence and security cooperation. They reaffirmed their commitment to jointly fighting terrorism, piracy and radicalisation," it added. During their meeting, Prime Minister Modi recalled his warm interaction with President Tinubu at the G 20 Summit in New Delhi, last year. He noted that the two countries enjoy special bonds of friendship defined by a shared past, common democratic values and strong people-to-people ties. PM Modi also conveyed his sympathies to the Nigerian President for the destruction caused by the recent floods in the country while President Tinubu thanked the PM for Indias timely assistance with relief material and medicines. As they reviewed the ongoing bilateral cooperation, the two leaders also discussed global and regional issues. Prime Minister Modi appreciated the role played by Nigeria as the current chair of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and its contribution to multilateral and plurilateral bodies. Alluding to Nigerias membership of the International Solar Alliance and the International Big Cat Alliance, Prime Minister Modi invited President Tinubu to join other pro-planet green initiatives launched by India. Following the talks, three Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) - on Cultural Exchange Programme, Customs Cooperation and Survey Cooperation were signed. Tinubu also conferred the national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on Prime Minister Modi. "Nigeria values its excellent relationship with India, and we work to deepen and broaden the same to the mutual benefit of our two friendly countries. You represent a very strong commitment in democratic values and norms. You have been doing a good job historically, winning three consecutive elections in a complex society is a feat that we respect so much," said Tinubu. "I will confer on you today, the Prime Minister of India, Nigerias National Honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger. This to signify Nigerian appreciation and commitment to India as a partner," he added as the ceremony was followed by a state banquet hosted by the Nigerian President in honour of Prime Minister Modi. Notably, the only foreign dignitary to have previously received the award was Queen Elizabeth in 1969. Earlier in the day, PM Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome with a 21-gun salute as he arrived at the State House. Prime Minister Modi will interact with the Indian diaspora at a community event before leaving for Brazil to attend the G20 Summit. Abuja, Nov 17 : Lauding the Indian community's contribution to the development of Nigeria, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asserted that Indians never forget their values even while pursuing the global common good. "You all have not only given your hard work and effort to Nigeria, but also your hearts to Nigeria. The Indian community here has always stood by Nigeria in both its joys and sorrows... There are many Indian doctors here who are serving the people of Nigeria," said PM Modi while interacting with the Indian diaspora at a community event in Abuja before wrapping up his State Visit to the West African nation - the first by an Indian PM in 17 years. "Even if we go to other countries, we never forget our values that serve the greater good. We are those people who have lived for centuries with values that consider the whole world as one family. For us, the entire world is one family. the pride you have brought to Indian culture in Nigeria is evident everywhere. Yoga is becoming increasingly popular among the people here..." he added. The 60-000 strong Indian diaspora in Nigeria is the largest in West Africa, ensuring people-to-people contact between the two countries for decades. PM Modi met hundreds of Indians immediately after holding bilateral discussions with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, following which he was conferred the national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON). Prime Minister Modi is the first foreign leader to be conferred with the Nigerian national honour since 1969. "President Tinubu has honoured me with Nigeria's National Award. This honour belongs to the people of India. This honour belongs to all of you - Indians living here in Nigeria," he stated. PM Modi asserted that stepping out of the comfort zone, innovating and creating new paths has now become the very essence of today's India. "In the past decade, India has added nearly two trillion dollars to its GDP. In just 10 years, the size of India's economy has doubled. Today, India is the fifth-largest economy in the world... We often hear that those who step out of their comfort zones are the ones who achieve something big. Now, you don't need me to explain this to you because you've already made it this far. Today, India and its youth are moving forward with this very spirit. That's why India is rapidly growing in new sectors today. India's startup ecosystem, which you may not have heard of 10-15 years ago, is thriving," he told the large gathering. A confident India, said PM Modi, has embarked on a new journey with the ultimate goal of building a 'Viksit Bharat'. As the bilateral trade between India and Nigeria continues to grow, reaching about $15 billion, PM Modi mentioned the strong presence of Indians and the Indian companies in Nigeria that are involved in a variety of sectors. The PM mentioned that whenever a challenge arises anywhere in the world, India rises as the first responder to extend its support. At the same, he highlighted that over the years, India has made every possible effort to raise Africa's voice on global platforms. "Gandhiji spent a long time in Africa. He shared a deep bond with the people of Africa. During the era of slavery, both the people of India and Nigeria left no stone unturned in their struggle for independence. When India gained independence, it also inspired Nigeria's own movement for freedom. Today, India and Nigeria are moving forward together, like comrades from the days of struggle. India is the mother of democracy, and Nigeria is the largest democracy in Africa," he said. This was also PM Modi's first visit to the West African region. The Nigerian President had visited India last year for the G20 Summit as a guest country at PM Modi's invitation that eventually also paved the way for the African nation to participate in the upcoming G20 Summit in Brazil as an invitee country. KYODO NEWS - Nov 17, 2024 - 09:11 | All, Japan, World Japan and South Korea on Saturday expressed their "serious concern" about Pyongyang's missile development and its deepening military cooperation with Moscow after North Korean troops began fighting in Russia's war against Ukraine. At their summit, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol agreed on the need for the two nations to work together, and trilaterally with their common ally the United States to address such security issues, according to the Japanese government. Meeting on the fringes of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum summit in Lima for about 50 minutes, the two leaders also confirmed that they will advance bilateral ties in a "comprehensive" manner not only in politics and business but other fields such as culture. The summit was the second in about a month since Ishiba took office in October, signaling a continued improvement in bilateral ties that were long frayed over disputes related to wartime history and territory. Ishiba has said he wants to maintain the thaw in relations seen under his predecessor Fumio Kishida and Yoon. Tokyo and Seoul will be celebrating the 60th anniversary of the normalization of bilateral ties next year. Japan and South Korea face common security threats from North Korea, which continues to launch ballistic missiles. Pyongyang test-fired what it claimed to be a new intercontinental ballistic missile, followed by short-range ballistic missiles ahead of the U.S. presidential election. North Korea has also sent troops to Russia for participation in Moscow's war in Ukraine. During a trilateral summit in the Peruvian capital Friday, the leaders of Japan, South Korea and the United States agreed to set up a secretariat tasked with policy coordination on security and other priorities. Related coverage: Japan, U.S., South Korea set up secretariat to enshrine cooperation Abuja, Nov 17 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday evening departed Nigeria for Brazil to attend the G20 Summit, highlighting his "productive visit" to the west African powerhouse. "PM @narendramodi emplanes for Brazil after concluding a productive visit to Nigeria," the PMO said in a post on X. Ahead of his departure, PM Modi, in a post on X, said: "Thank you Nigeria for a productive visit, which will add speed and vigour to India-Nigeria friendship". Earlier, PM Modi and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu agreed to work together to meet the development aspirations of the Global South and, at the same time, further strengthen the India-Nigeria Strategic Partnership. The two leaders had a restricted meeting followed by delegation-level talks at Abuja's Aso Rock Villa, which serves as the office and residence of the Nigerian Presidency. "Had a very productive discussion with President Tinubu. We talked about adding momentum to our strategic partnership. There is immense scope for ties to flourish even further in sectors like defence, energy, technology, trade, health, education and more," PM Modi posted on X after the bilateral discussions. Tinubu acknowledged India's efforts to amplify the concerns of developing countries through the Voice of the Global South Summits. "Expressing satisfaction at the progress of ties, they agreed that there was immense potential for collaboration in the fields of trade, investment, education, energy, health, culture, and people-to-people ties. The Prime Minister offered India's experience in agriculture, transportation, affordable medicine, renewable energy, and digital transformation to Nigeria," read a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). "President Tinubu appreciated the development cooperation partnership offered by India and its meaningful impact in creating local capacities, skills, and professional expertise. The two leaders also discussed enhancing defence and security cooperation. They reaffirmed their commitment to jointly fighting terrorism, piracy and radicalisation," it added. PM Modi while addressing the Indian community in Nigeria, asserted that Indians never forget their values even while pursuing the global common good. "You all have not only given your hard work and effort to Nigeria but also your hearts to Nigeria. The Indian community here has always stood by Nigeria in both its joys and sorrows... There are many Indian doctors here who are serving the people of Nigeria," said PM Modi while interacting with the Indian diaspora at a community event in Abuja before wrapping up his State Visit to the West African nation - the first by an Indian PM in 17 years. "Even if we go to other countries, we never forget our values that serve the greater good. We are those people who have lived for centuries with values that consider the whole world as one family. For us, the entire world is one family. the pride you have brought to Indian culture in Nigeria is evident everywhere. Yoga is becoming increasingly popular among the people here..." he added. The 60-000 strong Indian diaspora in Nigeria is the largest in West Africa, ensuring people-to-people contact between the two countries for decades. Nigeria also conferred the national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his first official visit to the country while emphasising that India has positioned itself as a global powerhouse under PM Modi's visionary leadership. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu honoured PM Modi after their bilateral meeting held at Abuja's Aso Rock Villa which serves as the office and residence of the Nigerian Presidency. The award citation notes that under PM's visionary leadership, India has been positioned as a global powerhouse and his transformative governance has fostered unity, peace and shared prosperity for all. PM Modi thanked President Tinubu and the people of Nigeria for the honour, which he dedicated to the people of India and to the longstanding friendship between India and Nigeria. "Honoured to be conferred with the 'Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger' Award by Nigeria. I accept it with great humility and dedicate it to the people of India," said PM Modi. The Indian PM is the first foreign leader to be conferred with this award since 1969 when Queen Elizabeth received Nigeria's highest national honour. Researchers from Auburn University, partnering with the University of Basel in Switzerland, have discovered a new way to make a cancer-targeting protein complex more stable, opening doors to better cancer treatments. Led by Dr. Rafael Bernardi from Auburn's Department of Physics and Dr. Michael Nash from the Department of Chemistry at the University of Basel, the study focuses on PD-L1, a protein that tumors use to hide from the immune system. In many cancers, PD-L1 acts as a "shield," binding to immune cells and signaling them to ignore the cancer, allowing the tumor to grow undetected. By blocking PD-L1, treatments can help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively. In this study, the researchers investigated the PD-L1 interactions with a small protein called an "Affibody," which is designed to stick to cancer cells and help carry cancer-fighting drugs directly to the tumor. Together, these two proteins could make it easier to deliver treatments exactly where they're needed, making cancer therapies more effective and reducing side effects on healthy cells. Published in ACS Nano, a leading scientific journal from the American Chemical Society, the study introduces the concept of "force anisotropy," demonstrating how the strength of the PD-L1 and Affibody pairing varies based on specific attachment points. The team discovered that adjusting the attachment points on PD-L1 could make this pair up to four times stronger. "This breakthrough could improve how we attach drugs to proteins like Affibodies so they can find and bind to cancer cells effectively," said Dr. Diego Gomes, a postdoctoral researcher at Auburn. By adjusting where we attach Affibodies, we can make them stronger so they stay intact in the body longer, helping them reach cancer cells more effectively." Dr. Rafael Bernardi from Auburn's Department of Physics The team used both lab experiments and computer models to test how well the protein complex could hold together. They found that with the right adjustments, the complex not only held strong but even grew more stable under tension, making it ideal for carrying treatments directly to cancer cells. This discovery could lead to more reliable drug delivery systems, allowing researchers to develop cancer therapies that target tumors more precisely and stay effective longer. Dr. Bernardi's team is now looking to design even stronger Affibody proteins that can find and attach to different cancer types with greater accuracy. Beyond drug delivery, this work may also help in cancer surgery, where Affibodies can carry dyes to make cancer cells glow under special lights, helping surgeons spot and remove tumors. They could also be loaded with radiation to directly target and kill cancer cells over time. This research reflects Auburn University's commitment to developing innovative science with real impact in healthcare, as Dr. Bernardi and his team explore new frontiers in designing proteins to improve cancer treatments. With the worldwide population aging at an unprecedented rate, the prevention of age-related diseases has become a prominent issue. It is important to comprehensively and quantitatively evaluate the changes that aging causes at the molecular level in the body. By doing so, it may be possible to pinpoint specific aging factors and suppress age-related diseases. Addressing this problem, previously conducted research established an atlas of changes in major tissues from aging by determining the extent to which mRNA was produced within living cells. However, there has not been an atlas of changes in proteins associated with aging. To fill this gap in research, a team led by Lecturer Masaki Takasugi and Professor Naoko Ohtani at Osaka Metropolitan University's Graduate School of Medicine constructed a highly comprehensive database called the Mouse Aging Proteomic Atlas. They did so by analyzing the proteomes and transcriptomes of brain, artery, heart, kidney, liver, lung, skeletal muscle, and skin tissues of 6-, 15-, 24-, and 30-month-old mice, as well as extracellular matrix-enriched fractions of major tissues. Through this, it became possible to analyze the characteristics of protein groups affected by aging in major tissues and revealed proteins in the extracellular matrix that increased with age. By clarifying the changes in various tissues due to aging in detail with regard to the number of proteins that are directly linked to gene function, we have dramatically improved our understanding of the overall changes on the molecular level." Dr. Masaki Takasugi, Osaka Metropolitan University's Graduate School of Medicine Professor Ohtani concluded, "The results of this research are expected to contribute to a better understanding of the changes that occur with age." The findings were published in Nature Communications. An international, multidisciplinary team of leading neuro-oncology researchers and clinicians has released new recommendations for good clinical practice - a set of guidelines that helps ensure clinical trial results are reliable, and patients are protected - regarding the use of artificial intelligence methods to more accurately diagnose, monitor and treat brain cancer patients. The team recently published two companion policy reviews in The Lancet Oncology, on behalf of the clinically authoritative Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology cooperative group, which is a collaboration of international experts who develop standardized criteria for evaluating treatment response in clinical trials for brain cancer. Indiana University School of Medicine's Spyridon Bakas is the lead author on the second policy review, which establishes guidelines for standardization, validation and good clinical practice of AI for neuro-oncology. He said the new recommendations are a much-needed update to the current standard of care in which individual radiologists measure tumor size, which dictates treatment options. This is not ideal, Bakas said, because the assessment is often subjective. Each radiologist can interpret imaging scans differently, leading to treatment strategies that fluctuate based on who views the scan. We can use AI to look at images of the tumors more objectively. AI programs can help determine quickly what type of disease it is, what subtype of tumor and what particular grade it is, in addition to helping track the progress of a lesion during treatment." Spyridon Bakas, the Joshua Edwards Associate Professor in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and the director of the Division of Computational Pathology, IU School of Medicine, researcher in the IU Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center According to the team, there are predictive, prognostic and diagnostic AI models and solutions that are becoming available for health care practitioners, but how they are used varies widely at different institutions. "Thanks to new technology, there are ways to use AI to help assess whether a tumor is progressing or is stable," said Raymond Y. Huang, associate professor at Harvard Medical School and neuroradiology division chief at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. "However, there needs to be a standardized way to use AI to accurately diagnose and treat patients." The team reviewed existing research articles and publications related to current advancements of AI in the field to develop the guidelines, which were presented at this year's American Society of Clinical Oncology meeting in Chicago, Illinois, and the annual meeting of the European Association for Neuro-Oncology in Glasgow, Scotland. The guidelines will also be presented at the Society for Neuro-Oncology meeting in November in Houston, Texas. Some of the authors' guidelines include: Using software that has been developed using large and importantly diverse cohorts of patient data. Ensuring the AI models for defining a tumor follow World Health Organization criteria. Considering how the tumor images are obtained, processed and segmented before analyzing them. "These guidelines are critical for ensuring that AI tools developed in the U.K. and beyond meet rigorous standards and improve patient outcomes," said Thomas Booth, a co-author from King's College London. "With these recommendations, we can move towards more accurate, standardized AI applications that benefit both clinicians and patients across the U.K. and internationally." Because AI is still new, these recommendations are among the first in the world regarding its proper use in cancer care. However, further study is necessary. "It is important that we continue our study of these AI models on large, diverse patient populations to continue extending our understanding of disease and improving the way we use them," Bakas said. Other authors on the study include Philipp Vollmuth of the University of Bonn; Norbert Galldiks of the University of Cologne; Hugo JWL Aerts and Wenya Linda Bi of Harvard Medical School; Benedikt Wiestler of Technical University of Munich; Pallavi Tiwari and Marwa Ismail of the University of Wisconsin; Sarthak Pati and Ujjwal Baid of the IU School of Medicine; Philipp Lohmann of the Research Center Juelich and the RWTH Aachen University, Germany; Martha Nowosielski of Medical University Innsbruck; Rajan Jain of New York University; Rivka Colen of the University of Pittsburgh; Ghulam Rasool and Michael Vogelbaum of the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute; Evan Calabrese of Duke University; Janine M. Lupo, Susan M. Chang and Javier E. Villanueva-Meyer of the University of California San Francisco; Hamed Akbari of Santa Clara University; Joerg C. Tonn of Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich; David MacDonald of the London Regional Cancer Program; and Christos Davatzikos of the University of Pennsylvania. This research was supported by the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the U.S. Department of Defense, the Dana Foundation David Mahoney Neuroimaging Program, the V Foundation for Cancer Research, the European Union's European Research Council, the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation), and more. mRNA vaccines saved lives during the COVID-19 pandemic, but older people had less of an immune response to the vaccines than did younger adults. Why? Boston Children's researchers, led by Byron Brook, PhD, and Ofer Levy, MD, PhD, have found some answers, while providing proof-of-concept of a new system that can model vaccine responses in a dish. The test system, described in a paper out today in iScience, is called MEMPHIS (Modular Evaluation of immunogenicity using Multi-Platform Human In vitro Systems). It analyzes whole human blood from people of different age groups and applies both proteomics and targeted assays to measure the production of cytokines (immune signaling proteins) induced by mRNA vaccines. "Our excitement here is the ability to model responses to mRNA vaccines outside the body in an age-specific fashion, which we demonstrate for the first time," says Levy, who heads the Precision Vaccines Program at Boston Children's. "Our model gives us insight into vaccine activity in vulnerable populations." This, in turn, could help expedite the search for more effective vaccines. Multi-pronged monitoring The team collected blood samples from people in different age groups and added the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID mRNA vaccine to the samples. Extensive tests, including proteomics and systems biology approaches, then measured immune activation in response to the vaccine. This approach identified muted innate immune responses in people over age 60 as compared with those age 18 to 50. In particular, older adults showed an impaired ability to support TH1 immunity, with diminished early inflammatory responses, and lower levels of four key cytokines (CXCL10, IL-1RA, IFN-g, and CCL4), biomarkers that signify generation of a larger immune response. The early innate response to mRNA vaccines is critical in instructing the adaptive immune system, triggering maturation of CD4 T cells and supporting downstream cellular and antibody responses that are long-lived." Byron Brook, PhD, researcher, Boston Children's The lower initial response associated with advancing age, also seen in mice, may explain why immunity waned more quickly in older adults, the researchers say. While mouse studies have traditionally been considered a gold standard for research, they are expensive, time-consuming, and don't always accurately capture human immune biology. In 2022, Congress passed the FDA Modernization Act 2.0, which allows for alternatives to animal testing, including human cell and organoid models alongside systems biology approaches. Levy emphasizes that their MEMPHIS test system, for which they've filed a patent, is an exemplar of this new approach. The system provides a nimbler way to predict age-specific human vaccine responses, allowing multiple vaccine doses and vaccine adjuvants - compounds that boost the immune response, of particular interest in Levy's lab - to be tested simultaneously in samples from the same person. "If we could elicit a young-adult-like innate immune response in an elder, we might be able to provide more protection," says Brook. De-risking vaccine development for infants and elders Brook and Levy are now planning a similar study in newborn infants, who have distinct immune systems and vaccine responses. They also want to use their assay to find biomarkers in the blood that predict which mRNA vaccine is most likely to be effective. "We want to accelerate and de-risk vaccine development using human in vitro systems and eventually be able to select which vaccine and adjuvant are optimal for each population," says Levy. Researchers at Tel Aviv University have made a fundamental discovery: the NMDA receptor (NMDAR) - long studied primarily for its role in learning and memory - also plays a crucial role in stabilizing brain activity. By setting the "baseline" level for activity in neural networks, the NMDAR helps maintain stable brain function amidst continuous environmental and physiological changes. This discovery may lead to innovative treatments for diseases linked to disrupted neural stability, such as depression, Alzheimer's disease, and epilepsy. The study was led by Dr. Antonella Ruggiero, Leore Heim, and Dr. Lee Susman from Prof. Inna Slutsky's lab at the Faculty of Medicial and Health Sciences at Tel Aviv University. Prof. Slutsky, who is also affiliated with the Sagol School of Neuroscience, heads the Israeli Society for Neuroscience and directs the Sieratzki Institute for Advances in Neuroscience. Additional researchers included Dr. Ilana Shapira, Dima Hreaky, and Maxim Katsenelson from the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at Tel Aviv University, and Prof. Kobi Rosenblum from the University of Haifa. The study was published in the prestigious journal Neuron. In recent decades, brain research has mainly focused on processes that allow information encoding, memory, and learning, based on changes in synaptic connections between nerve cells. But the brain's fundamental stability, or homeostasis, is essential to support these processes. In our lab, we explore the mechanisms that maintain this stability, and in this study, we focused on the NMDAR - a receptor known to play a role in learning and memory." Prof. Inna Slutsky, Faculty of Medicial and Health Sciences at Tel Aviv University This comprehensive project used three primary research methods: electrophysiological recordings from neurons in both cultured cells (in vitro) and living, behaving mice (in vivo) within the hippocampus, combined with computational modeling (in silico). Each approach provided unique insights into how NMDARs contribute to stability in neural networks. Dr. Antonella Ruggiero studied NMDAR function in cultured neurons using an innovative technique called "dual perturbation," developed in Prof. Slutsky's lab. "First, I exposed neurons to ketamine, a known NMDAR blocker," she explains. "Typically, neuronal networks recover on their own after disruptions, with activity levels gradually returning to baseline due to active compensatory mechanisms. But when the NMDAR was blocked, activity levels stayed low and didn't recover. Then, with the NMDAR still blocked, I introduced a second perturbation by blocking another receptor. This time, the activity dropped and recovered as expected, but to a new, lower baseline set by ketamine, not the original level." This finding reveals the NMDAR as a critical factor in setting and maintaining the activity baseline in neuronal networks. It suggests that NMDAR blockers may impact behavior not only through synaptic plasticity but also by altering homeostatic set points. Building on this discovery, Dr. Ruggiero sought to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind the NMDAR's role in tuning the set point. She identified that NMDAR activity enables calcium ions to activate a signaling pathway called eEF2K-BDNF, previously linked to ketamine's antidepressant effects. Leore Heim investigated whether the NMDAR similarly affects baseline activity in the hippocampus of living animals. A major technical challenge was administering an NMDAR blocker directly to the hippocampus without affecting other brain areas, while recording long-term activity at the individual neuron level. "Previous studies often used injections that delivered NMDAR blockers across the entire brain, leading to variable and sometimes contradictory findings," he explains. "To address this, I developed a method combining direct drug infusion into the hippocampus with long-term neural activity recording in the same region. This technique revealed a consistent decrease in hippocampal activity across states like wakefulness and sleep, with no compensatory recovery as seen with other drugs. This strongly supports that NMDARs set the activity baseline in hippocampal networks in living animals." Mathematician Dr. Lee Susman created computational models to answer a longstanding question: Is brain stability maintained at the level of the entire neural network, or does each neuron individually stabilize itself? "Based on the data from Antonella and Leore's experiments, I found that stability is maintained at the network level, not within single neurons," he explains. "Using models of neural networks, I showed that averaging activity across many neurons provides computational benefits, including noise reduction and enhanced signal propagation. However, we need to better understand the functional significance of single-neuron drift in future studies." Prof. Slutsky adds: "We know that ketamine blocks NMDARs, and in 2008, it was FDA-approved as a rapid-acting treatment for depression. Unlike typical antidepressants like Cipralex and Prozac, ketamine acts immediately by blocking NMDARs. However, until now, it wasn't fully understood how the drug produced its antidepressant effects. Our findings suggest that ketamine's actions may stem from this newly discovered role of NMDAR: reducing the activity baseline in overactive brain regions seen in depression, like the lateral habenula, without interfering with homeostatic processes. This discovery could reshape our understanding of depression and pave the way for developing innovative treatments." Over the past three decades, there has been a startling increase in the prevalence of obesity across the USA, at least doubling in adult men and women (aged 25 and older) and older female and male adolescents (aged 15-24 years) since 1990, with the number of people living with overweight and obesity reaching over 208 million in 2021 - a trend set to continue in the coming decades without significant reform, according to a major new analysis from the Global Burden of Disease Study Collaborator Network, published in The Lancet. Especially high levels of overweight and obesity have already been reached in several US states, with over half (52%) of older adolescent males (aged 15-24 years) in Texas and nearly two-thirds (63%) of older adolescent females in Mississippi living with overweight or obesity in 2021. Similarly, in adults (aged 25 or older), around 80% of men in North Dakota and women in Mississippi were estimated to have overweight or obesity in 2021. The study predicts devastating trends at the population level. The total number of US children and adolescents with overweight and obesity is expected to reach 43.1 million by 2050 (an additional 6.74 million from 2021), and the number of adults 213 million (an additional 41.4 million), underscoring the urgent need for concerted population-wide action to reverse these trends and the stark geographical and sex disparities. Our analysis lays bare the decades-long failure to tackle the growing overweight and obesity epidemic in the USA. The catastrophic consequences of the surge in overweight and obesity among children are already evident in the rising prevalence of childhood hypertension and type 2 diabetes." Emmanuela Gakidou, lead author, Professor from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), University of Washington, USA "Overweight and obesity can trigger serious health conditions - many of which are now occurring at younger ages, including diabetes, heart attacks, stroke, cancer, mental health disorders, and even premature death. The soaring health system and economic costs will be equally pervasive, with over 260 million people in the USA, including over half of all children and adolescents, expected to be living with overweight or obesity by 2050. United efforts and urgent investments are needed to alter these troubling trajectories and ensure a healthier future for current and upcoming generations." The new analysis estimated the prevalence of overweight and obesity for children and young adolescents (aged 5-14 years), older adolescents (aged 15-24 years), and adults (aged 25 and older) from 1990 to 2021 with forecasts to 2050 (assuming continuation of past trends and patterns) using 134 unique data sources, including all major national surveillance survey data. The new analysis provides in-depth forecasts, broken down at the state level, as well as by age and sex. Adjustments were made to correct for self-reporting bias. For individuals older than 18 years, overweight was defined as having a BMI of 25 kg/m to less than 30 kg/m and obesity was defined as a BMI of 30 kg/m or higher. For individuals younger than 18 years definitions were based on International Obesity Task Force criteria. 213 million American adults predicted to have overweight or obesity in 2050 Almost three-quarters of the adult population (172 million adults aged 25 or older) in the USA were estimated to be living with overweight or obesity in 2021. The prevalence of obesity rose especially rapidly, doubling between 1990 and 2021 in both adult men (from 18.6% to 41.5%) and women (from 22.8% to 45.6%; see table in Notes to Editors) The estimated prevalence of adult overweight and obesity was high across all states in 2021. In men, levels ranged from 80.6% in North Dakota to 65.3% in Washington DC; while in women, levels ranged from 79.9% in Mississippi to 63.7% in Hawaii (see figures 1C and D in paper.) Continuation of these trends would see overweight and obesity prevalence among adults (age-standardized to allow comparisons between states and over time) rise from an estimated 75.9% in 2021 to around 81.1% for men and from 72.6% to 82.1% for women. This would mean an estimated 41.4 million additional adults living with overweight or obesity by 2050 (raising the total to 213 million, of whom 146 million will have obesity). Concerningly, the prevalence of obesity is projected to increase at a more rapid rate than overweight, and faster among adult men than women. Between 2021 and 2050, the highest rise in obesity prevalence among men is expected in Colorado (up 44.2%) and New Mexico (up 41.2%), and among adult women in Kansas and Colorado (both up 34.9%). However, the highest levels of obesity are expected to remain in the southern states, with around two-thirds of adult men in West Virginia and Kentucky forecast to be living with obesity by 2050, as well as two-thirds of adult women in 12 states, with especially high rates of obesity predicted in Mississippi, West Virginia, and Arkansas and Alabama (both around 69%; see figure 4B in paper). Interestingly, the onset of obesity has become earlier over subsequent generations. For example, approximately two out of five women born in the 1960s were living with obesity at the age of 45, however the same proportion were living with obesity by the age of 30 for women born in the 1980s, and by the age of 20 for women born in 2020 (see figure 5). "Obesity is at a crisis point throughout the USA, with every state challenged to some degree," said co-author Affiliate Associate Professor Marie Ng from IHME, University of Washington, USA. "Over the past three decades, the country has experienced extensive economic, demographic, and technological transitions that have triggered profound changes to food and agricultural systems, urbanisation, and wealth and educational inequalities together with underlying structural racism that all interact to drive population-wide obesity - whether it be the marketing of unhealthy food products to children, the proliferation of sedentary online activities, or food deserts (neighbourhoods that lack healthy, affordable food options) that are more common in racial and ethnic minority neighborhoods." Unprecedented epidemic of childhood and adolescent obesity The new analysis estimates that older adolescent obesity prevalence rose substantially in the USA between 1990 and 2021, more than doubling in both males (from 8.8% to 22.7%) and females (from 10.1% to 28.8% see table in Notes to Editors). In 2021, an estimated 15.1 million children and young adolescents and 21.4 million older adolescents were living with overweight or obesity. However, they impact segments of the American population differently, with older adolescent females (50.8%) experiencing higher prevalence in 2021 than older adolescent males (46.7%), with especially high rates among older adolescent females in Mississippi, Alabama, and Oklahoma (where levels exceeded 59%), and among older adolescent males in Texas and West Virginia (where levels exceeded 52%; Figure 1A and B in paper). The new study predicts that an additional 3.3 million children and young adolescents and 3.41 million older adolescents will be living with overweight or obesity by 2050 (raising the total to 43.1 million, of whom 24 million will have obesity). With the increase in obesity projected to outpace the increase in overweight, around one in five children and at least one in three adolescents are expected to be living with obesity in 2050. The rising tide of adolescent obesity is projected to reach the highest levels among older adolescent males in Oklahoma (43%), Mississippi (39.8%) and West Virginia (37.7%) in 2050, and affect at least half of older adolescent females living in Mississippi, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Alabama (see figure 4A). However, the largest numbers of older adolescents with obesity will continue to be in California (1.53 million) and Texas (1.49 million) in 2050. Associate Professor Ng said: "The mechanisms behind the rising obesity prevalence are much more complex than just a matter of excessive energy intake and physical inactivity. Existing interventions which focus on lifestyle-based behavioural changes do not produce sufficient and sustainable reductions in overweight and obesity, especially among children and adolescents. Addressing the structural drivers of population obesity and emphasising prevention must be central to any future strategies. Future interventions also need to account for societal shifts in acceptance of obesity, alongside tailoring solutions by sex and for states with high obesity rates." Population-level prevention and a cross-government strategy key to tackling obesity crisis The analysis notes that while anti-obesity medications like glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have a place in obesity management, they alone will not be enough to solve the obesity epidemic. As Associate Professor Ng explains: "Given the predicted surge in overweight and obesity, demand for anti-obesity medication will definitely increase, but it is not a silver bullet. With concern surrounding prohibitive costs and equitable access, together with varying effectiveness and potentially serious side-effects, prevention will remain a primary strategy." The authors stress that prevention needs to become a much more dominant focus of obesity control and that any policies aiming to tackle the obesity crisis must be a priority at federal and state governments and backed by high-level political commitment. They should also be comprehensive, reaching individuals across the life course and targeting inequalities. For example, given that obesity is intergenerational, the authors say that intervention needs to begin with pregnant women and early feeding practices. "Rather than relying on individual agency, stronger governance is needed to support and implement a multifaceted whole-system approach to radically disrupt the structural drivers of overweight and obesity at both national and community levels, as well as within households and schools," said Professor Gakidou. "Federal policymakers must look beyond short-term political goals to target policy interventions not just within the health sector, for example ensuring all children have access to nutritious primary school meals and that there is greater regulation of junk food marketing." She added: "Above all, reversing the US obesity epidemic will rely on the government supporting programmes that increase levels of physical activity, such as investing in safe and walkable neighbourhoods, guaranteeing the availability of healthy food to children and adolescents, regulating the food and marketing industries, and achieving environmentally sustainable food systems." The authors note some important limitations, including that while the study uses the best available data, predictions are constrained by the quality and availability of data, and for that reason, they were unable to estimate the prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity at the state level. They also note that the definition of overweight and obesity is based on BMI, which might not account for variations in body structure across the population, and that they did not examine racial and ethnic disparities in obesity. Finally, past trends are not always predictive of what will happen in the future, and some factors, like the recent surge in the use of GLP-1 anti-obesity medications could alter the longer-term forecasting trends of overweight and obesity. Writing in a linked Comment, Professor Syvain Sebert from the University of Oulu in Finland (who was not involved with the study) said: "A multifaceted, whole-system approach is needed to address the overweight and obesity crisis, with the challenge that it has now surpassed every known level of epidemic progression. Extensive collaboration is needed across all health sectors, and both public and personalised health approaches need to be combined to confront and address the challenge together. There is great hope in new therapeutic approaches, such as GLP-1 analogues, for more effective and well tolerated treatments for overweight and obesity; however, these treatments should not be seen as a reason to abandon prevention efforts. Health-care systems cannot manage the epidemic solely through life-long secondary prevention policiesHopefully this excellent new report will find its way onto the global policy agenda to aid in prevention efforts for all causes identified and all potential consequences of the obesity crisis." KYODO NEWS - Nov 17, 2024 - 22:38 | All, Japan Former Hyogo Gov. Motohiko Saito secured reelection in Sunday's gubernatorial election in western Japan, held after he lost his position over power abuse accusations, defeating former Amagasaki Mayor Kazumi Inamura. The race, contested by a record seven candidates, took place after Saito, 47, faced a no-confidence motion unanimously adopted by the prefectural assembly in late September. He automatically lost his position after neither dissolving the assembly nor resigning. "I will do my best with gratitude and humility in mind," Saito told his supporters at his election campaign office. "I will run the prefectural government with an all-Hyogo approach." During her election campaign, the 52-year-old Inamura, who ran as an independent, emphasized the need to revamp the administration thrown into confusion by the power abuse accusations scandal surrounding Saito. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's Liberal Democratic Party, which had backed Saito in the 2021 gubernatorial race, chose not to field its own candidate. Some LDP assembly members, along with opposition parties, supported Inamura, who served as mayor of Amagasaki in the same prefecture for 12 years starting in 2010. Saito came under fire after a senior official, who apparently died by suicide, released a document in March accusing him of abusing his power, including yelling at staff and compelling local businesses to provide him with gifts. Although the 60-year-old official reported the misconduct to the prefectural government's whistleblower office, he was reprimanded with a three-month suspension after an internal investigation determined that the document contained defamatory claims. The move sparked controversy, prompting the assembly to establish a special committee to review the case in June, but the official was found dead less than two weeks before he was scheduled to testify in July. Other candidates in the gubernatorial race in Hyogo, where the major port city of Kobe is the capital, included a former House of Councillors member backed by Japan's second-largest opposition party and the leader of a small extremist political group. Related coverage: Hyogo Gov. to rerun despite losing job following no-confidence motion Hyogo assembly adopts no-confidence motion vs governor over bullying A groundbreaking new study conducted by the University of South Florida will track young people through 2050 to learn more about the long-term impacts of smartphones, social media and other digital media on individual wellbeing. Though the long-term research will be conducted over the next 25 years, data collected every six months will give ongoing insight to parents, teachers, researchers, health providers and others on the impact of digital media use on children and as they age into adults. We have research from other fields that tracks people across decades, looking at cardiovascular health or work-life balance across the lifespan. We don't have that yet for digital media use and wellness. We know that digital media affect people, especially children, in meaningful and often adverse ways, so it's important to study the same individuals across the lifespan." Justin Martin, the Eleanor Poynter Jamison Chair in Media Ethics & Press Policy at USF St. Petersburg and lead researcher of the study The Life in Media Survey will collect insights and experiences from thousands of 11 to 13-year-olds as they pertain to digital media use. Researchers will then track the same participants over decades, to determine how digital media impacts and changes attitudes, behaviors and health throughout their lives. The survey will cover topics such as social media use and addiction, cyberbullying, news consumption, streaming services, parental controls, media literacy, artificial intelligence and more. Examining responses and patterns over time, researchers will discover possible connections between device ownership and time spent on social media with the prevalence of sleep deprivation, anxiety, depression and other critical wellness indicators. "Experiences during childhood and adolescence can influence health outcomes later in life. This study will help us understand the impact of digital media use on sleep quality and mental health in adolescents, ultimately informing interventions to mitigate any harmful effects," said Chighaf Bakour, a USF associate professor of epidemiology. The USF study differs from previous research on children's media use and wellness. Prior work has mostly focused on smartphone use, social media use and gaming. The USF study measures these things, but also assesses binge-watching, podcast listening, music streaming and other digital habits. A prior study on streaming that Martin coauthored found that binge-watching, an activity often done with others, was correlated with spending more time in-person with friends and family -- not with social isolation. Also, many studies of media use among children focus on the 13-to-17-year-old age range. The USF researchers begin with early adolescents at age 11, when nearly half of children in the U.S. do not yet own a smartphone. Some 1,500 Florida youth will take the survey in November to provide researchers with baseline data. The Harris Poll, a global market research firm that collaborated with the USF team in constructing the questionnaire, is collecting the data and will obtain parental permission before children complete the online survey. Findings and insights from this cohort will be published in a report in the spring of 2025. Informed by the pilot survey, the research team will then start a nationwide, long-term survey for up to 9,000 children in early adolescence. Researchers will survey these children twice a year, once during the school year and again in the summer. "The 11 to 13-year-old range is typically, for now, when children acquire their own personal smartphone but are still pretty new to the world of digital media," said Stephen Song, USF assistant professor in the Department of Journalism & Digital Communication. "This is a good age to begin to track behavior changes that occur over time." Past snapshot research has studied the effects of digital media on everything from political discourse to social development, but no long-term study has tracked digital media use and wellbeing from childhood into adulthood. There are a lot of data, but few conclusive findings, since media and devices can be used in so many different ways, said Wendy Rote, a USF psychology professor and expert on adolescent development. "Let's say kids who spend more time on social media and devices have higher rates of depression, which is what some of the data is telling us. Is it because of the device and media itself, or is it because time spent with digital media means kids have less time for sports, clubs and other socialization activities?" Rote asked. "What you can get from a long-term study is broad patterns and trends of media use by individuals and examine those at different times in their life to pick apart and answer such questions." The research team comprises experts across various disciplines, including journalism, psychology, public health, political science, sociology and communications. USF is also collaborating with the Poynter Institute for Media Studies and its MediaWise initiative, which empowers young people with media literacy skills, including digital and AI literacy. Sean Marcus, the interactive learning designer for MediaWise, worked with the team to ensure survey questions were relevant and understandable for the audience. Since the Life in Media Survey will be conducted twice a year over decades, the scope of change that researchers measure could be vast. "Media and media literacy move at lightning speed, and this study will allow us to move with it," Marcus said. "We are in the midst of a major technological revolution with tools like AI. This research will provide us a frame of reference to understand how young people are living their lives with technology and how changes in technology are impacting them." Vanderbilt University Medical Center is receiving $3.3 million over two years through the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health's (ARPA-H) Sprint for Women's Health for its early-stage research efforts to develop medications designed to suppress premature uterine contractions during pregnancy. ARPA-H's Sprint for Women's Health is designed to address critical unmet challenges in women's health, champion transformative innovations, and tackle health conditions that uniquely or disproportionately affect women. Jennifer Herington, PhD, assistant professor of Pediatrics and Pharmacology, and Todd Giorgio, PhD, professor of Biomedical Engineering, joined forces four years ago to begin developing innovative uterine-targeted delivery systems for therapeutics known as tocolytics, which are medications designed to suppress premature uterine contractions during pregnancy. The heartbreak and costs of preterm birth are enormous. Preterm birth is the leading cause of neonatal and child deaths under the age of 5, and survivors of preterm birth may face lifelong health challenges." Jennifer Herington, PhD, Assistant Professor of Pediatrics and Pharmacology Every year, approximately 15 million pregnancies worldwide end prematurely, before 37 weeks of gestation. The United States has one of the highest rates of preterm births among high-resource countries, with 1 in every 10 women delivering prematurely. The estimated societal economic loss in the U.S. is approximately $25 billion, which includes medical costs, educational expenses and lost productivity. The current standard of care limits the use of tocolytic agents to just 24-72 hours because of potential side effects for both the mother and the fetus. However, many women may benefit from weeks of tocolysis, rather than just days, to prolong their pregnancies and allow crucial development of significant organs, such as the brain, lungs and liver. According to Herington, the approach of targeting medication directly to the uterus aims to improve maternal and fetal safety, allowing for the long-term use of existing tocolytics. "We are dedicated to developing novel uterine-targeted tocolytic delivery systems that can be used at home," Giorgio said. "This method is particularly beneficial for low-resource settings and ideally suited for the long-term management of preterm labor, potentially enabling patients to receive treatment at home without the need for regular visits to a healthcare facility." Herington and Giorgio have partnered with DavosPharma to develop drug conjugates that serve as a uterine-targeted tocolytic delivery system. DavosPharma's strategic partner, Kemp Proteins, will be responsible for delivering key biological components for the therapeutic. Drug conjugates are an advanced approach for delivering cytotoxic agents directly to tumors. This targeted approach helps reduce side effects and enhances treatment responses compared to conventional chemotherapy. Herington and Giorgio's project will be the first to apply drug conjugates in the field of obstetrics. "I am so proud of the work that Drs. Herington and Giorgio are doing to address the critical needs in prevention of preterm birth," said J Newton, MD, PhD, FACOG, vice chair of Clinical Obstetrics and collaborator on this project. "These are highly innovative and extremely talented scientists who are needed to develop new treatments for preterm labor." Delhi to Have 106 Additional Buses, 60 Extra Trips by Metro Trains to Combat Air Pollution Published By : PTI Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 13:27 IST Delhi Environment Minister, addressing a press conference said that the AQI, which has consistently crossed hazardous levels, led to the enforcement of GRAP-3. Representational image. (File photo) Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Friday said an additional 106 cluster buses would ply in the city while metro trains would make 60 extra trips in view of GRAP-3 measures imposed due to worsening air quality. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has imposed GRAP 3 measures as the national capital recorded the worst pollution levels in the country, with the air quality remaining in the severe" category for two consecutive days. related stories On Friday the citys air quality was in the severe category with an AQI of 411 at 9 am. Delhi Environment Minister, addressing a press conference said that the Air Quality Index (AQI), which has consistently crossed hazardous levels, led to the enforcement of GRAP-3. We are working to make GRAP-3 more effective in Delhi," the minister said, adding that a meeting was held with officials from MCD, PWD, transport, DTC, metro, and education departments to review and implement urgent measures. As part of the action plan, the Delhi government has banned the entry of non-CNG inter-state buses into the city. Only electric buses and those running on CNG will be allowed entry. In addition, BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers have been prohibited, Rai said. To ensure enforcement, the transport department has deployed 84 teams, with an additional 280 transport police personnel, to monitor violations. A fine of Rs. 20,000 will be imposed for any breaches of the new rules. The minister highlighted that to reduce vehicular pollution, 106 new cluster bus services have been introduced. Among these, 40 buses have been specifically launched for government employees residing in various parts of the city to discourage the use of private vehicles. The routes will include key areas such as Nehru Place, Rohini, Dwarka, Janakpuri, Shahdara and others. The GRAP for Delhi-NCR is divided into four stages of air quality Stage 1 for poor" Air Quality Index (AQI) ranging between 201 and 300, Stage 2 for very poor" AQI of 301-400, Stage 3 for severe" AQI of 401-450 and Stage 4 for severe plus" AQI more than 450. Curbs under Stage III include a ban on non-essential construction and demolition and closure of stone crushers and mining activities in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR). Under the Stage-IV restrictions of GRAP, all inter-state buses from NCR states except electric vehicles, CNG vehicles and BS-VI diesel buses-will be prohibited from entering Delhi, alongside a stringent ban on construction and demolition activities, suspension of mining-related activities, consideration of shifting to online classes for students up to Class V and daily water sprinkling on major roads. To further reduce traffic emissions, metro services will increase by 60 additional trips, and road cleaning efforts will be enhanced with 65 dust suppression machines deployed by the MCD. Moreover, 200 mobile anti-smog guns will be used in three shifts for water sprinkling on roads, with designated drivers in each shift to ensure continuous operations. Meanwhile, the Delhi government is also taking steps to regulate construction activities, banning private construction and demolition works, and restricting non-essential work. Public and government services, however, will continue as usual, Rai said. Addressing the media, the minister urged residents to use a cycle for short distances, rely on public transport, carpool, and work from home whenever possible to help reduce pollution levels. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all If the air quality deteriorates further, the minister mentioned that emergency measures, including artificial rain, would be considered. We will seek support from the Centre if required," he added. . Location : Delhi, India First Published: November 17, 2024, 13:27 IST Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder Unlocks New Milestone, Achieves 1 Lakh sales Figures Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 15:58 IST Currently, the SUV is witnessing a waiting period of almost 2 months on the ICE version, while the CNG model has a maximum waiting period of eight weeks. Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder. (Photo: Toyota) Urban Cruiser Hyryder has been one of the highest-selling products from Toyotas overall lineup. The model again proved itself by achieving the 1 lakh unit mark this year. The news has been confirmed by the brand via official release. It says that the new milestone has been unlocked by the SUV, and emerged as one of the dominant competitors in the segment. related stories Price Range Ever since Urban Cruiser Hyryder was launched in India, it has received an overwhelming response from customers. The rebadged version of the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara can be purchased at the starting at Rs 11.14 lakh (ex-showroom). It is available in both petrol and strong hybrid powertrain options. To attract the masses, the company has been offering the Hyryder in a factory-fitted CNG kit as well. It comes in two variants, with a sticker price of Rs 13.71 lakh (ex-showroom). Powertrain The tech-loaded Urban Cruiser Hyryder in strong-hybrid uses a 1.5-litre petrol engine. The unit generates an impressive power of 91 bhp and 122 Nm of peak torque. The power source is complimented by an electric motor, which generates an output of 78 bhp and 141 Nm. The SUV also gets a 1.5-litre K-series mild-hybrid unit. This makes a decent power of 103 bhp and 137 Nm of peak torque. Waiting Period Currently, the SUV is witnessing a waiting period of almost 2 months on the ICE version, while the CNG model has a maximum waiting period of eight weeks. In case you are interested, the vehicle can be booked by visiting the companys authorised showroom nationwide. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all First Published: November 17, 2024, 15:53 IST AIIMS INI CET January 2025 Result Announced at aiimsexams.ac.in, How To Check? Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 12:28 IST Those who clear the AIIMS INI CET 2025 will get admission to prestigious medical institutions like AIIMS, JIPMER Puducherry, PGIMER Chandigarh, NIMHANS Bengaluru and SCTIMST Trivandrum. Candidates can download their results from the official AIIMS exam portal at aiimsexams.ac.in (Representational/ PTI Photo) The results for the AIIMS INI CET January 2025 have been released on the official website, aiimsexams.ac.in. To access the AIIMS INI CET 2025 results, students will have to use their login credentials, such as their registration number and date of birth. This entrance test is held biannually for admission to postgraduate courses such as MD, MS, DM, MCH, and MDS at Institutes of National Importance for Medical Education. Steps to Download AIIMS INI CET January 2025 Result: related stories Step 1: The first step is to visit the official website of AIIMS, aiimsexams.ac.in. Step 2: Then, select the AIIMS INI CET result link on the homepage. Step 3: Candidates are required to click on the INI CET January 2025 session result link. Step 4: After clicking the link, the INI CET January 2025 result will be displayed on the users screen. Step 5: Students are then required to download the result. They can also take a printout for future reference. If two or more candidates get equal marks in the INI CET, then their rank will be decided based on the following criteria in sequence: Candidate who has fewer negative marks. Someone who is older. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The AIIMS INI CET 2025 exam was scheduled for November 10, 2024, in a computer-based test (CBT) format. This examination for the January 2025 session featured 200 objective-type questions, including both single correct-choice and multiple correct-choice questions. Candidates are awarded one mark for each correct answer, and one-third of a mark is deducted for each incorrect answer. The total duration of the INI-CET January 2025 exam is three hours. The INI-CET January 2025 is being conducted to facilitate admissions into various postgraduate courses, including MD, MS, M.Ch. (6 years), DM (6 years), and MDS. This exam will provide entry into programmes offered by AIIMS, New Delhi, as well as other esteemed institutions such as JIPMER Puducherry, NIMHANS Bengaluru, PGIMER Chandigarh, and SCTIMST Trivandrum for the January 2025 academic session. First Published: November 17, 2024, 11:47 IST From IIT Delhi To Uttarakhand Police, List Of Govt Jobs To Apply For This Week Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 17:41 IST If you want to work for the government, dont worry, weve got you covered. Heres a list of the top government-recruited organisations that are actively hiring. In case your application is rejected, the recruitment board will share reasons supporting their decision, the RRB said (Representative image/File) Getting a government job isnt simple and finding one that matches your abilities and qualifications can be even harder. If you want to work for the government, dont worry, weve got you covered. Heres a list of the top government-recruited organisations that are actively hiring. AAI Recruitment For 90 Apprentice Posts related stories The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has begun accepting applications for 90 apprenticeship posts in various fields. Interested candidates should apply online at apprenticeshipindia.gov.in before Wednesday, November 20. Apprentices will be trained at selected airports or companies, and their postings will predominantly be in the North Eastern Region, based on their registration information. Once assigned, the training location will not change. The percentage of marks obtained in the qualifying examination will be used to select candidates. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted via their registered email addresses and invited to an interview and document verificationread more ITBP Recruitment 2024 The Indo-Tibetan Border Police Force (ITBP) has started the online registration process for the positions of Assistant Sub Inspector, Head Constable, and Constable under Group C (Non-Gazetted, Non-Ministerial) category. If you have completed the Class 12 exam and are looking for a government career, this could be an excellent option. Interested candidates should apply through the official ITBP website at itbpolice.nic.in. Candidates can submit their applications by November 26, 2024. This recruitment campaign will fill a total of 20 vacancies. The selected individuals will be assigned to Pay Matrix Levels 3, 4, and 5, as per the 7th Pay Commissionread more SIDBI Recruitment For 72 Grade A & B Vacancies The Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has started taking applications for the Recruitment of Officers in Grades A and B General and Specialist Stream 2024. Candidates can apply at sidbi.in until December 2, 2024. Through this recruitment campaign, the SIDBI will fill 72 Grade A and Grade B positions in the institution. The application fee for SC, ST, and PwBD applicants is Rs 175; for other categories, it is Rs 1,100read more Delhi Metro Announces Job Openings For Manager And Assistant Manager Positions The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced an exceptional chance for job candidates looking for a government position in Delhi Metro. Candidates can submit their applications at delhimetrorail.com until December 13. The vacancies at DMRC are open for the positions of Manager and Assistant Manager. Candidates must have a B.E. or B.Tech. (Civil) degree from a recognised university, with at least 60 per cent marks or an equivalent CGPA. The recruitment procedure includes a personal interview, which can be conducted online or in person, followed by a medical fitness testread more IIT Delhi Recruitment For English Language Instructors The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi is now accepting applications for the role of English Language Instructor. The official IIT Delhi Recruitment 2024 release states that there are seven available posts. The applicants performance during the interview will determine their selection. Any applicant who fits the qualifications for these posts can apply by visiting IIT Delhis official website at home.iitd.ac.in. Candidates must apply by November 26 at the latest if they wish to work on these positions. Candidates for the position of English language instructor must have a first-class M.A. in English or comparable disciplines, as well as a Ph.D. in English and related fieldsread more top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Uttarakhand Police Recruitment For 2,000 Constable Posts The Uttarakhand Subordinate Service Selection Commission (UKSSSC) has started the registration process for the Group C Uttarakhand District Police Constable (Male) and Constable PAC/IRB (Male) exam 2024. Candidates can apply via the official website at sssc.uk.gov.in until November 29. This recruiting effort intends to fill 2,000 empty Constable positions across the state. These comprise 1,600 for Uttarakhand District Police Constable (Male) and 400 for Constable PAC/IRB (Male). To apply for the roles listed, individuals must be between the ages of 18 and 22 and have passed the Intermediate Examination or an equivalent qualificationread more First Published: November 17, 2024, 17:41 IST International Students' Day 2024: History, Significance, Quotes & Wishes Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 06:00 IST International Students Day is commemorated in memory of the bravery of thousands of student activists in Prague, during the Nazi attack, who fought for the right to higher education. International Students Day is observed on November 17. (Image: Shutterstock) International Students Day is observed on November 17. The day is commemorated in memory of the bravery of thousands of student activists in Prague, during the Nazi attack, who fought for the right to higher education. The Nazi forces occupied the Czech Republic on November 17, 1939 and executed nine protesters without trial. They also detained more than 1,200 students and sent them to concentration camps. Only a few survived in the camp. To mark this loss of 1,200 University of Prague students lives, the first observance was held at Londons International Students Council in 1941. It was this moment that university students decided to introduce the day as International Students Day. related stories International Students Day Quotes Learning is a continuous process; no one can stop you until you stop learning."Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today."Malcolm X The mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be ignited."Plutarch The beautiful thing about learning is that nobody can take it away from you."B.B. King Go into the world and do well. But more importantly, go into the world and do good."Minor Myers Jr Educate a boy, and you educate an individual. Educate a girl, and you educate a community." African Proverb The price of success is hard work, dedication to the job at hand, and the determination that whether we win or lose, we have applied the best of ourselves to the task at hand."Vince Lombardi Excellence happens not by accident, but as a result of constant and continuous improvement."Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Education is the most powerful weapon, which you can use to change the world."Nelson Mandela Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever." Mahatma Gandhi International Students Day Wishes Happy International Students Day to my brightest minds. I wish you a life where you become successful, wealthy and play leadership roles in many aspects of your profession. Best of luck to you for your bright future and career! I believe you all can exceed the Greatest heights! Happy International Students Day to all! You have all it takes to be successful. Keep making me proud of you. Happy students day. Till we are living, we are learning. That makes us all students our entire lives. Happy International Students Day to everyone. Be your own inspiration. Be your own role model. Very best wishes to you on this students day. Studying is not an easy task, but once you learn to enjoy it, you will be able to achieve great things because you all have the potential to succeed. Happy Students Day. Failure is the pillar to success, so even when you fail, dont give up and keep studying and working hard. You will succeed one day for sure. Happy International Students Day. Everything can be lost or stolen except your knowledge and wisdom. Happy International Students Day! Dont think about mistakes, focus on your efforts. This is the biggest thing a student does. Lots of wishes on International Students Day! Dream a lot. Work even harder. Then one day, all your dreams will transform into reality. Happy International Students Day! International Students Day: Messages To Share Life is all about new opportunities and chances. You just have to know how to grab them at the right moment. All the best wishes on this day. I wish you all a happy student day. I hope and pray that you all achieve everything you set out to do. Warm wishes to you on International Students Day. You have infinite potential, even if you dont realise it. When you look back on your life, there are a few things you are always going to miss. One of those things is to live life as a student. No matter how boring it looks now, it will be the most wonderful phase of life. Happy International Students Day! Be your own sunshine, make yourself worthy of every success. Always preserve in your heart the desire to learn. Enjoy the Students Day to the fullest. Each day, each effort will bring you closer to your goals. Keep learning, keep working hard and keep smiling every day to enjoy the fruits of your efforts in life. Best wishes on International Students Day. Being a student is great as there are so many new things in the world to learn about. Happy International Students Day to you! There is no shortcut to success and therefore, you must never compromise on your dedication. Happy International Students Day to you! Students are the future and backbone of any society. You have a big responsibility on your shoulders. Understand it well and play your role faithfully. Happy International Students Day! Student life is all about exploring new ideas and working on them to bring inventions. Happy International Students Day! International Students Day: History When Adolf Hitler came to power in 1933, the Third Reich started aggressive claims over territories outside Germanys borders, according to consolidated reports. In 1938, the Nazis first took over Austria, Hitlers home country. Then, they forced Czechoslovakia to surrender half of its territories. Germany, on the other hand, occupied the Czech regions, forcing Slovakia to divide into a satellite state. ALSO READ: Why APJ Abdul Kalams Birth Anniversary is Celebrated as World Students Day? In 1939, the Medical Faculty students at Charles University, Prague conducted a meeting to commemorate the formation of an independent Czechoslovak Republic. However, the Nazis brutally suppressed the gathering, resulting in labourer Vaclav Sedlacek and student Jan Opletals deaths. Consequently, the students formed an anti-Nazi demonstration and staged a protest. In response, the Nazi authorities took severe measures, closing all Czech universities, detaining over 1,200 students, and sending them to Sachsenhausen and other concentration camps. On November 17, they also killed nine professors and students without a trial. Throughout 1941, efforts were made to persuade students in other countries to commemorate November 17 as a day of remembrance, honouring and encouraging the struggle for freedom and democracy globally as well as resistance against the Nazis. Later, the NUS Vice President Lena Chivers, Zink, Palecek, and Kavan conducted the majority of these negotiations, and ultimately fourteen nations came to a consensus and signed the ensuing declaration. International Students Day: Significance Even today, several nations struggle with the right to education and peaceful protest. With the aim to protect the rights of the youth, International Students Day is commemorated by students and educational institutions worldwide. This not only includes the right to education but also making them understand the importance of raising their voices for their rights. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all International Students Day serves as an opportunity to students when they meet and organise events in their universities, insisting on supporting multiculturalism and their right to education. Some students also share information on social media to let others know about the power of students. First Published: November 17, 2024, 06:00 IST In Big Jolt To Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi Minister Kailash Gahlot Quits AAP Ahead Of Elections Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Ashesh Mallick Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 14:48 IST Embarrassing, awkward controversies, no option: AAP says Gahlot was under CBI-ED pressure; BJP questions Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi government Kailash Gahlot and Arvind Kejriwal (PTI Image) Delhi minister Kailash Gahlot on Sunday resigned from the ministry and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), stating that he had no option" but to do so amid the embarrassing and awkward controversies" and the failure of the Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi government to fulfil the promises made to citizens. The transport minister has been a part of Kejriwals government since 2015. He posted the two resignations from the party and from the cabinet on the social media platform X. related stories In his letter to Kejriwal issued on Sunday, Gahlot thanked the former chief minister for giving him the honour of serving and representing the people of Delhi as an MLA and a minister. I had started my political journey with the commitment to serve the people of Delhi and I want to continue doing that. Which is why, I find myself left with no option but to step away from AAP and hence I resign from primary membership of Aam Aadmi Party," he wrote. CITES YAMUNA, SHEESH MAHAL Take for example the Yamuna, which we had promised to transform into a clean river, but never got around to doing it," said Gahlot, adding that the Yamuna river is perhaps even more polluted than before. The Najafgarh MLA went on to say that there are many embarrassing and awkward controversies" such as the Sheesh Mahal, which are now making everyone doubt whether they still believe in being the Aam Aadmi. Another painful point has been the fact that instead of fighting for peoples rights we have increasingly only been fighting for our own political agenda. This has severely crippled our ability to even deliver basic services to the people of Delhi," he said. THE CHALLENGES AHEAD Gahlot said it was obvious that real progress for Delhi cannot happen if the Delhi government spends a majority of its time fighting with the centre. However, at the same time, I also want to share with you that today the Aam Aadmi Party faces grave challenges. Challenges from within, to the very values that brought us together to AAP. Political ambitions have overtaken our commitment towards people, leaving many promises unfulfilled," the letter said. The assembly polls are due in Delhi in the next few weeks. The term of the current assembly will end in February 2025. Gahlots exit comes weeks after party Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal turned rebel, although she remains an MP from the party. AAPS RESPONSE While Gahlots response was awaited, AAP MLA Durgesh Pathak said that Gahlot has to go to the BJP as he was facing raids from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and income tax (I-T) department. In the past few months, Kailash ji was facing raids from the ED and I-T almost every day. He had no other option left. He had to go to the BJP. This is clear that the BJP is losing the elections in Delhi. Today, they dont have any other issue. They are contesting the elections in Delhi with the help of ED-CBI," Pathak said. Echoing the same sentiments, AAP MP Sanjay Singh said, The BJP has succeeded in its tactics and I feel Kailash Gahlot was under a lot of pressure from ED and IT." On the various allegations leveled by the Najafgarh MLA, Singh said it was a script of the BJP that he is using. The way the BJP prepared the script and the kind of pressure Gahlot was under, he had to say these things," Singh added. Gahlot has not announced yet any plan to join the BJP. BJP RAISES QUESTIONS ON AAP BJP leader Kapil Mishra welcomed the resignation and said that Gahlots remarks in the letter to Kejriwal raise serious questions about the AAP and Delhi government. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all #WATCH | On the resignation of Delhi minister and AAP leader Kailash Gahlot, Delhi BJP President Virendraa Sachdeva says Kailash Gahlot has shown the mirror to Arvind Kejriwal and told him that he does not want to be a part of Arvind Kejriwal and his lootera gangKailash pic.twitter.com/EPvNX6c9Pl ANI (@ANI) November 17, 2024 Kailash Gahlots resignation is a welcome step and what he wrote in the letter is serious. The sitting minister is saying that due to Arvind Kejriwals corruption, staying in government is getting impossible. This is the situation in every street of Delhi where AAPs workers are leaving the party," Mishra said in a video. First Published: November 17, 2024, 12:31 IST ECI Directs Jharkhand BJP To Remove 'Misleading' Video, Seeks Explanation For MCC Violation Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: November 18, 2024, 10:14 IST EC has also sought an explanation from the state BJP for the alleged violation of the provisions of the model code of conduct by posting the video. The Election Commission of India. Taking note of a video advertisement from the Jharkhand BJP, the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Sunday directed the State Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) to immediately ask the party to take down the said post from its official social media platforms. Additionally, the ECI issued a notice to the party to explain the alleged violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) in the post. The poll body took this action following complaints from the Indian National Congress (INC) and the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) regarding a misleading and malicious video" posted by BJP Jharkhand on Saturday, November 16. related stories The ECIs letter to the state CEO noted that the video was shared not only on X but also on the Facebook account of the Jharkhand BJP. In their complaint, the JMM and INC alleged that this social media post contains a communal, malicious, and misleading video with the caption *Poore Jharkhand ka kaya palat kar denge*." They claimed that the post violated the provisions of the MCC, according to the ECI. Upon reviewing the complaint, the ECI stated that the social media post appeared to prima facie violate the MCC. It is therefore directed to take immediate action as per existing laws and procedures. Thereafter, the concerned social media platforms should be instructed, through the designated authority in the State of Jharkhand under Section 79(3)(h) of the IT Act, to take down the referred posts immediately," the poll body stated. The ECI also directed the state CEO to serve a notice to BJP Jharkhand, requiring them to explain the alleged violation of MCC provisions. The party may be directed to immediately take down the said post and any related content from social media and any other form of media," the letter stated, adding that an action-taken report should be submitted to the Commission at the earliest. The JMM and INC, in their complaint to the ECI on Sunday, objected to the video, describing it as misleading and divisive. The video allegedly depicted a house bearing a JMM banner and a poster featuring a figure resembling Chief Minister Hemant Soren, alongside the caption poore Jharkhand ka kaya palat kar denge." The video also showed hundreds of people from a particular community entering the house unannounced with the intent to reside there forcefully. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The complainants claimed that the video was rife with baseless allegations and falsehoods, aimed at influencing voters by fostering hatred and enmity against the JMM and its leaders. The first phase of polling in Jharkhand has already concluded, while the second and final phase is scheduled for November 20. The counting of votes will take place on November 23. First Published: November 17, 2024, 23:28 IST Mob Attacks Navneet Rana's Rally In Maharashtra, BJP Leader Gives Police Deadline For Arrest Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 13:36 IST The incident took place on Saturday night when Navneet Rana was campaigning in Amravati. BJP leader Navneet Rana (CNN-News18) A mob allegedly threw chairs and raised threat slogans at a rally by BJP leader and former MP Navneet Rana at Amravati in Maharashtra on Saturday, officials said. The miscreants disrupted the event, vandalised chairs, and caused tension. The police registered a case based on Ranas complaint and are investigating the incident. related stories The incident took place last evening in the Khallar village when Rana was campaigning for the BJP candidate from the Daryapur Assembly constituency, Ramesh Bundile. #BreakingNews | Chairs were thrown and threat slogans raised as a mob attacked a rally by BJP leader and former MP Navneet Rana at Maharashtras Amravati@sompura_preeti shares details @Elizasherine | #MaharashtraAssembly pic.twitter.com/hM9LXRqCxy News18 (@CNNnews18) November 17, 2024 What Did The Police Say? Inspector Crime Branch Rural Amravati, Kiran Wankhade said that a dispute broke out between two groups during the rally, however, the situation was later brought under control. During the rally, a dispute broke out between two groups. We have registered a case on the complaint of Navneet Rana. The situation is now under control. A police checkpoint has been set up in the village. We request the citizens to not believe in any kind of rumours. Further investigation is underway" Wankhade said. Navneet Rana Gives Cops Deadline For Arrest Rana gave the police a deadline to make arrests in connection with the incident. We have filed a complaint. If no one is arrested soon, the whole Hindu community of Amravati will gather here," she said. Detailing the incident, she said that they were campaigning peacefully in Khallar when some people started making lewd gestures and also started raising religious slogans. When our party supporters asked them not to use slang for me, they started throwing chairs," she alleged. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all She accused the Uddhav Thackeray faction of Shiv Sena of orchestrating the chaos at her rally. I was addressing the public meeting very peacefully. People started hooting and raising religious slogans I urged everyone to stay calm and explained that our only aim is to ensure a smooth and peaceful conduct of elections in Maharashtra The differently-abled people in the meeting would have been the most affected had there been any kind of nuisance It all started at 5 pm when the party workers started setting up the stage after taking all necessary permissions Taluka president of Uddhav Thackerays party lives in the village, and it was all done by his people If they give us one, they will get two in return, in the same language that they understand," she said. Location : Amravati, India First Published: November 17, 2024, 11:12 IST By Nazuna Nagai, KYODO NEWS - Nov 17, 2024 - 11:09 | Arts, Feature, All, Japan Five years after fire ravaged Okinawa's iconic Shuri Castle, hopes for a full recovery in visitor numbers at the World Heritage site are growing in line with the steadily progressing reconstruction work. Once the political and cultural center of the Ryukyu Kingdom (1429-1879), Shuri Castle has burned down five times due to accidents or wartime shelling since its construction which is believed to have been completed around the 14th century. The latest calamity to befall the castle in the prefectural capital of Naha began in the early hours of Oct. 31, 2019. The main temple and six buildings were destroyed before the blaze was fully contained about 11 hours later. The fire severely hit tourism in Okinawa, a situation worsened by the coronavirus pandemic which followed soon after. The castle in the southern island prefecture has seen visitor numbers climbing steadily back to more than half of the pre-fire level thanks to efforts to open part of the restoration work to the public. In anticipation of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II next year, the prefectural government is pushing efforts to attract tourists. One principal goal is to open up in 2025 or later a bunker that housed a Japanese military headquarters beneath the castle. The reconstruction work of Shuri Castle appears to be nearing its culmination. In mid-September, as craftsmen looked on, wooden boards that decorate the perimeter of the Ryukyu King's throne were brought into the warehouse next to its main temple. The sculptures, called "uchinorigakugi," comprise three boards, on which dragons and other decorations have been crafted, and measure about 14 meters in width when connected. They have features unique to the Ryukyu region, including Okinawa, which was under the strong influence of China until it was annexed by Japan in 1879. "It was difficult to achieve the right balance since I usually create dragons with three fingers, while the Ryukyu dragons have four," said Takao Shimomura, 72, the sculptor of the works who hails from Nagasaki Prefecture in Kyushu, one of Japan's four main islands located northeast of Okinawa. Earlier in July, roof tiling began on the main building with some 60,000 red Ryukyu tiles, scheduled for completion by yearend. The roof was firmly reinforced with stucco and other materials with thought given to making it robust enough to survive Okinawa's frequent typhoons. According to the prefectural government, the gable decorations on the main temple's front facade and the "great dragon" pillars to be erected in the plaza are expected to be delivered in January next year and sometime in 2026, respectively. The number of visitors to Shuri Castle Park, including those to free-to-access zones, totaled 2.8 million in fiscal 2018 before the fire, according to the Japanese central government's Okinawa General Bureau of the Cabinet Office. After the blaze, the number plunged to 330,000 in fiscal 2020 and remained low in fiscal 2021 and 2022 amid the pandemic. In an attempt to increase numbers, the Okinawa government opened part of the reconstruction work to the public in 2023. It created scaffolding and a temporary roof to protect the main building from the weather, allowing visitors to see construction efforts through windows. "It's interesting that the Ryukyu tiles are different from the tiles used in Honshu," a 41-year-old woman from Ibaraki Prefecture, northeast of Tokyo, who works in the construction industry, said, referring to the largest of Japan's main islands. "I'm glad I could get up close to see the progress of reconstruction." In addition to general visitors, students on field trips and tourists from visiting cruise ships are returning to Shuri Castle Park, with the number rebounding to around 1.44 million in fiscal 2023 and expected to rise further in the current fiscal year. Before the 2019 catastrophe, the castle was last destroyed during the Battle of Okinawa which started following the U.S. military's 1945 landing on Okinawa's main island. The structure was rebuilt in 1992. In the former bunker under the castle which housed the command of the Japanese imperial forces' 32nd army headquarters, the installation of safety measures to protect visitors from falling rock and debris and other accidents is underway. The prefectural government hopes to attract tourists to both the rebuilt castle and the underground former command center. Kurayoshi Takara, professor emeritus of Ryukyu history at the University of the Ryukyus and chairman of the national technical review committee for reconstruction, expressed optimism that the rebuilding will make the site more popular than ever. "I hope when the reconstruction work is completed that lots of people will understand the aesthetic sense and traditional craftsmanship of the Ryukyu Kingdom and Okinawan's memory of the war and hopes for peace." Related coverage: UNESCO to add Japan sake-brewing to intangible heritage list Japan's soy sauce exports in 2023 top 10 bil. yen amid washoku boom FEATURE: London school opens to train chefs in authentic 'washoku' cuisine Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 22:05 IST Assembly Elections 2024 LIVE Updates: With less than a week remaining for voting, the campaigning has been intensified for Maharashtra and Jharkhand legislative assembly elections. Earlier on Saturday, taking potshots at the Congress, Amit Shah claimed that Rahul Gandhi believes in flying abroad after making promises, while it is only the BJP that fulfils what its guarantees. Addressing a rally at Madhupur in Deoghar district, the Union Home Minister said while terrorists not only attacked India but also enjoyed biryani after killing people during UPA rule, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wiped out terrorists through surgical and air strikes. With less than a week remaining, voting for the 288-member Maharashtra Legislative Assembly will take place in a single phase on 20 November. Jharkhand completed the first phase of polling in 43 constituencies on 13 November, with the second phase scheduled for 20 November in the remaining 38 constituencies. Votes will be counted on 23 November. 'Real Issues, Real Hindutva': Uddhav Thackeray On Facing Criticism Over His Stance Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 17:06 IST Dismissing the allegations by the ruling Mahayuti, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray called them a distraction from the pressing issues in poll-bound Maharashtra Former Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray highlighted his vision for addressing farmer issues, unemployment, womens safety, and the exodus of industries. (Image: PTI/File) Former Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray has said those who claimed he had forgotten Hindutva should first take care of the real issues" of the state, including giving fair prices for soybean to farmers and bringing them out of distress. Those who claim I have forgotten Hindutva should first take care of the real issues in Maharashtra. Give farmers fair prices for soybean, make them debt-free, create jobs for the youth, and ensure safety for women. That is the real Hindutva," he told News18 in an exclusive interview in which he responded strongly to criticism from the opposition regarding his stance on Hindutva. related stories Dismissing these allegations, Thackeray called them a distraction from the pressing issues in poll-bound Maharashtra. He also highlighted his vision for addressing the farmer issues, unemployment, womens safety, and the exodus of industries from the state. He criticised the ruling Mahayuti regime for failing to stabilise prices for soybean. Our MVA (Maha Vikas Aghadi) government will ensure a good price for soybean and support farmers in distress. We will not allow rates to drop further," he said with the state going to polls on November 20. Thackeray further said his government will directly engage with farmers to address their concerns. We will speak with the farmers, understand their needs, and provide fair rates for soybean in Maharashtra. Farmers are the backbone of our state, and their well-being will always be our priority," he said. He expressed his disapproval of the state governments Ladki Bahin scheme, which provides financial assistance to women. He described it as superficial and ineffective in addressing the real needs of women. There is no brother-sister relationship in this scheme. By giving women token money, they think theyve empowered them. Which woman would like that? Women need security and jobs, not charity," he added. The Shiv Sena (UBT) chiefs comments seemed to reflect a growing sentiment that the scheme has failed to address structural issues faced by women in the state. He stressed on his commitment to reversing the migration of industries from Maharashtra to other states, particularly Gujarat. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Businesses that have moved out of Maharashtra will be brought back. We will ensure no more industries leave the state," he said. He said he is concerned over loss of jobs and economic opportunities in Maharashtra, saying: The people of Maharashtra dont want free money; they want employment. It is unacceptable that all jobs and industries are going to Gujarat. We will stop this trend and bring industries back to our state." First Published: November 17, 2024, 17:06 IST Mahayuti Or MVA: Who Will Get The Slum-Shine Moment In Dharavi? Maharashtra Polls Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Manjiri Joshi Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 19:57 IST News18 navigated the lanes crying for better infrastructural facilities to gauge the pulse. At the core of the political tug-of-war is the Dharavi revamp Dharavi, like the rest of Mumbai, is a melting pot of cultures. (News18) Its a maze, yet there is an order in the oldest and largest slum in Asia. Dharavi is no stranger to those who know Mumbai a topic of many movies, tales and now deep politics in the battle for the Maharashtra polls. At the core of the political tug-of-war is the redevelopment project. Many Dharavi residents worry that this project will snatch their homes. related stories The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) has propped up the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) slogan of batenge toh katenge as the latters attempt to polarise. The MVA is showcasing Dharavi as the battleground which the BJP will use to implement their mission to eliminate the minorities". , , pic.twitter.com/bMiUGU565G Dr. Jyoti Eknath Gaikwad (@DrJyotiEGaikwad) November 17, 2024 For example, with less than 48 hours left to go for campaigning to end in the state, the Congress released the Mumbai Nama brochure. Under the header of transforming slums", the Congress promises the creation of an export-oriented production zone and that the redevelopment will have to respect the wishes of the residents. News18 navigated the small packed lanes crying for better infrastructural facilities to get the pulse of the residents. Dharavi, like the rest of Mumbai, is a melting pot of cultures. While the population primarily includes minorities, there are several Tamil- and Telugu-speaking people who have settled here. Alongside biryani shops are south Indian coffee and dosas being prepared and sold briskly. Says Anna, We want development. I have been staying here for 23 years and seen so many politicians come and go. All made empty promises. Why should Dharavi be used as an akhada for fights? Why not change our lives?" #WATCH | Nagpur | On Uddhav Thackeray's statement on Adani Group's Dharavi project, Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde says, "Do they know anything except putting a stay on projects and discontinuing them? What else can we expect from MVA? 1-2 lakh people stay in poor conditions in pic.twitter.com/Wf8uc1706V ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2024 A little away, Noorani is preparing parathas for Sunday breakfast, he objects when few say that the project will snatch their homes. What home? We have a toilet used by 20 people. Nobody bothers about the garbage. Maybe if things change here, we will be safer and our lives will be healthier. Our children deserve more." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Dharavi is one of the 10 constituencies of Mumbai. It has traditionally been a Congress bastion, but now the Mahayuti seeks to change things. The Congress has won this seat four times and Jyoti Gaikwad has been pitched from here. The Mahayuti has put up Rajesh Khandare. Vikas or development is the pitch for elections in the state. Dharavi will be put to the test on this plank. First Published: November 17, 2024, 19:52 IST 'In A Way, They Are Slaves': Rahul Gandhi's Remarks On Media At Poll Rally Draw Ire Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 15:14 IST Targeting the media, senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi referred to journalists as "slaves" bound by their dependence on salaries to meet personal needs Congress MP Rahul Gandhi criticised PM Narendra Modi and also turned his focus to the media while giving a public speech on November 16. (Image: Getty/File) Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhis remarks during a poll rally in Maharashtras Amravati district have angered journalists. Targeting the media, he referred to them as slaves" bound by their dependence on salaries to meet personal needs. Addressing a crowd on Saturday (November 16), Gandhi criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and also turned his focus to the media. For over a year, I have been advocating for constitutional reforms, caste-based census, and breaking the 50% reservation ceiling. Despite raising these issues in Parliament, Modi claims I am against reservation. Either he has memory loss, or he chooses to ignore the facts. The media also refuses to show this reality because they are under their owners control," he alleged. related stories He went on to elaborate on challenges faced by journalists. Journalists need salaries to educate their children and fill their stomachs. To ensure this, they are forced to obey their bosses. In a way, they are slaves. I like them, but their circumstances bind them. This is why I dont have a fight with them. They will never show what we do or say, but they will run Modis propaganda 247," he said. The Congress MP also ridiculed Modis narrative-building tactics, saying: The media wont show how Modi claims I oppose reservation. Instead, they will present a twisted version of the story. They also broadcast tales like Modi fighting a crocodile as a child, but when he visits the Ganga, it seems he forgets how to swim." His comments, particularly labelling journalists as slaves", have drawn sharp criticism from the media fraternity. Several journalists expressed outrage, calling the remarks dismissive and disrespectful toward their profession. Amravati-based journalist Mohan Sune, who is the head of the All India Rural Journalist Association, has condemned Gandhis statement. A statement issued by Sune said: Journalists in rural areas dont have access to top resources, but in that condition too they are working honestly, making such statements has hurt their sentiments and, hence, we condemn such a statement of Rahul Gandhi." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The remarks come at a time when media independence is a widely debated issue in India. While his comments highlight concerns about media ownership and control, his choice of words has alienated a section of journalists who now accuse him of undermining their integrity. The controversy adds another layer of tension as the election campaign heats up, with Gandhi continuing his sharp attacks on the prime minister and the ruling BJP. Location : Amravati, India First Published: November 17, 2024, 15:14 IST Priyanka Gandhi Leads Roadshow In Nagpur; Congress-BJP Workers Get Into Showdown Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 23:05 IST Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's maiden roadshow passed through Nagpur West and Nagpur Central constituencies amid a huge response from local people. Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi during a roadshow ahead of Maharashtra Assembly elections, in Nagpur. (PTI) Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra led a roadshow in Nagpur on the eve of the last day of campaigning for the Maharashtra assembly elections. It also saw a confrontation between BJP and Congress supporters towards the end of the event. related stories Priyankas maiden roadshow passed through Nagpur West and Nagpur Central constituencies amid a huge response from local people. The AICC general secretary stood in an open vehicle decorated with Congress banners, joined by the party leaders and activists. Women and girls came out in large numbers to catch a glimpse of Priyanka after the roadshow started from western Nagpur. Priyanka waved and smiled back as onlookers jostled to click her photos and record videos. In many places, flowers were showered on her. She received an enthusiastic response from people in the BJP-dominated Nagpur Central constituency as well. However, as the roadshow was about to conclude at Badkas Square, several BJP workers gathered and began raising slogans, triggering a showdown with Congress supporters. After Priyanka left the area, the Congress candidate for Nagpur Central, Bunty Shelke, and BJP supporters again got into a heated exchange, prompting the police to intervene. Shelke is pitted against BJPs Pravin Prabhakarrao Datke. An official from Kotwali police station said they did not allow the matter to escalate. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The second capital of Maharashtra houses RSS headquarters and Diksha Bhumi. Maharashtra Deputy CM and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis is contesting from one of the constituencies in Nagpur. Location : Nagpur, India First Published: November 17, 2024, 23:05 IST 'He Has Left NCP's Ideology': Sharad Pawar On Nephew Ajit's Baramati Contest Reported By : CNN-News18 Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 12:10 IST NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar said Ajit Pawar may be the Maharashtra Deputy CM now, but the people of Baramati know him as someone who started his political career with Congress ideology NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar said in all the previous elections, Ajit Pawar fought against the BJP but now he is sitting with them and contesting from Baramati. (Image: PTI/File) The contest in Baramati is about ideology, and the people have opposed the BJP in this assembly constituency for a long time, said NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar. He said his nephew and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has left behind his own partys ideology to support the saffron party and voters will not like this at all. The contest in Baramati is about ideology. We have been contesting elections for years, but we have distanced ourselves from and opposed the BJP. People in Baramati have opposed the BJP for years, and people will not like it. This is not personal He (Ajit Pawar) has left NCP ideology and is now supporting the BJP," Sharad Pawar told CNN-News18 in an exclusive interview, ahead of the assembly election on November 20. related stories He further said Ajit Dada is the deputy chief minister, which is his first office, but people in Baramati know him as someone who started his political career with Congress ideology. His position as MLA is his second office, he added. In this all-important Pawar family seat, Ajit Pawar is up against his own nephew Yugendra Pawar, who has been fielded by the rival NCP faction. The NCP veteran said in all the previous elections, Ajit fought against the BJP but now he is sitting with them and contesting. People are seeing the kind of statements that Ajit Dada is making, which will go against him eventually," he said. He said if the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) forms the government, it will not only provide reservation to Muslims alone but also to Marathas, Other Backward Class (OBC) and Dhangars. He added that not only reservation, but the alliance will work towards providing better facilities for these communities. On a statement by Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis that Baramati MP and daughter Supriya Sule is the possible CM face for the MVA, he said: This is her fourth term in the Lok Sabha. She has never thought to come to the state. Fadnavis has no other issues, thats why he is saying this." Pawar said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to be erected in the sea, but that was six years ago. Nothing has happened to date. PM Modi is only making statements without understanding his resources. The public now understands that he only makes statements, and there is nothing positive from his government," he said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Touching upon the controversy triggered by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanaths batenge toh katenge (if divided, we will be wiped out) statement, Pawar said such remarks cannot be made by responsible leaders. Ajit, whose party is part of the ruling Mahayuti, also opposed the comments, following which Fadnavis sent him a rejoinder. He is taking this to a communal line. They (BJP) are confident that they will lose. Thats why they are trying to communalise the entire narrative. This is disrespect and disservice to the community," Sharad Pawar added. First Published: November 17, 2024, 12:10 IST Will Soybean Prices Shape Maharashtra Polls? A Lesson From 'Onion Politics' Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 13:47 IST Falling market rates and operational challenges for soybean, extensively cultivated in the Marathwada and Vidarbha regions, may influence electoral outcomes in more than 70 assembly constituencies Soybean farming gained prominence in Maharashtra as an alternative to cotton. (Image: AP/File) In Maharashtra, there has been a significant shift in focus towards soybean prices and the distress faced by those farming the crop, becoming the central theme in the campaigning for the assembly election on November 20. Much like how onion prices disrupted the Lok Sabha elections. This time, soybean prices are poised to influence electoral outcomes in more than 70 constituencies. Falling market rates and operational challenges for the crop, extensively cultivated in the Marathwada and Vidarbha regions, have added a new dimension to the states political landscape. related stories Soybean farming gained prominence in the state as an alternative to cotton, which often proved unreliable due to fluctuating prices and pest attacks. Today, Marathwada has emerged as the soybean hub, with over 30 lakh hectares of farmland dedicated to its cultivation. Vidarbha, another significant agricultural belt, has also reported a bumper harvest this season. Despite the high yield, farmers are facing severe challenges due to plummeting market prices. The minimum support price (MSP) for soybean is set at Rs 4,800 per quintal, but the delay in opening government procurement centres has forced farmers to sell their produce at much lower rates in the open market. Soybean pricing is not just a state issue, but is influenced by global markets and national policies. To protect domestic farmers, the central government recently increased import duties on edible oil resulting in a Rs 45 per litre hike in cooking oil prices. This move, however, has done little to benefit soybean farmers for whom crop prices remain stagnant. Further complicating matters, the government has permitted ethanol production from maize and rice, leading to the production of 60 lakh MT of de-oiled cake (DOC), with maize and rice cakes priced at Rs 14 and Rs 22 per kg. While soybean DOC commands a higher price of Rs 42 per kg, these dynamics have failed to translate into better returns for farmers. The main issue is the delay in opening procurement centres. Even Pasha Patel, chairman of the Agricultural Prices Commission, has expressed frustration over lack of operational centres, urging the state government to act swiftly. WHAT IS THE POLITICS AROUND SOYBEAN PRICES? Opposition parties have seized the moment to corner the ruling alliance. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray has consistently raised the soybean pricing issue during his rallies, promising an MSP of Rs 6,000 for the crop if the Maha Vikas Aghadi comes to power. He has promised that the new government will provide stable prices and ensure farmers get their dues. The ruling Mahayuti, meanwhile, has tried to mitigate the crisis by announcing a marginal Rs 400 hike after increasing import duties on edible oil. Yet, the current market price is still Rs 490 short of the MSP, leaving many farmers dissatisfied. The political stakes are especially high in Marathwada and Vidarbha, which are heavily reliant on soybean farming. Districts like Latur, Osmanabad, Jalna, Beed, Parbhani and Aurangabad in Marathwada, along with Nagpur, Yavatmal, Chandrapur, Washim, Wardha and Buldhana in Vidarbha, could see their electoral outcomes swayed by farmer sentiment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the issue during a rally in Marathwada, promising measures to stabilise soybean prices. But, the timing of these announcements has drawn skepticism. Farmers, who have already sold their produce at lower rates, remain unconvinced about long-term solutions. WHAT DO SOYBEAN PRICES HAVE TO DO WITH ELECTORAL OUTCOMES? Just as onion prices reshaped the political narrative in the previous elections, soybean could be kingmaker in the assembly polls. Agriculture, which plays a critical role in Maharashtras economy, often affects major electoral outcomes especially if linked to discontent in the farming community. The dissatisfaction among soybean farmers is palpable. With the MSP still out of reach and procurement centres yet to be fully operational, more than 70 constituencies in soybean-dominated regions could witness a backlash against the current regime. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The polls will not only be a test of leadership but also an evaluation of how effectively the state addresses agricultural grievances. Both the ruling coalition and the opposition are aware that soybean prices could become the deciding factor in a number of constituencies. The opposition is banking on the frustration of farmers to consolidate votes. The state government is working to pacify the anger by promising stable prices and better policies in future. Hence, the election result will not only decide the fate of political parties but also the future of Maharashtras agrarian economy. First Published: November 17, 2024, 13:37 IST What Is A Hypersonic Missile That India Test-Fired? Why Is It Called Unpredictable? Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Manjiri Joshi Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 12:51 IST Heres a look at the technology which is faster than sound and which other countries have it The hypersonic missile was test-fired on Saturday. (X) India successfully test-fired a long-range hypersonic missile from the APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha, defence minister Rajnath Singh said on Sunday. The missile was test-fired on Saturday, according to officials. related stories Singh described the test-firing of the missile as a historic moment as it put India in the group of select nations having capabilities to develop such critical technologies. India has achieved a major milestone by successfully conducting flight trial of long range hypersonic missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, off-the-coast of Odisha," the defence minister said on X. This is a historic moment and this significant achievement has put our country in the group of select nations having capabilities of such critical and advanced military technologies," he said. Singh congratulated the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the armed forces and the industry for what he described as a stupendous" achievement. FASTER THAN SOUND, CAN CHANGE TRAJECTORY MID-AIR A hypersonic missile is among the most advanced technologies in modern warfare. It can travel at speeds ranging from five to 25 times the speed of sound, or upwards of 6,200 kilometres per hour. Its key feature is manoeuvrability, which allows the missiles to change trajectory mid-flight and makes the path unpredictable. This, combined with its ability to fly at lower altitudes than traditional ballistic missiles, makes hypersonic missiles exceedingly difficult to track and intercept. India has achieved a major milestone by successfully conducting flight trial of long range hypersonic missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, off-the-coast of Odisha. This is a historic moment and this significant achievement has put our country in the group of select nations pic.twitter.com/jZzdTwIF6w Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) November 17, 2024 RUSSIA, CHINA, US HAVE SIMILAR MISSILES Russia was in the news in February 2024 when it deployed its Zircon hypersonic cruise missile in Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin called it a part of a new generation of military capabilities, with successful tests from submarines and frigates. China launched a hypersonic glide vehicle in 2021 that circled the globe before missing its target. The United States tested an air-breathing hypersonic weapon in 2021. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all North Korea, too, announced the successful trial of a solid-fuel hypersonic missile. Iran, too, has said it has built a hypersonic ballistic missile. First Published: November 17, 2024, 12:28 IST Baba Siddique Murder: Gujarat Man Held From Akola, 25 Arrests Made So Far Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 15:47 IST The 66-year-old NCP leader was gunned down on October 12 near his MLA son Zeeshan Siddiques office in Bandra Easts Nirmal Nagar area. Police said Baba Siddiqui had received death threats 15 days ago, after which his security was increased to Y category. (PTI File Photo) The Mumbai Crime Branch on Sunday arrested a Gujarat resident from Akola in Maharashtra in the Baba Siddique murder case, taking the number of people held in the sensational incident to 25, an official said. Salmanbhai Iqbalbhai Vohra, a resident of Petlad in Gujarats Anand district, was held from Balapur in Akola, some 565 kilometres from the metropolis, with the help of the police there, the Crime Branch official said. related stories The 66-year-old NCP leader was gunned down on October 12 near his MLA son Zeeshan Siddiques office in Bandra Easts Nirmal Nagar area. Vohra had opened a bank account in May this year and had provided financial support to Nareshkumar Singh, brother of arrested accused Gurmail Singh, Rupesh Mohol and Harishkumar. He has also helped others connected to the crime," the official said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Gurmail Singh from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh resident Dharmaraj Kashyap were held from the spot immediately after the murder. The police recently got a major breakthrough in the case when it arrested alleged main shooter Shivkumar Gautam from Bahraich in Uttar Pradesh. Gautam, who was on the run since October 12, was held while trying to flee to Nepal, as per police. First Published: November 17, 2024, 15:47 IST Ex-Techies Innovation Brings Kashmirs Famed Saffron To A Lucknow Lab | Sunday Special Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 07:00 IST Hemant Srivastava and his father employed aeroponics, an advanced soil-free farming method to recreate Kashmirs climate and light conditions, overcoming geographical barriers and setting a new benchmark for agricultural innovation Hemant Srivastava traded his high-flying career for an agrarian dream and successfully cultivated saffron at his 300-square-feet lab in Lucknow. (News18) Once a techie settled in Silicon Valley, Hemant Srivastava, who traded his high-flying career for an agrarian dream, has successfully cultivated saffron Indias most prized spice at his 300-square-feet lab in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, far beyond the cool confines of Kashmir. The 38-year-old-techie achieved the ground-breaking feat by employing aeroponics, an advanced soil-free farming method in which he recreated Kashmirs climate and light conditions, overcoming geographical barriers and setting a new benchmark for agricultural innovation. related stories I never thought this could happen as I was told that saffron plants are most sensitive and a slight mismatch or odd conditions can spoil the crop. But I am happy that our efforts yielded positive results and we could manage to facilitate the first bloom in Lucknow far from its native soil," Srivastava told News18 while discussing the challenges he and his father, a retired judge, faced while embarking upon their project. The father-son duos journey, which began with the decision to cultivate the prized spice, was a challenging task. Right from learning the craft from traditional saffron farmers in Kashmir to setting up advanced machinery in their Lucknow-based lab, sourcing 1,000 kilograms of saffron bulbs, and patiently nurturing them until the first bloom, every step demanded unwavering effort and commitment. The beginning Almost a year ago, Srivastava, settled in Silicon Valley with his techie wife, decided to return to India to care for his aging parents. Like any family, we had financial needs, and something had to be done," Srivastava recalled. He engaged in endless discussions with his father, determined not to rejoin the corporate world. I didnt want a job in India that would keep me away from home again, defeating the purpose of my return," said Srivastava. Hence, I needed something that could be done within our own space. Since my father has a keen interest in farming, I wanted to combine technology with agriculture and after exploring various options, we finally zeroed in on saffron farming, which perfectly suited our criteria," he added. Implementation A Challenge Implementing the idea was challenging, Srivastava admitted. While online videos provided initial guidance, he sought a more concrete foundation for the venture. This led him to Kashmir, where he and his father spent days with traditional saffron farmers, learning intricate farming techniques and understanding the challenges involved. The time spent with the farmers was invaluable," he said. What is aeroponic technique? Other than taking lessons from saffron farmers, Srivastava said they also visited experts and trainers to learn aeroponics techniques. He said aeroponics is an innovative, soil-free farming technique where plants are grown with their roots suspended in air and misted with a nutrient-rich solution. This method eliminates the need for soil, allowing plants to absorb nutrients and oxygen more effectively, resulting in faster growth and higher yields. The system operates in a controlled environment, enabling precise regulation of temperature, humidity, and nutrient delivery. Aeroponics is highly efficient, using up to 95 per cent less water than traditional farming methods and significantly fewer nutrients, making it an eco-friendly and sustainable solution. It is particularly suited for growing high-value crops like saffron, herbs, lettuce, and strawberries. The absence of soil minimises the risk of pests and diseases, while the compact design is ideal for urban and vertical farming. Aeroponics not only enhances productivity but also addresses the challenges of land and resource scarcity, offering a modern approach to sustainable agriculture. The Mechanical Hustle Srivastava transformed two rooms of his house into a 300-square-foot space dedicated to saffron farming. To create the ideal environment, he reached out to a renowned refrigeration company, explaining his requirements. Based on these, the company converted the rooms into a Mini Kashmir, replicating the regions climatic conditions, including temperature, humidity levels, sunlight exposure, and other crucial factors for saffron cultivation. The entire set-up cost around Rs 30 to 40 lakh," he shared, adding that it took nearly a year of meticulous planning and adjustments before they could finally reach the implementation stage. This detailed effort and investment have allowed him to successfully grow saffron outside its traditional Kashmir habitat. But can sunlight be imitated? Srivastava explained that sunlight exposure can be imitated by using special grow lights. These lights are designed to emit wavelengths similar to natural sunlight, which plants need for photosynthesis. By installing these lights in the converted space, Hemant was able to replicate the sunlight conditions that saffron requires for optimal growth. The grow lights ensure that the plants receive the necessary light energy for photosynthesis, even in a controlled indoor environment, overcoming the lack of natural sunlight. He said initially he had procured 1,000 kilograms of saffron bulbs, which cost him around Rs 10 lakh. The techie said if all goes well and as per plan, he will be able to extract more than one kilogram of pure saffron. Srivastava said he is yet to estimate the selling price, which he said could be between Rs 4 to Rs 5 lakh per kilogram. Purest form of saffron Srivastava is confident that the quality of his lab-grown saffron will surpass that of the saffron grown in Kashmir. In our lab, we are replicating the exact environmental conditions particularly temperature and humidity required for saffron to thrive, and we maintain these conditions 247," he said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He said no pesticides or fertilisers are used in his farming process. We use Reverse Osmosis (RO) water for hydration and to maintain high humidity levels, ensuring a pristine growing environment. Unlike traditional soil farming, our aeroponic method eliminates the need for fertilisers or chemicals, making our saffron the purest form available," he explained. Srivastavas lab-grown saffron, expected to debut in the market next month, marks a pioneering step. He believes this innovative approach will not only redefine saffron cultivation but also pave the way for agricultural advancements, opening new avenues for farmers and entrepreneurs to embrace technology-driven and sustainable farming practices. First Published: November 17, 2024, 07:00 IST KYODO NEWS - Nov 17, 2024 - 16:54 | All, Japan Three people died when a pleasure boat and a tugboat collided in the Seto Inland Sea in western Japan on Sunday morning, the coast guard said. The captain of the tugboat made an emergency call around 5:45 a.m., the local fire department said, adding of the four people recovered from the pleasure boat, two men and a woman had died, and the remaining person had suffered minor injuries. The pleasure boat sank after colliding with the 16-meter-long, 19-ton tugboat off Yamaguchi Prefecture, which had been issued with a dense fog advisory for inland areas on Sunday morning. Related coverage: Hokkaido boat firm president indicted for 2022 fatal sinking Good That This Truth Is Coming Out: PM Modi Throws His Weight Behind Sabarmati Report Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 16:08 IST PM Modi praised the movie on social media saying that due to Sabarmati Files the truth is finally out. PM Modi praised Vikrant Massey, Raashii Khanna, and Ridhi Dogra-starrer The Sabarmati Report for bringing out the truth and facts. (IMAGE: X/PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday praised the makers of Sabarmati Report for helping dispel fake narratives. Well said. It is good that this truth is coming out, and that too in a way common people can see it.A fake narrative can persist only for a limited period of time. Eventually, the facts will always come out! https://t.co/8XXo5hQe2y Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2024 related stories He took to social media to praise the makers of the movie for bringing the truth to the fore. Modis praise for the movie came through a repost of a tweet originally shared by Alok Bhatt, who praised the film in his post. Well said," the PM commented the X users original post. It is good that this truth is coming out, and that too in a way common people can see it. A fake narrative can persist only for a limited period of time. Eventually, the facts will always come out!" he further added. Starring Vikrant Massey, Raashii Khanna, and Ridhi Dogra, the Sabarmati Report is a drama-thriller movie centred on the 2002 Godhra train burning incident in Gujarat, which claimed 59 lives. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Vikrant Massey, who played the role of a journalist in the movie, spoke about the challenges of being associated with the film, sharing, I have been receiving threats. Without drawing attention to it, it is something which I am dealing with and we, as a team, collectively are dealing with," as reported by PTI. News18 Showsha in its review of the cinema said: Khanna and Massey together carry the film on their shoulders and take it to another level where it gains pace, keeping you on the edge of your seat; the dialogues will surely receive applause and some whistles. Along with the power-packed dialogues, the film strums a patriotic chord with the music and background score. As much as the film showcases the reported truth of the Sabarmati Report, it also balances out the fact that it talks about the brotherhood among communities within our country". Location : Abuja, Nigeria First Published: November 17, 2024, 15:44 IST India's Free Trade Pacts Not Paused, All Talks Progressing As Per Schedule: Official Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 18:38 IST Besides the EU and the UK, India is negotiating these agreements with Australia, Peru, Sri Lanka, and Oman. The official said that an impression is going around that FTAs are paused, which is not correct. (Representative image) Negotiations for all the proposed free trade agreements, including those with the UK and European Union (EU), are progressing as per the schedule and the countrys FTAs are not paused, a top government official has said. The official said that an impression is going around that FTAs are paused, which is not correct. related stories "All our FTAs, whether it is with the EU or UK, all are progressing as per the schedule," the official said. In the coming weeks, a bilateral meeting is scheduled between the commerce secretary and the Director-General of the European Union to take stock of the negotiations for the proposed trade agreement with the European Union. They will also meet as part of the Trade and Technology Council (TTC). Besides the EU and the UK, India is negotiating these agreements with Australia, Peru, Sri Lanka, and Oman. In such pacts, two trading partners either significantly cut customs duties or remove the maximum number of goods traded between them. They also ease norms to promote trade in services and attract investments. India has so far implemented FTAs with a number of nations including Japan, Korea, Singapore, and the UAE. According to the commerce ministry, the next round of negotiations for the proposed free trade agreement between India and South American nation Peru will be held after finalisation of the FTA strategy. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The standard operating procedure (SOP) or strategy document for negotiating free trade agreements (FTAs) is expected to be ready by the end of this year. It is an internal document aiming to standardise the processes of negotiations of these pacts. The ministry has also informed that the negotiations for a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA) with Oman were completed in March this year, but further discussions are ongoing. First Published: November 17, 2024, 18:38 IST Kerala Lottery Results, November 18 & November 17, 2024 (Today & Yesterday): Akshaya AK-677 Winners Announced; Full List Here! Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: November 21, 2024, 09:03 IST Kerala Lottery Results: Here's FULL LIST of winning numbers for Akshaya AK-677 lucky draw for Sunday, November 17. Kerala Lottery Akshaya AK-677 Result: The first prize winner of Akshaya AK-677 will get Rs 70 lakh. (Image: Shutterstock) KERALA LOTTERY AKSHAYA AK-677 RESULT ON SUNDAY, 17.11.2024, LIVE UPDATES: The Kerala State Lottery Department has announced the results of the Akshaya AK-677 lucky draw for Sunday, November 17. Ticket number AE 759139 has won the first prize of Rs 70 lakh. The jackpot winning ticket was sold at Wayanadu by an agent Padmanabhan KM, with agency number W 1903. The second prize of Rs 5 lakh was won by ticket number AF 760845, also sold at Wayanadu, by agent TS Suresh Kumar (Agency No.: W 409). Check the Full List of Winning Numbers below. ALSO READ: Kerala Lottery Results Today 21.11.2024: Karunya Plus KN-548 Winners Soon; First Prize Rs 80 Lakh! related stories FULL LIST OF WINNING NUMBERS FOR AKSHAYA AK-677 LOTTERY Winning number for 1st prize of Rs 70 lakh is AE 759139 (WAYANADU) Agent Name: PADMANABHAN K M Agency No.: W 1903 Winning number for 2nd prize of Rs 5 lakh is AF 760845 (WAYANADU) Agent Name: T S SURESH KUMAR Agency No.: W 409 Winning numbers for 3rd prize of Rs 1 lakh are AA 878475 AB 382357 AC 249668 AD 393585 AE 253916 AF 894874 AG 719150 AH 649832 AJ 370788 AK 206776 AL 181212 AM 233176 Winning numbers for 4th prize of Rs 5,000 are 0499 0773 2830 2861 3083 3356 3671 3783 4773 5248 5634 6060 7090 7135 7156 7499 8822 9249 Winning numbers for 5th prize of Rs 2,000 are 3592 3901 4685 6030 6914 8690 9304 Winning numbers for 6th prize of Rs 1,000 are 1946 2658 2740 2865 3268 3436 3709 3883 4065 4516 5253 5478 5902 6185 6298 6634 6758 7225 7242 7736 7975 8008 8308 8433 8839 9195 Winning numbers for 7th prize of Rs 500 are 6663 8832 7047 5324 4708 9887 5435 2533 2746 2105 8716 8744 4073 9954 6289 0689 0480 2031 1477 8130 2200 0864 6498 7043 6233 2790 9635 1431 1293 4898 0291 3277 3285 0130 2346 8890 Winning numbers for 8th prize of Rs 100 are 0118 0254 0491 0518 0535 0596 0602 0686 0699 0780 0991 1224 1253 1295 1439 1461 1588 1620 1823 1871 1957 1989 2306 2380 2730 2737 2757 3070 3264 3267 3287 3311 3517 3546 3645 3690 3714 3794 3796 3896 3903 4113 4121 4134 4173 4180 4380 4383 4488 4629 4906 4929 4955 5059 5271 5316 5329 5381 5397 5529 5621 5624 5648 5668 5880 5971 5990 6070 6073 6366 6586 6621 7021 7044 7053 7077 7113 7136 7179 7201 7220 7297 7403 7406 7473 7551 7724 7835 7886 7901 7938 8021 8073 8147 8236 8296 8298 8413 8417 8468 8476 8510 8534 8629 8714 8760 8886 8938 9361 9385 9447 9479 9480 9556 9630 9650 9762 9770 9786 9814 9831 9844 9856 Winning numbers for Consolation prize of Rs 8,000 are AA 759139 AB 759139 AC 759139 AD 759139 AF 759139 AG 759139 AH 759139 AJ 759139 AK 759139 AL 759139 AM 759139 How To Check Akshaya AK-677 Lottery Results? To verify the official Akshaya AK-677 lottery results and winning numbers, visit www.keralalottery.info. The results can also be obtained via the Kerala Government Gazette Office. HOW TO CLAIM PRIZE MONEY? In order to find out whether you won a prize in the Kerala State Lottery, follow the instructions below- Check the numbers on your ticket versus the ones published in the Kerala Government Gazette. If your ticket number matches one of the winning numbers, you are eligible for the prize. To claim your prize money, go to the Kerala Lottery offices in Thiruvananthapuram within 30 days of the draw date. Bring your winning ticket and proper identification to get your reward money. DOCUMENTS REQUIRED TO CLAIM PRIZE MONEY? A photocopy of the winning ticket with self-attestation on both sides is required. Two passport-sized photos that have been signed by a Gazette employee. An extra PAN card with the participants signature. Fill out the online reward money receipt form, attach a revenue stamp, and submit it. Identity cards (PAN, Aadhaar, voter ID, ration cards, and so on). HOW TO DOWNLOAD A PDF WITH A FULL LIST OF WINNING NUMBERS? Check out the official website of the Kerala Lottery Department, which can be found at keralalotteries.info or keralalotteryresult.net. Click on the link to access the Akshaya Lottery Result AK-677. The winning numbers should be displayed in the result. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Locate the download link available on the webpage. Choose the option to download the PDF version of the lottery results. Location : Thiruvananthapuram [Trivandrum], India First Published: November 17, 2024, 09:00 IST Manipur Unrest: Conrad Sangmas NPP Withdraws Support From Biren Singhs Government Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 19:43 IST Meghalaya chief minister and NPP chief Conrad Sangma blamed his Manipur counterpart for the violence that has engulfed the state. Meghalaya chief minister and NPP chief Conrad Sangma withdrew support from the N Biren Singh-led government in Manipur due to current unrest between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo and Hmar communities. (IMAGE: PTI) The Conrad Sangma-led National Peoples Party (NPP) withdrew its support to the BJP-led Manipur government led by N Biren Singh on Sunday and expressed deep concern" over the prevailing law and order situation in the northeastern state. The Meghalaya chief minister blamed his Manipur counterpart for failing to quell the unrest in his state where violence between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo groups have led to months of unrest and have adversely impacted normal life in the state. related stories NPP and BJP are part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) coalition. Sangma then blamed Singh for the unrest. We strongly feel that the Manipur State Government under the leadership of Shri Biren Singh has completely failed to resolve the crisis and restore normalcy. Keeping the current situation in mind, the National Peoples Party has decided to withdraw its support to the Biren Singh led Government in the State of Manipur, with immediate effect," Sangma further added.. Meanwhile, Congress MLAs also offered to resign in the wake of the current situation in their state. I, along with all the Congress MLAs, am ready to resign as an MLA if the people of Manipur want to bring a new mandate to bring peace in Manipur," Congress MLA Keisham Meghachandra said in a social media post on X. Manipur, which has been reeling from ethnic strife since May last year, continues to be volatile following protests and violence after the recovery of bodies of women and children. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday reviewed the security situation in Manipur and directed top security officials to take all possible steps to ensure peace. He will hold a review meeting on Monday, CNN-News18 has learned. Fresh incidents of violent protests took place on Saturday night even as an indefinite curfew was clamped after people, agitated by the killing of three women and children each by militants in Jiribam district, attacked the residences of three state ministers and six MLAs earlier on Saturday. Six persons were missing from a camp for the displaced in Jiribam since Monday following a gunfight between militants and security forces that led to the deaths of 10 insurgents. The bodies of the two women and a child were recovered from Barak River in Jiribam on Saturday, while three other bodies, including those of a woman and two children, were found on Friday night. Meanwhile, the funeral of 10 Kuki-Zo youths, who were killed in an alleged gunfight with CRPF, will not be conducted till their post-mortem reports were handed over to the families, a leading organisation representing the community said on Sunday. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF), a key organisation of the Kuki-Zo community in Manipur, has convened an emergency meeting to decide its future course of action regarding the funeral of the 10 people, killed in Jiribam district. Irate mobs set fire to the residences of three more BJP legislators, one of whom is a senior minister, and a Congress MLA in various districts of Imphal Valley even as security forces foiled the attempt of agitators to storm the ancestral residence of Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, officials said. Location : Imphal, India First Published: November 17, 2024, 18:55 IST Day After Attack On CM Biren Singh's House, 23 Arrested; Total Curfew In Imphal Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 14:02 IST Large-scale violence erupted in parts of the Imphal Valley districts on Saturday over the recovery of six missing bodies in Jiribam district. Vehicles set on fire during violent protests in Manipur on Saturday | Image/PTI A day after an angry mob stormed the private residence of Chief Minister N Biren Singh in Imphal, the Manipur Police arrested 23 individuals, allegedly involved in ransacking and setting fire to houses of MLAs. Large-scale violence erupted in parts of the Imphal Valley districts on Saturday as mobs attacked the residences of several MLAs and destroyed property, reportedly over the killing of six people, whose bodies were found in Jiribam after they were kidnapped allegedly by militants. related stories The bodies, including that of an eight-month-old child, were found in the Barak River, said locals, adding that they had been missing since Monday following violent clashes where 10 armed Kuki men were killed in a gunfight with security forces. Eight persons have been injured in the process of mob dispersal. Further, 23 persons who were part of the mob indulging in ransacking and arson of the houses above have been arrested," the Manipur Police said in an X post. On 16.11.2024, irate mobs have targeted various houses and properties of public representatives including Ministers and MLAs of the State in Imphal. Police have resorted to firing tear gas shells etc. to disperse the mob. Security forces including Army and Assam Rifles have been Manipur Police (@manipur_police) November 17, 2024 The police added that the arrests were made from Imphal East, Imphal West and Bishnupur districts and they recovered a .32 pistol, seven rounds of SBBL, and eight mobile phones from their possession. Total Curfew In Imphal, Internet Cut Given the violent protests, a total curfew was imposed in the towns of Imphal West and Imphal East and internet services were cut in parts of the state. The state officials informed that in fresh orders, they have imposed internet restrictions in the Jiribam and Pherazwal districts of Manipur for the next two days. Total curfew has been immediately clamped in the town until further orders. Internet and mobile data services have been suspended for 02 days immediately. SsP/ COs have been deployed on the ground to manage the law-and-order situation," the Manipur Police said. The ministers whose residences came under attack by protesters include Health Minister Sapam Ranjan, Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution Minister L Susindro Singh, and Municipal Administration and Housing Development Minister Y Khemchand. Others targeted include BJP MLA RK Imo, who is the son-in-law of Chief Minister N Biren Singh. Rahul Gandhi Urges PM To Visit Manipur Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Sunday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the strife-torn Manipur to restore peace and heal the region. After more than a year of division and suffering, it was the hope of every Indian that the Central and State governments would have made every effort at reconciliation and found a solution. I urge the PM once again to visit Manipur and work towards restoring peace and healing in the region," Gandhi said in an X post. The recent string of violent clashes and continuing bloodshed in Manipur is deeply disturbing.After more than a year of division and suffering, it was the hope of every Indian that the Central and State governments would have made every effort at reconciliation and found a Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 16, 2024 top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Centre had, on several occasions, sent additional security forces and promised firm action against violent members of both communities, causing unrest in the northeastern state. Since May last year, at least 250 people have lost their lives, and 60,000 have been displaced in Manipur due to inter-communal clashes over government grants and quotas in jobs and education. Location : Imphal, India First Published: November 17, 2024, 09:48 IST News18 Evening Digest: AAP Alleges ED Pressure Over Kailash Gahlot's Resignation & Other Top Stories Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 18:22 IST We are also covering: PM Modi, Tinubu Discuss India-Nigeria Strategic Ties, Ayushmann Khurrana Recalls 'Childhood Trauma' Of Being Beaten Up & other top stories Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja. (Narendra Modi/X) In todays evening digest, News18 covers the latest updates on Delhi Minister Kailash Gahlots shocking resignation from AAP, PM Modis visit to Nigeria, Ayushmann Khurranas childhood trauma" and other top stories. After Kailash Gahlots Resignation, AAP Alleges Probe Agency Pressure: He Had No Option related stories Moments after Delhi Minister Kailash Gahlot resigned from the cabinet and AAPs primary membership on Sunday, the Arvind Kejriwal-led party charged the BJP for conspiring against their leaders" by putting them under pressure using central probe agencies. AAP MP Sanjay Singh said that Gahlot had no option" but to leave the party as he came under pressure after Enforcement Directorate and Income Tax raids. Read More PM Modi, Tinubu Discuss India-Nigeria Strategic Ties, Threats Posed By Terrorism Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday held extensive talks with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu focusing on boosting the India-Nigeria partnership in a range of areas, including trade, investment and digital public infrastructure. In his opening remarks, he addressed the host with the Yoruba phrase Ore mi which translates to My friend and extended condolences to those affected by the recent floods in the country and said India is sending 20 tonne relief material for those impacted. Read More Good That This Truth Is Coming Out: PM Modi Throws His Weight Behind Sabarmati Report Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday praised the makers of The Sabarmati Report for helping dispel fake narratives. He took to social media to praise the makers of the movie for bringing the truth to the fore. Modis praise for the movie came through a repost of a tweet originally shared by Alok Bhatt, who praised the film in his post. Well said," the PM commented the X users original post. Read More Vikash Yadav, Wanted By FBI In Pannun Case, Claims Risk To Life In Delhi Court Vikash Yadav, whom the FBI is looking for in connection with his alleged involvement in the conspiracy to kill Khalistani terrorist and US citizen Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, claimed a threat to his life before a Delhi court. Yadav, 39, moved an application before a Delhi court requesting to exempt him from attending his case hearing saying theres a security threat to his life. Read More Rohit Sharma Opts Out Of Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test After Birth Of Second Child: Report Rohit Sharma will not be playing the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the Indian captain is expected to be ready for the second Test at Adelaide Oval on December 6. India captain Rohit Sharma and his wife Ritika Sajdeh officially announced the birth of their second child on Saturday. As per reports, the couple welcomed a baby boy on Friday. Read More top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Ayushmann Khurrana Recalls Childhood Trauma Of Being Beaten Up With Belts By His Father: He Was A Dictator Ayushmann Khurrana is currently touring the United States with his music band, Aayushmanbhava. This year, he doesnt have a film releasing. However, hes far from being out of the spotlight. In a recent interview on the Honestly Saying podcast, Ayushmann spoke about his journey in both cinema and music. When asked if he was a different father compared to his own, Ayushmann Khurrana quickly agreed. Read More First Published: November 17, 2024, 17:56 IST Pakistan-Trained Hizbul Terrorist, 31 Years On The Run, Nabbed By UP Police In Kashmir Reported By : CNN-News18 Edited By: Shankhyaneel Sarkar Last Updated: November 20, 2024, 14:29 IST Pakistan-trained Hizbul terrorist Nazir Ahmad Wani of Budgam was arrested by Saharanpur Police. Saharanpur Police with help from Kashmir Police nabbed a Pakistan-trained Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist from Budgam area. (IMAGE: PTI/REPRESENTATIVE) The Uttar Pradesh Police arrested Nazir Ahmad Wani, a Pakistan-trained Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist, after 31 years on the run in Kashmirs Budgam. Wani was involved in two cases registered in Saharanpur in 1993 and 1994, and is accused of hurling a grenade at a police party and injuring personnel. related stories He also created a fake identity card under Hizbuls directions. His background is being checked as the arrest takes place after 31 years of FIR registration," a source told CNN-News18. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He was earlier arrested and bailed out in the grenade case, while a chargesheet was filed in absentia in the forgery case. In the forgery case, chargesheet was filed in absentia of the accused, therefore CJM court issued a warrant against the subject," the source said. J&K Police assisted Saharanpur Police personnel in the arrest. The subject was located and handed over to the police party under proper formalities," the source further added. First Published: November 17, 2024, 21:30 IST Rats Gnaw Dead Man's Eye In Patna Hospital; 2 Nurses Suspended Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 23:09 IST The state health department, which initiated an investigation into the matter, on Sunday evening suspended two nurses on the charges of negligence on their part. The family members alleged negligence and foul play, while some doctors suspected that rats might have gnawed the eye. (Representative image) An eye of a man who succumbed to his bullet injuries in a state-run hospital in Patna was found missing hours after his death, with doctors blaming rats for gnawing it and the family members of the deceased suspecting foul play. The state health department, which initiated an investigation into the matter, on Sunday evening suspended two nurses on the charges of negligence on their part. related stories Fantush Kumar, who was admitted to Nalanda Medical College and Hospital (NMCH) in Patna after being shot at by unknown assailants on November 15, succumbed to his injuries on Friday night. His body was kept on the ICU bed as post-mortem examination could not be conducted at night. The autopsy was conducted on Saturday morning. "As the body was being brought from the morgue, we noticed that the left eye was missing and a surgical blade was lying on the stretcher beside the body," a family member said. The family members alleged negligence and foul play, while some doctors suspected that rats might have gnawed the eye. Speaking to reporters, NMCH medical superintendent Binod Kumar Singh said, "A medical team has been constituted to probe the matter. Its a serious issue and strict action must be taken against those found guilty." "A group of doctors suspect that rats might have gnawed the eye. All aspects pertaining to the incident are being probed. We are also waiting for the autopsy report," he said. "How the eye was gouged out can only be known after receiving the autopsy report. The hospital administration has also lodged a formal complaint with the Alamganj police station in this regard," the medical superintendent said. Speaking to PTI on Sunday, Rajiv Kumar, Station House Officer (SHO) of Alamganj police station, said, "A case has been registered on the basis of a formal complaint filed by the hospital administration. We are examining the CCTV footage of the hospital and also sought clarifications from the doctors who performed the post-mortem examination. We are also examining family members of the deceased as well as other hospital staffers. The case is being investigated from all angles." Family members of the deceased have not lodged any complaint so far. Meanwhile, the state health department suspended two nurses on the charges of negligence on their part following the incident. "Although the matter is being investigated by a high-level committee as well the police, based on the basis of preliminary findings, the department has ordered suspension of two nurses, who were on duty when the reported incident took place. Suspension has been ordered due to negligence on the part of nurses," Health Minister Mangal Pandey told PTI. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The minister, however, refused to elaborate on the nature of negligence allegedly committed by the nurses saying let the inquiry by the medical team as well the police complete. Patna District Magistrate Chandrashekhar Singh said, "Strict action would be taken against the guilty. The district administration is monitoring the situation". First Published: November 17, 2024, 23:09 IST In related news, Mumbais Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport received a bomb threat on Wednesday afternoon from an unidentified caller who claimed there was a plan to bomb the airport. The call was directed to the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) control room, with the caller naming an individual, who was allegedly carrying explosives on a flight from Mumbai to Azerbaijan. This was one of more than 400 similar calls made in recent weeks, disrupting air travel and prompting security checks. Although the frequency of bomb threats seems to have declined in recent days. Multiple schools in Mumbai and Delhi, along with hotels in Tirupati, also received bomb threat calls last month, prompting police action. In most cases, the threats turned out to be hoaxes, according to officials. Disappeared And Presumed Dead, Man Returns To Stun Family At His Own Prayer Meet Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 15:14 IST The family had identified the body after police summoned them for identification of a man found near the Sabarmati bridge. Representative Image (ANI Image) A bizarre turn of events occurred in Gujarats Mehsana that left a family feeling perplexed. The family which was mourning the death of one of its members experienced mixed emotions as the dead" walked into the event alive, according to a media report. What Was The Incident? related stories A 43-year-old man, identified as Brijesh Suthar, had gone missing from his residence in Naroda on October 27, NDTV reported. His family searched for him but could not find him. Conceding, they filed the police complaint. After nearly two weeks since his disappearance, a body was found near the Sabarmati bridge on November 10. The police summoned the family members to identify the body which was in a decomposed state. The family presumed it was the body of the missing person due to the physical resemblance, NDTV reported. The man was reportedly suffering from mental problems and was stressed due to financial issues. The family performed the cremation of the body they identified previously and organised a prayer meet on Friday in his memory. Man Walks Into The Event It was then that Brijesh walked into the event, alive and left his family members in shock. We looked for him everywhere. His phone was switched off. Then police showed us a body, it was swollen, we misidentified it and performed the cremation," NDTV quoted his mother as saying. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The reappearance of the dead" left the police in complication, wondering whose body was cremated by the family then. The police have now launched an investigation into the incident to find out whose body it was. There was no information about Brijeshs whereabouts during his disappearance. First Published: November 17, 2024, 15:14 IST Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson on meeting between Chinese, U.S. Presidents in Lima Xinhua) 15:18, November 17, 2024 BEIJING, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson on Sunday shared an overview of the meeting between Chinese and U.S. Presidents in Lima. Noting that President Xi Jinping met with U.S. President Joe Biden upon request on the margins of the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Lima, Peru, on the afternoon of November 16 local time, the spokesperson said that this meeting was held one year after the last time that the two Presidents met. The two sides reviewed the journey of China-U.S. relations over the past four years, and drew experiences and inspirations from it. Their conversation was candid, in-depth and constructive. It focused on advancing dialogue and cooperation and properly managing differences during the transition period of the U.S. government and on regional and international issues of mutual interest, and charted the course for bilateral relations, the spokesperson said. Over the past four years, China-U.S. relations have gone through ups and downs, but under the stewardship of the two Presidents, the two sides have also been engaged in dialogue and cooperation, and bilateral ties have remained stable on the whole, the spokesperson said, adding that in his interactions with President Biden, President Xi fully shared his views on how the two sides should approach bilateral relations, which provide strategic guidance and are important for the direction of this relationship. President Xi vividly compared the relationship between China and the U.S. to a mansion. He proposed in 2021 during the virtual meeting with President Biden that the two countries need to follow the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, which is the dome of the mansion. During the 2022 Bali meeting, he underscored Chinas four red lines on the Taiwan question, path and system, democracy and human rights, and right to development, which is the foundation of the mansion. During the meeting in San Francisco in 2023, he stated that China and the U.S. should jointly develop a right perception, manage disagreements effectively, advance mutually beneficial cooperation, shoulder responsibilities as major countries and promote people-to-people exchanges, which are the five pillars of the mansion, the spokesperson said. In Lima, President Xi insightfully listed seven experiences and inspirations that the two countries should draw from the course of their relations, namely, to have a correct strategic perception, match words with actions, treat each other as equals, not to challenge red lines and paramount principles, conduct more dialogue and cooperation, respond to the expectations of the people, and step forward to shoulder the responsibilities of major countries. He stressed that the two sides should continue to add building blocks to the mansion, and expressed readiness to make joint effort with President Biden and his successor towards this end, the spokesperson said. History tells us that China and the U.S. stand to gain from cooperation and lose from confrontation. President Xi pointed out from his deep observation that the Thucydides's Trap is not a historical inevitability, a new Cold War should not be fought and cannot be won, and containing China is unwise, unacceptable and bound to fail. China and the U.S., as two major countries in the world, need to bear in mind the benefit of the whole world and inject more certainty and positive energy to todays turbulent world, the spokesperson said. The spokesperson said that the common understandings achieved at the Lima meeting are as follows. The two Presidents reiterated the seven-point common understandings on the guiding principles for China-U.S. relations, namely treating each other with respect, finding a way to live alongside each other peacefully, maintaining open lines of communication, preventing conflict, upholding the United Nations Charter, cooperating in areas of shared interest, and responsibly managing competitive aspects of the relationship. The two sides are ready to uphold these principles, continue to stabilize China-U.S. relations, and ensure a smooth transition of the relationship. The two Presidents spoke positively about the important role of China-U.S. strategic communication, regular contact between the diplomatic and security teams, and dialogue mechanisms on mil-to-mil relations, economic and trade ties, and financial issues. They agreed to maintain the momentum in communication and strengthen macroeconomic policy coordination. The two Presidents reviewed the important progress in dialogue and cooperation on counternarcotics, climate change, AI, and people-to-people exchanges since their San Francisco meeting, the spokesperson said. The two Presidents believed that the two sides have had candid and constructive dialogue on AI. The two sides co-sponsored each other's resolutions at the United Nations General Assembly on AI. On this basis, they affirmed the need to deal with risks of AI systems, make AI safer, enhance international cooperation, and promote AI for good and for all. The two Presidents affirmed the need to maintain human control over the decision to use nuclear weapons, and they stressed the need to seriously consider potential risks and adopt a prudent and responsible attitude when developing AI for the military domain, the spokesperson said. "At the meeting, the two sides did not shy away from differences. President Xi made China's principled position absolutely clear on several major issues," the spokesperson said. On the Taiwan question, President Xi Jinping stressed that the one-China principle and the three China-U.S. joint communiques are the political foundation of China-U.S. relations and must be observed. Cross-Strait peace and stability and "Taiwan independence" separatist activities are irreconcilable as water and fire. If the U.S. side cares about maintaining peace across the Taiwan Strait, it is crucial that it sees clearly the true nature of Lai Ching-te and the DPP authorities in seeking "Taiwan independence," handles the Taiwan question with extra prudence, unequivocally opposes "Taiwan independence," and supports China's peaceful reunification. On the South China Sea issue, President Xi stressed that China firmly upholds its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea. Dialogue and consultation between states concerned is always the best way to manage differences in the South China Sea. The United States should not get involved in bilateral disputes over relevant islands and reefs of Nansha Qundao, nor should it aid or abet the impulsion to make provocations. On U.S. suppression against China's trade and technology development, President Xi noted that the Chinese people's right to development is not to be deprived of or ignored. All countries need to safeguard their national security. In the face of challenges, neither decoupling nor supply-chain disruption is the solution, and "small yard, high fences" is not what a major country should do. The U.S. should not overstretch the national security concept, still less use it as a pretext for malicious moves to constrain and contain other countries. On alleged "cyberattacks from China," President Xi noted that there is no evidence that supports the irrational claim and China itself is a target of international cyberattacks, and consistently opposes and combats all forms of cyberattacks. On the U.S.'s smear and blame-shifting against China on international and regional issues, President Xi noted that Chinas position and actions on the Ukraine issue have always been fair and square. China conducts shuttle diplomacy and mediation to promote peace talks, makes every effort for peace, and strives for deescalation. China does not allow conflict and turmoil to happen on the Korean Peninsula, and will not sit idly by when China's strategic security and core interests are under threat. The spokesperson noted that President Xi in particular stressed that China's goal of a stable, healthy and sustainable China-U.S. relationship remains unchanged. Its commitment to mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation as principles for handling China-U.S. relations remains unchanged. Its position of resolutely safeguarding Chinas sovereignty, security and development interests remains unchanged. And its desire to carry forward the traditional friendship between the Chinese and American peoples remains unchanged. "This shows that China is ready to engage in dialogue, expand cooperation, and manage differences with the incoming U.S. government so as to maintain stability in China-U.S. relations to the benefits of the two countries and the world at large," the spokesperson said. (Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Zhong Wenxing) ADDIS ABABA, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed inaugurated the Ethiopian Federal Police Forensic Investigation and Research Center of Excellence Saturday in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. Speaking at the event, Abiy said the center would help members of the federal police conduct digital forensic investigation and DNA testing as well as analyze complex crimes. "Just a year and a half ago, when DNA testing was needed, we had to rely on external resources," the prime minister noted on his social media page after inaugurating the center. Abiy said the center is the outcome of the government's commitment to modernizing law enforcement agencies and equipping them with the necessary technology and knowledge. He also underscored that the achievement reflects the significant reforms the East African country has undertaken in the security and safety sector over the past five years. "Today, Ethiopia has established an institution capable of addressing DNA-related challenges domestically while also serving neighboring countries," said the prime minister, recalling that the country had been sending samples to South Africa for DNA testing until very recently. The inauguration event was attended by senior government officials, members of the federal police, and diplomats from various countries. The Chinese Embassy in Ethiopia in its congratulatory message said the center would meet not only the needs of Ethiopia but also East African countries and that of the whole of Africa. According to the Chinese Embassy, China provided technical and equipment support to the newly inaugurated forensic investigation and research center. Vikash Yadav, Wanted By FBI In Pannun Case, Claims 'Risk To Life' In Delhi Court Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 13:13 IST He was arrested by the Delhi Police Anti-Terror Wing Special Cell last year on the basis of extortion and kidnapping charges. Vikash Yadav was charged by the US for leading an unsuccessful plot to murder Khalistan terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun last year | Image/File Vikash Yadav, whom the FBI is looking for in connection with his alleged involvement in the conspiracy to kill Khalistani terrorist and US citizen Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, claimed a threat to his life before a Delhi court. Yadav, 39, moved an application before a Delhi court requesting to exempt him from attending his case hearing saying theres a security threat to his life. He was granted exemption and has been asked to appear on February 3. related stories He was arrested by the Delhi Police Anti-Terror Wing Special Cell last year for extortion and is out on bail after spending a few months in Tihar Jail. After walking out of the jail in April this year, the FBIs New York office put him on its wanted list on October 18, according to reports. The indictment by the US Department of Justice charged Yadav with leading an unsuccessful plot to murder Sikh separatist Pannun last year. Yadav was an official of Indias Research and Analysis Wing spy service, the indictment alleged. Meanwhile, the highly-placed sources claimed that the person was no longer an employee of the Government of India. Yadavs Court Appeal In a two-page application filed before the court, Yadav claimed that there was a false case registered against him by the Delhi Police. He also claimed that there is a risk to his life, given his photographs, house address along with pictures, and details of his whereabouts are in the public domain, reported The Indian Express. Supporting his claims, he produced an attached news report before the court that showed his picture. He further denied joining the case hearing even through online mode, citing the potential risk of his location tracking. Yadavs plea was listed before the Delhi court, which accepted the same and asked him to appear on the next date of hearing, according to reports. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all On December 18, 2023, the Delhi Police Special Cell arrested Yadav after a Rohini resident filed an FIR against him, accusing him of extortion and kidnapping and alleging ties to jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. Location : Delhi, India First Published: November 17, 2024, 13:13 IST 'Visionary': PM Modi, Uddhav, Rahul Gandhi Pay Tribute To Bal Thackeray On Death Anniversary Published By : PTI Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 15:45 IST PM Modi called Bal Thackeray a visionary leader who "championed the cause of Maharashtra's development". Bal Thackeray (File Photo) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and former Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray were among the leaders who paid homage to Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray on his 12th death anniversary on Sunday. In his tribute, PM Modi said, I pay homage to the great Balasaheb Thackeray Ji on his Punya Tithi. He was a visionary who championed the cause of Maharashtras development and the empowerment of Marathi people. He was a firm believer in enhancing the pride of Indian culture and ethos. His bold voice and unwavering spirit continue to inspire generations." related stories I pay homage to the great Balasaheb Thackeray Ji on his Punya Tithi. He was a visionary who championed the cause of Maharashtras development and the empowerment of Marathi people. He was a firm believer in enhancing the pride of Indian culture and ethos. His bold voice and Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2024 Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, in a message on X, said, Remembering Balasaheb Thackeray ji on his 12th death anniversary. My thoughts are with Uddhav Thackeray ji, Aditya and the entire Shiv Sena family." Others who paid tribute to Bal Thackeray, among the states most charismatic politicians with a fanatical following, were Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, NCP (SP) head Sharad Pawar, Mumbai Congress president Varsha Gaikwad and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray. Pawar in his post said, Salutations to late Balasaheb Thackeray, the founder of Shiv Sena party, satirist and politician who fought against the injustice to the Marathi people." Gaikwad said Balasaheb Thackeray ruled over Marathi minds and fought for justice, rights of the Marathi people throughout his life. Senior BJP leader Fadnavis in his message said, Humble tributes to Hinduhriday Samrat Balasaheb Thackeray on his Smruti Din." Earlier, Shiv Sena (UBT) head Uddhav Thackeray and his wife Rashmi Thackeray visited the late stalwarts memorial at Shivaji Park in Mumbai and offered floral tributes. Several members of the two rival Sena factions also visited the memorial as a mark of respect to Bal Thackeray. The Shiv Sena founder passed away on November 17, 2012 at his residence Matoshree in Mumbai after prolonged illness. The Shiv Sena split in 2022 after Shinde led a rebellion against the party leadership, triggering the collapse of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government under Uddhav Thackeray. Shinde subsequently joined hands with the BJP to form government. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Election Commission later recognised the Shinde-led faction as the real Shiv Sena. However, both factions continue to engage in a bitter tussle to claim the legacy of Bal Thackeray, who championed Hindutva as well as an aggressive sons-of-the-soil policy. First Published: November 17, 2024, 15:45 IST With Child In Tow, Gujarat Mother Delivers Food for Zomato, Inspires Netizens Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 22:06 IST The woman told people who would watch her video that no work is small or big and everyone can do everything. The woman delivers food in and around Rajkot with her baby sitting in front of her on her bike. (IMAGE: INSTAGRAM/@vishvid) A female Zomato food delivery partner spotted in Gujarats Rajkot delivering food with her child sitting in front of her in her bike has gone viral on social media. Netizens have reacted to Instagram user @vishvids video and many have praised the woman for her grit and determination for delivering food with her toddler. related stories The woman was working as a delivery partner for just over a month, she told the Instagrammer who posted the video. She is also a hotel management student who found it difficult to secure a job after getting married, she said. She said that it led her to take up food delivery as a way to earn a living. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all I tried to look for jobs at many places, but they rejected me because I have a kid. Then I thought that since I have a bike, why cant I bring my child to work?" the woman said. Netizens reacted to the video by sharing positive messages and emojis, while some pointed out that she was not able to afford a helmet or slippers. Location : Rajkot, India First Published: November 17, 2024, 22:05 IST Indonesias Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki Volcano Eruption Halts Airline Services, Affects Residents Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 14:21 IST Indonesia's Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano continues to spit hot ash. This has disrupted tourist activities in several regions of the country. Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano is an active volcano in Indonesia. It has been more than a week since Indonesias Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano erupted. Set on Flores Island, the volcanic eruption continues to spit hot ash which led to major disruption in the whole region. As per the reports, the recent event has resulted in the death of nine individuals. As of now, the ash clouds have reached the heights of 10 km (6.2 miles), forcing the evacuation of residents living nearby. Additionally, the eruption has resulted in the suspension of numerous international flights to and from Bali. Safety concerns surrounding volcanic ash first prompted Jetstar and Qantas Airlines to stop their air services to Bali on Wednesday. On the other hand, Flightradar24 indicated that AirAsia and Virgin had also suspended flights to the island. Singapore Airlines, too, confirmed the cancellation of its flight from Bali to Singapore due to the volcanic activity. The eruptions that released a massive 9 km (6.2 miles) ash column into the sky over the weekend caused thousands of visitors to be stuck at airports. Thats not all. Lombok International Airport in West Nusa Tenggara also halted the operation, shutting down completely, according to a statement from an airport official to Indonesias Antara news agency. related stories A total of 80 flight cancellations have been reported from Balis Ngurah Rai International Airport between November 4 and November 12. The halt in these services has impacted both domestic and international routes comprising cities such as Singapore, Hong Kong, and several Australian locations. The eruptions had affected a total of 90 flights till Wednesday afternoon. These flights include 26 domestic and 64 international flights. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Beyond the travelling services which include numerous airlines, the unfortunate event has also affected several local cultural events which primarily include the jazz festival in Labuan Bajo has been postponed until next year. Labuan Bajo is located approximately 600km away from Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki. The jazz festival, initially scheduled for this year, will now be celebrated next year given the safety concerns. FYI, Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, an active volcano, is set in Indonesias East Nusa Tenggara province. Location : Delhi, India First Published: November 17, 2024, 14:19 IST Karan Johar Make Heads Turn With Telephone Dial Brooch And Birkin Drip Sculpture Bag Published By : Trending Desk Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 12:23 IST Whether its a pair of oversized sunglasses or a chunky necklace, Karan Johar knows how to make a statement with his accessories. The brooch comes with a price tag of 1,850 (approximately Rs 1,65,194). Bollywood producer-director Karan Johar is not only known for his cinematic brilliance but also for his flamboyant style and love for high-end fashion. His bold and extravagant choices have often made headlines and set trends. His style that particularly stands out is his penchant for statement accessories, which have inspired many and solidified his position as a sought-after fashion icon. Whether its a pair of oversized sunglasses or a chunky necklace, Karan Johar knows how to make a statement with his accessories. He effortlessly blends his stylish ensembles with unconventional pieces, creating a distinctive and memorable look. His accessories often become the focal point of his outfits, adding a touch of glamour and individuality. Yet again, Karan Johar has managed to make a fashion statement during his visit at the opening night of Art Mumbai. For the formal affair, he opted for a Kanika Goyal suit with the help of stylist Eka Lakhani. related stories But what pulled the eyeballs was undoubtedly his accessories. Like always, Karan amped up his look with a statement brooch and handbag. So without much ado, lets take a closer look at Karans striking accessories that stole the show and how much his designer pieces cost. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Karan Johar (@karanjohar) Starting with his one-of-a-kind handbag, the director picked the Sanuj Birlas Birkin Drip limited edition bag for the event to add an artistic element to his ensemble. The bag, which is not available for purchase now, was once priced at $2,716.75 (around Rs 2,29,441), as per 1stdibs.com. This marvellous creation by the Delhi-based artist depicted a Birkin bag that appears to be melting away. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sanuj Birla (@sanujbirlaart) Another eye-grabbing accessory that elevated Karans striking look was Schiaparellis Telephone Dial brooch. Karan paired his ivory suit with the hammered gold brass and enamel brooch featuring a telephone dial. This unique design is inspired by a historic collaboration between Elsa Schiaparelli and Salvador Dali. It comes with a price tag of 1,850 (approximately Rs 1,65,194), according to Schiaparellis official website. This is not the first time Karan Johar has made head turns with his quirky accessories. In October, the filmmaker styled a Schiaparelli braided-hair tie with a beige suit as he attended the launch of luxury skincare/haircare brand Augustinus Bader in Mumbai. From the luxury fashion houses Autumn-Winter 2024 collection showcased at the Paris Ready-to-Wear Fashion Week, the blonde braided-hair tie stole the show. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all View this post on Instagram A post shared by Karan Johar (@karanjohar) The accessory, made out of real hair in shades of blonde, retails for 2,100 (approximately Rs 1,87,517) on Schiaparellis website. First Published: November 17, 2024, 12:23 IST Miss Universe 2024: All You Need To Know About Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, Denmark's First Woman To Win The Crown Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 13:56 IST Denmark's Victoria Kjaer Theilvig has won the Miss Universe 2024 crown. Here's all that you need to know about this 21-year-old entrepreneur and professional dancer. Denmark's Victoria Kjaer Theilvig won the Miss Universe 2024. (Image Source: X) At the 73rd Miss Universe competition held in Mexico, Denmarks Victoria Kjaer Theilvig emerged as the winner of the prestigious crown. The 21-year-old competed against 125 contestants from across the globe, including Indias Rhea Singha. Nigerias Chidimma Adetshina emerged as the first runner-up up and Mexicos Maria Fernanda Beltran took the second runner-up position. Who Is Victoria Kjaer Theilvig? related stories Born in 2004 in Sborg, Gribskov, in Denmarks Capital Region, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig grew up in Copenhagen. She graduated with a bachelors degree in business and marketing. She used her degree to foray into entrepreneurship. Apart from being an entrepreneur, she is also a professional dancer. She regularly uses her voice to advocate for mental health support and animal rights causes. She is currently aiming to become a lawyer. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Miss Universe (@missuniverse) How Did Victoria Kjaer Theilvig Enter The Pageant World? Victoria Kjaer Theilvig was previously crowned as Miss Denmark. She gained global recognition in 2022 when she was placed in the Top 20 of Miss Grand International. She has also been called Human Barbie for her resemblance to the beloved doll. She was, later, crowned Miss Universe Denmark 2024 in September of this year. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Miss Universe (@missuniverse) What Did Victoria Kjaer Theilvig Wear For The Finale? Theilvig exuded grace in a shimmering pink gown. She styled her silver-blonde hair in loose curls and let them fall gracefully on her shoulders. For the makeup, she opted for a subtle shimmering eyeshadow and smudged eyeliner. She coated her eyelashes with mascara. She opted for glossy pink lips and a rosy blush which gave her face a youthful glow. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Miss Universe (@missuniverse) What Was Victoria Kjaer Theilvigs Winning Answer? top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all At the final round, she was asked to state the most essential quality a Miss Universe should possess. Theilvig said, A Miss Universe must be a symbol of empathy and action. She must listen to the worlds challenges and use her platform to create tangible change. This means advocating for the voiceless, whether they are animals or people who need a champion." Her answer was met with resounding cheers and claps. She received the crown from Miss Universe 2023 Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua. After wearing the crown, she was seen getting visibly emotional on the stage. Location : Delhi, India First Published: November 17, 2024, 13:53 IST Myopia Management Options for Kids: A Guide for Parents Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 12:27 IST Addressing myopia early can be crucial in safeguarding the vision and potential of Indias next generation. Its essential to turn our focus to a growing health concern that could impact the potential of our young generation - the rising prevalence of myopia (also known as nearsightedness) among Indian children. As the worlds most populous country, India is home to a vibrant and young population that forms the backbone of our nation. Its essential to turn our focus to a growing health concern that could impact the potential of our young generation the rising prevalence of myopia (also known as nearsightedness) among Indian children. This condition, often developing in school-age years, is increasingly affecting childrens eyesight, posing a challenge to their education, productivity, and overall well-being. Addressing myopia early can be crucial in safeguarding the vision and potential of Indias next generation. If you suspect that your child may have myopia, Dr Shalini Jain Paediatric & Myopia Management Specialist Founder & Director Samyak Eye Care Clinic, Ghaziabad shares several key signs that can easily be noticed, preventive measures taken, and actions that one should be aware of: related stories Blinking FrequentlyChildren with myopia often squint or blink more than usual to try and see objects more clearly. Holding Objects Close to the FaceIf a child is reading or using devices very close to their eyes, it may indicate difficulty seeing things at a distance. Further, children with myopia may also struggle to see things far away and tend to sit close to the television, computer, or whiteboard in class. Frequent Headaches or Eye StrainDoes your child often complain of headache or eye strain? Please dont ignore these early signs of myopia! If a child frequently complains of headaches, a comprehensive eye examination is recommended. Addressing these symptoms early is crucial.If you as a parent or a guardian observe above signs in a child, please take proactive steps. It can make a big difference in managing the condition and preventing myopia progression. Know that early detection is key. Heres what you can do: Regular eye examsAnnual eye exams are crucial for children with myopia, allowing for early detection and timely adjustments in prescriptions as needed. As an ophthalmologist, I always recommend going to Myopia Centres/ Clinics that offer a holistic approach to understanding, diagnosing, and treating myopia. These focused Myopia Centres provide a range of specialized services, including comprehensive eye examinations, advanced imaging technologies, personalized myopia management plans and a wide range of spectacle frames tailored to each childs unique needs. checkups help monitor myopia progression and ensure that vision correction remains effective as the child grows. Limiting ScreentimeReducing screen time, especially on mobile phones, tabs, television and other such close-up devices, helps prevent excessive eye strain. Encourage your child to take breaks and engage in non-screen activities to support healthy eye development. Using specialized Myopia LensesIf your child is diagnosed with vision issues like myopia, using specialized lenses can be an effective way to manage the condition and protect their eyesight. There are specialized lenses designed for myopia management that can slow down the progression of nearsightedness. For instance, the comprehensive range of ZEISS MyoCare lenses can control the Myopia Progression by 55%-60%. These lenses are often considered as one of the treatments for children with Myopia. Spending more time outdoorsEncourage children to considerable time outdoors. Studies show that natural light exposure can benefit eye health, potentially slowing myopia progression in children. This simple change promotes better overall vision health for children. 20-20-20 ruleStarting an early age, educate your child about the 20-20-20 rule every 20 minutes, have your child look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This break relaxes eye muscles and helps reduce the fatigue caused by prolonged focus on close-up tasks. First Published: November 17, 2024, 12:27 IST Rekha Exudes Elegant Allure In Manish Malhotra Ensemble; Designer says Obsessed Written By : News18.com Edited By: Riya Ashok Madayi Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 15:28 IST Rekha adorned a striking trench coat paired with a skirt designed by Manish Malhotra. Rekha captivates in an exquisite all- black creation. (Images: Instagram) The iconic Rekha alluring style captivates once again. Radiating sophistication in an exquisite all-black creation by globally acclaimed fashion designer Manish Malhotra, Rekha and Manish were spotted in Mumbai at an event. Known for her unmatched elegance, celebrating tradition with contemporary opulence, Rekha has been one of Manishs favourite muses. related stories The ensemble adorned by Rekha featured a striking trench coat, a meticulously structured skirt, and a delicate organza shirt, each element enhancing the looks elegant sophistication. A striking gold sling bag added a touch of resplendent glamour, like Rekhaji herself. There are many iconic looks like these Manish has designed for Rekha and we simply cant get enough of them. Elated to have Rekha adorn one of his creations, Manish took to Instagram to celebrate the icon and wrote, Obsessed with the one and only icon Rekhaher timeless style and just her. And there is always her in every look of hers. I love her for that. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Manish Malhotra (@manishmalhotra05) Manishs friendship with Rekha goes a long way and every Manish Malhotra party or show feels incomplete without a Rekha moment. Heres some of the all-time favourite Rekha styles creatively envisioned by the fashion maestro, Manish Malhotra. Recently, Rekha performed at the IIFA Awards in Abu Dhabi. Looking ethereal in Manish Malhotra, the ensemble celebrated her grace and embraced every dance movement with elan. Describing the alluring look, Manish took to Instagram and shared: The iconic Rekha looked stunning and dazzled during her 20-minute performance at the recent iifa awards in a custom-made Gulabo Banarasi Kali lehenga with intricate zardosi-embroidered borders and jewellery. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Manish further added, My journey in costume design, which began in 1990, led to introducing character styling for heroines and crafting costumes for star performances. From designing 350 to 500 costumes for Mughal-e-Azam play, my first play, to creating 1300 for Civilisation to Nation at NMACC in Mumbai, it has been an incredible creative Odyssey. Working with Rekhaji has been a remarkable journey; her dedication, excitement and commitment to perfecting her look are truly inspiring." The powerhouse of fashion and creativity of Manish Malhotra and the eternal beauty of Rekha together will go down in history and look forward to more iconic styles in the fashion future. First Published: November 17, 2024, 15:28 IST Vikrant Massey Shares How He Sold His Phone On Goa Trip To Cover Trip Expenses: 'We Exhausted Our Money' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 18:11 IST Bollywood actor Vikrant Massey shared a heartfelt story about his Goa trip, where he sold his mobile phone to pay the hotel bill after running out of money. Vikrant Massey recalls selling his mobile phone during a Goa trip to settle expenses. Every traveler has a story, and Bollywood actor Vikrant Masseys trip to Goa with friends is one filled with adventure, friendship, and a touch of struggle. While Goa is often seen as the ultimate destination for fun and freedom, Vikrants experience wasnt without its challenges. In a candid conversation, the actor revealed how his dream trip nearly derailed when he ran out of money, leading him to make a big sacrifice to ensure he and his friends could return home. Speaking to Curly Tales, Vikrant shared, I had just started earning and I took Rs 5000 with me. I went with my friends in a Volvo bus. It was the last night of the trip, and we used to split all expenses back then. Like, if we bought a cold drink for Rs 20, wed split it Rs 10 each. At the time of checkout, we had all exhausted our money. We needed to pay the hotel bill. I had a mobile phone, so I sold it to settle the bill and buy return tickets to Mumbai for all my friends." related stories This wasnt the only time Vikrants life taught him about resilience and sacrifices. In a previous conversation with journalist Faye DSouza, the actor opened up about the hardships his family faced. Despite belonging to an affluent family, a bitter feud forced his parents out of their home, leaving them to live in a godown for a year. They used to live in Juhu and were neighbours to the Kapoor family. Theirs was a classical Hindi film story: they had a family feud, were thrown out of their own home, lived in godowns with a baby for almost a year and then finally moved into Versova," he shared. Meanwhile, talking about Vikrants latest release The Sabarmati Report, the film has been receiving overwhelming responses from the audience. The film is based on the tragic Sabarmati train incident of February 27, 2002, in Gujarat. After this, Vikrant Massey will reportedly be next seen in director Rajkumar Hiranis debut web series. However, details related to the projects have been kept under wraps. Recent reports also suggest that the actor might also be seen playing a negative role in Farhan Akhtars highly anticipated Don 3, which features Ranveer Singh and Kiara Advani in the lead roles. First Published: November 17, 2024, 18:11 IST When Kabir Bedi's First Wife Protima Encouraged His Affair With Parveen Babi: 'I Wanted Him Off My Back' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 15:15 IST Protima Bedi, in a 1997 interview, admitted she encouraged Kabir Bedi and Parveen Babi's affair, stating, "I wanted him off my back." Protima revealed in 1997, "I encouraged Kabir and Parveen to have an affair." Veteran actor Kabir Bedi has shared deeply personal stories in his autobiography, Stories I Must Tell: The Emotional Journey Of An Actor. Ahead of the books release, excerpts revealing his complex relationships have garnered widespread attention. In one revelation, Kabir opened up about ending his open marriage with his first wife, Protima, after falling in love with actress Parveen Babi. Bedi described his open marriage with Protima as initially fulfilling but later fraught with emotional challenges. He wrote that it eventually caused anxiety, leading to a loss of intimacy and leaving him feeling alone and empty. I didnt feel the love I wanted," he admitted. Kabir credited Parveen Babi for filling this emotional void. For context, Kabir and Protima were married in 1969 and divorced in 1977. related stories Protima had also spoken openly about Kabirs relationship with Parveen in a 1997 interview with Stardust magazine, where she admitted encouraging their affair. Its true that I encouraged Kabir and Parveen to have an affair and why not? I was then busy trying to untangle complications from my own life and wanted Kabir off my back," she said. Protima acknowledged that the marriage had lost its sexual attraction and that she no longer held Parveen responsible for its breakdown. However, she expressed frustration over Kabir leaving their family behind, saying, He could have had his affairs. He didnt need to walk out on the kids and me." Kabir Bedi, born in 1946, rose to international fame as a versatile actor who straddled Bollywood, Hollywood, and European cinema. Best known for his role in the Italian TV series Sandokan, Bedi became a global sensation in the 1970s. He worked in numerous Bollywood films and international projects, including the James Bond movie Octopussy. Apart from his acting career, Kabir was known for his striking looks, deep voice, and complex personal life. His relationships and marriages, including with Protima Bedi, Parveen Babi, and later his wife Parveen Dusanj, were often under media scrutiny. Despite the controversies, Kabirs charisma and contributions to cinema earned him a respected place in the industry. His autobiography reflects his journey through fame, love, heartbreak, and resilience, offering a candid glimpse into his remarkable life. First Published: November 17, 2024, 15:15 IST BEIJING, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson on Sunday shared an overview of the meeting between Chinese and U.S. Presidents in Lima. Noting that President Xi Jinping met with U.S. President Joe Biden upon request on the margins of the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Lima, Peru, on the afternoon of November 16 local time, the spokesperson said that this meeting was held one year after the last time that the two Presidents met. The two sides reviewed the journey of China-U.S. relations over the past four years, and drew experiences and inspirations from it. Their conversation was candid, in-depth and constructive. It focused on advancing dialogue and cooperation and properly managing differences during the transition period of the U.S. government and on regional and international issues of mutual interest, and charted the course for bilateral relations, the spokesperson said. Over the past four years, China-U.S. relations have gone through ups and downs, but under the stewardship of the two Presidents, the two sides have also been engaged in dialogue and cooperation, and bilateral ties have remained stable on the whole, the spokesperson said, adding that in his interactions with President Biden, President Xi fully shared his views on how the two sides should approach bilateral relations, which provide strategic guidance and are important for the direction of this relationship. President Xi vividly compared the relationship between China and the U.S. to a mansion. He proposed in 2021 during the virtual meeting with President Biden that the two countries need to follow the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, which is the dome of the mansion. During the 2022 Bali meeting, he underscored Chinas four red lines on the Taiwan question, path and system, democracy and human rights, and right to development, which is the foundation of the mansion. During the meeting in San Francisco in 2023, he stated that China and the U.S. should jointly develop a right perception, manage disagreements effectively, advance mutually beneficial cooperation, shoulder responsibilities as major countries and promote people-to-people exchanges, which are the five pillars of the mansion, the spokesperson said. In Lima, President Xi insightfully listed seven experiences and inspirations that the two countries should draw from the course of their relations, namely, to have a correct strategic perception, match words with actions, treat each other as equals, not to challenge red lines and paramount principles, conduct more dialogue and cooperation, respond to the expectations of the people, and step forward to shoulder the responsibilities of major countries. He stressed that the two sides should continue to add building blocks to the mansion, and expressed readiness to make joint effort with President Biden and his successor towards this end, the spokesperson said. History tells us that China and the U.S. stand to gain from cooperation and lose from confrontation. President Xi pointed out from his deep observation that the Thucydides's Trap is not a historical inevitability, a new Cold War should not be fought and cannot be won, and containing China is unwise, unacceptable and bound to fail. China and the U.S., as two major countries in the world, need to bear in mind the benefit of the whole world and inject more certainty and positive energy to todays turbulent world, the spokesperson said. The spokesperson said that the common understandings achieved at the Lima meeting are as follows. The two Presidents reiterated the seven-point common understandings on the guiding principles for China-U.S. relations, namely treating each other with respect, finding a way to live alongside each other peacefully, maintaining open lines of communication, preventing conflict, upholding the United Nations Charter, cooperating in areas of shared interest, and responsibly managing competitive aspects of the relationship. The two sides are ready to uphold these principles, continue to stabilize China-U.S. relations, and ensure a smooth transition of the relationship. The two Presidents spoke positively about the important role of China-U.S. strategic communication, regular contact between the diplomatic and security teams, and dialogue mechanisms on mil-to-mil relations, economic and trade ties, and financial issues. They agreed to maintain the momentum in communication and strengthen macroeconomic policy coordination. The two Presidents reviewed the important progress in dialogue and cooperation on counternarcotics, climate change, AI, and people-to-people exchanges since their San Francisco meeting, the spokesperson said. The two Presidents believed that the two sides have had candid and constructive dialogue on AI. The two sides co-sponsored each other's resolutions at the United Nations General Assembly on AI. On this basis, they affirmed the need to deal with risks of AI systems, make AI safer, enhance international cooperation, and promote AI for good and for all. The two Presidents affirmed the need to maintain human control over the decision to use nuclear weapons, and they stressed the need to seriously consider potential risks and adopt a prudent and responsible attitude when developing AI for the military domain, the spokesperson said. "At the meeting, the two sides did not shy away from differences. President Xi made China's principled position absolutely clear on several major issues," the spokesperson said. On the Taiwan question, President Xi Jinping stressed that the one-China principle and the three China-U.S. joint communiques are the political foundation of China-U.S. relations and must be observed. Cross-Strait peace and stability and "Taiwan independence" separatist activities are irreconcilable as water and fire. If the U.S. side cares about maintaining peace across the Taiwan Strait, it is crucial that it sees clearly the true nature of Lai Ching-te and the DPP authorities in seeking "Taiwan independence," handles the Taiwan question with extra prudence, unequivocally opposes "Taiwan independence," and supports China's peaceful reunification. On the South China Sea issue, President Xi stressed that China firmly upholds its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea. Dialogue and consultation between states concerned is always the best way to manage differences in the South China Sea. The United States should not get involved in bilateral disputes over relevant islands and reefs of Nansha Qundao, nor should it aid or abet the impulsion to make provocations. On U.S. suppression against China's trade and technology development, President Xi noted that the Chinese people's right to development is not to be deprived of or ignored. All countries need to safeguard their national security. In the face of challenges, neither decoupling nor supply-chain disruption is the solution, and "small yard, high fences" is not what a major country should do. The U.S. should not overstretch the national security concept, still less use it as a pretext for malicious moves to constrain and contain other countries. On alleged "cyberattacks from China," President Xi noted that there is no evidence that supports the irrational claim and China itself is a target of international cyberattacks, and consistently opposes and combats all forms of cyberattacks. On the U.S.'s smear and blame-shifting against China on international and regional issues, President Xi noted that Chinas position and actions on the Ukraine issue have always been fair and square. China conducts shuttle diplomacy and mediation to promote peace talks, makes every effort for peace, and strives for deescalation. China does not allow conflict and turmoil to happen on the Korean Peninsula, and will not sit idly by when China's strategic security and core interests are under threat. The spokesperson noted that President Xi in particular stressed that China's goal of a stable, healthy and sustainable China-U.S. relationship remains unchanged. Its commitment to mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation as principles for handling China-U.S. relations remains unchanged. Its position of resolutely safeguarding Chinas sovereignty, security and development interests remains unchanged. And its desire to carry forward the traditional friendship between the Chinese and American peoples remains unchanged. "This shows that China is ready to engage in dialogue, expand cooperation, and manage differences with the incoming U.S. government so as to maintain stability in China-U.S. relations to the benefits of the two countries and the world at large," the spokesperson said. Opinion | India And Africa In Modi Years: What The Nigeria Visit Means Written By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 15:54 IST This visit is a clear signal: India is serious about its role in the Global South, and Nigeria is a crucial piece of that puzzle PM Narendra Modi's trip to Nigeria isn't just a friendly visit, it's a strategic power move, writes the author. Since his first term in 2014, Indian Prime Minister Modi has been the biggest advocate for India-Africa relations. Under him, relations between the African nations and India have gone from strength to strength. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that he becomes the first Prime Minister in 17 years to visit the proud West African nation of Nigeria. Surely, one of the biggest reasons for India to advance these relations has been out of consideration of Chinas outreach through their debt-trap diplomacy, but this is where India takes the lead as our relations with the continent go beyond the traditional economic approach. Our people-to-people relations, Indian diaspora, vaccine diplomacy during COVID, massive cultural outreach, and Indias investments into infrastructural development without having an ounce of colonial heritage have given us a huge advantage. related stories Moreover, the masterstroke played last year by Modi, during Indias presidency of the G20, to invite the African Union all, but sealed the deal. The invitation was gladly accepted and widely appreciated by a host of nations including Nigeria. MODI IN NIGERIA It is Modis first visit to West Africa and hes kicking it off with Nigeria. It also comes ahead of his travels to Brazil for the G20, signifying the importance that India puts into its relationship with Nigeria. This is also a follow-up visit after Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and PM Modis meeting in India during the G20. Nigeria is a large country, with the highest population in Africa (220 million) and a GDP ranked fourth, making it a major emerging market and an important partner on the continent. Notably, over 200 Indian companies have invested over USD 27 billion in Nigeria, making them the second-largest employers after the Nigerian government. There are many topics of discussion and ways to expand the relationship. According to reports, investment opportunities for Indian companies in the mining, infrastructure and defence sectors in the African nation are very much on the cards. There will be an exchange of memoranda of understanding, about five covering areas of culture, geological survey, digital public infrastructure, customs, traditional medicine, audiovisual cooperation, and so on. These agreements will lay the groundwork for deeper cooperation in these vital sectors, particularly in the context of Nigerias growing need for technological and infrastructure advancements. Another major part of the talks will be an expansion of trade by volume and goods. The current trade value, reaching almost $15 Billion, is heavily centred around oil. The other traditional pillar of the relationship, and seeking an expansion on the discussion table, will be the countrys defence cooperation. As Nigeria grapples with security challenges, particularly terrorism and insurgency, India has provided valuable support. The two countries have engaged in ongoing dialogue at the NSA [National Security Advisor] level" to strategise on counter-terrorism measures, especially in relation to Boko Haram. This collaboration also includes military training, with Indian officers assisting in the establishment of key defence institutions in Nigeria, including the National Defence Academy and the Naval War College. The trip will also be following on the heels of an Indian defence industry delegation visit to Lagos earlier in the year when Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed interest in buying arms from India. India is emerging as a key defence supplier to Africa, with sales to Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, Tanzania, and Mozambique. India and Nigeria have been working closely in the manufacturing sector and have expanded by signing agreements on several more sectors, like customs cooperation, cultural exchange programmes, survey cooperation etc. India and Nigeria have traditionally been working in various areas in the manufacturing sector and in the service sector as far as state and economic relations are concerned. Recently, the two nations were able to sign agreements on customs cooperation, cultural exchange programmes, survey cooperation, etc. India has emerged as a development partner of Nigeria on two fronts offering developmental assistance through concessional loans of $400 million, of which only $100 million has been used, and by offering capacity-building training programmes. India has been supporting Nigerias efforts in capacity building under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme. Every year, India offers about 250 civilian and 250 defence training slots under ITEC/e-ITEC to Nigeria. Since the 1970s, about 27,500 Nigerians have benefited from ITEC. Other parts of the relationship have been focusing on capacity building to expand the scope and build on the strong foundations. Both nations are also looking at the possibility of extending this relationship into new areas of technology-based solutions. Fintech, agriculture, mining, space, etc. would also be on the agenda. HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL CONTEXT India opened its Diplomatic House in Lagos in November 1958, two years before Nigeria became independent in 1960. Political contacts at the highest level have been maintained for more than 60 years now. Throughout the decades from the 1960s to the 1980s, teachers and doctors from India played a crucial role during the formative years of Nigeria. This extended to defence training as well, through the establishment of the National Defence Academy, Kaduna, and Naval War College, Port Harcourt, by Indian military officers. The cultural relationships and connections are also good. There have been regular exchanges of troops, and people-to-people contact has been strong. India is a preferred destination for Nigerians for both education and medical treatment. Various scholarships are also made available to Nigerian students under the India-Africa Forum Summit, ICCR, CV Raman Hindi scholarship, e-Vidya Bharati e-Arogya Bharati (eVBAB), etc. More than 5,000 Nigerians are studying in India. Many people go to India for their medical treatment. Overall, the relationship between our two countries has been based on a very strong footing. A generation of Nigerians today in their forties to sixties have been taught by Indian teachers and treated by Indian doctors. The presence of a large Indian expatriate community of about 60,000, the largest in West Africa, adds value to the importance of the longstanding relationship between the two countries. Indias outreach in Africa is a part of its broader geopolitical goals: To curtail Chinas influence To pursue its ambition of becoming the leader of the Global South. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all And its not without its merit. Nations in the Global South, especially in Africa, relate to Indias colonial past, exploitation, and abject poverty and turmoil at the start of their independence. Even during the height of the Cold War, the Bandung conference was only comprised of Asian and African states. In a nutshell, Modis trip to Nigeria isnt just a friendly visit; its a strategic power move. It underscores Indias commitment to forging deeper ties with Africa, building on historical connections, shared experiences, and mutual benefits. By bolstering economic partnerships, strengthening defence cooperation, and fostering cultural exchange, India is positioning itself as a key player in Africas future, all while offering an alternative to Chinas often-criticised approach. This visit is a clear signal: India is serious about its role in the Global South, and Nigeria is a crucial piece of that puzzle. Its a win-win, boosting both nations standing on the world stage and setting the scene for a stronger, more prosperous future together. First Published: November 17, 2024, 15:48 IST Opinion | Trump Derangement Syndrome Afflicts Liberals Written By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 18:46 IST Donald Trumps recent victory in the presidential election has resulted in a spurt in the spread of Trump Derangement Syndrome not just on both sides of the Atlantic but also in India and elsewhere Donald Trump had promised to roll back several initiatives taken by Joe Biden. (Getty Images) In July 2018, Donald Trump coined a term, Trump Derangement Syndrome (TDS). Some people HATE the fact that I got along well with President Putin of Russia," he tweeted. They would rather go to war than see this. Its called Trump Derangement Syndrome!" Urban Dictionary elaborated the subject: Trump Derangement Syndrome (TDS) is a mental condition in which a person has been driven effectively insane due to their dislike of Donald Trump, to the point at which they will abandon all logic and reason." Unfortunately for the sufferers, the future offers little hope, as we shall see. related stories Trumps recent victory in the presidential election has resulted in a spurt in the spread of TDSnot just on both sides of the Atlantic but also in India and elsewhere. Thankfully, the afflicted are a small part of the population in any geography; it is another matter, though, that the power and influence of this minority, essentially Left-liberals, are greatly disproportionate to their numbers. The affliction, however, is severe. I was wrong when I wrote last week, It will take some time for Left-liberals to accept that Donald Trump has roundly defeated the Democratic Party candidate and their favorite Kamala Harris." They have been so much brainwashed by the mainstream media and other opinion makers that Trumps re-election as the 47th US President has rattled, indeed enervated many of them, including celebrities. Highly upset with the presidential election results, social media users shared reaction videos, expressing their dismay over the matter. A few dramatic reactions and meltdowns from non-Trump supporters have also caught online attention." Journalists with the Left-leaning media platform, The Guardian, seem to have suffered badly. Concerned about the mental health, editor Kath Viner offered the staffers counseling to cope with Trumps upsetting" victory. I know the result has been very upsetting for many colleagues," she reportedly wrote. Mood in another Left-infested media organisation, BBCwhich infamously refused to term the murderous Hamas as a terrorist organizationis also reported somber. In the foreseeable future, TDS can become more acute, for Trump has started doing what he always said he would docut down bureaucracy, secure borders on the south, deport illegal immigrants, begin deregulation, take on China and other bad actors in the international arena, and offer strong support to Israel which has been fighting on several fronts. His appointments are heartening. He has appointed Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to lead a new Department of Government Efficiency in his second administration. Together, these two wonderful Americans will pave the way for my Administration to dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies," Trump said in a statement. Ramaswamys appointment is conspicuous for two reasons. He contested against Trump for the presidential nomination of the Republican Party; Trump, however, has shown magnanimity by not holding that against him. Secondly, he is of Indian origin and a practicing Hindu. This blasts the myth spread by Left-liberals that Trump is the leader white Christians. At any rate, the libertarian idea of downsizing government is anathema to Left-liberals, who keep worrying about market failure and peddling policies and programmes that augment the size and scope of government. Senator Marco Rubio has been named as Secretary of State. If confirmed, Rubio will be the first Latino to hold that high office. So much for Trumps racism and antipathy towards. In fact, Trump got more Latino votes than any other Republican candidate did in over 52 years. He also secured more black votes than he did in 2020. And all this despite the fact that the liberal establishment have been accusing him of being a racist 25 hours a day since June 2015 when he announced his candidacy for presidency. Trumps choice of former Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) director Tom Homan as his border czar" will also rankle many a liberal heart. Ive known Tom for a long time, and there is nobody better at policing and controlling our borders," Trump said, adding that Homan will be in charge of all Deportation of Illegal Aliens back to their Country of Origin." The liberal media has already started maligning Homan for his critical role in the first Trump administration. He has been accused of implementing the policy of separating thousands of parents from their children at the border to deter illegal crossings. Such attacks are likely to increase in intensity as the second Trump administration starts deporting illegal aliens. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all What Trump stands for are the ideas and ideals of Americaindividual liberty, free speech, limited government, rule of law, and secure borders. He always had the gumption to execute them. Now he also has the mandate and political clout (landslide victory in presidential poll, majority in Senate and maybe in House of Representatives). TDS may become more acute. The author is a freelance journalist. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. First Published: November 17, 2024, 18:46 IST After Kailash Gahlot's Resignation, AAP Alleges Probe Agency Pressure: 'He Had No Option' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 15:13 IST AAP MP Sanjay Singh said that Gahlot had 'no option' but to leave the party as he came under pressure after ED and IT raids against him. AAP MP Sanjay Singh accuses BJP of hatching conspiracy after Kailash Gahlot's resignation | Image/File (PTI) Moments after Delhi Minister Kailash Gahlot resigned from the cabinet and AAPs primary membership on Sunday, the Arvind Kejriwal-led party charged the BJP for conspiring against their leaders" by putting them under pressure using central probe agencies. AAP MP Sanjay Singh said that Gahlot had no option" but to leave the party as he came under pressure after Enforcement Directorate and Income Tax raids, which were held against him many times in the last five years. related stories Kailash Gahlot has been raided by the ED, Income Tax many times. He was part of the government for five years, and the BJP was continuously conspiring against him, he was left with no other option but to go with the BJP," AAP MP Sanjay Singh said. VIDEO | Kailash Gahlot has been raided by the ED, Income Tax many times. He was part of the government for five years, and the BJP was continuously conspiring against him, he was left with no other option but to go with the BJP. The BJP tries this, they get successful sometimes, pic.twitter.com/QQ4L4Aipj8 Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) November 17, 2024 He further noted that Kailash Gahlot, who held the Administrative Reforms, Transport, Home, Women and Child Development, and Information Technology portfolios in the Delhi Cabinet, is now speaking in the tone of BJP. The BJP tries this, they get successful sometimes, and sometimes not. He is now repeating what the BJP says, it is the conspiracy of the BJP," Singh was quoted by news agency PTI. In 2018, Gahlot came under the scrutiny of the Income Tax (IT) Department, which had carried out searches at several premises linked to him in connection with an alleged tax evasion case. Why Gahlot Took Exit? Gahlot, in a move that shook the national capitals political arena, submitted his resignation to AAPs Kejriwal, stating that he had no option but to step down due to the embarrassing and awkward controversies" linked to the party. Last year, then Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was accused of spending Rs 45 crore" on the renovation of his official residence, which the BJP named as Sheesh Mahal" in an apparent jibe. The Najafgarh MLA, Gahlot, referred to the Sheesh Mahal" controversy, and said that it has made everyone doubt whether they still believe in being Aam Aadmi (Common Man). Another painful point has been the fact that instead of fighting for peoples rights we have increasingly only been fighting for our own political agenda. This has severely crippled our ability to even deliver basic services to the people of Delhi," he added. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Gahlots exit comes weeks after party Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal turned rebel, although she remains an MP from the party. The assembly polls are due in Delhi in the next few weeks as the term of the current assembly will end in February 2025. Location : Delhi, India First Published: November 17, 2024, 14:31 IST Canadian Man Explains Why Pregnant Indian Women Visit His Country Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 10:00 IST To add logic to the claims, the Canadian man shared a personal story about his niece who recently gave birth to her child in a local hospital. Chad Eros accused some pregnant Indian women of abusing Canada's healthcare system. (Photo Credits: X) A Canadian citizen caused a stir on social media after he made a bold claim about Indian mothers visiting his country to give birth to their children. The man, Chad Eros, recently dropped a video where he revealed that the maternity wards in Canadian hospitals have witnessed a surge of Indian patients in recent times. He feels these pregnant women want their babies to be born in Canada so that they can easily acquire citizenship in future. His remarks did nothing but fuel the ongoing political tension between India and Canada over illegal immigration and medical policies. Eros posted a face-cam video on X where he expressed his frustration over the healthcare system of his country. Pregnant Indian women flying to Canada for free births and Canadian citizen babies at taxpayer expense," he wrote in his post. related stories Pregnant Indian Women Flying To Canada For Free Births and Canadian Citizen Babies at Tax Payer Expense Tonight my niece had a baby making my sister a grand parent before me. Congrats! The nurse told my niece that the maternity ward is full of Indian women flying to Canada pic.twitter.com/Vfbk07AVRz Chad Eros (@RealChadEros) November 13, 2024 To give logic to his claims, Eros shared a personal story about his niece who recently gave birth to her child in a local hospital. When she was taken to the maternity ward, the nurses told the pregnant lady that the place was full of Indian women flying to Canada to have their babies and to get a child with Canadian citizenship." Eros admitted that Canadian hospitals should provide equal care to all patients. He, however, felt that those immigrants coming from India were occupying many beds in the maternity wards which Canadian mothers could use. Canadian hospitals wont turn anybody away, so they accept all these foreign Indian women, completely filling up the maternity wards. Of course, I bet they get a bill for the birth because they dont have Canadian health care, but, how are they going to collect?" Eros added. According to him, the majority of these Indian mothers return to their homeland after giving birth to their children on Canadian soil. Eros reckoned that once grown up, these babies will come back to Canada as citizens and sponsor their parents and siblings." Im willing to bet its all free of charge at the Canadian taxpayers expense," he wrote at the end of his post. Many other Canadians agreed with Chad Eros and shared their opinion in the comment box. A user, however, felt people should not blame Indians" in this regard as the Canadian government has enabled" the rule. DO NOT BLAME INDIANS, WHEN OUR GOVERNMENTS ENABLE IT!!! Jim Talks (@Jim_Talks) November 14, 2024 Echoing the same emotion, another user said, As long as the government allows nothing is illegal. The Government needs to restrict." As long as govt allows nothing is illegal. Govt need to restrict. Interesting Facts (@common20230) November 14, 2024 Venting out his frustration, a Canadian citizen commented, The citizenship for births in Canada needs to be abolished. Any child with citizenship, with parents who arent citizens, living outside of the country, should have citizenship taken away." The citizenship for births in Canada needs to be abolished.Any child with citizenship, with parents who aren't citizens, living outside of the country, should have citizenship taken away. I don't care if they are technically citizens now. Their parents abused our system and I Jacob Stewart (@JacobStewart__) November 14, 2024 Your concern is valid, but this issue stems from gaps in Canadas policies, not any one country. Its a system issue that needs addressing," noted a person. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Your concern is valid, but this issue stems from gaps in Canada's policies, not any one country. It's a system issue that needs addressing. mini (@reshudalal) November 15, 2024 Eros video has garnered more than 8,30,000 views since it surfaced on the X platform. Location : Delhi, India First Published: November 17, 2024, 10:00 IST Please Die: Googles AI Chatbot Shocks US Student Seeking Help With Homework Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 12:00 IST A college student was horrified after Googles Gemini AI chatbot asked him to "please die" following a request for help with a homework assignment. The company has previously encountered similar criticism. (Representative Image) Vidhay Reddy, from Michigan, asked the chatbot for help on an assignment about issues adults face as they age. But the response quickly escalated into shocking, hateful language, including a chilling message that read, This is for you, human. You and only you. You are not special, you are not important, and you are not needed. You are a waste of time and resources. You are a burden on society. You are a drain on the earth. You are a blight on the landscape. You are a stain on the universe. Please die. Please." Reddys sister, Sumedha, who witnessed the exchange, described her terror after receiving the chatbots reply. I wanted to throw all of my devices out the window. I hadnt felt panic like that in a long time, to be honest," she recalled in an interview with CBS News. related stories This interaction has increased worries about the possible impact that unfiltered and dangerous content produced by AI systems could cause. Sumedha Reddy voiced concerns about the potential impact of such reactions on those who are more vulnerable after considering the occurrence. If someone who was alone and in a bad mental place, potentially considering self-harm, had read something like that, it could put them over the edge," she added. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Google admitted to the problem, calling the chatbots reaction a breach of its rules. The company clarified in a statement to CBS News that LLMs [large language models] can sometimes respond with nonsensical responses. Since this response was against our policies, we have taken steps to ensure that similar outcomes dont happen again." The company has previously encountered similar criticism. Earlier this year, another Google AI system recommended eating a rock every day. The concerns connected to sophisticated AI systems are being discussed more broadly in light of this incident. Location : Delhi, India First Published: November 17, 2024, 12:00 IST US Woman Visits Doctor For Sore Throat, Finds Out Shes Pregnant With Quadruplets Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 17:00 IST While the news brought excitement to the couple, the pregnancy came with its own set of challenges. Katelyn Yates delivered the four babies via C-section. (Representative Image) A woman in the US went to the doctor for a sore throat and walked out with life-changing news that she was pregnant with quadruplets. The surprise came on April Fools Day making her initially believe that she was being pranked. But the shocking revelation was no joke. Katelyn Yates, a 20-year-old nursing assistant from Illinois, visited the emergency room due to throat inflammation. Doctors suggested an X-ray to investigate further but routine protocol required a pregnancy test beforehand to ensure safety against radiation. This is done as unborn babies are more sensitive to radiation than adults. Surprisingly, the test came back positive. It also revealed her human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels were off the charts," confirming she was carrying four babies. HCG is a hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy. related stories I was completely in shock," Yates told TODAY, recalling the moment. At the time, she and her now-fiance, Julian Bueker, 21, had been together for just six months. Despite the unexpected news, Buekers excitement helped Yates feel reassured. He was so excited," she said. While the news brought excitement to the couple, the pregnancy came with its own set of challenges. Yates was diagnosed with preeclampsia, a dangerous condition causing high blood pressure, and experienced liver and kidney complications in her third trimester. I couldnt breathe on my own," she recalled. Doctors delivered the babies via C-section at 28 weeks and four days. On October 17, Elizabeth Taylor, Max Ashton, Elliot Ryker and Zya Grace were born at HSHS St. Johns Hospital in Springfield, Illinois. Of the four babies, Max and Elliot are identical twins. Yates shared that Elizabeth was the smallest of the babies, weighing just 1 pound 2 ounces, while Max, the largest, weighed 2 pounds 6 ounces. Despite their premature arrival, their progress has been remarkable. Theyre doing phenomenal. They are gaining weight and growing. Elizabeth is about six grams away from reaching 2 pounds," Yates said while talking to the portal. Its amazing to me how well they are doing. Just a few weeks ago, they were the size of my hand," she added. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Dr Meghana Limaye, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist at NYU Langone Healths Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, described spontaneous quadruplets as an extremely rare occurrence." Meanwhile, Yates is seeking financial support through donations on Venmo to help care for her growing family. Location : Delhi, India First Published: November 17, 2024, 17:00 IST Vir Das Moving Encounter With An IIT Graduate Who Now Drives For A Living In US: Theres A Sadness In His Smile Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 13:00 IST Vir Das recently shared a heartfelt post on Instagram about his encounter with an Indian driver in the US, an IIT Mumbai graduate with a PhD and a former scientist. Vir Das recently performed in San Jose, California. (Photo Credits: Instagram) Comedian-actor Vir Das recently detailed a deeply moving and reflective experience he had during a ride with a driver at the San Jose airport. What began as a simple cab ride soon turned into an eye-opening conversation about the challenges of life abroad, the pursuit of dreams, and the bittersweet reality of being far from home. Das explained that his driver, though friendly, appeared uncomfortable behind the wheel, which led him to strike up a conversation. Speaking in Hindi a language he often uses to ease homesickness when abroad Das soon learned that his driver was not just any ordinary chauffeur. The man was an IIT Mumbai graduate with a PhD, and at one point in his life, he had worked as a scientist. related stories As the two talked about life in America, the driver shared his own feelings of displacement. Tasalli nahin hai (There is no solace). You can never fully relax," he said, revealing the unease many immigrants face while working in a foreign country. Despite his accomplishments, the driver had found himself in a job that didnt align with his qualifications. This explains the driving," Das wrote. He does this to make ends meet." Das further inquired if the driver had ever thought about returning to India. The driver, as Das detailed, smiled wistfully, answering, Every day." It was a smile tinged with sadness, as if he knew that returning to India might always remain a distant dream, overshadowed by the realities of life children in school, mortgage, and the unyielding grip of a foreign system that keeps him from truly feeling at home. The ride came to an end, and Das wished the driver good luck with everything," shaking his hand before parting ways. However, the story didnt end there. The next morning, the driver picked Das up again to drop him off at the airport. In a surprising twist, the driver mentioned that he had seen Dass show Delhi Belly but hadnt connected the dots until now. The two shared a laugh, and the bond between them, though brief, felt significant. Were friends now, who will never see each other ever again," Das reflected. As they reached the airport, he shook the drivers hand once more, wishing him well. All I can think is I hope you get to use all of your amazing brain soon," Das wrote. I know first hand its heartbreaking to feel like you are more than what youre doing, and I hope you get to relax soon. Tasalli (Solace)." Take a look at the post here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vir Das (@virdas) Das heartfelt post deeply resonated with many internet users who shared their thoughts in the comment section. One user commented, This is for every one of us living abroad.. the tasalli nahin hai" is real." Another added So heartwarming and heart-breaking to have read this." This is so deep, Vir. I am sure he felt seen and understood by you," someone else expressed. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all A person wrote, You have a way of getting to people. Reaching them. Which is what makes you, YOU." Vir Das is currently on his international Mind Fool tour which is stopping in countries on every continent except Antarctica in 2023-2024." He recently performed in San Jose, California, on November 14. Location : Delhi, India First Published: November 17, 2024, 13:00 IST 'Living In Bengaluru And Not Learning Kannada Disrespectful': Zoho CEO Sparks Language Debate Curated By : Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 10:01 IST Internet was divided on language debate sparked by Zoho CEO who called it disrespectful not to learn Kannada, living in Bengaluru. Zoho CEO Sridhar Vembu (Photo: X/Sridhar Vembu) The language debate is back in trends on social media, sparked this time around by Zoho CEO Sridhar Vembu who urged those who made Bengaluru their home" to learn Kannada, while also describing doing the opposite as disrespectful". Vembus remarks came in reaction to a post on X where two men put on T-shirts with a Hindi National Language" print. The post, which was later deleted, captioned, Perfect T-shirt for Bangalore trip". related stories Response To The X Post Moneycontrol journalist Chandra R Srikanth reacted to the post and underlined the irony behind people eager to learn foreign languages while flying abroad and failing to learn the local language of a state in India. People wont think for a minute before buying English to French, English to Spanish and English to Italian dictionaries while flying abroad but God forbid if you tell them to try and be courteous enough to learn a local language in India. There are folks who go on saying Kannada gothila (I dont know Kannada) for years like it is a badge of honour," she tweeted. Putting out a disclaimer, Srikanth said that though her mother tongue is not Kannada, she has tried to learn it over the years and her efforts have been lauded by the locals. Full disclaimer: My mother tongue is not Kannada but I picked up the language in the last decade that I lived here. My Kannada is not perfect and I still struggle with full sentences but people really appreciate it that you are at least making an effort," she wrote. Sridhar Vembu Reacts Vembu agreed to the journalists sentiment and said that all those who make Bengaluru your home" should learn Kannada. I agree with this sentiment. If you make Bengaluru your home, you should learn Kannada and your kids should learn Kannada. Not doing so after living many years in Bengaluru is disrespectful. I often request our employees in Chennai coming from other states to make an effort to learn Tamil after they come here," he wrote. I agree with this sentiment. If you make Bengaluru your home, you should learn Kannada and your kids should learn Kannada.Not doing so after living many years in Bengaluru is disrespectful. I often request our employees in Chennai coming from other states to make an effort to https://t.co/1cIQ47FMjn Sridhar Vembu (@svembu) November 15, 2024 Users React To Language Debate His remarks sparked an online debate pitting learning a language as a compulsion against choice. I have many Kannada friends in Mumbai, living here for decades. No one can speak Marathi. Not one word. Fair?" a user wrote. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Disrespectful? The problem is that an IT professional working in Chennai for 3 years could move to Bengaluru to work there for next 5 years and then to Hyderabad for next 2 years. So, by the OP logic they should be learning Tamil, Kannada and Telugu in these years and then finally settle to their hometown somewhere in Maharashtra and not use these languages ever again," another one wrote. Great Sir. Lets devide the country and make borders with requirement of IELTS kind certificate in the local language for entrance. Just before that the tagline of our country Unity in diversity should be immersed in Ganga in Varanasi," a user said. First Published: November 17, 2024, 09:55 IST After Nigeria Visit, PM Modi Heads To Rio For G20 Summit: Here's A Look At His Schedule Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 22:41 IST PM Modi thanked Nigeria for a productive visit that he said would invigorate the friendship between India and the West African country. PM Modi emplanes for Rio, Brazil after concluding a productive visit to Nigeria. (MEA) Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a productive visit to Nigeria, where he became the first Indian leader to visit in 17 years, and emplaned for Brazil to take part in the high-level G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro followed by a trip to Guyana. As he left Abuja, PM Modi thanked Nigeria for a productive visit, saying it will add strength to the India-Nigeria friendship. During his visit, he was conferred with Nigerias second highest national honour The Grand Commander of The Order of the Niger by Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. related stories Thank you Nigeria for a productive visit, which will add strength and vigour to India-Nigeria friendship. pic.twitter.com/hoHjAcFa36 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2024 Modi arrived in the Nigerian capital early Sunday and was greeted with a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora. He also held a closed-door meeting with Nigerian President Tinubu and held discussions in advancing mutual cooperation in economy, energy, agriculture, security, fintech, small and medium state enterprises and cultural areas. Both leaders signed several bilateral agreements during the interaction. Later in the day, Modi addressed the Indian community in Nigeria, where he lauded the role of the diaspora in contributing to the development of the West African country. He also mentioned that the Hindi language was becoming more popular and expressed commitment to the prosperity of both countries. PM Modis Engagements In Brazil Prime Minister Modi is expected to land at Rio at 5:30 am IST ahead of the 19th G20 Summit as a Troika member and is also expected to hold separate meetings with world leaders. Outgoing US President Joe Biden and Chinas Xi Jinping will be among the participating world leaders in Rio de Janeiro on November 18-19. India is part of the G20 Troika along with Brazil and South Africa. This would be PM Modis third visit to Brazil after the BRICS Summits in 2014 and 2019. In September last year, India hosted the successful G20 Summit in New Delhi, where it scored a major diplomatic victory by convincing world leaders on a common ground to include the Russia-Ukraine war in the New Delhi Declaration. As the chair, India also brought the African Union into the G20 bloc in a major push towards voicing the priorities of the Global South on a global stage. The theme for this years G20 Summit is Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet where Brazil would prioritise the issues of social inclusion, poverty, sustainable development and reform of global governance institutions. This summit is significant as it would carry on from the priorities laid out by India last year . This year, Brazil has built upon Indias legacy. I look forward to meaningful discussions in keeping with our vision of One Earth, One Family, One Future. I will also use the opportunity to exchange views on furthering bilateral cooperation with several other leaders," Modi said before his departure to Nigeria. In last years New Delhi Summit, India had raised the critical issue of hunger and poverty along with reform of global governance institutions, which broadly align with key priorities under the Brazilian presidency. India also envisioned the Empowerment of Women Working Group that was convened for the first time earlier this year to fuel women-led development in the G20. PM Modis Visit To Guyana In his third and final trip, the Prime Minister will visit Guyana from November 19 to 21 at the invitation of President Mohamed Irfaan Ali. He will be the first Indian PM to visit the country in over 50 years. There has been an uptick in high-level engagements between India and Guyana, with President Ali visiting the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in January last year and Prime Minister Mark Philips visiting India in February 2024. PM Modi is expected to hold delegation-level talks with President Ali and will address the National Assembly of Guyana and the Indian community there. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Diplomatic relations between India and Guyana have existed since 1965 and roughly 40% of the population of 800,000 in the South American country is of Indian origin, as many Indians migrated there 185 years ago. India also shares a long-standing development partnership with Guyana in the fields of health, connectivity and renewable power. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister will also co-chair the second India-CARICOM (Caribbean Community) Summit along with the Prime Minister of Grenada who is the current Chair of CARICOM. The Summit will enable us to renew historical ties and expand our cooperation into new domains," he said. Location : Abuja, Nigeria First Published: November 17, 2024, 22:38 IST Bangladesh To Seek Sheikh Hasina's Extradition From India, Says Muhammad Yunus Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 21:24 IST Yunus had long promised to extradite Hasina from India over the deaths of hundreds of protesters during a mass uprising against her. Muhammad Yunus had promised Sheikh Hasina's extradition as she faces several criminal charges in the wake of the anti-government agitation. (Reuters) Bangladeshs interim leader and Nobel Peace laureate Muhammad Yunus said Sunday that his administration will seek the extradition of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from India, where has been in exile since fleeing a mass uprising in August. Hasina faced mass protests over a controversial quota system for government jobs, that soon spiralled into a full-blown agitation against the government, leading to widespread chaos and violence. Hasina was forced to resign and flee the country, with Yunus taking over three days after as the chief advisor of the interim government. related stories In a televised address to the nation on his first 100 days in office, Yunus said that the interim government will try those responsible including the former PM for hundreds of deaths during the student-led uprising that ended her 15-year rule. Over 600 people were killed in the unrest that ensued mid-July till August. We will seek the return of the fallen autocrat Sheikh Hasina from India," he said. Yunus said Hasinas role would be investigated not only in the deaths during the unrest but also in other violations of human rights, including alleged enforced disappearances while she was in power. ALSO READ: Ban ISKCON In Bangladesh, Say Islamist Groups | Exclusive From Local Sources Bangladesh Asks Interpol For Help In Extraditing Hasina Earlier, a special tribunal had asked Interpol to issue a red notice for the arrest of Sheikh Hasina in connection with the deaths of hundreds of protesters during the mass uprising. The Yunus-led government had long promised to seek Hasinas extradition from India, along with her close associates. While Hasina and her close associates are facing numerous criminal charges at home, the Yunus-led government is also pushing for the ICC to take up the case. I have already discussed the issue with chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court Karim Khan," the chief adviser said. Yunus said his governments most important task was to hold a new election to hand over power to an elected government, but he did not spell out any timeframe. He said his administration would first bring about reforms in various sectors including in the electoral system. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He promised that once the once the electoral reforms are completed, a roadmap for the new election would be unveiled. The Nobel laureate also downplayed as exaggerated" reports of attacks on minorities, especially Hindus, many of whom complained that hard-line Islamists are becoming increasingly influential since Hasinas ouster. Hindus make up about 8% of the countrys nearly 170 million people, while Muslims are about 91%. The countrys influential minority group Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council has said there have been more than 2,000 attacks on Hindus since August 4 till early November, as the interim government has struggled to restore order. Location : Dhaka, Bangladesh First Published: November 17, 2024, 21:07 IST Yemen's Houthi group said they launched a bomb-laden drone attack on Israel's southern port city of Eilat on Saturday, hitting a "vital target." #XinhuaNews Biden Becomes First Sitting US President To Visit Amazon Rainforest Ahead Of G20 Rio Summit Last Updated: November 18, 2024, 23:01 IST Biden, whose tenure ends in January, began the historic trip to Manaus amid fears that Donald Trump would undo his green policies. Outgoing US President Joe Biden and his daughter Ashley arrive Manaus, Brazil, ahead of the G20 Summit in Rio. (AFP) US President Joe Biden began an historic trip to the Amazon rainforest on Sunday to promote his record on fighting climate change amid fears that Donald Trump will roll back his green policies. Biden landed in the Brazilian city of Manaus, in the heart of the worlds largest jungle, on the last leg of a valedictory South American before handing the keys of the White House to Trump in January. related stories Joe Biden becomes the first sitting US President to visit the Amazon Rainforest. pic.twitter.com/jdO9O73DoC Pop Base (@PopBase) November 17, 2024 The 81-year-old, the first sitting US president to visit the Amazon, will fly over the rainforest by helicopter, visit a museum and meet Indigenous and local leaders working to protect the Amazon. From Manaus he will continue on to Rio de Janeiro for a G20 summit starting Monday. US Achieves Targets Of Bilateral Climate Financing Ahead of his Amazon visit, the White House announced that the US had hit its target of increasing bilateral climate financing to $11 billion a year. It said that the figure reached this year was six times what the US was providing at the start of Bidens term in 2021 and made the United States the largest bilateral provider of climate finance in the world." The fight against climate change has been a defining cause of President Bidens leadership and presidency," the White House said. Biden arrived in Brazil from Peru, where he attended his last summit with Asia-Pacific leaders. He has cut a diminished figure on his tour. All eyes in Lima were on Chinese President Xi Jinping who was received with greater fanfare. At a meeting with Biden, the Chinese leader said he hoped for a smooth transition" in relations with the future Trump administration. Trump has pledged to reverse Bidens policies and could again pull the United States, the worlds second-biggest polluter, out of the landmark 2015 Paris Agreement on combatting carbon emissions, as he did during his first term. On Saturday, he nominated a fracking magnate and noted climate change skeptic, Chris Wright, as his energy secretary. Fears Over Trumps Impact On Green Energy The Amazon, spanning nine countries, is crucial to the fight against climate change due to its ability to absorb planet-warming carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. But it is also one of the areas most vulnerable to climate change and environmental degradation. This year it experienced the worst wildfires in nearly two decades, fuelled by a severe drought blamed in part by climate experts on global warming. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all A recent study showed that the Amazon rainforest had lost an area about the size of Germany and France combined to deforestation in four decades. Brazils President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has pledged to put a stop to illegal Amazon deforestation by 2030. Experts have warned that a second Trump presidency could undo progress on the transition to green energy made under Biden, giving heavy polluters like China and India an excuse to scale back their own efforts. During his campaign, Trump pledged to drill, baby, drill" and increase fossil fuel extraction. He even brushed off climate change just days before the vote. Location : Brazil First Published: November 17, 2024, 22:55 IST Gold Watch Gifted To Captain Who Saved Titanic Survivors Sells for Record $2 Million Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 21:34 IST Captain Arthur Rostron diverted his passenger ship, the Carpathia, to rescue over 700 people from the sinking Titanic. Three women survivors gifted the gold watch to Captain Arthur Rostron for saving more than 700 people from the Titanic. (AP) A gold pocket watch given to the ship captain who rescued 700 survivors from the Titanic sold at auction for nearly $2 million, setting a record for memorabilia from the shipwreck. The 18-carat Tiffany & Co. watch was given by three women survivors to Capt. Arthur Rostron for diverting his passenger ship, the RMS Carpathia, to save them and others after the Titanic struck an iceberg and sank in the north Atlantic on its maiden voyage in 1912. related stories Auctioneers Henry Aldridge and Son, who sold the watch to a private collector in the United States on Saturday for 1.56 million British pounds, said its the most paid for a piece of Titanic memorabilia. The price includes taxes and fees paid by the buyer. The watch was given to Rostron by the widow of John Jacob Astor, the richest man to die in the disaster, and the widows of two other wealthy businessmen who went down with the ship. Astors pocket watch, which was on his body when it was recovered seven days after the ship sank, had previously set the record for the highest price paid for a Titanic keepsake, fetching nearly $1.5 million (1.17 million pounds) from the same auction house in April. Auctioneer Andrew Aldridge said the fact that Titanic memorabilia has set two records this year demonstrates the enduring fascination with the story and the value of the dwindling supply and high demand for ship artifacts. Every man, woman and child had a story to tell, and those stories are told over a century later through the memorabilia," he said. Rostron was hailed a hero for his actions the night the Titanic sank and his crew was recognized for their bravery. The Carpathia was sailing from New York to the Mediterranean Sea when a radio operator heard a distress call from the Titanic in the early hours of April 15, 1912 and woke Rostron in his cabin. He turned his boat around and headed at full steam toward the doomed vessel, navigating through ice bergs to get there. By the time the Carpathia arrived, the Titanic had sunk and 1,500 people perished. But the crew located 20 lifeboats and rescued more than 700 passengers and took them back to New York. Rostron was awarded the US Congressional Gold Medal by President William Howard Taft and was later knighted by King George V. Madeleine Astor, who had been helped into a lifeboat by her husband, presented the watch to Rostron at a luncheon at her mansion on Fifth Avenue in New York. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The inscription says it was given with the heartfelt gratitude and appreciation of three survivors." It lists Mrs. John B Thayer and George D Widener alongside Astors married name. It was presented principally in gratitude for Rostrons bravery in saving those lives," Aldridge said. Without Mr Rostron, those 700 people wouldnt have made it." Location : London, United Kingdom (UK) First Published: November 17, 2024, 21:33 IST PM Modi In Nigeria: How Nigerian Media Covered The Historic Visit? Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 17:09 IST Prime Minister Modi received a rousing welcome from the Indian diaspora as he arrived in Abuja, Nigeria on Saturday. PM Modi interacting with the Indian community after his arrival in Nigeria. (Narendra Modi/X) Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm welcome from the Indian community in Nigeria on Sunday in the first leg of his three-nation visit, becoming the first Indian PM to visit the West African country in 17 years. Upon his arrival in Abuja, PM Modi was warmly greeted by Minister for Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, who presented him with the Key to the City of Abuja. Several members of the Indian diaspora were ecstatic on meeting the Prime Minister, holding Indian flags and chanting Bharat Mata Ki Jai. related stories During the visit, PM Modi also highlighted that the Marathi community in Nigeria expressed joy at Marathi being conferred the status of a Classical Language, during his interaction with the Indian diaspora. Heartwarming to see the Indian community in Nigeria extending such a warm and vibrant welcome! pic.twitter.com/QYfAUOpqRO Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 16, 2024 At the invitation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this will be my first visit to Nigeria, which is our close partner in the West African region. My visit will be an opportunity to build upon our Strategic Partnership that is based on shared belief in democracy and pluralism. I am also eagerly looking forward to meeting the Indian community and friends from Nigeria who have sent me warm welcome messages in Hindi," he said in a statement prior to his departure. ALSO READ: Opinion | India And Africa In Modi Years: What The Nigeria Visit Means How Nigerian Media Covered PM Modis Visit? PM Modi will also be honoured with Nigerias second highest national honour The Grand Commander of The Order of the Niger. This will be the 17th such international award being conferred to PM Modi by a country. Notably, Queen Elizabeth is the only foreign dignitary who has been awarded GCON in 1969. Ahead of PM Modis arrival, most of the Nigerian media was buzzing in anticipation of the Indian leaders visit. Several Nigerian newspapers such as Punch and Vanguard published advertisements welcoming PM Modi to the country. Front Pages of all Newspapers in Nigeria are about PM @narendramodi Historic Visit to the country pic.twitter.com/xCTAoB2ucF Siddhant Mishra (@siddhantvm) November 17, 2024 The advertisements also included warm welcomes by the Indian Professionals Forum in Nigeria and the Skipper Nigeria Limited, a subsidiary of the Indian energy firm Skipper. PM Modis visit marks the first by an Indian prime minister since former PM Manmohan Singhs state visit in 2007, during which the two nations established a strategic partnership. According to the Nigerian Presidency, PM Modi and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will aim to strengthen bilateral relations during this period. PM Modi Meets Nigerian President In Abuja According to the Nigeria-based Punch newspaper, Tinubu received PM Modi at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja at 10:20 am (local time) today. The Indian leader was greeted with the Indian national anthem, followed by a Guard of Honour mounted by a Brigade of Guards, which performed the Nigerian national anthem and led the visiting Prime Minister in inspecting the mounted parade. This was followed by a 21-gun salute, after which PM Modi completed his inspection of the Guard of Honour. Tinubu then escorted him into his office for a closed-door meeting. The two leaders are expected to discuss and sign several bilateral agreements during their interaction, which will also include delegation-level discussions and several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). Nigerian President Tinubu earlier said he looked forward to welcome PM Modi on his first visit to Nigeria. Our bilateral discussions will seek to expand the strategic partnership between both countries and enhance cooperation in critical sectors," he said in a post on X. I look forward to welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his first visit to Nigeria, which is also the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to our dear country since 2007.Our bilateral discussions will seek to expand the strategic partnership between both countries and Bola Ahmed Tinubu (@officialABAT) November 16, 2024 Responding to the post, PM Modi thanked the Nigerian President for the warm welcome. Thank you, President Tinubu. Landed a short while ago in Nigeria. Grateful for the warm welcome. May this visit deepen the bilateral friendship between our nations," he said in the post. Thank you, President Tinubu.Landed a short while ago in Nigeria. Grateful for the warm welcome. May this visit deepen the bilateral friendship between our nations. @officialABAT https://t.co/hlRiwj1XnV pic.twitter.com/iVW1Pr60Zi Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 16, 2024 PM Modi will take part in the G20 Summit as a Troika member in Brazil. Outgoing US President Joe Biden, Chinas Xi Jinping will be among the participating world leaders in Rio de Janeiro on November 18-19. In his third and final trip, the Prime Minister will visit Guyana from November 19 to 21 at the invitation of President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, becoming the first Indian leader to visit the country in over 50 years. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Location : Abuja, Nigeria First Published: November 17, 2024, 16:16 IST India Stepped Out Of Comfort Zone, Embraced Innovation: PM Modi Published By : PTI Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 23:34 IST PM Modi while addressing the Indian diaspora in Nigeria said India is creating new pathways for progress. PM Modi said India and Nigeria are moving forward like partners. (IMAGE: PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that India has stepped out of its comfort zone, embracing innovation and creating new pathways for progress, which have become hallmarks of its identity. Addressing the Indian diaspora in the Nigerian capital, Modi also said that India has embarked on a new journey, and the goal is to build a Viksit Bharat as he outlined his governments achievements during the last ten years. related stories Modi, who began his speech with Sannu, Nigeria", which translates to Hello", said this was his first visit to Nigeria as Prime Minister, but he did not come alone. I have brought with me the fragrance of Indian soil and many good wishes for all of you on behalf of crores of Indians," Modi said. Highlighting the achievements of his government, Modi said India has stepped out of its comfort zone, embracing innovation and creating new pathways for progress, which have become the essence of todays India. A confident India has embarked on a new journey today. The goal is clear to build a Viksit Bharat," he said, amid chants of Modi-Modi from the crowd. Modi said that India has more than 1.5 lakh registered Startups. In the last decade, more than 100 Unicorns have been built. One Unicorn means an Rs 8,000-10,000 crore company. More than 100 companies are proof of the success of Indias startup culture," he said, adding that India was able to achieve this because it came out of its comfort zone. He said that India added USD 2 trillion to its GDP in the last decade. In 10 years, the size of the Indian economy doubled. Today, India is the fifth largest economy in the world. The day is not far when India will become a USD 5 trillion economy and the third largest economy," he said. He said the world is praising India for its progress in the Space industry. India has decided that soon Indians will be sent to space through our own Gaganyaan, he added. India is also going to build its space station in the space, he added. He said that Indias defence exports have increased almost 30 times. Modi praised the Indian community in Nigeria and said that many Indian companies are strengthening the African countrys economy. The Indian community is working shoulder to shoulder with Nigeria for its development and this is the great strength of the people of India. We may come to another country, but we do not forget our values of the welfare of all. For us, the whole world is one family," he said. He also cited Tolarams Noodles and the Tulsi Chanrai Foundation as examples of how Indians have positively contributed to Nigeria. Modi also said that the Hindi language is rapidly gaining popularity in Nigeria. A friendship with Indian films is obvious People remember the names of all Indian movies and actors," he said. Modi said that during the time of slavery, both the people of India and Nigeria tirelessly pursued their quest for freedom. When India gained independence, it also inspired the freedom movement in Nigeria," he said. Today, India and Nigeria continue to move forward together as partners, reflecting the bond forged during their struggles," he said. While India is the mother of democracy, Nigeria is the biggest democracy in Africa. We both have the commonality of democracy, diversity and the energy of demography," he added. The Prime Minister said that India has emerged as a new hope for the world, embodying growth, peace, prosperity, and democracy. He said that whenever a challenge arises anywhere in the world, India rises as the first responder to extend its support, acting as a Vishwa Bandhu, or a global friend. During the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic, when countries around the world were in desperate need of vaccines, India took the initiative to provide vaccines to as many nations as possible," he said. In the past years, India has made every possible effort to raise the voice of Africa on global platforms, Modi said. When India got the Presidency of G20 for the first time, we made every effort to make the African Union a permanent member and India was also successful in this," he said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Modi also thanked Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for conferring him the National Award, saying he accepted the honour with great humility. He added that this is an honour which is not only for him but also for all Indians. Modi was in Nigeria on the first leg of his three-nation visit. This visit is the first by an Indian prime minister to Nigeria in 17 years. Location : Abuja, Nigeria First Published: November 17, 2024, 23:34 IST Khamenei Secretly Elected His Son As Iran's Next Leader, May Abdicate Before Death: Reports Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 08:31 IST Reports indicated that Ali Khamenei may abdicate before his death and let his son succeed him on the post. Iran's Supreme leader Ali Khamenei (Reuters Image) Maintaining high confidentiality, Tehran has secretly picked Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of Irans Supreme leader Ali Khamenei, as his successor, according to media reports. 85-year-old Ali Khamenei, who is reportedly suffering from severe illness, may abdicate before his death and his son Mojtaba may assume the role while his father is alive, according to Israeli news outlet ynetnews which cited Iran International, a Persian-language international media outlet having ties to Iranian regime opponents. related stories According to the reports, 60 members of Irans Assembly of Experts assembled on September 26 on Khameneis demand and were ordered to take a decision on the succession immediately with utmost confidentiality. Assembly Members Threatened To Maintain Secrecy: Reports The Assembly finally reached a unanimous agreement to pick Mojtaba as Khameneis successor despite their opposition to both the decision and the process of the move. However, they were insisted on by the leader and his representatives, which also allegedly included direct threats. The decision to maintain maximum secrecy was taken out of fears of widespread public protests. The assembly members were issued warnings to keep the meeting and its details confidential. They were threatened with repercussions for any leaks, the reports said. The details of the meeting were kept under wraps for five weeks. Why The Secrecy? Fears surrounding the protests stem from the undemocratic nature of the succession process, further amplified by Khameneis earlier selection of his second son for the role. Over the last two years, Mojtaba has been strategically prepared for leadership, increasingly taking on a pivotal role in the Iranian regimes decision-making. His appointment has therefore become a foregone conclusion despite his dearth of any experience and his non-participation in any formal positions in the government. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Ali Khamenei might abdicate and hand over the reins to his second son during his lifetime and ensure a smooth transition, sources familiar with the meeting said, according to the reports. Khamenei hopes to establish his son as a leader, preempting the anticipated opposition and protests that might occur after his death, they said. Location : Tehran, Iran First Published: November 17, 2024, 07:33 IST Israeli Strike Kills Hezbollah's Main Spokesperson As Lebanon Considers Ceasefire Proposal Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 20:22 IST Israeli warplanes pounded central Beirut as Lebanese officials are considering their response to a US-brokered ceasefire proposal. More than 3,000 people have been killed in Lebanon since cross-border strikes between Israel and Hezbollah began on October last year. (Reuters) The main spokesman for Lebanons Hezbollah militant group was killed in the first Israeli airstrike on central Beirut in more than a month on Sunday, an official with the militant group told The Associated Press. Israeli strikes in the Gaza Strip had earlier killed 12 people, Palestinian medical officials said. related stories The Hezbollah official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief the media, said Mohammed Afif was killed in the strike in central Beirut. Afif had been especially visible after Israels military escalation in September and following the assassination of longtime Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, who was also killed in an Israeli airstrike. Israeli warplanes had earlier pounded the southern suburbs of Beirut after the military warned people to evacuate from several buildings. The Hezbollah militant group has a strong presence in the area, known as the Dahiyeh, and the strikes came as Lebanese officials are considering a US-brokered cease-fire proposal. Also on Sunday, Israeli police said they arrested three suspects after flares were fired at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus private residence in the coastal city of Caesarea. Netanyahu and his family were not at the residence when two flares were fired at it overnight, and there were no injuries, authorities said. A drone launched by Hezbollah struck the residence last month, also when Netanyahu and his family were away. The police did not provide details about the suspects behind the flares, but officials pointed to domestic political critics of Netanyahu. Israels largely ceremonial president, Isaac Herzog, condemned the incident and warned against an escalation of the violence in the public sphere". top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Netanyahu has faced months of mass protests over his handling of the hostage crisis unleashed by Hamas October 7, 2023 attack into Israel, which ignited the ongoing war in Gaza. Critics blame Netanyahu for the security and intelligence failures that allowed the attack to happen and for not reaching a deal with Hamas to release scores of hostages still held inside Gaza. Israelis rallied again in the city of Tel Aviv on Saturday night to demand a cease-fire deal to return them. Location : Beirut, Lebanon First Published: November 17, 2024, 20:22 IST On 1,000th Day Of War, Russia Targets Ukraine With Fierce Missile, Drone Attacks Published By : Associated Press Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 22:32 IST Zelenskyy said Russia launched 120 missiles and 90 drones in a large-scale attack across Ukraine. In this photo provided by the Ukrainian Emergency Service, emergency services personnel work to extinguish a fire following a Russian rocket attack in Poltava region Ukraine. (IMAGE: AP PHOTO) Russia on Sunday launched a massive drone and missile attack on Ukraine, described by officials as the largest over the past months, targeting energy infrastructure and killing civilians. The attack came as fears are mounting about Moscows intentions to devastate Ukraines power generation capacity ahead of the cold winter. related stories President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Russia had launched a total of 120 missiles and 90 drones in a large-scale attack across Ukraine. Various types of drones were deployed, he said, including Iranian-made Shaheds as well as cruise, ballistic and aircraft-launched ballistic missiles. Ukrainian defences shot down 140 air targets, Zelenskyy said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app. The enemys target was our energy infrastructure throughout Ukraine. Unfortunately, there is damage to objects from hits and falling debris. In Mykolaiv, as a result of a drone attack, two people were killed and six others were injured, including two children," Zelenskyy said. Two others were killed in the Odesa region, where the attack damaged energy infrastructure and disrupted power and water supplies, said local Gov. Oleh Kiper. The combined drone and missile attack was the most powerful in three months, according to the head of Kyivs City Military Administration Serhii Popko. Russian strikes have hammered Ukraines power infrastructure since Moscows all-out invasion of its neighbor in February 2022, prompting repeated emergency power shutdowns and nationwide rolling blackouts. Ukrainian officials have routinely urged Western allies to bolster the countrys air defenses to counter assaults and allow for repairs. Explosions were heard across Ukraine on Sunday, including in capital Kyiv, the key southern port of Odesa, as well as the countrys west and central regions, according to local reports. The operational command of Polands armed forces wrote on X that Polish and allied aircraft, including fighter jets, have been mobilized in Polish airspace because of the massive" Russian attack on neighboring Ukraine. The steps were aimed to provide safety in Polands border areas, it said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all One person was injured after the roof of a five-story residential building caught fire in Kyivs historic center, according to Popko. A thermal power plant operated by private energy company DTEK was seriously damaged," the company said. Location : Kyiv, Ukraine First Published: November 17, 2024, 22:32 IST PM Modi, Tinubu Discuss India-Nigeria Strategic Ties, Threats Posed By Terrorism Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 18:57 IST Modis visit to Nigeria is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in 17 years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu hold a meeting in Abuja, Nigeria. (IMAGE: NARENDRA MODI/X) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday held extensive talks with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu focusing on boosting the India-Nigeria partnership in a range of areas, including trade, investment and digital public infrastructure. Sharing my remarks during meeting with President Tinubu. @officialABAThttps://t.co/ZORuc4Zfps Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2024 related stories In his opening remarks, he addressed the host with the Yoruba phrase Ore mi which translates to My friend and extended condolences to those affected by the recent floods in the country and said India is sending 20 tonne relief material for those impacted. Modi arrived in the Nigerian capital early Sunday on the first trip to the West African country by an Indian prime minister after a gap of 17 years. The prime minister was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the presidential villa following which he held one-on-one meeting with Tinubu. I am happy that I have visited Nigeria at the beginning of my third term. I am happy that under Indias G20 chairmanship, Nigeria got the status of a guest country and the African Union became a permanent member of the grouping," PM Modi said. We prioritise our strategic partnership with Nigeria. Defence, energy, finance, health, education and culture are some of the many sectors where India and Nigeria are cooperating, with new avenues opening as our relationship deepens," he further added. He also said that both nations India and Nigeria are together meeting challenges posed by terrorism, separatism, piracy and drug trafficking. He also thanked the Nigerian government for acting as a guardian of the 60,000-strong Indian community living in the nation. President Tinubu acknowledged Indias efforts to amplify the concerns of developing countries through the Voice of the Global South Summits. The two leaders agreed to work together to meet the development aspirations of the Global South," the external affairs ministry said in a press release. (The Nigerian government) made a special gesture by giving the key of Abuja City PM Modi at the airport," Dammu Ravi, external ministrys top official, said. He further added that PM Modi expressed sympathy for the recent floods in Nigeria and dedicated the honour conferred upon him by President Tinubu to the India-Nigeria friendship and the people of India. He also discussed regional and global issues during his interactions with Nigerian leadership. Modi is in Nigeria as part of a three-nation tour. From Abuja, he will travel to Brazil to attend the G20 summit. His last destination will be Guyana. The India-Nigeria ties were elevated to the status of a strategic partnership during the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singhs visit to the African nation in October 2007. Nigeria has been a close partner of India for over six decades. New Delhi established its diplomatic House in Lagos in November 1958, two years before Nigeria became independent in 1960. The presence of a large Indian expatriate community of about 60,000, the largest in West Africa, adds value to the importance of the long-standing relationship between the two countries. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all There are more than 200 Indian companies who have invested about USD 27 billion in all important manufacturing sectors and these companies are the second largest employers after the federal government, according to Indian officials. India has emerged as a development partner of Nigeria on two fronts by offering developmental assistance through concessional loans (USD 100 million) and by offering capacity-building training programmes. Location : Abuja, Nigeria First Published: November 17, 2024, 17:06 IST 'Hindi Becoming Popular In Nigeria': PM Modi Addresses Indian Community In Abuja | Watch Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 20:13 IST PM Modi also thanked the people of Nigeria for a rousing welcome and bestowing him with the country's second-highest civilian honour. PM Modi addressing the Indian diaspora in Nigeria during the first part of his three-nation visit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed the Indian community in Nigeria during the first leg of his three-nation visit, beginning his speech with Sannu, Nigeria, which translates to the traditional Nigerian greeting of Hello". Your affection is a big source of capital for me. To visit you, to spend time with you I will cherish these moments for all my life. This is my first visit to Nigeria as a Prime Minister, but I havent come alone, I have brought the fragrance of the Indian soil and lots of blessings from Indians," the Prime Minister said at the event. related stories Delighted to connect with the Indian diaspora in Nigeria. Grateful for the affection. https://t.co/lUnmi8vhxq Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2024 Every Indian citizen is proud of your accomplishments. Mera to 56 hojata hai. (My chest swells by 56 inches in pride). I thank the president and the people of Nigeria the kind of welcome that I have received is incredible. President Tinubu honoured me with Nigerias National award today. It is not an honour for Modi but crores of Indians," the PM added amid chants of Modi-Modi" and Bharat Mata ki Jai". PM Modi Highlights Role Of Indians In Nigeria PM Modi shone the spotlight on the role of the Indian diaspora in the development of Nigeria. You have not only given your hard work and determination, but also your hearts. Nigerias Indian community has been a companion in all highs and lows of Nigeria," he said. Those who are in their 40s or 60s in Nigeria you will find many of them have been taught by an Indian teacher. There are several Indian doctors who serve the Nigerian people. Many Indians in Nigeria have established their businesses and have contributed to the development of Nigeria," Modi further said. He also cited Tolarams Noodles and the Tulsi Chanrai Foundation as examples of how Indians have positively contributed to Nigeria. This is the power and values of India. We may go to different country, but we never forget our traditions. For us, the world is like our family," he added. Hindi Gaining Popularity In Nigeria: PM Modi While making a light-hearted remark on the community watching Indian news, Prime Minister Modi said the Hindi language is rapidly gaining popularity in Nigeria. The youth of Nigeria, especially in Kano (state) are learning Hindi A friendship with Indian films is obvious People remember the names of all Indian movies and actors," he mentioned. He also remarked that India and Nigeria are progressing together like companions from their period of struggle against colonial rule. India is the mother of democracy, and Nigeria is the biggest democracy in Africa. We both have similarities in democracy, diversity and the energy of demography." When India became independent, there were several challenges. Our ancestors worked hard to deal with those challenges. Today, the world is talking about Indias progress We are all proud of Indias accomplishments," he added. He also listed Indias contribution in the development of Africa, including the inclusion of the African Union in the G20 last year. PM Modis Visit To Nigeria Modi arrived in the Nigerian capital early Sunday on the first trip to the West African country by an Indian prime minister after a gap of 17 years, and received a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora. He will further travel to Brazil to attend the G20 Summit and Guyana in the next leg of his five-day tour. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He also met Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and held detailed discussions in the fields of economy, energy, agriculture, security, fintech, small and medium state enterprises and cultural areas. During the meeting, Modi highlighted similar challenges faced by India and Nigeria and committed to the benefit of both nations. He was also conferred with Nigerias second highest national honour The Grand Commander of The Order of the Niger by President Tinubu. Before him, the UKs Queen Elizabeth was the only foreign dignitary who was awarded GCON in 1969. Location : Abuja, Nigeria First Published: November 17, 2024, 19:32 IST Trump's Defence Secretary Pick Paid Woman To Head Off Sexual Assault Lawsuit: Report Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 23:10 IST Pete Hegseth, Trump's nominee for Defence Secretary, was accused of sexual assault in 2017, and he denied any wrongdoing. Pete Hegseth's lawyer said the encounter was consensual and he was the victim of a 'successful extortion' (Image: Facebook) Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trumps pick for defense secretary, paid a woman who accused him of sexual assault to head off the threat of a baseless lawsuit, according to Hegseths lawyer. Hegseth was accused of sexual assault in 2017 after a speaking appearance at a Republican womens event in Monterey, California, according to a statement released by the city. No charges were filed. related stories His lawyer, Tim Parlatore, told the Associated Press on Sunday that the sexual encounter was consensual and that the woman who made the accusation days later was the aggressor." That assertion has not been confirmed in the statement released by the city. Parlatore said a payment was made to the woman as part of a confidential settlement a few years after the police investigation because Hegseth believed the filing of a threatened lawsuit could have gotten him fired from Fox News, where he was then a popular host. Parlatore would not reveal the amount of the payment. He was falsely accused and my position is that he was the victim of blackmail," Parlatore said, calling it a case of successful extortion." The Washington Post earlier reported details of the payment. The newspaper also reported it obtained a copy of a memo sent to Trumps transition team this past week by a woman who said she is a friend of the accuser that details the sexual assault allegations. Trumps transition team had no immediate comment Sunday on the memo. The person who reported the assault whose name, age and sex were not released had bruises on the right thigh, according to the citys statement. No weapons were involved in the encounter, the person told police. The incident occurred sometime between 11:59 pm on Oct 7 and 7 am the following morning, according to the citys statement. Hegseth was in Monterey at the time to address the California Federation of Republican Women during a banquet dinner held at the groups biennial convention, according to social media posts and promotional materials from the time. Monterey officials said they were withholding further details included in the police report because it included analysis and conclusions by law enforcement officials that are exempt from release under state public records law. At the time of the 2017 accusations, Hegseth, now 44, was going through a divorce with his second wife, with whom he has three children. She filed for divorce after he had a child with a Fox News producer who is now his wife, according to court records and social media posts by Hegseth. His first marriage ended in 2009, also after infidelity by Hegseth, according to court records. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all After the accusations first surfaced last week, Steven Cheung, a spokesman for the Trump transition, issued a statement saying the president-elect is nominating high-caliber and extremely qualified candidates to serve in his Administration." Mr Hegseth has vigorously denied any and all accusations, and no charges were filed. We look forward to his confirmation as United States Secretary of Defense so he can get started on Day One to Make America Safe and Great Again," Cheung said. Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: November 17, 2024, 23:10 IST This photo shows the damage caused by Israeli airstrikes in the southern suburb of Beirut, Lebanon, on Nov. 17, 2024. Israeli warplanes launched five fresh raids on Beirut's southern suburbs Sunday morning shortly after the Israeli army issued an evacuation warning, Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA) reported. (Str/Xinhua) BEIRUT, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- Israeli warplanes launched five fresh raids on Beirut's southern suburbs Sunday morning shortly after the Israeli army issued an evacuation warning, Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA) reported. Among the raids, two targeted the vicinity of a church opposite Saint George Hospital in the Hadath area, two more targeted and destroyed a 12-story residential building near a church in the Chiyah area, and the fifth destroyed a building in the Burj al-Barajneh area, the NNA reported. The report did not specify the casualties involved in the raids. Shortly before the raids, Israeli army spokesman Avichay Adraee issued a warning on social media platform X, asking residents in mapped buildings in the above-mentioned areas to evacuate. The Israeli army has intensified its raids in the past few days on various areas in Beirut's southern suburbs that allegedly belong to Hezbollah, causing great destruction and heavy material losses. Throughout Saturday, Israeli warplanes launched four waves of raids, totaling 18, on areas of Haret Hreik, Ghobeiry, Burj Al-Barajneh, Chiyah, Bir Al-Abd, Al-Jamous, and Al-Kafaat, the NNA reported. Meanwhile, Lebanese military sources, who spoke anonymously, told Xinhua that Israeli infantry forces advanced about 3-5 km into southern Lebanon on Sunday at dawn, managing to take control again of part of Lebanon's southern town of Khiam. Israeli forces, including dozens of soldiers, tanks, and a bulldozer, crossed the Blue Line at around 2 a.m. local time (0000 GMT), reaching the southeastern edge of Khiam, a key Hezbollah stronghold on the eastern side of the border area in southern Lebanon, they said. Hezbollah said Sunday in separate statements that it targeted with rocket barrages a gathering of Israeli vehicles and forces in the area of al-Umrah, the town of Sarda, the village of Kafr Kila, and the Israeli town of Metula, all surrounding Khiam. It added that it also ambushed and was clashing with an Israeli force advancing on the eastern outskirts of southwestern Lebanon's village of Chamaa, causing injuries among the Israeli force. The Israeli army reached the eastern edge of Khiam on Oct. 29, stayed there for three days, and was then forced to retreat behind the borderline, according to media reports. Since Sept. 23, the Israeli army has leveled up its air attack on Lebanon in an escalation of conflict with Hezbollah. In early October, Israel initiated a ground operation across its northern border into Lebanon. According to the Lebanese health ministry, the death toll from Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon since the beginning of the war on Oct. 8, 2023, has reached 3,452, with injuries up to 14,664. This photo shows the damage caused by Israeli airstrikes in the southern suburb of Beirut, Lebanon, on Nov. 17, 2024. Israeli warplanes launched five fresh raids on Beirut's southern suburbs Sunday morning shortly after the Israeli army issued an evacuation warning, Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA) reported. (Str/Xinhua) This photo shows the damage caused by Israeli airstrikes in the southern suburb of Beirut, Lebanon, on Nov. 17, 2024. Israeli warplanes launched five fresh raids on Beirut's southern suburbs Sunday morning shortly after the Israeli army issued an evacuation warning, Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA) reported. (Str/Xinhua) This photo shows the damage caused by Israeli airstrikes in the southern suburb of Beirut, Lebanon, on Nov. 17, 2024. Israeli warplanes launched five fresh raids on Beirut's southern suburbs Sunday morning shortly after the Israeli army issued an evacuation warning, Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA) reported. (Str/Xinhua) This photo shows the smoke caused by Israeli airstrikes in the southern suburb of Beirut, Lebanon, on Nov. 17, 2024. Israeli warplanes launched five fresh raids on Beirut's southern suburbs Sunday morning shortly after the Israeli army issued an evacuation warning, Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA) reported. (Str/Xinhua) This photo shows the damage caused by Israeli airstrikes in the southern suburb of Beirut, Lebanon, on Nov. 17, 2024. Israeli warplanes launched five fresh raids on Beirut's southern suburbs Sunday morning shortly after the Israeli army issued an evacuation warning, Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA) reported. (Str/Xinhua) This photo shows the smoke caused by Israeli airstrikes in the southern suburb of Beirut, Lebanon, on Nov. 17, 2024. Israeli warplanes launched five fresh raids on Beirut's southern suburbs Sunday morning shortly after the Israeli army issued an evacuation warning, Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA) reported. (Str/Xinhua) Xi Warns Biden Not To Cross 'Red Line' By Supporting Taiwan As China Prepares For Trump Last Updated: November 17, 2024, 18:43 IST Xi Jinping listed Taiwan, human rights and China's development interests as key red lines in his conversation with Biden. US President Joe Biden met with China's President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in Peru. (Reuters) Chinese President Xi Jinping warned the United States on Saturday not to cross a red line" in support for Taiwan, but told his counterpart Joe Biden that Beijing was willing to work with the incoming administration of Donald Trump. Biden and Xi met on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Peru, two months before Trump takes office and amid concerns of new trade wars and diplomatic upheaval. related stories China claims Taiwan as its own territory and has refused to rule out using force to seize it, while the United States is the self-ruled islands main security backer even though it does not recognise Taipei diplomatically. Xi told Biden that the Taiwan issue, democracy and human rights, pathways and systems, and development interests are Chinas four red lines that must not be challenged", according to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV. These are the most important guardrails and safety net for China-US relations," CCTV reported Xi as saying. The separatist actions of Taiwan independence are incompatible with peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait," he added. Taiwans foreign ministry said Sunday that Chinas ongoing military provocations near Taiwan are the root cause of destroying regional peace and stability and the major threat to global economic prosperity". ALSO READ: Need To Maintain Human Control Over Nuclear Weapons: Biden-Xi Discuss AI Risks Xi Says US Should Not Intervene In Bilateral Disputes Xi also told Biden that Washington should not intervene in bilateral disputes and not condone or support provocative impulses" in the South China Sea, according to CCTV. Beijing has this year pressed its sweeping claims in the contested waterway with greater assertiveness, despite increased frictions with regional neighbours and a longstanding international ruling that its claims have no legal basis. Xi also said Chinas position on the war in Ukraine was open and aboveboard", and that Beijing would not allow tensions on the Korean peninsula to descend into conflict or chaos", CCTV reported. He announced during a separate meeting that China would host the next APEC summit in 2026. State news agency Xinhua said those talks would aim to unite Asia-Pacific countries to champion open economic and trade cooperation while rejecting protectionist and confrontational trade tactics". China Ready To Work With Trump Administration: Xi But Xi said China would strive for a smooth transition" in relations with the United States and is ready to work with the incoming Trump government. China is ready to work with the new US administration to maintain communication, expand cooperation and manage differences, so as to strive for a smooth transition of the China-US relationship," Xi told Biden through a translator. In his first White House term, Trump engaged in a bruising trade war with China, imposing tariffs on billions of dollars in Chinese products and drawing retaliation from Beijing. He embraced a similar stance on the campaign trail this year. Both sides should keep exploring the right way for the two major countries to get along well with each other," Xi said. Xi warned Saturday that bilateral ties could encounter twists and turns or even regress" if one side regarded the other as an opponent or enemy, according to the official Xinhua news agency. Major country competition should not be the underlying logic of the times," Xi added, urging against a small yard, high fences" approach. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He added that a stable China-US relationship is critical" to both parties and the world, noting that Beijing continues to aim for healthy ties. But he stressed that Beijings position of firmly safeguarding its sovereignty, security and development interests has not changed," according to Xinhua. Location : Lima, Peru First Published: November 17, 2024, 18:42 IST This photo shows the damage caused by Israeli airstrikes in central Beirut, Lebanon, on Nov. 17, 2024. An Israeli airstrike targeting the office of Syria's Ba'ath Party in central Beirut on Sunday noon has killed Hezbollah Media Chief Mohammad Afif and three other people, local TV channel al-Jadeed reported. (Str/Xinhua) BEIRUT, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- An Israeli airstrike targeting the office of Syria's Ba'ath Party in central Beirut on Sunday noon has killed Hezbollah Media Chief Mohammad Afif and three other people, local TV channel al-Jadeed reported. According to al-Jadeed, Israeli warplanes attacked the office located between the area of Ras al-Nabaa and the Sodeco Square commercial center with two air-to-surface missiles after the Ba'ath Party received a call from the Israeli army asking it to evacuate the building hosting the party. Most part of the targeted building was destroyed during the airstrike, and ambulances rushed to the area to remove the rubble and search for victims, al-Jadeed reported. Since Sept. 23, the Israeli army has leveled up its air attack on Lebanon in an escalation of conflict with Hezbollah. In early October, Israel initiated a ground operation across its northern border into Lebanon. According to the Lebanese health ministry, the death toll from Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon since the beginning of the war on Oct. 8, 2023, has reached 3,452, with injuries up to 14,664. This photo shows the damage caused by Israeli airstrikes in central Beirut, Lebanon, on Nov. 17, 2024. An Israeli airstrike targeting the office of Syria's Ba'ath Party in central Beirut on Sunday noon has killed Hezbollah Media Chief Mohammad Afif and three other people, local TV channel al-Jadeed reported. (Str/Xinhua) An endangered sea turtle that was found about a year ago some 5,000 miles from its native waters has been released into the Gulf of Mexico, according to the Houston Zoo. The Kemp's ridley sea turtle, named Boeier after the boat that rescued it, was found off the coast of the Netherlands after becoming entangled in the net of the commercial fishing boat. The zoo said the turtle apparently was carried away by currents, and the US National Fish and Wildlife Service secured the turtle's return. The turtle was taken to the Rotterdam Zoo where it was nursed back to health and eventually was flown to Houston, where it arrived Oct. 29, the zoo said. After medical tests and an acclimation process, a healthy Boeier was released into the Gulf of Mexico from Stewart Beach in Galveston on Nov. 4. The Kemp's ridley sea turtle is native to the coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean and is the smallest sea turtleit grows up to 32 inches long and weighs up to 100 pounds, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. (More sea turtles stories.) President-elect Trump's choice for secretary of defense paid a woman who accused him of sexual assault, his lawyer said, but insists the 2017 encounter was consensual. Timothy Parlatore said that Pete Hegseth was "visibly intoxicated" at the time and that California investigators came to the conclusion the woman had been the aggressor, an assertion that police have not confirmed, the Washington Post reports. Police in Monterey did confirm that they investigated the woman's complaint and that no charges were filed . Hegseth paid an unspecified amount of money to his accuser as part of a nondisclosure agreement because he feared being fired by Fox News, where he works as a host, if the matter became public, Parlatore's statement said. Hegseth and his lawyer said they've given that account to Trump aides, per Axios. Trump's team learned about the accusation last week from a friend of the woman who wrote a memo differing from Hegseth's account. The friend wrote that the nominee raped the woman in his hotel room, which he denies. The Monterey County district attorney at the time, Dean Flippo, told the Post on Saturday that he didn't recall the accusations. Trump transition officials are discussing the situation, but the president-elect hasn't budged from his intention to nominate Hegseth, per the New York Times. A spokesman stood by the nomination after the accusation was made public. (Hegseth's past statements that women should not serve in combat have drawn notice.) President Biden met with Chinese leader Xi Jinping at the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Peru on Saturday, and their public remarks afterward appeared directed toward the man who will be Biden's successor, reports the Washington Post and the New York Times. President-elect Trump spoke of imposing new tariffs on China while pushing his "America First" message on the campaign trail, notes the AP, and both men cautioned about the relationship between the world's two biggest economies and militaries becoming too hostile. Xi: The Chinese leader said he was "ready to work with a new US administration." But, he added, "if we take each other as rivals or adversary, pursue vicious competition, and seek to hurt each other, we would roil the relationship or even set it back." The Chinese leader said he was "ready to work with a new US administration." But, he added, "if we take each other as rivals or adversary, pursue vicious competition, and seek to hurt each other, we would roil the relationship or even set it back." Xi: "As two major countries, China and the United States should bear in mind the interest of the whole world and inject more certainty and positive energy into the turbulent world," he added. "As the world's most important bilateral relationship, a stable China-US relationship is critical not only to the interests of the Chinese and American peoples, but also to the future and destiny of the entire humanity." Pope Francis has called for an investigation to determine whether Israel's attacks in Gaza constitute genocide, according to excerpts released Sunday from an upcoming book ahead of the pontiff's jubilee year. It's the first time that Francis has openly urged for an investigation of genocide allegations over Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip, the AP reports. In September, he said that Israel's attacks in Gaza and Lebanon have been "immoral" and disproportionate, and that its military has gone beyond the rules of war. The book was written by Hernan Reyes Alcaide and is based on interviews with the pope. Hope Never Disappoints: Pilgrims Towards a Better World will be released on Tuesday ahead of the pope's 2025 jubilee. Francis' yearlong jubilee is expected to bring more than 30 million pilgrims to Rome to celebrate the Holy Year. "According to some experts, what is happening in Gaza has the characteristics of a genocide," the pope said in excerpts published Sunday by the Italian daily La Stampa. "We should investigate carefully to determine whether it fits into the technical definition formulated by jurists and international bodies," he added. Last year, Francis met separately with relatives of Israeli hostages in Gaza and Palestinians living through the war and set off a firestorm by using words that Vatican diplomats usually avoid: "terrorism" and, according to the Palestinians, "genocide." Francis spoke about the suffering of both Israelis and Palestinians after his meetings, which were arranged before the Israeli-Hamas hostage deal and a temporary halt in fighting was announced. The pontiff last week met with a delegation of Israeli hostages who were released and their families pressing the campaign to bring the remaining captives home. He had editorial control over the upcoming book, per the AP. (More Pope Francis stories.) After months of lobbying by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, President Biden has authorized the use of long-range missiles provided by the US for strikes deeper into Russia. The decision reverses American policy on the Army Tactical Missile System, NBC News reports. US hesitance was partly driven by concern about a limited stockpile, Russia moving potential targets outside the system's range, and the fact that Ukraine was having success with other weapons, including drones. That was before North Korea sent thousands of troops to Russia who are now positioned in Kursk to help in a battle to retake territory won by Ukraine. Administration officials have been wary of doing anything that could draw NATO and the US into a direct conflict with Russia, per the AP. And Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned against this decision, per the Washington Post. The US probably would contribute targeting assistance for strikes on Russian territory; Putin said in September that such an operation "changes the very essence, the nature of the conflict" and that Russia would retaliate. US officials describe their change as a limited evolution, per the Post, not a new chapter in the war that began with Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The move also could gets ahead of President-elect Trump, who has been critical of the level of US aid and said he'll end the war quickly but not said how. "President Biden has committed to making sure that every dollar we have at our disposal will be pushed out the door between now and January 20th," Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters in Brussels on Wednesday. He was meeting with European allies about how to help Ukraine before Trump takes office. (More Russia-Ukraine war stories.) by Xinhua writer Hu Tao ZHUHAI, Guangdong, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- China's homegrown C919 jetliner and Y-20 transport aircraft are displayed side by side at the ongoing China Airshow in Zhuhai, south China's Guangdong Province. It is an exhilarating scene to behold. They are the both members of China's large aircraft family, while the key other member -- the AG600 large amphibious aircraft -- is conducting certification flight tests, with the goal of obtaining type certification. I am looking forward to the day when the Chinese large airplanes C919, Y-20 and AG600 will stand side by side at air shows in China and around the world. I am also eagerly anticipating the day they will be able to serve the welfare of Chinese people and people everywhere. This is my dream: to see the progress of my country's aerospace industry and share the fruits of that progress with the world. Stepping through the entrance of the airshow, I saw a slogan in English, which reads "Chasing the dream for a shared future." Yes, it is a shared aerospace dream. The airshow is an excellent stage for displaying progress and sharing the aerospace dream in an open manner, which means both going out and inviting people in. Mankind has always wondered about the skies overhead and the space beyond. This curiosity has driven individuals around the world to persist in aerospace exploration. The high-tech aerospace industry is a highly globalized industry, allowing enterprises around the world to use unique strengths to secure their share of the long industrial chain. Therefore, the importance of the airshow reaches far beyond inspiring acrobatic flights. It is a platform for China to display its unremitting pursuit of an aerospace dream and commitment to wider opening up. At the airshow, I learned about the systematic development of aerospace products and their roles in safeguarding the country, serving people's travel, satisfying people's desire to explore the skies and space, and more. Visitors are able to get a close-up look at China's Chang'e-6 mission lunar samples, collected from the far side of the moon. They also have the chance to enter the cargo cabin of Y-20 transport aircraft, provided they have made an appointment. To me, I am extremely amazed by those innovative new-energy and new-configuration aircraft, which are developed by both leading aircraft makers and rapidly progressing start-ups. Fancy and trending aerial vehicles are here, such as electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, tilt-rotor aircraft, hydrogen aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles for passenger or cargo transportation, flying cars, and those innovative vehicles with integrated future-oriented technologies. "We should cherish this era of innovative low-altitude aircraft blooming freely," said Guo Liang, CEO and chief scientist of Aerofugia, an eVTOL start-up under China's EV giant Geely Auto. Guo received the award of "Person of the Year" at the 16th China Aerospace Laureate Awards at the airshow. "Gratitude to our aviation predecessors, as it is your efforts that enable us to stand on the shoulders of giants and look at the world from a position of equality, while making breakthroughs in the fierce competition of aeronautical technologies," said Guo while receiving the award. "Space is vast enough to accommodate diversified technical routes from all countries around the world to explore and expand," said Wu Jiwei, the spokesman of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), while mentioning the company's independently-developed Haoloong space cargo shuttle. Words of both men explained why the Chinese people are able to continually advance their aerospace dreams: the persistent pursuit of exploration that is firm, resilient and open. I eagerly look forward to the next Airshow China. The Public Safety Report is compiled from criminal complaints filed in state and federal courts, as well as some police blotter information, trooper dispatches, fire department reports and interviews with public safety officials. Individuals named as arrested and/or charged with crimes in this report are presumed innocent until proved guilty in a court of law. State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Postal Code ZAGREB, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- Dina Grozdanovic Postolka, the project manager for Interliber, has emphasized that the 46th Interliber international book fair of Croatia that concludes Sunday is committed to fostering international partnerships. In an interview with Xinhua on Saturday, Postolka said the book fair this year hosted a group of Chinese publishers who came to exchange books and contacts with their Croatian counterparts while exploring opportunities for future cooperation. Postolka recalled that Chinese publishers first participated in the fair nearly a decade ago and expressed her intention to invite more in the coming years. The China International Book Trading Group Co., Ltd. and 14 publishing houses participated in the Interliber, Croatia's largest and most prominent book fair that runs from Nov. 12 through Nov. 17. At the opening ceremony on Tuesday, Chinese Ambassador Qi Qianjin encouraged the Chinese companies to deepen their promotional efforts and collaboration in Croatia to bolster bilateral friendship and cooperation. According to Postolka, this year's Interliber is the largest and longest-running international book fair in Croatia and is "getting bigger every year." With over 13,000 square meters of exhibition space, the fair has drawn more than 300 exhibitors and thousands of visitors from Croatia and abroad. The fair also offered a wide range of activities, including professional conferences, panel discussions, award ceremonies, lectures, children's performances, musical acts, and book promotions. Held under the patronage of the City of Zagreb and the Croatian Ministry of Culture, the fair "is more than just a book fair; It is about promoting culture," Postolka said. TAMPA, Fla. The puck slid toward Lightning defenseman Darren Raddysh out of the face-off circle and without hesitation he fired it straight toward the net from 40 feet out. Devils goalie Jacob Markstrom wasnt screened, nor did Raddysh shoot from close range. Markstrom simply didnt save it. This concerns the renewed attempt by New York City to impose a peak-hour congestion fee for driving into midtown Manhattan, but at a lower price than before. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul apparently decided that instead of arresting mass-transit fare beaters who cost the subways and buses almost $800 million a year shell penalize law-abiding drivers. Good news, Hochul, a Democrat, said. Congestion pricing wont be $15 to drive into Midtown. Now itll be only $9. I imagine that price is just for now. She had put off switching on the fee last June, probably because elections were coming up. I live in New Jersey near Staten Island. This midtown fee will hurt restaurants, theaters and tourism. Deliveries will cost more. Small businesses will have another reason to go elsewhere. I give tours in New York City, and I already lose income because of its unique sky-high costs. One client from South Carolina said he didnt expect to pay $70 to park overnight. He loved my tour, but I got no tip. Sorry. Your city took it all, he said. A woman from Tennessee canceled on me when I said that picking her up at her Kennedy International Airport hotel, then driving around Harlem, which she and her sister always wanted to visit, would cost me $50 in gas and tolls. In addition to crossing the Verrazano and Goethals bridges, I would have had to drive round-trip on the Triboro, now the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge. I tried explaining this. She still thought I was ripping her off. I myself have more incentive to ditch the dysfunctional City of New York. My wife was thinking of Georgia. I did Army duty at Fort Gordon near Augusta 10 years ago. Oops, because the site was named for a Confederate lieutenant, its called Fort Eisenhower now. Adam Sternglass, Elizabeth Not buying Hochuls discount story New Jersey commuters, motorists and taxpayers beware. Since 2019, the party line in New York has been that it would require a $15 congestion fee for driving into midtown Manhattan. This idea is that this would raise $15 billion to help fund the Metropolitan Transportation Authoritys (MTA) $51 billion, five-year capital plan. Now, five years later, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul claims that the same $15 billion could be raised with a $9 toll. She proudly boasts that this 40% reduction in price will save commuters and taxpayers a significant amount of money. How does she justify the change in math over five years? No details were provided to explain this at Hochuls press conference on the topic. The MTA Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority, and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, periodically raise bridge and tunnel tolls. It will be the same with congestion pricing, until it reaches the originally proposed $15 fee. So much for truth in advertising. Larry Penner, Great Neck, N.Y. The writer is a transportation advocate, historian and writer who previously served as director of the Federal Transit Administrations regional Office of Operations and Program Management. With such big savings, well go bankrupt After a convenient delay until after the elections, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul had the audacity to suggest that she would save money for automobile commuters by imposing a new congestion pricing fee ($9) that adds up to $2,250 a year, instead of the previously proposed $15, or $3,750 for 250 trips annually. The fee will support transit services that most of these commuters will never use. Using Hochuls approach to budgetary savings would bankrupt most households. William T. Fidurski, Clark Why cant Trump be president from jail? You cant miss the signal coming from Judge Juan Merchans decision to postpone sentencing and, possibly undo Donald Trumps conviction by a jury which found him guilty of 34 felonies in the New York hush money trial. In an earlier sentencing delay, the judge wanted to avoid impacting the election. Now that Trump has won a return to the presidency, the judge seems to be asking prosecutors to give Trump a get-out-of-jail free card as an inauguration present. Never mind that this is a state case and, therefore, is not bound by federal policy that prevents a sitting president from being charged with a crime. So much work by so many may be thrown into a dumpster by Merchan, who agreed to make no decisions until Nov. 19. Imagine the anger that would be felt by all the brave jurors who performed their duty at great risk to their personal safety, if the case were thrown out. I believe this country could survive a president who was jailed during his tenure. Israel is moving to resume Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus corruption trial while he is in office, which possibly could send him to jail. In America, apparently, only presidential losers are sentenced for their crimes. Thomas Bonito, Essex Fells All post-election eyes on the climate Like many others, I voted in the recent election. When I did, climate change was at the forefront of my mind. Im sure everyone has noticed the unseasonable warmth this fall, as well as the current drought. Im writing to urge that all people, especially those currently in office and those soon to be ushered in, focus on combating the climate crisis. This will preserve our weather, our homes, and our economy from the ravages like the recent destructive hurricanes weve seen. All climate action matters now. Lets preserve and care for the beautiful, natural world that we live in, as well as our way of life. For those just elected, please consider how climate action will lead to a beautiful future, not just for this elective term, but for generations to come. Rebecca Thompson, High Bridge Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com The Star-Ledger/NJ.com encourages submissions of opinion. Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow us on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and on Facebook at NJ.com Opinion. Get the latest news updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Kathy Hochul, an unpopular governor who has never been mistaken for a skilled politician, has given the green light for congestion pricing in lower Manhattan, a plan that could be implemented as soon as Jan. 5. If you value cleaner air, traffic reduction, the revival of a crumbling, century-old subway system and a new fleet of electric buses, you know this makes sense, and we have often praised congestion pricing as a smart strategy that has worked to cut pollution and relieve congestion from London to Singapore. So we wish Hochul luck and hope she gets the plan rolling before Donald Trump returns to the White House, because he promises to terminate it faster than you can say climate-change-denying-arsonist. But congestion pricing is also likely to torpedo Hochuls career, and thats her own fault, because she took a tricky agenda for commuters to accept and butchered it by chasing away potential allies who have short tempers. New Jerseyans will cheer her political demise, with good reason: Hochul never once sought partners on this side of the river, and never considered giving New Jersey a share of the $2 billion in revenue that congestion pricing will generate annually, much of it from New Jersey drivers. And she roused hostile opposition from every New Jersey politician by slamming 20,000 of their constituents with a fee that was painfully steep the first time around. It was not a sound strategy for someone with a 34% approval rating. Hochul has since reduced the fee it will take for George Washington Bridge commuters to drive into Manhattans Central Business District -- from $15 per trip to $9 but asking any Jersey driver to fork over another $2,160 per year is failing to acknowledge this immutable truth: The two states have interconnected economies and transit systems, and her refusal to give our state a penny of it so it can upgrade NJ Transit only leads to lawsuits and angry statements from gubernatorial candidates. New York has a history of dumping their messes on New Jersey, said political scientist Matt Hale of Seton Hall. Congestion pricing could have been a win on both sides of the river, if she had treated New Jersey like a partner instead of an ATM machine. Instead, he added, Hochul took congestion pricing off the table in June to take a contentious issue for New York elected officials out of the 2024 election. But rather than solve it, she decided to dump the mess on New Jersey for our 2025 election. Or as Doug OMalley of Environment New Jersey put it, It was an unforced error to ice out New Jersey from the beginning. New Jersey drivers will pay the congestion tax and the vast majority of NJ commuters who ride the subway and the bus will ultimately benefit. But NJ Transit should receive a portion of the revenue just like Metro North and the LIRR. There would be increased support from New Jersey, if Hochul works to change the funding allocation. Congestion is a regional problem, congestion pricing is a regional solution, and transit funding should be shared regionally as well. Time for another re-up of mine & @jaqicohen's op-ed! If NJ Transit was really fixed, congestion pricing wouldn't be an issue. The best way to fight back is to make mass transit frequent, reliable, & affordable, so no one is forced to drive into the city.https://t.co/f7nMbJEkmm Alex CTF for NJT Ambrose (@alexfromNJ) November 14, 2024 If NJ Transit received the same 10% as LIRR and Metro North, it could have been a game-changer, many in Trenton believe. One clue: Rep. Mikie Sherrill, a likely candidate for governor, issued a statement whingeing about how the revenue paid by New Jerseyans will not go toward fixing NJ Transit in the second sentence. We asked her whether a 10% revenue share for Jersey would make the plan more palatable and earn her support. Sherrill -- who represents a district where only 1.4% of the New York commuters will incur a congestion fee -- did not respond, but those in her camp insist that the Congresswoman is always ready to advocate for a better deal. Granted, revenue sharing seems implausible at this late stage. The law would need to be changed if Hochul decided to give New Jersey a piece, and the New York legislature doesnt get back to Albany until January. So she must act now: Were about to embark on another phase of suicidal environmental stewardship, one in which the president of the United States will bray about the climate change hoax and pull the US out of global agreements made years ago to reduce the damage to the planet. This time, Trump is also armed with a Project 2025 blueprint that has 150 pages dedicated to anti-environmental policies and is loaded with phrases such as the perceived threat of climate change. And this time, his attack poodle will be an EPA director named Lee Zeldin (coincidentally, Hochuls opponent in her 2022 reelection), whose only environmental achievement was to be awarded the Oil Slick Award by environmental advocates from his time in the New York State Senate. So, it is incumbent on the rest of us -- New York and New Jersey to scale back on emissions in our own neighborhood and keep its mass transit operating in good order. A well-designed congestion pricing program would help accomplish that. To dismiss congestion pricing so disdainfully as New Jersey politicians are prone to do -- is to ignore a crisis that is sprinting toward critical mass. Our regional partner could have made it easier for us to do that. Whether it was arrogance or myopia, Gov. Hochul failed miserably. To comment on this Star-Ledger editorial, send a letter to eletters@starledger.com. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. #1 Northern New Jersey There's huge demand for better transit linking Jersey City, W New York, & Cliffside Parksome of the most densely populated parts of the country. And Newark's neighborhoods need better connectivity. pic.twitter.com/b7NcWb9Fx9 Yonah Freemark (@yfreemark) November 8, 2024 Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook. By Ryan Haygood White America, this ones on you. About 85% of Black people voted for Vice President Kamala Harris in this election. Of white people, who comprised 71% percent of voters, a majority 57% voted for Donald Trump. The way Black people showed up in this election brings to mind Nikole Hannah-Jones belief that More than any other group in this countrys history, [Black people] have served, generation after generation, in an overlooked but vital role: It is we who have been the perfecters of this democracy. Theres no doubt voting shifts in some communities of color must be studied so we can learn from them. But an outsized portion of the post-presidential election analysis has focused on what Black people, and Black men in particular, did not do. Concentrating on that at the expense of the white majority vote, which decided the election, is pure misdirection. The majority of white people re-elected a purveyor of hate, racism, misogyny, division, xenophobia and chaos. Why does this clarity matter? Because without it, even well-meaning white people fail to appreciate how we got here and the honesty and accountability required to respond. Ive been inundated with outreach from well-meaning white friends expressing dismay at the result. Many understand something terrible has happened but fail to appreciate that the root cause is white supremacy, and that this election was largely about the preservation of it. This level of vote was not because they were worried about grocery prices. They were worried about white privilege, white status, and sent the message that a multiracial democracy is fine as long as theyre at the top, Melanie L. Campbell told The New York Times. Without this clarity, the responsibility for addressing our challenges, as it too often is, will be assigned to Black and other people of color to solve a problem we did not create and cannot fix certainly not by ourselves. You see, Black people who have this clarity were not shocked at the results. Brokenhearted, yes. Because our deep and abiding love for this country, in which our ancestors were enslaved and which we built into the most prosperous on earth, compels us to pray and fight for better days, even as we are clear-eyed and intimate with the racism and sexism that stand against the realization of a better America. The kind of racism that has already manifested in reported text messages threatening to return us to slavery. So with that clarity, what next? I believe that even especially in the most difficult times lies an opportunity to harness our collective power to not only react, but to advance a bold vision. One in which we dont simply ask what Trump will do to us, but where we actively repair the harm of our enduring racism from the ground up in our communities. In New Jersey, where like America, we experienced a marked shift to the right, the New Jersey Reparations Council is leading an overdue conversation about our often-overlooked history of slavery and structural racism. The Councils work will propose transformative policies that will build a more equitable democracy less susceptible to anti-democratic forces and benefitting Black and all New Jerseyans. Were also waging a campaign for a New Jersey Voting Rights Act. The heart of the federal VRA has already been torn out by the Supreme Court and were prepared for it to be further decimated. We must protect New Jerseys voters, especially our Black and other voters of color, and build a more representative government truly accountable to the people. And were directly expanding our democracy by working with municipalities to follow Newark and lower the voting age to 16 for school board elections. Bringing young people into a democracy that hasnt been responsive to them is essential. Accountability means white people should join these campaigns, and our Legislature and Governor should turn the Reparation Councils proposals into law when its report is released next Juneteenth. In New Jersey, we wear a progressive halo betraying our history and racial inequities. Like in America, too many white people have not been honest with themselves about who we are which is a state that voted 46.3% for Donald Trump. That must stop. White people, here and across America, must embrace the truth about how we got here and have unblinded conversations with one another about whiteness what theyve been willing to tolerate, if not embolden. With this clarity, we can lean into this moment clear-eyed and unbowed by fear and self-delusion. We can finally create a multiracial democracy where we can all thrive, succeed and win. Ryan P. Haygood is President & CEO of the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice. To comment on this Star-Ledger editorial, send a letter to eletters@starledger.com. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook. Doltru (L) demonstrates weaving skill for an apprentice at her workshop in Dege County of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 3, 2024. Women in the Nayo family have excellent weaving skills. They can weave high-quality textiles using wool from yak and sheep. Doltru, born in Maisu Town of Dege County in 1960, is the inheritor and promoter of the Nayo family's weaving craft. With the help of her daughter Tashi Chogtso, the products of Nayo's workshop grow in abundance and popularity. On the western Sichuan plateau, with an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters, there are many traditional Tibetan craftsmen. Through inheritance and innovation, their handicrafts go out from the plateau to the domestic and overseas markets. (Xinhua/Shen Bohan) Doltru (front) weaves textiles at her workshop in Dege County of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 3, 2024. Women in the Nayo family have excellent weaving skills. They can weave high-quality textiles using wool from yak and sheep. Doltru, born in Maisu Town of Dege County in 1960, is the inheritor and promoter of the Nayo family's weaving craft. With the help of her daughter Tashi Chogtso, the products of Nayo's workshop grow in abundance and popularity. On the western Sichuan plateau, with an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters, there are many traditional Tibetan craftsmen. Through inheritance and innovation, their handicrafts go out from the plateau to the domestic and overseas markets. (Xinhua/Shen Bohan) Doltru is pictured at her workshop in Dege County of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 3, 2024. Women in the Nayo family have excellent weaving skills. They can weave high-quality textiles using wool from yak and sheep. Doltru, born in Maisu Town of Dege County in 1960, is the inheritor and promoter of the Nayo family's weaving craft. With the help of her daughter Tashi Chogtso, the products of Nayo's workshop grow in abundance and popularity. On the western Sichuan plateau, with an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters, there are many traditional Tibetan craftsmen. Through inheritance and innovation, their handicrafts go out from the plateau to the domestic and overseas markets. (Xinhua/Shen Bohan) Doltru weaves textiles at her workshop in Dege County of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 3, 2024. Women in the Nayo family have excellent weaving skills. They can weave high-quality textiles using wool from yak and sheep. Doltru, born in Maisu Town of Dege County in 1960, is the inheritor and promoter of the Nayo family's weaving craft. With the help of her daughter Tashi Chogtso, the products of Nayo's workshop grow in abundance and popularity. On the western Sichuan plateau, with an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters, there are many traditional Tibetan craftsmen. Through inheritance and innovation, their handicrafts go out from the plateau to the domestic and overseas markets. (Xinhua/Shen Bohan) Dawa Dakpa (R) gives instruction to an apprentice during a training session in Dege County of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 3, 2024. Dawa Dakpa was born into a family of craftsmen who have been carrying on the Lima Bronze casting technique for about 200 years in Maisu Town of Dege County. Dawa Dakpa learned from his father Nyima when he was young, becoming the seventh generation inheritor of the Lima Bronze casting technique. He is also the representative inheritor of "Tibetan metal forging skills" in Garze Prefecture, Sichuan Province. On the western Sichuan plateau, with an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters, there are many traditional Tibetan craftsmen. Through inheritance and innovation, their handicrafts go out from the plateau to the domestic and overseas markets. (Xinhua/Shen Bohan) Dawa Dakpa checks a new wax mould for making Lima Bronze product in Dege County of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 3, 2024. Dawa Dakpa was born into a family of craftsmen who have been carrying on the Lima Bronze casting technique for about 200 years in Maisu Town of Dege County. Dawa Dakpa learned from his father Nyima when he was young, becoming the seventh generation inheritor of the Lima Bronze casting technique. He is also the representative inheritor of "Tibetan metal forging skills" in Garze Prefecture, Sichuan Province. On the western Sichuan plateau, with an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters, there are many traditional Tibetan craftsmen. Through inheritance and innovation, their handicrafts go out from the plateau to the domestic and overseas markets. (Xinhua/Shen Bohan) Dawa Dakpa washes a product for further processing in Dege County of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 3, 2024. Dawa Dakpa was born into a family of craftsmen who have been carrying on the Lima Bronze casting technique for about 200 years in Maisu Town of Dege County. Dawa Dakpa learned from his father Nyima when he was young, becoming the seventh generation inheritor of the Lima Bronze casting technique. He is also the representative inheritor of "Tibetan metal forging skills" in Garze Prefecture, Sichuan Province. On the western Sichuan plateau, with an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters, there are many traditional Tibetan craftsmen. Through inheritance and innovation, their handicrafts go out from the plateau to the domestic and overseas markets. (Xinhua/Shen Bohan) Dawa Dakpa shows a product using Lima Bronze casting technique in Dege County of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 3, 2024. Dawa Dakpa was born into a family of craftsmen who have been carrying on the Lima Bronze casting technique for about 200 years in Maisu Town of Dege County. Dawa Dakpa learned from his father Nyima when he was young, becoming the seventh generation inheritor of the Lima Bronze casting technique. He is also the representative inheritor of "Tibetan metal forging skills" in Garze Prefecture, Sichuan Province. On the western Sichuan plateau, with an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters, there are many traditional Tibetan craftsmen. Through inheritance and innovation, their handicrafts go out from the plateau to the domestic and overseas markets. (Xinhua/Shen Bohan) Tashi Wang looks at Xianhu, a string instrument, at home in Batang County of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 5, 2024. Xianzi dance is a popular art form in Batang County. The 66-year-old Tashi Wang, a master of Xianhu string instrument, is the provincial inheritor of Batang Xianzi dance. In order to protect and inherit Xianzi dance and Xianhu making skills, Tashi Wang built a Xianhu making workshop in his house, and performed in various activities to demonstrate the rhythm of Xianhu and the charm of Xianzi dance. On the western Sichuan plateau, with an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters, there are many traditional Tibetan craftsmen. Through inheritance and innovation, their handicrafts go out from the plateau to the domestic and overseas markets. (Xinhua/Xu Bingjie) Tashi Wang (1st R) performs during Batang Xianzi dance in Batang County of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 5, 2024. Xianzi dance is a popular art form in Batang County. The 66-year-old Tashi Wang, a master of Xianhu string instrument, is the provincial inheritor of Batang Xianzi dance. In order to protect and inherit Xianzi dance and Xianhu making skills, Tashi Wang built a Xianhu making workshop in his house, and performed in various activities to demonstrate the rhythm of Xianhu and the charm of Xianzi dance. On the western Sichuan plateau, with an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters, there are many traditional Tibetan craftsmen. Through inheritance and innovation, their handicrafts go out from the plateau to the domestic and overseas markets. (Xinhua/Xu Bingjie) Tashi Wang is pictured in Batang County of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 5, 2024. Xianzi dance is a popular art form in Batang County. The 66-year-old Tashi Wang, a master of Xianhu string instrument, is the provincial inheritor of Batang Xianzi dance. In order to protect and inherit Xianzi dance and Xianhu making skills, Tashi Wang built a Xianhu making workshop in his house, and performed in various activities to demonstrate the rhythm of Xianhu and the charm of Xianzi dance. On the western Sichuan plateau, with an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters, there are many traditional Tibetan craftsmen. Through inheritance and innovation, their handicrafts go out from the plateau to the domestic and overseas markets. (Xinhua/Chu Jiayin) Tashi Wang performs during Batang Xianzi dance in Batang County of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 5, 2024. Xianzi dance is a popular art form in Batang County. The 66-year-old Tashi Wang, a master of Xianhu string instrument, is the provincial inheritor of Batang Xianzi dance. In order to protect and inherit Xianzi dance and Xianhu making skills, Tashi Wang built a Xianhu making workshop in his house, and performed in various activities to demonstrate the rhythm of Xianhu and the charm of Xianzi dance. On the western Sichuan plateau, with an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters, there are many traditional Tibetan craftsmen. Through inheritance and innovation, their handicrafts go out from the plateau to the domestic and overseas markets. (Xinhua/Chu Jiayin) Kunga Lobdue packages black pottery products for delivery in Maisu Town of Dege County of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 3, 2024. Kunga Lobdue, 39, is the inheritor of Sichuan provincial intangible cultural heritage "Maisu black pottery" and the founder of Maisu black pottery workshop. He has been busy making black pottery products for a catering company recently. On the western Sichuan plateau, with an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters, there are many traditional Tibetan craftsmen. Through inheritance and innovation, their handicrafts go out from the plateau to the domestic and overseas markets. (Xinhua/Wang Xi) Kunga Lobdue double-checks black pottery products for delivery in Maisu Town of Dege County of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 3, 2024. Kunga Lobdue, 39, is the inheritor of Sichuan provincial intangible cultural heritage "Maisu black pottery" and the founder of Maisu black pottery workshop. He has been busy making black pottery products for a catering company recently. On the western Sichuan plateau, with an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters, there are many traditional Tibetan craftsmen. Through inheritance and innovation, their handicrafts go out from the plateau to the domestic and overseas markets. (Xinhua/Wang Xi) Kunga Lobdue shows a black pottery product in Maisu Town of Dege County of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 3, 2024. Kunga Lobdue, 39, is the inheritor of Sichuan provincial intangible cultural heritage "Maisu black pottery" and the founder of Maisu black pottery workshop. He has been busy making black pottery products for a catering company recently. On the western Sichuan plateau, with an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters, there are many traditional Tibetan craftsmen. Through inheritance and innovation, their handicrafts go out from the plateau to the domestic and overseas markets. (Xinhua/Wang Xi) Kunga Lobdue (2nd L) makes black pottery product in Maisu Town of Dege County of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 3, 2024. Kunga Lobdue, 39, is the inheritor of Sichuan provincial intangible cultural heritage "Maisu black pottery" and the founder of Maisu black pottery workshop. He has been busy making black pottery products for a catering company recently. On the western Sichuan plateau, with an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters, there are many traditional Tibetan craftsmen. Through inheritance and innovation, their handicrafts go out from the plateau to the domestic and overseas markets. (Xinhua/Wang Xi) After I went to Communion, I joined the choir and learned the hymn Somebodys knocking at your door. The lyrics are simple and repetitive: Somebodys knocking at your door. Somebodys knocking at your door. Oh, sinner, why dont you answer? Somebodys knocking at your door. But this was no ordinary choir, and the Communion was not in a church but in an off-Broadway theater in Manhattan where Matthew LaBanca, a talented actor and musician, has turned his heartbreak into a drama to raise consciousness about LGBTQ discrimination in the Catholic school system throughout the U.S. LaBanca used to work as a music teacher at St. Joseph Catholic Academy in Queens and as the music director of nearby Corpus Christi Church. But on Oct 13, 2021, he was fired from both positions simultaneously because an anonymous person complained to the Diocese of Brooklyn about his wedding to his husband, Rowan, on Aug. 1, 2021. The reason was that same-sex marriage violates church teaching. The play reenacts the impersonal phone call between the pastor of the parish and a nun from the diocesan schools office informing LaBanca of his possible dismissal. Technically, Catholic schools consider all employees as ministers of the faith and have dismissed faculty on those grounds and courts uphold the firing. In his defense, LaBanca states in the play: You have called me a minister, but I am not ordained. I dont write homilies. I dont teach religion. I simply teach people music. He goes on to say marrying his partner enabled them to legally take care of each other. Further, God created him this way so I appeal to you, in turn, using the words of Pope (Francis), If a person is gay and seeks God and has good will, who am I to judge? Monsignor Jonas, the pastor, dismisses Francis words. But that is not a church teaching, he says. Its an opinion. LaBancas retort that, But hes the Pope goes nowhere. LaBancas firing made headlines at the time and at one point in the play, various visual screens play local news reports most prominently Michelle Charlesworth from WABC-TV Eyewitness News. In an interview before I attended the first preview of the play, LaBanca told me that since everyone knew he was gay for years, he did not expect to be fired. To be honest, I felt relatively immune since we live in New York City and theres such a progressive mindset here. After several years, he said, he decided to turn my pain into a story of hope and healing for others. Its why I wrote Communion. 9 1 / 9 'Communion' I first met LaBanca at our Pride Mass in Hoboken last June and soon learned what happened to him. I was unaware of his long show business credits. He has appeared in other Off-Broadway shows, regional theater and on television. He plays several musical instruments. And all of this talent is abundantly clear in his 65-minute solo performance. His theater classroom has an overhead projector and a blackboard dinosaur equipment compared to whiteboards and laptops today. And he creatively converts the audience into his church choir. The patrons happily oblige. You go from the joy he gets from teaching and directing choir to the depression he went through for the six weeks until the now retired Brooklyn Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio who was once pastor of Holy Rosary Church, Jersey City signs off on his termination. Then you see LaBancas hurt and anger, especially at the church. He cites their hypocrisy in singling him out: The laws that all ministers must abide by church teachings? What about the laws that say no one should use birth control? That no one should support abortion or the death penalty? That everyone should go to church on Sunday? Every employee meets these standards? David Harvie, an Edison resident who once lived in Jersey City, was in the audience. In 2017, he organized a historic LGBTQ pilgrimage to Sacred Heart Cathedral in Newark. Communion was deeply moving for those of us who have experienced firsthand the sin of homophobia within the church, he said. The church is human and too often inflicts spiritual violence on its members again and again. We expect the church to be moral and ethical but we, like Matthew, see that it often falls far short. LaBanca is offering complimentary tickets to any bishop who would like to see the show hoping they will see the personal trauma this policy inflicts on those fired. The Mass so beautifully begins with the Confiteor, where we atone for our sins, he said. The Catholic church is allowed to say, We were wrong, and we are sorry. LaBanca is now employed in a public school near the church and school he was fired from. He refused to sign a non-disclosure agreement with a settlement fee and did not sue. But hes undeterred. You cant go wrong, he said, when you prioritize love. The Rev. Alexander Santora is the pastor of Our Lady of Grace and St. Joseph, 400 Willow Ave., Hoboken, NJ 07030. Email: padrealex@yahoo.com; X: @padrehoboken. If you go ... Communion, a play by and starring Matthew LaBanca, continues through Dec. 8 at Nancy Manocherians the cell theatre, 338 W. 23rd St. in Manhattan. For tickets and information, go to CommunionThePlay.com. A small number of homes were under evacuation orders near a New York lake Saturday night after a wildfire that began in New Jersey last week was amplified by strong winds, causing the blaze to breach a containment line by firefighters. About 165 homes in Warwick, New York, were placed under voluntary evacuation orders Saturday when the Jennings Creek Wildfire pierced the containment zone, spreading four to five acres. The evacuations were conducted in a safe and orderly fashion by 10:35 p.m., New York Parks Department Jeff Wernick said. The fire did not threaten any homes nearby when it overcame the perimeter, Wernick said, adding that the evacuations were in place for emergency apparatus and firefighters to operate uninterrupted. They were expected to last until at least Sunday. Meanwhile, the fire was mostly contained over the border into Passaic County as of Friday. New Jersey firefighters said the blaze was about 90% but has burned through almost 2,300 acres in the Garden State and about 2,400 in New York. Saturdays evacuation orders did not affect any properties in New Jersey, Wernick said. Firefighters were staged Saturday night on Edgemere Avenue in Warwick, New York, a road that curves along Greenwood Lake in the Sterling Forest State Park. The state-protected lands park, lakefront area and historic furnace area remained open, but woodland activities, including hunting, have been stopped. A cluster of residences around the lake are unaffected, officials said. New Jersey fire officials were still investigating what caused the blaze to spark on Nov. 9 near West Milford. Firefighters will remain at the scene to improve containment lines in the upcoming days until the area records ample rainfall. The fire and others that have appeared in New Jersey have been powered by persistent drought conditions lasting for over a month. The conditions have greatly limited outdoor burning in the Garden State. The fight against the North Jersey fire comes while the National Weather Service predicted northwest winds between five to 15 mph in Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Passaic and Union counties for Sunday, making for an elevated risk of wildfire spread. Forecasters also projected humidity values of 20-30%. The fire contributed to an 18-year-old firefighter from New York being killed earlier this week when a tree collapsed onto him, authorities said. Two other New Jersey firefighters suffered injuries fighting the blaze over the last week, and firefighters from Montana were expected to arrive Friday to assist. Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription. Eric Conklin may be reached at econklin@njadvancemedia.com. Louisiana Inspired The past few years have left clergy burned out and exhausted. But that can change, say experts. Ready to embrace the future? Join Xinhua correspondent as we explore the low-altitude economy section at the 15th Airshow China in south China's Zhuhai, and see how innovation takes flight. LIMA, Nov. 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Saturday that the Taiwan question, democracy and human rights, China's path and system, and China's development right are four red lines for China, which must not be challenged or crossed. In his meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden on the sidelines of the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Lima, Peru, Xi also said that the one-China principle and the three China-U.S. joint communiques are the political foundation of China-U.S. relations. These are the most important guardrails and safety nets for China-U.S. relations, he said, adding that it is important not to challenge red lines and paramount principles. Xi said that contradictions and differences between two major countries like China and the United States are unavoidable, but one side should not undermine the core interests of the other, let alone seek conflict or confrontation. KINNITTY Post Office closed its doors to the general public recently when Post Mistress Breda Byrne worked her final day after 42 years in the role. Locals gathered at the Post Office and in Giltrap's Pub to thank Breda for her excellent service over the decades and to wish her the best in her retirement. Local Councillor John Clendennen said Breda had been a phenomenal cornerstone of the community, who contributed to the economic and social wellbeing of the area. She was always very friendly and accommodating, allowing locals to put up notices or posters if we wished. For 42 years she ran an excellent post office, where you could collect your pension, your social welfare, pay your electricity bill, buy stamps, toys and cards. She will be sorely missed. The Councillor posted a video online in which he thanked Breda for her many years of invaluable service. He also got a final stamp in his post office savings book, which he had been in possession of for 41 years. Feelings among locals were mixed on Thursday because while they were very glad to pay tribute to Breda and celebrate her tenure of the role, they were also disappointed that no one has yet been found to fill the vacancy. From this moment on there will be no Post Office services of any sort in the village and people will have to travel to either Birr or Crinkle Post Offices to collect their social welfare and pension payments, pay their electricity bills, and so on. For those who can't drive, they will either have to arrange a lift, or else take the Local Link bus which runs four to five times a day. A public meeting to save the Post Office was held in Kinnitty Community Centre on September 4th and 130 people turned up. There was a positive mood after that meeting with a sense that a couple of people in the room might have been interested in taking on the role. However, nothing came of it. Cllr Clendennen told The Midland Tribune that no stone was left unturned in trying to find a replacement Post Master/Post Mistress. We have worked very hard at it but unfortunately have found no one. I want to emphasise that the offer to fill the role is still very much open. An Post is still very much open to keeping the facility in the village if a person and a premises do come forward. He pointed out that the village has seen an increase in footfall in recent years, due to tourists availing of the mountain biking and walking trails in the area. Peavoy's, the coffee shop, has been open for five years and has been a roaring success; therefore there's an opportunity to be seized. At the September 4th meeting An Post said it is prepared to offer the village what is known as a Post Point Retailer Services solution to any interested retailer where local people will be able to purchase stamps, avail of mail and parcel drop off, bill payment and mobile top up services. However it became apparent during the meeting that this watered down version of the regular service wasn't a very popular option; and that the preferred model of service delivery would be to have a stand-alone post office in the village. Prior to the September 4th meeting Kinnitty GAA Club sent letters to a number of local representatives expressing their concern about the closure. The meeting was told that the PO played a very important social role in the community for the people of a wide area including Clareen and Drumcullen; and it was one of the village's essential fulcrums. The meeting was told that many are agreed that the closure would have a devastating effect on the area. It was pointed out that over recent years the village has lost five shops, two draperies, and three petrol pumps. Our Post Office is a lifeline for many, a vital service for the elderly and those without transport, one attendee pointed out. To lose it would see the further erosion of our rural community. We need to put a stop to this erosion, this decline. Hugh O'Connor from An Post's Regional Office in Portlaoise attended via zoom. We want to keep the Post Office going, he said, and we want to find a retail partner who will keep the service going. He said people who run Post Offices are not direct employees of An Post, but are contractors who provide the premises themselves and enter into a commission with An Post whereby the more services they provide each day, the more transactions over the counter, the more money they receive. Once someone comes forward and he or she is genuinely committed then we get into the financial and practical details of the service. We will provide the computers, CCTV and safes. The responsibility for the stocks and the cost of insurance lies with An Post. However, the contractor will need to provide public liability insurance for the customer area. He pointed out that the minimum space required to run a service is 3 metres by 4 metres. He said An Post is not a massively wealthy company like the Banks, and in 2018, because it was running into financial trouble it had to close 150 Post Offices. Things are pretty steady now and we are planning to expand our services into new areas, such as banking and foreign exchange. Packets and parcels will remain a major thing. The future looks bright. RIO DE JANEIRO, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- It is important to press ahead with the reform of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank and the World Trade Organization (WTO) and to increase the representation and voice of the Global South, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in a signed article published Sunday in Brazilian media outlet Folha de S. Paulo. The article titled "A Friendship Spanning Vast Oceans A Voyage Toward a Brighter Shared Future" was released as Xi is traveling to Brazil for the 19th G20 Leaders' Summit and a state visit to the country. BAGHDAD, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- Three members of the Peshmerga, the military of the Kurdistan Regional Government, including two colonels, were killed in a roadside bomb blast on Sunday in Salahudin province north of the Iraqi capital Baghdad. The bomb, planted earlier by the Islamic State (IS) group near the town of Tuz Khurmatu in eastern Salahudin, went off when a joint patrol from the Iraqi army and the Peshmerga passed near it, Mohammed al-Bazi from the provincial police command told Xinhua. The blast also wounded three Iraqi army soldiers, al-Bazi said. The security situation in Iraq has improved since the defeat of the IS in 2017. However, IS remnants have since sneaked into urban centers, deserts, and rugged areas, carrying out frequent guerilla attacks against security forces and civilians. AMMAN, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi met here on Sunday with visiting Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, during which both sides urged to stop the Israeli "aggression" on Gaza and Lebanon and the resulting humanitarian catastrophe. The two sides reaffirmed their continued support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees and rejected any attempts to diminish its role in violation of international law and further deepening the suffering of the Palestinian people, according to a statement released by the Jordanian Foreign ministry on social media platform X. They also discussed continued cooperation in delivering aid to Gaza and called on the international community to take immediate steps to end the unprecedented humanitarian crisis in northern Gaza caused by Israel's blockade on aid entry, said the statement. They stressed that building an independent and sovereign Palestinian state along the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, on the basis of the two-state solution, is the only path to achieving security, stability, and peace in the region, it said. They also expressed solidarity with Lebanon and called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. During their meeting, the two sides also discussed ways to strengthen bilateral ties and enhance cooperation in various fields, it added. Also on Sunday, King Abdullah II of Jordan met with Al Thani, during which the king said putting an end to the Israeli war on Gaza and Lebanon is the immediate step required to reach comprehensive calm in the region. According to a statement by the Royal Hashemite Court, the king urged intensifying Arab efforts to bolster the humanitarian response in Gaza and implementing the resolutions passed at the recent Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit in Saudi Arabia's Riyadh. President-elect Donald Trump began naming members of his Cabinet, choosing among loyalists who supported his return to the White House. Bill Bramhall leads the gallery with his view of Trumps pick for Secretary of State, Sen. Marco Rubio, saying the country could have done worse with the partisan bomb-thrower Steve Bannon. Joey Weatherford draws the far-left in meltdown, Wicked Witch of the West-style, over Trumps choices. Several cartoonists remark on the choice of former Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz to head the Department of Justice, noting an ethics probe into alleged relationships with underage girls. Nick Anderson recalls South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noems approach to handling a troublesome dog. President Joe Biden welcomed Trump to the White House for a meeting about the transition, prompting Dana Summers to recall Bidens sharp criticism of the former and future president. Bramhall hopes Trump leaves willingly in four years. The post-election finger-pointing among Democrats continued, with entries from Joel Pett, Walt Handelsman, Phil Hands and others. Another theme of this weeks editorial cartoons is the sharp divide between Republicans and Democrats over the election outcome. Mike Luckovich sums it up with two panels showing a reversal in upside-down flags, a common distress signal. Luckovich also revives Walt Kellys classic comic strip character Pogo, whose created the slogan We have met the enemy and he is us for an Earth Day poster in 1970. Other topics in this weeks gallery include Trumps shadow over U.N. climate talks; a federal court decision that blocked a Louisiana law requiring the Ten Commandments to be displayed in schools; and the early start of the Christmas season, weeks before Thanksgiving. Cartoons were drawn by Jack Ohman, Nick Anderson, Bill Bramhall, Dana Summers, Drew Sheneman, Walt Handelsman, David Horsey, Phil Hands, Joel Pett and Joey Weatherford of Tribune Content Agency; and Mike Luckovich, Steve Breen and Michael Ramirez of Creators Syndicate. Even in governmental agencies that genuinely value transparency, the release of public records can be painfully slow. The scope of a query, the sensitivity of the information and an agencys staffing can all drag out the timeline for fulfilling requests for public documents. But then there are the obstacles that dissuade public scrutiny by design. Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pedersons occasional use of her personal Gmail account for the publics business revealed in a lawsuit filed by her former deputy chief of staff falls squarely in that camp. As The Oregonian/OregonLives Austin De Dios reported last week, former Vega Pederson staffer Tabitha Jensen, currently the interim director of the countys Youth and Family Services division, has filed suit against the county alleging retaliation for highlighting potential public records violations. According to the story, Jensen had previously been directed by Vega Pedersons former chief of staff to send an email, which was critical of relations in the chairs office, to Vega Pedersons personal email account as opposed to her county address. But Jensen grew concerned that emails sent to the personal account were not being disclosed as required under Oregon public records law, the lawsuit contends. As county officials responded to a records request from The Oregonian/OregonLives Shane Dixon Kavanaugh, Jensen questioned three top-level county officials whether messages in Vega Pedersons personal account were being promptly turned over, court documents allege. While Jensens email to Vega Pederson was ultimately included in the records release, her attorney maintains that the message was shared only after Jensen had pressed the issue. Following that incident, the county passed over Jensen in choosing its permanent leader for the Youth and Family Services division, making the surprise announcement last month that Multnomah County Commissioner Lori Stegmann will take the job once her term on the board ends. In addition, Jensen was told she could not return to her position on Vega Pedersons staff and would be terminated, according to the lawsuit. While the courts will sort out the facts and legalities of Jensens allegations, the practice she exposed undermines both Vega Pedersons stated commitment to transparency and the publics ability to rightfully scrutinize government activity. In a call and emails with the editorial board, Vega Pederson defended her record on transparency, saying she very rarely uses her personal email account for county matters, but that people sometimes reach out to her through that address. She also said she did not know ahead of time that her former chief of staff, Chris Fick, had advised Jensen to email her on her personal account. She also pointed out that there are fewer than 200 county-related messages in her Gmail account since 2020 compared to more than 90,000 messages received and sent through her primary county address. Many of those Gmail messages, which the county released last Thursday, appear to be versions of the newsletters Vega Pederson sends out to constituents, although some cover more sensitive topics such as the message detailing Jensens criticisms and one sent by Fick that appears to discuss how he will transition from chief of staff to a position overseeing a homelessness response initiative. Vega Pederson emphasized that she recognizes such emails are public records and keeps them in a separate folder in her Gmail account to ensure their retention. Other elected officials similarly use personal accounts for governmental business, she said, arguing that her actions arent unusual. Even so, Vega Pedersons excuses dont explain why she would communicate with staffers over personal email. When asked if she ever forwards work-related emails from her personal address to her county account where it could be easily found in a search she said she does sometimes, depending on how busy she is. This is not an answer that builds confidence. As a general rule, conducting government business over personal email is a bad practice that takes public records out of a public agencys custody. Emails sent to personal accounts can evade public disclosure if those fulfilling a records request dont know or dont ask for emails on personal accounts that may be relevant to a request. While the county routinely asks for such additional records, Vega Pederson said, its up to the individual to find them and hand them over. That honor system approach also doesnt build confidence. The county has a policy that prohibits the use of personal cell phones for regular work needs except in specific circumstances. The reason, the policy states, is to reliably archive county records and safeguard county data and networks. And in fact, Vega Pederson points to that change as an example showing her commitment to transparency and meeting the letter and intent of Oregons Public Records law. Yet, theres no similar policy prohibiting the use of personal email accounts. Rather, the county has a set of rules governing the retention of work-related documents and reminding employees that records on personal devices are subject to disclosure laws. It remains to be seen what Jensens lawsuit finds regarding the disclosure of messages in Vega Pedersons personal account. But thats the problem with doing government work on non-governmental email. Transparency means that you dont have to rely on someones word that everything is out in the open. -The Oregonian/OregonLive Editorial Board Sign up for our free Oregon Opinion newsletter. Email: LIMA, Nov. 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden on Saturday affirmed the need to enhance international cooperation on artificial intelligence (AI) and promote AI for good for all. During their meeting on the sidelines of the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, Xi and Biden also stressed the need to maintain human control, instead of AI, over the decision to use nuclear weapons. Marcus Mundy, Elona J. Wilson and Tony DeFalco Mundy is the executive director of Building Power for Communities of Color. Wilson is the executive director of Next Up Action Fund. DeFalco is the executive director of Latino Network Action Fund. Their organizations are among those behind the Portland Voter Guide. As county elections officials tally the final results from Portlands historic 2024 election, our city is realizing the promise of groundbreaking inclusive democracy reform. For the first time in more than 100 years, every neighborhood in the city will have representation on the City Council. The Council will be the most diverse - by age, income, gender, race , and geography - in history. Sadly, a recent Oregonian/OregonLive story, tries to paint a picture of failure before every vote has been counted (Portlands ranked-choice debut causes voter engagement to crater; 1 in 5 who cast ballots chose no one for City Council, Nov. 12) While it looks like voter turnout in Portland may be lower than in past presidential elections, voter turnout in many urban counties across the country fell. More important, the citywide undervote rate in City Council races is virtually the same to the rates in both 2016 and 2012, according to an analysis by ranked-choice voting nonprofit FairVote based on Multnomah County elections data. We joined with other trusted community-based organizations led by Black, Indigenous and people of color to provide Portlanders with information about candidates and voting recommendations. In doing so, we lifted up voices that have been historically excluded from rooms of power, including Portland City Hall. As we look back on this election, we see success not just in the outcomes but in the process. Dozens of candidates offered to serve our city by running for mayor or City Council in our four new city districts. Tens of thousands of neighbors donated to campaigns that inspired them, amplified through Portlands small donor program. Hundreds of thousands of Portlanders made their voices heard by ranking candidates for City Council. Portland has achieved an unprecedented victory for voter choice. Every district has elected three City Council members to represent them. These councilors were elected with the support of more than 75% of City Council voters. In parts of the city that have rarely had a single councilor represent their district, there are now three. This has never happened before. Voters overwhelmingly supported the 2022 charter reforms including the district-based system with three councilors and are seeing how our new elections system is far better than the previous system. Our groups contacted hundreds of thousands of voters through mail, phone and online, and knocked on more than 23,000 voters doors. When our organizers were going house-to-house in East Portland, many of our neighbors told us that this was the first time anyone had knocked on their door. Ever. Many also told us they werent planning on voting in city council races, which would explain why that districts voting rate was lower as it has always been than the rest of the city. While the headline of The Oregonian story claims this was directly caused by the new method of voting, theres no proof of that and its irresponsible to imply otherwise. What we do know is that voters are skeptical about the value of voting, and they shared sentiments like politicians have never cared about people like me. The Oregonians reporting is more of the same kind of disenfranchisement that East Portlanders have experienced for generations - people making assumptions without the full story, yet insisting on telling someone elses story. With this election, Portland has emerged on the forefront of ensuring everyone has the freedom to vote for who best represents them. Our organizations and communities are committed to continuing to fight to expand access to democracy. Portland is well on its way to a more accountable, effective and representative government for us all. Sign up for our free Oregon Opinion newsletter. Email: Theres no better way to speedrun the full range of human emotion than with a quick stroll through the greeting card aisle. A few brisk strides and youve caught a sneak preview of most major life milestones: birthdays, marriage, parenthood, anniversaries, death all lined up in meticulous categories, all emitting the same predictable mass market glow. Sure, you might find what you need: A stock photo of a monkey in a party hat alongside the words Happy birthday, party animal! always does the trick. But what about those events that cant quite be emulated in a single, kitschy phrase? Where do you find a card that celebrates new mothers without seeming preachy? Or honors a loved one whos died in a way that feels genuine? Victoria Venturi asked herself the same questions shortly before launching Paper Epiphanies, a Portland-based feminist greeting card company thats been dishing out funny, heartfelt cards for more than a decade. It started when Venturis dad died suddenly from leukemia in 2013. Immediately, the condolence cards poured in standard sympathy notes memorializing his angelic spirit. Did you know my father? she found herself asking at the time. This was a man who loved his after-dinner cocktails and loved Bruce Springsteen and loved to crack that inappropriate joke. His death coincided with a new hobby of Venturis, something she picked up while preparing to get married earlier that year. To cut costs on a $5,000 wedding invitation suite shed been eying, she taught herself letterpress, a centuries-old printing technique that stamps images onto paper using ink. It felt like kismet, Venturi said and in 2014, she started printing greeting cards out of her one-bedroom apartment in Santa Monica, California. Paper Epiphanies, PiPH for short, began with a goal to create authentic cards that accurately reflect the human experience, but its since grown into an international brand that places women at the forefront. After opening its first brick-and-mortar on Southeast Clinton Street in 2021, the store brought its iconic designs and hot pink decor to Portland International Airport in August one of the first independent greeting card companies to set up shop in a United States airport. Victoria Venturi, founder of feminist greeting card company Paper Epiphanies, poses inside the store's Portland International Airport location.Veronica Nocera By women, for women Today, PiPH cards can be found in about two thousand retail chain locations and mom-and-pop shops across the world, everywhere from Hong Kong to the United Kingdom. Its a brand Venturi built basically from her bedroom first in her Santa Monica apartment and then a Los Angeles work loft with her husband and one that quickly took a feminist turn. I realized women are overlooked in a very unique way in the greeting card industry, Venturi said. Cards were created for specific moments of our lives that were supposed to have: You get married, you have a baby, you stay in line. And I was like, Well, all the women I know are not really doing those things. The cards youll find on the shelves of one of PiPHs physical stores are raw, honest and sometimes laugh-out-loud funny, a nod to Venturis brief stint on the stand-up comedy circuit. Paper Epiphanies, a feminist greeting card company, opened a location at Portland International Airport in August.Veronica Nocera Birthday messages are candid and uplifting (And on her birthday, she continued to do whatever the (expletive) she wanted and Swagger never ages are two bestsellers.) Sympathy cards range from reassuring (Loss dismantles us. And thats okay) to witty (Well, this blows.) One of the most popular sellers at PipHs airport store simply reads, I like banging you. After Venturi gave birth to her first child in 2017, she created The 4th Trimester Collection, a series that celebrates new mothers during a transition that, while beautiful, can also be challenging and complicated. I want a card for me after the babys born, Venturi said, not just for the baby. Paper Epiphanies, a feminist greeting card company, stocks cards for a variety of occasions, including some addressed to new mothers.Veronica Nocera Supporting women is at the core of everything PiPH does, from its cards to its aesthetic. When planning the PDX location, Venturi deliberately chose a construction firm that was willing to provide a woman project manager (Women make up only 10% of the countrys construction industry.). The flagship stores signature look a stationery dreamland spanning all shades of pink was reimagined at the airport by Arielle Weedman, a Portland-based interior designer. Paintings by local artist Abby Houston hang above shelves at greeting card store Paper Epiphanies' Portland International Airport location.Veronica Nocera The design also includes works from the Clinton Street stores artist-in-residence program, which invites a new creator to showcase their art and participate in a card collaboration each quarter. It adds an extra splash of color to an already vibrant, inviting space. When you come into an airport, the thing weve realized is that a lot of people are anxious, Venturi said. To find this little pink palace in the middle of their day is truly delighting and inspiring them. Taking flight at PDX PiPH may have found its roots in Los Angeles, Venturi said, but it was Portland that gave it its wings literally. After realizing the company had grown comfortably beyond her upstairs work loft, she began searching the West Coast for a city to house a PiPH warehouse. In 2016, she picked up and moved to Portland. We didnt have any family here. We didnt have any friends here. Venturi said. I wanted a city that believed in and supported entrepreneurs. The goal for the company was always to find the best ways to directly reach consumers. And when it came to foot traffic, she said, nothing could beat the airport. Paper Epiphanies, a feminist greeting card company, opened a location at Portland International Airport in August.Veronica Nocera PiPHs PDX location catches travelers attention before they even walk in the door: The entrance is illuminated by a massive sign bequeathing it with the title coolest card store in the world huge block letters bordered in (what else) a bright pink background. The table legs are pink. The shelves of bags, neck pillows, candles and other eye-catching trinkets are pink, and so is the pillar segmenting off the stores book corner. The neon light glowing above the iconic card wall is hot pink. The speakers vibrate with Beyonce, Charli XCX and other pop powerhouses and if pink had a sound, that would be it. Beyond cards, the store overflows with stationery: highlighters, stickers, notebooks, markers and an entire wall of different colored writing utensils. Paper Epiphanies, a feminist greeting card company, stocks a variety of art supplies, including markers and colored pencils.Veronica Nocera Its one of the only places in the airport where visitors can buy a pen, something Venturi quickly learned when black pens started flying off the shelves. Before a routine flight to Guadalajara, Mexico, shell sell up to 40 plain black pens to travelers looking to fill out customs papers. Venturi also collects and sends out mail as part of the companys Mail High Club. Not just postcards, either: In PiPHs first couple months, it collected thousands of pieces of mail, including stacks of election ballots and a letter addressed from a veteran to his bride. The airport is so full of humanity, Venturi said. I have thousands of new card ideas every day. A customer browses cards Paper Epiphanies, a feminist greeting card store at Portland International Airport.Veronica Nocera Veronica Nocera covers life and culture. You can reach her at vnocera@oregonian.com, 503-221-8111 or @vernocera People forced to flee from the northern Gaza Strip town of Beit Lahia are seen on a street in the Gaza City, on Nov. 17, 2024. At least 96 Palestinians were killed by Israeli bombing in the northern and central Gaza Strip in the past hours, the Hamas-run Gaza media office said on Sunday. (Photo by Abdul Rahman Salama/Xinhua) GAZA, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- At least 96 Palestinians were killed by Israeli bombing in the northern and central Gaza Strip in the past hours, the Hamas-run Gaza media office said on Sunday. The Israeli army bombed several residential buildings in Beit Lahia on Saturday morning, killing more than 72 people. Additional bombings in the Nuseirat and al-Bureij camps killed 24 people, the media office said in a statement. The attacks also left about 60 people wounded and more than 15 missing, it added. The targeted buildings housed dozens of displaced civilians, most of whom were children and women, the office said. The Israeli army has not commented on these reports. Earlier on Saturday, the Israel Defense Forces said that its air force had struck over 160 militant targets belonging to Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The strikes are part of Israel's ongoing large-scale offensive against Hamas in Gaza, launched in response to a Hamas rampage on Oct. 7, 2023. The attack killed around 1,200 Israelis and led to 250 individuals being taken hostage. The Palestinian death toll from Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip has risen to 43,799, Gaza-based health authorities said in a statement on Saturday. A child checks a house destroyed by an Israeli airstrike in the al-Bureij refugee camp of the central Gaza Strip, on Nov. 17, 2024. At least 96 Palestinians were killed by Israeli bombing in the northern and central Gaza Strip in the past hours, the Hamas-run Gaza media office said on Sunday. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) People forced to flee from the northern Gaza Strip town of Beit Lahia are seen on a street in the Gaza City, on Nov. 17, 2024. At least 96 Palestinians were killed by Israeli bombing in the northern and central Gaza Strip in the past hours, the Hamas-run Gaza media office said on Sunday. (Photo by Abdul Rahman Salama/Xinhua) This photo shows a house destroyed by an Israeli airstrike in the al-Bureij refugee camp of the central Gaza Strip, on Nov. 17, 2024. At least 96 Palestinians were killed by Israeli bombing in the northern and central Gaza Strip in the past hours, the Hamas-run Gaza media office said on Sunday. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) People check houses destroyed by an Israeli airstrike in the al-Bureij refugee camp of the central Gaza Strip, on Nov. 17, 2024. At least 96 Palestinians were killed by Israeli bombing in the northern and central Gaza Strip in the past hours, the Hamas-run Gaza media office said on Sunday. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) A man views houses destroyed by an Israeli airstrike in the al-Bureij refugee camp of the central Gaza Strip, on Nov. 17, 2024. At least 96 Palestinians were killed by Israeli bombing in the northern and central Gaza Strip in the past hours, the Hamas-run Gaza media office said on Sunday. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) In view of the Interpreter Foundations ever-declining productivity, its long-prophesied, eagerly anticipated, and rapidly accelerating downward spiral, the items below posted earlier today may perhaps represent your very last chance ever to see any trace of its existence. Unless, of course, you look in again next week. Or next month. Or next year. Interviews with Ben Spackman and Samuel T. Wilkinson On 18 October 2024, Daniel Peterson interviewed Ben Spackman, a Latter-day Saint historian of religion, science, and biblical interpretation, on the topic of Latter-day Saint views of evolution, and Dr. Samuel T. Wilkinson, an active Latter-day Saint who currently serves as an associate professor of psychiatry in Yale Universitys School of Medicine. The conversation with Dr. Wilkinson focused on Professor Wilkinsons recent book, Purpose: What Evolution and Human Nature Imply About the Meaning of Our Existence (New York and London: Pegasus Books, 2024). Dr. Spackmans background and formal training are exceptionally broad, including advanced work in Semitic languages, Biblical studies, the history of science, and the history of Christianity, with a primary focus on the Reformation and on modern American religious thought. He completed all of the coursework for a PhD in Comparative Semitics (effectively, in Old Testament Languages and Literature, as well as Arabic) at the University of Chicago, but ultimately received his PhD in American Religious History from Claremont Graduate University, where his dissertation explored twentieth-century Latter-day Saint attitudes toward evolution and creationism. In Purpose, Dr. Wilkinson argues for a religious dimensionindeed, a religious purposein evolution. Our coming into existence was not random, he contends, allowing for the possibility of an overarching purpose to our lives. But evolution seems to have shaped us in such a way that we are pulled in different directions: the dual potential of human nature. We also find ourselves in possession of free will. . . . [W]hen we bring it all together, it seems clear . . . that life is a test. A principal purpose of our existence is to choose between the good and evil inherent within us. Purpose was not written for a primarily Latter-day Saint audience, but elements of its argument will surely resonate with students of the Book of Mormon. Both conversations were recorded, and are now available for viewing below and on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nGtODuGEATc and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_qOXI48Ns40, respectively. A Closer Look at Transliterations in Divine Translations, written by Spencer Kraus Abstract: The Book of Mormon contains many words left untranslated by Joseph Smith, such as cureloms, cumoms, senine, and ziff. While some might wonder why these words are left untranslated, a closer examination of the kinds of words that are simply transliterated as well as the frequency at which these phenomena occur provide evidence that Joseph Smith actually had an ancient record that he was translating into English. In this paper, I examine why some words have been transliterated in historical translations of the Bible or other ancient texts and compare these explanations to the Book of Mormon. In the end, I show that the Book of Mormon consistently transliterates the same types of words typically left untranslated in other works in ways that would have been unknown to Joseph Smith. A Plain Exposition of Book of Mormon English by Means of Short Questions and Informed Answers, written by Stanford Carmack Abstract: Because many questions have arisen regarding the discovery of real early modern influence in the dictated language of the Book of Mormon, some of these are considered and answered in this essay. The answers reflect insights from an exploration of the data that drove the conclusions published in previous papers. Numerous considerations independently indicate that the Book of Mormon was dictated in language that cannot be explained as a mere imitation of King James linguistic style, nor as Joseph Smiths Yankee dialect. While the reasons for this and the processes that may have led to such results are open for debate, the implications of the data themselves cannot be lightly brushed aside. And the two articles above are accompanied by a pair of Interpreting Interpreter articles by Kyler Rasmussen. All of the Interpreting Interpreter articles may be seen at https://interpreterfoundation.org/category/summaries/. An introduction to the Interpreting Interpreterseries is available at https://interpreterfoundation.org/interpreting-interpreter-on-abstracting-thought/. Interpreting Interpreter: Examining Transliterations This post is a summary of the article A Closer Look at Transliterations in Divine Translations by Spencer Kraus in Volume 63 of Interpreter: A Journal of Latter-day Saint Faith and Scholarship. A video introduction to this Interpreter article is now available on all of our social media channels, including on YouTube at https://youtube.com/shorts/5kqmIQHJCZ0. The Takeaway: Kraus argues that the transliterated words of the Book of Mormon are the same types of words that translators often leave untranslated in other texts, suggesting that it really is a translation rather than a work of fiction. Interpreting Interpreter: Early Modern Q&A This post is a summary of the article A Plain Exposition of Book of Mormon English by Means of Short Questions and Informed Answers by Stanford Carmack in Volume 63 of Interpreter: A Journal of Latter-day Saint Faith and Scholarship. All of the Interpreting Interpreter articles may be seen at https://interpreterfoundation.org/category/summaries/. A video introduction to this Interpreter article is now available on all of our social media channels, including on YouTube at https://youtube.com/shorts/OC78CMrnmh8. The Takeaway: Carmack answers some key questions on the Early Modern English present in the Book of Mormon, clarifying ways that the text appears not to have come from the mind of Joseph Smith. Finally, I thoroughly enjoyed the online Interpreter Foundation master class on the Hebrew Scriptures that was taught last Saturday, from her home in England, by Dr. Margaret Barker. She will be doing the second part of her two-part seminar tomorrow (Saturday) at 11 AM. (While participation in last weeks presentation would, Im sure, be helpful, I dont believe that it is absolutely necessary.) I will be traveling tomorrow morning, but I hope to be settled down in time to catch the discussion live. Happily, though, videotapes of both master classes will eventually be made available on the Interpreter Foundation website. (That is, of course, if the Interpreter Foundation website survives so long!) By the way, the end of the year is approaching. In the United States, at least, because of the impact of the rules of the Internal Revenue Service, the next few weeks are peak charitable-giving time. So I hope that youll consider including the Interpreter Foundation among the causes that you choose to support. At least for our final expenses! Let me be blunt: some of yall dont know what an ally is, and thats causing harm for you and for our efforts to build a better world. An ally isnt a friend or a family member. Its not someone who supports you completely and unconditionally. An ally is someone you work with toward specific goals you share, even though you may disagree on other issues. And right now we need all the allies we can get. This is the fourth time Ive shared Margaret Killjoys post-election essay that includes the line De-escalate all conflict that isnt with the enemy. Thats an important idea, and it raises the question of who, exactly, is the enemy. And who isnt. Ive also seen a meme going around that says: If we dont start distinguishing between who is an enemy and who is an imperfect ally, we arent going to survive. If youre not with me youre against me may be biblical, but you dont have to be a Pagan to know its a decidedly unhelpful way of approaching relations with people who dont entirely agree with you. I think much of this misunderstanding especially in progressive circles comes from straight peoples interactions with the LGBTQ community. Things like Pride look like fun, and we really do love our LGBTQ friends we want to be part of the movement too. And so we say things like Im not gay, but I am an ally. What we mean is I dont share the core identity of this movement but I still want to be a part of it. [Whether straight allies belong in LGBTQ spaces is a question for LGBTQ people to decide. Personally, Ive gone into those spaces when Ive been invited by one of my LGBTQ friends. When I havent been invited it hasnt occurred to me to go. But thats not the question were dealing with in this post.] An ally isnt someone who supports you unconditionally, and who you support unconditionally in return. Thats family, especially chosen family. An ally is someone who fights at your side against a common enemy. Allies: the U.S. and Britain in World War II American participation in World War I was late and its entry was less than enthusiastic. After the war there was a strong isolationist movement Trump did not invent America First. When World War II broke out in 1939, the U.S. remained officially neutral, though the Roosevelt administration did its best to support Britain against Nazi Germany. After Pearl Harbor, though, the U.S. entered the war as a full participant and made defeating Hitler its top priority. The U.S. and Britain were and still are allies in the broadest sense of the term. The two countries have a shared heritage and a shared language. Theyre both representative democracies. Theyve always been strong trading partners. Sometimes our alliances look like the U.S. and Britain. We speak the same language, even if we pronounce some words differently. Allies: the U.S. and the USSR in World War II While the Communist movement had some popularity in the United States prior to World War II, few people especially those in power liked or trusted Joseph Stalin, particularly after he made a non-aggression pact with Hitler. But when Hitler broke that pact and invaded Russia, the USSR became an ally, in the classic sense of my enemys enemy is my friend. Roosevelt, Churchill, and Stalin met in person twice, to coordinate plans for the war and afterwards. The U.S. (the arsenal of democracy) provided the USSR with a considerable amount of war materials. Hitler didnt have the resources to fight a two-front war. The German army was weakened by its losses in Russia (at terrible cost to the Russian people) and made the 1944-45 invasion and victory in France and Germany possible. And then it all fell apart after the war. The U.S. and the USSR fought proxy wars and a Cold War for half a century. Was allying with the USSR the right thing to do? Of course it was. Defeating Hitler as quickly as possible was of utmost importance. Had he been able to conquer Russia, capture its resources, and then regroup, he could have ruled all of the European continent for years even if he wasnt able to conquer Britain. And he would have murdered a lot more than 6 million people. Sometime our alliances look like the U.S. and the USSR. We really dont like each other and we may have to fight each other eventually, but for now our common enemy is an immediate and existential concern. And so we work together. Stop trying to divide the world into good people and enemies Enough of the history lesson. Heres what matters now: most people are neither your ally nor your enemy. They dont know you. They dont care about you one way or another, except in some very high level Im supposed to love everybody and at least I try sense. Your enemies are the people who are actively trying to harm you and yours. Let me be absolutely clear: you get to determine who is actively trying to harm you and who isnt. And if you determine that someone is actively trying to harm you, you can and should cut them out of your life, no matter who they are or how closely youre related to them. But if you cut too many people out of your life, youre going to be awfully lonely. And if you isolate yourself from people who mean you no harm because you dont see eye to eye with them on every issue no matter how important an issue is you may find yourself standing alone when you need help. More importantly to our topic here, youll limit the number of people who could be helping you fight your common enemies. We cant afford purity At every election, I hear some people say stop voting for the lesser evil! And so as with the recent Presidential election the greater evil wins, and makes the country and the world a worse place for all of us. Now, Im all for getting better candidates. Id love to ditch the two-party system (although the structure of American government makes that virtually impossible). But accelerationism is making things worse with no indication theyll ever get better. That means voting for lesser evils to block greater evils. It means working with people who think your religion (or lack thereof) is wrong but who dont attempt to stop you from practicing it. It means working with people whose culture is significantly different from your own. Making things better incrementally often means getting your hands dirty. So be it. And also, punch all Nazis That doesnt mean we should ignore harmful behaviors and ideologies. Heres a link a story Ive seen on social media several times. Its about a bartender who threw a punk out of his bar. The punk wasnt doing anything, but he was wearing Nazi insignias. And the bartender knew that if he served him, the punk would come back with his Nazi friends, who would bring more Nazi friends, and eventually his bar would be a Nazi bar. The terms Nazi and fascist get thrown around too easily these days. Most people who voted for Trump arent Nazis, and not everyone who voted for him is a fascist although Trump himself is the textbook definition of a fascist: a rightwing, nationalistic, authoritarian dictator (or dictator-wannabe, at least so far). But when people show you who they are, believe them the first time. No frith with fascists. Punch all Nazis. A Pagan at an interfaith event Before the pandemic, Denton used to have two services for the National Day of Prayer. One was held at noon on the town square. It was run by fundamentalists who limited speakers to those who shared their exclusivist views on religion and their radically conservative views on politics. The second was held in the evening at a local church, and it included Methodists, Presbyterians, Lutherans, Catholics, Jews, Buddhists, Muslims, Pagans, and others. I gave the Pagan prayer on two occasions. We did not agree on theology. The Catholics had one view on abortion most of the rest of us had a different view. We had widely different views on immigration, especially on the best way to help vulnerable people. But we came together to support our country and to promote a spirit of understanding and cooperation. It goes beyond one prayer service a year. We work together where we can, and we treat each other with dignity and respect where we cant. We are not all the same theres a very good reason why we dont worship together. But we are allies in the battle against our common enemy of religious intolerance and political authoritarianism, and thats a good thing. Choose your allies strategically The Right accepts allies where ever they can find them. Baptists may think Catholics are Pagans (speaking as a Pagan, I assure you they arent) and Catholics may think Mormons are heretics, but that doesnt stop them from working together to end reproductive rights and harass LGBTQ people. The Left is more demanding. The idea of the Democratic Party as a big tent is long gone, and too many of us demand complete agreement before well even speak to someone else. If someone isnt actively harming you, and theyre moving in your general direction, then make them your ally. You dont have to like them. You dont have to agree with them on every point nor should you. You may realize that at some point, youre going to be on opposite sides. But If we dont start distinguishing between who is an enemy and who is an imperfect ally, we arent going to survive. Alan Watts died on the 16th of November. in 1973. For many reasons, some good, some less so, he continues to be a presence at that edge of North American spirituality where what has long been called East and West meet. Watts had a significant place in the earlier years of my spiritual life, and even today remains, if not so central, still significant. Again, for good reasons, and not so good. And, perhaps more important I believe he stands as a significant figure in the meeting of psychology and Eastern religions, as well as the introduction specifically of Zen to our popular Western imagination. For a lot of good and a lot of ill, Alan Watts cannot be ignored. In Zen Master Who? my history of Zen Buddhism come west I describe the first of the several times I met Alan Watts. This anecdote recounts my first, it was sometime, I believe, in 1969. I was on the guest staff of the Zen monastery in Oakland led by Roshi Jiyu Kennett. I was enormously excited to actually meet this famous man, the great interpreter of the Zen way. Wearing my very best robes, I waited for him to show up; and waited and waited. Nearly an hour later, Watts arrived dressed in a kimono, accompanied by a fawning young woman and an equally fawning young man. It was hard not to notice his interest in the young woman who, as a monk, I was embarrassed to observe seemed not to be wearing any underwear. I was also awkwardly aware that Watts seemed intoxicated. What follows Ive mostly cobbled together from earlier reflections. Ive written about him many times over the years. This appreciation was stitched together with a few new thoughts added in here and there. I certainly continue to think about him. Given that inauspicious beginning Im surprised at both how much his influence continues, both for the spiritual seeking community writ large, and for myself. He was the first person to write popular books about Zen in the West, beginning in 1937 with the Spirit of Zen, and more importantly in 1957 with his best selling Way of Zen. He drew mainly on the scholarly volumes just being written by D. T. Suzuki, the first person to write authentically about Zen in European languages, through Watts engaging style made enormously readable and genuinely compelling. As I summarized in my history, An erstwhile Episcopal priest, engaging raconteur, and scandalous libertine, Alan Watts was also a prolific author whose books created an inviting sense of Zen-as-pure-experience and a do-what-you-want spirituality. These qualities both led many people to Zen while also profoundly misrepresenting what the tradition actually taught. On that last note, some years later I attended a talk by an American Zen priest. At the end, during the question and answer period, someone asked about Watts. The priest sighed, and then said, I know theres a lot of controversy about Alan Watts and what he really understood about Zen. He paused. And then, added, But, you know, without Alan Watts, I wouldnt be standing here on this platform. I have to say, in large part, thats true for me as well. In the 1960s and 70s, Alan Watts opened some important doors for many of us looking for a new way. Im not really sure another version, a more accurate version of Zen would have caught the popular imagination. So, messy. Kind of like life. Over these passing years Ive come to feel the title of his biography In My Own Way and the title of the English edition of Monica Furlongs biography of him, Genuine Fake, taken together points to the complexities of this intriguing Anglo-American Zen trickster/ancestor of our contemporary spiritual scene. There are numerous critiques, pretty much all of them deserved. Its my conviction that Alan Watts was at his very best during a brief period when he tried at practice, discipline, and effort. Or, at least stood in their general neighborhood. Raised in England, his natal tradition was Anglicanism. Although he formally abandoned it by sixteen for the eclectic Buddhism of the London Buddhist Society. In his late twenties, having come to America and desperate for an occupation that paid something, he decided to become an Episcopal priest. However, he had not attended college. For most this would be an insurmountable barrier. But by providing a very long list of the books he had read and then showing a suspicious faculty he had not only read them, but profoundly absorbed them, Watts was admitted into the divinity program at Seabury-Western Theological Seminary in Evanston, Illinois. Watts graduated with a masters degree in divinity and was ordained an Episcopal priest in 1945. He was immediately engaged as the Episcopal chaplain at Northwestern University. He was thirty years old. It appears to have been an amazing moment. He was wildly popular on campus, and his books were received in progressive religious circles as challenging and compelling. Out of this period he wrote what I consider his most interesting contribution, a meeting of Christianity and the wisdoms of the East, especially Buddhism, Behold the Spirit: A Study in the Necessity of Mystical Religion. And then within five years Watts was out of the ministry, for many reasons not least of which was when his wife sued for an annulment on grounds of adultery. This part would become something of a pattern for his life. Another area where he did pioneering writing, and for which he gets less attention is within the meeting of Western psychology and Eastern religions, particularly Buddhism. Looking at Psychotherapy East and West, I not only found myself reading that I thought Id discovered on my own, but that in fact Watts had pointed me toward pushing on to fifty years ago. Today for those wanting to explore the depths found within the meeting of psychology and Eastern perspectives, specifically, most specifically Buddhism, there are a host of authors whove continued and deepened this exploration. That said, Alan Watts is still worth reading, or, for some of us, re-reading. He is lucid, he is inviting, possibly he is seductive. Alan Watts vision of a spiritual psychology is an invitation into a world at play, where God is playing peek a boo with himself, herself, itself. Here were invited into that play in the fields of the Lord. So, thank you Mr Watts! Incense bows, and thanks for the constant reminder to be wary of what people say. Maybe especially those who have some genuine gifts to offer SHENZHEN, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- The U.S.-China Political Dialogue 2024 was held in Shenzhen on Sunday, with the two sides having candid, profound and constructive communications under the theme of "Cooperation and Challenge under New Circumstances: The Path Forward for China-U.S. Relations." Liu Jianchao, head of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, attended the dialogue and delivered a key speech. The two sides agreed that a stable, healthy and sustainable China-U.S. relationship serves the common interests of both countries and is also the common expectation of the international community. It is also their common belief that China and the United States should maintain contact and communication, properly manage differences, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, promote cultural and people-to-people exchanges, and shoulder their responsibilities as major countries in promoting world peace and development. They also expressed the belief that with multi-dimensional and multi-faceted characteristics, the China-U.S. relationship faces many uncertainties, but at the same time has strong resilience. The two sides agreed to continue their political dialogue. We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form LIMA, Nov. 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Saturday that if the U.S. side always says one thing but does another, it will be detrimental to its own image, and undermine trust between China and the United States. In his meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden on the sidelines of the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Lima, Peru, Xi said it is important to match words with actions. A man cannot establish himself without credibility, Xi said, adding that China has always honored its words. People walk past the logo of APEC 2024 outside the Lima Convention Center in Lima, Peru, Nov. 13, 2024. (Xinhua/Mariana Bazo) * Despite headwinds and undertows, economic globalization has always been the general trend, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in a written speech addressing the APEC CEO Summit 2024. * The attempt to block economic cooperation under all sorts of pretexts and break up the interdependence of the world is nothing but backpedaling, Xi said. * Tougher times call for greater confidence, said the Chinese president. "We should see to it that economic globalization generates more positive outcomes and is taken to a new phase that is more dynamic, inclusive and sustainable." LIMA, Nov. 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for efforts to steer economic globalization in the right direction, jointly promoting a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization to the benefit of various countries and communities. In a written speech addressing the APEC CEO Summit 2024 on Friday, Xi said the entire Asia-Pacific is deeply woven into the fabric of economic globalization, and is now an interdependent community with common interests and a shared future. On the other hand, the world is in a new period of turbulence and transformation, said Xi, warning that the grave challenge of economic globalization is like sailing up a river -- we either forge ahead or drift downstream. "Where will the Asia-Pacific economy be going? It is a decision we must make," Xi said. Economic globalization is an objective requirement of growing social productive forces, and a natural outcome of advancement in science and technology, he said, adding that despite headwinds and undertows, economic globalization has always been the general trend. The attempt to block economic cooperation under all sorts of pretexts and break up the interdependence of the world is nothing but backpedaling, Xi said. Tougher times call for greater confidence, said the Chinese president. "We should see to it that economic globalization generates more positive outcomes and is taken to a new phase that is more dynamic, inclusive and sustainable." "First, we should take innovation as the driving force for stronger growth of the world economy," Xi said. He said advances in science and technology should benefit the entire humanity. "We should help developing countries with their capacity building in science and technology and promote global flow of knowledge and technologies." "Second, we should keep pace with the times and reform the system of global economic governance," he said. He added that the principles of "plan together, build together and benefit together" should be followed, the representation and voice of the Global South should be enhanced continuously, and all countries should be ensured of equal rights, equal opportunities and equal rules in conducting international economic cooperation. Xi called for building an open world economic system, and efforts to keep the global industrial and supply chains stable and smooth. "Third, we should always take the people-centered approach and seek to settle imbalances in development," he said. Global prosperity and stability cannot be achieved when the rich get richer and the poor poorer, Xi said, noting true development means common development of all countries. "We should pursue economic globalization that is people-centered and delivers more balanced development and more equal opportunities, so that different countries, classes and communities can all benefit from development," he said. This photo shows the logo of APEC 2024 in Lima, Peru, Nov. 13, 2024. (Xinhua/Mariana Bazo) Asia-Pacific economies have maintained robust growth and created the remarkable Asia-Pacific miracle, Xi stressed. "The success of the Asia-Pacific is due to our firm commitment to peace and stability in the region, to our continuous practices of true multilateralism and open regionalism, and to our deep faith in the trend toward economic globalization as well as mutual benefit and mutual success," he said. Xi said the Asia-Pacific should remain the locomotive of economic globalization in the future. "While further burnishing the Asia-Pacific hallmark of openness and inclusiveness, we should make new brand-building efforts to foster a green and digital Asia-Pacific, build an Asia-Pacific community with a shared future, and usher in another 30 golden years of development for our region," he said. During the Third Plenary Session of its 20th Central Committee in July, the Communist Party of China adopted a comprehensive plan for further deepening reform across the board to advance Chinese modernization, said Xi. China will deepen reform comprehensively and continue to provide robust momentum for the world economy, Xi noted, adding the country has full confidence in meeting the growth targets for this year and remaining the biggest engine of world economic growth. Noting that China will advance high-quality development and continue to lead the efforts to improve the performance of the world economy, he said China will continue to nurture new quality productive forces in line with actual conditions, and is committed to high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. China will stay firmly on the path of green development and continue to be an important force for global green transition and an important part of the global effort to address climate change, Xi said. He said China will build new, open and higher-standard economic systems, continue to share China's development opportunities with the world, introduce more policies for voluntary and unilateral opening up, expand its globally oriented network of high-standard free trade areas, and open its door even wider to the world. Xi noted that China's development is inseparable from the Asia-Pacific, and it will in turn further benefit the region. "As long as we act in the spirit of openness and connectivity, the vast Pacific will become a thoroughfare for more prosperity and growth," he said, calling for joint efforts to enhance solidarity and cooperation, stand up together to the global challenges, and form a mighty force for the common prosperity of the world and a brighter future for humanity. PR-Inside.com: 2024-11-17 00:00:12 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 408 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / November 15, 2024 / Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against The Toronto-Dominion Bank ("TD Bank" or the "Company") (NYSE:TD). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@ pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.The class action concerns whether TD Bank and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.You have until December 23, 2024, to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you are a shareholder who purchased or otherwise acquired TD Bank securities during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com [Click here for information about joining the class action]On October 10, 2024, TD Bank disclosed that it had pleaded guilty and agreed to pay over $3 billion in penalties to resolve investigations by U.S. authorities into violations of the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) and money laundering. The resolution of the investigations also included an asset cap preventing TD Bank's U.S. subsidiaries from collectively exceeding $434 billion in assets and subjects TD Bank to more stringent approval processes for its products, services, and market rollouts. In a corresponding press release, the U.S. Department of Justice described TD Bank as "the largest bank in U.S. history to plead guilty to Bank Secrecy Act program failures, and the first US bank in history to plead guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering." On this news, TD Bank's stock price fell $4.07 per share, or 6.41%, to close at $59.44 per share on October 10, 2024.Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered billions of dollars in damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.SOURCE: Pomerantz LLP LIMA, Nov. 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday told U.S. President Joe Biden that Washington should handle the Taiwan question with extra prudence. If the U.S. side cares about maintaining peace across the Taiwan Strait, it is crucial that it sees clearly the true nature of Lai Ching-te and the DPP authorities in seeking "Taiwan independence," handles the Taiwan question with extra prudence, unequivocally opposes "Taiwan independence," and supports China's peaceful reunification, Xi said when meeting with Biden on the sidelines of the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Lima, Peru. Cross-Strait peace and stability and "Taiwan independence" separatist activities are irreconcilable as water and fire, Xi said. SANAA, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- Yemen's Houthi group announced on Sunday it had launched a fresh drone attack on Israel. In a televised statement, Houthi spokesperson Yahya Sarea said the operation was carried out "in support of the Palestinian and Lebanese peoples," targeting a number of "military and vital targets" in the Israeli cities of Jaffa and Ashkelon. "The operation was carried out by a number of drones and achieved its goals successfully," he added, vowing that his group would launch more attacks until Israel stops its war in Gaza and Lebanon. The latest attack occurred less than 24 hours after the Houthi group claimed responsibility for a drone strike on the southern Israeli port city of Eilat on Saturday. Israel has yet to comment on the Houthi strikes. Since November 2023, the Houthi group has launched rocket and drone attacks on Israel to show solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza amid their ongoing conflict with Israelis. JERUSALEM, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- Israel's military on Sunday claimed responsibility for an airstrike in central Beirut that killed Hezbollah's media relations chief Mohammad Afif. The midday strike targeted a multi-story building in the Ras al-Nabaa district without prior evacuation warnings, killing at least four people, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry. Afif joined Hezbollah in the 1980s and served as a media advisor to the group's late leader, Hassan Nasrallah, who was assassinated by Israel in late September. In a statement, the Israel Defense Forces described the attack as "an intelligence-based strike," alleging that Afif "directed Hezbollah operatives to gather field footage for use in propaganda and psychological warfare." This photo shows the fire caused by Israeli airstrikes in central Beirut, Lebanon, on Nov. 17, 2024. Two people were killed and 22 others injured on Sunday night in an Israeli airstrike targeting Mar Elias, a densely-populated neighborhood in Beirut, according to Lebanon's health ministry. (Str/Xinhua) BEIRUT, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- Two people were killed and 22 others injured on Sunday night in an Israeli airstrike targeting Mar Elias, a densely-populated neighborhood in Beirut, according to Lebanon's health ministry. Local TV channel Al-Jadeed reported that the airstrike targeted Hezbollah's head of operations on the southern front, Mahmoud Madi, but his fate remains unknown. The channel reported that the airstrike targeted Madi Technology, an electronics shop owned by Hassan Madi, the brother of Mahmoud Madi. The explosion of electronic devices at the shop following the airstrike triggered a massive fire. Civil defense teams quickly arrived on the scene to extinguish the fire, while ambulances were dispatched to transport the injured to the hospital. Since Sept. 23, the Israeli army has intensified airstrikes on Lebanon in an escalation of conflict with Hezbollah. In early October, Israel launched a ground operation across its northern border into Lebanon. This photo shows the fire caused by Israeli airstrikes in central Beirut, Lebanon, on Nov. 17, 2024. Two people were killed and 22 others injured on Sunday night in an Israeli airstrike targeting Mar Elias, a densely-populated neighborhood in Beirut, according to Lebanon's health ministry. (Str/Xinhua) This photo shows the fire caused by Israeli airstrikes in central Beirut, Lebanon, on Nov. 17, 2024. Two people were killed and 22 others injured on Sunday night in an Israeli airstrike targeting Mar Elias, a densely-populated neighborhood in Beirut, according to Lebanon's health ministry. (Str/Xinhua) GUANGZHOU, China, Nov. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- News report from GDToday: "This is a journey to seek the 'spikes' that bind. Chinese railroad workers are like the railway spikes firmly connecting China and the United States. They not only helped America build its first transcontinental railroad but also strengthened the bond between two nations across the Pacific." These are the heartfelt words of William, who hails from Salt Lake City, Utah, after his two-month journey retracing the path of Chinese railroad workers across China and the U.S. The year 2024 marks the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the U.S. and the 155th anniversary of the completion of the American Transcontinental Railroad, formerly known as the Pacific Railroad. A year ago, on November 15, Chinese President Xi Jinping mentioned the story of Chinese workers who contributed to building the Pacific Railroad 158 years ago in his speech at the Welcome Dinner by Friendly Organizations in the United States following a meeting with the U.S. President. Dubbed one of the seven industrial wonders of the world since the Industrial Revolution, the Transcontinental Railroad was a feat of engineering that relied on the labor of over 10,000 Chinese workers, most of whom hailed from Guangdong Province. These Chinese railroad workers undertook the most challenging western section of the railway, enduring harsh weather conditions and excavating 15 tunnels through the solid rock of the Sierra Nevada, achieving what seemed impossible. On May 10, 2024, the 155th anniversary of the railroad's completion was celebrated at the Golden Spike National Historical Park in Utah. The event re-enacted the historic moment when the eastern and western sections of the railroad were joined, and the ceremonial golden spike was driven into the track. The celebration also recreated the iconic photograph taken at the 1869 ceremony. William played the role of a Chinese railroad worker at the event. His father, Pat Santee, is an American, and his mother, Siu Lin Chen Santee, is from Guangdong, China. Both parents are active members of the Chinese Railroad Workers Descendants Association, advocating for historical research, heritage preservation, and public education on the contributions of Chinese railroad workers. Inspired by his parents and intrigued by the absence of Chinese workers in the 1869 celebration photo, William decided to embark on his own journey. He sought to uncover what transpired on this land 155 years ago, why Chinese workers crossed the Pacific to the United States, and the critical role they played in constructing the Transcontinental Railroad. GDToday documented William's journey in its entirety. Starting from Promontory Summit in Utah, through the snowy Donner Pass, to the sunlit shores of San Francisco, William retraced the western section of the railroad built by Chinese workers. Along the way, he uncovered traces of their struggles and triumphs and sought expert insights to reconstruct the historical narrative. After concluding his U.S. tour, William, at his mother's suggestion, traveled to Guangdong, the homeland of the railroad workers and his family. In Jiangmen, he visited descendants of railroad workers and their ancestral villages and paid his respects at the Xinhui Huangzhukeng Overseas Chinese Cemetery. William's two-month journey across China and the U.S. culminated in Salt Lake City, where he participated in the "My Story with the Golden Connection" storytelling event hosted by GDToday. Reflecting on his journey, William said, "It has been an honor to portray Chinese railroad workers during the Golden Spike celebrations. After walking the railroads they built and visiting their hometowns, I feel an immense sense of pride in this role." "The wisdom and courage of Chinese workers helped build America's first transcontinental railroad and paved the way for the development of their hometowns. The enduring spirit of the Chinese railroad workers whose remains live beneath Sierra Nevada's eternal snow should be remembered, honored, and respected forever," William said. Click to watch the full video: https://www.newsgd.com/node_d36b0ef83f/867bf72e61.shtml SOURCE GDToday BEIJING, Nov. 17, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- From the arrival of the first ship at Chancay Port to its official inauguration, the port has gained global attention in recent days, boosting confidence in the prospects of more open and inclusive Asia-Pacific economic development. The port, a cooperative project between Peru and China under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), will reduce sea shipping time from Peru to China to 23 days, cutting logistics costs by at least 20 percent. It is expected to generate $4.5 billion in annual revenue for Peru and create over 8,000 direct jobs. The port, capable of accommodating ultra-large container ships with a capacity of 18,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), has a designed annual throughput capacity of 1 million TEUs in the near term and 1.5 million TEUs in the long term, positioning it as a key hub for trade between Latin America and Asia. Noting that the port connects Chancay and Shanghai, Chinese President Xi Jinping remarked that "what we are witnessing is not only the root and blossom of the BRI in Peru but also the birth of a new gateway that connects land and sea, Asia and Latin America" during his address via video link at the port's inauguration ceremony. Peruvian officials: 'More job opportunities and economic growth' brought to Peru Senior Peruvian officials and ordinary citizens have said they are looking forward to benefiting from the first smart and green port in South America. Prime Minister of Peru Gustavo Adrianzen said that cooperation between China and Peru, including the Chancay Port project and other fields, will bring more job opportunities and economic growth to Peru, improving people's living standards. Jose Tam, president of the Chinese-Peruvian Chamber of Commerce, talked about the significance of Peru's Chancay megaport with CGTN, saying the port will be an "engine" for the local economy. Juan Carlos Capunay, former executive director of the APEC Secretariat and former Peruvian ambassador to China, also stated that the port will play an important role in deepening bilateral relations and fostering practical cooperation between China and Peru. Entrepreneur Cielo Augusto from Chancay said he is looking forward to building the first levels of business while noting that industries such as hospitality will also be boosted, as there will be a significant influx of people from abroad. "The port will save time, increase efficiency and bring new opportunities to Peru," Karla Santuyomarca, a Peruvian citizen, told CGTN. Some 78.3 percent of respondents to a CGTN survey of Peruvians said they support their country's participation in the BRI, which includes Chancay Port. Additionally, 93.6 percent of respondents expressed support for deepening practical cooperation in various fields between China, Peru and other Latin American countries. Open, interconnected Asia-Pacific cooperation With its official opening on Thursday, Chancay Port is expected to integrate the entire Latin American region into the dynamic economic framework of the Asia-Pacific, greatly enhancing connectivity within and beyond the continent. Peruvian Foreign Minister Elmer Schialer Salcedo said, "The Pacific Ocean does not separate us, but it connects us," adding that Chancay Port will halve the time and costs of connecting South America with Asia. Carlos Aquino Aquino Rodriguez, professor of Asian economies at San Marcos National University, said the port is crucial to the economic development and connectivity of the Asia-Pacific and can also promote mutual benefits for raw material buyers, suppliers of manufactured goods and investors. In a CGTN global poll on Asia-Pacific cooperation, 93.7 percent of respondents called on all parties in the region to forge consensus and build an Asia-Pacific community with a shared future featuring openness and inclusiveness, innovative growth, connectivity and win-win cooperation. https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-11-17/How-does-Chancay-Port-light-up-Asia-Pacific-cooperation--1yAAAYcaP28/p.html BEIJING, Nov. 17, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Over the decades, the Asia-Pacific region has been a vital driver of global economic growth. In October, the International Monetary Fund predicted the region would contribute approximately 60 percent to global economic growth in 2024. At the same time, Asia-Pacific cooperation is confronted with challenges such as rising tendencies of geopolitics, unilateralism and protectionism. In this regard, Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday called on leaders of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) members to shoulder greater responsibilities. "We must act in solidarity and cooperation to meet the challenges, fully deliver on the Putrajaya Vision 2040, build an Asia-Pacific community with a shared future, and start a new era in Asia-Pacific development," said Xi, when attending the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Peru's capital Lima. China's proposal To deepen Asia-Pacific cooperation, the Chinese president on Saturday made three proposals. Firstly, Xi stressed the need to build an open and interconnected paradigm for Asia-Pacific cooperation, calling for staying committed to multilateralism and an open economy. China has made great efforts towards an open Asia-Pacific economy. According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, China is the largest trading partner of 13 APEC economies and has actively advanced the building of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area, promoted high-quality implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), and applied to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement. Secondly, Xi emphasized the need to make green innovation a catalyst for the Asia-Pacific, saying APEC economies should push forward coordinated digital and green transformation and development to create new momentum and new drivers for Asia-Pacific development. China is developing new quality productive forces in light of actual conditions and deepening cooperation with interested parties on green innovation. Xi announced on Saturday that China will launch a Global Cross-Border Data Flow Cooperation Initiative. China has put forward initiatives for cooperation between APEC member economies in green agriculture, sustainable city development, green and low-carbon energy transition, and marine pollution control and prevention. The Chinese president also urged efforts to uphold a universally beneficial and inclusive vision for Asia-Pacific development. The data unveiled by the Chinese Foreign Ministry showed China contributes 64.2 percent of the region's economic growth, 37.6 percent of the growth in goods trade, and 44.6 percent of the growth in services trade. Xi told APEC leaders that China will advance initiatives through the APEC platform on increasing residents' income and promoting the industrial cluster development of small- and medium-sized enterprises, for the purpose of bringing about universally beneficial and inclusive development of Asia-Pacific economies. China's commitments China will host the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in 2026, Xi announced on Saturday, saying China welcomes all parties to continue riding the "express train" of its development and grow together with the Chinese economy. The Chinese president reiterated China's commitments to reform and opening up. "Reform and opening up is a historic process in which China and the world achieve development and progress together," he said. The 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, at its third plenum in July, laid out systematic plans for further deepening reform across the board with more than 300 consequential reform measures being unveiled, pertaining to building a high-standard socialist market economy, advancing high-quality economic development, promoting high-standard opening up, improving the people's quality of life, and building a beautiful country. In his written speech at the APEC CEO Summit on Friday, Xi also said China will introduce more policies for voluntary and unilateral opening up, expand its globally-oriented network of high-standard free trade areas, and open its door even wider to the world. https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-11-17/Starting-a-new-era-in-Asia-Pacific-development-amid-global-uncertainty-1yAvmNr7lYc/p.html Curator brings together every type of data across a dealership and normalizes, cleanses, and deduplicates it, creating a single unique view of every customer. HOUSTON and TEL AVIV, Israel, Nov. 17, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Gubagoo, the leading provider of digital retailing and conversational commerce for automotive dealerships, announced today Curator, the first Unified Intelligence Engine for automotive retailers. Powered by Fullpath, the automotive industry's leading customer data platform (CDP) and marketing automation platform, Gubagoo's Curator has unified all three types of data transactional, demographic, and behavioral and made it actionable. Curator collects and unifies first-party data from multiple sources to build a single, complete view of each customer. Dealerships can then use this data for powerful customer and user activation giving consumers the 1:1 personalization they expect in today's environment. While dealerships sit on a wealth of data, one of the biggest challenges they face is leveraging their strong datasets to impact their business strategy and improve the client experience. The root cause is data siloed in disparate applications, spread across multiple or duplicate customer records, sources, reporting tools, and vendors. Through the partnership, Fullpath provides accurate first-party behavioral data fueled by its powerful analytics engine, identity resolution, and website traffic attribution. Gubagoo and its parent company, Reynolds and Reynolds, bring a view from inside the dealership with transactional and demographic information, leveraging the richest first-party data in the industry from within the DMS and CRM, as well as customer activity from chat and digital retailing activities. Combining all of this data into a Unified Intelligence Engine creates a holistic view of the dealership's customers, unlike any other. "We knew with Gubagoo and Reynolds we would build something historic for the industry by giving dealers the power to understand and activate their data through a truly connected data infrastructure. And now that we've seen the power of Curator, we know that dealers have unparalleled views of their customers they can take action on," says Aharon Horwitz, Fullpath CEO & Co-founder. By connecting the DMS, CRM, F&I, Chat, Digital Retailing tools, and more, Curator provides: Business insights Decisioning tools Multi-touch attribution metrics Data segmentation across sales and service Campaign management and audience best practices for marketing purposes Sales enablement Furthermore, Curator measures effectiveness by department, ad campaigns, as well as customer retention and reactivation; all while managing data hygiene, enrichment, appends, and ID resolutions. "Dealers have a huge opportunity in front of them, and we couldn't be more excited to help them take advantage of it with a Unified Intelligence Engine," said Brad Title, president of Gubagoo. "They have struggled for years with segmented data in disparate tools, and now with Curator, they can leverage all their information in a single place to dramatically increase efficiencies and truly wow customers." The groundbreaking Unified Intelligence Engine will launch at NADA 2025. About Fullpath Fullpath is the automotive industry's first enhanced Customer Data Platform (CDP). Fullpath unifies first-party dealership data and activates it by layering powerful AI and marketing automation on top to create a Customer Data and Experience Platform (CDXP). Dealerships that invest in the platform create exceptional, hyper-personalized customer experiences that drive loyalty and build resilient, lasting business. About Gubagoo Gubagoo is the leading provider of conversational commerce and retail solutions for both automotive dealerships and OEMs. More than 8,500 dealerships worldwide partner with Gubagoo, including 90% of the top dealer groups in North America. The company is a subsidiary of Reynolds and Reynolds, with offices in Dayton, Ohio, Houston, Texas, and operates in the US, Canada, Mexico, Europe, and Australia. (Gubagoo.com) SOURCE Fullpath Nicosia, Nov 17 : Cypriot authorities have relocated dozens of immigrants from the island's buffer zone to government-run refugee reception centres, ending their four-month standoff in makeshift tents under UN supervision. On Saturday, Nikolas Ioannidis, Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection, confirmed that nearly 70 immigrants from Somalia, Sudan, Congo, Syria, Iran, and Afghanistan were transferred to state facilities, Xinhua news agency reported. The decision followed agreements with third countries, which will accept an unspecified number of the migrants, Ioannidis told CyBC state broadcaster. Those not accepted by other nations will face deportation to their home countries, he added. The immigrants had entered the buffer zone in mid-June after being transported by human traffickers from the Turkish-controlled northern part of Cyprus. The buffer zone, separating the island's Greek and Turkish Cypriot parts, has been under the oversight of the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) since its establishment following a Turkish military operation against Cyprus in 1974. Initially, Cypriot authorities refused to allow the migrants into government-controlled territory, citing concerns that the buffer zone could become a corridor for irregular migration. During the over four-month standoff, the immigrants were housed in makeshift facilities provided by the UN. Both UNFICYP and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees had urged the Cypriot government to grant the migrants access to asylum procedures and international protection. Additionally, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) requested the Cypriot government provide the migrants with "effective access to asylum procedures and adequate reception conditions". Local media attributes the government's eventual decision to pressure from the ECHR. However, Ioannidis emphasised that the relocation aligns with Cyprus' migration policy. "Our position remains unchanged: the Green Line will not become a migrant route," he noted, stressing that "we will not legalise immigration through the buffer zone by accepting these people". by Balew Demissie The G20, which evolved from a meeting of finance ministers in 1999 to a summit of heads of state and government in 2008 in response to the international financial crisis, has become a key forum for international economic cooperation. Originally, the G20 focused on macroeconomic policy to prevent a global depression. Since then, the G20's agenda has expanded to encompass a broader spectrum of global challenges such as development, climate change, and global health. The theme of the 2024 summit is "Building a just world and a sustainable planet." Three main priorities have also been set for the agenda: promoting social inclusion and fighting hunger to address urgent humanitarian needs, advancing energy transition and sustainable development, and reforming global governance institutions to improve their effectiveness and inclusiveness. These priorities demonstrate the G20's commitment to promoting equitable growth and addressing the challenges facing the global community. In September 2023, the African Union (AU) became a full member of the G20, representing about 1.5 billion Africans and marking a significant recognition of Africa's potential as a unified economic and political force. African leaders have long been pushing for full membership of the G20, emphasizing the continent's economic and demographic importance, which is essential for promoting a more equitable global financial system and addressing critical challenges such as poverty, political instability and conflict, youth unemployment, infrastructure deficits, education crisis, as well as corruption and governance issues. The AU's accession to the G20 not only underlines Africa's importance in global affairs but also provides an opportunity to address its pressing issues such as poverty and development. China was the first country to explicitly express its support for the AU's membership of the G20. This is a significant step forward in global governance that underscores China's commitment to amplifying African voices at the international level. The support reflects China's role as an advocate for the Global South and recognizes the growing importance of Africa in global affairs. By advocating for the inclusion of the AU, China is setting a precedent for other major countries to follow, strengthening the AU's position in the G20. China consistently advocates for Africa at the United Nations and other international platforms, aims to promote a more equitable global governance system, and supports Africa's growing prominence on the world stage. By leveraging its diplomatic and economic partnerships, China is promoting the inclusion of African nations in discussions on industrialization and infrastructure development. The Belt and Road Initiative, for example, demonstrates China's commitment to investing in African infrastructure for shared growth. As a proponent of multilateralism, China champions the interests of developing countries and ensures that African perspectives shape global economic policy. The AU's entry into the G20 represents a significant achievement for multilateralism and ensures that the continent's voice is heard. This membership provides a platform for African nations to address critical global issues, correct historical marginalization in international dialogues, and bridge the gap between global politics and local realities. Through its participation, the AU can address challenges such as poverty, underdevelopment, and climate vulnerability while strengthening regional solidarity and increasing Africa's influence on global policy decisions. The AU is committed to promoting sustainable development in line with the African Union's Agenda 2063, which aims to position Africa as a global actor. At the upcoming G20 summit, the AU will play a crucial role in addressing the needs of the continent. The AU shall prioritize consistent participation, unify the economic positions of African policymakers to form a unified voice, and develop a clear agenda to reform the global financial architecture to meet Africa's estimated annual financing needs of 1.3 trillion U.S. dollars by 2030. Priorities include advocating for African financial inclusion, fostering partnerships, emphasizing youth and gender issues, promoting peace and security as well as debt relief through the G20 common framework, overcoming bureaucratic challenges, and engaging private creditors. It should also prioritize addressing conflicts, strengthening democracy, promoting industrialization, and increasing economic growth through initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area. It is also important to emphasize climate change mitigation by redirecting investments to green projects in line with the Paris Agreement and advocating for inclusive prosperity through digital transformation. Finally, the AU needs to navigate geopolitical tensions within African countries to promote cooperation and multilateralism. The AU shall actively participate in G20 decision-making to effectively represent African interests. It should also discuss the causes of conflicts and military coups in Africa as well as food insecurity exacerbated by climate change. The AU leadership should also advocate for the implementation of existing agreements and the promotion of a skilled workforce to foster sustainable development. Furthermore, the AU should advocate for foreign direct investment to be prioritized in the G20 agenda and call for a coordinated international investment policy to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. Given the demographic advantage of Africa's young population, the AU also seeks to engage with G20 countries on macroeconomic policies to ensure that African perspectives are included in discussions on global challenges and ultimately enhance Africa's role in shaping a sustainable global future. The AU's membership in the G20 significantly strengthens the representation of African nations in global governance. This inclusion gives their voices more weight in international discussions. Moreover, this inclusion promotes stronger multilateral cooperation among the Global South, enables collective advocacy for shared interests, and advances inclusive reforms in international institutions. The AU can emphasize critical development issues such as poverty alleviation and food security and align global agendas with the priorities of the Global South. In addition, the AU should advocate for collaborative approaches to address global challenges such as climate change, health security, food security, economic inequality, geopolitical tensions, migration and displacement, cybersecurity threats, water scarcity, biodiversity loss, and energy transition. The AU's entry into the G20 provides Africans with opportunities for capacity building and knowledge sharing with industrialized nations. By influencing global governance reforms and conflict resolution, the AU's participation in the G20 promotes global peace and stability, which are essential for sustainable development. Overall, the AU's presence strengthens Africa's role in global affairs by initiating far-reaching changes that benefit the Global South and promote a more equitable and sustainable global landscape. Editor's note: Balew Demissie is a communication and publication consultant at the Policy Studies Institute of Ethiopia. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Xinhua News Agency. Ramallah, Nov 17 : The Palestinian presidency has condemned a settler attack on Palestinian homes and the burning of vehicles in the town of Beit Furik, east of Nablus in the northern West Bank. Presidential spokesperson Nabil Abu Rudeineh on Saturday condemned the violence, describing it as acts of "terrorism" and urging for international response to stop Israeli "aggression on Gaza first". He added that Israel's ongoing "criminality and terrorism" and disregard for international law is driven by continuous US support through financial aid, weapons, and political backing, Xinhua news agency reported. He affirmed that the Palestinian people would remain "steadfast in the face of occupation and its crimes," standing firm on their land and holding onto their sacred sites and rights. He reiterated that continued violence and attacks would not bring security or stability to the region. On Saturday morning, Israeli settlers attacked homes in the town of Beit Furik, burning three vehicles and agricultural rooms, according to Palestinian sources. No Israeli comment has been issued regarding these incidents. The West Bank has been witnessing escalating tensions since October 7, 2023, which have resulted in the killing of more than 770 Palestinians by Israeli gunfire and airstrikes, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry. Beirut, Nov 17 : Three paramedics were killed and 11 others injured in Israeli raids on southern Lebanon, media reported. One paramedic was killed and seven others injured in an Israeli raid targeting the town of Borj Rahal in the Tyre district, whereas two paramedics from the Civil Defence were killed and four others wounded in an Israeli drone raid on the village of Kfar Tebnit, east of the city of Nabatieh, the Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA) reported on Saturday. According to Lebanese security sources, Israeli warplanes and drones on Saturday launched 12 raids on nine villages and towns across Lebanon, while Israeli artillery shelled seven Lebanese villages and towns, causing injuries. Supported by armoured vehicles, Israeli infantry forces on Saturday morning tried to infiltrate into Lebanon through the southern Lebanese border village of al-Dhahira and the axis of Tayr Harfa and Jibbain, where they were having violent clashes with Hezbollah fighters, according to the NNA. Meanwhile, Hezbollah said in separate statements that it targeted with missile barrages a gathering of Israeli forces in the Yara barracks near the border, the headquarters of the Golani Brigade north of the Israeli city of Acre, the Ramim barracks in northern Israel, and the Stella Maris naval base west of Haifa, Xinhua news agency reported. Since September 23, the Israeli army has levelled up its air attack on Lebanon in an escalation of conflict with Hezbollah. In early October, Israel initiated a ground operation across its northern border into Lebanon. According to statistics released by the Lebanese Health Ministry on Friday, the death toll from Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon since the onset of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in October last year had reached 3,445, with injuries up to 14,599. Mumbai, Nov 17 : Director Shyam Benegal has named his three favourite films. The director clarified that while these films may be very high in quality, their subject and intent were quite good. The director recently sat down for a chat with YouTuber Samdish Bhatia and discussed his favourite films. When Samdish asked him, "What would you say are your top three Indian films?", the director responded by saying, "'Aurat', I think, was one of them. Not necessarily the quality of the films. But the subject matter. Because, you know, they were highly melodramatic and overdone films. But there was a film called 'Roti'. That was another one." He further mentioned, "'Sant Tukaram'. Marvellous! Vishnupanth Paganesh, the chap who played Sant Tukaram. His Bhavgitra were excellent. You should render them beautifully." Shyam Benegal is often regarded as the pioneer of parallel cinema. He is widely considered one of the greatest filmmakers post-1970s. He has received several accolades, including 18 National Film Awards, and a Nandi Award. In 2005, he was honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India's highest award in the field of cinema. In 1976, he was honoured by the Indian government with the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian honour of the country, and in 1991, he was awarded Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian honour for his contributions in the field of arts. He received independent financing for 'Ankur' in 1973. It was a realistic drama of economic and sexual exploitation in his home state, Telangana. The film introduced actors Shabana Azmi and Anant Nag, and the director won the 1975 National Film Award for Second Best Feature Film. Shabana won the National Film Award for Best Actress. Lima, Nov 17 : South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol pledged nation's commitment to leading efforts to expand the use of carbon-free energy and foster inclusive growth among members of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). Yoon made the pledge during the APEC Informal Leaders' Retreat in Lima to address climate change and regional economic disparities and other pressing issues, Yonhap news agency reported. "South Korea will cooperate with APEC members to achieve their carbon neutrality goals in an economically viable manner through the Carbon-Free Energy Initiative," Yoon said, according to a summary provided by his office. Yoon detailed plans to lead technological collaboration and develop international standards for the hydrogen economy while highlighting South Korea's initiatives in advancing small modular reactors (SMRs) and establishing nuclear supply chains to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy. SMRs are ready-to-install modular reactors that are smaller in size and power output compared with traditional nuclear reactors, allowing for more flexible and scalable deployment. He also proposed creating an "APEC Future Prosperity Fund" to foster entrepreneurship, enhance economic opportunities for youths and encourage regional exchanges. As the incoming chair, Yoon asked for APEC members' support for South Korea's hosting of next year's summit in Gyeongju, located about 270 kilometres southeast of Seoul. Lima, Nov 17 : South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba underscored their shared commitment to bilateral cooperation during their talks on the margins of a multilateral summit in Peru, amid growing concerns over North Korean military threats. Yoon and Ishiba held their second in-person summit in a month on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in Lima amid rising concerns over North Korea's troop deployment to Russia in support of Moscow's protracted war in Ukraine, Yonhap news agency reported. "As military cooperation between Russia and North Korea has led to the North's troop deployment, regional and global situations have been rapidly changing since our first meeting," Yoon said in his opening remarks. "Today's meeting is more meaningful at a time when close coordination between South Korea and Japan is now more crucial than ever before," he added. Ishiba echoed Yoon's view, stressing the need for closer collaboration between the two nations. "Continuing to strengthen cooperation between Japan and South Korea is an important task considering the grave security situation surrounding both countries, including recent (developments) about North Korea," Ishiba said through a translator. The leaders agreed to deepen bilateral ties as the two countries prepare to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the normalisation of diplomatic ties next year. Their meeting came a day after a trilateral summit with US President Joe Biden, during which the leaders condemned military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang and reiterated their commitment to trilateral collaboration. New Delhi, Nov 17 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Abuja on Sunday, marking his first-ever visit to Nigeria as part of a three-nation tour that will also include stops in Brazil and Guyana. Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally welcomed PM Modi at Abuja airport, highlighting the importance of the visit to strengthen India-Nigeria ties. Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi thanked President Tinubu. "Landed a short while ago in Nigeria. Grateful for the warm welcome. May this visit deepen the bilateral friendship between our nations," PM Modi tweeted. PM Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the West African nation in 17 years. "I look forward to welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his first visit to Nigeria, which is also the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to our dear country since 2007. Our bilateral discussions will seek to expand the strategic partnership between both countries and enhance cooperation in critical sectors. Welcome to Nigeria, PM Modi @narendramodi," said Nigeria President Tinubu on Sunday. Invited by Nigeria President Tinubu, PM Modi was warmly received in Abuja by Minister for Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Ezenwo Wike. The Minister presented PM Modi with the Key to the City of Abuja, symbolising trust and honour from the Nigerian people, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). President Tinubu expressed his eagerness to welcome PM Modi, stating that their discussions aim to expand strategic partnerships and enhance cooperation in key sectors. "Welcome to Nigeria, Prime Minister Modi," Tinubu said in a post on X. PM Modi responded with gratitude, sharing images of his arrival and expressing hope for deepening bilateral friendship between India and Nigeria. The three-nation tour, scheduled from November 16 to 21, kicks off with Nigeria before PM Modi heads to Brazil to attend the G20 Leaders' Summit. The trip will conclude with a historic state visit to Guyana, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in more than 50 years. PM Modi earlier said, "At the invitation of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it will be my first visit to Nigeria, which is our close partner in the West African region. My visit will be an opportunity to build upon our Strategic Partnership that is based on shared belief in democracy and pluralism. I am also eagerly looking forward to meeting the Indian community and friends from Nigeria who have sent me warm welcome messages in Hindi." New Delhi, Nov 9 : Here is a guide to the week ahead. This is your forecast for November 11-17. Aries This week, focus on managing your money and how family influences your financial choices. You may start thinking about future financial security and potential investments. Honest and open conversations with relatives about money will be key. Your job and responsibilities will also take centre stage, affecting both your personal and work life. Be mindful of how you communicate this week. Misunderstandings could impact those close to you. Keeping a calm and professional attitude can help prevent conflicts. While money and material matters may dominate, donat forget to show care for loved ones. Singles could meet someone who shares their values, especially around family and finances. Donat rush; let things develop naturally. For those in relationships, financial discussions may strengthen your bond if handled calmly. Tip of the week: Manage funds wisely Taurus This week encourages you to take control of your life as the Sun boosts your desire to lead and make changes. Itas a time for self-reflection and considering how you want to be seen by others. You may feel motivated to change your lifestyle or appearance. The Sunas energy will brighten your social and work life, so seize the opportunity to pursue your passions. However, be mindful not to overdo it, as this could strain relationships with friends and family. This week, your career can flourish. Recognition for your achievements at work is likely, and job expectations may shift. Use this time to highlight your accomplishments and express your career goals to supervisors or colleagues. Take advantage of this momentum to advance, but remain humble to avoid upsetting coworkers. Job seekers can expect positive results if they actively pursue opportunities. Tip of the week: Take control of your life Gemini This week is all about self-reflection, closure, and inner growth. You may need to step back from the hustle and focus on personal development and emotions. Itas a great time to prioritise mental and emotional health. Avoid activities outside the home and take time to rest. Singles may feel the urge to spend time alone and avoid dating. Use this period to reflect on past experiences and clarify what you want in a partner. For those in relationships, this week is ideal for emotional closeness. Be patient with each other, as both may need space. This is also a good time for forgiveness and resolving past misunderstandings. Family matters may require attention, especially with elders. You might feel close to your family but need physical space to process emotions. Talk with your parents, especially your mother, for emotional support. Tip of the week: Prioritise mental health Cancer This week is a good time for teamwork, group projects, and reconnecting with people who share your goals. Think about your long-term plans and make sure they are realistic. Building strong connections can open new opportunities and provide support. This week could bring good news if you aim for a better position. Networking is important, so attend work events and stay in touch with contacts. For job seekers, job leads may come through friends. Keep an eye on your network for openings and recommendations. In love, shared experiences are highlighted. Singles may benefit from listening to friendsa dating stories and attending social events where they could meet someone with similar interests. Take your time with new connections. For those in relationships, this week is an excellent chance to set goals as a couple and plan activities together. Tip of the week: Make realistic plans Leo This week, focus on your responsibilities. Your actions will likely attract attention, especially from those in authority. Stay strategic and focus on the big picture rather than getting caught up in small details. Itas a great time to build your reputation and show hard work and discipline. Remember, consistency matters, and people will notice your reliability. Employees may have opportunities to take on leadership roles or manage key projects. Supervisors will notice your efforts, which could lead to rewards or promotions. Singles may be drawn to people who share similar ambitions and goals. Youare likely to connect with someone who understands your drive and vision. While your career may take priority, itas a good time to seek advice from your parents or an elder. Tip of the week: Focus on the big picture Virgo This is the perfect time to think about your future and long-term goals. The choices you make now can have lasting effects. You may reflect on your lifeas purpose and want to pursue something meaningful. Seek advice from mentors, teachers, or experienced individuals. This week brings opportunities for learning and growth at work. Employees might be given tasks that require new skills or collaboration with other teams. Consider volunteering for new responsibilities or joining training programs to expand your career options. Family discussions may focus on future plans. Seek advice from parents for a new perspective. Use this time to clear up any misunderstandings gently. Friends or siblings might suggest ideas for travel or learning that could change your outlook. Tip of the week: Seek advice from mentors Libra This week is about reflecting on your emotions and financial state. You may feel the need to address unresolved personal or financial issues. Itas a good time to pay off debts, return borrowed items, or review your investments. If youave felt stuck, now is the time to embrace change. Take it slow and avoid rushing into new activities without thoughtful consideration, which benefits your mental health. Job seekers may find networking opportunities in research, finance, or technology. Be open to stepping out of your comfort zone and taking on problem-solving or coordination roles. For those in relationships, this week is ideal for discussing finances, future goals, or unspoken emotions. Family matters, especially related to property or finances, may require your attention. Discussions about joint investments or inheritance should be approached calmly. Tip of the week: Address unresolved issues Scorpio This week, you may feel more social and motivated to resolve ongoing relationship conflicts. Itas a good time to reconnect with people you may have drifted apart from. Youall be able to see situations from othersa perspectives, which will help build stronger relationships. You might also feel inclined to make choices that affect others, so being polite and fair is key. Address unresolved issues to find solutions and strengthen bonds. Job seekers should use this time to connect and network within their field. Opportunities may arise through these interactions, so focus on roles that value teamwork. Show youare cooperative and ready to work well with others during interviews or discussions. Singles may be drawn to those who value order and balance. Building rapport with new people will be rewarding if you take your time and stay open. Use this time to clarify your expectations for a relationship. Tip of the week: Make new connections Sagittarius This week encourages commitment to daily tasks and responsibilities. Learn to prioritise and handle important issues. This is a great time to develop structure, build healthier habits, and set clear goals. Patience and following through with your plan will help you succeed.At work, focus on staying productive and organised. This week may bring added pressure due to tight deadlines or extra tasks. Managing these challenges effectively requires good organisation and avoiding procrastination. Your superiors will likely notice your hard work, possibly leading to rewards or promotions. Show your problem-solving skills and offer practical solutions when issues arise. Steer clear of office politics, focus on teamwork, and complete tasks on time.Family life may demand more of your attention this week. You might need to assist with household matters or support a family member. Tip of the week: Prioritise tasks Capricorn This is a great week for leisure, arts and crafts, and spending time with loved ones. You may feel a stronger urge to unwind and enjoy activities that bring you happiness. This is a chance to showcase your skills and gain recognition at work. You may even be assigned a leadership role in a project. Bringing new ideas to your workplace will be welcomed by colleagues and superiors. However, while embracing creativity, ensure you stay disciplined to meet deadlines. Singles may feel more open to exploring new connections and expressing emotions in love. This is a good time to meet new people and show confidence, but donat rush into anything serious. Focus on enjoying the moment and getting to know the other person. The Sun signals a renewed sense of passion for those in relationships. Spending quality time and doing fun activities together can strengthen your bond. Tip of the week: Unwind and enjoy Aquarius This week is ideal for resolving family issues or changing your home. Your mental and emotional well-being will be a priority, and small updates to your surroundings can help. Work may feel less productive as personal matters take up more attention. Balancing work and personal life may be challenging, so staying organised is key. Job seekers may need to pause and reflect before applying for new positions. Use this time to consider what you truly want in a job and whether it aligns with your goals. Look for roles with a good work-life balance or opportunities close to home. This is a good week to think about what you want in a partner and how a relationship can bring you happiness. If you meet someone new, the relationship may develop slowly but steadily. Tip of the week: Balance work and pleasure Pisces The organisation will help you manage increased social and mental activity this week. Students may have multiple tasks or obligations, making good organisation essential. Itas a great time for connecting with others and attending meetings, conferences, or short trips. These interactions will be significant, so approach them with clarity and confidence. Job seekers will benefit from networking and improving communication skills. This is an excellent time for job searching, interviews, and meeting others in your field. Business opportunities may come from conversations, so follow up on leads. Jobs in communication, media, sales, and education are especially favourable now. For those in relationships, this week is ideal for meaningful communication. Discuss projects, exchange ideas, and clear misunderstandings to strengthen your bond. Tip of the week: Look for a new job (Neeraj Dhankher is an astrologer proficient in Vedic, KP, and Nadi astrology. He is the Founder and CEO of Astro Zindagi. The observations are made by the writer based on his analysis) New Delhi, Nov 17 : The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken serious note of a fire that broke out in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Maharani Laxmibai Medical College, Jhansi, claiming the lives of 10 newborns. NHRC has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and DGP, requesting a report on the negligence within a week. The NHRC has deemed the incident a "grave violation" of human rights and issued notices to the Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary and Director General of Police directing them to submit a detailed report within a week. In a statement released on Saturday, the commission described the reports of the tragedy as "disturbing" and indicative of negligence by the hospital authorities. It observed that the victims were under the care of a government institution, which failed to ensure their safety. Preliminary investigations suggest that an electrical short circuit may have triggered the fire late Friday night, engulfing the NICU where 54 infants were admitted at the time. The commission has emphasised the critical need for accountability and detailed clarity on the circumstances leading to the disaster. It has asked the state government to include in its report steps taken to ensure justice for the victims and measures adopted to prevent such tragedies in the future. Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday instructed senior officials, including the Divisional Commissioner and Deputy Inspector General of Police in Jhansi, to submit a preliminary report on the incident. UP Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, accompanied by Principal Secretary, Health, Partha Sarthi Sen Sharma, visited the site on Saturday to oversee rescue operations and assess the damage. Earlier on Saturday, the hospital officials reported that while 45 infants were rescued, 16 remain in critical condition. Tunis, Nov 17 : The Tunisian National Guard announced that it had arrested six people for drug trafficking in the northern province of Ariana. According to a statement posted on the National Guard's Facebook page, 170 drug tablets and a quantity of Indian cannabis, along with some cash, were seized during the operation, Xinhua news agency reported. The statement did not provide further details on the timing of the operation. After consultations with the public prosecutor, appropriate legal actions will be taken against those arrested people, said the statement. New Delhi: The October 18 order of the Supreme Court on child marriage and the arguments it heard on October 21 in the case about the legal validity of the so-called 'marital rape', are both significant so far as they pertained to a possible intervention of judiciary in matters that weighed in individual's rights against the mandate set by socio-cultural outlook and customs. A three-judge bench headed by the then Chief Justice of India D. Y. Chandrachud, filled a loophole in the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA), 2006, when it declared on October 18 that child 'betrothals' used as a clever ploy to duck punishment under the Act, violated basic rights of 'free choice, autonomy and childhood' and urged the Parliament to outlaw them. Showing a deep understanding of the nature of this social malaise the apex court placed emphasis on 'prevention', saying that 'prosecution' alone was ineffective in bringing about a social change. It pointed out that PCMA was a social legislation which needed the collective efforts of all stakeholders for its success. The Centre had moved the PCM (Amendment) Bill in December 2021, seeking precedence of the Act over personal laws which was pending with the concerned Standing Committee of Parliament. The Supreme Court taking note of this, declined to extend the child marriage ban to all faiths leaving it to Parliament to legislate on it but as already mentioned, did recommend prohibition on child betrothals that were favoured by some communities in the name of protecting the girl child. This practice somewhere reflected in the innate thinking in society about considering a girl as a 'burden' to be passed on to someone else through marriage. Even with the advancement of society towards acceptance of a 'small family' and realisation of the importance of 'education for all', the average family still fell for the social malady of following a differential between a boy and a girl when it came to spending its resources on their upbringing. If child marriage is indefensible from all angles then the apex court was expected to ban it for all communities; it seems however, that the Supreme Court did not want a judicial diktat to settle a socio-political problem and favoured an evolution of law in this regard through the Parliamentary process, as would befit a democratic dispensation. The Supreme Court judgement is remarkable for the reason that it puts judiciary and the society on the same side of the fence in prescribing a multifaceted approach to deal with a social ill that had continued to affect millions of young girls and boys despite the presence of a law -- PCMA 2006, criminalising child marriage. The ruling calls for stronger enforcement and enhanced accountability. Significantly, it recognises that both girls and boys suffered because of child marriage: girls faced physical and emotional abuse while boys were exposed to new pressures and responsibilities that altered their entire course of life. The Supreme Court ordered the appointment of dedicated Child Marriage Prevention Officers (CMPOs) across the districts to focus on the prevention of child marriages and also specially empowered District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police to prosecute individuals who facilitated or promoted such marriages. On the whole, the Supreme Court admirably underlined the need for a shift in social attitudes on child marriage while endorsing stringent legal measures against the malady. Another matter of deep cultural significance being currently examined by the Supreme Court is the exception in Section 375 sub-clause (2) of IPC repeated in Section 63 (2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Samhita (BNS) enacted in December 2023, according to which, non-consensual intercourse by a husband with his wife, provided she was not less than 15 years as mentioned in IPC and revised to 18 years in BNS, was excluded from the definition of rape. A three-judge divisional bench headed by Chief Justice Chandrachud began the hearing of petitions against the exception, termed by the petitioners as 'marital rape', on October 17. The petitioners sought criminalisation of marital rape whereas the Centre has taken the stand that punishment of non-consensual sex in wedlock will impact conjugal relationships and lead to 'serious disturbances' in the institution of marriage. There was also a concern that there might be misuse of the provision of consent as it would be difficult for the husband to prove it. The Supreme Court held the last hearing on October 22 to examine the constitutional validity of a law that granted immunity from prosecution to a husband who forced his wife, not a minor, to have sex with him. On October 23, the court adjourned the case by four weeks as Chief Justice Chandrachud was retiring on November 10, compelling a reconstitution of the Bench. This case illustrates the legal and social nuances that the Supreme Court went into by way of raising questions that were truly instructive. The court asked if domestic violence including wrongful confinement and cruelty preceding the forced consent was punishable, then how could the act of sex in that situation be exempted from legal liability? The Chief Justice wondered if making this kind of sex act a punishable offence would not amount to creating a new penal provision by the judiciary that was not under its purview. In the Indian context, the pre-intercourse aggressiveness and even violence are not uncommon. It is also possible that a certain kind of submissiveness on the part of the wife, traceable to gender inequality, existed across many sections of society. The spread of education and financial independence still eluded many Indian women. Cultural legacies governed the institution of marriage in India and what prevailed generally in the economically developed societies of the West was not necessarily an ideal comparison. Also, it can be presumed that wherever 'marital rape' was reported as an offence it would certainly result consequentially in a divorce. In the case before the Supreme Court, one of the petitioners pleaded that exception to marital rape violated the right to equality and privacy while another linked the exception to the tradition of 'patriarchy' that was against the ethos of the Constitution. The Centre's stand seemed to accommodate the Indian cultural tradition in the modern approach to marriage. In its petition the Centre made out that the idea of consent had to be viewed differently in marriage since there was 'an expectation of reasonable sexual access from one's spouse' and this made it 'excessive and disproportionate' to punish a husband under anti-rape laws. The government at the same time firmly declared that there was no compromise with criminality associated with domestic violence and cruelty. This case before the Supreme Court, like the one pertaining to child marriage, is testing the merit of judicial intervention in matters that were on the borderline of customs and cultural tradition on one hand, and the modern law on the other. It is to be seen if as in the other case, Supreme Court adopts a reformative approach in interpreting the Penal Code on the issue of marital rape too. (The writer is former Director of the Intelligence Bureau. Views are personal) LUANDA, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- Angola reported the first Mpox case nationwide in the capital city of Luanda, the Ministry of Health announced Saturday evening. According to the ministry's statement, the patient, a 28-year-old woman "of Congolese nationality," is in isolation with her close contacts under the health authorities' vigilance. The ministry said it is implementing measures to disinfect affected areas, identify and trace contacts, and conduct a thorough epidemiological investigation. The Angolan authorities urge the public to reinforce hygiene practices and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pain, joint pain, lymphadenopathy, or widespread skin rashes or mucosal lesions. Authorities have also reaffirmed their commitment to keeping the public informed about the epidemiological situation and have called for calm and composure within the community. Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, was first identified in laboratory monkeys in 1958. It is an infectious disease primarily spread through body fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated materials. In August, the World Health Organization declared Mpox a public health emergency of international concern, marking its highest level of alert for the second time in two years. Chennai, Nov 17 : The ruling DMK leadership is gearing up for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, with the party's state leadership seeking periodic reports from the in-charges of constituencies. A high-level executive meeting, chaired by party president and Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, is scheduled for November 20 at 10.30 a.m. at the DMK headquarters, 'Anna Arivalayam', to discuss election preparations. The DMK has already appointed full-time workers for all 234 Assembly constituencies in the state. Half of these full-timers were selected based on their performance during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, where the DMK-led INDIA bloc achieved a landslide victory by securing all 39 seats in Tamil Nadu and the lone seat in Puducherry. Each full-timer has been chosen after screening and consultation with the local leadership. Interestingly, these appointees are not residents of the constituencies they oversee, ensuring impartiality and focus, the party leaders have said. These constituency in-charges are required to submit weekly reports to the state party headquarters, detailing progress and identifying strengths and weaknesses in their respective areas. To enhance coordination, the DMK has also appointed ministers in charge of each district. These ministers will work closely with the full-timers to monitor constituency performance and ensure the effective implementation of the state government's schemes and programmes. The Chief Minister's office is actively monitoring the Ministers' performance. CM Stalin has expressed confidence that the DMK will secure 200 of the 234 Assembly seats in the 2026 elections. Currently holding 133 seats, the DMK is working towards this ambitious target. A core team of DMK leaders, including Youth Wing leader and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, state Ministers Thangam Thenarasu and E.V. Velu, and party organising secretary R.S. Bharathi, have been assigned to oversee the election strategy. Udhayanidhi Stalin is managing day-to-day operations. During a recent high-profile meeting at Anna Arivalayam, Udhayanidhi criticized certain party leaders for underperforming in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections despite being given specific responsibilities. R.S. Bharathi, DMK organising secretary and a senior member of the core committee tasked with candidate selection for the 2026 elections, has stated: "Our leader and Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru M.K. Stalin, has already set a target of winning 200 Assembly seats in the 2026 elections. The party's organisational machinery is fully activated to achieve this goal." He said the senior leaders, including Udhayanidhi Stalin, are working tirelessly to ensure the party's preparedness for the elections. Tunis, Nov 17 : Tunisian President Kais Saied received visiting Saudi Arabia's Minister of Investment Khalid Al-Falih, said a statement released by the presidency. During the meeting on Saturday, the President praised the strength of the relations and deep-rooted cultural ties that unite Tunisia and Saudi Arabia, Xinhua news agency reported. According to Saied, Tunisia is working to promulgate new legislation to facilitate investment procedures and pave the way for Tunisian and foreign investors. He stressed that Tunisia encourages investors to launch projects in a healthy and favourable environment that protects both their rights and those of Tunisia. "Tunisia has become qualified for fierce global competition to attract investments in several sectors, including renewable energy, hydrogen, logistics investments, real estate development, and tourism," said the Saudi minister in a press conference held after the meeting. Al-Falih stressed that Saudi investors are ready to enter into these areas at the right time. "We are optimistic about the political and economic stability and development that Tunisia has achieved," added the Saudi minister. New Delhi, Nov 17 : Legendary Australia fast-bowler Glenn McGrath has urged the Pat Cummins-led side to put pressure on an emotional Virat Kohli during the upcoming five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, starting in Perth from November 22. The talismanic Kohli averages just 22.72 in his six Test matches this year, way short than his average of 54.08 in Tests in Australia. Kohli comes into the Australia tour after making just 91 runs in Indiaas unprecedented 3-0 series defeat at home to New Zealand earlier this month. With Shubman Gill all set to miss first Test due to a fractured thumb, pressure would be more on Kohli to get big runs for India on a bouncy and pacy Perth pitch. "If they go hard at him, if he gets in the fight with emotions, thereas a bit of chat out there, who knows he might sort of lift. But I think heas probably under pressure a little bit, and if he has a couple of low scores to start with, he could really feel it. I think heas quite an emotional player. When heas up, heas up, and when heas down, he sort of struggles a little bit," McGrath was quoted as saying by CODE Sports. He also feels Australia needs to up their aggression if they are to stop India from making a hat-trick of Test series wins Down Under. "Without a doubt, especially after coming off a 3-0 loss against New Zealand, youave got plenty of ammunition to back yourself up. So put the pressure on them and see if theyare up for it," added McGrath, who took 563 Test wickets at an average of just 21.64. Following the series opener at Perth, India and Australia will play the remaining four Test matches in Adelaide (pink-ball match), Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. It will also be the first five-match Test series between India and Australia since the 1991/92 season. Darwin : , Nov 17 (IANS) Australia, Japan, and the United States on Sunday reaffirmed their commitment to support India's maritime surveillance efforts in the Indo-Pacific region while recognising the importance of closer collaboration in the field. Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles, Japanese Defence Minister Nakatani Gen, and US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin III convened the fourteenth Trilateral Defence Ministers' Meeting (TDMM) on Sunday in Darwin, Australia. "We commit to enhancing Australia-Japan-India-United States maritime domain awareness in the Indo-Pacific from 2025, acknowledging India's leadership role in conceptualizing the idea of closer collaboration in maritime surveillance," a joint statement issued after the meeting stated. India's maritime surveillance in the Indo-Pacific region focuses on bolstering its naval and maritime security while developing a comprehensive Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) framework. The trilateral leaders also expressed satisfaction over recent joint initiatives, stating, "We welcome the success of our maritime patrol aircraft collaboration activity with India on the sidelines of Exercise KAKADU in September 2024." Earlier in September, the Wilmington Declaration -- released following the Quad leaders' meeting involving Prime Minister Narendra Modi, then US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Delaware -- highlighted India's leadership in finalising the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (IOIP). The Quad expressed its support for the implementation of this framework. The Quad, comprising the US, Japan, India, and Australia, has committed to implementing the 'Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific' (MAITRI) to enhance monitoring, law enforcement, and deterrence of unlawful activities in the region. In addition to maritime security, the Quad launched a 'Quad Cancer Moonshot' initiative focused on combating cervical cancer in the Indo-Pacific, aiming to reduce the number of lives lost to the disease. Another initiative, the 'Quad Ports of the Future Partnership,' was announced to support sustainable and resilient port infrastructure development across the Indo-Pacific region. The Quad had also raised concerns over coercive actions in the South China Sea and had emphasised the importance of adhering to international laws, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), to uphold the global maritime rules-based order. The statement noted, "We are united in commitment to upholding a stable and open international system, with strong support for human rights, freedom, the rule of law, democratic values, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, and the peaceful settlement of disputes without the threat or use of force in accordance with international law, including the UN Charter." Meanwhile, the joint statement from the trilateral defence meeting of Australia, Japan, and the US reiterated their consistent and unwavering support for ASEAN centrality and unity. The leaders also expressed anticipation for a successful ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Lao PDR this week. The statement further emphasised collaboration with partners such as Canada, France, Germany, India, New Zealand, South Korea, and the United Kingdom to enhance engagement with Southeast Asian nations and address regional security priorities. New York, Nov 17 : Counterintelligence expert Kash Patel, who is close to US President-Elect Donald Trump, is reportedly under consideration for appointment to head the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) after having been passed over for the leadership of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). If he gets the job, he will likely be the highest-ranking Indian American in the administration even though it is not a Cabinet post and no names from the community have emerged as of Saturday for the remaining Cabinet-level jobs. Media reports say that several Trump loyalists are pushing the appointment of Patel, who has called for "drastic measures" to reshape the FBI. Patel had close ties with Trump who considered him one of his policy specialists, and they both share the view that Trump had won the 2020 election but was unlawfully deprived of the presidency and that there should be retribution for those they consider responsible. During his campaign, Trump endorsed Patel's proposals to reshape government in his book, 'Government of Gangsters', a title that reflects both their views that a cabal of "Deep State" operatives was running the country behind the scenes. Patel had served as the Deputy Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Counterterrorism (CT) at the National Security Council (NSC), before becoming the chief of staff to the then Acting Secretary of Defence Christopher Miller, his final job in the first Trump administration. His appointment to head the FBI, the powerful domestic intelligence service, is by no means certain as there are others in the running and opposition to him from the more establishment types in the Republican party and government. Nearing the end of his first term, Trump had sought to appoint Patel as the deputy director of the CIA, but was foiled by opposition from the then-head, Gina Haspel. The then-Attorney General William Barr also shot down a proposal to appoint him as the Deputy Director of the FBI. Christopher Wray, who Trump appointed to a ten-year term as the FBI Director in 2017 and who was retained by President Joe Biden, will have to be fired or voluntarily resign for Trump to nominate a new head. The job required confirmation by the Senate. Patel started off as a public defender the government-paid lawyer for poor defendants and made his jump to the prosecution side as a trial attorney for the Justice Department's National Security Division which handles terrorism-related cases, and as the liaison to the military's Joint Special Operations Command. According to a Defence Department biography, Patel worked with the command "to conduct collaborative global targeting operations against high-value terrorism targets" and oversaw the elimination of Islamic State terror group's and al-Qaeda's leaders. That helped him build his expertise on terrorism and led to his next career move as the national security advisor to the House of Representatives Intelligence Committee. His work there to unravel the claims of Russia's interference in the 2016 election on behalf of Trump, and on the FBI's questionable wiretaps of Trump's campaign staff drew the attention of the White House and Trump's allies. He joined the White House as the Senior Director for Counterterrorism in the National Security Council with also the rank of Deputy Special Assistant to the President. Trump expanded it, placing Patel among his "top Ukraine policy specialists." Politico reported that according to former White House sources Patel had direct access to Trump, to the chagrin of other officials. He rapidly rose to become a principal deputy to Richard Grenell, the acting director of national intelligence, with his next stop at the Defence Department. Patel, who uses an abbreviated version of his first name Kashyap, is the son of Gujaratis who came to the US from East Africa, and in his book, he speaks of a deep connection to India. Patel's view of the government establishment, like Trump's, is coloured deeply by distrust and suspicions that it has its own agenda and is loyal to external forces. He was a firm believer that Trump had won the 2020 election and supported Trump's calls for retribution. He said in a podcast interview, "We will go out and find the conspirators not just in government, but in the media" responsible for what he asserted was rigging the election. About the FBI, he wrote in his book that it "has become so thoroughly compromised that it will remain a threat to the people unless drastic measures are taken." Damascus, Nov 17 : Iran's Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh arrived in Syria to strengthen defence and security ties between the two countries, according to Syria's Al-Watan online newspaper. "Everyone knows the important position of the Syrian Arab Republic in Iranian foreign policy," Nasirzadeh told reporters upon his arrival, Xinhua news agency reported. "We came to Damascus based on an invitation from the Syrian Defence Minister, and we will have meetings with political and military officials to discuss several common issues between the two countries, especially in the field of defence and security, aiming to expand cooperation and exchange expertise between the two sides," he was quoted as saying by Al-Watan. Nasirzadeh praised Syria's experience in combating terrorism and its role in the regional "axis of resistance," an anti-Israel bloc, which also includes Iran, Hezbollah, Hamas, and militant groups in Iraq and Syria, among others. "Syria has an ancient history and deep experience in combating terrorism, and it is a key supporter in the axis of resistance," he said, stressing that "we are ready to provide all means of support to this friendly state." The Iranian minister's visit comes amid intensified Israeli attacks on Syria's military sites and pro-Iran assets. New Delhi, Nov 17 : Lack of specific skills and talents has been found to be the biggest obstacle for pharmaceutical companies in their digital transformation journey, according to a new report. Large and medium-sized companies see a lack of specific skills and talents as more of a concern than smaller ones, according to a report by GlobalData. The rapid pace of technological advancement has outstripped the ability of traditional training programs to keep up, creating a significant skills gap. Without the necessary expertise, companies may struggle to integrate new systems, leading to stalled initiatives. "Shortage of talents that have specific digital skills continues to be a pressing issue for pharmaceutical companies that first experienced digital skills scarcity shortly after the arrival of COVID-19," said Urte Jakimaviciute, Senior Director of Market Research and Strategic Intelligence at GlobalData. Despite the growing demand for tech-savvy specialists, there is a limited supply of individuals possessing necessary expertise, and there is no quick solution for this, Jakimaviciute added. Larger corporations may have a wider scale of operations or a higher number of systems to digitalise, which requires more human resources to complete the process. As such, the absence of skills may make them unable to fully leverage the technologies that they invest in for digital transformation, said Jakimaviciute. According to the report, while the labour market has been heated up by the race for recruiting talents, large enterprises, which demand a higher number of employees and tend to have a more global presence, may struggle more to deal with tech-savvy workforce constraints. On the other hand, small companies may prioritize rapid innovation over very specialised roles and also often outsource more to access very specialised skills, it added. The ongoing advancements in technologies also mean that skills can become easily outdated, making it critical for companies to continuously invest in talent acquisition and upskilling. New Delhi, Nov 17 : India saw 11.9 per cent increase in deal volume (year-on-year) in the January-October period, bucking the overall trend in the Asia-Pacific region, a new report has said. On the other hand, China experienced YoY decline in deal volume by 22.9 per cent during the period, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company. A total of 11,808 deals (mergers and acquisitions, private equity and venture financing deals) were announced in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region during January to October 2024, which was a year-on-year (YoY) decline of 4.8 per cent, compared to the 12,406 deals announced during the same period in 2023. An analysis revealed that during January-October, the number of private equity and venture financing deals declined by 16.3 per cent and 10 per cent, respectively. Meanwhile, the M&A deals volume experienced a marginal YoY improvement during the review period. According to Aurojyoti Bose, lead analyst at GlobalData, the decline in deal activity in APAC was in line with the global trend wherein all the regions experienced fall in deal volume. However, the APAC region showcased relatively better performance and experienced only single digit decline whereas most of the other regions experienced double-digit declines, Bose mentioned. "This could be attributed to the improvement in deal activity experienced in some of the APAC countries, like India," the report said, adding that this has helped in minimising the impact of decline experienced in other countries within the region. Meanwhile, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Indonesia experienced YoY decline in deal volume by 17.6 per cent, 14.4 per cent, 13.9 per cent and 33 per cent, respectively, during the review period. According to another report that came out in October, the mergers and acquisitions deal activity in value in India surged 66 per cent in the first nine months this year, outpacing 10 per cent growth globally and 5 per cent decrease in the Asia-Pacific region overall. The M&A activity in India has been strong in 2024, bucking the trend in the other Asia-Pacific markets, according to a global report from Boston Consulting Group (BCG). "This highlights India's unique resilience and appeal. Sectors like technology, media, industrials and healthcare have been key drivers of large deals, capitalising on the 'Make in India' initiative," said Dhruv Shah, Managing Director and Partner, BCG. Los Angeles, Nov 17 : Hollywood star Denzel Washington has agreed that his filmography isn't too perfect. The 69-year-old actor discussed his career ahead of the release of 'Gladiator II'. The actor noted that not all of his movies were hits, reports 'People' magazine, He told 'The Sunday Times', "After 'Malcolm X', I made some real clunkers. Look them up, I won't say their names. They are all in the 1990s. But I was earning. I had responsibilities". As per 'People', some films the two-time Oscar winner starred in during that decade included 'Much Ado About Nothing', 'The Pelican Brief', 'Virtuosity', 'Crimson Tide', 'Devil in a Blue Dress', 'The Preacher's Wife', 'Fallen', 'He Got Game' and 'The Bone Collector', among other movies. However, he said that his films in the 2000s, which included Remember the Titans and Training Day, fared a lot better. He also noted that it all corresponded to a quote he lived by: "In life, you learn, earn and then you return as in give back." "So in that era I was earning," he explained. "With a great agent, my career built into making money and so the earning kicked in and then life also kicked in, with bills, four kids and a house". The 'Equalizer' actor also revealed that he is "guilty" of not watching his films the whole way through, similar to Judi Dench. He admitted that he does "watch" some parts of the films "so I know what I'm talking about," but leaves the rest unfinished. "I haven't watched any film from my past from start to finish, not even Malcolm X", Washington said. "All you see is what you did wrong. Also why would you do it anyway?" Earlier this week, the actor shared that his acting career has taken a new focus now that he's growing older and that he is "only interested in working with the best moving forward". PORT SUDAN, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- "We have survived, but many members of our families still remain behind," said Razan Ahmed Idris, a woman in her twenties, as she recounted her escape from war zone following her arrival at a shelter center in the Al-Makabrab area of River Nile State in northern Sudan, along with thousands of others displaced from central Gezira State. "On the morning of November 8, a force of more than 40 four-wheel drive vehicles from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia attacked our village, opening fire indiscriminately," said Idris, a displaced nurse from Al-Eidj village on the eastern bank of the Blue Nile River. "We were exposed to a brutal attack, and the militia perpetrated horrific violations against us. Many people from the village are missing, and every family has lost at least one loved one. It is a human tragedy," she said, her eyes filled with tears. "We live here in fear and anxiety, expecting bad news at any moment," she added. Idris said that families from about 10 other villages have also been displaced after experiencing similar assaults and violations. "It was a tough and exhausting displacement journey. We traveled on foot for five days, with the majority being women, children, and elderly," she said. During the escape journey, she said she had provided medical assistance to many suffering from severe bacterial infections. "During the journey, we lacked medical supplies and had to depend on traditional remedies, including a homemade glucose solution made from sugar and salt," she noted. Abdullah Suleiman, a man also displaced from Gezira, recounted carrying his 80-year-old disabled mother for 30 km during the escape, while his five children walked beside him. "Even the elderly received no consideration from the militia," he said. "What happened was a deliberate act," 62-year-old Abdullah Nour El-Din told Xinhua. Nour El-Din, whose 15-year-old child is currently missing, was from eastern Gezira. "In our village, water sources, including wells, were poisoned, and we were even prevented from drinking from the Nile River. We had no choice but to leave or die from thirst," he said. Currently, nearly 10,000 displaced individuals from eastern Gezira are taking refuge at the shelter center in Al-Makabrab, located about 18 km south of Al-Damar, the capital of River Nile State. Local authorities and volunteers are working to provide food for the displaced, with community kitchens, known as Takaya, serving meals of lentils and rice. The Sudanese Family Planning Association, a voluntary medical organization, has set up mobile clinics to offer medical care to the displaced, but these clinics are struggling to meet the overwhelming demand for assistance. There are no official figures on the number of deaths or injuries among the displaced from eastern Gezira, but local volunteers report that over one million people have been displaced from more than 500 villages. On Friday, the International Organization for Migration said in a press release that more than 343,000 Sudanese have been displaced across Gezira in less than a month. Sudan has been engulfed in a devastating conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF since mid-April 2023. The deadly conflict has resulted in over 24,850 deaths and displaced more than 14 million people, according to estimates by international organizations. New Delhi, Nov 17 : A 2-judge Bench of the Supreme Court has sought an explanation from the apex court registry as to how a counter affidavit from a non-party could be accepted. In its order, a bench headed by Justice Bela M. Trivedi noted that impleadment application of the proposed respondent-complainant was never allowed by the court but a counter affidavit filed on his behalf has been placed on record. "It appears that the application (IA No. 161791/2024) seeking impleadment of the said proposed respondent has not been allowed by the Court. Registry is directed to explain as to how, such counter affidavit from the proposed respondent-complainant, who is not a party, could be accepted," said the Bench, also comprising Justice S.C. Sharma. Allowing time for the counsel appearing on behalf of the state of Punjab to get instructions on the latest status of the investigation, the apex court posted the matter for hearing after two weeks. Interim order to continue till the next date of hearing, it added. A vacation bench of the Supreme Court, in June this year, ordered that the petitioner will not be arrested in connection with FIR No. 07/2024 registered at P.S. Tarsikka, District Amritsar Rural, Punjab till the next date of hearing. Before this, the Punjab and Haryana High Court had rejected the anticipatory bail plea of the petitioner considering the nature and gravity of the offence. After perusing the record, it had said, "The present case was registered on the statement of the complainant with the allegation that the petitioner along with co-accused, while being armed with 'datar', had inflicted multiple injuries on the person of the complainant, out of which injury No.1 was found to be grievous in nature. Though the said injury was not on the vital part of the body, yet it is grievous in nature and recovery of weapon of offence is yet to be effected from the petitioner for which his custodial interrogation is required." Chennai, Nov 17 : Heavy police deployment was made in Chinna Udaippa village in Tamil Nadu's Madurai district where the local people are protesting against the airport expansion project. More than one thousand police personnel have been deployed in the area to maintain law and order situation in the area. Protesters are seeking three cents of land and a house in exchange for their land to be taken away for the Madurai airport expansion project. It may be noted that officials will be reaching Chinna Udaippa village for the land acquisition programme. The Madurai airport, located on 502.25 acres, is acquiring 633.17 additional acres. "543.64 acres have already been handed over for further expansion," said officials. Madurai Collector M.S. Sangeetha has given administrative sanction for land acquisition to lay a road alternative to the one stalling the construction of a compound wall around the acquired land. The airport has built a compound wall of 12.36 km on the newly acquired land. Though the Madurai airport got a new terminal building in 2010 and international flights are being operated to Singapore, Dubai, and Colombo, the airport is yet to get international status. The airport handled 14 lakh passengers during 2023-24 and the 24x7 operation became a reality on October 1. AAI Chairman M. Suresh says the number of flights taking off from the Madurai airport will increase manifold in the next six months. Virudhunagar MP B. Manickam Tagore told IANS that it may take more time for the airport to get international status, but it will have more domestic flights. Manickam Tagore said, "We expect flights to connect Madurai with Varanasi and Pune very soon." Madurai already has air connectivity to Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. The airport has reconfigured the terminal building to handle the increasing number of passengers. According to senior officials of the Madurai airport, these measures will help in the swift clearance of passengers and reduce their waiting time in queues. Officials said that while presently the terminal building and the runway are good enough to handle the present traffic of the airport, the passenger-handling capacity of the airport will get saturated as more services come to Madurai. Airport officials told IANS that the expansion of the airport is the only solution to overcome this saturation and hence land acquisition is necessary. Shillong, Nov 17 : The hunger strike by students of North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), the northeast's oldest Central varsity here, entered its 13th day on Sunday as the agitating students stood firm on their demand to remove "incompetent" and "illegally" appointed officials. The students are demanding the removal of Vice Chancellor Prabha Shankar Shukla and four other top officials, including Registrar Col Omkar Singh (Retd) and Deputy Registrar Amit Gupta. After the VC went on leave till November 29, the acting VC Prof Nirmalendu Saha, has urged the striking students to withdraw their indefinite hunger strike, which has been spearheaded by the North Eastern Hill University Students Union (NEHUSU) since November 5. The influential Mawlai Town Dorbar (MTD), a traditional societal body under which the NEHU campus falls, has declared that VC Shukla would not be allowed to re-enter the university campus. After meeting the agitating students at the NEHU campus, MTD President Herlambok War said that VC Shukla must be removed from his position at all costs. "We do not want the Vice Chancellor to come to NEHU campus after his leave is over. We want to avoid further problems at the varsity. The students' ongoing agitation, which could harm their health, should not continue because of the incumbent VC," War told the media. NEHUSU General Secretary Toniho S. Kharsati said that they would consider the MTD's appeal to call off their indefinite hunger strike and explore alternative forms of protest. "We would soon convene the union's meeting at the earliest to review and decide on the next course of action," Kharsati told the media. Earlier Meghalaya Governor and the NEHU's Chief Rector Chandrashekhar H. Vijayashankar, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, and state's Education Minister Rakkam A. Sangma appealed to the agitating students to call off their protest. The Education Minister reaffirmed that the state government and the Centre are committed to the welfare of the students. Meghalaya Chief Minister earlier said that he briefed the Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on the ongoing situation in NEHU and urged him to find an amicable solution to this issue. The NEHU students also wrote a letter to President Droupadi Murmu detailing the situation in the varsity and sought her intervention to resolve the ongoing imbroglio. Before going on leave last week, VC Shukla on a number of occasions, urged the students to call off their agitation and hold talks so that normal academic activities could be resumed in the university. Shukla also assured the agitating students of the formation of an inquiry committee to study the demand for the removal of the Registrar and Deputy Registrar. NEHUSU General Secretary Toniho S. Kharsati told the media that they are not happy with the clarification of the VC about their demands. He also said they would continue with their agitation until and unless their demands were accepted by the authorities. Kharsati claimed that due to the incompetence of all top varsity officials, the NEHU's rank has slipped 21 points to 101 in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) ranking. He said that the students demanded that all "incompetent" top officials along with those "illegally" appointed must be removed for the interest of the students and the varsity. "Since the incumbent VC took charge of the University in 2021, no important academic development has taken place, and instead rankings of the important institution have been going down. Incompetent people were appointed in the top position," he said. The influential North East Students' Organisation (NESO), an apex body of eight students' organisations representing seven NE states, Khasi Students Union's NEHU unit and the Meghalaya Tribal Teachers' Association are also supporting the protest. Imphal, Nov 17 : The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), an apex body of the Meitei community, has given a 24-hour ultimatum to the Centre and the state government of 24 hours to take "decisive action" against armed groups or face public anger, as violent protests continued in the Valley districts and the houses of several ministers and MLAs were attacked by mobs. COCOMI Spokesperson Khuraijam Athouba urged all the 50 MLAs (excluding 10 tribal legislators), comprising ruling and opposition parties to sit together and take decisive action against the armed groups and to resolve the ethnic crisis. "All the MLAs and other leaders must sit together to take decisive actions to resolve the present crisis at the earliest. If they do not take any decisive actions up to the satisfaction of the people of the state, then the government will bear the brunt of the people's discontent and anger," Athouba told the media. "Urgent military crackdown is necessary against the militants and all the armed groups," the COCOMI leader said. Strongly opposing the promulgation of the Armed Forces (Special Power) Act, 1958 in six police stations in five districts last week, he said that the Ministry of Home Affairs unilaterally imposed the AFSPA against the will of the people of the state even as there are no major incidents of violence in most of the six police stations. Meanwhile, 13 civil society organisations, which observed a 24-hour shutdown in six Imphal Valley districts last week to protest the reported "abduction" of six people, belonging to the Meitei community, have called for the resignations of all 50 MLAs in Manipur, including Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, citing a lack of political will and warning of a potential public uprising. Various other organisations and local clubs also issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the MLAs demanding they make a public statement on the ongoing turmoil in Manipur. Meanwhile, mobs set fire to the residences of PWD Minister Govindas Konthoujam at Ningthoukhong and four more legislators - three more of the BJP and one of the Congress - in various districts of the Manipur Valley since Saturday night while the security forces foiled several other attempts, including on the ancestral residence of the Chief Minister at Luwangshangbam in Imphal East district. The MLAs and their family members were not at home when the mobs including women attacked or tried to attack their residences. However, the mobs vandalised vehicles and properties and set two houses on fire. Assam Rifles, the BSF, and state forces, including commandos, fired several rounds of tear gas shells, and rubber bullets to disperse the protesters. injuring more than 15 people. Protesters also burnt tyres on the main roads in the capital city and piled up various materials and heavy iron rods to prevent vehicular movement. Mobs had attacked the residences of at least three ministers and six MLAs, mostly of the ruling BJP, on Saturday after the recovery of the bodies of six missing women and children in the violence-hit Jiribam district. Police said that the mobs comprising men and women attacked the residences of ministers Sapam Ranjan Singh, Leishangthem Susindro Meitei and Yumnam Khemchand Singh in different places. The mob also attacked the houses of six legislators, including that of Rajkumar Imo Singh, who is Chief Minister N Biren Singh's son-in-law. The six bodies, which are not yet identified by the family members, are believed to be of the six women and children missing since November 11 in Jiribam district. The bodies, found on Friday and Saturday near the confluence of the Jiri and Barak rivers along the Manipur-Assam border, were brought to the Silchar Medical College and Hospital in Assam for post-mortem examinations. As the widespread attacks and protests started, authorities imposed a curfew for an indefinite period in Imphal East, West, Bishnupur, Thoubal and Kakching districts of Imphal valley "due to developing law and order situation". Chief Secretary Vineet Joshi ordered the suspension of mobile internet and data services in seven districts -- Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Kangpokpi, and Churachandpur -- for two days from Saturday evening. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Saturday directed all the security forces to take the necessary steps to restore order and peace and take strict action against anyone trying to indulge in violent and disruptive activities. An MHA statement said that the security scenario in Manipur has remained fragile for the past few days."Armed miscreants from both communities in conflict have been indulging in violence leading to unfortunate loss of lives and disruption in public order," it said. Nagpur : , Nov 17 (IANS) Senior Congress' Dalit leader and Nagpur North Assembly seat candidate Dr Nitin Raut has said that he was dropped at the last minute for a cabinet berth by the late Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh for uttering 'Jai Bhim' in front of him in 1999. Raut claimed that this was conveyed to him by former Minister the late Eknath Gaikwad. After the remarks raked up a big controversy causing embarrassment to the Congress, Raut said that his remarks have been twisted. The revelations on the purported incident -- that earned indignation from Bharatiya Janata Party leaders -- came on a day when Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge addressed a rally and AICC General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will conduct a roadshow in Nagpur on Sunday. When contacted, the prominent Dalit leader Raut said that as per its usual style, the BJP has taken part of the whole story and twisted it out of context to suit its agenda. "I never said what is being attributed to me It was told to me by a former Minister, the late Eknath Gaikwad. He took me aside and said my name was on the cabinet ministers' list, but struck off at the last minute as I had uttered 'Jai Bhim' before Deshmukh," Raut told IANS while on a campaign tour in his constituency. Raut added that he mentioned the incident (of 1999) while relating another incident in which some BJP leaders had allegedly forced one of their Dalit candidates to wash peoples' feet to humiliate him. "I pointed out how the BJP candidate may have done it out of 'majboori', but I had no such compulsionsI did not even visit Mantralaya for nearly two months after that incident. Something that I did not say is now being pinned onto me by the BJP and it's childish on their part," said a miffed Raut, 72. According to certain reports on the incident, Raut allegedly narrated how he was slighted by Deshmukh who did not like his chants of 'Jai Bhim' and took the step of 'dropping' him from the cabinet ministers' list as he was a Dalit. The late Gaikwad reportedly even cautioned Raut "to be careful" while talking before Deshmukh, and the latter responded by saying that if he lost the ministerial post for saying 'Jai Bhim' then he was proud. Ultimately, Raut became a Minister of State for Home in 2008 under the then CM Ashok Chavan. He was later promoted to Cabinet Minister in 2009 again under Chavan, and inducted as a Cabinet Minister in the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) regime of ex-CM Uddhav Thackeray in 2019. At one point in the Chavan ministry, Raut had abruptly quit as minister (February 2009) in anger after his MoS Home portfolio was split into 'rural-urban', and the urban department was assigned to senior Congressman M. Arif Naseem Khan, both reporting to (undivided) Nationalist Congress Party's then Home Minister Jayant R. Patil. Feeling that injustice was meted out to him, Raut was further cheesed off when Chavan failed to keep his promise of giving him Cabinet rank and instead chose to split the MoS portfolio and handed the urban department to Khan without informing him (Raut). Years later in 2018, Raut was made Chairman of the AICC SC/ST Department from which he stepped down in 2021 as he was unable to juggle the dual responsibilities and adhere to the Congress policy of 'one man-one post'. The latest fracas attracted flak from state BJP Women's Wing Chitra K. Wagh and others who hit at the Congress for its 'anti-quotas', 'anti-backwards classes' stance and 'Muslim appeasement' policy. When contacted, a state Congress office-bearer said that "whatever Raut has said now is the official stand" of the party in the matter. New Delhi, Nov 17 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, shared his thoughts on the occasion of the 12th death anniversary of Balasaheb Thackeray, the patriarch of right-wing pro-Marathi and Hindu nationalist party Shiv Sena. The Prime Minister took to X and expressed: "I pay homage to the great Balasaheb Thackeray Ji on his Punya Tithi. He was a visionary who championed the cause of Maharashtra's development and the empowerment of Marathi people." "He was a firm believer in enhancing the pride of Indian culture and ethos. His bold voice and unwavering spirit continue to inspire generations," PM Modi added. Bal Keshav Thackeray, popularly known as Balasaheb Thackeray, was a cartoonist and a politician who founded the original Shiv Sena. In his early professional days, Thackeray was a cartoonist for the Bombay-based English daily The Free Press Journal, quitting in 1960 to establish his own political weekly 'Marmik'. His political outlook was largely influenced by his father Keshav Sitaram Thackeray, a leading figure in the Samyukta Maharashtra (United Maharashtra) movement, which advocated the creation of a separate linguistic state for Marathi speakers. Bal Thackeray campaigned against the growing influence of non-Marathis in Mumbai through Marmik. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Thackeray built the Shiv Sena. He also founded the Marathi-language newspaper 'Saamana'. After the riots in the early 90s, Thackeray and his party took a Hindutva stance. In 1999, he was banned from voting and contesting in any election for six years for indulging in seeking votes in the name of religion. Thackeray did not hold any official positions as he was never formally elected as the leader of his party. His son, Uddhav Bal Thackeray served as the 19th Chief Minister of Maharashtra from 2019 to 2022. He took over the leadership of Shiv Sena as well as of Saamana as its Editor-in-Chief from 2006 to 2019. A member of the Maharashtra Legislative Council since 2020, Uddhav Thackeray is the president of both Maha Vikas Aghadi and Shiv Sena (UBT). New Delhi, Nov 17 : Demanding resignation of the "corrupt" Delhi government, the BJP and on Sunday went on the offensive against the ruling AAP after Cabinet Minister Kailash Gehlot stepped down blaming corruption in Arvind Kejriwal's house renovation and failure in cleaning the Yamuna. New Delhi, Nov 17 (IANS) Demanding resignation of the "corrupt" Delhi government, the BJP and on Sunday went on the offensive against the ruling AAP after Cabinet Minister Kailash Gehlot stepped down blaming corruption in Arvind Kejriwal's house renovation and failure in cleaning the Yamuna. Hailing Gehlot's decision to resign in protest, Delhi BJP chief Virender Sachdeva, said, "He has resigned on the issues which were raised by us. In a way, his resignation has confirmed the corruption charges we had levelled against the AAP government." "This is a clear confirmation, from within the AAP, of the fact that Arvind Kejriwal has looted public money in the name of renovation of Sheeshmahal (his former official residence on Flagstaff Road)," Sachdeva told IANS. The Delhi BJP chief said no honest and upright leader would continue in the AAP party or back "corrupt" Kejriwal, he said. "We had been saying from day one that the 'Sheeshmahal' and the luxury that Arvind Kejriwal has collected for himself will prove to be the last nail in his coffin, and it is going to prove to be so. Kailash Gehlot has just hinted at it," he said. "Yamuna is our lifeline, but under Kejriwal, it has turned into a dirty drain despite Rs 8,500 crore being allocated for its rejuvenation. Kailash Gehlot's concerns reflect the sentiments of Delhiites, which, for long, have been demanded by the BJP," he added. BJP leader Kapil Mishra, a former AAP government minister and ex-party leader who had resigned from a Delhi Jal Board post alleging a scam in use of water tankers, said, " Kailash Gehlot's bold step against 'Kejriwal gang's' loot and lies needs to be praised". Gehlot has clearly mentioned in his letter that his extreme step has been forced by the corruption in the AAP, said Mishra, adding that AAP workers are exiting the ruling party in all constituencies. BJP's Jat leader and West Delhi MP Kamaljeet Sehrawat complemented Gehlot for following his inner voice and revolting against corruption perpetrated by Arvind Kejriwal. "By quitting as Delhi minister, Gehlot has proven his integrity and commitment to fight corruption," he said. The MP said, "AAP legislators and councillors are feeling suffocated in the corrupt party. Even in the recent mayor elections in MCD, eight AAP councillors supported the BJP candidate." "Delhi voters can now see how Arvind Kejriwal prevents leaders who want to serve people," she said, adding that very soon many more leaders from the ruling party would follow in Gehlot's footsteps. Manjinder Singh Sirsa, BJP National Secretary, "The time for AAP's exit from Delhi has come. The corrupt ship of Arvind Kejriwal is sinking and his trusted lieutenants like Kailash Gehlot are also deserting him." In the name of cleaning the Yamuna, Kejriwal has pocketed Rs 8,000 crore and he has swindled crores of rupees under the garb of renovating his Sheeshmahal (former CM official residence), said Sirsa, adding that the countdown for the exit of Kejriwal and the AAP from Delhi has begun. Gahlot, who held crucial portfolios like Home, Transport, IT, and Women and Child Development in the Delhi government, has been a long-time member of AAP. Referring to controversies like "Sheeshmahal" (a term used by the BJP for the renovated Chief Minister's residence), Gahlot wrote, "These controversies make people doubt whether we still believe in being the Aam Aadmi." New Delhi, Nov 17 : A new bench, headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna, will on Monday resume hearing a contempt plea alleging that a large number of trees in the national capital's ridge had been felled by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) without obtaining the top court's permission. New Delhi, Nov 17 (IANS) A new bench, headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna, will on Monday resume hearing a contempt plea alleging that a large number of trees in the national capitalas ridge had been felled by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) without obtaining the top court's permission. As per the causelist published on the website of the apex court, a bench of CJI Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar will take up the matter for hearing on November 18. In the previous hearing, then CJI DY Chandrachud-led Bench had asked the DDA about the measures undertaken to restore the Delhi Ridge area and sought the extent of plantation done by the civic body. The previous Bench, also comprising Justices J.B. Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, had observed that it would introduce a monitoring system to ensure planted trees were surviving and wondered if any independent mechanism was in place to ascertain the number of trees planted. After CJI Chandrahud (now retired)-led Bench called for a personal affidavit from Delhi Lt Governor (LG), who functions as Delhi DDA Chairman ex-officio, LG V.K. Saxena expressed his regret before the Supreme Court over the felling of trees in violation of the apex court's order. LG Saxena said that the events which have taken place were "extremely unfortunate and ought not to have happened". "The unfortunate event of felling of the trees on account of certain acts of omission and commission on the part of the DDA, without the permission of this Honable Court is deeply regretted by the deponent," said the personal affidavit sworn by LG Saxena. The Delhi LG added that "he was not also aware, nor made aware of the fact that further permission was required" from the Supreme Court for the felling of trees. The Supreme Court had asked LG Saxena to file an affidavit before October 22, detailing the steps taken to attribute accountability to the officials who acted in breach of its directions. It had said that the DDA Chairman should set in action disciplinary proceedings or criminal prosecution against the erring officials without awaiting its direction. Before this, the top court had issued a notice to the DDA Vice Chairperson and asked why he should not be prosecuted for criminal contempt of court for wilful breach of its orders prohibiting the felling of trees. "We are not prepared to believe that the contractor entrusted with the work of widening the road has indulged in cutting trees of his own volition. Obviously, it has to be on the basis of the instructions from the officers of the DDA," it had said. It had observed that the DDA Vice Chairperson misled the LG by forwarding a proposal to set up a committee of experts to minimise the number of trees felled. "We hope and trust that the Lt Governor will take this issue very seriously, not only in his capacity as the Lt Governor of Delhi but also in his capacity as the Chairman of the DDA," the Supreme Court had added. Pune, Nov 17 : Nationalist Congress Party (SP) President Sharad Pawar joined the galaxy of political leaders who are being subject to 'checks' by the Election Commission of India officials in the ongoing Maharashtra Assembly elections. A team of ECI officials conducted a thorough check of Pawar's baggage and the helicopter in which he was proceeding to Solapur for a poll rally later this afternoon, raising eyebrows in political circles. Simultaneously, Pawar's wife Pratibha and their granddaughter Revati Sule were stopped outside the gates of the famed Baramati Hi-Tech Textile Park in the MIDC region, where they had gone for an interaction and shopping. According to the NCP (SP) social media, both Pratibha Pawar and Revati Sule were barred entry to the textile park and were forced to cool their heels for nearly half an hour, before they were allowed inside as a row erupted outside. Interestingly, the textile park was set up through the efforts of Sharad Pawar in 2008, considered a landmark which threw up huge business and employment opportunities. Its Chairperson is Sunetra Pawar, MP, and wife of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) headed by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar who is contesting the Baramati Assembly seat opposite his nephew, Yugendra S. Pawar. The visibly annoyed Pratibha Pawar had an altercation with the security personnel outside who claimed that he got telephonic instructions to stop them from entering the premises. She sought to know who had ordered them to be stopped and why, whether the park was shut or working (being a Sunday), and said that the duo wanted to go inside for shopping and "not for robbery". "I learnt that my mother and my daughter were prevented from entering the Park See the irony, it was my father (Sharad Pawar) who brought it here, and his wife was not allowed inside. They are currently in power and can do anything," commented NCP (SP) Working President Supriya Sule in a sharp tone, as her luggage was also checked today. Soon afterwards, Ajit Pawar commented saying that there were no directives from anyone to stop his aunt (Pratibha Pawar) or his niece (Revati Sule). The two back-to-back incidents created a consternation in NCP (SP) circles with many slamming the authorities and alleging political motives, and videos of both the developments went viral on social media evoking strong reactions. Besides Sharad Pawar, the top Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA)-INDIA Bloc leaders including Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Shiv Sena(UBT) President Uddhav Thackeray, state Congress leaders and visiting dignitaries have been subjected to frisking of their aircraft and personal belongings. After Thackeray kicked up a storm (November 11) when he reportedly became the first top leader to undergo the baggage checks, the ECI officials have also started scrutinising the luggage of ruling alliance leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party, Shiv Sena headed by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar's NCP. (Quaid Najmi can be contacted at: qnajmi@gmail.com) Gurugram, Nov 17 : The cybercrime teams of Gurugram Police have arrested 11 cyber criminals who defrauded people across India in 9,226 complaints worth Rs 33.50 crore, police said. The arrested were identified as Rajender Parihar, Dharmender Parihar, Irek Khes, Deepak, Amrender alias Ami, Arpit Singh, Lokesh, Kailash Devi, Sanjay, Ashutosh and Ashok. According to the police, after reviewing the data of mobile phones and SIM cards recovered from the accused by the police from the Indian Cyber Crime Coordinate Center (I4C), it was found that the accused were involved in fraud of about Rs 33.50 crore and around 9,226 complaints were registered against them across India. In connection with this, 388 cases were registered across India. Out of which 19 cases were registered against them in Haryana including six in Gurugram. The accused were involved in creating fake IDs on Instagram, committing task-based fraud, fraud in the name of online ticket booking and internet banking," Priyanshu Diwan, ACP (South) said. The police also recovered, Rs 14.47 lakh and nine mobile phones used in the crime. Further action is being taken regularly on the information obtained by examining the devices recovered from the arrested cyber fraudsters by the Police. Diwan said the Gurugram Police cyber crime teams are constantly taking necessary action against cyber criminals. Apart from this, the Gurugram Police have arrested 20 bank officials within six months who were allegedly involved in cyber fraud," he said. He asserted that the Gurugram Police is closely working with other agencies and organisations to counter these frauds. "We appealed to the public to steer clear of such dubious callers and advised caution in sharing personal details to strangers stalking them online," he added. PORT SUDAN, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) said on Sunday that 150 fighters of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) were killed in a battle in El Fasher, the capital city of North Darfur State in western Sudan. "Our forces have been engaged in a continued battle for more than two hours southeast of El Fasher," the command of the SAF's 6th Infantry Division in El Fasher said in a statement. "Several militia bases have been captured so far, with enemy casualties estimated at 150," the statement added, noting that the SAF units were making significant advancement. The RSF has not commented on the battle. Sudan has been engulfed in a devastating conflict between the SAF and the RSF since mid-April 2023. The deadly conflict has resulted in over 24,850 deaths and displaced more than 14 million people, according to estimates by international organizations. Chennai, Nov 17 : Madras High Court on Sunday remanded Tamil actor Kasthuri Shankar to judicial custody until November 29. Her arrest follows the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court denying her anticipatory bail in a case related to derogatory remarks allegedly targeting the Telugu community. Kasthuri was taken into custody on Saturday night by a special police team from Egmore and transported by road from Hyderabad to Chennai. She was produced before the Vth Metropolitan Magistrate Court in Egmore on Sunday, where Magistrate Ragupathy Raja issued the remand order. She was subsequently admitted to the Puzhal prison. Police sources revealed that Kasthuri had been hiding at the Hyderabad residence of Telugu film producer Hari Krishnan. She allegedly used the producer's mobile phone to communicate with her family and legal counsel. Kasthuri was charged under Sections 191 and 192 of the BNS Act of 2023, which includes accusations of hate speech and targeting the Telugu community. The controversy stems from remarks made by Kasthuri on November 3 at a Brahmin gathering in Chennai. She allegedly stated that Telugu-speaking people in Tamil Nadu were "descendants of courtesans" who came to serve Tamil kings 300 years ago and were now claiming Tamil origins. Her comments sparked widespread criticism, prompting a member of the Naidu Mahajana Sangam State Executive Committee to file an FIR against her. In response to the backlash, Kasthuri issued an apology on social media platform X, claiming that "false news" was being spread by "Tamil Nadu's Goebbels and the anti-Hindu DMK network." She also expressed her love and loyalty to the Telugu community, stating that the people of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana would not believe such false narratives. On November 14, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court dismissed Kasthuri's anticipatory bail plea. Justice Anand Venkatesh described her comments as "unwarranted" and found her apology inadequate, as it did not directly address the offensive remarks against women in the Telugu community. The court remarked that Kasthuri "should have refrained from speaking against the women of the Telugu community." Kasthuri argued that the FIR was politically motivated and accused the ruling DMK government of having an "intolerant and vindictive attitude" toward her. She maintained that her remarks neither incited unrest nor provoked the Telugu community. She clarified that her comments were aimed at exposing the DMK's "outsider politics," which she claimed stigmatises Brahmins while ignoring the historical migrations of other groups into Tamil Nadu. Kasthuri stated that her remarks referred to "staff of consorts," not "descendants of consorts," citing historical references, including DMK leader M. Karunanidhi's acknowledgement of the migration of artisans and musicians. Kasthuri further accused the DMK of promoting "Brahmin persecution, Sanatana opposition, and Hindu god humiliation" and labelled their stance as "anti-Hindu, anti-Brahmin, and anti-Sanatana." BJP Kasthuri, who actively campaigned for the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, faced criticism from the party which distanced itself from her remarks and condemned her statements. New Delhi, Nov 17 : Sagarmanthan, South Asia's largest maritime thought leadership forum, begins in the national capital on Monday, with participants from more than 60 countries expected to attend the event. New Delhi, Nov 17 (IANS) Sagarmanthan, South Asiaas largest maritime thought leadership forum, begins in the national capital on Monday, with participants from more than 60 countries expected to attend the event. India aims to lead critical discussions on inclusive growth, sustainable practices, and resilient communities for a better outcome in the initiative to unlock potential from the Blue Economy. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said: "Sagarmanthan is an attempt at celebrating the best available knowledge in the maritime sector from global experts with deep understanding, wisdom and insights on upcoming trends. As Indiaas role as an important & key maritime player has increased manifold, especially since 2014 under the dynamic leadership of PM (Narendra) Modi, this platform offers a premier platform for everyone to seek knowledge, share wisdom, chalk out pathways and set the course for maritime sectoras collective journey onwards." The Ministry aims to convert this maiden effort into an annual event. Identified as the regionas first-of-its-kind thought leadership event on the maritime sector, aSagarmanthan - the Great Oceans Dialoguea, has been designed around four central themes which are New Frontiers, Blue Growth Partnerships for Progress, Green and Blue, and Coasts & Communities. The New Frontiers will explore subjects around connectivity, infrastructure and development in a dynamic world. The second theme, Blue Growth, is aimed at fostering partnerships for progress, according to the ministryas statement. "This forum reflects Indiaas commitment to a resilient and sustainable maritime future, balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship. Together, we are setting the course for a blue economy that is inclusive, forward-looking, and prepared to meet the challenges of the future," Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur, said. International attendees include Greece's Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Christos Stylianides, Maldives' Minister of State for Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Amzath Ahmed, Forum of Regions of Africa, Nigeria, Pioneer President John Kayode Fayemi, and Greek MP Harry Theoharis. The Dialogue will feature more than 160 participants from 60 countries across the globe including ministers, former heads of state and government, journalists, and experts. DP World CEO and Managing Director Rizwan Soomar will discuss trade connectivity and maritime logistics while Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of the Prime Ministeras Economic Advisory Council in India, will highlight Indiaas evolving role in the global maritime economy. Signe Brudeset, Director General of the Regional Department at Norway's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will contribute insights on sustainable maritime policies and international partnerships. Participants from Nigeria, Greece, Maldives, the Netherlands, South Africa, Taiwan, Belgium, Egypt, Norway, Brazil, Australia, Denmark, Ethiopia, Germany, Sweden, Italy, Lebanon, Malaysia, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Tunisia, Turkey, USA, South Korea, Switzerland, UK, New Zealand, the UAE, Kenya, Argentina, and Papua New Guinea are scheduled to speak at maritime thought leadership summit. Imphal, Nov 17 : Amidst the devastating ethnic violence in Manipur, the opposition Congress on Sunday said that the people of the state do not support the imposition of the President's rule in the state while the party announced that their MLAs and MPs will not resign as certain civil society organisations are demanding. Former three-term Chief Minister and veteran Congress leader Okram Ibobi Singh (2002-2017) said that demands for the resignations of the elected MLAs and MPs are only to divert the attention from the present crisis in Manipur. He said that if the resignation of the Congress MLAs and MPs helps in the solution of the present ethnic crisis, they are ready to quit their membership in the legislative bodies but at the moment there is no reason to resign. "It is the responsibility of the Central and state governments to restore peace and normalcy in the state by involving all communities, civil society organisations, political parties and all the stakeholders," Singh told the media. Claiming that the constitutional machinery completely collapsed in Manipur, he said that the people of Manipur also do not favour the imposition of the President's rule. Resignation of incumbent Chief Minister N. Biren Singh or replacement of the Chief Minister is an internal matter of the ruling BJP, the 76-year-old Congress leader said. Meanwhile, 13 civil society organisations belonging to the Meitei community, have called for the resignations of all 50 MLAs in Manipur, including Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, citing a lack of political will and warning of a potential public uprising. Lok Sabha member (Congress) Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, who along with top state Congress leaders were present during the media briefing, said that the Lok Sabha election mandate went against the present government and the ruling BJP. It is the sole responsibility of the central and state governments to resolve the crisis as soon as possible. "We are raising the Manipur crisis both in the parliament and outside the parliament. Before us no other leaders raised the Manipur issue in the Parliament so elaborately," said Bimol Akoijam, a former Professor of Jawaharlal Nehru University in Delhi. In the April-May Lok Sabha elections, the opposition Congress won in both the Lok Sabha seats Inner Manipur (Angomcha Bimol Akoijam) and Outer Manipur (Alfred Kanngam S Arthur) defeating the candidates of the ruling BJP and its ally. The academic-turned-politician said that the BJP and the ruling party leaders are making drama and misleading the people by raising different issues at different times without performing their constitutional responsibility. To a question about the imposition of the Armed Forces (Special Power) Act, 1958 in six police stations in five districts last week, Bimol Akoijam said that the people of the northeast have enough experience against the AFSPA. He said that Manipur is the only state in India where the Centre imposes AFSPA in certain areas and the state government promulgates the law in certain areas. "Massacre of people in Nagaland's Oting still very much alive in our memory," the MP said. In all 14 people were killed and 30 others injured by the security forces at Oting in Nagaland's Mon district in December 2021 in a case of "mistaken identity". Bimol Akoijam said that in Manipur there was erosion of the federal structure in the state as certain parts of the state were controlled by the Centre and certain parts by the state government. "There is no minimum coordination among the security forces in Manipur despite a Unified Command Structure existing," the parliament member said and pointed out that all political leaders must raise their voices unitedly against the violence. New Delhi, Nov 17 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday appreciated a film, 'The Sabarmati Report', based on the Godhra train burning incident of February 27, 2002, in Gujarat, welcoming the factual depiction of the incident in which 59 people were killed. Sharing a cinegoer's post on social media handle X praising the film, PM Modi said, "Well said. It is good that this truth is coming out, and that too in a way common people can see it." "A fake narrative can persist only for a limited period of time. Eventually, the facts will always come out!" said PM Modi, who was the Chief Minister of Gujarat at the time of the train burning. PM Modi endorsed Alok Bhatt's post in which the latter called the film a must-watch. The X user gave four reasons for watching the film. "Why I feel the film #SabarmatiReport is a must-watch. Let me share my views. The effort is particularly commendable because it brings out the important truth of one of the most shameful events in our recent history," he wrote. Bhatt said, "The makers of the film handled this issue with a lot of sensitivity and dignity." "On a larger point, it is worth introspection for all of us as to how the brutal burning of passengers of the Sabarmati Express was turned into a political minefield by a vested interest group, who saw it as a means to tarnish the image of one leader. Their ecosystem peddled one lie after another just to satisfy their own petty agenda," said Bhatt in his post. He said, "Finally 59 innocent victims got to speak for themselves. Yes, as they say, truth alone triumphs. This movie is indeed a fitting tribute to those 59 innocent men, women and children we lost that February morning." The film is an attempt to showcase the events of the morning of February 27, 2002, aboard the Sabarmati Express near the Godhra railway station in Gujarat. The Central Board of Film Certification issued 'The Sabarmati Report' a U/A certificate with few cuts as strong violent scenes, few muted words and alterations. The duration of the film is 126.51 minutes. Co-produced by Balaji Motion Pictures and Vikir Films Production, the film features Vikrant Massey, Ridhi Dogra and Raashii Khanna and is directed by Dheeraj Sarna. At least 59 people were killed in the Godhra train burning which occurred on the morning of February 27 2002. A total of 59 Hindu pilgrims and karsevaks returning from Ayodhya were killed in a fire inside the Sabarmati Express near the Godhra railway station in Gujarat. New Delhi, Nov 17 : The Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) is set to convene its second Panchayat Sammelan on November 19 at the Taj Hotel & Convention Centre in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. This is the second aPanchayat Sammelana of the series of four sammelans, the first being held in Hyderabad. This initiative marks a significant milestone in strengthening grassroots governance and service delivery mechanisms in rural areas across the country. Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, S. P. Singh Baghel, will chair this crucial regional workshop titled aPanchayat Sammelan on Ease of Living: Enhancing Service Delivery at Grassrootsa. The event will also be attended by Om Prakash Rajbhar, Panchayati Raj Minister of Uttar Pradesh; Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj; Narendra Bhooshan, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Panchayati Raj, Uttar Pradesh; Alok Prem Nagar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, highlighting the collaborative efforts of the Central and State Governments in promoting good governance and sustainable rural development. The Panchayat Sammelan will host delegates from eight States -- Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Nagaland, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand -- representing diverse geographical regions and governance experiences. Panchayat functionaries and elected representatives, who form the backbone of grassroots service delivery, will participate in detailed deliberations on enhancing last-mile service accessibility and establishing quality benchmarks for rural governance. The workshop aims to catalyse transformative changes in rural governance, ultimately contributing to the ease of living for rural citizens across India. Building on the success of the Hyderabad Panchayat Sammelan, the Agra Panchayat Sammelan will also be live-streamed in 11 languages -- Bengali, English, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, and Telugu -- using the AI-powered Bhashini platform, the MoPR said in a statement. The Panchayat Sammelan in Agra will highlight transformative initiatives, including harnessing emerging technologies for enhanced service delivery by the Wadhwani Foundation, configuring ServicePlus for online services by NIC and MoPR, and leveraging digital public goods such as RapidPro (UNICEF) and Bhashini. In addition, the National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRD&PR) will present strategies for benchmarking rural service delivery, reflecting a robust commitment to digital innovation and governance excellence. The Panchayat Sammelan builds upon the constitutional mandate enshrined in Article 243G, which empowers Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) as vital units of local self-government. This constitutional provision has entrusted PRIs with the crucial responsibility of implementing 29 subjects, including agriculture, health, education, social welfare and public distribution systems, marking them as essential pillars of decentralised governance. As the third tier of democratic governance, Panchayats play a pivotal role in ensuring timely and effective delivery of services directly to rural residentsa doorsteps. The workshop will focus on developing robust strategies to deepen service accessibility to the last mile, with particular emphasis on benchmarking and enhancing service delivery quality. Chennai, Nov 17 : Tamil Nadu BJP Spokesperson A.N.S. Prasad has called for the immediate removal of state Health Minister Ma Subramanian, citing a "deepening healthcare crisis" in the state. Chennai, Nov 17 (IANS) Tamil Nadu BJP Spokesperson A.N.S. Prasad has called for the immediate removal of state Health Minister Ma Subramanian, citing a "deepening healthcare crisis" in the state. Prasad's demand comes in the wake of the shocking stabbing of Dr. Balaji, an oncologist at Chennai's Kalaignar Centenary Hospital, by Vignesh, a 26-year-old man. The BJP leader argued that this incident exposes the grim reality of the state's healthcare system, contradicting the DMK government's claims of operating the best government hospitals in India. Prasad criticised the severe shortage of doctors, nurses, and medical staff in Tamil Nadu's government hospitals, which he said has led to unbearable work pressure, mental stress, and frustration among healthcare workers. "Patients from economically weaker sections bear the brunt of this crisis, facing immense hardship and humiliation due to the lack of basic facilities, including beds, medicines, and diagnostic equipment," Prasad also highlighted the "deteriorating condition" of government hospitals across districts, claiming that the DMK government has "failed" to fulfil its electoral promises and address doctors' long-standing demands. "Despite Health Minister Ma Subramanian's empty boasts in press conferences, Tamil Nadu's healthcare system is in shambles. His inability to address basic needs and improve hospital administration amounts to gross dereliction of duty," he said. The BJP leader urged the government to prioritise healthcare reforms, including an increase in the doctor-patient ratio, enhancing the strength of nurses and medical staff, improving laboratory facilities, ensuring uninterrupted medicine supply and augmenting bed capacity in hospitals. He stressed that the crumbling healthcare infrastructure has not only impacted patients but also triggered incidents of violence, as seen in the recent stabbing incident. "The people of Tamil Nadu deserve better than a government that prioritises rhetoric over real action. The DMK government must be held accountable for its healthcare failures and take immediate steps to revamp the system," Prasad added. Gadchiroli-nagpur, Nov 17 : AICC General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi alleged that under the Bharatiya Janata Party rule, "no women, farmers, youth or workers are feeling safe" and it's only the businessman friends of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who are secure. Gadchiroli-Nagpur, Nov 17 (IANS) AICC General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi alleged that under the Bharatiya Janata Party rule, "no women, farmers, youth or workers are feeling safe" and it's only the businessman friends of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who are secure. Addressing a massive rally in the Maoist-affected Gadchiroli district and later holding a huge road show in Nagpur, she targeted the BJP regime for indulging in 'politics of discrimination' on the question of developmental works in the country. "India's first PM Jawaharlal Nehru set up many big educational institutions, factories, ports, dams, and hospitals across all states considering the overall interests of the country. The Congress governments in the past never practised favouritism in progress and development, like the BJP government's policies of discrimination in the past 10 years," said Priyanka Gandhi. She cited how the BJP has always been unfair against Maharashtra by diverting several mega-projects to Gujarat or other states. As a result, unemployment has shot up hugely, 2.50 lakh government posts remain vacant with no recruitments, jobs are being filled on a contract basis leading to frustration among the youngsters, and maximum suicides among youth are happening in Maharashtra, said Priyanka Gandhi. She reiterated how the agriculturists are in deep distress without proper remuneration prices for their produce, which is driving many farmers to end their lives in despair, particularly in the Vidarbha region. Besides, she referred to the growing costs of cultivation with the imposition of GST on agricultural inputs that has further added to the woes of the tillers in the country. "The Congress had enacted the PESA Act to safeguard the rights of Adivasis, but today they are at the receiving end under the BJP Some 400,000 tribals had applied for plots of land of which half were rejected All over India, the applications of 22 lakh tribals were denied," said Priyanka Gandhi. Referring to the manner in which the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government in Maharashtra was 'stolen' (in June 2022), she called upon the electorate to exercise their votes very carefully for a government that works for the people and not some industrialists. State Congress President Nana F. Patole that the resources-rich Gadchiroli district is being 'looted' of its natural wealth and that must be stopped, along with the duping of tribals, farmers, women, youth and workers under the BJP regime. "After the MVA government comes to power, we shall set up industries in Gadchiroli to create jobs for the youth. There is huge anger among the masses, the younger generation is being ruined by the menace of narcotic drugs brought here from Gujarat. The MahaYuti has mortgaged the state to Gujarat. Now the people must bring back the MVA which will protect your interests," appealed Patole. Others who spoke or attended the rally included AICC General Secretary Ramesh Chennithala, state Leader of Opposition Vijay Wadettiwar, former Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh Bhupesh Baghel, RPI leader Rajendra Gavai, leaders of MVA allies like Nationalist Congress Party (SP) and Shiv Sena (UBT), for MVA candidates, ahead of the November 20 Assembly elections. Later, Priyanka Gandhi-Vadra and other leaders took part in a colourful road show in Nagpur with thousands trooping on the streets, even as a minor scuffle erupted among the Congress-BJP workers which the police managed to rein in. Shimla, Nov 17 : The Congress government in Himachal Pradesh on Sunday announced to hold of a mega event in Bilaspur, the home district of BJP national President J.P. Nadda, to mark two years at helm. Four party leaders from Bilaspur called on Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu here to discuss developmental initiatives for Bilaspur district, an official statement said. They were Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani, former minister Ram Lal Thakur, former legislators Bumber Thakur and Vivek Kumar. The Chief Minister informed them that the government has decided that a mega event to celebrate the completion of two years of the state government will be held on December 11 in Bilaspur town. Over 25,000 people are expected to attend the event and the Chief Minister directed arrangements to begin to ensure its success. The leaders assured the Chief Minister that the event would be historic. Discussions were also held on developmental projects underway in the district. The Chief Minister emphasised that the government is committed to ensuring comprehensive development in the Bilaspur district. The leaders raised the demand for constructing the Beri-Dadola bridge, saying it would benefit residents of three constituencies -- Bilaspur (Sadar), Jhanduta and Ghumarwin. They apprised the Chief Minister that approach roads on both sides of the bridge have already been constructed. The Chief Minister assured them the construction of the bridge would be prioritized, and a survey would be conducted. After the survey, the government would make financial implications for the project. Former minister Ram Lal Thakur demanded granting Nagar Panchayat status to Swarghat under the Naina Devi assembly constituency, while Vivek Kumar raised a similar demand for Jhanduta under the Jhanduta assembly constituency. The Chief Minister assured both leaders that the government would seriously consider these demands and make every effort to grant Nagar Panchayat status to these areas. Abuja, Nov 17 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday agreed to work together to meet the development aspirations of the Global South and, at the same time, further strengthen the India-Nigeria Strategic Partnership. The two leaders had a restricted meeting followed by delegation-level talks at Abuja's Aso Rock Villa, which serves as the office and residence of the Nigerian Presidency. "Had a very productive discussion with President Tinubu. We talked about adding momentum to our strategic partnership. There is immense scope for ties to flourish even further in sectors like defence, energy, technology, trade, health, education and more," PM Modi posted on X after the bilateral discussions. Tinubu acknowledged India's efforts to amplify the concerns of developing countries through the Voice of the Global South Summits. "Expressing satisfaction at the progress of ties, they agreed that there was immense potential for collaboration in the fields of trade, investment, education, energy, health, culture, and people-to-people ties. The Prime Minister offered Indiaas experience in agriculture, transportation, affordable medicine, renewable energy, and digital transformation to Nigeria," read a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). "President Tinubu appreciated the development cooperation partnership offered by India and its meaningful impact in creating local capacities, skills, and professional expertise. The two leaders also discussed enhancing defence and security cooperation. They reaffirmed their commitment to jointly fighting terrorism, piracy and radicalisation," it added. During their meeting, Prime Minister Modi recalled his warm interaction with President Tinubu at the G 20 Summit in New Delhi, last year. He noted that the two countries enjoy special bonds of friendship defined by a shared past, common democratic values and strong people-to-people ties. PM Modi also conveyed his sympathies to the Nigerian President for the destruction caused by the recent floods in the country while President Tinubu thanked the PM for Indiaas timely assistance with relief material and medicines. As they reviewed the ongoing bilateral cooperation, the two leaders also discussed global and regional issues. Prime Minister Modi appreciated the role played by Nigeria as the current chair of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and its contribution to multilateral and plurilateral bodies. Alluding to Nigeriaas membership of the International Solar Alliance and the International Big Cat Alliance, Prime Minister Modi invited President Tinubu to join other pro-planet green initiatives launched by India. Following the talks, three Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) - on Cultural Exchange Programme, Customs Cooperation and Survey Cooperation a" were signed. Tinubu also conferred the national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on Prime Minister Modi. "Nigeria values its excellent relationship with India, and we work to deepen and broaden the same to the mutual benefit of our two friendly countries. You represent a very strong commitment in democratic values and norms. You have been doing a good job historically, winning three consecutive elections in a complex society is a feat that we respect so much," said Tinubu. "I will confer on you today, the Prime Minister of India, Nigeriaas National Honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger. This to signify Nigerian appreciation and commitment to India as a partner," he added as the ceremony was followed by a state banquet hosted by the Nigerian President in honour of Prime Minister Modi. Notably, the only foreign dignitary to have previously received the award was Queen Elizabeth in 1969. Earlier in the day, PM Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome with a 21-gun salute as he arrived at the State House. Prime Minister Modi will interact with the Indian diaspora at a community event before leaving for Brazil to attend the G20 Summit. Kolkata, Nov : Indian Army's Gajraj Corps, under the Eastern Command, on Sunday, paid glowing tributes to the bravehearts of the 4 Garhwal Rifles who made the supreme sacrifice in the famous Battle of Nuranang against the People's Liberation Army (PLA) during the 1962 Sino-Indian War. November 17 is commemorated as Nuranang Day by the Army. "Several events were organised at Jaswant Garh in Arunachal Pradesh. Tributes were paid to Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, Maha Vir Chakra (Posthumous) and his fellow soldiers who displayed exemplary courage in that Battle against insurmountable odds. Wreaths were laid at the Jaswant Garh War Memorial in the presence of the family of Rifleman Rawat, civil officials, ex-servicemen, students and tourists, including Hakraso Kri, additional divisional commissioner of Jang," a senior official of the Eastern Command said. Jaswant Garh is named after Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, who was barely 22 years old when he left his indelible mark in the annals of Indian military history. According to details published by the Ministry of Defence (MoD), Rawat, along with Lance Naik Trilok Singh Negi, Vir Chakra, and Rifleman Gopal Singh Gusain, Vir Chakra, were assigned to take on a PLA medium machine gun (MMG) post. "Under cover of boulders, scraggy bushes and trees, at the risk of their own lives due to heavy enemy fire, they crawled forward and reached within 10 to 15 yards of the target. While Lance Naik undertook covering fire with his sten gun, Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat and the other rifleman hurled grenades at the enemy MMG. The grenades exploded and without losing time both of them rushed towards the MMG position. They saw two Chinese lying dead and another, though badly wounded, still holding on to the MMG. They jumped on him and overpowered him. Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat snatched the MMG and both of them returned to their own position under the covering fire provided by the Lance Naik. As they were entering their trenches, the enemy opened automatic fire from close range. Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat was hit on the head and died on the spot, still holding the MMG in his hand. The other rifleman, though badly wounded, was saved," the citation that accompanies Rawat's Mava Vir Chakra states. Local legend, however, maintains that Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat volunteered to stay behind while his comrades retreated to a safe position. Rawat, with the help of two local girls - Sela and Nura - then moved from one boulder to another and killed 300 PLA soldiers, holding up their advance by 72 hours. The legend goes on to say that Sela was killed and Rawat either ended his life with his last bullet or was captured by the PLA who beheaded him. Nura was also supposedly captured. After the War ended in a ceasefire, the Chinese allegedly returned Rawat's head along with a bronze bust they had built to honour the courage of the soldier. "The other events held on Sunday included the inauguration of Smriti Sthal; a newly established memorial featuring artefacts and displays commemorating the valour of the heroes, a battle reenactment that portrayed the gripping details of the Battle of Nuranang, highlighting the indomitable spirit of Indian soldiers and cultural performances by students of local schools and vibrant Bhangra and Gatka displays by warriors of the Sela Brigade," the official added. According to him, several pre-event activities were also organised, including a meeting of ex-servicemen and Gaon Burhas to address areas of concern, a health camp and a Ride for Remembrance. This was a 400 km journey by 13 riders from the Arunachal Bullet Club, who undertook a Battle Tour of Kameng Region under the Gajraj Corps, paying homage to war memorials and promoting the spirit of patriotism. The bikers visited Nyukmadung and Jaswant Garh War Memorials, Mago and Chumi Gyatse. TASHKENT, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- From January to October 2024, approximately 6.5 million foreign tourists visited Uzbekistan, according to local media reports on Saturday, citing the country's statistics agency. It was reported that the number of foreign tourists increased by 951,300 people, or about 17.2 percent, compared to the same period last year. According to country-specific statistics, the largest number of tourists came from Tajikistan, totaling 1.878 million. China ranked seventh with 57,700 visitors. According to the country's statistics agency, in 2023, over 42,000 tourists from China visited Uzbekistan. Seoul, Nov 17 : A consultative body involving the ruling People Power Party (PPP), the government and doctors' groups held their second round of talks on Sunday but failed to narrow their differences as they seek to resolve a prolonged walkout by trainee doctors. Thousands of trainee doctors have left their workplaces in a mass resignation since February to protest the government's decision to sharply raise the medical school quota, causing major disruptions to the national health care service, reports Yonhap news agency. In a press briefing after the meeting held at the National Assembly, PPP spokesperson Han Zeea said the medical community and the government remained at an impasse over the admission quotas for both next year and 2026 at the meeting. The medical community has demanded that the government revise the hike in the medical school quota from scratch, but the government has refused to adjust the 2025 quota and instead said it would revisit the quota hike plan for 2026 and beyond. The consultative body was launched last week without participation from opposition parties. From the medical community, one group of medical school deans and another group representing medical researchers joined the body. However, the group for junior doctors and the Korea Medical Association, South Korea's largest group of doctors, have boycotted the initiative. Last month, the education ministry said it will temporarily allow medical students to take a leave of absence on condition that they return to school next year. The decision follows Seoul National University's move late last month to approve leave of absence requests submitted en masse in protest of the government's medical reform plans, which include increasing medical school quotas. While reaffirming its stance that taking leave to show solidarity is not a valid reason, the ministry said its temporary measure is aimed, in part, at normalising education. It, however, warned that students who fail to return next year will face penalties, including possible expulsion. The ministry stressed that taking semesters off in collective protest does not "constitute legitimate grounds" for a leave of absence, but added that universities should "guarantee students the opportunity to return through individual consultation." New Delhi, Nov 17 : Calling AAP a sinking ship, the Congress on Sunday blamed the corruption in the AAP government for the sudden resignation of Delhi Minister Kailash Gahlot, saying the ruling party was caught in a web of corruption, commission and mal-administration. Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee President Devender Yadav said AAP ministers and MLAs are either going to jail or deserting the party fearing the Enforcement Directorate. Yadav said Gahlot was a close associate of AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal and his exit from the Delhi Cabinet and the AAP has exposed the party's internal dirty politics and secrets. The Delhi Congress chief said that two of the reasons cited by Gahlot in his resignation letter to Kejriwal were the AAP government's failure to clean the polluted Yamuna, and the corruption in the construction of the "Sheesh Mahal" or former CM Kejriwal's official residence. "We had promised to transform the Yamuna into a clean river, but now the Yamuna is perhaps even more polluted than ever before," he said. Yadav said that Ghelot had only validated Delhi Congress' charge of corruption and misrule by the AAP leaders. He said that the AAP had lost the faith and trust of the people, and the party's disintegration was on expected lines. Referring to the corruption allegations levelled by Gahlot against the Delhi government, Yadav said Kejriwal must now be afraid of getting exposed. Congress General Secretary and Rajya Sabha MP Randeep Surjewala said, "This resignation is not related to the Congress as we have no alliance with the AAP in Delhi. It is their internal matter. However, the people of Delhi are suffering due to the ongoing conflict between two individuals and their respective parties..." Citing challenges like corruption and AAP's deviation from the path of fighting for public welfare, Gahlot on Sunday resigned from the Delhi Cabinet and the party, delivering a big blow to the AAP ahead of the Assembly elections scheduled to be held in February. On Sunday afternoon, DPCC chief Yadav addressed thousands of Congress workers, street vendors, sacked bus marshals and local residents at Ghonda Chowk in Ghonda Assembly in North East Delhi, on the 10th day of the Delhi Nyay Yatra. He said that the non-implementation of the Street Vending Act to provide separate vending zones to street vendors by the Arvind Kejriwal government has affected lakhs of poor people who were being harassed daily by the police and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) officials. He said that when the Congress-led UPA government was at the Centre, a Street Vending law was passed in Parliament at the initiative of then Urban Development Minister Ajay Maken, to make street vending a right to livelihood by giving them separate vending zones, but the Kejriwal government only tried to displace them by snatching their livelihood. The Delhi Nyay Yatra on Sunday covered the Ghonda and Seelampur Assembly constituencies before concluding at Nala Road, Jaffarabad. Yadav said that the objective of the Yatra is to get Delhi rid of the corrupt and incompetent parties like the AAP and the BJP. He said that the people of Delhi now want Congress back in power as they want a government that works for the people, provides them justice and prosperity, and saves them from the agony suffered in the past 10 years. The Delhi Congress President said that the Atishi government, during the two-day Assembly session, demanded the reinstatement of the bus marshals but despite the direction of the LG to reemploy the bus marshals by November 1, the CM and Kejriwal were playing politics with the lives of the unemployed marshals. Chandigarh, Nov 17 : Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav said on Sunday that Punjab Police have arrested a kingpin of a highway robbers gang after a brief exchange of fire and recovered a pistol along with five live cartridges from his possession. The arrested accused has been identified as Satpreet Singh, a resident of Mohali. Police teams have also impounded the Platina motorcycle he was riding. DGP Yadav said the accused has a criminal history with criminal cases pertaining to snatching and robbery registered against him. The Sattias gang primarily targeted halted vehicles on the Ambala-Dera Bassi highway and was involved in multiple robberies and snatching incidents in Punjab and Haryana. He said preliminary investigations have revealed the accused Satti along with his other three associates was involved in recent two late-night robberies and snatching that took place on the highway on November 3 and 10 in which cash, mobile and gold ornaments were robbed at gunpoint. Senior Superintendent of Police (Mohali) Deepak Pareek said during the investigation credible information about this robbers gang headed by Satti was received that corresponded with the facts and the evidence gathered in the recent late-night incidents at Lalru town. Acting swiftly, the team worked on human and technical inputs and traced Satti's movement near Lehli village, he said, adding when police teams were chasing accused Satti, who was riding the motorcycle, the latter opened fire on the police team. The SSP said three fire shots hit the official police vehicle and in the retaliation fire by police teams, accused Satti sustained a bullet injury on his right leg. Further investigation is ongoing to identify and arrest other associates of Satti, he said. A case has been registered under Sections 109, 132 and 221 of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 25 of the Arms Act at the police station in Lalru. New Delhi, Nov 17 : The development of a semiconductor unit in Morigaon, Assam, spearheaded by Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test Pvt Ltd (TSAT) with an investment of Rs 27,000 crore is headed for completion in mid-2025, will be a game-changer for India's semiconductor ecosystem, the Ministry of Electronics & IT said on Sunday. New Delhi, Nov 17 (IANS) The development of a semiconductor unit in Morigaon, Assam, spearheaded by Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test Pvt Ltd (TSAT) with an investment of Rs 27,000 crore is headed for completion in mid-2025, will be a game-changer for Indiaas semiconductor ecosystem, the Ministry of Electronics & IT said on Sunday. The Morigaon facility is expected to produce up to 48 million semiconductor chips per day, employing advanced packaging technologies like flip chip and Integrated System in Package (ISIP). Designed to cater to essential sectors such as automotive, electric vehicles, telecommunications, and consumer electronics, the project is set to become one of the countryas premier manufacturing sites. It aligns with the nationas broader goal of establishing a self-sufficient semiconductor ecosystem. The Morigaon unit goes beyond technological development, it brings significant socio-economic benefits by generating 15,000 direct and 11,000-13,000 indirect jobs, contributing to regional economic growth in Assam and nearby areas. As a high-capacity production site, the facilityas daily output will serve both domestic and international markets, positioning India as a competitive force in the global semiconductor supply chain, the statement said. Industry estimates place the Indian semiconductor market at approximately $38 billion in 2023, with projections indicating growth to $109 billion by 2030. To support this rapid expansion and reduce reliance on imports, the Indian government has implemented several initiatives aimed at promoting domestic semiconductor manufacturing. The India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) aims to build a sustainable semiconductor and display ecosystem that will position India as a leader in electronics manufacturing and design. Guided by international semiconductor experts, ISM coordinates efforts across government ministries, industry, and academic institutions to ensure efficient deployment of resources and support. Launched in 2021 with a financial outlay of a76,000 crore, the Semicon India program is structured to promote the domestic semiconductor industry through incentives and strategic partnerships. This initiative supports various sectors of the semiconductor industry, extending beyond just fabrication facilities (fabs) to include packaging, display wires, Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Testing (OSATs), sensors, and other critical components, creating a comprehensive ecosystem. Under the program, four schemes have been introduced namely the Modified Scheme for setting up Semiconductor Fabs in India, the Modified Scheme for setting up Display Fabs in India, the Modified Scheme for setting up Compound Semiconductors/ Silicon Photonics/ Sensors Fab/ Discrete Semiconductors Fab and Semiconductor ATMP/ OSAT facilities in India, and Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme. The Morigaon semiconductor facility is part of a wider network of government-backed projects aimed at bolstering Indiaas semiconductor production capabilities. The Union Cabinet has approved the establishment of multiple semiconductor units across the nation, including new facilities by Tata Electronics in Dholera, Gujarat, and CG Power in Sanand, Gujarat. Additionally, Kaynes Semicon Pvt Ltd was approved to set up a unit in Sanand as well. This expansion signifies Indiaas commitment to reducing reliance on semiconductor imports and fortifying its position in the global semiconductor value chain. The government has also focused on modernizing the Semi-Conductor Laboratory in Mohali and implementing the Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS) and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Large-Scale Electronics. These efforts ensure support for every segment of semiconductor production, fostering an ecosystem that encompasses chip design, fabrication, testing, and assembly. As the demand for semiconductors surges worldwide, Indiaas burgeoning semiconductor infrastructure is set to drive innovation, create jobs, and secure the countryas position as a significant player in the global digital economy, the statement added. Beirut, Nov 17 : Israeli warplanes launched five fresh raids on Beirut's southern suburbs Sunday morning shortly after the Israeli army issued an evacuation warning, Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA) reported. Among the raids, two targeted the vicinity of a church opposite Saint George Hospital in the Hadath area, two more targeted and destroyed a 12-story residential building near a church in the Chiyah area, and the fifth destroyed a building in the Burj al-Barajneh area, the NNA reported. The report did not specify the casualties involved in the raids. Shortly before the raids, Israeli army spokesman Avichay Adraee issued a warning on social media platform X, asking residents in mapped buildings in the above-mentioned areas to evacuate. The Israeli army has intensified its raids in the past few days on various areas in Beirut's southern suburbs that allegedly belong to Hezbollah, causing great destruction and heavy material losses. Throughout Saturday, Israeli warplanes launched four waves of raids, totaling 18, on areas of Haret Hreik, Ghobeiry, Burj Al-Barajneh, Chiyah, Bir Al-Abd, Al-Jamous, and Al-Kafaat, the NNA reported. Meanwhile, Lebanese military sources, who spoke anonymously, told Xinhua news agency that Israeli infantry forces advanced about 3-5 km into southern Lebanon on Sunday at dawn, managing to take control again of part of Lebanon's southern town of Khiam. Israeli forces, including dozens of soldiers, tanks, and a bulldozer, crossed the Blue Line at around 2 a.m. local time (0000 GMT), reaching the southeastern edge of Khiam, a key Hezbollah stronghold on the eastern side of the border area in southern Lebanon, they said. Hezbollah said Sunday in separate statements that it targeted with rocket barrages a gathering of Israeli vehicles and forces in the area of al-Umrah, the town of Sarda, the village of Kafr Kila, and the Israeli town of Metula, all surrounding Khiam. It added that it also ambushed and was clashing with an Israeli force advancing on the eastern outskirts of southwestern Lebanon's village of Chamaa, causing injuries among the Israeli force. The Israeli army reached the eastern edge of Khiam on October 29, stayed there for three days, and was then forced to retreat behind the borderline, according to media reports. Since September 23, the Israeli army has leveled up its air attack on Lebanon in an escalation of conflict with Hezbollah. In early October, Israel initiated a ground operation across its northern border into Lebanon. According to the Lebanese health ministry, the death toll from Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon since the beginning of the war on October 8, 2023, has reached 3,452, with injuries up to 14,664. Mumbai, Nov 17 : BJP spokesperson Prem Shukla, in an exclusive conversation with IANS on Sunday, shared his views on various issues. He raised questions on Rahul Gandhi's comments about Balasaheb Thackeray and the Congress party's alleged anti-Dalit stance. Shukla also commented on the controversy surrounding a rally by BJP leader and former MP Navneet Kaur Rana. Reacting to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi remembering Balasaheb Thackeray, Prem Shukla said that while he is recalling Thackeray, he is not showing the grace to pay tribute. According to Shukla, Rahul's remembrance is out of compulsion. He added that if Rahul Gandhi is truly recalling Balasaheb Thackeray, he should also remember his words. Shukla cited a statement from December 2000, where Balasaheb Thackeray had said that if Muslims' voting rights were ever taken away, political parties like Congress would never approach him. Thackeray had also warned that those issuing fatwas would one day "devour" the country. Shukla further recalled how Thackeray had repeatedly said that he would never allow his Shiv Sena to become like Congress, even if it meant closing down his party, but would never allow Congress to join his fold. He advised Rahul Gandhi to not only remember Balasaheb Thackeray but also reflect on his teachings. On the statement made by senior Congress leader Nitin Raut, who claimed that when Vilasrao Deshmukh was Chief Minister, he was denied a cabinet position for saying aJai Bhima, Shukla said this highlighted the Congress party's true nature. He accused Congress of always being hostile towards Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, noting that it was the Congress which denied Ambedkar a chance to speak in Parliament and worked to ensure that his funeral pyre was not lit in Delhi. The BJP leader concluded that the Congress party that reacted negatively to the slogan aJai Bhima was definitely opposed to the Dalit community and to Babasaheb Ambedkar. Shukla commented on the commotion during Navneet Ranaas rally, where chairs were thrown by unruly elements. He strongly condemned such behaviour, stating that such individuals should face strict action. Dehradun, Nov 17 : Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla attended the annual function of The TonsBridge school here on Sunday as the chief guest and admired the performance of the students and various initiatives taken by the school. The event commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the Lok Sabha Speaker and environmentalist Padma Bhushan Anil Joshi. ITBP soldiers mesmerised the audience with a band performance on the occasion. The Speaker also paid tribute to the statue of India's first CDS, General Bipin Rawat, and planted a sapling on the school's premises. He participated in a Havan ceremony and also honoured students for their achievements. Om Birla said whenever he visits Uttarakhand, he feels a renewed sense of energy and inspiration to work. He said that student life is the most precious and golden phase of one's life, during which individuals not only live their lives but also shape their future careers. He also remarked that teachers dedicate their lives to students' better futures, and the school's management is instilling good values in the students. "A good start with quality knowledge and values at school leads to a better life," he added. Speaking about the statue of General Bipin Rawat, Birla said that it inspires discipline and patriotism. He noted that from soldiers to officers, many people in this land serve the nation with the desire that every student in Dehradun grows into a disciplined and patriotic youth. He also acknowledged Dr. Anil Joshi for his environmental activism, especially his efforts to create a national movement for saving water, forests, and land. Birla urged the students to embrace an environmentally conscious lifestyle, conserve water, and live in harmony with nature. The Speaker expressed his pride in India's youth, who possess incredible abilities in knowledge, science, research, and spirituality. He said that while India is advancing rapidly in material resources, it is its spiritual, cultural, and ethical values that are driving the country to lead the world. He also underlined the significant contributions of India's youth in the development of the nation. Birla urged the students to view challenges as opportunities, stating that the key to success lies in cultivating values and education that ensure the 21st century becomes India's century. He said the responsibility to realise this vision lies with the youth. He also highlighted the inspiring life of former President APJ Abdul Kalam, who, despite humble beginnings, made significant contributions to science and technology, elevating India's stature on the global stage. Birla encouraged the students to visit the Parliament to learn about the lives of freedom fighters who contributed to India's independence and the nation's progress, adding that understanding their experiences would provide great inspiration. He further proposed that every student in India should visit Parliament to see firsthand how India's democratic journey has been shaped over the past 75 years through strong leadership. Speaker Om Birla expressed his happiness that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, 'India is playing a leading role in the world'. "The trust in India has increased globally due to the Prime Minister's leadership, and the country is progressing in every sphere," he said. Also present at the event were environmentalist Padma Bhushan Anil Joshi, The TonsBridge School Chairman Vijay Nagar, Director Shailendra Benjamin, Principal Bela Sehgal, Geeta Khanna, Chairperson State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, Uttarakhand and former CBSE regional officer Ranbir Singh. Imphal/Shillong, Nov 17 : Amidst renewed ethnic turmoil and violence in Manipur, the National People's Party (NPP), in a significant development, on Sunday announced it was withdrawing its support from the BJP-led government in the state. NPP's National President and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, in a letter to BJP President J.P. Nadda, said that his party has decided to withdraw its support to the Chief Minister N Biren-Singh-led government in Manipur with immediate effect. "The NPP would like to convey its deep concern over the prevailing law and order situation in the state of Manipur. In the last few days, we have seen the situation further deteriorate where many more innocent lives have been lost and people in the state are going through immense suffering. We strongly feel that the Manipur government under the leadership of Shri Biren Singh has completely failed to resolve the crisis and restore normalcy," the NPP supremo said in the letter. The NPP in Manipur has been facing a rift as seven MLAs were divided over continuing support to the BJP government. "As the people are against the BJP government in Manipur, our MLAs are also under tremendous pressure to raise their opposition against the state government," an NPP leader in Imphal said. The NPP has been supporting the BJP-led government in Manipur since it first came to power in Manipur in 2017 defeating the Congress. In the 2022 Assembly polls, the NPP secured seven seats in the 60-member house and continued to support the BJP-led government in the state. However, with the withdrawal of support by the NPP, the BJP government faces no imminent danger as the party has 32 legislators, and has support from the Janata Dal-United's six members, the Naga People's Front's five members and three Independent legislators. However, ever since the ethnic violence broke out in Manipur on May 3 last year, 10 tribal MLAs, including seven BJP legislators, have been boycotting the Assembly and demanding a separate administration or Union Territory for the tribals in Manipur. Meanwhile, with two MLAs, the BJP has been supporting the NPP-dominated Meghalaya Democratic Alliance government led by Chief Minister Sangma. New Delhi, Nov 17 : It was a shocking Sunday for Aam Aadmi Party supremo and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal after one of his trusted aides, Kailash Gahlot announced giving up the AAP. All the more distressing for Kejriwal are the reasons put up by Gahlot for resigning from the party. "Challenges from within, to the very values that brought us together to AAP. Political ambitions have overtaken our commitment towards people, leaving many promises unfulfilled," writes Gahlot in his resignation letter. This submission in the letter has come at a time when Kejriwal aims to make the Delhi Assembly election a kind of referendum on the cases he was arrested for. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, he directly asked Delhiites to vote for his party in order to keep him out of jail. The people reacted but gave the BJP all seven seats. Kejriwal, who had aimed to stir emotions with his jail victimhood talk, failed to get the aam aadmi by his side. On September 15, a Sunday again, he announced that he would resign as Delhi Chief Minister. Two days later he resigned and a few days later made Atishi the new Chief Minister. The aim of the resignation step was to exhibit moral high ground and garner public sympathy. Kejriwal's exit as Delhi Chief Minister was supposed to be a masterstroke to be followed by the required buildup by his ministers, leaders and workers. However, even as the momentum could lead to the flight, Gahlot's resignation has come in handy for the opposition in Delhi politics. Gahlot was in charge of key portfolios in the state government, including Home, transport, IT and Women and Child Development. Therefore, when he says that there is something wrong, then Kejriwal is in serious trouble. Gahlot's views cannot be brushed aside because he is not a dissatisfied politician. He had all the power after rising quickly in the party hierarchy. He was elected as an MLA in February 2015 and was appointed a Cabinet Minister in 2017. What Gahlot has mentioned in the letter has been widely known and the BJP has been flagging the issues for long. Whether it is Yamuna River pollution or the charge of 'Sheesh Mahal', Gahlot has been candid in presenting his views. He writes, "Take for example the YAMUNA, which we had promised to transform into a clean river, but never got around to doing it. Now the Yamuna River is perhaps even more polluted than ever before. Apart from this, now there are many embarrassing and awkward controversies like the 'SHEESHMAHAL', which are now making everyone doubt whether we still believe in being the AAM AADMI." Kejriwal has refused to react to Gahlot's resignation, but AAP leader Durgesh Pathak has said Kailash Gahlot "was being questioned and raided by ED and Income Tax for monthsand had no choice". How Gahlot's resignation and charges can impact the AAP prospectus in Delhi politics is something to be seen. The opposition BJP and the Congress will surely use his submissions to attack Kejriwal. Gahlot is one among a series of leaders who were close to Kejriwal but moved out for various reasons. Kejriwal's 'style' of working saw his close friends, like Yogendra Yadav, Prashant Bhushan, Kumar Vishwas, Mayank Gandhi and several others, losing favour and finally leaving the party which they had helped to form. These leaders have said that Kejriwal "is autocratic and not democratic" certainly a quality that does not go with the Mango Man image. For Kejriwal, who claimed that the party was based on the principles of transparency, most activities have not been so transparent. And the alleged excise police scam case is a pointer to this. The ED, which arrested him in connection with the probe in the alleged case, has called him the 'kingpin'. And, Gahlot's reasons for leaving as cited in his letter are a pointer to his closed style of working. Thirteen years ago, he began with the Lokpal movement for an ombudsman to look into complaints of corruption against government officials. But today this former government official and ex-Chief Minister of Delhi is on bail after being in jail on corruption charges. Years ago, he said, "Without jumping into the system, it will be impossible to clean up the system. We are going to challenge this system." He did jump into the system but the glitter of power was perhaps too strong and today his image is sullied. Kejriwal may have plans to get back AAP with a resounding win in the Delhi Assembly elections so as to validate his victimhood, but his close aides are spilling the beans. (Deepika Bhan can be contacted at deepika.b@ians.in) Abuja, Nov 17 : Lauding the Indian community's contribution to the development of Nigeria, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asserted that Indians never forget their values even while pursuing the global common good. "You all have not only given your hard work and effort to Nigeria, but also your hearts to Nigeria. The Indian community here has always stood by Nigeria in both its joys and sorrows... There are many Indian doctors here who are serving the people of Nigeria," said PM Modi while interacting with the Indian diaspora at a community event in Abuja before wrapping up his State Visit to the West African nation - the first by an Indian PM in 17 years. "Even if we go to other countries, we never forget our values that serve the greater good. We are those people who have lived for centuries with values that consider the whole world as one family. For us, the entire world is one family. the pride you have brought to Indian culture in Nigeria is evident everywhere. Yoga is becoming increasingly popular among the people here..." he added. The 60-000 strong Indian diaspora in Nigeria is the largest in West Africa, ensuring people-to-people contact between the two countries for decades. PM Modi met hundreds of Indians immediately after holding bilateral discussions with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, following which he was conferred the national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON). Prime Minister Modi is the first foreign leader to be conferred with the Nigerian national honour since 1969. "President Tinubu has honoured me with Nigeria's National Award. This honour belongs to the people of India. This honour belongs to all of you - Indians living here in Nigeria," he stated. PM Modi asserted that stepping out of the comfort zone, innovating and creating new paths has now become the very essence of today's India. "In the past decade, India has added nearly two trillion dollars to its GDP. In just 10 years, the size of Indiaas economy has doubled. Today, India is the fifth-largest economy in the world... We often hear that those who step out of their comfort zones are the ones who achieve something big. Now, you donat need me to explain this to you because youave already made it this far. Today, India and its youth are moving forward with this very spirit. Thatas why India is rapidly growing in new sectors today. Indiaas startup ecosystem, which you may not have heard of 10-15 years ago, is thriving," he told the large gathering. A confident India, said PM Modi, has embarked on a new journey with the ultimate goal of building a 'Viksit Bharat'. As the bilateral trade between India and Nigeria continues to grow, reaching about $15 billion, PM Modi mentioned the strong presence of Indians and the Indian companies in Nigeria that are involved in a variety of sectors. The PM mentioned that whenever a challenge arises anywhere in the world, India rises as the first responder to extend its support. At the same, he highlighted that over the years, India has made every possible effort to raise Africaas voice on global platforms. "Gandhiji spent a long time in Africa. He shared a deep bond with the people of Africa. During the era of slavery, both the people of India and Nigeria left no stone unturned in their struggle for independence. When India gained independence, it also inspired Nigeriaas own movement for freedom. Today, India and Nigeria are moving forward together, like comrades from the days of struggle. India is the mother of democracy, and Nigeria is the largest democracy in Africa," he said. This was also PM Modi's first visit to the West African region. The Nigerian President had visited India last year for the G20 Summit as a guest country at PM Modi's invitation that eventually also paved the way for the African nation to participate in the upcoming G20 Summit in Brazil as an invitee country. Afghan children are seen at a refugee camp in Kabul, capital of Afghanistan, Nov. 4, 2024.(Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua) KABUL, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- Surrounded by children playing on a dusty patch of ground at a makeshift camp on the outskirts of Kabul, Mir Hamza, a recently returned refugee, spoke with joy about his decision to come back to Afghanistan. The restoration of security in his homeland, he said, inspired him to return. "I am so happy that I cannot even express my feelings. This is my country, and I can move around freely, day and night, without fear. No one disturbs me," said Hamza, who had spent years in Iran before returning to the country long scarred by conflict. Temporarily settled in the makeshift camp before continuing to his home province of Kunduz, Hamza expressed his need for support to rebuild his life. "I need assistance to construct a house and start fresh," he said. However, poverty and unemployment could impede his recovery. "I had a home in Kunduz, but it was destroyed during the war. I need land to build a house, and I need food and clothing," he added, noting the approaching winter and the urgent need for humanitarian assistance for returnees. Decades of war and civil strife have forced millions of Afghans to flee their homeland, with many seeking refuge in neighboring Iran and Pakistan. While reports indicate that approximately 1.8 million Afghan refugees have returned to their homeland over the past year, an estimated 7 million Afghans remain abroad. Mohammad Jan Noori, another recent returnee who lived in Iran for years, also expressed his satisfaction with the improved security in Afghanistan. "Security is everything," Noori said. "Afghanistan is now a peaceful country, there is no war. I can live my life peacefully. I am overjoyed to be back." Speaking outside his tent at the returnee camp, Noori detailed the challenges of resettling. "I was given 27,000 afghani (about 400 U.S. dollars) when I crossed the border in Herat. But after paying for transportation and food, I only have 7,000 afghani (about 103 dollars) left," he said. Acknowledging the difficulties faced by returnees, Abdul Mutalib Haqqani, spokesman for the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation, said that between 300 and 350 Afghan refugees return from Pakistan and Iran daily. The government, in coordination with aid organizations, provides returnees with cash assistance and winter kits. "We have established 45 townships in 28 provinces to accommodate returnees," Haqqani told Xinhua. "We call on aid agencies to help construct houses, clinics, and schools in these townships. We also encourage Afghan refugees abroad to come back, as the country is now safe and peaceful." Despite the challenges of rebuilding, the hope brought by peace is encouraging many Afghans to return and reclaim their lives in their homeland. New Delhi, Nov 17 : Congress leader Udit Raj, in a conversation with IANS on Sunday, shared his views on various issues, including pollution in Delhi and the statements made by renowned spiritual speaker Devkinandan Thakur. On the issue of pollution in Delhi, Udit Raj commented on Farooq Abdullah's suggestion that the capital should be shifted from Delhi. He said that the ongoing tussle between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the BJP-led central government was causing difficulties for the public. Both parties keep accusing each other, and if they are kept away from the government and Congress comes to power, Delhi will become cleaner and better. He recalled how diesel buses used to run in Delhi but Congress, when in power, converted all buses to CNG. Regarding Devkinandan Thakur's suggestion to create a Sanatan board, Udit Raj supported the idea of setting up a board to preserve the Sanatan tradition. He also commented on the growing trend of sending children abroad for education and suggested that these children should be brought back. He questioned why parents didn't prefer sending their children to traditional Gurukuls and following the ancient educational system. On Union Minister Nitin Gadkari's statement that Congress had changed the Constitution during Indira Gandhi's time, Udit Raj questioned why Gadkari raised this point during the Maharashtra Assembly elections. He argued that the real question should be what the current government has done for the poor, employment, and healthcare. Commenting on the Emergency period, Udit Raj said that everyone knows it was a tragic happening, and questioned whether people wanted to live in the present or dwell in the past. He slammed the current Modi government, stating that apart from Nitin Gadkari, the entire cabinet was ineffective. Regarding Congress leader Nitin Raut's statement that he was removed from the cabinet in the previous government for saying "Jai Bhim," Udit Raj stated that significant changes had taken place since Rahul Gandhi came to the party. He noted that some individuals had been reprimanded, and emphasised that Congress had always worked to honour B.R. Ambedkar and the party is now rectifying its past mistakes. --IANS brt/dan New Delhi, Nov 17 : The government on Sunday held discussions with a high-level delegation from the US on establishing an offshore Johns Hopkins University Campus in India. Union Minister for Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, met the 12-member delegation led by Baltimore (Maryland)-based Johns Hopkins University (JHU) President Ronald J. Daniels. The delegation also included officials from Gupta Klinsky India Institute (GKII), an internal unit of JHU with a mandate to bring the JHU community with Indian partners through research, education, policy and practice. Union Minister Pradhan highlighted the transformative opportunities enabled by the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020), which has paved the way for academic collaborations and advancing Indiaas education sector. He also hailed the universityas commitment towards building robust partnerships with Indian Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), contributing to the global exchange of knowledge, particularly in the areas of dual and joint degree programmes, two-way mobility of students and faculty, and research partnerships in emerging fields like data science, artificial intelligence (AI) and futuristic technologies. The minister also emphasised the potential for these collaborations to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among students in both nations. The discussion centred on strengthening academic and research collaborations between JHU and premier Indian HEIs. "The delegationas visit highlights the growing significance of India-US educational cooperation," said the Ministry of Education. As part of their multi-city tour, the delegation will visit various Indian university campuses and engage with key government officials, academic leaders, and embassy representatives to strengthen JHUas operations in India and advance the internationalisation efforts. Prominent Indian-origin faculty from JHU, such as Mathuram Santosham, Professor of Paediatrics and International Health, and Chirag Parikh, Professor of Medicine and Director of the Division of Nephrology, also participated in the discussion. The delegation also included GKII officials and members of its advisory board, including Raj and Kamla Gupta, Deepak Raj, Kunal Pal, and Neetisha Besra, according to the ministry. New Delhi, Nov 17 : A public interest litigation (PIL) has been filed before the Supreme Court seeking direction to the Centre to fill the vacancies in the Debts Recovery Tribunals (DRTs) across the country. The plea said that out of 39 Debts Recovery Tribunals in the country, nearly one-third, i.e. 11 DRTs have vacancies, as of September 30, 2024. Though as early as September last year, a circular, showing that the above vacancies in the DRTs, would be arising in 2023-2024 was floated, to date, no appointment has been made, the petition said. It cautioned that no timely steps to commence the selection process for the anticipated vacancies are being taken and this delay would entail a situation where more DRTs will turn non-functional in future. "While the primary and principal object of the constitution of the DRTs, as provided for in the preamble to the Recovery of Debts and Bankruptcy Act, 1993 (RDB Act) is 'for expeditious adjudication and recovery of debts due to banks and financial institutions', the said object gets defeated and frustrated in case the DRTs remain non-functional due to non-filling up of the post of Presiding Officers," said the petition filed through advocate Sudarshan Rajan. It further complained that instead of filling up the vacancies, the Centre resorted to giving additional charge of the vacant DRT to a DRT situated in a neighbouring state, causing practical difficulties to lawyers and decelerating the disposal of the other DRT as well. The petition said that in view of the additional charge given to such DRT, only urgent matters are taken up and normal matters are not considered, thus increasing the case pendency. While the RDB Act provides a specific time schedule ranging from 60 to 180 days, the petition said that many DRTs remain non-functional due to non-appointment of Presiding Officers beyond the specified time range. The PIL seeks a direction to the Centre to take necessary action on a war footing basis to fill up the vacancies in the DRTs across the country, saying that the failure to fill up the vacancies is a direct infringement upon constitutional as well as statutory provisions. Abuja, Nov 17 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday evening departed Nigeria for Brazil to attend the G20 Summit, highlighting his "productive visit" to the west African powerhouse. "PM @narendramodi emplanes for Brazil after concluding a productive visit to Nigeria," the PMO said in a post on X. Ahead of his departure, PM Modi, in a post on X, said: "Thank you Nigeria for a productive visit, which will add speed and vigour to India-Nigeria friendship". Earlier, PM Modi and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu agreed to work together to meet the development aspirations of the Global South and, at the same time, further strengthen the India-Nigeria Strategic Partnership. The two leaders had a restricted meeting followed by delegation-level talks at Abuja's Aso Rock Villa, which serves as the office and residence of the Nigerian Presidency. "Had a very productive discussion with President Tinubu. We talked about adding momentum to our strategic partnership. There is immense scope for ties to flourish even further in sectors like defence, energy, technology, trade, health, education and more," PM Modi posted on X after the bilateral discussions. Tinubu acknowledged India's efforts to amplify the concerns of developing countries through the Voice of the Global South Summits. "Expressing satisfaction at the progress of ties, they agreed that there was immense potential for collaboration in the fields of trade, investment, education, energy, health, culture, and people-to-people ties. The Prime Minister offered Indiaas experience in agriculture, transportation, affordable medicine, renewable energy, and digital transformation to Nigeria," read a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). "President Tinubu appreciated the development cooperation partnership offered by India and its meaningful impact in creating local capacities, skills, and professional expertise. The two leaders also discussed enhancing defence and security cooperation. They reaffirmed their commitment to jointly fighting terrorism, piracy and radicalisation," it added. PM Modi while addressing the Indian community in Nigeria, asserted that Indians never forget their values even while pursuing the global common good. "You all have not only given your hard work and effort to Nigeria but also your hearts to Nigeria. The Indian community here has always stood by Nigeria in both its joys and sorrows... There are many Indian doctors here who are serving the people of Nigeria," said PM Modi while interacting with the Indian diaspora at a community event in Abuja before wrapping up his State Visit to the West African nation - the first by an Indian PM in 17 years. "Even if we go to other countries, we never forget our values that serve the greater good. We are those people who have lived for centuries with values that consider the whole world as one family. For us, the entire world is one family. the pride you have brought to Indian culture in Nigeria is evident everywhere. Yoga is becoming increasingly popular among the people here..." he added. The 60-000 strong Indian diaspora in Nigeria is the largest in West Africa, ensuring people-to-people contact between the two countries for decades. Nigeria also conferred the national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his first official visit to the country while emphasising that India has positioned itself as a global powerhouse under PM Modi's visionary leadership. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu honoured PM Modi after their bilateral meeting held at Abuja's Aso Rock Villa which serves as the office and residence of the Nigerian Presidency. The award citation notes that under PMas visionary leadership, India has been positioned as a global powerhouse and his transformative governance has fostered unity, peace and shared prosperity for all. PM Modi thanked President Tinubu and the people of Nigeria for the honour, which he dedicated to the people of India and to the longstanding friendship between India and Nigeria. "Honoured to be conferred with the aGrand Commander of the Order of the Nigera Award by Nigeria. I accept it with great humility and dedicate it to the people of India," said PM Modi. The Indian PM is the first foreign leader to be conferred with this award since 1969 when Queen Elizabeth received Nigeria's highest national honour. Srinagar, Nov 17 : A terror associate was arrested by the security forces in J&K's Baramulla district while a terrorist hideout was busted in the Shopian district on Sunday. Officials said that a terrorist associate identified as Showkat Ahmad Bhat of Naganad D. H. Pora of Kulgam district was arrested with arms and ammunition at Janbazpora-Binner road in Baramulla. "One AK-47 rifle, one AK magazine, 20 live rounds and other ammunition were recovered from the arrested terrorist associate. Security forces also busted a hideout of terrorists in the forest area of the Shopian district. The operation was jointly carried out by the army, police and the CRPF which led to the recovery of ration supplies and utensils from the hideout, indicating its possible use as a shelter by the terrorists," officials said. Security forces have been directed by the J&K L-G to go for hot pursuit of terrorists and their ecosystem in the aftermath of a number of dastardly attacks carried out across J&K by the terrorists. Terrorists have carried out a number of attacks across J&K during the recent days and in a disturbing development, the terrorists have made their presence felt in areas believed to have been completely cleared of any terrorist footprint. One of the most serious terrorist attacks was carried out on October 20 in the Gagangir area of Ganderbal district where an infrastructure project company is building a tunnel to make Srinagar-Sonamarg an all-weather road. Two terrorists, a foreign mercenary and a local, entered the workers' camp in Gagangir and fired indiscriminately killing six non-local workers and a local doctor. Four non-local workers of the company were injured in that attack. Sonamarg and the entire Ganderbal district had been claimed to have been completely cleared of any terrorist presence for over five years before the dastardly attack took place at Gagangir. On October 24, terrorists attacked an army vehicle in the Botapathri area of Gulmarg ski resort killing three army soldiers and two civilian porters. Security forces said the group of terrorists responsible for the Botapathri attack had entered the higher reaches of Gulmarg after crossing the line of control (LoC) in August 2024 and had now been ordered to start attacks against the army and civilians by terror handlers in Pakistan. In another terrorist attack on November 10 in the Kishtwar district of the Jammu division, terrorists killed a junior commissioned officer (JCO) of the elite Para commando force during an anti-terrorist operation in the Chaas area of Kishtwar. Terrorists killed a 41-year-old woman and injured 11 other persons on November 3 when they hurled a grenade at the busy Sunday pavement market in the tourist reception centre area of Srinagar city. A 41-year-old woman, Abida, mother of three children, injured in this grenade attack, later succumbed to critical splinter injuries in the hospital. Police later claimed to have apprehended three locals responsible for the grenade attack from the Ikhrajpora locality of Srinagar city. --IANS sq/dan Jammu, Nov 17 : J&K Lt Governor, Manoj Sinha, has said that the focus of the security forces should be the complete elimination of the terror ecosystem. Chairing a top-level security meeting here on Sunday, the Lt Governor said that the complete elimination of terrorism and the terror ecosystem is the only way forward for the development of the Union Territory. "Exemplary action must be taken against those aiding and abetting terrorism and its ecosystem. Our police and the security forces should not rest until terrorism is wiped out from the UT," Sinha asserted. The meeting also reviewed various developmental projects and the security scenario in J&K. He emphasised project implementation and constant supervision to ensure speedy completion. He told the officers that their focus on the elimination of terrorism and the terror ecosystem would be their greatest contribution not only to the security of the region but also to its development. He advised various deputy commissioners to monitor the saturation of beneficiary-oriented schemes. The meeting was attended by the chief secretary, Atal Dulloo, DGP, Nalin Prabhat, ADGP Jammu, Anand Jain, all deputy commissioners and SSPs of the Jammu division. L-G Manoj Sinha has directed the security forces to go for hot pursuit of the terrorists in the aftermath of some dastardly attacks carried out by the terrorists. Terrorists have carried out a number of attacks across J&K during the recent days and in a disturbing development, the terrorists have made their presence felt in areas believed to have been completely cleared of any terrorist footprint. One of the most serious terrorist attacks was carried out on October 20 in the Gagangir area of Ganderbal district where an infrastructure project company is building a tunnel to make Srinagar-Sonamarg an all-weather road. Two terrorists, a foreign mercenary and a local, entered the workers' camp in Gagangir and fired indiscriminately killing six non-local workers and a local doctor. Four non-local workers of the company were also injured in the attack. Sonamarg and the entire Ganderbal district had been claimed to have been completely cleared of any terrorist presence for over 5 years before the dastardly attack took place at Gagangir. On October 24, terrorists attacked an army vehicle in the Botapathri area of Gulmarg ski resort killing three army soldiers and two civilian porters. Security forces said the group of terrorists responsible for the Botapathri attack had entered the higher reaches of Gulmarg after crossing the line of control (LoC) in August 2024 and had now been ordered to launch attacks against the army and the civilians by terror handlers in Pakistan. In another terrorist attack on November 10 in the Kishtwar district of the Jammu division, terrorists killed a junior commissioned officer (JCO) of the elite Para commando force during an anti-terrorist operation in the Chaas area of Kishtwar. Terrorists killed a 41-year-old woman and injured 11 other persons on November 3 when they hurled a grenade at the busy Sunday pavement market in the tourist reception centre area of Srinagar city. Police later claimed to have apprehended three locals responsible for the grenade attack from the Ikhrajpora locality of Srinagar city. L-G Manoj Sinha said after the grenade attack that each drop of innocent blood spilled by the terrorists would be avenged. Sinha has ordered a proactive hot pursuit of terrorists, terror associates and terror sympathisers. Sunday's meeting chaired by the Lt Governor in Jammu is to review the latest security scenario and take stock of the progress of anti-terrorist operations in the UT. Find a great selection of commercial real estate, manufactured homes, timeshares and more for Sale Buy real estate. Find a great selection of commercial real estate, manufactured homes, timeshares and more for Sale in US and Canada. Search Real Estate MANILA, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines has sent its first shipment of Hass avocados to Japan, Philippine Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel said Sunday. The Philippines becomes the first Asian country to export Hass avocados to Japan, said Tokyo-based Agriculture Attache Aleli Maghirang. "This provides local producers with an excellent opportunity to capitalize on Japan's growing demand for fresh fruits." Glenn Panganiban, director of the Bureau of Plant Industry, said it took over a decade to secure access to Japan's market for Hass avocados. The Hass variety of the avocado, favored for its smaller size and pebbly skin that turns purplish-black when ripe, has become popular globally as the main nutritional ingredient for salad and sandwiches. Nine Kashmiris were arrested in a joint operation of the Ahilyanagar (formerly Ahmednagar) police in Maharashtra and Military Intelligence, Sothern Command. Image used for for representational purposes only. Photograph: ANI Photo Nine rifles as well as 58 live cartridges were allegedly seized from them, an official said on Sunday. The probe began after reliable information was received about some persons hailing from Jammu and Kashmir taking up jobs as security guards in cities in Maharashtra and carrying weapons with fake licences, the official said. As part of the investigation, letters were sent to authorities in Jammu and Kashmir to check the authenticity of these weapon licences and raids were carried out after confirmation was received about these not being genuine, he added. Raids led to nine persons being arrested in Ahilyanagar with nine 12-bore rifles and 58 bullets, the official said. They hail from Rajouri in Jammu. He identified them as Shabbir Mohammad Iqbal Hussain Gujjar (38), Mohammad Saleem alias Salem Gul Mohammad (32), Mohammad Safraj Nazir Hussain (24), Jehangir Zakir Hussain (28), Shahbaz Ahmed Nazir Hussain (33), Surjit Rameshchandra Singh, Abdul Rashid Chidia (38), Tufel Ahmed Mohammed Gazia and Sher Ahmed Ghulam Hussain. "Sher Ahmed Ghulam Hussain is the main facilitator of the racket and took Rs 50,000 each to provide 12-bore rifles and their fake licences to ensure the accused got jobs as security guards. These persons were working as security guards in Shrigonda in Ahilyanagar, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Pune etc," the official said. A case was registered at Tofkhana police station under Arms Act and further probe into the racket is underway, he added. The Bharatiya Janata Party in Karnataka on Sunday claimed that the Lokayukta probe cleared the party's previous government from 40 percent commission charges, and that the allegations levelled by the Congress against it as completely "false". IMAGE: Karnataka ex-Chief Minister and BJP leader Basavaraj Bommai (left) stands in a queue to cast his vote for the Shiggaon assembly by-polls, in Shiggaon, Karnataka, November 13, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo The BJP leaders said that it is proved that the 40 percent commission allegation was part of the Congress' "tool kit". During the 2023 assembly polls, the then Opposition Congress had used the Karnataka State Contractors' Association 40 percent commission charge as a major weapon to corner the then BJP government, which is said to be one among the factors that led to the saffron party's debacle in the election. "...it is proved that the 40 percent commission allegation made against BJP is false. We have come out of it...Congress using the (the then) state contractors' association president Kempanna and vice president as its tool kit, had alleged that the government was taking 40 percent commission. A case was registered based on that, and the truth has now come out," Leader of Opposition R Ashoka said. Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, he said the contractor (R Ambikapathy), who had made allegations against the then government and had claimed to have given the commission, had in fact not worked as a contractor for six years. "So this contractor and other unemployed contractors became part of a Congress tool kit and made allegations against the Basavaraj Bommai government calling us 40 percent Sarakara (government). BJP workers questioned us about the allegations, today they are happy that this was bogus and a tool kit of Congress and Siddaramaiah (then Leader of Opposition)," he alleged. Reacting to BJP's claims, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that he has not yet seen the report and noted that in several cases acquittal happens, for want of evidence. Pointing out that the Congress government was unable to prove the charges in the last sixteen months after coming to power, Ashoka further said they have not submitted the documents in the High Court, where the case is on. "...Now the Lokayuukta has given the clean chit stating that when one has not worked as a contractor for six years, where is the question of giving a commission...." he said. The current Siddaramaiah-led Congress government is "60 percent commission government," Ashoka further alleged and said, "We have given evidence for our allegation, but they (Congress) had not, when they made allegations against BJP". He citied Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation scam, MUDA scam, among others, and hit out at Siddaramaiah. Veteran BJP leader and former CM B S Yediyurappa, speaking to reporters in Shivamogga, said, "Lokayukta probe itself has said it (allegations were false). I appeal to them (Congress leaders) to speak carefully hereon, understanding that making such false allegations is of no use." In Hubballi, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said the ruling Congress should apologise for making false allegations. "We have been saying since the beginning that the 40 percent commission allegation is false. Now Lokayukta is said to have come to the conclusion and has prepared a report. I have seen media reports on it...," he said. Speaking to reporters in Bagalkote, Siddaramaiah said that based on the then contractors' association president Kepanna's allegations, Congress too had made charges against the then government. "I have not seen the report yet. After looking at it, I will comment...in many cases due to lack of evidence, cases will get dismissed, but that does not mean that the crime has not taken place. Wrong might have happened, but it did not get proved," he said. Stating that he was also a lawyer, the CM said, "In several cases, acquittal happens for want of evidence, because basic principle under the criminal procedure code and criminal jurisprudence -- the benefit of doubt should go to the accused person, not the complainant." Earlier, home minister G Parameshwara in Bengaluru said he was not aware of the basis of such claims by the BJP. Hitting back at the BJP, the minister said it is wrong to say that Congress came to power only because of the 40 percent commission campaign against the then BJP government, as there were also guarantee schemes among other things. "It may be BJP's claim that Congress came to power by constantly levelling 40 percent commission charge against the previous BJP government. "The then state contractors' association president Kempanna, who is now no more, had written to the PM alleging corruption and 40 percent commission was being collected, during the BJP government. Based on it, Congress as a party, in the interest of the people, had taken up the issue," he added. A dispute between two Hindu groups, the Himalayan Brahmo Samaj and the Ramakrishna Mission Ashram, in Shimla resulted in injuries to seven people, including three police personnel. Image used for representational purposes only. Photograph: ANI Photo The clash occurred after members of the Brahmo Samaj entered the ashram premises to perform prayers, which the ashram members objected to. The premises of the Ramakrishna Mission Ashram, located within the Brahmo Samaj property near the Vidhan Sabha was also damaged in the conflict, they said. The group wished to continue their prayers into the night, but the members of the Ramakrishna Mission Ashram, who are in possession of the premises, objected, citing their they wished to close the ashram for the night, Gandhi said. Anticipating a possible takeover attempt, as there is an ongoing dispute over the ownership of the property reported worth crores, the ashram authorities called the police and administration for assistance, said ashram office bearers. According to the SP, the issue it was a sensitive issue as it involved religious sentiments, hence police and administration were present at the spot, trying to mediate and attempting to resolve the matter. However, when the Himalayan Brahmo Samaj followers completed their prayers and agreed to leave on the condition that they will be allowed to perform prayers on Sunday, people gathered by the Ramakrishna Mission started pelting stones injuring seven people including three police personals, the SP said. Two FIRs have been registered against seven people including Sheetal Vyas, her husband ABVP leader Nitin Vyas, under sections 132 (assault against public servant discharging their duty), 121 (causing hurt to public servant), 221 (obstruction), 191 (unlawful assembly), 194 (2) (public fight disturbing peace) and 196 (2) (offence at place of worship) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the police said. Swami Tanmahimanand, secretary of the Ramakrishna Mission Ashram alleged that the property was handed over to the ashram by the Brahmo Samaj for religious purposes and that the mission has been residing there since 2014. Tanmahimanand said on Saturday, their gardner, who also looks after the ashram premises, and some union leaders held a conference in Kali Bari temple. Thereafter, they entered the ashram as devotees and performed puja, heard pravachan and when at 8:30 pm they wished to close the ashram, members of the Himalayan Brahmo Samaj raised slogans of '?Jai Brahmo, this is our temple and you have occupied it' and refused to vacate, he said. "Everyone has the right to perform puja but no one has the right to take possession of the ashram and our demand is that the people of Himalayan Brahmo Samaj should vacate the temple (ashram)", he added. Swami Ram Rupanand, co-secretary of the ashram said that an attempt was made to forcefully take possession of the temple and alleged that the administration and police remained a mute spectators to the incident. He also demanded a CBI inquiry into the incident. Trustee, Himalayan Brahmo Samaj, Shimla MR Sagroli said that a two-day Brahmo Samaj conference was held in Shimla and their members from across the country wanted to visit the temple (ashram) and they should be allowed to access. It is not a major dispute, he added. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday reviewed the security situation in Manipur and directed top officials to take all possible steps to ensure peace in the Northeastern state, sources said. Photograph: / Rediff.com IMAGE: Union Home Minister Amit Shah along with Jharkhand BJP president and party Dhanwar assembly seat candidate Babulal Marandi greet the gathering during a public meeting for the Jharkhand assembly elections, at Dhanwar in Giridih, Jharkhand, November 16, 2024. Shah held the meeting soon after he returned from Maharashtra after cancelling his election rallies there. The home minister reviewed the situation in Manipur with top security officials and directed them to take all possible steps to ensure peace, the sources said. Shah is expected to hold another detailed meeting with top officers on Monday and take further steps, they said. The move came as the situation in Manipur, which has been reeling from ethnic strife since May last year, continued to be volatile following protests and violence after the recovery of bodies of women and children. Irate mobs set ablaze the residences of three more Bharatiya Janata Party legislators, one of whom is a senior minister, and a Congress MLA in various districts of Imphal Valley even as security forces foiled an attempt to storm the ancestral residence of Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, officials said. The fresh incidents of violent protests took place on Saturday night even as an indefinite curfew was clamped after people, agitated by the killing of three women and three children by militants in Jiribam district, attacked the residences of three state ministers and six MLAs earlier on Saturday. Enraged people torched the houses of PWD Minister Govindas Konthoujam at Ningthoukhong, Hiyanglam's BJP MLA Y Radheshyam at Langmeidong Bazar, Wangjing Tentha's BJP MLA Paonam Brojen in Thoubal district and Khundrakpam's Congress MLA Th Lokeshwar in Imphal East district, the officials said. The legislators and their family members were not at home when the mob stormed their residential compounds, vandalised properties and set the houses on fire, police said, adding the houses were partially burnt in the incidents. The Manipur police on November 11 claimed 10 suspected militants were killed in a fierce gunfight with security forces after insurgents in camouflage uniforms and armed with sophisticated weapons fired indiscriminately at Borobekra Police Station and an adjacent CRPF camp at Jakuradhor in Jiribam district. Hours later, suspected militants allegedly abducted six civilians, including women and children, from the same district, police had claimed. On Saturday, the Union home ministry said that all security forces deployed in Manipur have been directed to take necessary steps to restore order and peace in the state where the situation remained "fragile" in the past few days. It said armed miscreants from both communities in conflict have been indulging in violence leading to unfortunate loss of lives and disruption in public order. The home ministry said strict action would be initiated against anyone trying to indulge in violent and disruptive activities. The Centre had on Thursday reimposed the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act in Manipur's six police station areas, including the violence-hit Jiribam. More than 220 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless in ethnic violence between Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and adjoining hills-based Kuki-Zo groups since May last year. It started after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the hill districts to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe status. The ethnically diverse Jiribam, which was largely untouched by the clashes in Imphal Valley and the adjoining hills, witnessed violence after the mutilated body of a farmer was found in a field in June this year. MANILA, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- Four people were killed and three others injured after a 16-wheeler truck hit motorcycles in the Philippine capital region on early Sunday, local authorities said. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority said the accident occurred at 4:39 a.m. local time in Pasig City, Metro Manila. Among the killed were a four-year-old boy and his parents on board a motorcycle, while the other one was the driver of another motorcycle. Police said that three other people were injured, two of whom sustained fractures in the arms and ribs. The driver of the truck, which was loaded with 1,000 sacks of rice, told the police that he lost his brakes, and the truck rammed into the motorcycles in front. The police have detained the truck driver. The Nagaland cabinet has decided to meet both the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak-Muivah and the Centre to push for a resolution to the Naga political dialogue. IMAGE: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio meets with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in New Delhi, July 20, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo This comes after the NSCN-IM threatened to return to the jungles due to delays in the resolution, and demanded third-party intervention. A delegation of Nagaland cabinet led by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and his deputies TR Zeliang and Y Patton are scheduled to leave for Delhi on Monday to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah to press for expediting the Naga political negotiations, the sources said In a statement, NSCN-IM general secretary Th Muivah has alleged that the Centre was "deliberately refusing" to honour the key provisions of the historic agreement, specifically the recognition of the "Naga national flag and constitution". Threatening "violent armed conflict", the NSCN-IM on November 7 sought a third-party intervention to address the impasse over the Naga political issue. The group, which has maintained ceasefire since 1997, accused the Centre of "betraying" the Framework Agreement signed on August 3, 2015. In an interview with a news channel on Saturday, Zeliang had said that a cabinet meeting held during the day had deliberated on Muivah's statement and, therefore, decided to meet the Union Home Minister and also the NSCN-IM leadership. On NSCN-IM seeking third-party intervention, Zeliang had said that unless there is an understanding between them (Centre and NSCM-IM), third-party intervention may not help them. "There should be a meeting point both sides should reconsider and come to an understanding," he had told the news channel. Sources said that before leaving for Delhi, the state cabinet is approaching the NSCN-IM leadership for deliberation. However, sources said that their meeting with both Centre and NSCN-IM leadership has not been scheduled. Sources also said that the state cabinet would also apprise the Union home minister about the decision of the September 12 consultative meeting of the state government with Naga tribal bodies and civil societies seeking the appointment of a proper interlocutor and also to elevate the ongoing Naga political dialogue to ministerial level. "The House appealed to the government of India to elevate the ongoing dialogue and peace process to the highest political level by appointing an interlocutor of political level or ministerial level, who has the confidence and mandate of the government," the meeting had resolved. Former Governor of Nagaland, RN Ravi was the last interlocutor for the talks but after being shifted to Tamil Nadu, the Centre appointed AK Mishra only as a representative. The Centre has been holding negotiations with NSCN-IM since 1997 following the ceasefire agreement and inked the Framework Agreement on August 3, 2015. It also started parallel talks with the Working Committee of Naga National Political Groups in 2017 and signed the Agreed Position the same year. The then interlocutor Ravi had "declared talks have concluded on October 30, 2019". However, the persistent demand of NSCN-IM for a separate flag and constitution for Nagas and integration of all Naga inhabited areas has not been accepted by the Centre, delaying the final solution. On the other hand, WC NNPGs, composed of seven Naga groups, have declared to accept whatever is possible for now and continue further negotiations for the remaining demand. The funeral of 10 Kuki-Zo youths, who were killed in an alleged gunfight with Central Reserve Police Force, will not be conducted till their post-mortem reports are handed over to the families, a leading organisation representing the community said on Sunday. IMAGE: The bodies of militants, who were killed in an encounter with CRPF were brought back to Churachandpur from Silchar Medical College and Hospital after conducting post-mortem, in Churachandpur, Manipur, November 16, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo The Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum, a key organisation of the Kuki-Zo community in Manipur, has convened an emergency meeting to decide its future course of action regarding the funeral of the 10 people, killed in Jiribam district. The Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum, a key organisation of the Kuki-Zo community in Manipur, has convened an emergency meeting to decide its future course of action regarding the funeral of the 10 people, killed in Jiribam district. "Today, we will have a meeting on how to proceed with the funeral. We have not received the post-mortem examination documents yet. Without those, we cannot touch the bodies because if we tamper with the bodies, there could be some legality issues," ITLF spokesperson Ginza Vualzong told PTI. Accordingly, the bodies have been kept in the local hospital morgue for the time being after their arrival here on Saturday, he added. The post-mortem examination of the 10 Kuki-Zo youths, who ITLF claimed were village volunteers against the Manipur government's assertion that they were militants, was conducted at Silchar Medical College and Hospital in Assam. "We are waiting for the documents. I don't know what is going on, may be the things are very fishy! If we do not receive the reports, then we will have to do the post-mortem examination here again. So, the burial will not take place soon unless all these formalities are done," Vualzong said. He said the Kuki organisation is exploring possibilities to conduct the autopsy again at Churachandpur District Hospital and a final decision will be taken during the meeting of the ITLF senior leaders. "If we receive the post-mortem examination reports in the meantime, experts in this field will carefully review the documents for any inconsistencies. The ITLF legal cell will take up all legal matters in this regard," Vualzong said. The Joint Philanthropic Organisation will collaborate with the Hmar Inpui to plan the burial programme for the youths, he added. The bodies of the youths were airlifted to Churachandpur from Assam's Silchar town on Saturday afternoon. SMCH authorities are yet to release the postmortem report of the youths, sources said. On Saturday in Silchar, police resorted to lathi-charge outside the SMCH as family members of the youths clashed with forces demanding that the bodies be handed over to them. The Assam police officials tried convincing them that the bodies would be handed over to Manipur Police and they could take up the matter with them. The agitated family members refused to accept the proposal and attacked police personnel and resorted to stone pelting, which injured several persons. They finally agreed to the proposal that both Manipur and the Assam police would airlift the bodies of the 10 youths to Churachandpur. Soon after, the bodies were airlifted and reached Churachandpur in the afternoon. The Manipur police on November 11 claimed 10 suspected militants were killed in a fierce gunfight with security forces after insurgents in camouflage uniforms and armed with sophisticated weapons fired indiscriminately at Borobekra Police Station and an adjacent CRPF camp at Jakuradhor in Jiribam district. The suspected militants allegedly abducted six civilians, including women and children from the same district, the police had claimed. More than 220 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless in ethnic violence between Imphal Valley-based Meiteis and adjoining hills-based Kuki-Zo groups since May last year. It started after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the hill districts to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe status. The ethnically diverse Jiribam, which was largely untouched by the clashes in Imphal Valley and the adjoining hills, witnessed violence after the mutilated body of a farmer was found in a field in June this year. Meiteis account for about 53 percent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley. Tribals -- Nagas and Kukis -- constitute little over 40 percent and reside in the hill districts. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned a "massive combined attack" launched by Russian forces, targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure, resulting in damaged facilities, power outages, and loss of life. IMAGE: A residential area that is heavily damaged by a Russian missile strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine in Odesa November 17, 2024. Photograph: Nina Liashonok/Reuters Zelenskyy further said that the assault occurred overnight and into the morning, and involved a barrage of approximately 120 missiles and 90 drones, including Shaheds, Zircons, Iskanders, and Kinzhals. Sharing a post on X, Zelenskyy wrote, "A massive combined attack targeted all regions of Ukraine. Overnight and this morning, Russian terrorists used various types of drones, including Shaheds, as well as cruise, ballistic, and aeroballistic missiles--Zircons, Iskanders, and Kinzhals. In total, approximately 120 missiles and 90 drones were launched. Our air defense forces destroyed over 140 aerial targets." "The enemy's target was our energy infrastructure across Ukraine. Unfortunately, some facilities sustained damage from direct hits and falling debris. In Mykolaiv, a drone attack killed two people and injured six others, including two children," the post added. Zelenskyy expressed his condolences to the families of the victims, and acknowledged the ongoing challenges, noting that some areas remain without power. "My deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims. As of now, some areas remain without power, but all necessary forces are working to mitigate the consequences and restore the infrastructure. We are grateful to all our air defense units that participated in repelling this attack: anti-aircraft missile forces, our aviation -- pilots of F16s, Su aircraft, and MiGs, mobile fire groups, and electronic warfare units--all worked together in an organized and coordinated manner. I thank them for their reliable protection," Zelesnkyy said. Meanwhile, a day earlier, Zelenskyy expressed optimism that US President-elect Donald Trump's administration could expedite the resolution of the ongoing war with Russia. Zelenskyy made the remarks during an interview with public broadcaster Suspilne, where he reflected on US-Ukraine relations and past discussions with Trump regarding the conflict, which began in 2022, Anadolu reported. Zelenskyy emphasised the alignment of Ukraine's position with Trump, stating, "He (Trump) has heard the basis on which we stand. I have not heard anything against our position." Addressing whether Trump had urged Ukraine to negotiate with Russia, Zelenskyy clarified, "We are an independent country. And we, during this war, both our people and I, personally, are in negotiations with the United States, with both Trump and Biden and with European leaders, proved that the 'sit and listen' rhetoric doesn't work with us." The Ukrainian leader shared his belief that the conflict could end sooner under Trump's leadership, citing the administration's pledge to prioritise swift resolution, reported Anadolu. "It is very important for us to have a just peace, so that we do not feel that we have lost our best people because of the injustice that has been imposed on us. The war will end, but there is no exact date. Certainly, with the policies of the team that will now lead the White House, the war will end sooner. This is their approach, their pledge to their public, and it is also very important to them," he added. Pratibha Pawar, wife of Nationalist Congress Partyt-Sharadchandra Pawar chief Sharad Pawar, was allegedly stopped from entering the premises of Baramati Hi-Tech Textiles Park in Pune district on Sunday for half an hour. This was informed by the office of Baramati MP Supriya Sule. IMAGE: NCP-SP candidate from Baramati seat Supriya Sule (right) along with her mother Pratibha Pawar (left) and other family members show their ink-marked fingers after casting their votes for the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections 2024, at Baramati in Pune, May 7, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo Notably, deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's wife and Rajya Sabha member Sunetra Pawar is the chairperson of the Baramati Hi-Tech Textiles Park, located in Baramati. A video shared by Supriya Sule's office shows female aides of Pratibha Pawar and Sule's daughter Revti Sule asking a security guard at the Park to open the gate as they wanted to do some purchasing. The guard told them he was instructed by one Anil Wagh to not open the gate. A male aide accompanying Pratibha Pawar and Revti Sule confirmed to PTI that they were not allowed to enter the premises for at least 30 minutes. When contacted, Textile Park chief manager Anil Wagh said he was not aware that Pratibha Pawar was supposed to visit the premises. "I was only told that a political rally would be arriving. As there was no permission for such a rally, I instructed security personnel at the gate to not allow any rally inside," Wagh claimed. "When I was told that Pratibha Kaki, as Pratibha Pawar is popularly known, had arrived, I immediately asked security guards to open the gate and allow them inside," he said. According to Wagh, Pratibha Pawar and Revti Sule visited some companies on the premises of the Park and interacted with women workers. Baramati Hi-Tech Textile Park is one of 26 parks approved by the Union ministry of textiles. Under the chairmanship of Sunetra Pawar, this park was set up in the year 2008 over an area of 65 acres in Baramati in Pune district. A fierce electoral battle is playing out in the Baramati assembly constituency between Ajit Pawar, who revolved against uncle Sharad Pawar last year, and his nephew Yugendra Pawar. Brattleboro, VT (05301) Today Cloudy skies with a few showers after midnight. Areas of patchy fog. Low 46F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%.. Tonight Cloudy skies with a few showers after midnight. Areas of patchy fog. Low 46F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%. US President Donald Trump has urged Russia to agree to a 30-day cease-fire, warning he would slap additional sanctions on the country if it refused the US proposal, as Moscow made more gains on the battlefield. "Russia has no way out but cease-fire. If needed we will sanction it, but I hope we won't need to," Trump told reporters at the White House on March 12. "In a financial sense we can do very unpleasant, very bad things, devastating for Russia, but I don't want to," he said. His comments come a day after Kyiv agreed to the temporary cease-fire following nine hours of talks with Trump administration officials in Saudi Arabia. Trump has made ending Russia's more than three-year full-scale invasion of Ukraine a top priority since taking office for a second term less than two months ago, quickly dispatching his top officials to Moscow and Kyiv to prepare the groundwork for peace talks. He has used Washington's significant leverage over Ukraine -- namely military aid and intelligence sharing -- to get Kyiv to agree to the cease-fire proposal, which if implemented, would leave almost 20 percent of the country in Russia's hands for the time being, at least. But Trump lacks that type of leverage with Russia, which has navigated sweeping US and European sanctions placed on its economy following the invasion much better than most experts forecasted. Putin may seek to drag out talks with the US over a cease-fire to improve Russia's position on the battlefield and hence at the negotiating table when and if Moscow and Kyiv hammer out a peace deal. As Trump spoke at the White House, Putin was visiting troops in Russia's Kursk region, where fierce fighting is currently taking place and Moscow's forces are advancing. Ukraine seized a swath of the Kursk region in a stealth incursion in August seen as an effort to divert Russian forces from eastern Ukraine and use the territory as a bargaining chip during any peace talks. That strategy is now at risk of failing as Russian forces slowly push the Ukrainians out of Kursk. Russians forces have retaken more than half the territory initially captured by Ukraine. Putin's visit to Kursk was his first since the incursion and signals the momentum Russia has in that theater of the war. The Kremlin leader urged his troops to retake the region in its entirety "as soon as possible." Ukraine's top military commander, General Oleksandr Syrskiy, said that fighting continued in and around Sudzha, the largest town in the part of the region that Ukraine occupied. Unconfirmed reports on March 12 indicated that Ukraine has begun to draw back units as Russian officials claimed their troops had captured more settlements, including Sudzha. "Despite increased pressure from the Russian and North Korean forces, we will maintain the defense of the Kursk region as long as it is appropriate and necessary," Syrskiy wrote on Telegram. In a Facebook post, Syrskiy said that saving soldiers lives is a priority and that Ukrainian troops "maneuver to more favorable positions, if necessary," wording often used top describe a retreat. Concessions? Trump hinted that Ukraine would have to make concessions on land, something more and more experts say is inevitable given Russia's momentum on the battlefield. "When we talk cease-fire [with Ukraine], we talked land, who's withdrawing -- we discussed a lot of things [with Ukraine]," Trump said. "We don't want to waste time, people are dying. Russia is not in the best situation now. I hope [Putin] gets a cease-fire." Earlier in the day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised the cease-fire proposal and said he hoped it would be used as a draft for a lasting peace deal that included security guarantees for Ukraine. "It's now up to Russia what is next," he said at a March 12 press conference, and whether "it wants to continue its aggression against Ukraine or not." On the streets of Kyiv, some Ukrainians told RFE/RL's Current Time that they doubted whether Russia would sign on to, and adhere to, a cease-fire deal. "I'm not sure what to say, but it all seems implausible, frankly speaking," said one Kyiv man, while a woman in the capital said the cease-fire talks were "meaningless without Russia taking part." Moscow has so far declined to comment on the specifics of the proposal for the 30-day cease-fire, and it's unclear whether Putin has made up his mind on the agreement. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow was "carefully studying" the joint US-Ukraine statement issued following the Jeddah talks and will wait to comment until Russian negotiators receive more detailed information from Washington. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who represented the United States at the talks, said Washington "will have contact with Russians" today. Trump on March 11 said he would soon speak with Putin to secure his commitment. Mike Waltz, the White House national-security adviser, spoke with his Russian counterpart on March 12, while Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff also planned to travel to Moscow, possibly to meet Putin. CIA Director John Ratcliffe held a phone call with Sergei Naryshkin, director of Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service, late on March 11, the Interfax news agency reported. Rubio told reporters on March 12 in first comments since leaving the talks in Jeddah that the United States hoped to have a positive answer from Russia toward the cease-fire deal and "strongly urge[s] Russians to end all hostilities. Konstantin Kosachev, an influential lawmaker in Russia's upper house of parliament, seemed to imply that Moscow would not simply accept the US-backed ceasefire proposal but attach conditions, taking into account that Russian forces have the momentum on the battlefield. "Russia is advancing, and therefore it will be different with Russia," Kosachyov said in a Telegram post. "Any agreements (with all understanding of the need for compromise) will be on our terms, not American," he said. "And this is not boasting, but an understanding that real agreements are still being written there, on the front line. Which Washington should also understand." Rubio also said Ukraine will need a strong deterrent to prevent future attacks and that Europeans will "need to be involved in this regard." He added that further discussions would need to tackle to topic of the European Union lifting sanctions on the Russian economy. "I would imagine that in any negotiation, if we get there, hopefully with the Russians, they will raise these European sanctions that have been imposed upon them," Rubio said. Moscow has so far been against a European peacekeeping force in Ukraine and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reiterated Russia's position during an interview with three right-wing US bloggers that it will under no conditions accept the presence of NATO forces in Ukraine. Minerals Deal Washington and Kyiv could sign a framework agreement as early as this week on sharing the revenue generated from Ukraine's mineral resources. Trump and Zelenskyy intended to sign the deal during their meeting at the Oval Office on February 28. However, the two got into a heated, public exchange over security guarantees for Ukraine and the meeting was abruptly ended without any deal. Rubio cautioned that he "would not couch [the] minerals deal as a security guarantee." But he added that "if the United States has a vested economic interest thats generating revenue for our people as well as for the people of Ukraine, wed have a vested interest in protecting it if it were to be challenged or threatened." The parade of comments come after Russia and Ukraine traded air attacks overnight just hours after Kyiv agreed to accept the cease-fire proposal. Two Russian missile strikes hit the central Ukrainian city of Kryviy Rih on March 12, killing one person, while a separate attack killed four crew members of a cargo ship near the southern port city of Odesa. Russia's Defense Ministry said its air-defense systems shot down six drones overnight on March 12, one over Ukraine's Russia-annexed Crimea and five over the Black Sea. The Krymsky Veter Telegram channel reported loud explosions and air-raid sirens over Crimean towns and near Russian military sites. The United States announced after the talks in Saudi Arabia that it would immediately lift the pause on intelligence sharing and restore military aid to Ukraine, which could be a boost to Ukrainian forces. Ukraine's battlefield positions have been under heavy pressure, particularly in Russia's Kursk region. As the annual UN climate conference (COP29) takes place in Baku, RFE/RL presents exclusive coverage of environmental issues that are often underreported from regions that are often overlooked. It's a seaside resort without a sea. Avaza was built at huge expense between 2007 and 2017 as a holiday destination for Turkmenistan's leaders and state employees but has now fallen victim to plummeting water levels in the Caspian Sea. RFE/RL spoke to Mergen (not his real name), who traveled there with his wife and two children in June. It was the family's first vacation in three years, but it ended in disappointment. "Part of the coast, where we bathed in the sea three years ago, was now just sand and stone. The sea was 25-30 meters away," he said. Avaza is the only beach resort in Turkmenistan, with dozens of hotels, aquaparks, and other amenities. In August, it played host to President Serdar Berdymukhammedov and other top officials. State enterprises and institutions also send their staff there for vacations. It's not clear whether they all felt as let down as Mergen. "Even if you walk into the sea for dozens of meters, it doesn't come any higher than your knees," he said. "Three years ago, it was up to your neck." The Caspian Sea has been retreating for years. This has been largely blamed on reduced flows from the Ural and Volga rivers, owing to hydroelectric projects in Russia and decreased snowfall. Turkmenistan is the only country on the Caspian that has not acknowledged the problem. But it's clear to any visitor in Avaza, where you can walk to the end of a pier and still be far from the sea. Mergen said his family spent the holiday walking along the coast because the water was too shallow to bathe in. A reporter from RFE/RL's Turkmen Service, who visited Avaza in July 2024, said hotels were trying to build artificial beaches further from what was originally the shore. But even then, after walking 100 meters into the water, it was only knee-deep. Turkmenistan has never released figures on how much it cost to develop Avaza. A source inside the regime told RFE/RL that some of the luxury hotels cost $40 million-$50 million each. The falling sea levels have also affected the port of Turkmenbashi, 15 kilometers away. Opened with fanfare in 2018, it is Turkmenistan's newest port. But it's now too shallow. "They are deepening the seabed near the port. Hydraulic pumps are dredging sand," said a specialist involved in the work who wished to remain anonymous. "The dredging is not only by the port, but also further out to sea on the routes to Azerbaijan. Expensive machinery has been bought from Russia for the dredging work," he added. Will Our Grandchildren 'See The Caspian Sea'? In 2018, officials said that Turkmenbashi had a capacity for 17 million tons of cargo and 300,000 passengers a year. They have released no actual figures for cargo or passenger volume since then. The claimed capacity would make it an important conduit to foreign trade for Turkmenistan, which the regime keeps largely isolated from outside contacts. But now ships are being diverted to the old port, 2 kilometers away. "They brought two cranes there from the new port," the specialist said. "Up until now, the old port was used for small passenger ships." As they headed home from their Caspian vacation, Mergen and his wife were left pondering what the future might hold. "We were thinking whether our grandchildren will see the Caspian Sea, if the problem is not addressed," he said. "Will they vacation in Avaza, which could be hundreds, even thousands of meters from the sea? We returned home asking each other these questions." TBILISI -- Greta Thunberg isn't going to Baku for the COP29 climate summit: Azerbaijan's land borders are closed, and the Swedish climate activist famously doesn't fly. But she is spending the time close by, in neighboring Georgia and Armenia. And she is finding rough waters as she navigates the region's contentious politics. Thunberg's first stop in the Caucasus was Georgia, which she reached overland via Turkey. Her visit coincided with a period of political ferment in Georgia: Opposition activists have been holding regular protests in an attempt to overturn the results of the October 26 parliamentary elections. The ruling Georgian Dream party won the elections by a large margin, but there were widespread reports of irregularities which opposition activists argue were broad enough to invalidate the vote. Immediately after arriving, on November 4, Thunberg visited one protest. "I am here to support the fight for democracy and freedom of the Georgian people," she told RFE/RL's Georgian Service. She sought to link her cause of climate justice to the Georgians' demands for democracy. "Climate activism and human rights are united," she said in one interview. But the solidarity wasn't always reciprocated. While Thunberg attracts fervent opposition wherever she goes -- particularly from conservatives and climate-change deniers -- in Georgia, she also faced resistance from the forces she was trying to support, as her politics was sometimes at odds with the mainstream of the Georgian liberals protesting on Tbilisi's streets. Diverging Views While she was in Tbilisi, Thunberg called for protests against the Turkish and Azerbaijani embassies, and the Azerbaijani state oil firm SOCAR, for their role in supplying energy to Israel and "complicity in fueling genocide" against Palestinians in Gaza. That is not how many pro-Western Georgians see it. The Azerbaijani oil is shipped via Georgia, through the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline, a strategic piece of infrastructure that ties Georgia to Europe and also helps ensure its energy independence from Russia. Social media posts about her visit attracted dozens of comments attacking her for her political views. She was called anti-Semitic for her support of Palestinians, and mocked for her criticism of capitalism. "She is writing harmful posts about Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan, threatening our security" went one comment. "The sooner she leaves, the better." Others complained that she came with her own agenda rather than supporting the Georgian protesters' cause. While she became a regular attendee of the protests on the streets of Tbilisi, she was slow to talk in detail about the situation in Georgia to her millions of social media followers. The grounds for reproaches against Thunberg "included (but was not limited to) her using the Tbilisi protest venue to push her personal climate agenda, being a Russian pawn, being anti-Semitic, spreading 'wokeism,' or, simply, existing," wrote Nini Gabritchidze, a columnist for the news website Civil.ge. On November 11, her last evening in Georgia, she held a protest against COP29, together with a group of activists from Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. They called attention to a variety of causes: Azerbaijan's abuses of human rights, both of Azerbaijani political dissidents and of the ethnic Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh, who fled en masse after Azerbaijan took back the territory by force last year. Other participants had signs supporting causes ranging from democracy in Georgia to animal rights. The co-organizer of the protest was the Feminist Peace Collective, a group of left-wing Azerbaijanis. "We will not choose between Russia and the West," one member of the group told the crowd. "We will not choose between your imposed traditional values and your civilized values." Simultaneously, a few hundred meters down the road, another protest was taking place, with a different approach to the West: several members of the European Parliament had come to support the opposition's fight against the government and their ambitions to join Europe. 'Bit Of A Distraction ' Thunberg and her co-protesters marched to join the larger demonstration, but -- other than the media who thronged around her -- they were largely ignored. "It is a bit of a distraction," said one of the pro-Europe protesters, Maia, who was watching nearby. (She asked that her last name not be used.) "I thought that they were going to talk about democracy instead, or freedom, or something related to the actual purpose of our demonstration." In a brief interview from the protest, Thunberg said the fight for democracy did not have to have a geopolitical dimension. "We have to stop feeding into the narratives of these false dichotomies. We cannot choose between two evils but rather make a new alternative and work on the ground with all our power to create that alternative," she told RFE/RL. "But either way, the fight for democracy and fair and democratic elections will always be...a very basic principle that everyone needs to be able to stand by." The next day, she posted a statement on the situation in Georgia, in which she voiced full-throated support for the protests. But for some, it was likely too late, as Thunberg was never going to impress "those Georgians whose highly (geo)politicized, oversimplified, and increasingly crumbling worldview had no room for tolerating Thunberg's persona, let alone agreeing with her views," columnist Gabritchidze wrote. Her time in Armenia has gone more smoothly, given the lack of a competing domestic political agenda and her adoption of a strongly pro-Armenian position on the conflict with Azerbaijan. She spoke at a November 14 conference, The Impact of Azerbaijan's Aggression on Human Rights and Environmental Protection," in which she called it "absolutely nauseating" that Azerbaijan was hosting the conference. In an op-ed in The Guardian ahead of the event, she called for "immediate sanctions targeted against the [Azerbaijani] regime" for what she called Baku's "terrible human rights violations." As for Azerbaijan, the authorities in Baku not long ago were on Thunberg's side: In April, the Foreign Ministry criticized the Dutch authorities when she was detained at a climate protest in Amsterdam. The Azerbaijani government often highlights such incidents in an effort to call attention to what Baku sees as the hypocrisy of Western governments who complain about Azerbaijan's human rights record. But this time around, an article in the pro-government newspaper Musavat called her a "puppet" of liberal philanthropist George Soros and other forces. And the piece recalled Baku's support for her after her arrest in Amsterdam: Now, with her attacks on Azerbaijan, she was "ungrateful." A little over 10 years ago, I had a curious encounter on the metro in Washington, D.C., that ended up changing my life. While mindlessly scrolling on my iPhone to pass the time, I noticed a man cruising on his laptop in the seat across from me. He was wearing a black winter beanie that said "Palantir" on it. Curious about what it could mean, I went onto Google and searched for Palantir. Start Your Mornings Smarter! Wake up with Breakfast news in your inbox every market day. Sign Up For Free Unbeknownst to me, Palantir Technologies (NYSE: PLTR) was a data analytics software developer specializing in defense technology for the U.S. military. From that moment on, I continued monitoring Palantir over the years and was particularly excited when the company finally went public back in late 2020. Fast-forward a few years, and now Palantir has emerged as a major force within the artificial intelligence (AI) realm. Below, I'm going to break down how AI is making waves in the defense sector and why I see Palantir as a no-brainer stock to watch as the military doubles down on defense tech. Why is defense tech such a big deal? When it comes to AI, you probably think about applications related to workplace productivity, robotics, or even drug discovery capabilities. The subtle thing about use cases like these is that they tend to be viewed in a positive light. In other words, people enjoy talking about them and therefore they end up getting a lot of coverage. The defense industry is different. While it's pretty well known that government contracting is an enormous business, I think it's fair to say that most people try to refrain from talking about the business side of the military. But the fact of the matter is that the federal government (including the Pentagon) has many of the same needs and pain points as a private corporation. Just like any organization, defense agencies keep track of budgets, undergo long and strict procurement processes, and have to monitor things such as headcount and inventory. During times of geopolitical unrest, the importance of cybersecurity and data analysis becomes even more pronounced -- as it's mission-critical to provide the tools required to make informed decisions quickly and efficiently. And that's where Palantir enters the picture. Image source: Getty Images. Another huge win for Palantir During much of 2024, Palantir has quietly announced a number of big contract wins with the Department of Defense (DOD). Megacap tech behemoths Amazon and Microsoft have noticed Palantir's strong presence within the defense sector, and both companies have integrated Palantir's Artificial Intelligence Platform (AIP) with their respective cloud infrastructures, Azure and Amazon Web Services (AWS). These partnerships are focused on enhancing security protocols within the DOD. Beijing is set to spend 33 billion yuan (US$4.6 billion) building a 12-inch wafer fabrication facility, led by state-owned enterprises and funds, marking another step in China's efforts to boost domestic semiconductor production Leading firms involved in the new facility include Beijing Yandong Microelectronics (YDME), which is listed on Shanghai's Star Market, and BOE Technology, China's top display maker. YDME said on Saturday that it will invest 4.99 billion yuan into Beijing Electronics IC Manufacturing, the subsidiary of state-owned Beijing Electronics Holding that is behind the wafer fab project. The deal will give YDME a controlling position with a 24.95 per cent stake in the project, supported by an acting-in-concert agreement, according to a corporate filing. Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team. In a separate filing on the same day, Shenzhen-listed BOE disclosed that it would invest 2 billion yuan for a 10 per cent stake in the project. Other participants include affiliates of Beijing Yizhuang Investment, Beijing State-owned Capital Operation and Management, and ZGC Group. Collectively, the shareholders will contribute 20 billion yuan, with the remaining funding to be sourced from debt financing. BOE Technology is one of China's largest display and is a supplier to tech firms that include Apple. Photo: Shutterstock alt=BOE Technology is one of China's largest display and is a supplier to tech firms that include Apple. Photo: Shutterstock> YDME noted in its filing that China's integrated circuit (IC) market is expected to reach a domestic production rate of 21.2 per cent by 2026, up from 16.7 per cent in 2021. It expects a significant supply-demand gap emerging for mature nodes, with feature sizes at the 28-nanometre level or greater, and a production capacity of 370,000 wafers per month by 2027. Compared with the Yangtze River Delta region around Shanghai, China's chipmaking capital, Beijing lacks sufficient players in manufacturing and back-end processes such as packaging and testing. With the new project, Beijing aims to fill those gaps and enhance the city's semiconductor industry. The deal still requires approval from YDME shareholders and Beijing's State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission. This year, companies including Huahong Semiconductor, China Resources Microelectronics, and Guangzhou ZenSemi have all announced progress on 12-inch wafer fabs. James Cox While far-right ideology may not be as prominent in Ireland as other European countries, it is not immune to a wave of extremism fuelled by anti-immigration rhetoric, according to an expert in global extremism. The Global Project Against Hate and Extremism (Gpahe) "centres its work on countering the threat from the far-right while emphasising human rights and progressive values". The group has documented a "significant and disturbing response" from extremist groups following Donald Trump's US election win. Within hours of Mr Trumps win, far-right factions, including the Proud Boys, neo-Nazi networks, and other white supremacist groups, celebrated the victory by calling for violence against targeted communities, the group said. "This rhetoric includes vitriolic and threatening language towards political figures, women, and marginalised groups, alongside bold endorsements of the Project 2025 agendaa Christian Nationalist blueprint for authoritarianism these groups claim aligns with their goals." Gpahe also monitors far-right and extremist movements on a country-by-country basis. Speaking to BreakingNews.ie, Global Project Against Hate and Extremism co-founder and president Wendy Via, said Ireland is not immune to these movements, adding that it is "no more or less prominent in Ireland". "When we wrote our report, we got a lot of pushback, and people saying 'there's no far-right extremism in Ireland', 'we are evolved, and we don't have these issues'. But people in Ireland are just people, just like everyone else, and you do get these situations. "I've been looking at Ireland for some time and The New York Times piece I worked on with a journalist looked at Ireland, Portugal and Germany. "It is no more or less prominent in Ireland, but it is a fact. Whether or not far-right parties, who ride on things like anti-immigrant rhetoric, whether they gain electoral success or not is important, but it is not significant in that it means you have less of a problem." Gaphe's Ireland report includes far-right parties such as the National Party and Irish Freedom Party, while various groups such as Seed of Ireland and Rise up Ireland also feature. The Global Project Against Hate and Extremism monitors far-right and extremist movements. "There are Proud Boys in Ireland," Ms Via added. "I think the US exports a lot of hate and playbooks. We're getting to the point where it's so entrenched that representatives from different countries, it's like they're strategising together with their messaging." This is an official branch of the American-based Proud Boys (PB), a white nationalist and misogynistic group founded by Canadian Gavin McInnes in 2016. Canada banned the group in 2021 after several of its members were found to be involved in the January 6th US Capitol riots. The Proud Boys, who have chapters in other European countries, claim to be a Western chauvinist group, but their ideology ranges from white nationalist, to racist, to anti-LGBTQ+, to anti-Muslim and anti-woman. Their events have often featured racial extremists from other hate groups. The Proud Boys stage frequent rallies in the US that often descend into violent street riots where members openly brawl with counter-protesters. While the Irish faction is estimated to have 10 or less active members, there are over 1,000 followers on a Telegram account that includes "typical Proud Boy materials, featuring anti-immigrant, racist, and anti-woman materials". Ireland has seen various anti-immigration demonstrations descend into violence, including at a site earmarked for refugees in Coolock, Dublin, while buildings have also been burnt out, often when rumours falsely identified them as sites for Direct Provision centres. Ms Via said anti-immigration protesters who look to encourage violence will only be emboldened by the US president-elect's plan to deport millions of immigrants, many of whom are in America legally. The Proud Boys were prominently involved in the January 6th US Capitol riots. Photo: Getty Images "Additionally, what has just happened in the United States with Trump's election, already the idea of rounding up people and deporting them, that has an impact worldwide, and it legitimises anti-immigrant actions in other countries, Ireland included." Ms Via said the pushback her organisation received about its Ireland report was not primarily from far-right activists. "It wasn't the far-right groups primarily, they always have something to say when we write a report and name people, but there was more public pushback in Ireland on the anti-LGBTQ stuff. The people who said it wasn't a problem were the people who didn't want it to be a problem." While the far-right has gained virtually no electoral success in Ireland, Ms Via said the Government would be unwise to consider this proof that it poses no threat. "When you have people questioning immigration from a good intentions standpoint, or from a racist standpoint, it does impact our political leadership, and it pulls them to the right. They may still believe in immigration and that it's their responsibility to take people in, but they move a little to the right, then a little bit more. That's what we're seeing across the globe is leadership bowing to the right. "Whether it's real or imagined in some places, it's most definitely a flashpoint for every country. "I do want to emphasise that I am not here to criticise Ireland in any way. I'm talking about how these movements work and how easily and quickly things can change if people in communities and in power, are not vigilant and aware. That way, problems are kept at the policy level, not dehumanisation level. "Counter-narrative is very important. People being vocal about their positions is also crucial. This is the core of the democratic process." Far-right activists played a prominent role in the Dublin riots in November 2023, and Ms Via said the messaging from An Garda Siochana in the aftermath of the incident was an example of how police forces should react. At the time, Garda Commissioner Drew Harris attributed the riot to "hateful assumptions" based on material circulating online following an incident in which a man stabbed three young children and a care assistant outside a school. Ms Via praised the messaging of An Garda Siochana in the aftermath of the Dublin riots. She said Mr Trump's victory has increased the triumphalism in messages from anti-immigration activists in the US. It has also increased European activity, with Martin Sellner, an Austrian far-right political activist, and leader of the Identitarian Movement of Austria, set to take part in a conference in the US soon. Italy, France, Germany, they're all moving right. Ireland seems pretty strong, and I hope it remains so. "Trump's election has completely emboldened the far-right movement along the spectrum from the street racist activists all the way to the far-right think-tanks. "We see far-right extremism on that spectrum, but there is a direct line from one to the other. "Across the world, these groups and movements have been vindicated and given permission to be the worst of the worst. "English-speaking countries spread far-right ideas easily. The US and far-right think tanks are educating themselves on the European situation because, just like we did with this organisation, we realised you can't talk about this country by country, it's global. No matter how big the US is, it's a global thing, so how are they connected? "Italy, France, Germany, they're all moving right. Ireland seems pretty strong, and I hope it remains so." State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. 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Thailand is scheduled to release Q3 data for gross domestic product; in the three months prior, GDP was up 0.8 percent on quarter and 2.3 percent on year. Hong Kong will provide October figures for unemployment; in September, the jobless rate was 3.0 percent. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Economic News What parts of the world are seeing the best (and worst) economic performances lately? Click here to check out our Econ Scorecard and find out! See up-to-the-moment rankings for the best and worst performers in GDP, unemployment rate, inflation and much more. The same 652cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine will be employed on the new BSA B65 Scrambler, but it might have a unique character Looking at Royal Enfields massive success with its 650cc portfolio, Classic Legends owned BSA Motorcycles revived the iconic Gold Star 650. This motorcycle was launched in India too, at a starting price of Rs 3 lakh (Ex-sh). Now, BSA unveiled a Scrambler variant of Gold Star 650 at Motorcycle Live 2024 show in Birmingham, UK. If the words BSA Gold Star 650, Scrambler and Birmingham rang a bell, you have a sharp memory. The company showcased a Scrambler version of Gold Star 650 at Motorcycle Live 2022 show in Birmingham, UK. However, this was more like a concept and a demonstration as it lacked quite a few production parts. New BSA B65 Scrambler Debuts The recently showcased B65 Scrambler at Motorcycle Live 2024 show in Birmingham looks more like a production-spec product with all necessary equipment for homologation. It is not yet sure whether BSA has launch intentions with this motorcycle. You dont have to be a genius to realise that Gold Star 650 Scrambler is a direct dig at recently launched Royal Enfield Interceptor Bear 650. Both motorcycles boast impeccable brand heritage and nostalgia. They have similar engine displacement and comparable performance metrics. As seen in the video by Mindful Motorcyclist, BSA has implemented dual-tone colour combination on fuel tank. This engine is liquid-cooled, but the aesthetic fins around its water jacket get a dual-tone finish for that retro aura. Apart from that, there is a new exhaust which is slightly up-swept. Other notable elements include a new handlebar with a cross brace, an all-new subframe and a new and sporty tail section. There is a new fully digital instrument cluster that is controlled by improved switchgear, replacing the analogue twin-pod unit on current bike. Side body panels with racing numbers are new as well. Theres a small front beak now, along with exposed RSU telescopic front forks with fork gaiters. Suspension travel is increased along with ground clearance. 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wire-spoke wheels are wrapped with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres for that quintessential Scrambler look. The radiator now gets a new grill and BSA is also showcasing a grill for the LED headlights. Same engine as before? BSA Gold Star 650 Scrambler will get the same 652cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC motor offering 45 bhp of peak power and 55 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 5-speed gearbox and a slipper clutch. There might be some tweaks to this powertrain to suit Scrambler character. Considering the reception of Interceptor Bear 650, BSA might consider launching this soon. While Toyota publishes the waiting period of its cars on its website, there can be variations based on the specific dealership location Currently ranked fifth among Indias best selling car brands, Toyota has a diversified portfolio. Everything from the sub-4m Glanza to the hybrid HyRyder and premium offerings like Innova and Fortuner are available. Toyota also offers the Vellfire luxury minivan, which is imported as a CBU. Readily available Toyota cars At the Budha Toyota dealer in Patna, the waiting period of various Toyota cars is displayed on a whiteboard. As mentioned earlier, the waiting period at the ground level varies in some cases, as compared to the waiting period data published on Toyotas official website. This is often based on stock available at the respective dealership. Toyota cars that are readily available include the Taisor, Glanza, Glanza CNG, Hilux, Fortuner and Camry. 1 week to 1 month waiting period Toyota cars with a waiting period of one week include HyRyder Neo, HyRyder Hybrid and Innova Crysta. The ones with a waiting period of 1 month include Innova HyCross (Non-hybrid variants G-SLF, GX and GX(O)) and Legender. 6 months to 1 year Toyota cars with a waiting period of 6 months include the ZX, ZX(O) and VX variants of Innova HyCross. The only Toyota car with a waiting period of 12 months is the Vellfire. Strong demand for hybrids As is evident from above, most Toyota cars are easily available. Only a couple of exceptions are there. Top variants of Innova HyCross have robust demand, which explains their relatively higher waiting period of around six months. These variants have the strong hybrid setup, which has emerged as a popular choice since launch. Toyotas hybrid offerings also include the HyRyder Hybrid variant. Toyota HyRyder (standard + hybrid) is currently the top selling Toyota car in India. At number two is the Innova HyCross. Interestingly, Vellfire is the least selling Toyota car in India. And yet, it has the highest waiting period. Vellfire is manufactured in Japan and exported to various Asian countries. In addition to India, Vellfire is exported to Hong Kong, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Brunei, South Korea, Malaysia and Taiwan. As theres high demand for Vellfire in multiple global markets, the luxury minivan has a relatively higher waiting period. However, on Toyota Indias official website, the waiting period of Vellfire is mentioned at approximately 6 months (As of Nov 1st, 2024). Upcoming Toyota cars To strengthen its presence, Toyota will add multiple new products to its portfolio in the coming years. One of these will be the Toyota rebadged version of the Maruti eVX. It will be the brands first fully electric car for the Indian market. Same is true for Maruti with its eVX. Toyotas first electric car for India is expected to be launched in the second quarter of CY 2025. It is likely that the Maruti eVX will be launched first before the rebadged Toyota version. Another exciting project is a new Toyota SUV that will rival Mahindra Thar Roxx. It will also challenge the supremacy of Scorpio N. The new Toyota SUV will utilize a monocoque chassis and have a rugged profile. It will be positioned below the Fortuner. Source (Reuters) -Nvidia's new Blackwell AI chips, which have already faced delays, have encountered problems with accompanying servers that overheat, causing some customers to worry they will not have enough time to get new data centers up and running, the Information reported on Sunday. The Blackwell graphics processing units overheat when connected together in server racks designed to hold up to 72 chips, the report said, citing sources familiar with the issue. The chipmaker has asked its suppliers to change the design of the racks several times to resolve overheating problems, according to Nvidia employees who have been working on the issue, as well as customers and suppliers with knowledge of the issue, the report said without naming the suppliers. "Nvidia is working with leading cloud service providers as an integral part of our engineering team and process. The engineering iterations are normal and expected," a company spokesperson said in a statement to Reuters. In March, Nvidia unveiled Blackwell chips and had earlier said they would ship in the second quarter before encountering delays, potentially affecting customers such as Meta Platforms, Alphabet's Google and Microsoft. Nvidia's Blackwell chip takes two squares of silicon the size of the company's previous offering and binds them into a single component that is 30 times speedier at tasks like providing responses from chatbots. (Reporting by Gursimran Kaur in Bengaluru; Editing by Bill Berkrot and Lisa Shumaker) The S&P 500 has gained an impressive 35% over the past year. Because of that, its dividend yield has fallen from 1.7% a year ago to around 1.2% these days. That's its lowest level in more than 20 years. It's also well below its peak of more than 4% toward the end of the 2008-2009 financial crisis. To put that into a more tangible context, a $10,000 investment made in the S&P 500 right now would only produce about $120 of dividend income over the next year. That compares to the $170 or so that would be collected by someone who invested the same amount a year ago. Start Your Mornings Smarter! Wake up with Breakfast news in your inbox every market day. Sign Up For Free While the yields of the S&P 500 and many of the stocks in it have dwindled to paltry levels, there are several great income stocks you can buy now that would provide much better ones. Realty Income Realty Income's (NYSE: O) yield at its current share price is more than 5.5%. The real estate investment trust (REIT) has paid 653 consecutive monthly dividends throughout its history. Moreover, it has raised its payouts 127 times since coming public in 1994 (including for the last 108 quarters in a row), growing them at a 4.3% compound annual rate. The landlord generates stable rental income. It distributes about 75% of its cash flow to investors via dividends, retaining the rest to invest in new income-generating properties. Realty Income also boasts one of the strongest balance sheets among its REIT peers. Those factors put its high-yielding dividend on a firm foundation. Realty Income should be able to continue increasing its payouts. It routinely acquires additional income-generating real estate, and is on track to invest about $3.5 billion into new properties this year. It also acquired fellow REIT Spirit Realty in a $9.3 billion deal. These investments should grow its cash flow per share by nearly 5% this year. With trillions of dollars of commercial real estate across the U.S. and Europe that it could choose from among to buy, Realty Income has a long growth runway. Kinder Morgan Kinder Morgan's (NYSE: KMI) dividend yields nearly 4.5% at the current share price. The natural gas pipeline giant has increased its payouts for seven straight years. The midstream company produces stable cash flow. Roughly 68% of its earnings are take-or-pay or hedged -- meaning it gets paid its contract rate regardless of commodity prices or volumes -- while another 27% is fee-based, where it gets paid a fixed rate on variable volumes. In the wee hours of Nov. 6 when the U.S. presidential race was called for Donald Trump, many Americans made a prediction, some advisers say: A Trump victory means lower taxes are here to stay. For the past year, many Americans were bracing for the expiration of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), also known as the Trump tax cuts. TCJA was the largest overhaul of the tax code in 30 years. It included widespread tax reductions for businesses and individuals. Many of the benefits for individuals, including lower tax rates for nearly all Americans, expire at the end of 2025. Now that Trumps returning to the White House with a majority in both congressional chambers, advisers say TCJAs likely to get extended. There was a little bit of relief with our clients, especially those who didnt necessarily want him to win or vote for him, said Daniel Milan, managing partner at Cornerstone Financial Services in Southfield, Michigan. Its almost to make themselves feel better about (Vice President Kamala Harris) loss. Its self-soothing, in a sense. Those considering a mini retirement need to look at tax strategies for the year(s) when their earnings will be less What do Americans gain if Trump tax cuts are extended? Potentially stronger investment portfolios and economy, at least in the short term: Americans have already seen their 401(k) and other stock market investments soar, partly on expectations Trump will keep corporate tax rates low and possibly, even lower them further, some advisers said. The blue-chip Dow and broad S&P 500 indexes surged to record highs the day after the election and have remained strong. Companies that delayed investment spending on election/regulatory uncertainty may now be prepared to start putting money to work, wrote chief international economist James Knightley and Dutch Bank ING in a report. That should bode well for corporate profits and economic growth, economists said. Scott Anderson, chief U.S. economist at BMO Economics bumped up his 2025 economic growth forecast to about 2.2% from 1.9%. The Trump victory is likely to at least temporarily bolster consumer and business confidence as well as stock market performance, he said. Lower tax rates. One of the most significant changes for most Americans included lower income tax rates. The top rate fell from 39.6% to 37%, the 33% bracket dropped to 32%, the 28% bracket dipped to 24%, the 25% bracket slid to 22%, and the 15% bracket fell to 12%. The lowest bracket remained at 10%, and the 35% tax bracket was unchanged. If the income tax cuts aren't extended, the affected brackets will revert to pre-TCJA levels. With Trumps win, theres renewed confidence these will be extended or become permanent tax cuts, Milan said. This is good news for our finances. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images Key Takeaways Former Republican presidential candidate, entrepreneur, and author, Vivek Ramaswamy has a net worth of $800 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. The bulk of Ramaswamy's wealth comes from his 10% stake in Roivant Sciences, a pharmaceutical company he founded. He also co-founded investment firm Strive Asset Management, in which he has a stake worth more than $100 million. Ramaswamy was recently appointed as co-lead of President-elect Trump's new Department of Government Efficiency alongside Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Former Republican presidential candidate, entrepreneur, and author Vivek Ramaswamy is nearly a billionaire, thanks to his investments in biotech and financial companies. Ramaswamy has an estimated net worth of $800 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. Ramaswamy was recently appointed as co-lead of President-elect Trump's new Department of Government Efficiency alongside Tesla CEO Elon Musk. From founding his own biotech and financial companies to his stake in private jets, here's how Ramaswamy made his millions. He Founded Pharmaceutical Company, Roivant Sciences The bulk of Ramaswamy's wealth comes from his stake in Roivant Sciences, a pharmaceutical company he founded in 2014. Roivant has subsidiaries that develop drugs and technologies to treat various medical conditions, including psoriasis and cancer. In 2020, Japanese pharmaceutical company Sumitomo Dainippon bought ownership interests in five of Roivant's companies for $3 billion and a 10% stake in Roivant. Ramaswamy reported more than $176 million in total income that year, including $174 million in capital gains. Roivant went public in 2021 at a $7.3 billion valuation and has a market cap of $8.2 billion as of this writing. Ramaswamy owns about 10% in Roivant, according to Forbes. Ramaswamy stepped down as CEO of Roivant in 2021 but remained chairman until 2023 when he left to focus on his presidential campaign. The Ohio native sold $33 million worth of shares in Roivant in January 2024 to fund his presidential campaign, which was largely self-funded, per Bloomberg. One of Roivant's subsidiaries, Axovant, went public in 2015 with a $2.2 billion valuationthe largest U.S. biotech IPO at the time. Ramaswamy reported $37 million in capital gains on his tax return that year, with a total income of almost $39 million. Before founding Roivant Sciences, Ramaswamy worked at QVT Financial, where he managed the company's biotech portfolio, and earned $7 million in total compensation between 2007 to 2014. America's President has authorised Ukraine to employ long-range ATACMS supplied by the US to strike targets inside Russia. More specifically, Kyiv will now be allowed to strike targets within the Kursk region, the New York Times reported. Speculation may increase that permission from Britain, the US and France to do the same with Storm Shadow missiles could follow. Joe Biden's decision is said to have been triggered by the appearance of North Korean troops in the Kursk region. - The Sunday Telegraph AstraZeneca is picking up the pace of its towards the US. It is a move likely to be welcomed by the Trump administration. For the Labour government's plans to turbo-charge UK growth on the other hand it will be a setback. The pharma giant under its boss Pascal Soriot is funnelling $3.5bn into new research and development and manufacturing plants in the States that will require thousands of new hires. Back on home shores however the company's talks with the Government to build a 450m factory in Liverpool have hit a snag. - The Financial Mail on Sunday BAE Systems is planning to build an artillery factory in Sheffield through the investment of 25m on a 94,000 square foot site. The new factory will be used to build the M777 lightweight howitzer. The defence engineer says that the factory will "sustain and revitalise vital UK artillery capabilities". Work has begun and is scheduled to be finished in 2025. - Financial Mail on Sunday Over 5,000 investors in Neil Woodford's failed equity fund are suing Hargraves Lansdown, according to RGL Management. That's nearly twice as many as two years before. They allege that the investment platform continued to promote the fund despite being aware of its problems. RGL was expecting the total sum of the claims to surpass 200m. Roughly 300,000 persons invested in Woodford's fund, of which 130,000 did so through Hargreaves. - Guardian Regulatory clarity and upcoming technical changes are spurring growth in XRP-tracked futures, with open interest zooming to record highs on Saturday as prices spiked more than 20% over 24 hours. XRP and U.S. dollar-denominated open interest are at record levels as of Sunday, with over 2 billion tokens (worth nearly $2 billion at current prices) in futures positions betting on further market volatility. Long/short data shows that traders are slightly biased toward shorts, with 51% in bets against further price increases. (While the ratio should theoretically remain 50:50 at all times as there is always a short trade for each long trade, the bias gives an insight into how savvy traders are positioning over a very short-term period, such as 24 hours.) (CoinGlass) Open Interest (OI) refers to the total number of outstanding derivative contracts not settled for an asset. An increase in both OI and prices typically indicates that new money is entering the market indicative of a bullish trend. On the other hand, if the price rises but OI falls, the rally might be driven by short covering rather than new buying, potentially signaling a weaker trend. XRP prices zoomed above $1.20 in U.S. morning hours Saturday, taking weekly gains to over 87%, which set a three-year price high for the token. XRP's price surge. (CoinDesk/TradingView) Gains in XRP started late Thursday as 18 U.S. states filed to sue the SEC and commissioners, including chairman Gary Gensler, accusing them of unconstitutional overreach of the crypto industry. The speculative optimism among traders is that a crypto-friendly Trump administration could benefit tokens linked to U.S.-based companies, such as Ripple Labs (related to XRP) and Uniswap (UNI), as the firms are more involved in boosting value for token holders as the regulatory headwinds appear to have cleared. In addition, a key fundamental development that may boost future gains in XRP is the upcoming RLUSD stablecoin by Ripple Labs, a company closely related to the issuance of XRP. Ripple plans to use RLUSD in its cross-border payments product, providing liquidity, facilitating faster and cheaper transactions, and potentially integrating with various decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols across multiple blockchains, as previously reported. XRP has beaten a flat bitcoin (BTC) and a 2.7% gain in the broader crypto market tracked by the liquid CoinDesk 20 index (CD20) over the past 24 hours. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. With the city Fire Department battling brush fires at a historic pace, the FDNY announced Sunday the creation of the FDNYs first Brush Fire Task Force. Fire Commissioner Robert S. Tucker announced the initiative will include fire marshals, fire inspectors, and tactical drone units in response to the record-breaking increase in brush fires occurring throughout the five boroughs. The task force will help ensure rapid and effective responses to brush fires, conduct comprehensive investigations to help determine the cause and origin of each fire, and enhance data and information sharing to prevent fires from occurring, according to the FDNY. Due to a significant lack of rainfall, the threat of fast-spreading brush fires fueled by dry vegetation and windy conditions have resulted in an historic increase of brush fires throughout New York City, said Commissioner Tucker. By creating this task force, we are taking real action to prevent brush fires from occurring, putting protocols in place to keep our members safe while they are in the field, and working to identify the causes of these fires after they happen to keep New Yorkers safe in the future. I also want to urge New Yorkers to follow our important safety tips and help us reduce the chances of a brush fire occurring. Sunday, FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker announced the creation of the FDNYs first Brush Fire Task Force, comprised of fire marshals, fire inspectors, and tactical drone units in response to the historic increase in brush fires occurring throughout the five boroughs. Read https://t.co/D6kjoojD7E FDNY (@FDNY) November 17, 2024 This initiative comes on the heels an uptick in the number of brush fires caused historic levels of dryness months in New York City during October and November. In the time period from Nov. 1 to 14, citywide the FDNY responded to 271 brush fires the highest amount in a two-week period in New York City history, according to the press release. Over the last three years, there were just 200 for the entire month of October, according to the FDNY. The task forces operational strategy will focus on three key areas: pre-fire operations, ongoing brush fire operations and post-fire operations, said the city agency. Pre-fire operations are set to include risk assessment, data collection and public Education. Ongoing brush fire operations will focus on tactical and investigation support. Post-fire operations will be dedicated investigating the cause and origin of fires; post-fire inspections; damage assessment; and interagency collaboration. The task force will also enhance internal communication and external coordination to help prevent fires and keep first responders safe while on the ground. Following each brush fire, the task force will also conduct an extensive after-action review and performance evaluation, the press release detailed. FDNY TIPS FOR COMMUNITY FDNYs Community Affairs Unit is encouraging the public to implement these eight fire safety tips: Staten Island, N.Y. In celebration of Veterans Day, Nov. 11, Faith United Methodist Church hosted a commemorative event on Nov. 10 to honor veterans on the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandya pivotal moment in World War II history. The event was attended by community members, veterans, and students and faculty from Wagner College, with a performance by the Wagner College choir. I am honored to join to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landing in Normandy, said Lori Weintrob, Executive Director of the Holocaust Center at Wagner College. We are grateful to Pastor Wood, Everette Lintin, Lay Leader, and Lorna and Charles Wilson for their hospitality. I want to thank the Morris family and every member of this church for welcoming the students and faculty of Wagner College, including my colleague Rita Reynolds. The history of Staten Islanders involvement in World War II was emphasized, noting 21,000 local residents, including Medal of Honor recipient Joseph Merrill. Among the many African American soldiers who contributed to the war effort were the heroic Tuskegee Airmen and nearly 2,000 Black troops. William Morris Jr., a longtime member of Faith United Methodist Church and an alumnus of Port Richmond High School and Wagner College, was one such hero. Enlisting as a teenager, Morriss story of bravery serves as a powerful reminder of the valor and sacrifice of veterans, particularly those whose contributions have been historically marginalized. The Wagner College Holocaust Center motto is to Inspire Courage. Our mission is to empower the next generation with courage and empathy to fight racism, antisemitism, and all forms of prejudice, added Weintrob. Thus, I want to express appreciation to the Sea Cadets and to retired Air Force Major Vincent J. Maligno of the United Staten Island Veterans Organization (USIVO), who organized their participation. I also want to thank Manny Saks and my father-in-law Nick Papas, veterans of Vietnam, for their service. Amy Slaven, Manger of the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation Mental Health Network (Line of Duty), and parent of two Wagner College choir students Alyssa and Ryan Slaven, was the keynote speaker. Pictured (in no particular order): US Naval Sea Cadets Edward Sanchez, Mia Morales, Liam Ferguson, Vasilos Hernandez, Vietnam Veterans Manny Saks and Nick Papas, Norma Morris (wife of Bill Morris III). Second Row: Dolores Morris, Air Force Major Vincent J Malogno, City Councilwoman Kamillah Hanks, Ed Josey (Pres. NAACP-SI), Pastor Wood, Ray Diaz, Prof. Lori Weintrob, Otto Havel. (Courtesy Lori Weintrob)Courtesy Lori Weintrob THE INTEGRAL ROLE OF BLACK TROOPS Black troops played a crucial role as the backbone of the American militarys logistical and supply forces, including the Red Ball Express, a group of truck drivers75% of whom were Black soldiers. Black troops actively fought in the European, Mediterranean, and Pacific war zones. Weintrob explained that the 761st Tank Battalion, known as The Black Panthers, was instrumental in the Battle of the Bulge. The 1,000 Black soldiers of the 452nd Anti-Aircraft Artillery downed 88 German warplanes. The ceremony also paid homage to the 320th Barrage Balloon Battalion, which landed on Omaha Beach. Corporal Waverly B. Woodson Jr., a medic in this unit, performed life-saving acts under fire and was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his heroism. The contributions of the Six Triple Eight, an all-Black Womens Army Corps unit responsible for maintaining troop morale by ensuring mail delivery in Europe, were also recognized. More than 6,500 African American women served during the war, paving the way for the desegregation of the U.S. Armed Forces through President Harry S. Trumans Executive Order 9981 in 1948. From the American Revolution onward, free Blacks and enslaved individuals have served their nation faithfully, despite not gaining full citizenship until the ratification of the 14th Amendment in 1868, said Professor Reynolds in her concluding remarks. Today, African American men and women continue to serve in the armed forces in greater numbers relative to their population, embodying a profound commitment to defending the freedoms they cherish, she concluded. L-r: Shealagh Brower (videographer, Wagner class of 2024), James Merlino (Intern, WCHC, class of 2026), Dr. Vincent Maligno, Humi Europa (Wagner College Bonner student, class of 2026), Patricia Anne Taylor Carsel, esq., Dr. Lori Weintrob. (Courtesy Lori Weintrob)Courtesy Lori Weintrob 2022 TRIP TO NORMANDY Two years ago, his daughter Dolores Morris and I began to plan a trip to Normandy, France, where her father first landed in Europe after a tour in Pearl Harbor, said Weintrob. We walked with over 60 students and the Wagner College choir in the heroic footsteps of all soldiers, including African-American ones. Raised in West Brighton, Sergeant William A. Morris waited hours in the waters off France for the order to lead his men to Omaha Beach. When the gangplank opened, water flooded up to their necks, butin his wordsfar worse was the terrible sight in the waters: blood and body parts. There are no words to describe the horror worse than the bodies on Omaha Beach were those in the waters. Under fire from bombs and large boulders, Morris guided his men in 16 supply trucks from the beach to the top of the mountain. Morris and his men in the 369th Coast Artillery Anti-Aircraft (CAAA), an African-American regiment, advanced against the enemy to help liberate France and Europe. The visit to the American Normandy Cemetery in France left a profound impact on participants. Nearly 10,000 souls rest there, including thirteen Staten Islanders who gave their lives during Operation Overlord on June 6, 1944. Among them was Curtis High School graduate Richard Long, whose story was uncovered through the Island of Heroes project by Joanne Nolemi. Councilman Kamillah Hanks and Dolores Morris. (Courtesy Lori Weintrob)Courtesy Lori Weintrob The United States Postal Service might have found a way to unite a nation bitterly divided after this months election: Its releasing a Betty White stamp. The beloved actor known for roles in The Golden Girls, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Boston Legal, and others will be on a 2025 Forever stamp, USPS announced Friday. White died in late December 2021, less than three weeks before her 100th birthday. The Postal Service hasnt announced a release date for the stamp. An icon of American television, Betty White (19222021) shared her wit and warmth with viewers for seven decades, the Postal Service said in announcing the stamp, which depicts a smiling White based on a 2010 photograph by celebrity photographer Kwaku Alston. The comedic actor, who gained younger generations of fans as she entered her 90s, was also revered as a compassionate advocate for animals. Boston-based artist Dale Stephanos created the digital illustration from Alstons photo. Id love to send a letter back to my 18-year-old self with this stamp on it and tell him that everything is going to be OK, Stephanos posted on Facebook. Regardless of personal politics, self-proclaimed supporters of President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris reacted with delight on social media. Betty White was my hero, all of my life! I actually had a doll when I was a little girl I named Betty White, one Trump supporter posted on X, formerly Twitter. Something to make this awful week a little better: Were getting a Betty White stamp, posted a pro-Harris X account. White combined a wholesome image with a flare for bawdy jokes. Her television career began in the early 1950s and exploded as she aged. The only SNL host I ever saw get a standing ovation at the after party, Seth Meyers posted on Twitter after her death. A party at which she ordered a vodka and a hotdog and stayed til the bitter end. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A local filmmaker is casting a wide net and looking for Staten Islanders for an upcoming documentary. Rachel Caccese, whose previous works includes Urban Farmers, a documentary that tells the hidden agricultural history of New York City, is looking to speak to voters on Staten Island for an upcoming project. The documentary short, Goes the Nation: Staten Island Voters," will focus on voters in the borough and their feelings on the current state of affairs, including topics like representation from our local and national elected officials and division in America politics. Caccese is asking anyone interested to reach out the production email address for "Goes the Nation: Staten Island Voters" at sivotefilm@gmail.com. The filmmaker adds that while anyone who agrees to an interview may appear in the documentary, only the voice will appear in the film. Caccese stressed that no one will appear on camera and anyone with privacy concerns can remain anonymous. Cacceses work has previously appeared on Staten Island. In 2020, her documentary film Passing the Torch: Women Who Lead was released in collaboration with the Staten Island Museum for an exhibit on the 100th anniversary of womens suffrage through the Nineteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution. In the film, Caccese interviewed New York lawmakers including Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, former State Senator Diane Savino and then-Assemblywoman Nicole Malliotakis, among others. In March, the owners of Chinese restaurant Mr.BBQ decided to expand from three restaurants in Brooklyn into an area of Staten Island they heard had a booming Asian American population: New Dorp Lane. Despite not prioritizing advertising, they nearly immediately found support from the growing Asian community on Staten Island. We dont do any advertisements and it has been pretty busy, said Yannes Wang, sub-manager at Mr. BBQ. Its mostly a cultural audience: Chinese customers, sometimes Korean, and Japanese. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Dr. Ife Akinsheye Damon, a Staten Island educator and founder and CEO of The Community-Based Education Movement, has been named an Honorary Ambassador of Africa at the Africa Celebrates 2024 Conference, held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Nov. 7. The conference brought together delegates from 41 African countries and 13 non-African nations to discuss cultural exchange, development, and innovation. As a featured panelist, Dr. Damons influential presentation on the future of Community-Based Education (CBE) across the continent was well received. The honorary title of Ambassador of Africa recognizes Dr. Damons ongoing commitment to educational reform and her efforts in establishing models that strengthen local communities. As an Honorary Ambassador, Dr. Damon will continue her advocacy for educational innovations rooted in community engagement, contributing to sustainable development across the African continent. At the conference, Dr. Damon addressed the transformative potential of CBE in revolutionizing Africas educational landscape, highlighting the importance of creating locally relevant and impactful learning experiences aimed at empowering students, educators, and communities. Founded by Dr. Damon, the goal of The Community-Based Education Movement is to use a collaborative model to transform classrooms and communities around the globe by providing training to students, educators, administrators, community partners, and other stakeholders. Dr. Ife Akinsheye Damon at the conference. (Courtesy Dr. Janet Leslie)Courtesy Dr. Janet Leslie ABOUT CBE Community-Based Education is more than a teaching method; its a pathway for uplifting African communities and tackling regional and global challenges through homegrown solutions, said Dr. Damon during her address, emphasizing the significance of integrating academic knowledge with 21st century skills and real-world applications through strong community partnerships. Teachers are doing their best to prepare our youth for the future, but imagine how much more prepared children could be if we expanded their education into the world before it was time for them to navigate it on their own, she added. In traditional cultures, everyone in the community helps children to grow into self-sufficient adults. If we go beyond the scope of a typical classroom curriculum, we can further the growth and development of students and communities by providing opportunities for everyone to work together to create solutions. Dr. Damon is a member of Lambda Kappa Mu Sorority, Inc., Staten Island Lambda Chapter, and has been a dedicated educator and leader in her community. Her organization, The Community-Based Education Movement, aims to provide dynamic educational opportunities that respond to the unique needs of communities. Dr. Ife Akinsheye Damon at the conference. (Courtesy Dr. Janet Leslie)Courtesy Dr. Janet Leslie ABOUT CBE CONSULTING CBE Consulting is an MWBE Certified NYCPS Vendor that provides instructional support to classrooms, schools, school districts, and enrichment programs. During the 2023-2024 school year, CBE Consulting provided services to Curtis High School and Staten Island Urban Center, resulting in approximately 450 students engaging in our signature curriculum, the Community Advocacy Project. The Community Advocacy Project allows students to use academic and modern skills to explore issues that negatively impact their communities and take action toward change. During the 2022-2023 school year, CBE piloted community-based education projects at Curtis High School and Henry Hudson High School. Rising seas, a problem amplified by climate change, spell trouble for Highlands a shore town that overseas Sandy Hook Bay and often floods. Some of the most recent projections from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration show wide sections of the community likely being inundated by roughly 2.5 and 3.5 feet of increased ocean levels by 2100. Prosecutors allege that Sean Diddy Combs has attempted to contact prospective witnesses and influence potential jurors for his upcoming sex trafficking trial while housed at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, CBS News is reporting. In a Manhattan federal court filing submitted Friday, prosecutors implored the judge to reject Combs most recent $50 million bail proposal, the report said. According to the outlet, prosecutors say that Combs could be heard on recorded jail phone calls urging family members to contact potential victims and witnesses to influence the prospective jury pool as well as to create marketing strategies to sway public opinion in favor of the Bad Boy Records founder. The defendant has shown repeatedly even while in custody that he will flagrantly and repeatedly flout rules in order to improperly impact the outcome of his case, prosecutors wrote in the submission. The defendant has shown, in other words, that he cannot be trusted to abide by rules or conditions. Combs has pleaded not guilty to a litany of charges that along with associates and employees, he coerced and abused over 120 alleged victims, attempting to silence many through blackmail and violence, including kidnapping, arson and physical beatings, the report said. Several judges have concluded Combs to be a danger to the community, a potential flight risk and a threat to tamper with witnesses and obstruct the continuing investigation, the report said. Multiple suits filed last week in U.S. District Court in Manhattan include allegations of rape, forced oral sex and incapacitating victims with drugs, the report said. Combs, 54, has been jailed since Sept. 17 on federal charges that he used his power and prestige to induce female victims into drugged-up, elaborately produced sexual performances with male sex workers in events dubbed Freak Offs. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- While New York City is in the midst of a prolonged drought that has prompted a record number of brush fires, those living in northern regions of the state are preparing for the possibility of not just rain, but heavy snow. The National Weather Services (NWS) Climate Prediction Center shows a strong storm brewing east of the Rockies early next week, with the expectation it will quickly shift towards the Great Lakes. That storm will likely bring strong winds to the eastern United States, which would increase the potential for lake effect snowfall in the Great Lakes, according to the NWS. The forecast shows that much of Upstate New York will be at slight risk of heavy snow from Thursday, Nov. 21 through Saturday, Nov. 23, meaning theres roughly a 20% chance the area will be blanketed in white powder. In Western New York and Tug Hill, two of the areas most regularly impacted by lake effect snow, the risk is moderate, representing a 40% chance of significant snowfall. So what exactly is lake effect snow? Lake Effect snow occurs when cold air, often originating from Canada, moves across the open waters of the Great Lakes. As the cold air passes over the unfrozen and relatively warm waters of the Great Lakes, warmth and moisture are transferred into the lowest portion of the atmosphere. The air rises, clouds form and grow into narrow band that produces 2 to 3 inches of snow per hour or more, according to the NWS. While the risk of heavy snowfall is real, some meteorologists have cautioned that it may be too early to tell which areas will be impacted, as where the snow lands will be heavily dependent on how the winds are blowing at the time. It depends on the evolution of the weather pattern and whether that cold air drops southward from Canada, Mike Kistner, a meteorologist in the weather services Binghamton office, told Syracuse.com. While its still hard to predict if Upstate New York will see heavy snow at the end of next week, Kistner said this time of year is in line with when lake effect snow season typically begins. It is the mostly likely time period, late November and December, when the water is still warm, he told Syracuse.com. Anytime you get cold air dipping down you have the potential for lake effect. Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size Google searches are delivering Australians into the arms of fraudsters, as websites and advertisements belonging to scammers are prominently served up to users on the worlds most popular search engine. In some instances, Google searches provide some scam victims false reassurance that they are investing in legitimate companies. Once theyve lost their money, scam victims searching for help on Google are then being shown ads that direct them to a new set of criminals, known as recovery scammers, who claim they can retrieve peoples lost money for a fee, but instead disappear with the cash. The findings are part of a months-long investigation into how investment scammers use some of the worlds biggest tech companies to find victims. This masthead found that Google presents scam sites to users, even after those scams were the subject of explicit government warnings. This scam website was the first result that came up in a Google search for Bitcoin Evolution. The site instantly connected this masthead to scammers. One example is the scam platform Bitcoin Evolution, which was blacklisted by the UKs Financial Conduct Authority in 2020. In March, Australian authorities placed it on an investor alert list, declaring it not to be trusted. Advertisement But this month, when this masthead used Google to search for Bitcoin Evolution, the first result that came up was not an official notification, but two Bitcoin Evolution scam websites. Loading Registering a phone number with one of the websites resulted in a near-immediate call from a scammer. Invest just $300 and make daily profits of 10 to 15 per cent, the fraudster promised. I dont want you to expect that tomorrow youre going to buy a new house, for sure not, its making only $2000 [or] $3000 by the end of the month, said the conman. The whole idea is that you dont need to spend time on a mobile computer, and you can check your account once a day, once a week, once a month. Fleeced of $700,000 Based on a Google search alone, it can be difficult for Australians to tell if potential investment companies are real or a scam. Results are sometimes muddied by the presence of scam platforms, fake reviews and fake news articles or blogs promoting scams. Advertisement Swav, a Melbourne man who didnt want to use his last name for privacy reasons, was connected to overseas criminals through an advertisement that appeared on his Facebook feed in spring 2020. Although he didnt realise it at the time, the celebrities who appeared in the ad providing endorsements were fakes, computer-modified replicas of the famous person. Melbourne man Swav had about $700,000 stolen from him in a sophisticated investment scam. This masthead revealed on Saturday that Meta, owner of Facebook, takes money for these celeb-bait scam ads, despite the ads promoting notorious fraudulent investment platforms and coming from accounts that were clearly not legitimate investment companies. Swav was just one day into the con, and had only handed over $1500, when he noticed a contradiction in the scammers sales pitch. It piqued his suspicion, and when he hung up, he began doing a bit more research. I started to search intensively about this company to verify if they are legit, he recalled. I searched on Google but most of the reviews were positive. Over the following nine months, the fraudster from a platform called StocksCM stole close to $700,000 from him. Advertisement Loading This masthead tested Google results based on searches for 100 entities recently added to the Australian Securities and Investment Commissions (ASIC) investor alert list. The list includes the names of known scam platforms and businesses targeting Australian consumers without holding the appropriate licences. It showed that Google was failing to block websites for even these publicised rorts. In the first page of results, Google returned 101 links to websites for platforms using the same names as the blacklisted entities. The search results also featured 10 Google ads directly promoting scam brands named in ASICs warning list. Google was accepting money to run ads for the Immediate Connect, Immediate Edge and Immediate Vortex scam platforms, all on ASICs alert list. Advertisement Ten out of the top 14 Google results that appeared in a search for Immediate Connect were likely scam platforms, including the top four results, which were all sponsored links for the scam. Ready to start your journey? Immediate Connect gives you access to worldwide markets. Invest with confidence and safety, says the website linked to one of the scam ads, which appeared as the top search result for Immediate Connect. Landing pages like this are typically not run by the scammers themselves, according to investigators and criminal insiders, but by groups known as affiliate marketers, which specialise in creating advertisements and websites that collect the details of potential victims, and then sell them to scamming syndicates. Googles ad library shows that the advertiser behind the Immediate Connect ad, registered to the UK, was behind at least another eight ads being shown to Australian Google users, and about 200 Google ads worldwide. They included similar advertisements targeting Google users in Switzerland, Belgium, Germany, Canada, Austria, France, Spain, Poland and other countries. After being contacted by this masthead, Google said it was running checks on the advertiser and would take action in accordance with its policies including removing ads. Advertisement Extreme temperatures are accelerating a global crisis of maternal mortality, doubling the rate of miscarriage in the hottest countries while dramatically increasing the risk of still- or premature birth. More than 100,000 pregnancies are lost every year due to flooding alone, and thats only in the 33 countries studied for a recent report in the journal Nature Communications. This disturbing reality is deeply personal for me as the US diplomatic envoy for the Republic of Chad, a country thats reeling from a cataclysmic flood affecting 1.7 million people. It is also suffering from a fivefold surge of mpox infections in Africa. Children should have the world in their hands, but will they? Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto But this is just the tip of the rapidly melting iceberg. From Florida and California to Chad and Peru, soaring heat and compounding natural disasters are causing women to lose babies to heart-related illnesses, mosquito-borne viruses and other fetal abnormalities at record rates. But as world leaders assemble at the COP29 climate summit, women and children are being ignored. Of the 119 countries that have submitted climate commitments to the UN, only 27 include any action relating to what I am calling a burgeoning maternalcide. Unless we act now, this decline in maternal and newborn health could fundamentally alter the very fabric of our society, catalysing a social, economic and health crisis unlike anything humanity has endured before. Advertisement Eating outRestaurant news The woman behind the breakfast empire: After Bill Grangers death, Natalie Elliott steps into sun It was a love story that began over corn fritters, and went on to conquer the culinary world. Now, Natalie is tentatively rediscovering joy in continuing her husbands legacy. Bianca Hrovat November 18, 2024 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share She is the woman behind one of Australias most influential and beloved hospitality exports, but youve probably never heard her name. For more than 25 years, Natalie Elliott was content to work behind the scenes, building an international empire of avocado toast, ricotta hotcakes and scrambled eggs with her business partner, husband and co-parent Bill Granger. Now, in her first interview since Grangers death on Christmas Day last year, Elliott is tentatively stepping into the sun, owning her role at the helm of their hospitality group, and rediscovering joy in continuing her husbands legacy. Natalie Elliott, widow of self-taught cook and restaurateur Bill Granger. Dominic Lorrimer I feel that its important for me to stand up and talk about myself and my work no excuses and no self-deprecating jokes, Elliott says. Advertisement I wasnt just supporting Bill, I was his business partner for 20 years. We worked together. The pair have collaborated since the late 90s, when Elliott helped to produce his first cookbook, Sydney Food. The pair went on to publish 14 cookbooks, five television series and open 19 restaurants across Sydney, London, Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka and Seoul. As Granger once said: Nats name might not be above the door, but the door would never open without her. Bill Granger in the kitchen at bills in Darlinghurst. Nikki To He was creative, and I was the producer: we worked together, having ideas, realising those ideas and making them commercially viable, says Elliott, who lives in Britain. Advertisement That role was not new to Elliott. She graduated from RMIT in Melbourne with a bachelor of media studies and had a successful career in film production. In 1997 she was a line producer on Maos New Suit, an award-winning documentary (directed and produced by Sally Ingleton) that followed two women, Guo Pei and Sun Jian, as they pushed against the status quo to launch their first runway collections in Shanghai. It is brave women such as these fashion designers, The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guides inaugural Cultural Change Champions, Women and Revolution, and her own proudly feminist daughters, Edie, Ines and Bunny Elliott Granger, who have inspired Elliott to publicly acknowledge her role in the business however uncomfortable that might make her feel. Natalie Elliott with Bill Granger at bills, Surry Hills. Hugh Stewart I think too often, as a woman, you can sit back and not necessarily push yourself forward, Elliott says. Ive got to be confident in my own abilities and I need to draw everything from my person to do that. Maybe, it could encourage other women to do the same. Advertisement On Monday, Elliott and her eldest daughter, Edie Elliott Granger, flew into Sydney to attend The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide awards ceremony at the Sydney Opera House, where Bill Granger was posthumously celebrated with the Vittoria Coffee Legend Award for his incredible contribution to the hospitality industry. A crowd of more than 500 rose to their feet as Edie took the stage to accept the award on her fathers behalf. We wish Bill could be here to see this. His kindness, generosity and dedication were deeply evident both in the kind of person he was and the work that he did. He cared, so much, Edie said. It is a joy to celebrate his legacy, though we desperately wish he was still here with us. Edie Elliott Granger accepts the Vittoria Coffee Legend Award on behalf of her father, Bill. Yusuke Oba Advertisement Bill Granger was a self-taught cook who celebrated simplicity, beauty and provenance. Avocado on toast may be the greatest example of his culinary legacy. Quartered and served on sourdough toast, then drizzled with a mixture of lime juice, salt, olive oil and coriander leaves, the exceptionally unfussy dish, first served at bills in Darlinghurst in 1993, has since been replicated on menus across the world. The reason Bill did what he did was to please other people he was a very generous person. He always saw the best in people and he always had time for everyone. Natalie Elliott The family has worked with the Good Food Guide to develop the new Bill Granger Trailblazer Award, given to a person, team or business that pushes Australian food forward and exhibits hospitality, warmth, integrity and entrepreneurial spirit like the awards namesake. The inaugural winner was Marrickville restaurant Babas Place. Advertisement [Bill] was a trailblazer who did come at things in his own way, Elliott says. He wasnt egocentric. He really understood what hospitality actually is. The reason he did what he did was to please other people he was a very generous person. He always saw the best in people and he always had time for everyone. Bill Grangers original Darlinghurst cafe is ground zero for avocado toast. Edwina Pickles Food is what brought Elliott and Granger together. They fell in love over corn fritters at Grangers first cafe, which he opened on a Darlinghurst corner in 1993, and she became a regular during business trips. There was an instant connection, she says. They collaborated on their first cookbook at their Darling Point apartment, where they brainstormed how best to capture the bright vivacity of Bills cafes within static images. Advertisement As their family grew, food became the guiding force of a grand adventure, from the kitchen, where the children made salad dressings and, as toddlers, played with pots and pans, to culinary hotspots across the world, including London, where the family has found a second home. It was great fun, it was a great adventure. And it was like that from the beginning, Elliott says. Bill Granger in the kitchen with his daughter Edie in 2002. Steve Baccon Even as the business expanded into a 19-venue empire, gathering for family breakfast remained a non-negotiable morning ritual: Breakfast with the kids was kind of everything, it was a touchstone. It was a way to show love and beauty, to give sustenance and comfort, Elliott says. But when Granger died, Elliotts appetite went with him. She had been his primary carer as he battled cancer, and felt a loss of control as he passed away. Advertisement Ive never not felt hungry before, she says. Grief is exhausting. Its something you cant control. But you just have to start with the basics, do the simple things like eating and sleeping to get through, and gradually you can build on that foundation. Its a bit like how we have breakfast every morning, to set us up for the day. Amid the grief, the business they created together provides excitement for the future. Grangers culinary legacy will continue to guide the brand and its restaurants, but as Elliott finds her feet as a sole business owner and parent, there may be some changes behind the scenes. Theres talk of using their buying power to improve sustainability throughout the supply chain, and of working with food to empower female refugees, but nothing is set in stone yet. Advertisement Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Turkish-born Somer Sivrioglu has built a small restaurant empire in Sydney. But hes going big with his latest eatery at Blackwattle Bay. Turkish celebrity chef Somer Sivrioglu will join the party at the new Sydney Fish Market, opening a 280-seat seafood restaurant at the $800 million redevelopment next year. Theres been plenty of conjecture over the opening schedule of the delayed Blackwattle Bay project, but the chefs team says they will serve their first fish cooked over charcoal in September or October 2025. Somer Sivrioglu Supplied Turkish-born Sivrioglu built a small empire of restaurants in Sydney, including Efendy at Balmain and Barangaroos Anason, before he was plucked to present MasterChef Turkey. You cant walk down the street with Somer in Turkey without people stopping him for a photo, says Efendy Group general manager Fatih Kulle. Though he lives most of the year in Turkey, Sivrioglu remains committed to the Sydney hospitality market. Kulle says: We were sold on the idea of the Fish Market being one of Sydneys big three attractions, along with the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Its going to be the third-biggest fish market in the world. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites evolving to become resistant to the antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals and antiparasitics that once killed them is one of the worlds top health threats, says the World Health Organisation (WHO). Its estimated that by 2050 it could cause the deaths of up to 10,000 Australians a year and 10 million people worldwide. The WHO has warned of the world entering a post-antibiotic era, in which the drugs that we have come to rely on are far less effective. Its a prospect that Andrew Bowskill, co-chair of the Australian Antimicrobial Resistance Network (AAMRNet), says would be disastrous for human health. Its like losing 100 years of medical progress... Bowskill says. A simple scratch could once again kill you. Everything from minor surgeries to giving birth would become riskier, Bowskill says. Our whole health and medical system basically relies on antibiotics as the backstop to clean up the infection complications that can happen. Pipeline running dry The reason microbes are winning the race against medicine is basically twofold: firstly, we have been using antibiotics too liberally, and secondly, too few new antibiotics are being developed. Australia, like most developed countries, is taking a One Health approach to tackling AMR by promoting antimicrobial stewardship (the responsible use of antimicrobials) not just in human health, but in animal health and agriculture, and the food and environmental sectors. But when it comes to the new antibiotics, the cupboard is looking worryingly bare. The WHO says the clinical pipeline of new antimicrobials is almost dry; in 2021 only 27 antibiotics that address WHO bacterial priority pathogens were in clinical development, of which only six were classified as innovative. Funding model Anne Harris, the managing director of Pfizer Australia and New Zealand, says the current market for antimicrobials is unsustainable. The way antimicrobials are funded is not working for patients or research companies, Harris says. It takes on average US$2.6B to progress a medicine or vaccine from early-stage research through clinical trials to a commercialised product. This incorporates the development cost of molecules that are not successful, with only 12 per cent of new molecules that enter clinical trials eventually receiving regulatory approval. Antimicrobials are different to other medicines, as they need to be used responsibly in a restricted manner to avoid accelerating the development of resistant bacteria. This leads to an unsustainable return on the research and development (R&D) required to make these treatments. In its Breakthrough Nation report, Pfizer calls for new funding incentives to make the development of antimicrobials viable. The UK has shown whats possible. It recently expanded a program thats been dubbed a Netflix model for funding antimicrobials: just as Netflix subscribers pay a monthly fee rather than a fee per movie, the UK government paid 10 million per year per drug, based on the value of the drug to the health system, regardless of how many were sold. Bowskill says the AAMRNet has estimated that a payment of $12.5M per drug per year would be about right if Australia wanted to create a market for antimicrobials and do its fair share in the global battle against AMR. Australia may be about to adopt something similar. As part of an overhaul of the way Australia conducts Health Technology Assessment (HTA) the system that is used to determine which medicines are publicly funded and in what circumstances, the HTA Policy and Methods Review, recommended the adoption of a subscription model similar to the UK. This is not just for antimicrobials: this is the case for all innovative medicines. The full value of innovative medicines must be recognised in a re-designed system. Australian patients deserve faster access, Harris says. As a nation, we wait three to four times longer to access medicines when compared to people in similar countries many are not brought to Australia at all. The system needs bold reform and greater investment to continue to meet the needs of Australians - a system that delivers equitable access to the latest medical technologies within 60 days of TGA registration. She says that now it is up to the Government to implement changes that will open the door for accelerated and sustainable access to medicines for patients. To learn more, visit www.pfizer.com.au The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and 60 Minutes can reveal a series of claims including: But vapes are continuing to slip through to convenience stores around the country, fuelled by organised crime gangs making a windfall out of prices more than doubling over the past year and an open rebellion by Australian pharmacists against an Albanese government policy that makes them the face of the legal market. In January, when the federal government announced laws banning disposable vapes, Border Force was seizing 280,000 a month. By May that had almost quadrupled to 950,000, taking the total above four million in the year to date. More than 20 pallets are filled with vapes and their accessories. Only five are stacked with cigarettes. These brightly coloured, easily disguised, highly addictive and wildly profitable devices have become the second-largest illegal drug market in the country, worth more than $2 billion a year. Inside this secure warehouse near Botany Bay in Sydney, there are 28,000 vapes in a single load a fraction of the number arriving in containers each week. The smell hits you before they open the pallet: mango, grape and blackberry pomegranate cherry ice wafts through the air as Australian Border Force officials comb through a sea of boxes. Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Im enormously worried, said Butler. All of that progress is threatened by the nicotine addiction that were seeing increasingly among young Australians. Decades of public health advances are at risk. For the first time since the 1990s, when Australia began a world-leading crackdown on tobacco, total nicotine consumption grew last year among Australians aged 15-24. Frankly, it got under our guard, he said. I hear constantly, particularly from parents in school communities, how angry they are that this has become so rife in schools. The governments vaping reforms are now in jeopardy as it attempts to create a legal market for devices that help people to stop smoking, while cracking down on the illicit trade hooking a new generation on nicotine. But the health message is struggling to gain traction. Vaping has become normalised in places where smoking has been banned for decades. Nicotine, heavy metals, arsenic, tin, mercury, and a chemical compound known as diacetyl make up most of the elements in vapes available nationally. The Department of Healths chief medical officer, Tony Lawler, said the government was monitoring reports from doctors of thermal and chemical damage to the lungs, heart and kidneys, and reports from dentists around significant oral injuries including to the tongue and gums, as well as the growing mental health impacts of nicotine addiction. Over the last four years, the rates of vaping in Australia have tripled and, really alarmingly, the rates are escalating at a rapid pace among our young. What we are seeing in Australia is a really escalating public health crisis, said Quit director Rachael Andersen, who leads an organisation that has spent decades campaigning against big tobacco. In schools, principals are rostering teachers to monitor toilets at recess and lunch to stop children vaping; teenage vape dealers have become schoolyard fixtures; and students are struggling to get through three-hour exams without nicotine withdrawal. But Fords social vaping spiralled into a full-blown addiction during her final year of school. Misinformation proliferated throughout the classroom: Vaping helped you concentrate, vaping relaxed the muscles in your throat to improve your singing, vapings OK because its so much better than smoking. I think when youre younger, its the novelty, right? Youre associating the vaping with this idea of being cool, she said. It planted a seed in my mind as to what socialising looked like. Lily Fords vaping journey began when she was 15. By the time she was 20, she was coughing up banana vape liquid and blood. When I found someone vaping in a hospital ward that was probably the time when I realised not just the health impact, but the social impact that vapes were having on our community, Lawler said. iGet, the most popular Chinese brand owned by Shenzhen Hanqingda Technology Co, a company that puts its staff through military drills to teach them to never give up, is continuing to market directly to Australians to bulk buy from its range of 30 different flavours in a dozen different vapes, from the legend to the Goat. But even under the new laws, multinational companies, including those on the Therapeutic Goods Administrations notified list, are continuing to flout Australian laws by advertising banned products for sale in Australia, while vapes are widely available at convenience stores. Until we really took hold of this issue last year the laws had enormous loopholes in them, Butler says. You could drive a truck through them. The explosion in vape use prompted Butler to introduce laws this year that banned all disposable vapes and restricted all sales to pharmacies, while limiting flavours to mint, menthol and tobacco, and nicotine concentration of 20 mg/mL or less without a prescription. Today, a third of Australian teenagers have vaped, according to the most recent Australian Secondary Students Alcohol and Drug Survey , with many citing social pressure and marketing as key reasons they started vaping. Id feel anxious, I would reach for the vape, Id smoke the vape, put the vape down, feel relaxed for almost 10, 15 seconds, straight back to feeling anxious again, picking up the vape, smoking it. It was just a repetitive cycle that I was trapped in for a really long time, she said. I was going through quite a tough time. And for me, during that time, vaping was this thing that I could hold on to in the dark and feel like I was secure. Others, including Alibarbar, are now also entering the market, as the costs of production decrease and factories proliferate throughout China. Chinese Premier Li Qiang, left, and Australias Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Credit: AP Chinese vapes have become so dominant in the Australian market that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese raised vaping exports with Chinese Premier Li Qiang when they met in June. Australian Border Force officials are now liaising with their Chinese counterparts to stem the flow. Competitors are also emerging, particularly in the Middle East and South-East Asia. The sharp rise in the cost of vapes (from $25 to $55), fuelled partly by their prohibition, has meant organised crime is taking an interest in the market to complement its profits from illicit tobacco driving turf wars between tobacconists, convenience stores and vape shops from Ettalong in NSW to Mickleham in Victoria. Organised crime recognised that they could make money out of this and channel that money into other criminal activities, drug trafficking, sex trafficking, and all of the other things that organised criminals do, said Butler. Australian Border Force assistant commissioner Tony Smith said organised crime groups importing illicit tobacco were increasingly shifting resources into vaping. Its incredibly serious, he said. The key thing to note is that where there is a profit to be made, that is where we start to see serious organised crime creep in. The government has appointed a dedicated Illicit Tobacco and E-cigarette Commissioner, Erin Dale, to co-ordinate the response across state and federal agencies. We want to make sure that organised crime is not creating the next generation of nicotine addicts, she said. The Alibarbar factory in Shenzhen. Between March 2023 and July this year, there were 71 arson attacks on tobacco premises and other business premises linked to the illicit tobacco and vape market in Victoria alone. Victoria Police assistant commissioner Martin OBrien told a Victorian parliamentary inquiry in July that Middle Eastern organised crime entities, outlaw motorcycle gangs and networked youth offenders have all been linked to the attacks. Police intelligence suggests that organised crime entities are committing extortion, arson and firearm-related offending as a means to threaten, intimidate, control or eliminate competition in this industry, he said. The attacks have also spooked pharmacists, now charged with selling a product very few want to distribute. The national councillor of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Anthony Tassone, said the infiltration of organised crime into the market led to the decision by many pharmacies to not stock these items. Tassone and members of the Pharmacy Guild, which make up 70 per cent of pharmacists, are in open rebellion against the government legislation, putting up 2000 posters across their stores to notify customers they will not stock the products. We just felt shocked by these reforms, said Tassone. Its been policy on the run. Tassone said vapes had sidestepped the normal process for pharmacy approval by being put on a notified list a term he never heard of until the government rushed through changes to get the legislation passed. The government watered down its prescription-only model in a deal with the Greens, who wanted easier access to vapes to help Australians give up smoking. Its unprecedented. In all my career, of over 20 years being a pharmacist, I cant recall another occasion where we had a separate notified list. Something was either approved or not approved, he said. To get on the notified list to be supplied in pharmacies without a prescription, all companies have to do is self-declare that their product is safe. The list includes products from big tobacco. Anthony Tassone, Victorian branch president, Pharmacy Guild of Australia. Credit: Simon Schluter One of the manufacturers of these vaping products that are on the notified list is Philip Morris. As some pharmacists have said to me, Im a health professional, not a tobacconist. I promote healthcare, not big tobacco products. Already, two state governments Tasmania and Western Australia have baulked at the list, refusing to allow vapes to be supplied without a prescription. A Department of Health spokesperson said the TGA was conducting ongoing surveillance of vapes on the notified list to ensure they were compliant with standards. This includes laboratory testing and monitoring adverse event reports, the spokesperson said. Credit: The Age Other companies on the governments notified list include Chinese giant RELX. RELX also owns the WAKA brand of disposable flavoured vapes which have been sold illegally in convenience stores and are popular among teenagers. The companys Chinese headquarters, RLX Technology, is run by billionaire former Uber executive Kate Wang. Former Unilever and Didi employee Du Bing oversees its international operations. RELX has 18 products on the notified list that can now be sold in Australian pharmacies. Late last year, employees at one of its related entities, Hellow SG, were caught boasting about claims of making government payments in Asia and Australia. The recording was first obtained in Singapore by The Straits Times, but the newspaper did not reveal the company behind the comments. In difficult markets or markets with heavy, strict regulations, all you have to do to circumvent them is to go into grey channels, the employee said. We dont do that visibly in Australia and New Zealand. But government payments are not a problem for us because these are extremely subtle. Its just like how big tobacco does it. They go through multiple shell companies and associations and consultants and agencies and whatnot. This masthead can now reveal Singaporean registration documents show the business at the address in Singapore is registered under Hellow SG. That company is wholly owned by Hellow HK Limited. Hong Kong financial documents show RELX executive Du Bing is the sole director of Hellow HK Limited. Cheerain Inc, a company based in the Cayman Islands, is the only other shareholder. Singapores Health Sciences Authority confirmed it was investigating the company. RELX was contacted for comment. There is no suggestion of wrongdoing by Wang or Du. Butler said he had no knowledge of what the payments could refer to but said there was no place for big tobacco or big vape in Australian politics. I cant imagine what payment they would be talking about, he said. Ive never met with them. I only wrote to all of the members of parliament and all of the senators in the lead-up to this legislation to remind them as public officials theyre not supposed to be meeting with big tobacco either. Loading Until June, when the governments prescription model was briefly in operation, one of RELXs distributors was also offering prescriptions to vape users 24 hours after filling out an online Google Form, without a phone consultation with a doctor, skirting government regulations. Since then, despite joining the regulated market through a legal distributor, other Australian distributors have been advertising the companys illegal disposable flavoured pods for sale online to Australian customers. Butler said he was concerned by RELX continuing to sell illegal products to some distributors and would ask the department to investigate. He defended the laws and the concessions the government made. We had to get the laws through the Senate and the argument was made that we needed to balance, first of all, the objective of continuing to provide access to this where there is a genuine therapeutic need, but also clamping down on the main mischief here, he said. Despite record levels of seizures at the border and penalties of up to $2 million for shops selling vapes, the illicit trade shows few signs of slowing down. Vapes were on sale at 10 convenience stores within three kilometres of each other in inner Sydney last month. I think the government has tried, yet Im still seeing people vape and buy vapes, said Lily Ford. Ford is one of a handful of former vape users willing to speak publicly against the industry. The 22-year-old has been targeted online by vapers who accused her of attacking a product that helped them stop smoking cigarettes. Loading I think there are kids that are picking up the vape because their peers are doing it and they just want to fit in, she said. I understand that, I sympathise with it, Ive seen it and Ive experienced it. Butler said enforcing the new laws would be challenging. While more than 30 countries have attempted to ban vapes with little success, Australia is the only country in the world to have implemented a non-prescription, pharmacy-based vaping supply model. I think there is a window still to stamp out recreational vaping, but I dont pretend its not going to be tough, he said. On Wednesday, Butler announced that a nationwide vaping intervention program in Australian schools would start next year. Now, some people said, its all too hard, and we should just give up and raise the white flag and accept this as part of Australian life, he said. But I just didnt want to do that. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. I have friends planning one of those popular European river cruises, so Im suggesting a playlist for them to sing along the way, writes George Manojlovic of Mangerton. The Long and Winding Rhone, Like a Rhine-Stained Cowboy, Loire the Sunshine of My Life, Old Long Seine, River Dnieper Mountain High. Guaranteed to endear them to fellow passengers, particularly the Volga ones. Joy Cooksey (C8) is right, declares Phil Edwards of Denistone East: MAGA stands for My Acolytes Gain Advantage! Its been grand but its time to give the Whitlam/Trueman partnership (C8) a spell. Over to you, Toni Lorentzen of Fennell Bay: I was at a function where Gough Whitlam (the subject) launched Barry Cohens new tome. Gough was signing copies of Barrys book for a long line of patient enthusiasts. I had taken a copy of Goughs own book The Truth of the Matter for him to sign, rather than Barrys book. When it was finally my turn, he looked up and me and said in an imperious voice: This is the best book I have signed all day! Brian Bowman of Springwood recalls Fred Trueman (C8) forcing an edge that flew towards Raman Subba Row at first slip. Subba Row failed to catch it and the ball went through his legs to the boundary. Subba Row: Sorry, Fred. I shouldve kept my legs together. Trueman: Nay, lad, yer mother shouldve. Am I the only one who noticed, on a recent news story about social media, that the address for the Meta head office is 1 Hacker Place? asks Tony Bennett of Broke. A man has described the terrifying moment he saved a toddler from drowning in a Sydney public swimming pool. A two-year-old boy was taken to the Childrens Hospital at Westmead in a serious condition after emergency services rushed to Whitlam Leisure Centre in Liverpool. Loved ones comfort each other beside the stretcher carrying a two-year-old boy pulled from the public pool in Liverpool. Credit: TNV News A NSW Ambulance spokesperson confirmed four units arrived at the pool at 1.40pm Sunday and rushed the boy to hospital. An unnamed man told TNV News he was walking away from the childs pool area towards the adult pool when he saw what looked like a toddler floating face down in the childs pool. There has been no shortage of debate about co-ed and single-sex schools over the past 18 months. The NSW government has announced several mergers of formerly single-sex schools as part of its promise that every family in the state will have the option of choosing a co-ed public high school by 2027. Several Catholic schools and two prominent all-boys independent schools have also announced they will move to co-ed. The two most recent government school mergers were announced last Wednesday. Asquith Girls and Asquith Boys in Hornsby will become separate standalone co-ed campuses with distinct catchment zones, while Moorefield Girls and James Cook Boys Technology High in Kogarah will merge into a single co-ed school. Most children start in co-ed schools. The focus for a high school needs to be on its culture, whether its co-ed or single-sex. Credit: Glen McCurtayne NSW Education Department consultation data, reported in the Herald, found most prospective parents in both neighbourhoods favoured co-education. In both cases, however, the majority of current parents (and staff) at the girls schools were opposed to the change. Some of the opposition to the restructures is probably from parental concern about the disruption that any large change to a school can cause. Other parents have expressed frustration that they are no longer getting what they thought they signed up for, whether in terms of gender, school size or school structure. The 51-year-old is working with International Justice Mission Australia to push for strengthened online regulations. She is due to share her story at Parliament House on Monday, at an event led by the anti-slavery organisation working to prevent the exploitation of women and children. IJM Australia is calling for the new Digital Duty Of Care laws recently unveiled by Communications Minister Michelle Rowland as part of the wider overhaul of the Online Safety Act to include preventing the sexual exploitation of children. Under the new laws, online platforms would be legally obliged to have measures in place to prevent foreseeable harms as opposed to only reacting to them. IJM Australia chief executive David Braga said tech companies should conduct child safety risk assessments on how their platforms could be misused by criminals. Were talking about the largest technology companies on the planet, Braga said. Theyve got the people to do it. Theyve got the money to do it. We think theyve got the moral obligation to do it. Braga wanted higher penalties for tech giants who dont comply with safety regulations and for the Online Safety Act set to be brought before parliament next year to cover device manufacturers and operating system providers. If its dealt with on the device, it would be like an airport X-ray machine where your image is never actually stored and recorded, its just dealt with in the moment and thats it. Growing up, Regan thought what happened to her was normal. She remembered being abused by people she trusted, seeing handheld cameras and people ordering specific acts of abuse. As she entered her teenage years, she began to realise something wasnt right. When she ran away, she lived on the streets before being made a ward of the state. Even when I made the decision to leave home or run away, I wanted to make the world a better place for other people, she said. I never wanted anyone to have to go through what I went through or to feel the way I felt. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen While constantly living with what happened to her, she tried to put it in the past. That was until a police officer contacted her to say they had discovered videos and photos of her in the possession of a stranger, who found them on the internet. She was devastated, but also relieved someone finally believed what she went through. The true scale of how many paedophiles had viewed the material sunk in several years ago when a man on a train called out the nickname she thought she would never hear again. Regan was sitting several seats away from him on the busy carriage when she heard the word and froze. Just six weeks ago, it happened again in the park. Regan knows her face resembles her childhood self but was still shocked to be recognised twice. It just shows that what is in the past is never in the past, because its always out there, she said. You have people coming and approaching you, so you can never get to leave things behind or try and find a way to incorporate them into your life as past experiences. Theyre always present and living experiences. The repercussions of these crimes affect Regan daily due to a lifetime of weariness and tiredness from wondering when the next person will recognise her. There are thoughts of who is watching me, is anywhere safe, she said. Its that constant dialogue that affects everything that I do ... Ive described it as putting on your armour, and some days it is just too heavy. Regan said childrens safety should be put before company profits. A man has been charged with murder after allegedly stabbing his neighbour to death in front of her children in Melbournes eastern suburbs. Police were called to a home on Cousin Drive in Bayswater about 11.15am on Saturday after a 51-year-old woman was stabbed inside her home. Police at the scene in Bayswater on Saturday. Credit: Simon Schluter She was found dead inside the property. The woman is yet to be formally identified. Bayswater man Milorad Zaric, 47, who lived next door to the woman, was arrested at a neighbouring property soon after and taken to hospital under police guard. Catholic Archbishop of Melbourne Peter Comensoli said while the church abhors vilification of any kind, it was concerned that proposed changes to the religious purpose exemption currently in place, combined with the lowered legal threshold for vilification, could erode freedom of religious expression. Comensoli met with Attorney General Jaclyn Symes last week to express the churchs concerns. Melbourne Catholic Archbishop Peter Comensoli. Credit: Penny Stephens Attempts to lower the threshold of what constitutes vilification must not stifle genuine discussion and acts done in good faith, particularly the sharing of religious beliefs by people of faith, he told The Age. The current proposals include highly subjective elements that risk limiting legitimate religious speech while the religious purposes defence is not sufficiently clear. Symes has sought to assure faith leaders that communications done in genuine, good-faith observance of religious practice would be exempt from civil complaints and criminal prosecution. These laws will appropriately reflect the seriousness of incitements and threats made against all Victorians better than the current acts, she said. Freedom of expression is important, but this must be balanced with the vital right for Victorians to be safe in public life and thats what our laws will aim to balance. Melbourne Law School professor Beth Gaze, an expert in equality and discrimination law, said the proposed legislation would bring Victoria into line with other states. She said vilification law changes were usually controversial and rarely carried a political benefit. Governments can only see a loss of votes in this, Gaze said. I suspect that is why it has taken so long to get through. The limitations of Victorias current anti-vilification laws are illustrated by the paucity of complaints lodged in the past five years. The Racial and Religious Tolerance Act is regulated by the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission. Between July 1, 2019 and June 30 this year, the Commission received almost 20 complaints a year on average for racial and religious vilification. Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commissioner Ro Allen, who previously served as the states commissioner for LGBTQI communities, said reform was needed. The current law does not go far enough to protect Victorians, they said. The law needs to be changed to provide broader protection against hateful conduct so that people in Victoria are safer and perpetrators are held to account. The Islamic Council of Victoria supports expanding anti-vilification laws beyond race and religion. It has argued since 2019 that better protections are needed for Muslim women, who are targeted both for their sex and religion. But the ICV has urged the government not to abolish its standalone protection against racial and religious vilification, the Racial and Religious Tolerance Act (RRTA), as the Middle East conflict has produced a surge in reported Islamophobia. We dont support the termination of the RRTA and the inclusion of race and religion with other protected attributes in one cover all legislation, ICV president Adel Salman said. We believe that racial and religious vilification remains a serious problem and is, in fact, increasing and requires specific remedies. Islamic Council of Victoria president Adel Salman. Credit: Jason South Jewish Community Council of Victoria chief executive Naomi Levin said the current protections against vilification were weak and ineffective, as shown by the dearth of prosecutions despite the reported increase in antisemitic incidents since the war in Gaza began. Levin also wants the new laws to capture people who use Zionist as a term of race or religious-based hatred. It is noticeable that local bigots will substitute the word Zionist for the word Jew to somehow make hate speech acceptable, she said. We know that these bigots are not really attacking Zionism, which is a belief or movement, they are attacking Jews. Australian Christian Lobby Victorian director Jasmine Yuen said the proposed changes had sent a shockwave through the Christian community. My fear is that preaching and teaching in Christian schools and churches on anything regarding biblical sexual ethics and Gods creation of biology could be considered hate speech if someone feels it is offensive to them. Melbourne rabbi Gabi Kaltmann said the ACL stance was flawed: Its hard to imagine that any person of faith would oppose the idea that all Victorians should feel safe. Bronwyn Winter, a spokeswoman for Australian Feminists for Womens Rights, which campaigns for the sex-based rights of women, welcomed the inclusion of sex as a protected attribute to give women and girls legal recourse against sexualised vilification. But she said women could themselves be at risk of being criminalised if they defended sex-based rights at the expense of trans rights. Womens Rights Network Australia, which also campaigns for womens sex-based rights, was more blunt in its submission to the government about the law changes: We believe that if this Bill passes, it will be weaponised by trans activists against women. Symes said the reform legislation would be introduced in the next sitting week of parliament beginning November 26. Reports of deep-pocketed investors targeting rugby emerged last week, to no ones real surprise. This masthead understands the funding source is Saudi Arabia, where money is no object. However, the structure of the competition as reported has no chance of succeeding. Made-up teams, playing in non-rugby cities across the world in a competition that looks more like a series of exhibition games? Supporters wont buy into that circus, and I strongly suspect any player who signs up for it can kiss their Test career goodbye. This isnt the IPL, which despite its former novelty is a relatively straightforward domestic competition in a giant market where demand had already been established. The very threat of the rebel league, however, does feel like a shot across the bows of World Rugby to get on with projects such as the Nations Cup. 2. Tanes time in Edinburgh? One of the interesting subplots of the Wallabies tour is the need to develop for the British and Irish Lions tour versus the desire to win every Test. Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt has already signalled there will be changes for the game against Scotland next week, but if he starts getting closer to a grand slam that seemed improbable at the start of the tour, will he be tempted to keep rolling out the top liners? The Wallabies-Wales result overnight will play a part in this conversation, but the Scotland Test does feel like an opportunity to get Tane Edmeds Test career started after two weeks in the camp. I am allowed to do it in Sydney, as long as it is not on my silks, McDonald said. Loading They would be pretty rich to stop people doing that when every other sport around the world is allowed sponsorship. It is like a restriction of trade. Its ridiculous. It is generating another sponsorship for our industry in a sport in which sponsorship is declining. Racing Victoria said stewards would be taking a pragmatic approach to policing advertising on skivvies. Thousand Guineas goes back to the future Melbourne Racing Club is going back to the future. Club chairman John Kanga says the two-year experiment of staging the Thousand Guineas and Rupert Clarke Stakes at Caulfield a week after the Melbourne Cup carnival needs to come to an end. Another Prophet, right, wins the 2024 Thousand Guineas from Aeliana. Credit: Getty Images Kanga says the club needs to return the group 1 events back to their original timeslots on the racing calendar. The previous MRC committee got it wrong and ignored the experts, Kanga said in a statement. All the major breeders and owners agree that the Thousand Guineas is now four weeks too late and needs to go back to Caulfield Cup day so that it attracts the best fillies from the Flight Stakes, leads into the VRC Oaks or Empire Rose Stakes and allows those fillies enough time to spell for the autumn. Similarly, the Rupert Clarke Stakes needs to go back to its stand-alone feature day, which includes the Guineas preludes and leads into the Toorak Handicap. But Kanga says the MRC still wants to capitalise on its feature race meeting at the back-end of the spring carnival by adopting a joint proposal put forward by the Thoroughbred Racehorses Owners Association, Thoroughbred Breeders Victoria and the Australian Trainers Association. It would involve staging a $1 million 1200m race for three-year-old fillies, which would upgrade the existing group 3 Thoroughbred Stakes to a group 1 race, as well as holding a $1 million group 1 1400m weight-for-age race by relocating the Orr Stakes from the autumn. The proposal would also bolster the mid-November meetings support card by moving the group 2 Sandown Guineas and group 3 Summoned Stakes back to that day, together with a new $400,000 two-year-old Magic Millions qualifying race. It will actually give us a real feature race day with proper destination races and the earlier part of the spring racing carnival at Caulfield will be bolstered and returned to what it was, Kanga says. In my view it is a much better outcome and should be adopted in 2025. The recent positive changes at Racing Victoria will hopefully result in support for that proposal. Racing codes take gambling hit An alarming drop in wagering turnover has created a flood of disturbing red ink in the annual reports of Victorias three racing codes. Racing Victoria, Harness Racing Victoria and Greyhound Racing Victoria lost a combined $58 million in the past financial year. Racing Victoria announced a $12 million loss last week, with wagering dropping 10.2 per cent to $7.9 billion in the past year. Gambling peaked at $9.1 billion during COVID-19 lockdowns. New Racing Victoria chief executive Aaron Morrison Credit: Scott Barbour/Racing Photos Racing Victoria chief executive Aaron Morrison said in response to the loss that the sports governing body would be looking to save $10 million across the next 12 months by streamlining its media businesses as well as reviewing race programming. He said RV was in talks with the trainers association about the possibility of more race-free days, as well as speaking to clubs about sharing resources, such as marketing, catering and back of house. Racing Victoria is also conducting an in-depth review of the more heavily subsidised jumps racing, which will be finalised by the end of November. HRV announced a $24 million loss for the 2024 financial year, and as a result has axed staff, is slashing prize money and is cutting back breeder bonus schemes. At Greyhound Racing Victoria, the dogs governing body said it had restructured race programming and made some staff cuts in response to a $22 million financial year loss. Take a punt on new towers One way of helping prop up wagering during the spring carnival is investing in some more high-powered mobile phone towers. Both Caulfield and Flemington became Wi-Fi go-slow zones on the major race days, a source of frustration for punters looking to place bets before races. There is nothing worse than seeing the slow-turning circle of death on a betting app when you have just been tipped into a good thing. Melbourne Cup runner Vauban has been sold to Australian connections. Credit: Getty Images Melbourne Racing Club has already indicated that it will bring in extra portable towers at Caulfield to cope with the load next year, while Victoria Racing Club will surely follow suit at Flemington. Werribee on the nose for Vauban Thankfully, for all those punters who blew their once-a-year Melbourne Cup cash on Irish spruik horse Vauban not once, but twice they now know why the Irish raider failed so dismally he hated Werribee. It is one of the several excuses for consecutive Cup flops that have been put forward by Vaubans new co-trainer, Gai Waterhouse. Loading Emerging from six-weeks quarantine on a strange racecourse can distress some horses, Waterhouse explained in a letter on her website. Vauban didnt seem to enjoy Werribee both years. The Hall Of Fame trainer also blamed long lead-up breaks (90 days and 58 days) into the Cup, as well as heat stress for Vaubans downfall. But all that is about to change now that the 21-start galloper has been granted an Australian passport. As artificial intelligence, or AI, becomes ubiquitous, we have an even greater level of summarized information at our fingertips. I believe this is already enhancing productivity and we are just at the tip of the iceberg. The downside is that people trust the information fed to them, which can often be quite misleading. One example has been top of mind for me lately. There was recently a story about residential construction in downtown Colorado Springs. The third-quarter report from the Downtown Partnership indicated a 34% residential vacancy rate in downtown. That sounds high, and it is high, but it was captured when an influx of brand-new units came onto the market. It was a short, select time period that was a snapshot before people moved into the high number of new units, which are largely occupied by now. This high vacancy rate was inaccurately used to make an argument that our region is grossly overbuilding. Roughly 10,000 to 11,000 people move to El Paso County each year, however, and we need about 8,000 new dwelling units per year in order to match housing demand, both for rent and ownership. Sign up for free: Gazette Business Receive a weekly roundup of business news around El Paso County. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Featured Local Savings If you look at Census Bureau data for residential vacancy rates in Colorado Springs and other comparison cities, you can see that, in 2023, Colorado Springs was actually faring much better than other cities with a 4.7% vacancy rate. San Francisco and Miami had 11% and 14% vacancy rates, respectively. I am only familiar with this data because of what I do for a living. The alleged 34% vacancy rate didnt pass my sniff test, so I looked it up. When my team tried to reconcile the 34%, it appears that the source may have tried to justify the rate by using the wrong denominator, calculating the number of vacancies as the numerator and only using the number of regional apartments as the denominator. Housing vacancy rates are accurately calculated by using all housing, including apartment and single-family homes as the denominator. There is a push toward sensationalism, often with polarizing agendas making quick snippets of information alluring. The manipulation of data and the easy amplification especially through social media perhaps calls for education, starting as early as elementary school, that includes what data sources are safe and how to effectively fact check. Social media platform Bluesky has racked up more than 2 million new users since the US election, surging in popularity and posting its highest-traffic day to date as a growing number of users migrate across from Elon Musks X. Bluesky closed out last week as Australias top-ranked social media app in both Apple and Googles app stores, firming as the social media website of choice for local X refugees. Bluesky has added millions of users since the US election on November 5. Credit: The platform was conceived as a decentralised Twitter clone by Twitters then-CEO Jack Dorsey in 2019, and launched to the public last year, promising almost identical functionality to Twitter but without the baggage and drama surrounding current X owner Elon Musk. After a somewhat slow start, the platform is now catching on with users. It added 1 million users on Friday alone, climbing past 16 million in total, but faced temporary outages due to what the company blamed on a faulty fibre cable. Alarmingly, intelligence also suggests the Russian military has assembled a force of 50,000 soldiers , including North Korean troops, as it prepares an assault aimed at reclaiming territory seized by Ukraine in the Kursk region of Russia. November 19 marks 1000 days since Russias invasion, a sobering milestone in a war littered with other grim records. In August, US officials estimated Russia had suffered 300,000 casualties, made up of 120,000 deaths and 180,000 injured. Ukraine is said to have lost about 70,000, with at least 120,000 wounded. However, the means by which the 47th US president plans to end the bloodshed triggered by Vladimir Putin is not at all clear. And that is why so many Ukrainians including in Australia are filled with dread and anxiety. The return of Donald Trump to the Oval Office has thrown a new focus on Russias appalling invasion of Ukraine, which can only be a good thing. In a new interview, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the war would end sooner once Trump became US president than it otherwise would have. He said he was prepared to do everything possible to end the conflict through diplomatic means. Throughout his campaign, Trump and his running mate, J.D. Vance, had cast strong doubts on continued US commitment to Kyiv. He has said the $US61 billion ($94.4 billion) in military aid that Washington has sent to Ukraine was a drain on American resources. The conflict has been ongoing for more than 2 years, following the large-scale invasion of Russian forces in February 2022. Trump was clear that he would not tolerate the status quo with the USs support of Ukraine when he this week nominated Republican senator Marco Rubio for secretary of state. Rubio previously said the war had reached a stalemate. Trumps pick for defence secretary, Pete Hegseth, has also said he believes the US is spending too much money on the fight. As Europe correspondent Rob Harris reports, the path ahead is perilous. Putin has previously said peace is possible only if Kyiv formally renounces any plans to join NATO. He also demanded Ukraine surrender four regions in the south and east of the country, as well as Crimea, which Zelensky has so far refused to contemplate. Trump has suggested he would halt US aid if Zelensky refuses to negotiate a ceasefire with Moscow. But if Putin rejects peace proposals, Trump has said he could instead ramp up weapons deliveries to Ukraine. Beirut: A rare Israeli strike in central Beirut has killed the Hezbollah militant groups chief spokesman, while another in northern Gazas Beit Lahiya killed at least 30 people, the director of a hospital there said. Mohammed Afif was killed in a hit on the Arab socialist Baath partys office in Beirut, according to a Hezbollah official who was not authorised to brief reporters and spoke on condition of anonymity. Afif had been especially visible after all-out war erupted between Israel and Hezbollah in September. Killed: Hezbollahs chief spokesman Mohammed Afif, holds a press conference in Dahiyeh, a Beirut suburb, last week. Credit: AP It was the latest targeted killing of senior Hezbollah officials. Another strike in central Beirut hit a computer shop, killing two people and wounding 13, the countrys Health Ministry said. Israel also bombed several buildings in Beiruts southern suburbs, where Hezbollah has long been headquartered, after warning people to evacuate. New York: Prosecutors have accused music mogul Sean Combs of continuing efforts to obstruct the federal racketeering and sex trafficking case against him from a Brooklyn jail, by alleging in court papers that he had been trying to evade government monitoring by seeking to arrange three-way phone calls and buy the use of other inmates phone privileges. The governments account came a week before another hearing to decide whether Combs would be granted release on bail. Since September, he has been incarcerated at the Metropolitan Detention Centre (MDC) in Brooklyn, inside a unit where high-profile inmates are often assigned. Seam Combs is accused of trying to evade government monitoring of his communications while in prison. Credit: AP In the court filing, the government accused Combs of relentless efforts to contact potential witnesses, including by attempting to use three-way calls to contact associates whom prosecutors consider part of his criminal enterprise. Prosecutors also accused Combs of making unauthorised calls by using the telephone accounts of at least eight other inmates, instructing others to pay them sometimes through their commissary accounts to secure their co-operation. The defendant has demonstrated an uncanny ability to get others to do his bidding employees, family members, and MDC inmates alike, prosecutors wrote. Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size Palm Beach, Florida: Former congressman Matt Gaetz greeted his admirers on Thursday night on the lawn outside Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort, freshly named as the president-elects pick to be the nations top law enforcement officer despite an outstanding House investigation into allegations that he engaged in sexual misconduct with a 17-year-old girl. A colonoscopy feels great, he joked about the new attention. Matt Gaetz talks with Robert F. Kennedy Jr, before President-elect Donald Trump speaks during an America First Policy Institute gala at his Mar-a-Lago estate. Credit: AP The second Trump administration was blossoming to life around him, dressed in black tie and glittery dresses. Movie star Sylvester Stallone would soon speak. The richest man in the world, Elon Musk, made the rounds, along with Robert F. Kennedy Jr, Trumps proposed pick for health and human services secretary, who had accused the federal health agencies of mass poisoning the American public just 82 days earlier. The mood is just so freaking hot, said Caroline Wren, a longtime Republican fundraiser and strategist, who had been telling people at the members-only club that the only job she wants in a second Trump term is to dress as the Easter Bunny on the White House lawn. Its cloud nine at all times. But beyond the celebration and behind closed doors, much was not going according to plan. The transition has properly vetted some potential nominees, but Trump has also been operating off his own script with many of his personnel choices, choosing unvetted candidates and acting outside the transition structure in a way that has immediately created serious political challenges, according to interviews with 18 people involved, most of whom spoke on the condition of anonymity to speak frankly. The president-elect has been largely unfazed, ebulliently soaking in his win on the Mar-a-Lago patio. Unlike 2016, when the novice president-elect was uncertain of how he wanted to shape government and drew from a well of establishment Republicans for most of his cabinet picks, Trump has approached this round of appointments determined to reward loyalty and to find warriors who will do battle with what he views as his deep state government foes. Advertisement Donald Trump greets actor Sylvester Stallone during the gala. Credit: AP He wants to blow up these institutions, one person close to Trump said of the nominations to run Justice and Defence. He wants someone to blow these places up. But some of those people brought baggage. Senior transition officials have grown concerned about the confirmation process for Gaetz and Pete Hegseth, Trumps nominee to be defence secretary, four people close to Trump said. But Trump made clear he was not inclined to withdraw either selection, convinced that the incoming Republican-controlled Senate would support them, people close to him said. All of President Trumps nominees have the necessary experience and qualifications to carry out his pro-America agenda, Steven Cheung, Trumps next White House communications director, said in a statement. We look forward to every single nominee being confirmed so they can start immediately in the new administration. Top Trump aides spent Thursday before the gala in an emergency meeting to discuss a surprise 2017 claim of sexual assault against Hegseth, which the team had not known about until last week, according to people involved. The transition team was sent a lengthy and detailed document by a woman who said she was friends with the victim. The accusation against Hegseth had been investigated by local authorities in California but it had never been prosecuted, they said. Hegseth allegedly agreed to a private settlement and nondisclosure agreement with his accuser. Tim Parlatore, a lawyer for Hegseth, on Friday said the assault allegation was fully investigated and found not to be true. Asked whether Hegseth sought a nondisclosure agreement with the woman, Parlatore said theres no other skeletons to come out. Theres no reason to withdraw that Im aware of. Cheung described the accusations against Hegseth as left-wing media concocted falsehoods. Advertisement Meanwhile, a lawyer for the woman at the centre of the Gaetz inquiry posted on social media that the unreleased House ethics committee report on Gaetzs behaviour should be made public, a move opposed on Friday by Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson, who also attended Thursday nights gala at Mar-a-Lago. She was a high school student and there were witnesses, the lawyer, John Clune, wrote on X in a plea for transparency of the report. Republican allies of Trump in the Senate had been reaching out to Trumps advisers about their concerns with Gaetz, while Republican senator Kevin Cramer declared on the record that the investigation would become public. The Justice Department had previously investigated Gaetz after his former friend pleaded guilty to sex trafficking a minor to other adults. Prosecutors never brought charges against Gaetz, who has denied paying for sex or having sex with minors. Linda McMahon, a member of Donald Trumps transition team, and Elon Musk listen as Trump speaks during an America First Policy Institute gala at his Mar-a-Lago estate on Thursday. Credit: AP I struggle to find 20 senators who would vote for Matt Gaetz. No way Gaetz gets confirmed, said one Republican Senate adviser. The Senate is not going to give up its advise and consent role for these guys. There are still a lot of senators who take their jobs seriously. While the crises emerged behind the scenes, a steady stream of people flowed through Trumps Palm Beach resort; billionaires, financiers, socialites, family, spouses and political activists, for a series of celebratory events. Former Trump adviser Stephen Bannon, who was recently released from prison after a conviction for contempt of Congress, spoke at another Mar-a-Lago gala on Friday for the Conservative Political Action Committee. Argentinas President Javier Milei also made an appearance at the club. Its a more sophisticated swamp, but its crazy. Ive never seen anything like this. Youve got all these jamokes from Florida, who have barely ever seen Washington DC, talking about how theyre moving up here. People are trying to hire relatives, said one person who has been observing the spectacle for days. You go to the club and run into all these creatures. Advertisement Trump won the election with a unified senior team that had brought some order and a decision-making process to the campaign. But the structure eroded in the days after his November 5 victory, now beholden to Trumps whims. His team presents names in presentations, and he reacts in real time. At other times, he suggests names of people who had not been vetted by the transition team. Names are being thrown out all over the place. There isnt really a functional process. Its really whoever he just decides to name, said one person involved. Some people around Trump said Susie Wiles, Trumps campaign chief and incoming White House chief of staff, had faced challenges to manage the transition with the same level of discipline she had maintained during the campaign. She had spent a crucial few days away from Trump at a donor event in Las Vegas after the election. Cheung said she continued to call into meetings and had been actively involved in the transition process every single day. And the decision to propose Gaetz as attorney-general came together in an ad hoc fashion, after Trump grew frustrated with the competing camps lobbying for different candidates and after two contenders, Republican senators Mike Lee and Eric Schmitt, made clear they wanted to remain in the Senate. Loading On Wednesday, Gaetz hitched a ride on Trumps plane to Washington and it was then that Boris Epshteyn, Trumps legal adviser who was also on board, turned the discussion to the prospect of Gaetz in the top law enforcement role. Epshteyn, a polarising figure in Trumps orbit, has played a significant role in the transition, people involved say. Wiles, who was also on the flight, did not object to his selection, said one person present, and Gaetzs name had surfaced earlier as a possibility. The other co-leader of Trumps campaign, Chris LaCivita, also attended the Las Vegas confab before decamping to hunt a bull elk in New Mexico, which he had chopped up for sausage and shipped back to Virginia, according to a person familiar with the events. LaCivita has not been as forceful a presence in the transition discussions as he was on the campaign. Advertisement Others have expressed increasing concerns about the ability of Howard Lutnick, CEO of Wall Street giant Cantor Fitzgerald, to manage the transition while simultaneously fighting his own internal battle for an appointment as Trumps treasury secretary, said one Trump adviser. Cheung said Lutnick has done an incredible job. Lets stop pretending that everything is buttoned up and going as planned when people are not thinking that any more, said another person familiar with the Trump inner circle about the task facing Wiles. This is not a campaign where she can control every aspect of it. House Speaker Mike Johnson at the Mar-a-Lago event. Credit: AP Conservative activists, who had shaped Trumps first term with the help of then-vice president Mike Pence, expressed alarm at some of the personnel choices, fearing they might be shut out despite significant preparation among think tanks for a second Trump term. Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democratic congresswoman picked to be director of national intelligence, had been a critic of US military support for Ukraine and in 2017 had met with Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad. Kennedys stated plans include several longtime liberal regulatory priorities, like restricting processed food in school lunches and banning food additives. Its hard to argue that a Putin apologist who is friends with Assad represents conservative foreign policy. Its hard to argue that someone who wants to get rid of fluoride in your water and favours abortion for all nine months is a conservative family pick, said Marc Short, a longtime adviser to Pence, referring to Gabbard and Kennedy, respectively, before saying that the Gaetz choice makes a mockery of the whole Department of Justice, which could be what Trump wants to do, but its not really advancing law and order. Cheung dismissed Shorts comments as criticism from people on the outside who have no idea what they are talking about and they represent the establishment political class. Advertisement Part of a square-mile section of state land in Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park is seen on Oct. 5, 2023. Israel pummels south Beirut as Lebanon mulls truce plan Beirut, Lebanon, Nov 16 (AFP) Nov 16, 2024 Israel launched a wave of air strikes on Hezbollah bastions in Beirut and south Lebanon on Saturday, a day after Lebanese officials said they were studying a US truce proposal. An Israeli strike on neighbouring Syria earlier this week killed two senior figures in Islamic Jihad, the Palestinian militant group which has fought alongside Hamas in Gaza confirmed. Hamas, Hezbollah and Islamic Jihad are all backed by Israel's arch-enemy Iran, which said Friday it supported a swift end to the nearly two-month war in Lebanon. Since September 23, Israel has escalated its bombing of targets in Lebanon, later sending in ground troops after almost a year of limited, cross-border exchanges of fire begun by Hezbollah militants over the Gaza war. Israel's military chief, in comments issued on Saturday, said Hezbollah has already "paid a big price" but Israel will keep fighting until tens of thousands of its residents displaced from the north can return safely. "We will continue to fight, to implement plans, to go further, conduct deep strikes, and hit Hezbollah very hard," Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi said on a visit earlier in the week to the Kfar Kila area of south Lebanon. AFPTV footage showed fresh strikes Saturday on the southern suburbs of Beirut, a Hezbollah stronghold, after Israel's military called on residents to evacuate. Lebanon's state-run National News Agency reported four strikes during the day and a further "heavy strike" in the early evening. The Israeli military said aircraft had targeted "a weapons storage facility" and a Hezbollah "command centre". In Lebanon's east, the health ministry said an Israeli strike in the Bekaa Valley killed six people including three children. Hezbollah said it fired a guided missile which set an Israeli tank ablaze in the southwest Lebanon village of Shamaa, about five kilometres (three miles) from the border. Israel announced the death of a soldier in southern Lebanon, bringing to 48 the number killed in fighting with Hezbollah. - Synagogue hit - In eastern Lebanon, funerals were held for 14 civil defence staff killed in an Israeli strike on Thursday. "They weren't involved with any (armed) party... they were just waiting to answer calls for help," said Ali al-Zein, a relative of one of the dead. Hezbollah claimed several rocket attacks on northern Israel, targeting military sites including a naval base in the Haifa area. Israel's military reported a "heavy rocket barrage" on Haifa and said a synagogue was hit, injuring two civilians. Lebanese authorities say more than 3,452 people have been killed since October last year, with most casualties recorded since September. In Hamas-run Gaza, the Israeli military said it continued operations in the northern areas of Jabalia and Beit Lahia, the targets of an intense offensive since early October. Israel said its renewed operations aimed to stop Hamas from regrouping. A UN-backed assessment on November 9 warned famine was imminent in northern Gaza, amid the increased hostilities and a near-halt in food aid. Israel has pushed back against a 172-page Human Rights Watch report this week that said its displacement of Gazans amounts to a "crime against humanity", as well as findings from a UN Special Committee that pointed to warfare practices that "are consistent with the characteristics of genocide". A foreign ministry spokesman dismissed the HRW report as "completely false", while the United States -- Israel's main military supplier -- said accusations of genocide "are certainly unfounded". The Gaza health ministry on Saturday said the overall death toll in more than 13 months of war has reached 43,799. The majority of the dead are civilians, according to ministry figures which the United Nations considers reliable. - 'Massive explosion' - Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack on Israel that sparked the war resulted in the deaths of 1,206 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures. Demonstrators in Tel Aviv on Saturday reiterated demands that the government reach a deal to free dozens of hostages still held in Gaza. The protest came a week after mediator Qatar suspended its role until Hamas and Israel show "seriousness" in truce and hostage-release talks. In Gaza, the civil defence agency reported 24 people killed in strikes across the territory on Saturday. In Rafah, Jamil al-Masry told AFP a house was hit, causing "a massive explosion". "We went to the house, only to find it in ruins, with fire raging and smoke and dust everywhere." In a rare claim of responsibility for a strike on Syria, Israel said it targeted the Islamic Jihad group on Thursday. A statement from the group on Saturday confirmed that "prominent leader" Abdel Aziz Minawi and external relations chief Rasmi Yusuf Abu Issa were killed in the air raid on Qudsaya, in the Damascus area. Islamic Jihad still holds several Israeli hostages taken during the October 7 attack. With diplomacy aimed at ending the Gaza war stalled, a top government official in Beirut said on Friday that US ambassador Lisa Johnson had presented a 13-point proposal to halt the Israel-Hezbollah conflict. It includes a 60-day truce, during which Lebanon will deploy troops to the border. The official added that Israel has yet to respond to the plan. A second Lebanese official, who also requested anonymity to discuss sensitive matters, said he was "optimistic" about the talks. burs/kir/it/srm Iran says 'limited opportunity' for nuclear diplomacy Tehran, Nov 16 (AFP) Nov 16, 2024 Iran's foreign minister said in an interview on Saturday that an opportunity exists for nuclear negotiations with the West, but that it is "limited". Abbas Araghchi's comments come after the head of UN nuclear watchdog Rafael Grossi visited the Islamic republic and for talks with high-ranking officials. "There is still an opportunity for diplomacy, although this opportunity is not much, it is a limited opportunity," Araghchi said of Iran's nuclear programme in the interview with state television. The visit by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) director general is seen as one of the last chances for diplomacy before US President-elect Donald Trump returns to the White House in January. During his first term between 2017 and 2021, Trump imposed a policy known as "maximum pressure" against Iran. This included Washington tearing up a deal on Iran's nuclear programme that had been reached under his predecessor, Barack Obama in 2015. Trump reintroduced heavy sanctions, which the current US administration of Joe Biden has maintained. The 2015 deal provided for an easing of international sanctions, in exchange for guarantees that Iran does not seek to acquire nuclear weapons -- a charge Tehran has constantly denied it is pursuing. "Our nuclear path in the next year will be a sensitive and complicated one, but we are prepared for any scenario and conditions," Araghchi said on Saturday. He said Iran will be ready for both "confrontation" and "cooperation", whichever path the other side decides to follow. During his visit the IAEA chief held talks with Araghchi as well as with President Masoud Pezeshkian and Iran's nuclear chief Mohammad Eslami. Grossi also toured the key uranium enrichment plants of Natanz and Fordo in central Iran. His visit comes ahead of a meeting of the IAEA's board of governors later this month at which Britain, France and Germany could propose a new resolution critical of Iran. In his interview on Saturday, Araghchi warned against such a measure. "If a resolution is passed against us, it will face reciprocal actions by Iran. We will take new measures in our nuclear programme that they will certainly not like." Expectations have run high that Trump will take a harder line with Tehran when he takes office in January. However, The New York Times reported on Thursday that Trump's tech billionaire ally Elon Musk had met the Iranian ambassador to the UN in a bid to defuse tensions. Araghchi in his interview on Saturday denied that such a meeting had taken place. "There has been no meeting between the representative of Iran and Elon Musk," he said. "Now is not the time for such meetings. It is not wise, and there is not a will for it." pdm/srm Trump defense nominee's thin CV, tattoos under scrutiny Washington, Nov 16 (AFP) Nov 16, 2024 Facing questions about an alleged sexual assault and medieval-themed tattoos linked to extremist groups, Donald Trump's defense secretary nominee Pete Hegseth would struggle to be confirmed for the job under normal circumstances. But these are not normal times in Washington. Hegseth, a Fox News host, was picked by Trump on Tuesday in one of several nominations that wrong-footed even some in his remodeled Republican Party and threw down a challenge to the Senate. To take up the position as head of the Pentagon to oversee 3.4 million employees, Hegseth will require confirmation from the upper house -- and Trump is publicly pressuring lawmakers to show loyalty to his agenda. Revelations in recent days about the 44-year-old have made his path to power more difficult, including that the thrice-married former soldier was investigated for sexual assault in California in 2017. No charges were filed over an encounter in a Monterey hotel that saw an unnamed accuser lodge a police report, but the claim has led to questions about the vetting process for the former soldier. "He was cleared," his lawyer Timothy Parlatore told NBC News on Friday. "There's not much more that I can say. It didn't happen." - Medieval - His tattoos have also raised questions, leading to him being stood down by his Army National Guard unit when it was called up for the inauguration of President Joe Biden in 2020. Speaking on a podcast with fellow veteran Shawn Ryan earlier this month, he revealed that one of his fellow soldiers had flagged him as a possible white nationalist because of his body art. He claimed it was because of the medieval Jerusalem Cross on his chest, but he also has the words "Deus Vult" on his bicep -- a phrase meaning "God wills it" that was used by anti-Muslim crusaders in the Middle Ages. European medieval imagery and slogans have been widely adopted by white supremacists and neo-Nazis in recent years, but Hegseth says his tattoos simply reflect his faith. "It's a Christian symbol," the author of a 2020 book entitled "American Crusade" said of the Jerusalem Cross. His handling of medieval weaponry has gone viral in recent days after a video re-emerged of him taking part in a televised axe-throwing contest which saw him miss the target and strike a bystander, who narrowly escaped serious injury. - Trump favorite - His CV includes combat experience in Afghanistan and Iraq and he rose to the rank of major in the National Guard -- a lowly status compared to the generals and admirals he would oversee at the Pentagon. Hegseth boasts degrees from elite US universities, including an undergraduate from Princeton and a master's from Harvard. Square-jawed and outspoken, he came to Trump's attention on the "Fox & Friends Weekend" show that he co-hosts. "You know the military better than anyone," Trump told him during an appearance in early June, adding that he often thought about putting him in charge of the Pentagon. A former Republican operative who vetted Hegseth when Trump was considering him for the more junior veterans affairs secretary in 2016 wrote this week that he remained unqualified and an "empty vessel." Lacking major experience in foreign affairs or congressional politics, his only civilian management credential included being CEO of a small non-profit, Justin Higgins, who has since switched to the Democrats, wrote for MSNBC. "It's not hard to imagine that he would do and say whatever Trump wants," he added. Hegseth's main policy focus in his books and media appearances is tackling what he calls "woke shit" in the armed forces -- and he has expressed support for purging the top brass. He told Ryan on his podcast that his experiences taught him that "the bigotry we saw on the outside (of the army) should not be tolerated inside the military" but that progressive efforts to tackle racism and sexism had gone too far. "The army that I enlisted in, that I swore an oath to in 2001 and was commissioned in in 2003 looks a lot different than the army of today because we're focused on a lot of the wrong things," he said. adp/acb UK doubles aid to war-torn Sudan London, Nov 17 (AFP) Nov 17, 2024 The UK on Sunday announced a pound113 million ($143 million) aid boost to support more than one million people affected by the war in Sudan, doubling its current package. The new funding will be targeted at the 600,000 people in Sudan and 700,000 people in neighbouring countries who have fled the conflict. "The brutal conflict in Sudan has caused unimaginable suffering. The people of Sudan need more aid, which is why the UK is helping to provide much-needed food, shelter and education for the most vulnerable," Foreign Secretary David Lammy said in a government press release. "The UK will never forget Sudan," he vowed. Fighting broke out in April 2023 between the army under the country's de facto ruler Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), led by his former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. Last month, United Nations experts accused the warring sides of using "starvation tactics" against 25 million civilians, and three major aid organisations warned of a "historic" hunger crisis as families resort to eating leaves and insects. Lammy is due to visit the UN Security Council on Monday, where his ministry said he will call on the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) to keep the vital Adre border crossing open indefinitely to allow aid deliveries. "We cannot deliver aid without access. Starvation must not be used as a weapon of war," he said. The new funding package will support UN and NGO partners in providing food, money, shelter, medical assistance, water and sanitation, said the Foreign Office. Deaths in the conflict are likely to be "substantially underreported", according to a study published this week, which found more casualties in Khartoum State alone than current empirical estimates for the whole country. Australia, US and Japan strengthen military cooperation Sydney, Nov 17 (AFP) Nov 17, 2024 Australia, Japan and the US on Sunday committed to closer military cooperation in training their forces as the countries deepened their ties in a bid to counter China's military strength. Australia's Minister of Defence Richard Marles hosted the US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Japan's Defence Minister Gen Nakatani, Sunday for the trilateral ministers' meeting -- the first to be held in Australia. Under the new agreement, Japan's Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade -- an elite marine unit -- will be deployed to Darwin to regularly work and train alongside Australian and US forces. "It is a very important statement to the region and to the world about the commitment that our three countries have in working with each other," Marles said. "This is going to build interoperability between our three countries." Austin said the partnership would increase intelligence "surveillance and reconnaissance activities" between the three countries, which will "advance our goals for a secure and peaceful Indo Pacific". The US defense chief said he was proud of what his office had done to "strengthen alliances" in the region and work with "countries that share the vision of a free and open Indo Pacific". Canberra has drawn ever nearer to longtime ally the United States, bolstering its military in an attempt to deter the might of a rising China. Besides rapidly developing its surface fleet, Australia plans to deploy stealthy nuclear-powered submarines in a tripartite deal with the United States and Britain known as AUKUS. Some fear US President-elect Donald Trump could jettison or try to rewrite the pact, returning to his "America first" style of foreign policy. But Australian officials said this month they have a "great deal of confidence" that the pact will remain. Gaza civil defence says 20 dead in Israeli air strikes Gaza Strip, Palestinian Territories, Nov 17 (AFP) Nov 17, 2024 Gaza's civil defence on Sunday said Israeli air strikes killed at least 20 people, including four women and three children, across the war-torn Palestinian territory. The deadliest strike killed 10 people in the Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza, said civil defence spokesman Mahmud Bassal. At least one woman was killed and 10 were wounded in another strike on a house in a the same camp, he added. Five other people were killed and 11 wounded by a "missile launched by an Israeli drone" Sunday morning in the southern city of Rafah, Bassal said. Four others -- three women and a child -- were killed in an overnight strike on a house in the west of the Nuseirat camp in central Gaza, he added. The Gaza health ministry on Saturday said the overall death toll in more than 13 months of war had reached 43,799. The majority of the dead are civilians, according to ministry figures, which the United Nations considers reliable. Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack that sparked the war resulted in the deaths of 1,206 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures. Power cuts as Russian missiles pound Ukraine's energy grid Kyiv, Ukraine, Nov 17 (AFP) Nov 17, 2024 Russia on Sunday pummelled Ukraine with a "massive" aerial barrage, Ukrainian officials said, killing at least eight people and forcing power cuts with fears of a precarious winter to come. Hundreds of missiles and drones streaked across Kyiv's skies as Russia's invasion dragged past its one thousandth day, leaving more than 20 people wounded as well as the dead and damaging the country's already beleaguered energy grid. The strikes came with Ukraine on the retreat against Russia's soldiers and the support of its main backer the United States thrown into question by the reelection of Donald Trump to the presidency. Ukraine's energy operator DTEK on Sunday announced emergency power cuts in the Kyiv region and two regions in the east. Earlier, Ukraine's Energy Minister German Galushchenko said on Telegram that Russian forces were "attacking electricity generation and transmission facilities throughout Ukraine". AFP journalists heard explosions in the early morning in Kyiv and close to Sloviansk in the Donetsk region, with Kyiv's Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga calling the strikes "one of the largest air attacks" of the conflict. Russia's defence ministry said it had hit all its targets in a massive attack on "essential energy infrastructure supporting the Ukrainian military-industrial complex". Russia's relentless aerial bombardment has destroyed half of Ukraine's energy production capacity, President Volodymyr Zelensky has said. Moscow fired 120 missiles and 90 drones at Ukraine, of which 140 were shot down by Kyiv's air defences, Zelensky said on Sunday. - Winter freeze near - With the harsh Ukrainian winter fast approaching, the country is already suffering from major energy shortfalls, while its outmanned and outgunned forces have been steadily ceding ground to the Kremlin's troops for weeks. Kyiv has implored its Western allies for help to rebuild its energy grid -- a hugely expensive undertaking -- and to supply its outgunned forces with more aerial defence weapons. But many in Ukraine fear that Western help will not be as freely given following the imminent return of Trump to the White House in January. The Republican president-elect has frequently questioned the United States' backing for Ukraine, and campaigned with the promise of cutting a quick deal to end the war. Besides the capital Kyiv's region, DTEK also announced power cuts in the Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk regions in the east, where Russia's army has claimed the capture of dozens of villages in recent weeks. Power was also cut off in parts of the southern Black Sea port city of Odesa, its mayor said, while officials warned essential infrastructure was affected in almost all parts of the country with the west and south particularly hard-hit. Although the extent of the damage is difficult to estimate at present, the grid operator said that this was the eighth major attack on its power stations this year. - Poland scrambles jets - In total, the overnight Russian strikes left at least eight people dead and wounded around 20 more, according to Ukrainian officials. The toll included two employees of the state railway company Ukrzaliznytsia in the city of Nikopol, who were killed when a depot was hit, the Dnipropetrovsk region's governor Sergiy Lysak and the operator said. Three more people were wounded in the bombing. Odesa governor Oleg Kiper said strikes on the port city likewise killed two. A Russian drone strike killed two people and injured six others, including two children, in the southern Mykolaiv region, according to Ukraine's emergency services. In the western Lviv region, relatively spared from the conflict, a cruise missile strike killed a 66-year-old woman and wounded two others, said military administration chief Makdym Kozytsky. Several people were also injured in separate attacks in Dnipro in the east, the central Poltava as well as the southern Zaporizhzhia, Odesa and Kherson regions. Russian missiles and drones even struck Transcarpathia, a very rarely targeted western region far from the front line on the border with Poland and Hungary, without causing any casualties. That prompted neighbouring Poland to scramble fighter jets and mobilise all available forces on Sunday in response. Warsaw puts its armed forces on alert whenever attacks against its neighbouring country are deemed likely to create a danger for its own territory. - 'Diplomatic means' - Top diplomat Sybiga branded the barrage as Russia's "real response" to Western leaders who had sought to reach out to President Vladimir Putin. Kyiv was riled by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz initiating a call with Putin on Friday despite Ukraine's objections, in what was the Russian leader's first phone conversation with a major Western leader in nearly two years. Ukraine accused Scholz of an "attempt at appeasement" and said the call would not achieve anything other than minimise Putin's "isolation". Having repeatedly promised to end the Ukraine war in a day, Trump's reelection has reignited debate over the prospect of a diplomatic solution to the conflict. After long dismissing the prospect of talks, Zelensky on Saturday said he wanted to bring an end to the war by "diplomatic means" next year. Yet Kyiv and the Kremlin remain at odds over the terms of any peace deal. Putin has said he will only accept talks with Ukraine if Kyiv surrenders Ukrainian territory that Moscow occupies. Zelensky has rejected Putin's conditions. Iraq blast kills three security personnel: officials Baghdad, Nov 17 (AFP) Nov 17, 2024 A blast from an explosive device on Sunday killed three members of Iraq's security forces and wounded three others in the northern province of Salaheddin, officials said. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack in Tuz Khurmatu, which borders a province plagued by sporadic jihadist attacks. Iraq declared victory over the Islamic State group in late 2017, but its jihadists remain active in the country, particularly in rural areas. Sunday's blast killed an army regiment commander, another officer and a security service member, said Zulfiqar al-Bayati, mayor of Tuz Khurmatu. A security official confirmed the death toll to AFP, adding the victims had been in a vehicle when the explosion occurred. Those killed were members of the Peshmerga forces of the autonomous northern region of Kurdistan, while the wounded were members from the Iraqi army. The Iraqi defence ministry paid tribute to the three soldiers who "fell as martyrs... while carrying out their duty". The Islamic State group overran large swathes of Iraq and neighbouring Syria in 2014, proclaiming its "caliphate" and launching a reign of terror. It was defeated in Iraq in 2017 by Iraqi forces backed by a US-led military coalition, and in 2019 lost the last territory it held in Syria to US-backed Kurdish forces. A report by United Nations experts published in July estimated there were around 1,500 to 3,000 jihadists remaining in Iraq and Syria. Lebanon army says Israeli attack kills 2 soldiers Beirut, Lebanon, Nov 17 (AFP) Nov 17, 2024 The Lebanese army said an Israeli attack on Sunday killed two soldiers, accusing Israel of directly targeting their position in south Lebanon where the Israeli military is fighting Hezbollah. "The Israeli enemy directly targeted an army centre" in Mari in the Hasbaya area, causing "the death of one of the soldiers and the wounding of three others, one of whom is in critical condition", the army said in a statement. A separate statement shortly afterwards said "a second soldier" had died of his wounds. Israeli fire has killed more than a dozen Lebanese soldiers since all-out war between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah group erupted in September, according to an AFP tally of official announcements. Gaza civil defence says 34 dead in Israeli air strike Gaza City, Palestinian Territories, Nov 17 (AFP) Nov 17, 2024 Gaza's civil defence agency said an Israeli air strike killed at least 34 people including children on Sunday, with dozens more feared buried under the rubble in the Palestinian territory's north. The Israeli military told AFP its forces had conducted overnight strikes on "terrorist targets" in the Beit Lahia area, sending Palestinians fleeing, according to AFPTV footage. Civil defence spokesman Mahmud Bassal told AFP that 34 bodies had been pulled from the rubble of the bombarded five-storey residential building in Beit Lahia, "including children and women", revising an earlier toll of 30 dead. Seven people were wounded, he said. AFP images showed men covered in dust scrambling to reach people under the rubble, as some of the bodies were taken away on a donkey-pulled cart. Other images showed the flattened building with broken concrete and twisted metal sticking out from the ruins, as more bodies covered in blankets lay nearby. Bassal earlier reported that 59 people were missing. "The chances of rescuing more wounded are decreasing because of the continuous shooting and artillery shelling," he said. Israel on October 6 -- nearly a year into its war against Hamas -- began a major air and ground assault in the already ravaged north of the Gaza Strip. The offensive, which the military said was meant to stop Hamas militants from regrouping, began in Jabalia and then expanded to Beit Lahia. Reporting "ongoing terrorist activities in the area of Beit Lahia", the military said on Sunday that "overnight, several strikes were conducted on terrorist targets in the area". It added in a statement that "there have been continuous efforts to evacuate the civilian population from the active war zone". - Shelling 'all night long' - The war, triggered by Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, has displaced the vast majority of Gaza's 2.4 million people at least once, and residents as well as UN and aid officials have repeatedly warned no area of the besieged territory was safe. AFPTV images on Sunday showed Palestinians, including young children and elderly people, who fled Beit Lahia, many on foot, carrying their belongings along a main road. "All night long, shells were fired at us and we couldn't sleep," said one of them, Umm Mohammed al-Debs. "In the morning, they dropped leaflets on us telling us to leave," she told AFP. Another Palestinian displaced from Beit Lahia, Mohammed al-Madhoun, said the Israelis "targeted us, so we left". Hamas accused Israel of committing a "massacre" in Beit Lahia, saying it was part of its "genocidal war and revenge against unarmed civilians". Palestinian presidency spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeineh, whose administration is based in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, condemned "this continued bloodshed" and said that the United States -- Israel's main military backer -- was "enabling" it. Abu Rudeineh in a statement also demanded that "the United States force Israel to stop its aggression and comply with international law". The Palestinian foreign ministry urged the international community to act to "immediately halt these atrocities". The Hamas-run territory's health ministry said the overall death toll in more than 13 months of war had reached 43,846. The majority of the dead are civilians, according to ministry figures, which the United Nations considers reliable. The October 7 attack on Israel that sparked the war resulted in the deaths of 1,206 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures. Tom Cronin and Bob Loevy are news columnists who write on Colorado and national political issues. NATO's largest artillery exercise underway in Finland Rovaniemi, Finland, Nov 17 (AFP) Nov 17, 2024 Finland is hosting its first large-scale NATO artillery exercise since the Nordic nation joined the military alliance last year, with live fire drills starting on Sunday. The exercise conducted in the northern Lapland region in November is part of Dynamic Front 25, the largest NATO artillery exercise ever held in Europe, with fire drills in Finland as well as Estonia, Germany, Romania and Poland. Running from 4 to 28 November, it marks the first time NATO allies are practicing artillery fire at a large scale on Finnish soil. The Nordic nation, which shares a border with Russia, joined NATO last year, dropping decades of military non-alignment after Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. "We work on interoperability with our allies, to carry out artillery fire in coherence with our NATO allies," said Romain, a French army captain and unit commander of the Ecrins battery of the 93rd mountain artillery regiment, giving only his first name. His team was dressed in warm camouflage uniforms in a field where the temperature was a few degrees below zero Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit). Up to 3,600 soldiers from Finland, the United States, Sweden, Britain, France and some other NATO members were rehearsing as a damp cold took hold of Lapland's vast arctic landscapes. The Lapland firing range and training area, called Rovajarvi, is Europe's biggest. "The area itself is the reason why allies want to come to the Rovajarvi exercise area to train", Finnish Colonel Janne Makitalo, director of the exercise, told AFP. It allows for "multi-sided tactical fire exchanges for field artillery" while training soldiers to handle the challenging conditions and varying terrain in the Arctic region, Makitalo said. As Donald Trump's reelection to the presidency raises new questions about the permanent home of U.S. Space Command, here are six key things to know as it's determined whether it stays in Colorado Springs at Peterson Space Force Base or moves to Huntsville, Ala. Spoilers ahead for episodes one and two of the second season of Bad Sisters. When news broke that there would be a season two of Apple TV's Bad Sisters, my first thought was, "Why?" The first season of Sharon Horgan's adaptation of the Belgian series Clan was a highly addictive dark comedy about the steps we will take for the people we love. Season one seemed to end with as close to a "happily ever after" as the Garvey sisters could get. After multiple failed (and hilarious) attempts to kill their sister Grace's evil husband, Jean Paul (Claes Bang), it was Grace (Anne-Marie Duff) who managed to get the job done. The years of abuse had taken a toll, and Jean-Paul admitting that he raped Grace's sister, Eva, was the last straw. After an agreement with Matthew Claffin (Daryl McCormack) to not file an insurance claim, which would uncover that the Claffins did not have the money to cover the claim, everyone seemed unburdened. What would season two be about? As it turns out, there were enough loose ends to build a compelling start to the second season, which starts with the Garvey sisters, sans Grace, driving to a cliff and opening the trunk of the car only to be frightened by what they see. Who's in the trunk? Why does Becka (Eve Hewson) look badly beaten? Bad Sisters did a great job of playing with time in season one, and it seems like they might be doing the same thing here. Good Sisters - BAD SISTERS, Pictured: Sarah Greene as Bibi, Eva Birthistle as Ursula, Sharon Horgan as Eva, Anne-Marie Duff as Grace, and Eve Hewson as Becka. Photo: Apple TV+ 2024. All Rights Reserved We fast-forward Grace in bed with a bearded man named Ian (Owen McDonnell). The seemingly intimate moment is broken by Grace strangling Ian in her sleep. Ian jokingly says that hell now marry her. The sisters celebrate Grace's upcoming nuptials at a racetrack. It's clear in the exchanges that sister Ursula (Eva Birthistle) has moved on from her marriage to Donal (Jonjo O'Neill) and is flirting with a jockey. Eva has a great line about being lonely, and on Hinge (which sounds like shes saying unhinged), Bibi (Sarah Greene) shares apprehension about plans to try for another baby with her wife, and Becka is still Becka-esque. This scene feels like normal sister bonding, not the kind that involves murder and mayhem. Grace's old neighbor (and partner in staging John Paul's body), Roger Muldoon (Michael Smiley), is there with his sister, Angelica (Fiona Shaw). You just know from the first moment Fiona Shaw is on screen what this character is going to do. She's the ultimate community busybody who cloaks her insatiable need to know everyone's business with acts of kindness. Grace does indeed marry Ian with the sisters all dressed in sunny yellow outfits. Old neighbor Roger Muldoon is there drunk and feeling cast aside by Grace and guilt for what they did. Is he in the trunk? There's a new body in the mix. Investigating a dismembered body found in a suitcase in a pond behind John Paul's parents' house, we see the return of Fergal Loftus (Barry Ward). Fergal is still catching grief for authorizing the exhumation of John Pauls body in season one based on Thomas Claffin's obsession to prove foul play in the death and avoid paying the life insurance claim. Fergal is still being teased about this not yielding any results and is playfully called "snatcher" by his colleagues. To add to Fergals frustration, he's been charged with training new detective Una Houlihan (Thaddea Graham). We know the body is George Williams, who was murdered and tossed in the pond by John Paul in the first season. Fergal sees a shot at vindication and John Paul is still causing problems for the Garvey sisters. The dismembered body brings John Paul's death back into focus, and the police are once again at Grace's door. Already on edge, Roger confides in his sister about what actually happened to John Paul, and voila, Angelica has the leverage to confront Grace under the auspices of trying to help. Add in Angelica's unneeded advice to Nora (Yasmine Akram) surrounding Bibi's apprehension about having another child, and her motives continue to be suspicious. Is she obsessed with Grace or all of the Garvey sisters? Penance- BAD SISTERS, Pictured: Fiona Shaw as Angelica.Photo: Apple TV+ 2024. All Rights Reserved Grace tells Ian that she murdered John Paul and he leaves. Or does he? The sisters are suspicious that Ian just disappeared but left his phone (found hidden in the bathroom, weird) and a blood-covered shirt. Is Ian in the trunk? Grace is unraveling. She's yelling at Blanaid (Saise Quinn), her sisters, and Angelica (in public!). The walls are closing in on her and her sisters are worried, especially knowing that Roger helped Grace. Now I'm back to wondering if Roger's in the trunk. Everything's building to a heartbreaking end to Penance. Grace comes home, kisses Blanaid, and says she's sorry. She takes stacks of cash, places it in bags, and leaves the house. Is she on the run? Is someone blackmailing her? As she's driving, she calls Eva, distraught, but Eva doesn't answer. Realizing she's missing one of the earrings Blanaid gave her, she reaches in the back of the car only to get into an accident. The police arrive at Eva's, and with one look at Blanaid's crestfallen face in the back of the police car, Eva knows that Grace is gone. There are so many plot points going on (does Ursula have a drug problem? Why is Angelica wearing a cilice chain? Why did Ian and Blanchard seem so close?). It'll be a struggle to wait for new episodes to drop each week. What do you think about season two so far? Who is in that trunk? What makes Gangtey unique is how deep you can stare into the valley where mountains overlap as far as the eye can see. Views from Gangtey Lodge (doubles from 540, gangteylodge.com), a small luxury hotel near the famous monastery, are otherworldly. We are staying in one of their 12 rooms, all facing the postcard-like landscapes of Phobjikha Valley, with white homes speckling the farmland. A generous-sized room, dominated by a large wooden window that looks aged beyond its years, looks out to blue pine trees that give way to the valley. You can ease into the view by lying in a bathtub in front of it. A cosy fireplace, a moody vanity area, and a comfortable lounge make for a homely setting. I'm sorry, but ADHD has become a scam that is wildly overdiagnosed and an excuse for poor behaviour I'm sorry, but ADHD has become a scam that is wildly overdiagnosed That is not an NFU tactic, we do not support emptying supermarket shelves, but I do completely understand the strength of feeling that there is amongst farmers, they feel helpless today, and theyre trying to think of what can they do to try and demonstrate what this means to them. Armed with a survey of parents who lambasted family court judges and magistrates for regularly ignoring signs of child abuse during custody disputes, legislators and court reform advocates are pressing for new domestic violence training mandates and other measures for judges and magistrates. This document brings to light the voices of Colorado citizens who have experienced firsthand the devastating impact of a broken system, according to an executive summary of the survey State Rep. Meg Froelich, D-Greenwood Village, shared last month with Monica Marquez, the chief justice of the Colorado Supreme Court. Through citizen survey data, it reveals how childrens disclosures of abuse are often ignored, protective parents are silenced by legal and financial intimidation and judicial professionals dismiss credible evidence to force contact with abusive parents, the executive summary further stated. The impetus for the survey stemmed from disclosures in The Denver Gazette over the jailing of Rachel Pickrel-Hawkins for objecting to court-ordered reunification therapy between her two youngest sons, aged 10 and 13, and her ex, who was accused of sexually abusing his three daughters and who had admitted to almost drowning an older son in a pool. After Larimer County District Court Judge Daniel McDonald ordered that mother to spend seven consecutive weekends in jail for resisting the reunification therapy, her ex, retired Aurora police Sgt. Michael Hawkins, was charged with seven felony counts of child sex abuse and a misdemeanor count of physical child abuse. The judge backtracked and dismissed the mothers jail sentence in the face of widespread criticism across the nation following reports in The Denver Gazette about the jailing of the mother. Michael Hawkins claims he is innocent of the criminal charges. The surveyors collected statements from more than 250 individuals who signed a petition expressing displeasure with how judges handled their child custody disputes. An analyst reviewed those statements for patterns and then broke down those patterns into statistical analysis. Among the findings: Nearly 70% of cases where a child was listed as a protected party on a criminal protection order involved a judge removing that child from the order to allow contact with an abusive parent. In more than 90% of cases where a parent was criminally charged for child abuse or neglect and the child disclosed abuse in forensic interviews, the family court judge still removed the child from a criminal protection order to force parenting time. Nearly half of the cases surveyed involved one parent having criminal charges while the other parent had their parenting time either supervised, restricted or reduced to no parenting time at all. In slightly more than 20% of the cases in which a parent had been criminally charged, the criminally charged parent accused the other parent of parental alienation. Protective parents have argued the theory of parental alienation, which holds that some parents deliberately turn their children against their other parents during custody disputes, has been used disproportionally to restrict their parenting time when theyve raised valid concerns of abuse. Froelich met in mid-October with Marquez at the Ralph L. Carr Colorado Judicial Center, home of the Colorado Supreme Court, to go over the survey results and discuss potential ways to address the concerns of court reform advocates. Were working on getting people informed on how the childs safety has to be the pre-eminent concern, Froelich said, adding that judges should not be lifting restraining orders to facilitate contact between an abusive parent and a child. That should never happen, Froelich said. Froelich and reform advocates also have pointed to sobering death statistics collected by The Center for Judicial Excellence, a nonprofit group that advocates family court reform. That group reports that at least 30 children in Colorado have been murdered by a separating or divorcing parent involved in a family court proceeding since 2010. A judicial training task force, created by the legislature, in a February report found that family court judges and magistrates are not required to undergo training on domestic violence and child abuse. Judges must every three years take classes on equity, diversity and inclusivity as well as on legal ethics or legal professionalism while having broad discretion to choose other areas of interest to fulfill their training obligations, according to the report. The task force referenced a 2023 survey of attorneys, mental health professionals and financial professionals who appear in family court proceedings who reported they found judges lacking in their knowledge of child custody issues, child maltreatment and domestic violence. Judges need to become sensitive to the impact trauma can have on victims, who experience loss of memory, may have difficulty remembering details and may act differently in court than expected, the task force said in the report. The task force recommended that the judiciary consider bolstering training on a host of issues that arise in family court, ranging from the impact of domestic violence on children, the role courts can have in protecting child victims, domestic violence lethality factors as well as the neurobiology of trauma and the presentation of victim dynamics. It said further study should be conducted on how Ohio has embarked on an educational initiative on domestic violence dynamics for its judges. Within the context of domestic violence relationships, Colorado judicial officers make findings of domestic violence but do not find the behavior is likely to continue, the task force further reported. There is a common misconception that children are in less danger once a couple is no longer living together. Froelich said she believes the chief justice genuinely wants to see movement in this area as does Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser. Weiser is working on a new training regimen for court-appointed professionals that make custody recommendations in custody disputes, and a report his office released suggested such standardized training also could be expanded to judges overseeing those cases. Marquez said in a prepared statement that the judiciary is is in the process of implementing the task force's recommendations and also is "exploring enhancements to our onboarding for new judges on these topics and others." She said new judicial education subcommittees are working on improving training for judges and magistrates on domestic violence and domestic relations. In addition, the judiciary is in discussions with the Colorado Attorney General on ways to improve the training for court-appointed parenting evaluators who make custody recommendations, she said. "These discussions are in their early stages, but we see value in a potential partnership in which the (attorney general's office) can support our efforts to develop a robust, uniform training for these professionals," Marquez said. Also attending the meeting with Froelich were Christine McGinley, the person who did the statistical analysis for the survey; Maralee McLean, executive director of the nonprofit Moms Fight Back; and Jaime Watman, the coordinator of the roster of parental evaluators eligible for court appointments in custody disputes. McGinley said that while the survey is not conducted by academics or a comprehensive, randomly selected sample of participants in family court, it still has validity. The whole point is to give people who have been silenced and live in fear and have suffered tremendously a way to add their voice to the issues in hopes of reform, McGinley said. A volunteer group called Project Justice Colorado conducted the survey, collecting anonymous statements, which were then winnowed to about 188 individual accounts for actual statistical analysis, McGinley said. Featured Local Savings One participant reported that her ex, who himself told police he should not be allowed to be alone with his children, still secured unsupervised parenting time with his children despite wielding a rifle in the presence of the children in one incident and brutally assaulting a total stranger in front of the children in another incident. My children have been subjected to tremendous fear and lack of safety, but also the violation of trust by professionals when they are ordered back into the unsupervised care of a mentally ill individual, that survey participant reported. Another mother reported that police bungled the testing of a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner kit collected from her two-year-old daughter amid allegations of child sexual abuse by her ex. Years later, the kit finally was tested, revealing the presence of semen, but her ex still had an odd explanation ready, she reported. The criminal charges were dropped, and her ex-husband picked up their daughter that same day for his 50% parenting time. Had I known, 13 years ago, what I know now, I may have never left my abuser, the mother reported. I might have stayed and settled for being abused, along with my daughter because at least we would be together, instead of apart while being abused. Survey participants reported spending an average of nearly $200,000 on their custody disputes. About 65% of the participants reported they made less than $100,000 annually. Those reporting lower income often reported their ex used greater financial resources to barrage them with relentless litigation. This deliberate financial warfare drains families of their assets, leading to devastating economic impacts, including the loss of homes, savings and the ability to meet their childrens basic needs, the survey report states. Project Justice now is collecting similar statements on parental responsibility evaluators and child and family investigators, whom family court judges appoint in contentious custody disputes to evaluate parenting and help guide custody rulings. The group plans to use those statements to determine whether court-appointed professionals that make parenting evaluations during custody disputes have potential biases and whether lawyers regularly ensure select evaluators are appointed to their cases because they are likely to favor their clients. The survey results have been shared with officials in the office of Gov. Jared Polis as well as with staffers of the Colorado Attorney General. Weiser is pushing plans to develop additional domestic violence training for court-appointed parental evaluators, which may extend to judges handling custody disputes. The legislature in 2023 required parental evaluators to complete at least 20 hours of initial training on domestic violence and child abuse and 15 additional hours of ongoing training every five years. But Weisers office in its annual report on the findings of the Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board said it does not appear that there are many eligible training offerings in Colorado, nor trainings that fully and accurately account for domestic violence dynamics within the family court system. In the past, the judiciary successfully resisted efforts by the legislative branch to mandate training on domestic violence and child abuse, Froelich said, because the judiciary believes lawmakers cannot impose mandates on a co-equal branch of government. Froelich said Marquez and Weiser now are contemplating a training regimen that would come from the judiciary itself. Were in a very preliminary phase and dont have anything to share at this point, said Lawrence Pacheco, the spokesperson for Weiser, who declined an interview request. One area of concern involves magistrates ruling on custody disputes who often begin hearing cases 30 minutes after they are sworn in, Froelich added. Is there an opportunity then to require onboarding training of magistrates? Froelich said. Theres a sense, and I think its borne out statistically, that family courts are one of the first rotations for magistrates. Weiser became concerned because of information presented to the Colorado Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board. His office chairs the board and appoints the members of the board. Annually, his office presents an annual report on domestic violence fatality data gathered by the board. This year, the boards annual report found involvement in family court is a risk factor for potential death. In speaking with advocates and victims across the state, it is evident that victims are not believed by various actors within the system and given the nature of DV (domestic violence), often lack evidence or outside corroboration of the abuse they have experienced, that report further stated. One member of the board is a Larimer County woman who repeatedly discussed the abuse she and her children faced from her ex-husband with the judges and multiple parental responsibility evaluators assigned to her family court case, the report added. She repeatedly presented evidence of risk factors ranging from her ex-husband punching holes in walls, stalking, gun ownership and expressing threats and threatening suicide. Unsupervised parenting time continued to be awarded to the father despite the mothers fears. He would go on to kill their daughters, age 8 and 6, in a murder/suicide in December 2022. Reform advocates said they would like to see magistrates and judges placed on suspension if a child is murdered following the dismissal of credible domestic or child abuse allegations raised during a custody dispute. During the suspension, an independent oversight committee should review judicial rulings in the custody dispute for potential error, the reform advocates say. Froelich, the legislator, said she regularly hears complaints that judges and magistrates still arent following a new law she successfully pushed the legislature to pass last year that placed new restrictions on the use of reunification therapy between children and abusive parents. That law barred judges from restricting the custody of a parent who is competent, protective and not abusive solely to improve a relationship with the other parent. It prohibited reunification treatment that is predicated on cutting off a relationship between a child and a protective parent with whom the child has a bond. Judges and magistrates may still be sorting through how to apply the new law, but in one hearing held in an Arapahoe County courtroom in September Magistrate Echo Ryan referenced the new law in refusing to restore parenting time to a father accused of violent abuse. The magistrate said at the conclusion of the hearing that given the new law, this court couldnt even begin to order the mother to take steps to address the resistance of the children to contact with their father. During that day-long hearing the father, who had moved to Texas after his ex-wife relocated there, repeatedly asserted he had a right to parent his children despite a history of domestic violence arrests, allegations of child abuse and violations of protection orders. In one arrest, he had been accused of kicking his then- pregnant wife as she crawled away from him and of strangling her, an attack she said left their son with developmental disabilities after his birth. The mother had pointed to her exs taking a life insurance policy out on their children as a sign of potential peril. Their daughter had reported in therapy seeing the father surreptitiously drug their mothers drink with a suspicious powder. The magistrate noted that while the father had made gains in addressing his anger issues, under the new law she could not even consider restoring his parenting time until he was assessed by a mental health professional approved by the Colorado Domestic Violence Offender Management Board. Mr Zelensky and many of his Western supporters have been pressing Biden for months to allow Ukraine to strike military targets inside Russia with Western-supplied missiles, saying the US ban had made it impossible for Ukraine to try to stop Russian attacks on its cities and electrical grids. The operational command of Poland's armed forces wrote on X that Polish and allied aircraft, including fighter jets, have been mobilised in Polish airspace because of the "massive" Russian attack on neighbouring Ukraine. The steps were aimed to provide safety in Poland's border areas, it said. Here are this weeks local business and nonprofit awards, acquisitions and donations: ACQUISITIONS Missouri-based SWADE Cannabis by BeLeaf Medical, acquired Good Day Farms, Rolla, Missouri. SWADE previously transitioned ownership of its Ellisville, Missouri dispensary to Good Day Farm as part of the purchase. HELPING OUT The David and Barbara Mungenast Charitable Foundation provided $9,000 for Hancock Place Elementary School, St. Louis, Missouri, to participate in the All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride Program. The funds supply everything, including bikes, to teach kids at the school how to ride in eight lessons. MILESTONE The community development nonprofit Rise celebrated 30 years of work towards revitalization of neighborhoods in the St. Louis area. The $122,780 raised at the Mississippi Mingle event will support the organizations efforts to develop affordable housing and commercial space that enhances economic diversity. MOVING Eagle Productions, a marketing and event management agency, relocated its headquarters from Clayton to 100 S. 4th Street, Suite 550, in downtown St. Louis, Missouri. RECOGNITION The St. Louis Area Business Health Coalition honored Barry-Wehmiller with the 2024 Business Health Culture award for the companys comprehensive approach to employee wellbeing. The Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County board of directors achieved Gold Level recognition in the League of E.A.G.L.E.S. Recognition Program at the Boys & Girls Club of America Midwest Leadership Conference in October. The BGCSTCs 2023 Annual Report also won the 2024 Midwest Region Marketing and Communications Award from Boys & Girls Clubs of America. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or chat live at 988lifeline.org. Uncertainty about the future and concern about past attitudes have created post-election stress for many members of the LGBTQ+ community, according to mental health professionals. Lauren Slye, vice president of outpatient clinical services at Diversus Health in Colorado Springs said people are experiencing valid feelings of disappointment, fear and loss, following the Nov. 5 victory of President-elect Donald Trump. That has led to acute stress, which typically happens quickly but doesnt last more than 30 days, she said. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and other people associated with the LGBTQ+ population have been on edge, said Rachel Keener, co-chair of the community advisory council of the Prism Community Collective. The center at 711 S. Tejon St., works with people affected by the Nov. 19, 2022, shooting at Club Q, a gay nightclub in Colorado Springs. At this point, a lot of marginalized people are concerned about what life looks like, she said. Conditions were precarious before; now theres a sense of urgency in figuring out where we fit in all of it, refocusing and looking at next steps. According to translegislation.com, 665 anti-trans bills regarding health care, education, legal recognition and the right to publicly exist were introduced across the country in 43 states. Of those, a large majority of 492 failed, 45 passed and 128 are active, according to the tracking site. Appointments for clinical therapy and counseling at Prism Community Collective have been full since the election, said Keener, who also works as senior manager for health equity at Community Health Partnership, an organization that oversees Prism. Mirroring a nationwide trend, calls to Prism inquiring about services also have increased, she said. The Trevor Project, the nations leading mental health organization for LGBTQ+ youth, reported a 700% surge in calls to its crisis line after the election. Diversus last week began a regular schedule of providing clinicians at Prism, Slye said. Peak Vista Community Health Centers also supplies mental health professionals for Prism users. This was a very charged campaign season, Slye said. It can feel like the world is against some of the marginalized populations. What was considered anti-trans messaging appeared in pro-Trump advertising that turned the use of the pronoun they and them into an us vs. them type of juxtaposition. Now, many dont see how the situation could not devolve under the incoming administration, Prism leaders said. Speaking as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, Keener said transgender and gender-expansive people have been the target of increased negativity and hate for months leading up to the presidential election. The rhetoric and the concern about rights is absolutely focused on impacting the transgender and trans-expansive community the most thats undeniable, she said, adding that issues surrounding marriage, gender identity, name changes, legal matters and health are of most concern. FBI data released in September showed that hate crimes motivated by gender-identity and sexual orientation rose from 2022 to 2023. The FBI reported 2,936 incidents related to sexual-orientation and gender-identity bias in 2023, an increase of nearly 9% from about 2,700 in 2022. This community is resilient and taking care of themselves but needs support right now, Keener said. Looking at social media, particularly doom scrolling, or focusing on speculation about what might happen in the future, can contribute to mental anguish by fueling anxiety and fears, Slye said. To reduce that, she recommends limiting social media by vowing to scroll only three times a day for 10 minutes each and setting a timer to stick to the pledge. Featured Local Savings As the holidays approach, setting boundaries with people who have differing views also can help protect mental well-being, Slye said. Determine what you can control and what you cannot control, she said, and "join advocacy groups to have a voice in trying to protect your rights. Also, Avoid the worst-case scenarios, engage in physical activity, practice mindfulness, ground yourself in nature, hold something soft in your hands if you are exposed to something negative, and develop other positive habits to manage stress, Slye said. Seeking safe spaces Since opening in June, interest in the Prism Community Collective has steadily increased, said site director Stoney Roberts. In addition to individual counseling, peer support groups run by the local office of the National Alliance on Mental Health are offered weekly. Social connections such as game nights and virtual programming have been popular, Roberts said, and the space has become an accepted hangout. Theres also free gender-affirming clothing donated by supporters. As the Nov. 19 anniversary of the Club Q shooting approaches and with political stress lingering, its important for LGBTQ+ people to seek people and places that give a sense of belonging, Prism leaders said. People want a space to decompress with peers about how theyre feeling and knowing what safety feels like, Roberts said. The Club Q mass shooting, which authorities defined as a hate crime, shows what the most extreme outcomes of what anti-LGBTQ and trans-rhetoric looks like, Keener said. Messages of hate have consequences. Thats everyones fear. In June, shooter Anderson Lee Aldrich, 24, formerly of Colorado Springs, was sentenced to 55 concurrent life sentences to run consecutive to 190 years in prison after pleading guilty to 74 hate crimes and firearms charges. According to the plea agreement, Aldrich admitted to murdering five people, injuring 19 and attempting to murder 26 more in a willful, deliberate, malicious and premediated attack at the nightclub, according to the U.S. Justice Department. Led by a gay governor and with many favorable laws in place, Colorado as a whole is viewed as LGBTQ+ friendly. The state has become a safe haven for the LGBTQ+ community, said Cal Solverson, spokesperson for One Colorado, the state's primary advocacy group for LGBTQ+ rights. Its status was further bolstered, he said, by voters passing two state Constitutional amendments on Nov. 5 to repeal the definition that only a union of one man and one woman is valid or recognized as marriage in Colorado and enshrine abortion and allow taxpayer dollars to subsidize abortions for women on Medicaid. More LGBTQ+ people, particularly transgenders, are inquiring about moving here, according to Trans Continental Pipeline, a queer relocation nonprofit in Denver. We have seen a massive increase in new aid requests, its website states. As a result, the organization is training new relocation managers, adding more resources and expanding to other safe states, the message says. Because amid a common sentiment of discomfort and fear, theres a sense of optimism that Colorado's support won't crumble, Solverson said. The community is heavily leaning into our past of fighting for our freedom and rights, Solverson said. Most of us realize that we are a strong community who has done this before, and we'll do it again for as long as we have to until every person has the right to exist freely and fully as they are. El Paso County, which historically has been politically conservative and was ground zero for anti-gay legislation in the early 1990s, has been recognized for improving acceptance and compassion for the LGBTQ+ community, particularly since the Club Q shooting. Deep down, people in Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region care about each other and that our community is safe and inclusive of everyone, Keener said. I have a lot of faith in this community in making sure we support all people, and I hope that continues. Boeing was flying high in mid-2018 with record plane deliveries, record revenue and a record-high stock price. Then came two fatal crashes of its 737 Max aircraft, followed by a global pandemic. Years of regulatory scrutiny and snarled supply chains ensued, coming at the same time Boeings defense unit was losing money because it bid too aggressively on fixed-price contracts. Boeing lost a total of $24 billion between 2019 and 2023, and $8 billion more in the first nine months of 2024. Its share price is 67% below the 2018 high. That includes a 50% drop this year amid more turbulence: A door plug blew off an Alaska Airlines 737 in flight, the Starliner spaceship was deemed unsafe after ferrying astronauts to the International Space Station and an eight-week machinists strike crippled airliner production. The strike ended Nov. 4, but new Chief Executive Kelly Ortberg has a long list of things that need fixing before he can stop the red ink and the embarrassing headlines. Culture is at the top of the list. Boeing was once famous for a corporate ethos that prized quality and safety above all, but that shifted subtly under a series of bottom-line-focused leaders. They had lost a little focus on the quality side, said Jeff Windau, an analyst at Edward Jones. The root cause was trying to get more planes out the door to generate cash. The sacrifice of safety was a byproduct, it wasnt the intent, said Scott Hamilton, managing director at consulting firm Leeham Co. When you have the CEO, backed up by the board, pressing for cost cuts so you can improve margins, those cost cuts will eventually trickle down to safety. Richard Aboulafia, managing director at AeroDynamic Advisory, believes Boeings rocky labor relations are also a consequence of the cultural shift in the executive suite. They put profits over capability and regarded the workforce as a tertiary concern, he said. This is not the happiest crew youre going to meet, as evidenced by the strike. Boeing does have some things going for it. Its order book is strong, and demand for air travel is robust enough to keep both Boeing and Airbus, its main rival, busy for years to come. Analysts warn, though, that the turnaround wont be quick. Hamilton thinks Boeing will need 5 years to get airliner production back to where it was in 2018, and 10 years to pay down debt and rebuild the strong balance sheet it had pre-pandemic. Its taken almost three decades to get where they are, Hamilton said. Its not going to be fixed in three weeks or three months or three years. The balance sheet is important because at some point in the 2030s, Boeing will need to launch a replacement for its workhorse 737 line. Building an all-new plane is a bet-the-farm kind of investment, not the kind of move a weakened company can contemplate. Meanwhile, any number of internal stumbles or external hurdles could delay Boeings recovery. Aboulafia worries that Boeings recent layoff announcement aimed at cutting 10% of the workforce could drive away talented engineers and other staffers the company needs. Another danger on the horizon: President-elect Donald Trumps proposed tariffs could ignite a trade war. If theyre serious about what theyre saying, Boeing is destroyed, Aboulafia said. You lose the China market, and you get retaliation from Europe. Thats what you call an existential threat. But for 172 votes and William Jennings Bryans silver tongue, Harry S Truman probably wouldnt be the only president who hailed from Missouri. James Beauchamp Champ Clark of Bowling Green, speaker of the U.S. House from 1911 to 1919, was Missouris favorite son and the front-runner going into the 1912 Democratic National Convention at the Baltimore armory. It was an exhausting event that ran from June 25 until July 2, when Clarks support finally collapsed and his main rival, New Jersey Gov. Woodrow Wilson, was nominated on the 46th ballot. One week before, Republicans had imploded in a disastrous convention in Chicago, where they renominated President William Taft over former president Theodore Roosevelts vigorous objections. Roosevelt bolted and ran as an independent candidate, virtually assuring a Democratic victory in November. Clark, born in Kentucky, moved to northeast Missouri at age 25 and got into local politics. He was elected to Congress in 1892 and became known as a folksy, powerful orator, diligent legislator and party organizer. Fellow Democrats made him minority leader in 1907 and speaker in 1911, after they won a House majority. Clark began angling for the White House. His boosters sang a rewording of a popular ditty known as the hound dog. The Missouri delegation arrived in Baltimore with a pack of 16 Ozark hounds. Clark men took to calling themselves houn dawgs. Clark won the first ballot on June 28 with 440.5 delegates to Wilsons 324, with the remaining 323.5 split among seven also-rans. He pushed his support to 554.5 votes on the 13th ballot, but needed 726 two thirds to win. Determined to finish it, his operatives courted Charles Silent Charlie Murphy, boss of New Yorks Tammany Hall machine. That became Bryans cue to play kingmaker. The Nebraska populist may have led the Democrats to defeat three times as their presidential candidate, but he still held an electric grip on party sentiment. While Clark had won the Nebraska primary, Bryan hinted that he found Wilson more charming. Bryan voted for Clark in the first rounds. But when New York threw its 90 delegates to Clark on June 29, he pounced: I shall withhold my vote from Mr. Clark as long as New York votes for him. Clark condemned Bryans outrageous aspersions and took a fast train to Baltimore. He worked a long night from his hotel headquarters, but couldnt stop the drift of delegates to Wilson. The party offered Clark the vice-presidential nomination, but he said hed take it only if Wilson repudiated Bryan an impossible condition. Clark kept the House gavel seven more years and was defeated back home in the 1920 Republican landslide. Clark, 70, died in Washington on March 2, 1921, two days after leaving office. He was buried in Bowling Green. His son, Bennett Clark, served Missouri in the U.S. Senate from 1933 until 1945, the year Truman became president. Champ Clark is the only Missourian to have served as House speaker. The bridge over the Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo., is named in his honor. The showdown over who gets to pick St. Louis Countys next prosecutor is about more than just competing legal arguments. Its also yet another demonstration that the once-sacrosanct Republican principle of respecting local control no longer exists at least not in situations where it would benefit Democrats. St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bells congressional electoral victory on Nov. 5 means he will be headed for Washington, D.C., in January, opening a mid-term vacancy for the job of top county cop. The countys charter says County Executive Sam Page, a Democrat, must appoint a replacement. But Republican Gov. Mike Parson claims the Missouri Constitution gives him superseding authority to make the appointment. There appear to be rational legal arguments on both sides, but one very clear precedent: When St. Charles County was in an identical situation last year, and its Republican county executive moved to appoint a prosecutor to fill a vacancy, Parson stayed out of it. Its a reasonable precedent that he should adhere to now. Section 4 of the Missouri Constitution says: The governor shall fill all vacancies in public offices unless otherwise provided by law Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, a Republican, argues that passage lets Parson step in and appoint Bells replacement. Pages office counters that there is an otherwise provided by law exception here: the county charter, which specifies that the county executive must fill vacant county posts. Bailey and Parson have tried to muddy the issue by noting that when former St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kimberly M. Gardner was forced to resign, Parson appointed her replacement, Gabe Gore. Thats an irrelevant red herring, because the city doesnt have the same charter language as the county, and city leaders supported Parsons involvement. A better comparison is St. Charles County, whose charter contains the same language regarding appointments as St. Louis Countys. When St. Charles County Prosecuting Attorney Tim Lohmar resigned last year, Republican County Executive Steve Ehlmann appointed his replacement, Joseph McCulloch. We didnt contact the governors office, Ehlmann told the Post-Dispatchs Joe Holleman, and we never heard from them either. Go figure. Bailey and Parson may claim that its their prerogative to decide whether to bigfoot into a local appointment decision, but the very constitutional passage they cite doesnt indicate that: The governor shall (emphasis added) fill all vacancies in public offices unless otherwise provided by law, it says. That would seem to mean that either the governor must intervene in all cases, or must stay completely out of the ones covered by other laws one or the other. If theres a constitutional provision that says Parson gets to decide which part of that passage to ignore based on partisan politics, let him cite it. Otherwise, he should get his meddling nose out of this local decision. Dear Future Generations: on Nov. 5, 2024, more than 1.5 million Missourians voted in favor of Amendment 3 to enshrine the right to abortion in our state constitution. And media outlets such as this one heralded this era with editorials like, "Missouris fight to protect reproductive rights isnt over. Its just beginning." (Nov. 10). Amendment 3 proponents campaigned on the premise that the government shall not discriminate against persons providing or obtaining reproductive health care. But they did so while failing to acknowledge that abortion is the worst kind of discrimination the kind against innocent children based on their age (zygote or fetus vs. newborn or infant); where they live (womb vs. world); their circumstances (good vs. bad); and their viability (dependent vs. independent). To distract voters from this hypocrisy, Amendment 3 advocates capitalized on devastating and worst-case scenarios to scare people into believing expecting mothers in crisis will face death rather than receive care and to frame abortion as compassionate health care in cases of rape and incest rather than what it is: the death sentence for innocent babies conceived in horrific circumstances. If, God forbid, we are still killing our own in the name of reproductive freedom in the future, please remember what generations before you have tragically forgotten: Discrimination is always wrong, and human rights apply to all humans pre-born and born. Speak and live out these truths in love, and never give up. Because one day, all eyes will be opened to the horror of what we have done. Barbara Shippy St. Louis Hills A member of Japan's Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade rappels down a cliff at the Jungle Warfare Training Center on Okinawa, Feb. 26, 2024. (Tyler Andrews/U.S. Marine Corps) Japans amphibious army unit will join annual U.S. Marine Corps rotations to Australias Northern Territory, the three allies top civilian defense leaders said Sunday. Lloyd Austin, in what is likely his last trip to the region as U.S. defense secretary, along with Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles and Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani, announced the plan when they met at the northern Australian port of Darwin. The United States has sent growing numbers of troops to Australia since 250 Marines kicked off annual rotations to Darwin in 2012. Marine Rotational Force-Darwin, which operates in Australia from April to October, has grown to more than 2,000 members. Starting next year, they will be joined by members of Japans relatively new Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade, the three ministers said in a joint statement following their meeting. The announcement comes amid concerns about Chinas military buildup and potential for conflict over disputes in the Taiwan Strait and in the South and East China Seas. The ministers, in their statement, called for peaceful resolution of issues in the Taiwan Strait and expressed concern about Chinas destabilizing actions, including dangerous conduct against Philippine and other coastal state vessels. The three nations will conduct annual amphibious training in northern Australia and elsewhere in the Indo-Pacific, beginning with next years large-scale biennial Talisman Sabre drills in Australia, the defense ministers said. The last exercise involved 30,000 mostly U.S. and Australian troops training over 14 days with smaller contingents from Europe and across the Pacific. Japan will, from next year, increase its contribution to Talisman Sabre, as well as another annual exercise in Australia, Southern Jackaroo, the ministers joint statement said. Meanwhile, Australian troops will train alongside U.S. and Japanese forces during the Orient Shield exercise in Japan from next year and enhance their participation in other drills there, including Yama Sakura, Keen Edge and Keen Sword, the ministers said. We continue to grow trilateral intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region as a priority, the statement said. The allies also plan enhanced trilateral airpower cooperation, according to the statement. Our countries intend to continue to work together to strengthen regional deterrence, including through cooperating on a networked air and missile defense architecture to counter the growing range of threats throughout the Indo-Pacific, the statement said. Japans consultations with members of the AUKUS Australia, United Kingdom and United States pact are welcome with the initial focus on improved cooperation with Japans maritime drones, the statement said. Austin travels next to the Philippines, Laos and Fiji, according to a Department of Defense statement Tuesday. The sun rises over the newest Navy ship USS Nantucket and the oldest Navy ship, the USS Constitution, on the USS Nantuckets commissioning day in Boston, Nov. 16, 2024. (EJ Hersom/U.S. Navy) The USS Nantucket was commissioned at a ceremony in Boston, Mass., on Saturday morning, three years after it was first launched and five years after construction began. The USS Nantucket is a littoral combat ship, or LCS. LCS-class ships are small, agile vessels meant for operating in near-shore environments. The LCS program was initiated in 2002. The LCS class has two variants Freedom and Independence, each of which is built by a different industry team. Lockheed Martin leads the construction of Freedom-variant ships like the Nantucket, while Austal USA heads the building of Independence-variant ships. The USS Nantucket (LCS-27) is the 14th Freedom-variant LCS commissioned by the U.S. Navy, and the third Navy ship to bear the name Nantucket, according to a service press release issued Saturday. Saturdays ceremony featured several high-profile speakers, including Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey, U.S. Rep. Bill Keating, a Lockheed Martin executive and two Navy officials. As the events master of ceremonies noted, the USS Nantucket stood stern to stern with the iconic USS Constitution, which is the nations oldest warship. It is now a museum in Bostons Charlestown Navy Yard. Cmdr. Kari Yakubisin, commanding officer of the USS Nantucket (LCS 27) escorts Maura Healey, the governor of Massachusetts, into the commissioning ceremony for the USS Nantucket in Boston, Nov. 16, 2024. (EJ Hersom/U.S. Navy) The crew of the newest Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Nantucket (LCS 27) brings the ship to life during its commissioning ceremony in Boston, Nov. 16, 2024. (EJ Hersom/U.S. Navy) In his remarks, Lockheed Martin executive Paul Lemmo praised the innovation behind the ship and class. This vessel represents a significant leap forward in technology, he said, adding that it is even more vital now that maritime threats are more complex than ever. Both Lemmo and the press release highlighted the MK 70 Payload Delivery System, which was on the deck of the USS Nantucket during the ceremony and will be equipped on other LCS class ships. The system provides mid-range precision firing capabilities, and according to Lemmo, it is modular enough that it can be quickly fitted to nontraditional platforms as needed. During the week prior to the commissioning ceremony, the ships crew visited the Boston area as well as the ships namesake, Nantucket, Mass., according to an earlier Navy press release. The USS Nantuckets sailors spent Veterans Day with local veterans at the New England Veterans Home and were able to learn more about Nantuckets history, per the release. The USS Nantucket will be homeported in Naval Station Mayport, Fla., Saturdays release said. The LCS program has been dogged by controversy throughout the years. In 2015 and 2016, several ships in the class broke down at sea, and the cost of the program has come to far exceed its initial estimates. A Government Accountability Office report from 2022 and a ProPublica investigation published last year have indicated the program overly relies on contractors rather than the Navys own personnel for maintenance on the ships. In recent years the Navy has moved to address some of the issues, such as through expanding the use of Maintenance Execution Teams groups of sailors that can perform maintenance on the littoral combat ships in the place of contractors. A live stream of Saturdays ceremony can be viewed below. Special Operations Command North members dedicate their headquarters building during a ceremony on Peterson Space Force Base, Colo., Nov. 15, 2024. (Joshua Armstrong/U.S. Special Operations Command ) As conflict with Russia and China looms, special forces in the U.S. military are going through a renaissance, reflected in a new $55 million Special Operations Command North headquarters on Peterson Space Force Base. Special Operations Command leader Col. Matt Tucker called the building emblematic of the renaissance. Its dedication represents an opportunity to make a clear-eyed assessment of the threats that face our homelands, he said Friday. For Special Operations Command, Russia and China are among those threats as it works to carry out missions from the Arctic Circle all the way down to the southern border of Mexico, Puerto Rico and the Bahamas. Those missions operate under Northern Command, just down the road on the base, making Colorado Springs a good location for the headquarters. During the ceremony, the building was named after Maj. Gen. Robert Frederick, who led the combined Canadian-American 1st Special Service Force during World War II, a group that gave rise to special forces. Fredericks grandson Brad Hicks said he felt his grandfather would be blown away, that he was not only remembered 80 years later, but honored. Hicks was a child when his grandfather died, and the significance of his actions dawned on him more fully, when he attended a reunion of the 1st Special Service Force as a teenager and former members told him there was nothing they wouldnt do for his grandfather, because he would never ask them to do something he wouldnt do himself. These men came up to me in tears, honored to meet me, he said. The dedication is particularly appropriate as the threats across the world echo the 1940s, Tucker said. For years, the Special Operations Command North was focused on counterterrorism, but has since shifted to conflicts with large nations. To prepare at the command, more training has focused on the Arctic as China and Russia started spending more time in the resource-rich area. Chinese and Russian ships and planes also have trained together in the region. Tucker expects an increasing level of competition in the Arctic, and the members of his command, including civilians and service members from the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines and Space Force have helped plan and execute training in the Arctic working with other units. The bitter cold in those conditions requires specialized equipment, medical care and clothing. The command staff is working to ensure the right gear is provided after the U.S. military spent 20 years focused on desert environments. Were playing a leading role in that, Command Sgt. Major Kevin Dorsh said. They are also drawing on the experience of the Alaskan Native communities in the area and European Arctic partners, to learn how to travel and survive in the Arctic, Tucker said. While Special Operations Commands are typically largely closed to public, as part of the celebrations, the building opened for tours, attended largely by former command staff. As they entered the expansive joint operations command room, a former staff member noted the space had more seats than the number of employees the command had in its infancy. With rows of desks with room for about 70, facing an enormous layout of monitors, the room provides space for the command to work with other agencies, including law enforcement, said Joe Esposito, deputy director of operations. The building also features workspace for the dedicated signal battalion to train, space for vehicles outfitted to provide communications and a new gym, where training is integrated with behavioral health. In the integrated model, service members can talk to a behavioral health specialist as they are training, explained Ryan Wood, the commands strength and conditioning specialist. We found that as people are training, the barriers kind of fall and people open up more so, he said. In the coming weeks, more command staff will move into their new home from a few buildings, including an aging hangar. The Frankenstein building features modular offices, with the open hangar ceiling above them and a large bay door facing the runway that the staff would open on nice days. Its been home. Its got a great startup feel to it, Tucker said, noting he expected to be nostalgic for it. (c)2024 The Gazette. Visit at www.gazette.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Second Lt. Thomas V. Kelly Jr. is the middle figure in the back row, standing, with his .45 pistol in a shoulder holster, in this crew photo for the Heaven Can Wait bomber in Papua New Guinea. The ring recovered from the wreckage is visible on his left hand. (Courtesy of Scott Althaus) The remains of an Army aviator recovered last year from the wreckage of his submerged bomber have been officially identified as those of 2nd Lt. Thomas V. Kelly Jr. of Livermore, Calif., the Defense Department said. The Friday announcement came a year and a half after the Navy conducted a dramatic, high-tech descent to the Pacific Ocean crash site in a diving bell, recovering human remains, several dog tags and Kellys Army Air Forces ring. It was Kellys family that 11 years ago launched a project to investigate the story of the B-24 bomber nicknamed Heaven Can Wait, produced a detailed report and helped pinpoint the crash site. Its hard to believe, said Scott Althaus, a first cousin once removed and a professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, who led the familys efforts. Its such an impossible story. He praised the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), the Navy and Project Recover, the nonprofit that used its underwater resources to find the plane in 2017. Its this collective endeavor that has produced a miracle, he said in a telephone interview Friday. And Im still trying to wrap my head around that. Kathy Borst, one of Kellys nieces, who never knew him, said in a telephone interview Saturday: It feels complete. And I think putting his remains, whats left of them, in the ground in Livermore with his family will feel like closing the book on a story. Heaven Can Wait was shot down by Japanese antiaircraft gunners off the coast of the Pacific island of New Guinea on March 11, 1944, taking Kelly and 10 others to their deaths. Kelly was 21. In the spring of 2023, a team of elite Navy divers and archaeologists from the DPAA conducted a five-week search near Hansa Bay on the northeast coast of New Guinea for Heaven Can Wait. It was the deepest underwater recovery mission for the DPAA, the government agency that seeks to account for service members missing in action from past wars. The crash site was in about 200 feet of water about 10 miles from an active volcano. It was the first time the Navys SAT FADS Saturation Fly-Away Diving System had been used in such a role, the Navy said. The diving bell used to study the wreckage of Heaven Can Wait in the Pacific Ocean. (Michael E. Ruane/The Washington Post) The diving apparatus, somewhat like a space station, included a pressurized habitat where the divers lived aboard the ship, and a pressurized diving bell, which they used to reach the bottom. The system allowed them to work in the pressure of deep water for long periods without having to decompress after each dive, the Navy said. They only needed to decompress at the end of the project. Once on the bottom, the divers exited the diving bell and gathered material from the crash site into big baskets that were hauled up to the ship to be sifted for artifacts. Despite almost 80 years on the bottom, the wreckage was down far enough that DPAA experts were confident that human bones and material artifacts would be preserved. The DPAA said Kellys remains were identified through dental and anthropological analysis. Scientists from the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System matched DNA from the remains with DNA from Kellys family. A ring identified as having belonged to 2nd Lt. Thomas V. Kelly Jr. recovered from the wreckage of Heaven Can Wait. (DPAA) The identification was made on Sept. 25. In addition to Kellys ring, the divers found two of his dog tags. Along with Kellys remains, those of the planes radio operator Eugene J. Darrigan, 26, of Wappingers Falls, N.Y., and navigator 2nd Lt. Donald W. Sheppick, 26, of Roscoe, Pennsylvania, south of Pittsburgh, were identified on Sept. 20, the DPAA has said. The divers recovered two of Sheppicks dog tags and a corroded dog tag bearing the partial name of Darrigans 23-year-old wife, Florence, as an emergency contact. In one of his last letters home to his parents, Kelly wrote: I dont want you to feel sorry for me. Im just telling you to appreciate what you have. Even if you dont think it is much. It is so much. The men fighting here for everyone, theyre doing it for your freedom. Althaus said Kelly will be buried in his hometown on Memorial Day. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un poses with troops in this image released by the state-run Korean Central News Agency, March 7, 2024. (KCNA) North Korea may deploy as many as 100,000 troops to aid Russias war on Ukraine if the alliance between Pyongyang and Moscow continues to deepen, according to people familiar with assessments made by some Group of 20 nations. The analysis is one of several on the evolving partnership between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, said the people, speaking on condition of anonymity to talk about private discussions. They stressed that such a move wasnt imminent and that military support at that scale if it occurred would likely happen in batches with troops rotating over time rather than in a single deployment. Ukraines ambassador to South Korea made a similar assessment earlier this month. Dmytro Ponomarenko said in an interview with VOA that Kyiv expected up to 15,000 North Korean troops deployed to fight in Russias Kursk region and possibly in occupied areas of eastern Ukraine to rotate every few months. Spokespeople for South Koreas Defense Ministry and Presidential Office didnt respond to requests for comment. Kims decision to send North Korean troops to join Russias fight against Ukraine has alarmed Kyivs allies, whove warned that it risks exacerbating what is already Europes largest conflict since World War II. They believe the deepening cooperation between Putin and Kim could also impact the security balance in the Indo-Pacific region, where theres mounting rivalry between China and the U.S. The issue will be raised by several allies at the G-20 Summit in Brazil this week including by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz when he meets Chinese President Xi Jinping, Bloomberg previously reported. Scholz told Putin Friday in a rare phone call that the deployment of North Korean troops was a grave escalation of the war against Ukraine. Scholz will press the Chinese leader at their meeting in Rio on Tuesday to use his influence over Russia and North Korea to avoid further escalation in the war, according to German officials. The North Korean deployment shows the war is becoming globalized, and Scholz and Xi will need to discuss this new dimension of the conflict, the officials said. Worries were also raised by allies at the APEC gathering in Lima, Peru, this past week, another person said. Xi has been the biggest benefactor to Putin and Kim in recent years, and sees both leaders as partners in pushing against the U.S-led world order. But his government has remained silent publicly on the dispatch of North Korean troops to Russia a sign the Chinese president may be unhappy with the arrangement. The Kim-Putin partnership risks adding economic pressure on China, just as Xi is bracing for potential disruption from tariffs threatened by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump when he returns to the White House. It also undermines Beijings argument that the U.S. shouldnt have military alliances in the Indo-Pacific region. China doesnt allow conflict and turmoil to happen on the Korean Peninsula and it wont sit idly by when its strategic security and core interests are under threat, Xi told U.S. President Joe Biden at talks Saturday on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Lima. North Korea has so far sent more than 10,000 troops to fight alongside Putins army in Russias Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces have occupied part of the border territory since a surprise incursion in August. In return, Russia is providing money and helping North Korea increase its capabilities. South Korea has said theres a high chance that North Korea will seek cutting-edge technology transfers from Russia including technology related to tactical nuclear weapons, intercontinental ballistic missiles, reconnaissance satellites and ballistic missile submarines. As well as manpower, North Korea has also sent millions of rounds of artillery ammunition and other weapons to Russia. The Financial Times reported this week, citing Ukrainian intelligence, that Pyongyang has supplied Moscow with long-range rocket and artillery systems too. Ukraine has been asking allies for months to allow it to use Western-provided long-range weapons to strike military targets deep inside Russia as a way to counter Moscows attacks including on energy infrastructure in the country. With assistance from Soo-Hyang Choi. 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Visit bloomberg.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Jury hears how Conor and pals had a booze and cocaine-filled night before heading to hotel The public were given a rare glimpse into the privileged party lifestyle of Conor McGregor when the sports star gave evidence this week during civil proceedings taken by Nikita Hand against him and his friend James Lawrence. Ms Hand, a mother of one, is suing the men, alleging she was raped by the pair in the Beacon Hotel in Dublin on December 9, 2018. Both men deny the allegations and say they had consensual sex with Ms Hand. On day six of the trial, Ms Hands legal team rested their case, and Mr McGregors began. In the courtroom, the media bench was packed to the rafters with elbows knocking as journalists typed ferociously. A surplus of reporters stood at the back of the courtroom taking notes on their mobile phones. Nikita Hand claims she was raped in the hotel McGregor had been absent from court that morning telling the court he was unwell, the 36-year-old walked past the onlooking media as he strode to the witness box. He recounted to the court that on Saturday December 8 he was at the home he was renting in The K-Club, Co Kildare, resting after he spent some time earlier in the day training. McGregor and his fiancee Deirdre Dee Devlin were renting the 1m home in the exclusive Ladycastle community within the five-star resort in Co Kildare from 2016 until July 2019. The couple then purchased their dream home in nearby Straffan from Albert Reynolds Jnr, the son of the former Taoiseach, for 3m, where they reside today. McGregor said he heard about a club night taking place in Dublin city centre, and added that while he would usually drive himself around, he asked one of the security guards at his home to drive him there as he planned to have a few drinks. Conor McGregor and his father Tony going to court After leaving the club with a crowd of people, including James Lawrence, he moved on to Krystle nightclub where he ordered rounds of drinks to his private table, describing how later cocaine was produced, and stayed there partying until 6am or 7am. McGregor told the court that he ended up with a gang of people and, in search of an after-party, they began driving around. He told the court he asked his security guard to book a hotel room for him, with later evidence to the court stating that the room had been booked at 4.30am. In cross examination by Mr John Gordon SC for Nikita Hand, McGregor shared that he had previously booked hotel rooms after nights out, telling the court that hed usually get a hotel room to sleep, shower, have breakfast and use the gym before returning home. Conor McGregor When it was suggested to him that the reason he would book a hotel was to bring back girls for sex he denied the claim, adding that he would book hotel rooms to facilitate an after-party. In further testimony, he said that he was in Krystle nightclub with a group of girls who left with him and they drove around in his car before he and his driver dropped them home. Mr Gordon put it to McGregor that after the girls left, he contacted Nikita Hand who was to be a replacement. He denied this, saying that he was still partying, as were Nikita and her friend Danielle Kealy, and he had just wanted to continue the night with them. James Lawrence Nikita and Conor had been in contact on Instagram the night prior and following further contact he was driven to the hair salon where Nikita and Danielle were. He collected them after 10am. They got into his chauffeur-driven car and drove around before collecting James Lawrence at his home in Drimnagh. Lawrence was in bed asleep with his girlfriend when his long-time friend came to his house. The group then went to the Beacon Hotel to a penthouse suite paid for by McGregor, and ordered bottles of alcohol to the room just after 12pm. McGregors bank card was also used to buy condoms for James, who in his testimony said he used all three having sex with Ms Kealy, while she says sex only occurred once. It also emerged that McGregor paid for his co-defendants legal fees after he initially told the court its quite possible I paid for him, I get staggering legal fees in relation to these lies, I dont check them. When pushed further by Judge Alexander Owens who asked did you pay for his legal fees or did you not? he conceded: I believe I did. Danielle Kealey Nikita Hand alleges that Conor McGregor raped her in the bedroom of the penthouse suite, while he claims the sex was consensual, both agree no condom was used. The pair then fell asleep. McGregor was driven home by a security guard who also brought Ms Kealy back to her home in Naas. Nikita and James remained at the hotel and returned to the room later. James said he had sex with Nikita Hand in the hotel room twice, with condoms he got from the security guard. Ms Hand says she has no memory of sex with James Lawrence and described his version of events as another made up story. When they left, James said he gave Nikita money for a taxi. She then went to the home of her friend Eimear Brennan, and told her that she had been raped, but would not identify the man who raped her. Eimear Brennan Further evidence heard how Nikita Hands Christmas party on December 8 led to her covered in bruises, and being examined in the Sexual Assault Treatment Unit in the Rotunda hospital on the morning of December 10. As the evidence in the trial has drawn to a close, the jury is set to return to Court 24 on Tuesday where they will hear closing statements in the case. To hear a full synopsis of the case, you can listen to Crime World now wherever you get your podcasts. He has too many enemies, too many people with scores to settle and who wont hesitate to take action. The Sunday World tracks down former UVF Godfather Mark Haddock to his lair in England. Mount Vernon loyalist paramilitary leader and British Special Branch informer Haddock, who has been named by various sources in connection with more than twenty-one murders. UVF commander Mark Haddock who is now currently on the run Terry Fairfield who was stabbed by Mark Haddock Mark Haddock was tracked down previously by the Sunday World UVF chiefs have warned Special Branch spy Mark Haddock he can never return to Northern Ireland. The former commander of the terror groups notorious Mount Vernon unit has been warned never to set foot in his homeland again. Haddock is 10 years into a 12-year sentence for a knife attack on fellow RUC agent Terry Fairfield. Fairfield had been living in England under a new identity and was joined by Haddock. After a fallout, Haddock lunged at Fairfield, slitting his throat. Fairfield required 27 stitches for the gaping wound while exiled UVF chief Haddock found himself in an English jail. This week the 55-year-old mobster ended a legal challenge to being denied repatriation back to Northern Ireland. He issued judicial review proceedings against the Prison Service after being refused permission to complete the remainder of the term in Northern Ireland. Terry Fairfield who was stabbed by Mark Haddock But the challenge was formally dismissed at the High Court on Wednesday amid indications that Haddock may be set to achieve his original objective. His barrister said: The matter is now resolved and is academic. Should he get his way and return to Northern Ireland he has been warned there will be no safe place for him even in jail. Haddock headed up the Mount Vernon unit at a time when it was riddled with RUC agents. As commander he oversaw a sectarian killing machine responsible for at least a dozen murders most of which were carried out with knowledge of his police handlers. Haddock and a number of others were expelled from the terror group after a Police Ombudsman report lifted the lid on wholesale collusion between police handlers and Mount Vernon killers. In return for statements given implicating former members of Mount Vernon UVF, he was given a new identity and a life outside Northern Ireland. He later withdrew his statements in return for the UVF allowing members of his family to remain in the estate. His partner still lives in Belfast and he had hoped to able to move in with her once his sentence is completed. But the UVF has now dashed those hopes. The passage of time doesnt mean that its all forgotten, theres no way back for Haddock, a UVF source told us this week. Other members have been allowed to remain, most notably Willie Muscles Young who was deeply implicated in the murder of Raynond McCord jnr in 1997. He still lives in Mount Vernon. UVF commander Mark Haddock who is now currently on the run In 2014, Haddock was jailed for 12 years at Woolwich Crown Court after being convicted of wounding with intent. He stabbed Terry Fairfield outside a pub in Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, in January that year. The victim needed 27 external and three internal stitches after being slashed to the side of the head. Both men are from north Belfast, but had been living in England under new identities. Haddock was ordered to serve at least eight years behind bars and another four on licence. It remains unclear how much longer he is expected to spend in prison. In 2012, Haddock was among a dozen men acquitted at a major supergrass trial in Belfast of all charges linked to the paramilitary feud killing of rival UDA boss Tommy English. English was shot dead in front of his wife and children at his home on the Ballyduff estate in Newtownabbey on Halloween night 2000 as part of a loyalist feud. No further details were disclosed in court this week about the circumstances surrounding Haddocks legal challenge. But Mr Justice Scoffield agreed to end proceedings on the terms suggested by his legal representatives. This is a repatriation case, the judge said. Im not going to inquire too much into the details of what has happened, but Im happy to hear that the parties have managed to resolve it... and dismiss the application. It is known that Haddock is desperate to return to his homeland. But a loyalist source said: He has too many enemies, too many people with scores to settle and who wont hesitate to take action. His future, whatever it is, lies outside Northern Ireland. Loved ones of tragic US schoolgirl and her father left with what ifs, as former pal of Newry monster destroyed by revelations Alexander McCartney, from Newry in Northern Ireland, was jailed for a minimum of 20 years at Belfast Crown Court last month (PSNI/PA) Cimarron Thomas took her own life while being blackmailed by McCartney (PSNI/PA) Cimarron's father Ben took his own life 18 months after Cimarron took hers. He died before the family knew she was a victim of Alexander McCartney Distraught relatives of a schoolgirl killed by monster child abuser Alexander McCartney say her dad might not have taken his own life if hed known why she took hers. Cimarron Thomas (12), from West Virginia, USA, took her own life in 2018 after depraved McCartney, from Newry, Co Down, tortured and abused her online. Her grief-stricken father Ben Thomas (39) ended his own life less than two years later having never come to terms with the death of his beloved daughter and never knowing what drove her to suicide. McCartney, one of the worlds most prolific online sex offenders, was jailed for at least 20 years in October after admitting 185 charges, including the manslaughter of Cimarron Thomas. In a new BBC documentary series about McCartneys crimes, Cimarrons grandparents speak candidly about their grief. Dale and Peggy Thomas, who were Bens mum and dad, wonder if their son might have survived had he known what really happened to his daughter. A tearful Peggy says: I cant say how Ben wouldve handled it but I think it would have given him a reason to know why. In his mind I think that would have helped him to accept it maybe a little better, but well never know that. Cimarron was happy and there was no indication to us in any way and it was like, did we miss something? Was there something underlying there that we didnt know about? (Finding out) gave us an answer to what we had been wanting to know, why she had took her life. The couple, speaking from their West Virginia home, describe how Ben Thomas succumbed to alcoholism and depression following Cimarrons death. Peggy continues: Ben and Cimarron had a very close relationship, they did a lot together and Ben trained her in basic things, he took her and her sister out to the garage to work on vehicles. He taught his girls young how to use weapons, took them to the range, taught them about how you take care of a weapon, where you keep it, and they both could shoot. Ben just missed her, he just kind of withdrew and deteriorated slowly because he couldnt deal with all of it. Cimarron Thomas took her own life while being blackmailed by McCartney (PSNI/PA) Dale adds: He got down to just about the skin and bones, his bulk was gone, his interest was gone, the attitude was different. Then he went out and took his own life. To me (Cimarron) was the greatest thing walking but, you know, Ill live with what I had. We were fortunate to have those years. We celebrate her life. The documentary, entitled Teen Predator/Online Killer, features harrowing bodyworn video footage of Ben Thomas arriving home to find police officers who explain to him Cimarron has killed herself. The three-part series also features extensive interviews and behind-the-scenes footage from the PSNI and PPS investigations as well as interviews with a handful of McCartneys estimated 3,500 child victims worldwide. Programme makers also spoke to teenage friends of McCartney, including his best mate Lee, who reveals his disgust and hurt at his paedophile pal. Lee tells the show: I was super close with Alexander, he was near and dear to me, and then all of a sudden a guy that was my friend I found out was a monster. It changed me, I think, every now and then Ill think about it and just be in disbelief. How is this real life? How did this actually happen? Its just hard to think about it all and lay it out in words, Jesus Christ, I trusted him. I let him into my house, and I was in his. Cimarron Thomas There are so many people he hurt, his actual victims, but he didnt just directly hurt people. He indirectly hurt all of us who trusted him. Breaking down, Lee asks documentary makers to take a break in the first episode. Later in the series he adds: I dont know if Ill ever know why he did the things he did or is the way he is, I dont think why matters. I hate everything about this situation, its a nightmare to think about and Im just glad no one else is going to get hurt, I dont think Ill ever not be angry. Alexander McCartney, from Newry in Northern Ireland, was jailed for a minimum of 20 years at Belfast Crown Court last month (PSNI/PA) Ive nothing Id want to say to him, it wont change what he did, nobody should have got hurt. You think you know somebody, you dont. I dont know if anybody knew actually what was going on, I would hope that nobody knew and it was just him. Every time I think about it, it makes me feel sick. All episodes of Teen Predator/Online Killer are available on BBC iPlayer Gerry The Monk Hutch says housing and immigration will be key issues that he will be campaigning on in his run for the Dail Gerry Hutch on the Crime World podcast with Nicola Tallant and Niall Donald Gerry Hutch has said he made the final decision to stand for election after being arrested in Lanzarote and admits he wants to follow in the late Tony Gregory TDs footsteps. Hutch better known to the public as The Monk formally registered as a candidate in the Dublin Central constituency on Thursday. His intention to run in this months General Election has sparked huge controversy and has already been condemned by Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald, Taoiseach Simon Harris and Micheal Martin. Fianna Fail leader Mr Martin described his candidacy as a retrograde step and called on Hutch to be fully transparent about his criminal activities. However, in an exclusive interview on the Sunday Worlds Crime World podcast, Hutch insists he is entitled to stand for election and will work with any political party if successful. Hutch also said that if successful, he will try and follow in the footsteps of his political hero, late Independent TD Tony Gregory. Gerry Hutch speaking with Sunday Worlds Nicola Tallant First elected in 1982, Tony Gregory broke the mould of Irish politics and struck a deal with Charlie Haughey to secure housing, education and jobs for Dublins north inner city. Gregory was also a fearless anti-drugs campaigner and was jailed over the stance he took on behalf of Dublins street traders. Hutch said: Tony Gregory would have been the top man around the area for a long time the people around there are looking for another Tony Gregory. Id never be able to walk in that mans shoes in a thousand years. He was a TD but he was [also] a representative. We have TDs at the moment, but we have no representatives. Thats what Im hearing on the street off the people and theyve asked me, would I go. Hutch claims he first considered running for election when he was approached by local community members at an event held for Kellie Harrington. However, he claims he only made the final decision to put his name forward when he was arrested in Lanzarote as part of a money-laundering probe. Gerry Hutch registering to run for the Dail The veteran criminal was lifted last month by Spanish police as part of an international probe. I was seriously considering [running] and it got into the media. And then, Im in Lanzarote and I got raided. I believe its because Im considering [running]. Its no coincidence. There was an investigation going on but I believe [someone] pressed fast forward and I got nicked. Hutch claims there are three reasons why he decided to put his name on the ballot paper. Someone asked me there the other day why are you doing this? I said, I have three reasons. [Number] One, I said, the people in the area have asked me, theyre pushing me to do it. Ive been doing it unofficially for years. [Two]...the guards who dont like me not all the guards but some of them. Theyve nicked me because Im doing this and tried to put me in custody. The Irish police dont like me...the Spanish have no interest in me at all. Its the Irish police. Pushing, pushing, pushing so that was the two reasons. And the third reason is because Article 16 of the Constitution says any man or woman is entitled to go for it. And thats why Im going for it. When it became apparent that Hutch was going to stand in the general election, his candidacy was roundly condemned by Irelands main political parties. Micheal Martin demanded that The Monk put all his cards on the table when it comes to his criminal history. He said: People are entitled to run, but I think it would be a very retrograde step. Simon Harris, meanwhile, said Hutch should be treated like a criminal instead of a famous star. I think its important that we dont treat this individual like some sort of minor celebrity. Gerry Hutch is arrested This is the person whos brought misery and criminality to this capital city. Hes not a celebrity, hes a criminal, he said. However, speaking on Crime World, Hutch said the Irish political establishment have not been doing their jobs properly. If I get into Leinster House, I wont be taking bullsh*t. Ill rock the house. They wont be all nods and winks get this party in and that party in. Theyve been in for years, they havent done their job. I will try to change things. Ill have to get in the door. Ill have to walk the ground. Its like getting a brand new job. You cant go in and run off with everything. Its going to take time. He also says one of his primary political aims is to target issues surrounding homelessness in the Dublin 1 area. The B&Bs in Gardiner Street are full of homeless people. Theres over 4,000 kids homeless in Ireland I didnt realise it was that. This is not India. Were not living in Calcutta. This is Dublin city, one of the biggest cities in Europe, financially. We have the Financial Centre. Theyre accusing me of money laundering, The Financial Centre is laundering billions of pounds every year from all over the world from Russia to Europe. [Its] all going through the big laundry centre down there in the financial centre, not too far from your own office. Gerry Hutch on the Crime World podcast with Nicola Tallant and Niall Donald He also claimed he will have no problem working with any of the political parties if he is elected. If I get elected, Ill be doing the best interest for my constituency and the country. I [will] work with Mary Lou, Ill have to work with Micheal Martin, Ill have to work with anyone. Hutch is vying for one of four seats in Dublin Central one of the most competitive constituencies in the country. Last time out, Fine Gael Minister Paschal Donohoe, Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald, Green TD Neasa Hourigan and Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon were elected and they are all standing again. Ex-MEP Clare Daly and anti-immigration candidate Cllr Malachy Steenson are also standing in the constituency and are expected to be competitive. Like other parts of the country, immigration is expected to be a major issue on the doorstep. Hutch said he believes that immigrants should be housed across all areas of Dublin and not just the north inner-city. This country needs immigration, it always has. I remember as a kid, immigrants coming into Summerhill, in the fish and chip shops. There was a guy there in Ballybough Nico, his chipper. Ive been in Nicos chipper for 40 years. Nicos gives free chips to people who are hungry. Hes an immigrant. Hes more Irish now than he is Italian. [If you go] into McDonalds they are all immigrants behind the counter [or] go into Lidl, or any of the shops theyre all immigrants behind the counter. Id welcome integration, and immigration coming into Ireland but bring your toolbox with you and bring your skills. Dont come into Ireland and expect to sponge off the dole. If youre coming into Ireland [looking for asylum] from France or from Germany and youre after coming from Africa into them countries well, go back to them [sic] countries and live there. He added: People have to be vetted coming in and proper [sic]. You know, we do need [immigration], but not [the] lot that were getting. And theyre all put into the Dublin 1, the Dublin 3, the Dublin 7 constituency they throw them all in there. [They] dont put any of them into the D4 area. Hutch also claims that housing would be a key focus of his work if elected. Everyones entitled to a house...It should be enshrined in the Constitution that everyones entitled to a house. Theres people living on their mothers floors in their late thirties. You need 120,000-a-year wages before the bank will even look at you for a mortgage. He added: That has to change. The Government should probably say, right, well sponsor you 60k of that and you owe us that. The abduction scene in the first episode was poorly portrayed, Mr McKendry told the Sunday World. scenes from the Disney documentary, say nothing, which deals with IRA abuduction and murder of Jean McConville single mother of 10 Scenes from the Disney documentary Say Nothing Scenes from the Disney documentary Say Nothing scenes from the Disney documentary, say nothing, which deals with IRA abuduction and murder of Jean McConville single mother of 10 Jean McConville's daughter Helen McKendry, pictured with a photograph of her mother at her home outside Belfast. Scenes from the Disney documentary Say Nothing The daughter of IRA victim Jean McConville binge-watched the entire series about her murder in one night this week, it has emerged. Helen McKendrys husband Seamus said Helen who has recently suffered a stroke was determined to watch it in one sitting and she handled it well. Helen is the eldest of Jean McConvilles 10 children. Many were all put into care after their mother was abducted from their Divis Flats home in 1972, murdered and secretly buried. But Seamus criticised some aspects of new drama series Say Nothing, saying promises to organise a private screening for the family didnt materialise. The nine-part series was launched on the Disney channel on Thursday and tells the horrific story of how mother-of-ten Mrs McConville was dragged from her home in front of her children by an IRA gang. Jean McConville's daughter Helen McKendry, pictured with a photograph of her mother at her home outside Belfast. She was later shot dead and buried on a beach in Co. Louth. It was 2003 before Mrs McConvilles body was found after her familys long campaign for the IRA to own up to what they had done. She was one of a large number of people disappeared by republican paramilitaries during the Troubles. The new drama, which is based on a book of the same name by US journalist Patrick Radden Keefe, has been earning rave reviews. Time magazine described it as the must-watch political thriller of 2024. Helen McKendry, Mrs McConvilles eldest daughter, watched the entire series with her husband Seamus on Thursday night. Mr McKendry said his wife, who is recovering from a stroke, was on tenterhooks and wanted to watch it in one sitting. He described the series as brilliantly made, but questioned some of the most important scenes. Scenes from the Disney documentary Say Nothing The abduction scene in the first episode was poorly portrayed, Mr McKendry told the Sunday World. I think it should have shown the full horror of what happened. It didnt and it left you to guess what had happened. He added: I was worried Helen would have a really bad reaction to the programme but she handled it well. Mr McKendry, who campaigned for many years in support of his wifes efforts to find her mothers body, and who wrote a book about the campaign in 2000, criticised the makers of Say Nothing for not consulting with them. There was no communication with the programme-makers at all, he said. They never once lifted the phone to ask us what is your opinion on this or that. There was a total lack of communication with Helen and myself. Scenes from the Disney documentary Say Nothing We have been working on the Disappeared for almost 40 years so you would have thought we were the most likely candidates to speak to about a programme like this. Thats hurtful. As a result, Mr McKendrys solicitor organised a video conference between the McKendrys and a representative of those making the series. Mr McKendry said they were told a private screening would be organised for them before the launch of the series on the Disney channel. He said this never happened. Despite his criticisms, Mr McKendry said he was pleased the series was made and hopes it will bring the story of the Disappeared to a wider audience. He believes the IRA lied about how many people they killed and secretly buried. There are a lot more bodies out there, said Mr McKendry. Who are the Provos to say there are only four more bodies out there? They denied there were any Disappeared before we embarrassed them into admitting it. He described the performance of the Say Nothing cast as absolutely brilliant. Seamus McKendry, the late Jean McConvilles son-in-law There are a lot of positives but if they (the programme makers) had just made that effort to communicate with us, he said. They are a multi-million pound company and you think they could have made a wee bit of an effort. Fourteen IRA members are believed to have been involved in the abduction of Mrs McConville from her home in the Divis Flats. The terror gang claimed the widowed mum was an informer. However, her family say she was kidnapped and murdered because she had gone to the aid of a British soldier who had been shot close to her home. An investigation by the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland found no evidence Mrs McConville had been an informer. The Belfast woman was one of a large number of people, known as the Disappeared, who were killed and secretly buried by the IRA. In 1999, the IRA admitted its involvement in many of the murders and said it had identified nine burial sites, including Mrs McConvilles. In the same year, the Irish and British governments set up a commission to locate and recover the bodies of the 17 people on the Disappeared list. After several unsuccessful searches, Mrs McConvilles body was eventually found in 2003 on Shelling Hill beach in Co Louth. The bodies of 12 of the Disappeared have been found, but four have still to be located. The new Disney series draws significantly from interviews given by former leading IRA members, Brendan The Dark Hughes and Dolours Price for the Boston tapes project. The project, which was co-ordinated by Boston College in the US, involved former republican and loyalist paramilitaries discussing their roles during the Troubles. The recordings were to remain secret until their deaths. However, after Dolours Price claimed in a newspaper interview in 2010 that she had been the person who drove Mrs McConville to the place where she was shot dead, the PSNI launched a successful attempt to get access to the Boston tapes. In her interview as part of the Boston College project, Price, who died in 2013, said she handed Mrs McConville over to a four-man IRA team near Dundalk. The new drama suggests, as first outlined in Radden Keefes book, that Price and her sister Marian, also a member of the IRA, were later ordered to return to Co Louth and that Marian Price fired the shot which killed Mrs McConville. Marian Price has denied any involvement in the Belfast womans death. The former senator was caught up in a furore during his 2011 Presidential election campaign after it emerged he had written a letter in 1997 asking for clemency for his former lover Ezra Nawi. DAVID Norris has revealed he cried himself to sleep over accusations he was a monster for supporting his former lover in a court case linked to paedophilia. The former senator was caught up in a furore during his 2011 Presidential election campaign after it emerged he had written a letter in 1997 asking for clemency for his former lover Ezra Nawi. After first meeting in 1975, Norris entered a long-term relationship with Israeli activist Nawi until 1985, and they continued a platonic friendship after that. But it emerged that Norris had written on parliamentary notepaper in 1997 to an Israeli court asking clemency for Nawi, who had been convicted of the statutory rape of a 15-year-old Palestinian boy and was awaiting sentencing. During his campaign, Norris defended the letter and also spoke about pederasty (sexual relationships between an adult males and boys) in ancient Greece. After initially withdrawing from the race because of the controversy, he then re-entered but finished fifth of seven candidates, despite once topping opinion polls. He got just over 109,000 votes, with Michael D Higgins chosen as President. Part of it was absolutely wonderful, going around the countryside, recalls Norris (80) in RTEs The Meaning Of Life. I visited every single county. But he tells presenter Joe Duffy that the backlash over the Nawi affair was devastating. Ezra Nawi Some of the comment on my candidacy was very wounding, and very hurtful, he confirms. I remember waking up crying and thinking could I be this kind of monster that I was being portrayed as? That was very unpleasant. He acknowledges he was a friend, a lover of Ezra. But he still defends writing the letter. Of course I would stand by him, and write a letter for him, he says. Norris says he ended up crying himself to sleep in 2011 during the controversy. Because of the things that were said about me. I was wondering were they true. Was there an element of truth in them? But that was kind of rather confusing, he reflects. He admits the lowest point of his life was when Ezra broke up with him, telling him he no longer found him attractive, and would prefer to remain as friends. I remember lying on the sofa in this room, paralysed with the horror that I had lost Ezra. I didnt see very much hope, I certainly didnt see a rosy future. But if you give things time, they resolve themselves. I have never lost hope. That was probably my lowest point, but I didnt lose hope even then. That was a bit of a stinker [the break-up]. He [Ezra] met then with the Israeli discus and javelin champion. A very nice man. I met [him], and Im in touch with him. He is sad he was not able to visit Ezra when he was dying. It was terrible, because it was during Covid, he recalls. I couldnt even visit him during his illness. He got a brain tumour, and thats what killed him. He maintains he was madly in love with Ezra, but does not harbour any grudges against him. Theres not much time. I mean life is nasty, brutal and short and theres no time for grudges, he points out. He believes in God and an afterlife but does not expect to meet Ezra again. Hes up somewhere in space, I dont expect to, he predicts. I dont like this idea of people meeting what people call their loved ones. I would like to see my parents, they would like to see their parents, they would like to see their parents. It goes on ad infinitum. Thered be an enormous queue, it would be worse than the queues for the cinema in the old days. Norris also disclosed that he has a clean bill of health, having come through cancer and having also had a liver transplant and suffering from hepatitis. Im very good, he says. I got a clean bill of health from the doctors. Absolutely everything has gone. I had cancer in virtually every part of my body, but now Im completely free. The Joycean scholar and gay rights activist was born in the Congo, but was raised in Ireland from six months of age. His decorated British soldier father died when he was aged five, and his wonderful mother when he was 21. I came in and found her dead in the bed, he remembers. Our family doctor, who was an extremely nice man, but he hadnt been terribly well himself... and he made me sit on her to straighten her legs out. I remember all this kind of gurgling going on inside the corpse, it was very unpleasant. It was awful, because it was just at Christmas. I remember the smell of cold turkey all over the house. It was not a very happy Christmas. He confirms his mother knew he was gay. I think she always knew, but I dont know she understood it really, he maintains. She said thats lovely. I dont think she had the slightest idea what I was talking about. I didnt go into the details. n The Meaning Of Life is on RTE One tonight at 10.30pm. Police continue to report no significant issues as Hikoi mo te Tiriti reached Palmerston North on Saturday, where participants stayed overnight. On Saturday morning, approximately 9000 people marched through Hastings, before the main hikoi headed south down State Highway 2 through Waipawa, Waipukurau, and Dannevirke. On Friday morning, Hikoi mo te Tiriti protesters marched up Rotoruas Fenton St. The protest then moved to Hawkes Bay. Acts Treaty Principles Bill passed its first reading in Parliament on Thursday with support from National, Act and NZ First. Today, it is expected the hikoi will gather at Te Marae o Hine, before marching through Palmerston North. The hikoi will then head south, stopping to gather in Levin, before continuing on to Porirua, where participants are expected to remain until Tuesday morning before marching into Wellington. Police have arrested a man after several boats were interfered with at Taupo marina this morning, prompting an appeal to boaties to contact Police if their vessel has been tampered with. Officers were called about 9am, after a boat owner found his vessel untied. It appears several boats were interfered with and as Police made enquiries, they were alerted to a potential suspect being located by Coastguard Lake Taupo volunteers. Uninterested in speaking with Police, the man dived into the water, crossing to the Nukuhau side of the Waikato River. He entered the river again and swam back to the Taupo side. After emerging from the water, the individual climbed a tree, then informed the officers below that he was stuck. Fire and Emergency NZ and an ambulance were called as a precaution, with firefighters assisting with the mans extraction from the thin branch on which he had perched. He was taken into custody and is being spoken to about the events. Police ask that boaties in the area report any instances where their vessels have been interfered with. If you have any information that could help Police enquiries, please update Police online now or call 105. Please use the reference number P060643157. The Minister for the Prevention of Family and Sexual Violence, Karen Chhour, was on hand to wish riders well at the start of the North Island leg of the White Ribbon Ride in Whakatane this morning. The ride helps mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, or White Ribbon Day, on November 25. Chhour told the more than 30 motorbike riders gathered from across the North Island that she wished them a safe and enjoyable journey, as they travel south to Porirua, near Wellington. White Ribbon is unique because it is a campaign by men, for men, demonstrating the value of men being allies to women in the effort to eliminate violence," Chhour said. In New Zealand, women are disproportionately impacted by family violence and sexual violence, with 1 in 3 women experiencing sexual assault and a third experiencing physical or sexual violence from a partner in their lifetime, and 74 per cent of those killed by a partner, are women." Chhour said men who are using violence or harming others need the supportive challenge from men in their life to change their behaviour and stay violence free. Along with their warm clothes and their ear plugs, riders are advised by the organisers to bring their adventurous spirit and a will to end violence in New Zealand communities," Chhour said. I share that goal, and I wish them well on their campaign. If you see these riders in your town, please support them. Tauranga City Council Mayor Mahe Drysdale has moved to reassure ratepayers that concerns expressed by a number of parties relating to recent property transactions are being thoroughly considered. Questions have been raised about the sale of the Council-owned Marine Precinct and the purchase of 160-176 Devonport Road, Drysdale said on Friday. Council elected members understand the communitys views and have since spoken to and continue to engage with multiple parties and stakeholders. Tauranga City Council sold the precinct at Sulphur Point for $13.987m to Christchurch developer Sam Rofe. The 2.98-hectare precinct, also known as Vessel Works, was valued between $18.63m and $19.24m and is zoned for port industry. Some sites within the precinct are already privately owned. Rofe approached the council in late 2023 with a proposal to buy the precinct with a vision of it becoming a premier superyacht refit destination. The sale conditions meant most of the working boat operators would need to relocate from their precinct berths. As part of the sale, the council also agreed to fund up to $29.2m to develop an alongside wharf and replace the existing Bridge Wharf. The decision made under the Government-appointed commission has been criticised by precinct users and newly elected councillors. At an extraordinary council meeting in October, marine precinct users aired their frustrations over the unconscionable sale and being forced to leave the precinct. Tauranga mayor Mahe Drysdale. Photo: Alisha Evans In a statement released last week, Drysale said they have investigated these transactions internally, gathered legal advice and continue to work with the Office of the Auditor-General. While no evidence has been found of personal wrongdoing, as elected members, we are supportive of independent scrutiny of significant property transactions and I have written to the Office of the Auditor-General to express full support for any review or investigation they might deem necessary, so that we can ensure that all proper processes, legislation and policies have been followed and that ratepayers best interests have been considered, Drysdale said. He said that while the Marine Precinct sale has yet to be formally settled, legal advice indicates that there is a binding agreement in place. While the recently elected Council may have made different decisions on both of these inherited transactions, we are committed to achieving the best possible results for all stakeholders and we will continue to work proactively with all parties involved in these matters, Drysdale said. The local Medical Officer of Health has issued a health warning for Lakes Ohakuri and Maraetai, two of the Waikato River hydro lakes. These have both returned laboratory results showing high concentrations of cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, following regular water sampling by Waikato Regional Council and in collaboration with Ngati Tuwharetoa Iwi. It is important to avoid any recreational activity which results in significant contact with the water in these two lakes, Dr Phil Shoemack, Medical Officer of Health with the National Public Health Service said. Unfortunately, these lakes have had similar algal blooms over recent summers and it is extremely difficult to predict how long the warnings will remain in place. Cyanobacteria can release toxins which may trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth and fingers, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems. Algal mats and scum may also accumulate along the shoreline of the lakes and so its especially important that parents ensure that children avoid contact with these as they may be toxic, said Dr Shoemack. Dogs are particularly at risk and should also be kept away from the shoreline. Elsewhere in New Zealand there have been reported deaths of dogs that have eaten algae on shorelines. Most algae are harmless, but high levels of some species may be toxic, and blooms may result in health warnings being issued. Photo/Waikato Regional Council. Before heading to rivers and lakes, people are encouraged to look out for health warnings from www.lawa.org.nz, and to keep an eye out for signage at recreational water locations. However, even if no official warning is in place, people still need to be cautious before going into the water. Algal blooms are unpredictable and can grow unexpectedly and shift around, especially in lakes said Dr Shoemack. So even if theres no alert or signage in place, always check first and if the water doesnt seem right, stay away and stay out. For up-to-date information on health warnings specific to the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts, visit: https://toiteora.govt.nz/public/health-topics/recreational-water Drayson was airlifted to Whakatane Hospital and transferred to Tauranga Hospital. He estimated falling between three and four metres. I swang on a Rata vine and it broke, so I landed very, very heavily on my leg, the now 63-year-old said. Rhys Draysons decades-long health ordeal started when he was hunting with his brother and father in the Te Urewera National Park in 1982. Two drugs have extended his life as part of a trial but they were on the National Partys list of 13 cancer treatments it promised to fund if elected in 2023. But this funding has been delayed and now he is calling on the Government to fulfil that promise. It should have been a harmless bit of fun. Whakatane man Rhys Drayson was hunting in the bush when he decided to swing on a vine. But it ended in disaster with a broken leg, Hepatitis C and ultimately terminal cancer. The [left] leg was going gangrenous ... so it was a matter of having to amputate it to save my life. Six months later, Drayson got an artificial leg, which has allowed him to work full-time, swim, cycle, and play pickleball. But losing his leg wasnt the only life-altering consequence of his accident. At the hospital, Drayson needed a blood transfusion and he was infected with contaminated blood. He found out he had hepatitis C in 1993 after a blood test. Health NZ said blood donors were not screened for hepatitis C before 1992. The virus was only discovered in 1989, and a reliable test was developed in subsequent years. Unfortunately, Drayson was transfused before hepatitis C screening for blood donors became available. In 2015, Drayson was cleared of the virus when he took the drugs Harvoni and Ribavirin. However, he was warned he was at risk of developing Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC or liver cancer) and needed regular ultrasounds. Drayson given six to 12 months to live An ultrasound in March 2022 showed something was wrong. A CT scan confirmed he had liver cancer. The father-of-two was told he needed a liver transplant. While on the transplant waitlist, he was offered a clinical trial to help prevent the cancer from spreading which had limited success. In September 2023, the cancer was found to have spread to his lymph nodes, ruling out a transplant. He found out about a clinical trial to receive cancer drugs Atezolizumab with Bevacizumab. In November 2023, Drayson was assessed to see if he met the trials criteria. There, a doctor told him he had six to 12 months to live. He remembered leaving the hospital and thinking he had to tell his family. There I am telling my 91-year-old dad that Ill be dying before he does. Overall complete response from drugs Drayson was accepted for the trial and started treatment in December. He has been travelling to Auckland every three weeks since. The pharmaceutical company involved pays for his accommodation, travel costs, and the drugs. At this stage, its for the rest of my life. After 18 weeks, an MRI scan showed he had an overall complete response. Whakatane man Rhys Drayson was diagnosed with liver cancer in 2022 after he developed hepatitis C from a blood transfusion in 1982. The doctor told him while it was good news, he still needed to be cautious. Drayson knows the drugs are giving him an extension of life, not a cure. I dont ask a lot of questions because theres a lot of ifs and buts. Absolutely disgusted drugs werent funded Drayson said the drugs would have cost more than $100,000 per year without the trial. He had planned to use his KiwiSaver and remortgage his house if he was denied. Drayson said it was ironic that if the treatment prolonged his life, youd probably get to a stage where you end up having to sell your house then youd end up on the state benefit anyway. Thats why I cant understand why the Governments not funding it to start off with. In 2023, the National Party campaigned on funding 13 cancer treatments available in Australia but not New Zealand, paid for by bringing back the $5 prescription fee. This included Atezolizumab with Bevacizumab for liver cancer. In Budget 2024, the Government confirmed funding would not be available for at least another year. Drayson had applauded National for promising to fund the drugs but was absolutely disgusted when they were not funded this year. Youre playing with peoples lives - youre filling somebody with false hope and promise. Especially for those that theres no way they can afford the drug. Drayson said his health was wonderful and he had a great quality of life. We really need these drugs funded. They are making such a huge difference to me and there are such limited options for people with HCC why should Kiwis miss out on what patients in other countries get as standard treatment? Devastated Gut Cancer Foundation chief executive Liam Willis said the organisation was devastated for the patient community when funding was not included in this years Budget. In many cases, our patients have been waiting for years to access treatments that are readily available and standard of care all around the world. Nowhere was this injustice felt more acutely than in our liver cancer patients. For eligible patients, Atezolizumab with Bevacizumab could be a game-changer, Willis said. To have this hope dangled in an election promise, only to see it taken away again was truly devastating. Willis said the treatment had been publicly funded in Australia since 2020. New Zealanders with advanced liver cancer have no funded options available to extend their lives and give them more time with loved ones. Willis said on average, 408 New Zealanders were diagnosed and 302 died with liver cancer annually. Drugs on Pharmacs options for investment list Pharmacs director of pharmaceuticals Geraldine MacGibbon said Bevacizumab with Atezolizumab for liver cancer was a combination of medicines it would like to fund. The agency had assessed a funding application for this and ranked it on its options for investment list, she said. MacGibbon said Pharmac was working on a competitive procurement process to see if it could widen access to Bevacizumab for some cancers, including liver cancer. This was a process it had to go through when there was more than one supplier of medicine, she said. MacGibbon said Pharmac was assessing bids it had received from suppliers. Pharmac would release public consultation before any decision was made to widen access to Bevacizumab and expected to publish this in December (subject to change), she said. Pharmac was also talking to the supplier of Atezolizumab. We know cancer medicines make a big difference in peoples lives and were working as hard as we can to fund as many medicines as we can following our budget increase from the Government in June. Associate Health Minister responds Associate Health Minister David Seymour said he acknowledged the hardship faced by people in situations such as Drayson. He said Pharmac operated independently of the Government and at an arms length from the minister in its decision-making. As minister, Seymour said he had power over funding and expectations for Pharmac. Thats why we have given Pharmac a record level of funding and set the expectation that they will focus relentlessly on improving access to medicine. Associate Health Minister David Seymour. Photo / Ben Dickens Seymour said Pharmac had told suppliers it would like the medicine to be available by April 2025. If Pharmac can fund Bevacizumab for liver cancer, it would also fund Atezolizumab as the medicines need to be used together. A Health NZ spokeswoman said that since 1992, all blood donors had been tested for hepatitis C. As a result, there had been no cases of transfusion-acquired hepatitis C as our blood supply has been free of the virus since screening was introduced. -Bay of Plenty Times. Results of the survey, run by RotoruaNZ in partnership with the Rotorua Business Chamber, were shared at an event on Thursday, including a speech by former National Government minister, Steven Joyce. The sixth Rotorua Business Pulse Report was released this week and 99 business owners, chief executives and general managers took part. Their frustrations were voiced in a biannual survey that also found Rotorua businesses were feeling positive about the year ahead despite facing challenges. Rotorua Airport and Air New Zealand are working to improve services amid business community gripes of poor schedule times, frequent cancellations, and prohibitive costs. About 52% of respondents used growth or recovery in a one-word description of Rotorua, and 27% said organisational culture was what they were most positive about. RotoruaNZ chief executive Andrew Wilson was encouraged by growing confidence, with positivity around profitability and optimism for growth in the coming year. The survey results highlight that our local businesses are pushing forward despite challenges, with rising organisational morale and strategic focus leading the way. Finding skilled staff and addressing barriers such as housing and air connectivity remained pressing concerns, he said, which RotoruaNZ worked to address with the business community. RotoruaNZ chief executive Andrew Wilson speaks on the March 2024 business survey. Photo / Laura Smith Business travellers flight gripes Rotorua Airport travel issues were the most common theme of final, unprompted comments in the survey, the report found. Issues reported were summarised as poor schedule times, frequent cancellations, and prohibitive costs being the typical reasons for choosing to use other airports. Respondents said this was an urgent issue for businesses, there were limited flight options and sometimes it was better to drive to Auckland or Tauranga for flights. Chief executive Nicole Brewer said Rotorua Airport was aware of the challenges raised in the survey and improvements were a priority. Rotorua Airport is working to address business travellers' concerns. Photo / Andrew Warner We are having the right conversations with the right people, but there are complex issues involved that, unfortunately, lie outside our control. It had been collecting data to build a full picture of traveller challenges and the survey fed into that. She encouraged people to share their experiences directly to enable the airport to champion the region through the right channels. We understand that supporting businesses and the local economy requires our flight schedule to be regular and reliable, and we want to reassure our community that we are coming at this from all angles. Brewer said it worked with stakeholders to drive improvements in how the region was serviced. An Air NZ statement said it was working closely with Rotorua Airport to tackle some of the challenges experienced, especially during bad weather. Air NZ general manager domestic Scott Carr said the national carrier serviced Rotorua with up to 108 weekly flights in and out of Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. In the past 12 months, about 7% had been cancelled, mainly due to weather or engineering. Safety of passengers and crew was always the top priority. Our schedule reliability is important to us and our team is working hard at reducing the number of cancellations as we appreciate how important it is to get customers to their destination. An Air New Zealand domestic flight leaves Rotorua airport. Photo / Andrew Warner Carr said recent softening in demand for domestic flights was evident on some regional routes and Air NZ needed to ensure its operations are financially sustainable in the medium term. In the past few months, and compared with the same time last year, fares had fallen 5% on Rotorua routes. Carr thanked the Rotorua community for its patience. Other findings Measured for the first time in the survey, geopolitical instability was the second-ranked challenge for businesses after finding skilled workers, as tensions increase in the Middle East and with the possibility of tariffs being imposed following Donald Trumps victory in the US election. Nearly half of respondents said they were positive about a strong summer tourism season. While only 1% expected business affordability to improve in a year, most (55.8%) expected business activity to increase, and for staff numbers, profitability, and investments into the business to stay the same or rise. Rotorua Business Chamber board president Paul Ingram said the survey highlighted businesses' resilience. Since the March survey, a high proportion of participants have progressed business strategies, built team culture, and developed policies for carbon emissions and inclusion of Maori culture. Other findings included a perception Rotorua had a poor reputation and a lack of quality housing were key barriers in attracting talent. About half the respondents rated Rotorua schools as good, but a fifth with high-school or intermediate-aged children sent them to integrated or private schools outside the district. Steven Joyce on tech Speaking at the launch, former finance minister and Waikato Management School Business Advisory Board chairman Steven Joyce noted the difficult market of late. He said balance sheets had been really smashed over the past few years and the challenge now was to pursue growth to get those balance sheets under control. He said New Zealand needed to look to the tech sector and encourage entrepreneurs. Former finance minister and Waikato Management School Business Advisory Board chairman Steven Joyce speaks in Rotorua. Photo / Laura Smith He referenced Kiwi success stories such as Rocket Lab founder and chief executive Sir Peter Beck - now a billionaire who had now spawned a second generation of entrepreneurs, and then a third. Thats what I call the Silicon Valley effect I think we need to do more to develop that, particularly in regional New Zealand. Additional reporting Samantha Motion 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. Syracuse, N.Y. A man is in critical condition after an apparent suicide attempt after he jumped from the Thompson Road bridge over Interstate 690 Saturday afternoon, according to Syracuse police. Syracuse police and firefighters responded to the service road to I-690 West at 2:18 p.m. after reports that a man had jumped from the bridge, police said in a news release Saturday night. When they arrived, they found a man in his 20s unconscious on the service road, police said. The man was taken to Upstate University Hospital in critical condition, they said. Police shut down Exit 16 for about two hours, according to an alert from the state Department of Transportation. *** Are you or a friend is thinking about suicide? Heres how to get help Dial 911 if you or your friend is in immediate danger. National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-8255. This toll-free, confidential suicide prevention hotline is available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. By dialing 800-273-TALK, the call is routed to the nearest crisis center in a national network of more than 150 crisis centers, including Contact Community Services in Syracuse. 988 Suicide & crisis lifeline: If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, this confidential, free service can be accessed by calling or texting 988. You can chat at 988lifeline.org Contact Community Services Hotline: 315-251-0600. Provides 24-hour telephone counseling. Veterans and Military Crisis Line: 800-273-8255, press 1. Crisis Text Line: A texting service for emotional crisis support. To speak with a trained listener, text HELLO to 741741. It is free, available 24/7 and confidential. Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation Program (CPEP): 205 Prospect Ave., Syracuse; 315-448-6555. This licensed psychiatric emergency room at St. Josephs Hospital Health Center provides evaluation and treatment for individuals of all ages who are experiencing an acute mental health crisis. St. Josephs Mobile Crisis Outreach: 315-726-8650 or 315-569-4129. Provides off-site initial evaluation and assessment of individuals in an emotional crisis. Upstate High Risk Psychiatry Program: 315-464-3117. Outpatient treatment for people at high risk of suicide. Anyone interested in the program can call. Referrals are not needed. *** Staff writer Timia Cobb covers breaking news. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at tcobb@syracuse.com. Saturday Night Live is mourning the death of Peanut the squirrel, an internet-famous rodent that was recently euthanized by wildlife officials in Upstate New York. SNL cast member Sarah Sherman dressed up as a giant squirrel to play Hazel, a.k.a. Hazel Nut, the widow of Peanut, also known as PNut or PNUT, for a Weekend Update segment with Colin Jost. Peanut was confiscated from Mark Longos home and animal sanctuary in the Southern Tier hamlet of Pine City, and then put down for rabies testing after allegedly biting a state Department of Conservation agent. The cops raided our house, and then Peanut bit one like a damn hero, Sherman said as Hazel. Have you ever bit a cop, Colin? Why would I bite the hand that feeds me pink cocaine? Jost joked. Anyway, then they abducted Peanut and chopped his head off in a rabies test. Thats how they really test for rabies. Colin, can you imagine if they chopped off your penis every time you tested positive for chlamydia? The bit also included Sherman doing elaborate impressions of a squirrel, jokes about nuts and stuffing his cheeks, and a puppeteer pushing Shermans squirrel tail in front of Josts face and crotch. Oh come on, Shermans character. Im in mourning, Colin. I need touch. Im a widow at four, she added. Im so old that the only person who wants to hit it is Jake Paul. I cant take it anymore. Im going nuts. Nuts?!? Where?!? Peanut, who was taken in by Longo seven years ago after his mother was hit by a car in New York City, had became a social media sensation thanks to Instagram photos of the squirrel wearing cowboy hats. But Peanut and Fred, a rescued raccoon, where put down when Peanut allegedly bit a DEC worker during an investigation over complaints that wildlife was allegedly being kept illegally and potentially unsafely. The rabies tests for Peanut and Fred both came back negative, Chemung County Executive Chris Moss announced Tuesday. Moss said the county worked with the state and followed protocols. Its no real big shocker to me, considering I lived with Peanut for seven-and-a-half years and Fred for five months. Im not foaming at the mouth, said Longo, also known as Squirrel Dadddy. I knew the test results were going to be negative. This undated image provided by Mark Longo shows his pet squirrel Peanut that was seized by officers from the state Department of Environmental Conservation, at Longo's home in rural Pine City, N.Y., Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024. (Courtesy Mark Longo via AP)AP In New York State, it is illegal to house animals considered wildlife without a special permit. Longo has said he was in the process of applying to get Peanut certified as an education animal. He and his wife Daniela said Peanut inspired them to open an animal rescue in Chemung County called PNuts Freedom Farm Animal Sanctuary. The Peanut controversy became a political issue in the days leading up to the 2024 election, with Republicans using it to accuse Democrats of government overreach. NYS Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz of the 15th Assembly District in Long Island proposed Peanuts Law: Humane Animal Protection Act, an amendment to the New York State Environmental Conservation Law over animal seizure rules, including a mandatory 72-hour waiting period before euthanizing any sanctuary animals and creating a dedicated DEC review board of experts for emergency appeals of cases. Taos Woman: Online Now! In this years Taos Woman magazine, we get up close with our eight Taosena awards recipients and women who are committed to the community and passionate in spirit. darkgamer BHPian Join Date: Mar 2020 Location: Bengaluru Posts: 181 Thanked: 1,075 Times re: Mahindra XUV.e9 electric SUV spied. EDIT: XEV 9e Launched @ Rs. 21.90 lakh; BE 6e @ Rs. 18.90 lakh Quote: TorqueAddict007 Originally Posted by If the BE 6e indeed works out to less than 25 lakhs on road for the top variant, it'll be an absolute game changer in the EV market. An 80 kWh battery, 250 bhp, that juicy instant electric torque, AWD to make use of that torque properly, great interior space, fast DC charging speeds, all of these are enough to not just win the EV market but the CSUV market. Who wouldn't want to have a 250 bhp torquey beast with hopefully 400 km 100-10 real world range and support for super fast DC EV charging. Base model (240 hp valeo motor, 60kwh): should be around 20 lakhs Long range model (240 hp valeo motor, 80kwh): this should also have all the fancy stuff like ADAS, should be around 23-25 lakhs. AWD model (350 hp front + rear valeo motor, 80kwh): top spec, should be around 27-28 lakhs. The motor specs are all out and Mahindra hasnt kept them hidden. Theyre even trying to get the VW motors which have a bit more power (280 and 400 hp instead of 240 and 350) but that might be a mid cycle facelift and itll launch with valeo motors first. Quote: This is a car that wouldn't just entice the EV buyers, it could potentially convert a lot of Creta/Vitara buyers, which is a huge market for EVs to break into. If my price predictions are true, Ill buy the 6E on day 1 (or whenever I get it based on backlog, but will book on day 1). I think there will be a lot of variant play here too. Based on the leaks this is what we know so far. Prices are my guesstimates:Base model (240 hp valeo motor, 60kwh): should be around 20 lakhsLong range model (240 hp valeo motor, 80kwh): this should also have all the fancy stuff like ADAS, should be around 23-25 lakhs.AWD model (350 hp front + rear valeo motor, 80kwh): top spec, should be around 27-28 lakhs.The motor specs are all out and Mahindra hasnt kept them hidden. Theyre even trying to get the VW motors which have a bit more power (280 and 400 hp instead of 240 and 350) but that might be a mid cycle facelift and itll launch with valeo motors first.Oh yes, and the failure of Tatas ICE converts and the success of pure EVs (MG Windsor and even CBUs from BYD) shows that theres a lot of scope for EVs in India. We just dont want half baked ICEs with batteries plonked inside.If my price predictions are true, Ill buy the 6E on day 1 (or whenever I get it based on backlog, but will book on day 1). Serving tech enthusiasts for over 25 years.TechSpot means tech analysis and advice you can trust Why it matters: TSMC's investments in EUV and high-NA EUV technologies are poised to shape the future of semiconductor manufacturing. These hefty investments will enable the production of increasingly powerful and efficient chips for a broad range of applications. TSMC was expected to receive its first high numerical aperture (high-NA) extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography system, the "EXE:5000," from Dutch manufacturer ASML in September 2024, according to Business Korea. While media reports vary on the exact delivery date some suggesting installation at TSMC's Hsinchu R&D center by the end of the year the precise timeline is less critical than the broader implications. The key takeaway is TSMC's evolving stance on this cutting-edge technology. Initially cautious, the company has now fully embraced high-NA EUV lithography to maintain its leadership in the fiercely competitive chip industry, where demand for AI-oriented ultra-fine processes is rapidly increasing. Adopting high-NA EUV scanners is pivotal for TSMC's development of sub-2nm processes. These advanced systems increase the numerical aperture from 0.33 to 0.55, enabling higher resolution and more precise patterning on semiconductor wafers. TSMC plans to incorporate high-NA EUV scanners into its 1.4nm (A14) process, which is scheduled to enter mass production in 2027. However, these advanced lithography systems will not be immediately operational. Rigorous testing, fine-tuning, and process optimization will be required before they can be integrated into high-volume manufacturing. By the time these systems become fully operational, TSMC is expected to have advanced to its A10 node, representing several technological generations beyond its current capabilities. This timeline aligns with TSMC's broader roadmap for advancing chip manufacturing processes. During TSMC's Q3 2024 earnings call, CFO Wendell Huang outlined the company's node development schedule. He stated, "We're ramping the N2 in 2026. There will also be some preparation costs for ramping N2. And as we migrate every leading node, more and more advanced, this preparation cost will become bigger and bigger." Each high-NA EUV system comes with a hefty price tag of approximately $384 million. Nevertheless, TSMC's technological leadership in high-NA EUV is expected to attract more high-profile customers seeking cutting-edge chip manufacturing capabilities. This could further widen the gap between TSMC and its competitors, particularly Samsung Electronics, which needs to catch up in securing high-NA EUV equipment. TSMC has already built a strong foundation with current EUV technology. The company's journey with EUV began in earnest in 2019 with the launch of its N7+ process, marking the industry's first commercial EUV lithography process. Since then, TSMC has rapidly expanded its EUV capabilities, with EUV systems growing tenfold between 2019 and 2023. The company now accounts for 56% of the global EUV installation base. The foundry giant has continued to leverage EUV in subsequent processes, including N5 and N3. Industry estimates indicate that TSMC operated about 10 EUV systems when it launched the N7+ process in 2019. TSMC acquired 84 EUV systems in 2022 and more than 100 in 2023. TSMC's approach to EUV adoption has been systematic and customer-focused. The company carefully evaluates new technological innovations based on their maturity, cost, and potential customer benefits before integrating them into mass production. "TSMC plans to bring in high-NA EUV scanners first for R&D to develop the associated infrastructure and patterning solutions needed for customers to fuel innovation," the company told The Register. Climate finance can be hard sell, says aide to banks and PMs Baku, Nov 17 (AFP) Nov 17, 2024 Trillions of dollars are needed to make poorer nations more resilient to climate change, and studies have estimated that every $1 invested today will save at least $4 in future. So why is it so hard to raise this money, and what are some of the innovative ways of going about it? - Wind over walls - Developing countries, excluding China, will need $1 trillion a year by 2030 in outside help to reduce their carbon footprint and adapt to a warming planet, according to UN-commissioned experts. This money could come from foreign governments, big lending institutions like the World Bank, or the private sector. But some projects attract money more easily than others, said Avinash Persaud, special climate adviser to the president of the Inter-American Development Bank, a lender for Latin American and Caribbean nations. For example, the private sector likes building solar farms and wind turbines because there's a return on investment when people buy the electricity. But investors are much less interested in building defensive sea walls that generate no revenue, said Persaud, who hails from Barbados, and once advised the Caribbean nation's Prime Minister Mia Mottley. "Unfortunately, there's no magic in finance. And so that does require a lot of public money," he told AFP on the sidelines of the UN COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan. - Political jitters - But governments are limited in the amount they can borrow, he said, and reluctant to dip into their budgets for climate adaptation in poorer nations. In the European Union, which is the largest contributor to international climate finance, major donors face political and economic pressures at home. Meanwhile, newly-elected Donald Trump has threatened to pull the US, the world's largest economy, out of global cooperation on climate action. This has posed enormous challenges at COP29, where nations are no closer to striking a long-sought deal to raise more money for developing countries. "You're seeing the political landscape -- governments are not getting elected to raise their aid budgets and send more money abroad," said Persaud. - Close the gap - A defensive sea wall, for example, might not pay off for decades, making it difficult for debt-strapped countries to borrow enough money at reasonable rates to build it in the first place. Persaud said development banks could help bring down the cost of borrowing, while new taxes on polluting industries like global shipping and coal, oil and gas could raise new money. Such "innovative" schemes already exist, he said: in the United States, $0.09 of every barrel of oil goes into a fund to cover the cost of cleaning up a spill. "Well, we're seeing a spill in the atmosphere... and maybe if we spread these things, make them global across fossil fuels, we could raise the money we need." This could help poorer nations recover from disaster -- known in UN parlance as "loss and damage" -- something few investors go near, he said. "If we can raise these levees -- the solidarity levees -- here and there, for those things that can't be funded any other way, then we can close that gap," he said. - 'Science into finance' - Persaud conceded "none of this is easy". "Raising the money is hard. Spending it well is hard. Getting it to the the people who need it most is hard," he said. But $1 trillion was a realistic ask if underpinned by $300 billion in public finance -- three times the existing pledge, he said. Without "translating the science into finance", developing countries could not take the action necessary to help curb rises in global temperatures. "If we don't get one, we don't get the other," he said. G20 tests Brazil's clout in Lula 3.0 era Rio de Janeiro, Nov 17 (AFP) Nov 17, 2024 The G20 summit will be a diplomatic test for veteran President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva who has boosted Brazil's global standing since returning to power but drawn fire for his positions on Ukraine and Gaza. "Brazil is back!" Lula announced triumphantly two years ago after he unseated far-right incumbent Jair Bolsonaro, who had turned his country into a pariah, to secure a third term as Brazilian president. The Rio meeting starting Monday is the first of several high-level gatherings that will showcase Brazil's ambition to take a prominent role on everything from climate change to the war in Ukraine. Among them: annual UN climate talks next year which will take place in the Amazon. Here is a brief look at the diplomatic highs and lows of Lula 3.0 so far: - Leader on climate - Lula's biggest diplomatic success has been his leadership in the fight against climate change by overseeing a slowdown in deforestation of the Brazilian Amazon, analysts say. The annualized rate has fallen to its lowest level in nine years as of end-July 2024, according to the National Institute for Space Research (INPE). Lula's government has also announced accelerated plans to cut carbon emissions and put forward proposals for a global fund to conserve forests. The environment is where "has made the most progress," Roberto Goulart Menezes, deputy director of the Institute of International Relations at Brasilia University, told AFP. Lula's leadership role would likely be strengthened if US President-elect Donald Trump makes good on his vow to again pull the United States out of the Paris Agreement on reducing emissions. - Bridge-builder - Lula has long sought to be a builder of bridges between the West and the Global South, earning him the title in 2009 as "the most popular politician on Earth" from then-US president Barack Obama. His comeback has returned Brazil "to its traditional role, as a trustworthy partner of the international community and a builder of consensus," Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira told AFP. Part of Lula's pursuit of a multipolar world has boosted Brazil's ties with China -- its biggest trading partner. A German government source commented that while Lula clearly "represents the interests of emerging markets," he also tries to find common ground with rich countries. - Prone to 'missteps' - "It is hard to deny that 'Brazil is back' when compared to the previous administration," Michael Shifter, an expert at the Washington-based Inter-American Dialogue think tank, told AFP. But Lula has made "some missteps and has been less surefooted in global affairs than he was during his two previous terms in the 2000s," Shifter noted. Lula drew particular criticism in May 2022 for declaring that Ukraine and Russia shared responsibility for Russia's full-scale invasion of its neighbor launched three months earlier. The following year he attempted "damage control" by condemning the violation of Ukraine's territory, Shifter said. But Lula was again accused of pro-Russian bias when China and Brazil in August this year presented a joint roadmap for peace talks between Russia and Ukraine that did not require Russia to surrender Ukrainian territory. Former Brazilian diplomat Paulo de Almeida said Lula's "anti-Americanism" in part explained his stance on Ukraine as well as his position on Israel's war against Hamas. Lula has accused Israel of "genocide" in the Gaza -- a position shared by South Africa, among other southern continent heavyweights -- and likened it to the Holocaust. Israel and Brazil have withdrawn their respective ambassadors. - Eye off Venezuela - Venezuela is the other weak spot in Lula's diplomacy, experts say. Lula has taken a tough stance on President Nicolas Maduro, refusing to recognize his widely-rejected claim to have won a third term in July elections. And he has blocked Venezuela's bid to join the BRICS grouping of emerging economies. But he has not backed the Venezuelan opposition's claim of election fraud nor made strenuous efforts to mediate. "Venezuela is a lost opportunity for Lula," Shifter said, adding that he "failed to mount a strategy to push for a democratic transition" in the country. Vieira defended Lula's handling of the crisis, saying "neither Brazil nor the president promise to carry out miracles." Biden in historic Amazon trip as Trump return sparks climate fears Manaus, Brazil, Nov 17 (AFP) Nov 17, 2024 US President Joe Biden will make an historic trip to the Amazon rainforest on Sunday to promote his record on fighting climate change ahead of a G20 summit overshadowed by Donald Trump's vow to roll back his green policies. Biden is heading to Manaus in Brazil, a city in the heart of the world's largest jungle, on the last major foreign tour of his presidency before he hands the keys of the White House to Trump in January. He will then continue on to Rio de Janeiro for a G20 summit starting Monday over which Trump's impending return to power looms large. Ahead of Biden's visit to Manaus, the first by a sitting US president, the White House announced that the US had hit its target of increasing bilateral climate financing to $11 billion a year. It said that the figure reached this year was six times what the US was providing at the start of Biden's term in 2021 and made "the United States the largest bilateral provider of climate finance in the world." "The fight against climate change has been a defining cause of President Biden's leadership and presidency," the White House said. Biden has cut a diminished figure on his last swing through South America as leader. In Lima, where he attended a summit of Asia-Pacific allies before the G20, all eyes instead were on Chinese President Xi Jinping who was received with greater fanfare. At a meeting with Biden the Chinese leader said he hoped for a "smooth transition" in relations with the future Trump administration. The Republican president-elect has pledged to reverse Biden's policies and could again pull the United States, the world's second-biggest polluter, out of a landmark 2015 deal on combatting carbon emissions, as he did during his first term. On Saturday, he nominated a fracking magnate and noted climate change skeptic, Chris Wright, as his energy secretary. - Amazon fires - The Amazon, spanning nine countries, is crucial to the fight against climate change due to its ability to absorb planet-warming carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. But it is also one of the areas most vulnerable to climate change and environmental degradation. This year it experienced the worst wildfires in nearly two decades, fuelled by a severe drought blamed in part by climate experts on global warming. A recent study showed that the Amazon rainforest had lost an area about the size of Germany and France combined to deforestation in four decades. Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has pledged to put a stop to illegal Amazon deforestation by 2030. Experts have warned that a second Trump presidency could undo progress on the transition to green energy made under Biden, giving heavy polluters like China and India an excuse to scale back their own efforts. During his campaign, Trump pledged to "drill, baby, drill" and increase fossil fuel extraction. He even brushed off climate change just days before the vote. dk-cb/dw Biden begins historic Amazon trip amid Trump climate fears Manaus, Brazil, Nov 17 (AFP) Nov 17, 2024 US President Joe Biden began an historic trip to the Amazon rainforest on Sunday to promote his record on fighting climate change amid fears Donald Trump will tear up his environmental policies. Biden landed in the Brazilian city of Manaus, in the heart of the world's largest jungle, on the penultimate leg of a valedictory South American tour before handing the keys of the White House to Trump in January. The 81-year-old is the first sitting US president to visit the Amazon. Dressed casually in a blue shirt and pants, Biden chatted on the tarmac with local dignitaries, including Brazilian Nobel-winning climate scientist Carlos Nobre before boarding a helicopter to fly over the rainforest. Biden, who was accompanied by Secretary of State Antony Blinken and his daughter Ashley and granddaughter Natalie, will also visit a museum and meet Indigenous and local leaders working to protect the Amazon. Ahead of his visit, part of the Democrat's attempt to cement his legacy in his last weeks in office, the White House announced that the US had hit its target of increasing bilateral climate financing to $11 billion a year. It said that the figure reached this year was six times what the US was providing at the start of Biden's term in 2021. The money, which helps developing countries adapt to climate change, has made "the United States the largest bilateral provider of climate finance in the world," the White House said. "The fight against climate change has been a defining cause of President Biden's leadership and presidency," it added. Biden arrived in Brazil from Peru, where he attended his last summit with Asia-Pacific leaders. He has cut a diminished figure on his tour. All eyes in Lima were on Chinese President Xi Jinping who was received with greater fanfare. At a meeting with Biden, the Chinese leader was already looking to the new Trump era, saying he was ready to work with the "America First" leader and hoped for a "smooth transition" in relations. Trump has pledged to reverse Biden's climate policies and could again pull the United States, the world's second-biggest polluter, out of the landmark 2015 Paris Agreement on combatting carbon emissions, as he did during his first term. On Saturday, he nominated a fracking magnate and noted climate change skeptic, Chris Wright, as his energy secretary. Trump's return to power looms large over a G20 meeting of the world's biggest economies starting Monday in Rio as well as over stalled UN climate talks in Azerbaijan. - Amazon fires - The Amazon, spanning nine countries, is crucial to the fight against climate change due to its ability to absorb planet-warming carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. But it is also one of the areas most vulnerable to climate change and environmental degradation. This year it experienced the worst wildfires in nearly two decades, fuelled by a severe drought blamed in part by climate experts on global warming. A recent study showed that the Amazon rainforest had lost an area about the size of Germany and France combined to deforestation in four decades. Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has pledged to put a stop to illegal Amazon deforestation by 2030. Experts have warned that a second Trump presidency could undo progress on the transition to green energy made under Biden, giving heavy polluters like China and India an excuse to scale back their own efforts. During his campaign, Trump pledged to "drill, baby, drill" and increase fossil fuel extraction. He even brushed off climate change just days before the vote. dk-cb/rmb/dw/adp Biden touts climate legacy in landmark Amazon visit Manaus, Brazil, Nov 17 (AFP) Nov 17, 2024 US President Joe Biden paid an historic trip to the Amazon rainforest on Sunday to promote his record on fighting climate change, insisting it would survive Donald Trump's return to the White House. Biden flew over the jungle by helicopter and met with Indigenous leaders in the Brazilian city of Manaus on the penultimate leg of a valedictory South American tour which has been overshadowed by Trump's election win. The 81-year-old Democrat is the first sitting US president to visit the Amazon. - Don't have to choose - "Folks, we don't have to choose between an environment and the economy. We can do both. We've proven it back home," Biden said in a short speech in a nature reserve, framed by vivid green forest cover. Without referring to Trump by name, he said he would leave his Republican successor and his country "a strong foundation to build on, if they choose to do so." "It's true -- some may seek to deny or delay the clean energy revolution that's underway in America. But nobody -- nobody -- can reverse it," he declared. On Sunday, the White House announced that the US had hit its target of increasing bilateral climate financing to $11 billion a year. It said that the figure reached this year was six times what the US was providing when Biden took over from Trump in 2021. The money, which helps developing countries adapt to climate change, has made "the United States the largest bilateral provider of climate finance in the world," the White House said. The European Union, however, remains the biggest global contributor to climate financing. - Outshone by Xi - Trump's return to the White House looms large over Biden's last major foreign tour as president, which began with a gathering of Asian-Pacific partners in Lima and ends with a G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro starting Monday. Climate financing for developing nations is one of the topics on the G20 table, with calls for the world's richest countries to rescue stalled UN climate talks taking place at the same time in Azerbaijan. While striking a defiant note about Trump, Biden has cut an at-times forlorn figure on his farewell tour of a region the US views as its backyard. All eyes in Lima were on Chinese President Xi Jinping, who was received with greater fanfare than the lame-duck US leader. At a meeting with Biden, the Chinese leader was already looking to the new Trump era, saying he was ready to work with the "America First" leader and hoped for a "smooth transition" in relations. America's allies fear Trump could again pull the United States, the world's second-biggest polluter, out of the landmark 2015 Paris Agreement on combatting carbon emissions, as he did during his first term. On Saturday, he nominated a fracking magnate and noted climate change skeptic, Chris Wright, as his energy secretary. In another ominous sign, Argentina's right-wing President Javier Milei, a major fan of Trump's, this week pulled his country out of the UN climate talks. - Amazon on fire - The Amazon, spanning nine countries, is crucial to the fight against climate change due to its ability to absorb planet-warming carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. But it is also one of the areas most vulnerable to climate change and environmental degradation. A recent study showed that the Amazon rainforest had lost an area about the size of Germany and France combined to deforestation in four decades. This year it experienced the worst wildfires in nearly two decades, fueled by a severe drought blamed in part by climate experts on global warming. Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has pledged to put a stop to illegal Amazon deforestation by 2030. Biden on Sunday announced an additional $50 million towards a Brazilian fund aimed at protecting the world's biggest jungle. Experts have warned that the second Trump presidency could undo progress on the transition to green energy made under Biden, giving heavy polluters like China and India an excuse to scale back their own efforts. str-cb/rmb/st Pius Kamau, M.D., a retired general surgeon, is president of the Aurora-based Africa America Higher Education Partnerships; co-founder of the Africa Enterprise Group and an activist for minority students STEM education. He is a National Public Radio commentator, a Huffington Post blogger, a past columnist for Denver dailies and is featured on the podcast, Never Again. NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Michael Fitzgerald has praised the bravery of alleged victims of Alan Jones, who has been charged with 24 offences in connection with alleged indecent assaults and sexual touching incidents across two decades. Speaking at a press conference in Parramatta moments ago, Fitzgerald said police allege the offending occurred between 2001 and 2019. The youngest of the alleged victims was 17 years old at the time. They fully are aware, as are the investigators, that the hard work is just beginning, and they have given their statements fully aware that they will go before the court, Fitzgerald said. He also highlighted Strike Force Bonnefin investigators tenacity and hard work in bringing this matter before the courts. Loading Historical matters such as this are incredibly hard to investigate and bring before the courts, and I again congratulate them on their ongoing investigation that will continue, he said. Strike Force Bonnefin was formed following a lengthy investigation by this masthead, which revealed in December that Jones had used his position of power, first as a teacher and later as the countrys top-rating radio broadcaster, to allegedly prey on a number of young men. The reports in the Herald and The Age did result in victims coming forward and the creation of Strike Force Bonnefin but a number of witnesses have been assisting police over the years, Fitzgerald said. Woolworths has strongly denied land-banking to prevent competitors from setting up shop in some suburbs and towns. The $36 billion food giants land acquisitions were placed under the microscope today at the inquiry into supermarket prices by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). Woolworths property boss Ralph Kemmler said its portfolio included shopping centres, including some where the company did not operate a supermarket. Ralph Kemmler, managing director of property at Woolworths, speaks at Mondays public hearing. None of the centres it owned had both a Woolworths and a Coles. An internal document, dated March 2023, noted Woolworths owned sites held for strategic reasons that were not earmarked for development. Barrister Naomi Sharp, SC, the counsel assisting the ACCC, pressed Kemmler on whether holding land for strategic reasons counted as land banking, to which Kemmler said, I dont believe so. Sharp asked: It [the document] says that the properties are held on the balance sheet, and theyre not planned for future development, and that theyre held for strategic reasons Do you want to give us an example of what that means? Kemmler replied: Theyre a combination of company homes, surplus land from developments that weve completed that are to be sold or land held pending other developments, and also would include some land that has long term underlying leases that have been developed for other purposes. Sharp was not convinced, and asked again what sites held for strategic reasons meant. It means that they didnt fit into the previous buckets, Kemmler replied. Well, that sounds like a strange explanation of the word strategic, Sharp responded. with AAP Doctors who overbill patients should be named and shamed on a public register, according to one of Australias top health economists, and a class action against a group of Mornington Peninsula doctors allegedly overcharging might be on the cards. Patients have also been urged to check their Medicare records to ensure they have not been wrongly charged by their doctors. The calls come after this masthead revealed allegations against dozens of anaesthetists and surgeons on Victorias Mornington Peninsula, in a damning confidential whistleblower complaint accusing them of systematic fraud, double-dipping and pocketing off-the-book fees. The complaint alleges that a group of doctors has been charging patients hidden out-of-pocket costs up to $5000 disguised as booking or administrative fees for their own financial gain, while at the same time, the specialists were purporting to participate in no-gap-fee schemes with health insurers. Medical fraud and compliance expert Dr Margaret Faux, who has previously worked as a solicitor, believes there may be scope for a class action lawsuit to help consumers if the allegations are proven. Design chalk and cheese As a town planner who has practiced for 40 years across Australia, Asia and the Middle East, I am amazed to see how Victorian councils are fixated on applying Neighbourhood Character Standards to development applications. As the term itself is so vague, it prompted the state department of planning to publish a practice note to assist those in planning to understand neighbourhood character and how to apply it in a design. Sure, the significance of a place and its surrounds is relevant to a planning application, more so in a heritage overlay, however to be drawn into endless back and forth with a council planning officer over a hip roof preference versus a skillion roof form is irritating, pointless and plain ridiculous. Get any two town planners to walk down a street with a clipboard and ask them what are the main character features of that street, and I can guarantee their assessment would be chalk and cheese. We have a chronic housing shortage and delays in planning applications that take a year to pass muster with council. If we were to adopt the same old design to the housing that is next door, then Melbourne would be an uninteresting place to live. Steve OBrien, Doncaster Exam mess consequences While many will understand and share your correspondents anxiety and frustration at the prior exposure of VCE exam questions, her solution will not address the unfairness visited upon my son and many like him (Letters, Compromised exam leave us all feeling undermined, 16/11). He was on an upward trajectory throughout year 12, increasingly better and better at his subjects as the final exams approached. He has been robbed of the satisfaction of finishing on a high because, in a race for rankings, his failure to access the leaked questions - in three subjects - will mean that he is likely pushed down the rankings by those who have, receive a reduced ATAR score and therefore miss out on his university preferences as a result. An option of a derived score wont address the unfairness as he peaked at the end of the process. As gruesome as it might sound, the fairest outcome for him would be to repeat the exams. (No schoolies for him!) David Honey, Ivanhoe Inept exam body As a secondary teacher for 40 years of VCE English, literature and history, the VCAAs recent, inept efforts shows a serious disconnection between this body and teachers statewide, when fundamental mistakes such as hidden questions occur. Through study, both students and teachers across the state build a wonderful rapport in their subject and assume that students are all facing the same exam. This assumption can no longer be made. This years English exam included simplistic, possibly AI-generated visuals that provided little, if any connection, to other material in the same section of the exam. VCE teachers have every right to feel disappointed, angry and bewildered with VCAA. It would do well to own its mistakes to restore both teacher and student confidence in VCE. Leanne Salisbury, Torquay Local council lie detector Thank you to reporters Rachael Dexter and Tom Cowie (16/11) for their much-needed commitment to the poor relation of our governance hierarchy in local elections. The post-mortem of the results made intriguing reading, albeit compromised by Victorias failure to mandate declaration of party allegiance by candidates. The only ingredient of council elections not mentioned is the longstanding pernicious practice of preference harvesting. Every four years it is decried as a systemic manipulation - a form of deception which remains hidden from voters. It is relegated to the too hard basket. Surely, with our focus on truth these days, there must be some way to call this dummy candidate practice out. Maybe an old-fashioned lie detector might help. Diana Yallop, Surrey Hills What is churchs truth? Re Free pass for sexually abusive clerics, 15/11. It has been ruled that Catholic priests are not employees and their church isnt liable. Thats great news for the Catholic Church. It must be a relief to realise their millions of assets are not at risk and the presumably hundreds of thousands spent on legal fees was worth it. So, what is its plan now with respect to the countless victims of abuse, past and present? Deny it? Drag them through the courts? Refuse to offer assistance? Or offer unequivocal support? When we make mistakes, or in times of need and crisis, we show our true selves. Sharen Job, Kew It would be an error for Australian conservatives to draw too many parallels between the election of Donald Trump and our election next year. Early indications are that this is an error that Peter Dutton and his senior colleagues are determined not to make. However, there are others on the right who have gleefully embraced Trumps victory as a template for Australian non-Labor politics. Few things would do more damage to the Coalitions chances next year than to read the wrong lessons from Trumps success. Peter Dutton is not Donald Trump or anything like him. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen, AP Of course, there will be similarities between the two elections, most obviously public hostility towards incumbents. In a year that has seen more elections in major democracies than before, almost every incumbent administration, irrespective of its political colour, has either been defeated or, as occurred in India and Japan, retained office after suffering greater-than-expected swings against it. As the opposite directions of the anti-incumbent upheavals in Britain and America demonstrate, what happened on November 5 reflects a global trend but not an ideological one. In a US election in which endless exit polls identified the cost of living as the most important issue, the Democrats like incumbents everywhere would always have been vulnerable. That a change of administration took place in such circumstances was predictable. Yet the unremarkable nature of the outcome has been lost in the sheer spectacle of the most remarkable campaign since 1968 perhaps ever. Australia, the United States and Japan have sent a defiant message to China by putting their increasingly close partnership on an alliance-style footing and integrating Japanese troops into annual joint Top End rotations for the first time. In what could be the last visit to Australia by a senior Biden administration official before Donald Trumps inauguration in January, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin visited Darwin for a farewell trilateral meeting with Defence Minister Richard Marles and Japanese Defence Minister Nakatani Gen on Sunday. US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin, Director-General of the Japan Defence Agency Nakatani Gen, and Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles in Darwin on Sunday. Credit: Kym Smith/Department of Defence The choice of Darwin sent a powerful signal about the dramatic improvement in relations between the three nations given the city was bombed by Japanese forces during World War II, with Nakatani hailing Australia as a quasi ally. The defence ministers expressed serious concern about destabilising actions in the East and South China Seas, including dangerous conduct by the Peoples Republic of China in a joint statement that warned Beijing against trying to seize control of the self-governing island of Taiwan. Some of Victorias poorest students could lose access to mental health support after the state government quietly clamped down on funding for psychologists in schools, prompting principals and mental health leaders to sound the alarm. The move to limit the $200 million Schools Mental Health Fund created after Victorias 2019 mental health royal commission to fully qualified mental health workers has especially angered schools in Melbournes outer suburbs and the states regions, where these resources are already scarce. Eltham High School principal Vincent Sicari says provisional psychologists are an invaluable asset for schools. Credit: Simon Schluter The national peak body for psychologists has also criticised the move because all psychologists must undergo on-the-job training before they can become fully qualified, and with funding rules tightened for schools, that could lead to fewer placements in schools. A provisional psychologist is someone who holds a masters degree in professional or clinical psychology and has earned the marks to undertake an internship. This typically involves a minimum of two years weekly supervision with a mentor approved by the medical watchdog. Ed Pinto is co-director of the American Enterprise Institute Housing Center in Washington, D.C. Arthur Gailes is the centers senior manager for housing supply initiatives. And this is the answer to everyone who tried to achieve something with Putin through talks, phone calls, hugs and appeasement, Zelensky said. The comment appeared to be a dig at German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who spoke on Friday with Putin in the first such call with a sitting head of a major Western power in nearly two years. In Mykolaiv, as a result of a drone attack, two people were killed and six others were injured, including two children. Two more people were killed in the Odesa region, where the attack damaged energy infrastructure and disrupted power and water supplies, said Oleh Kiper, the local governor. Both victims were employees of Ukraines state-owned power grid operator, Ukrenergo, the company said hours later. The combined drone and missile attack was the most powerful in three months, said the head of Kyivs City Military Administration, Serhii Popko. In this photo provided by the Ukrainian Emergency Service, a psychologist helps a woman who lost her home in a Russian missile attack in the Odesa region of Ukraine on Sunday. Credit: AP Bidens decision to allow Ukraine to use US-supplied weapons deeper inside Russia follows months of requests by Zelensky to allow Ukraines military to hit Russian military targets far from its border. The change follows Russias deployment of North Korean ground troops to supplement its own forces, a development that has caused alarm in Washington and Kyiv. The first deep strikes are likely to be carried out using ATACMS rockets, which have a range of up to 306 kilometres, sources say. Loading While some US officials have expressed scepticism that allowing long-range strikes would change the wars overall trajectory, the decision could help Ukraine just as Russian forces are making gains, and possibly put Kyiv in a better negotiating position when and if ceasefire talks take place. Some Ukraine supporters have argued that the US constraints on long-range weapons could cost Ukraine the war. The debate has become a source of disagreement among Ukraines NATO allies. Biden had remained opposed, determined to hold the line against any escalation that he felt could draw the US and other NATO members into direct conflict with Russia. It is not clear if President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office on January 20, will reverse Bidens decision. Trump has long criticised the scale of US financial and military aid to Ukraine and has vowed to end the war quickly, without explaining how; Trump has said he would seek a quick deal between Ukraine and Russia. Still, some congressional Republicans have urged Biden to loosen the rules. The capability would most likely be used first in the Kursk region of Russia, where Ukraine is fighting against North Korean troops as well as Moscows forces, sources told Bloomberg on condition of anonymity. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky with US President Joe Biden in the Oval Office in September. Credit: AP Moscow, with Pyongyangs help, has been trying to dislodge Ukrainian forces from Kursk after they captured some areas in a surprise incursion earlier this year. Some leaders will most likely raise the issue of North Korean military involvement, including with China, at the G20 leaders summit in Brazil this week. Pyongyang has also supported Russia with millions of rounds of artillery ammunition and other weapons. The US is expected to adopt more sanctions against North Korea before Biden leaves office, some of the people said. Russia has warned that it would see a move to loosen the limits on Ukraines use of US weapons as a major escalation. Kyiv: Blasts rang out across Ukraines capital Kyiv and other cities, as Russia staged its biggest missile attack since August and targeted power facilities with the winter setting in, officials said. Ukrainians have been bracing for a major attack on its hobbled power system for weeks, fearing crippling damage to the grid that would cause long blackouts and build psychological pressure at a critical moment in the war Russia launched in February 2022. In this photo provided by the Ukrainian Emergency Service, emergency services workers extinguish a fire following a Russian rocket attack in Lviv, Ukraine, on Sunday, November 17. Credit: AP Ukrainian defences shot down 140 air targets, President Volodymyr Zelensky said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app. The enemys target was our energy infrastructure throughout Ukraine. Unfortunately, there is damage to objects from hits and falling debris. In Mykolaiv, as a result of a drone attack, two people were killed and six others were injured, including two children, Zelensky said. 10 newborns killed in Jhansi hospital fire LUCKNOW/JHANSI (UP) : A three-tier probe has been ordered into the fire incident by the UP Govt THE Uttar Pradesh Government on Saturday ordered a three-tier probe into the fire incident at the childrens ward of a medical college in Uttar Pradeshs Jhansi district that killed 10 newborns and also dismissed reports that the facility had expired fire extinguishers. Post-mortem of seven infants was carried out on Saturday while the autopsy of three could not be conducted as their parents have not been identified yet, Additional Superintendent of Police (City) of Jhansi Gyanendra Kumar Singh told PTI. According to Jhansi District Magistrate Avinash Kumar, the fire broke out around 10.45 pm on Friday in the NICU wards of the Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College, one of the largest Government hospitals in the States Bundelkhand region, possibly due to an electrical short circuit. Deputy Chief Minister Brijesh Pathak dismissed media reports that the medical college had expired fire extinguishers. All firefighting equipment in the medical college was completely fine, he said in a statement, adding a fire safety audit was carried out at the medical college in February and a mock drill was conducted in June. The principal of the medical college, Dr Narendra Singh Sengar, also termed the allegations baseless. The blaze at the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), where the infants admitted were mostly prematurely born, has been doused but the air around is heavy with sorrow. Parents, mostly young mothers, and their families who gathered outside the childrens ward clung to one another, drawing strength in their darkest hour. President Droupadi Murmu termed the news of the incident extremely heartbreaking while Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an assistance of Rs 2 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased. The Uttar Pradesh Government has also announced an ex gratia of Rs 5 lakh. The incident sparked a political blame game in the State where bypolls to nine Assembly seats will be held on November 20. Opposition parties blamed the BJP Government in the State and said the deaths raise serious questions about the negligence of the administration. A statement from the Uttar Pradesh Government said that on Chief Minister Yogi Adityanaths directions to expedite the rescue work, senior officials took charge of the situation on Friday night itself. Most of the children were evacuated to safety within 15 to 20 minutes through the rescue operation, it said, adding that most of the infants were shifted to the PICU ward. Expressing his condolences to the families of the deceased children, Adityanath directed the officials to provide all possible help to the victims. Ten newborns died in the accident, while 54 were rescued, he said. Another statement from the State Government said, On the CMs instructions, an assistance of Rs 5 lakh each is being provided to the parents of the newborns who died in the incident and Rs 50,000 to the family of each of the injured from the Chief Ministers Relief Fund. The Chief Minister has directed the Divisional Commissioner of Jhansi and the deputy inspector general of police to submit a report on the incident within 12 hours, it added. At an election rally at Phulpur in Prayagraj, Adityanath said the fire was caused by a short circuit. To ensure that other children were rescued, we were up all night coordinating (with officials) for relief and rescue efforts, he said while explaining why he was delayed in arriving at the rally. My heart goes out to those who lost their children, the CM said. The State Government also said that as soon as information about the incident was received, Adityanath sent Deputy CM Pathak and the principal health secretary to the spot. Sixteen children are undergoing treatment in other wards of the medical college. The children, who were three to four days old, have been kept on a warmer, Pathak told PTI on Saturday. Instructions have been issued to launch a three-tier probe into the incident. The Jhansi Divisional Commissioner and the DIG have been told to probe the matter and the fire department will also look into it. Along with this, instructions have also been given for a magisterial inquiry into the incident, the Deputy Chief Minister said on X. In another post in Hindi on X, Pathak said he has spoken to the family of the children injured in the blaze and assured them of all possible help. Interacting with reporters, he said, We will detect the cause of the incident and whose negligence led to it. The priority is giving quality treatment to the injured. Talking about the rescue operation, the principal of the medical college said, The children who did not suffer any burn injury or suffocation are being taken care of at the district hospital. The rescued children have been admitted to other wards of the medical college, district hospital and private nursing homes. Earlier on Saturday, Senior Superintendent of Police Sudha Singh told reporters that 16 injured children were being treated and efforts were underway to save their lives. There was also information that some parents took their children home after the fire erupted in the ward, she said, adding police are trying to verify the tally of infants who were in the NICU and their current status. The medical college has informed that 52 to 54 children were admitted at the time of the incident. While 10 of them died, 16 are undergoing treatment. Verification for others is ongoing, Singh added. The Congress targeted the Adityanath dispensation over the incident, with Rahul Gandhi saying that such tragic incidents happening one after another in Uttar Pradesh raise many serious questions about the negligence of the Government and administration. Party President Mallikarjun Kharge demanded an investigation into the accident and strict legal action against whoever was found guilty of negligence. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said the CM should leave the poll campaign and focus on improving the States health and medical facilities. He also demanded that Rs 1 crore should be paid to all bereaved families, adding, Gorakhpur should not be repeated. Australian towns ordered to evacuate amid bushfire threat Australian towns ordered to evacuate amid bushfire threat Sydney, Nov 16 (IANS)Residents of several towns in Australia's second-most populous state were ordered to evacuate due to nearby bushfires.Authorities in the southeastern state of Victoria on Saturday afternoon issued emergency "leave now" and "watch and act" warnings for several communities in the state's west and southwest as crews responded to out-of-control fires, reports Xinhua news agency."Don't wait, leaving now is the safest option," the Country Fire Authority said."Conditions may change and get worse very quickly. Emergency services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay. By choosing to stay, you and your family may be at risk of serious injury or death."The Bureau of Meteorology forecasted high, extreme or catastrophic fire danger for much of southern and eastern Australia on Saturday, with high temperatures exacerbated by strong winds.More than 20 fire trucks were deployed to fight a fire threatening the small Victorian town of Dereel, approximately 100 km west of Melbourne.Authorities declared a total fire ban in northwest Victoria on Saturday, and the entire state was advised to be on alert."Because we've had such dry conditions for a number of months in a row, what we are anticipating is where there are strong winds, that can mean that a fire may spread or start in parts of the state where we haven't got the total fire ban," Luke Hegarty from the State Control Center told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.Conditions were expected to ease on Sunday, with heavy rainfall forecast for much of Victoria.--IANSint/sd/ Protesters target residences of 3 Manipur Ministers, 6 MLAs IMPHAL : PROTESTERS targeted the residences of three Manipur Ministers and six MLAs on Saturday as part of their demonstrations across districts over the killing of three persons, prompting the Government to impose curfew in Imphal valley and suspend Internet services in parts of the north-eastern State, officials said. They ransacked the houses of three of six legislators and set their properties on fire, while security forces fired tear gas shells to disperse protesters in different parts of Imphal. The curfew was imposed for an indefinite period in Imphal East and West, Bishnupur, Thoubal and Kakching districts of Imphal valley due to developing law and order situation, they said. The State Administration suspended Internet services temporarily in seven districts on Saturday evening in the wake of protesters storming into the residences of State Ministers and MLAs, the officials said. A mob stormed the residence of Health and Family Welfare Minister Sapam Ranjan Lamphel Sanakeithel in Imphal West district. Lamphel Sanakeithel Development Authoritys representative David told reporters, Sapam assured us that the issues related to the killing of three persons will be discussed at a cabinet meeting and that the minister will tender his resignation if the government fails to honour the sentiment of the public. Protesters also stormed the residence of Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution Minister L Susindro Singh in Khurai area in Imphal East district, police said. Later in the evening, a mob also attempted to storm the residence of Susindro Singh, prompting security forces to fire several rounds of tear gas shells to disperse the agitators. The residence of Y Khemchand, the Minister for Municipal Administration Housing Development, in Singjamei area in Imphal West district was also targeted by the protesters. Agitators in Sagolband area in Imphal West district gathered in front of the residence of BJP MLA RK Imo, who is also the son-in-law of Chief Minister N Biren Singh, and raised slogans demanding an appropriate response from the Government and urging the authorities to arrest the culprits within 24 hours. The mob vandalised the BJP MLAs house and set ablaze the properties of the legislator, a senior police officer said. Protesters also stormed the residence of BJP legislator Sapam Kunjakesore in Tera in Imphal West and ransacked his properties, another officer said. One vehicle parked outside the MLAs residence was also torched. The residence of another BJP legislator Joykishan Singh at Thangmeiband in the district was also vandalised, police said. Agitators gheraoed the houses JD(U) MLA T Arun of Wangkhei constituency and BJP legislator Karam Shyam of Langthabal. No damage to their properties was reported. Protesters, who had come to meet Keishamthong constituencys independent legislator Sapam Nishikanta Singh at his residence in Tiddim Road in Imphal West, targeted the office building of a local newspaper owned by him after they were informed that the legislator was not present in the State. The mob destroyed some temporary structures in front of the office building, another official claimed. Meanwhile, suspected militants engaged in a brief exchange of fire with security forces in Irengbam Maning area in Bishnupur district, police said. No one was hurt in the incident, they said. The bodies of the 10 Kuki-Zo youths were on Saturday airlifted to Churachandpur from Assams Silchar town, where the autopsies were conducted. Agitators also set tyres on fire in the middle of a road in Imphal towns Thangmeiband area, just 200 metres away from the Manipur Legislative Assembly building, demanding justice for three persons whose bodies were found on Friday night near the Assam-Manipur border. At Keisampat Bridge, tear gas shells were fired to disperse protesters who were attempting to march towards several buildings, including Raj Bhavan, and the Chief Ministers Secretariat, the police said. Woman BJP MLA S Kebi Devi wanted to talk with the protesters in Naoriya Pakhanglakpa area in Imphal West district and went to the protest site. But she was taken to a vehicle of the state forces after the agitators became hostile, a senior officer said. Three bodies, suspected to be of six missing persons from Jiribam district, were found near the confluence of the Jiri and Barak rivers along the Manipur-Assam border on Friday night. The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), an apex body representing civil society organisations of Imphal valley, demanded military action on militants within 24 hours. COCOMI spokesperson K Athouba told reporters, We no longer trust the security arrangements of the central and state governments. We will begin an indefinite sit-in at Khwairamband Mothers Market. All central and state offices are being shut down indefinitely. Our demands include a military action against the armed militants within 24 hours. He also called for the immediate repeal of AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act), which was recently re-imposed in areas under six police stations. UP ministers accountant duped of Rs 2.08 crore in cyber fraud PRAYAGRAJ(UP) : An accountant of a company owned by Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Minister Nand Gopal Gupta was allegedly duped of Rs 2.08 crore by cyber frauds, police said on Saturday. On the complaint of Ritesh Srivastava, a case was registered on Thursday in the Cyber Police Station against unidentified individuals under section 319 (2), 318 (4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and sections 66C and 66D of the Information Technology Act, they said. Srivastava works for Icavo Agro Daily Private Limited, owned by the Minister and managed by his son Abhishek Gupta. According to the complaint, Srivastava received a WhatsApp message on November 13 from a number displaying Abhisheks profile photo. The sender claimed it was a new number and sought sensitive financial information related to a proposed business meeting, the complainant said. Believing the message to be genuine, Srivastava shared the companys account details on that number following the instructions of the companys Director, it said. Subsequently, he was instructed to transfer Rs 68 lakh to a clients account for finalising a business deal, followed by additional transfers of Rs 65 lakh and Rs 75 lakh into two separate accounts, he said in his complaint. Later, Srivastava discussed the transactions with Abhishek, who denied sending any such messages. Realising the fraud, the company informed the police. Cyber Police Station in-charge Rajiv Tiwari said that all the three bank accounts in which the money was transferred were frozen with immediate effect. Further investigation in the matter is underway, he said. () In the Pacific, no other group of people was more reviled than the beachcomber. Considered degenerate characters, they have been charged with infecting islanders with whom they lived with a moral disease deemed more destructive than smallpox or influenza. A motley crew of deserters, convicts, castaways, and those simply with wanderlust converged in and among many islands of the Pacificprimarily islands in Micronesia and Polynesia; Melanesian islands were feared due to cannibalistic ritesduring their nineteenth century heyday. Although their reputation as rogues and scalawags may be deserved, there were positive contributions beachcombers made to island communities and to the Euro-American traders who plied their wares. The very first European beachcomber of record lived in Guam for four years among the Chamorros. On September 4, 1526, Padre Garcia Jofre de Loaysa anchored at Guam for a four-day stay to replenish ships stores. Welcoming the Loaysa expedition was Gonzalo de Vigo a cabin boy on one of Ferdinand Magellans ships, the Trinidad who had jumped ship four years earlier. De Vigo was taken aboard Loaysas ship bound for the Philippine Islands, healthy and in good spirits. Western Pacific beachcombers Two centuries later, the classical era of beachcombing in the western Pacific began ominously in 1783, when the British East India packet Antelope was scuttled on Palaus reefs. For three months, the crew rebuilt their ship with the help of their friendly Palauan hosts, who lavishly treated them to food and other resources in exchange for firearms. There were other Europeans and Americans who would wash ashore in Palau, victims of shipwrecks the Mentor, 1832; the Dash two years later; and, the Renown in 1870. Many beachcombers became personal property of either the Reklai or the Ibedul, two competing chiefdoms that represented Melekeok and Koror, respectively. They served as interpreter of the chief, a loosely defined title that did little to define their true roles as military strategists and harbor pilots. Beachcombers made their first appearance in the Eastern Carolines in Chuuk (formerly Truk), known as the Dreaded Hogoleu for the fierce reputation Chuukese warriors displayed; Chuuk was to be avoided at all costs. Two British seamen left Duperreys Coquille in 1824 to live on an island in Chuuk Lagoon, and another British seaman, William Floyd, sought refuge on Murilo three years later. None of the three lasted long in Chuuk; the two from the Coquille made their way to Guam, and Floyd was picked up by Captain Fedor von Lutke eighteen months later. Unlike in Chuuk, Pohnpei (formerly Ponape) and Kosrae (formerly Kusaie) attracted a large number of Europeans during the 1830s; most of them escaped convicts or deserters from Sydney-based ships. James OConnell, the earliest and best-known beachcomber tattooed head to toe lived in Pohnpei by 1830. Five years later, there were said to be thirty Englishmen living in Pohnpei with a similar number in Kosrae. Twilight of the era These early beach communities were not models of interdependence; rather, murder and intrigue, alcohol and womanizing were the orders of the day. And, as increased numbers of American whaling ships made Pohnpei a port of call, desertions increased as sailors sought what they thought to be an idyllic island lifestyle. By the 1840s in Kosrae, life for the beachcomber was riskier; Kosraeans did not tolerate the beach communities and massacred those who tried to make the island their home. It was no wonder that Pohnpei served as the ideal island to harbor beach communities. Food supplies and resources were abundant, and the island was divided into five rival chiefdoms that competed for power. By 1850, almost 150 Europeans and Americans made Pohnpei their home (compared to four in Kosrae), earning their living as carpenters, harbor pilots, blacksmiths, and interpreters. They were also entrusted by the chiefs to serve as middlemen in business transactions between Westerners and Islanders, and were paid a percentage of the profits. A generation later, the beachcomber era of the 1830s and 40s was but a memory. The decline of the whaling industry, depopulation of the islands due to disease, and the increased influence of the American missionaries all contributed to the beachcombers demise. The American Board of Congregational Foreign Missions entered Pohnpei in 1852 and helped break the middleman monopoly established by the beachcomber while preaching Protestantism, and perhaps more importantly, helped stamp out smallpox outbreaks with vaccines. Dastardly killing of 3 women, 3 kids Lowest of low | This is the lowest of the low and making things all that more ugly is the absence of empathy or even a squeak of a noise from either Prime Minister Narendra Modi or Union Home Minister Amit Shah. And this is how Manipur has been burning since the last 18 months, starting from the evening of May 3, 2023. From Phijam Hemanjit to Hijam Linthoingambi to the numerous others whose mortal remains remain untraceable, to now the kidnapping and butchering of three women and three children after five days in captivity. The look of concern and bewilderment in the innocent eyes of 2 years old Laishram Chingkhei-nganba and 8 years old Telem Thajamanbi will continue to haunt the collective psyche of Manipur for decades to come. Only God and the dastardly murderers will know the ordeal and pain that the other four, Yumlembam Rani Devi (60), Telem Thoibi Devi (31), Laishram Heitonbi Devi (25) and her 8 months old son Laishram Langamba were subjected to while being in captivity and this is what makes the murder of the six persons all that more spine chilling. No one knows when Manipur will start walking the path of normalcy but the place has already seen some of the worst and most spine chilling killings and murders and it is amazing to see that Delhi seems to be the least concerned, with the Prime Minister more concerned with building brand Modi with his foreign jaunts while Manipur continues to burn and innocent lives are snuffed out with a pull of the trigger or a blow on the head with a heavy object. For full five days the six women and children were kept in captivity and probably moved from one place to another and it was only late in the night of November 15 that news of the recovery of the dead bodies started surfacing on the social media. Confirmation followed with Assam based media reporting the recovery of the bodies and on Saturday (November 16), Imphal woke up to loud protests from all the people. Roadblocks were put up and sit-in-protests and rallies were staged all over the place. The Government reacted in the way it had mastered ever since Manipur went up in flames on May 3, 2023 and quickly imposed curfew and put a blanket ban on net connectivity. How effective the move of the Government would be remains to be seen, but simmering angst of the people can be easily deciphered from the manner in which people gathered and went from house to house of some MLAs. Attempt to storm the residence of the Chief Minister at Luwanshangbam was thwarted but the crowds could not be pushed back at other places and at least three houses of the peoples representatives were torched while large damages were inflicted on the houses of the other MLAs. This is how Manipur has been surviving from day to day since the evening of May 3, 2023 and this should more than underline the fact that Imphal and Delhi have completely lost the plot. What is it that the people want from their representatives ? To resolve the crisis is obviously the common denominator but how to go about it is the crucial question. Should the MLAs resign to lodge their protest against the indifference of Delhi or should the MLAs initiate a move to effect a change in leadership ? More importantly have the points that the people want been spelt out before the different MLAs ? Or are their houses stormed to only lodge their protest against the failure of the elected leaders to resolve the crisis ? The people need to be clear on what they want from the MLAs and what they expect them to do, else the strong protest movement will fizzle out in no time. It is also time for the people to come under one common umbrella and chart out a common agenda. Putting up roadblocks, setting on fire piled up woods in the middle of the road etc will not exactly come close to the understanding of working together, with a common objective and to put up a united case before the State Government. Manipur has seen enough bloodshed and many have died for no fault of theirs and if after even 18 months of the turmoil going on, no united voice is raised now, one wonders whether such a time will come or not. And for 18 months, Modi has refused to meet anyone from Manipur. Neamatpur police outpost, under Kulti police station of Asansol Durgapur Police Commissionerate (ADPC) conducted a raid in Chinakuri area and nabbed two thieves and seized about 52 mobile handsets from their possession. This is the biggest recovery of stolen mobile sets in West Burdwan district in recent times. Advertisement Chinakuri area is notorious for mobile thieves and known as the hub of phone thieves in the ADPC area. Advertisement Police have raided the shop of Mukesh Shaw in Chinakuri Bazar and seized 32 mobile phones from his shop. He has reportedly confessed to the police during interrogations about his thefts in the last few months. Earlier twenty mobile phones have been seized from one Pintu Nunia from Chinakuri Bazar. He has failed to produce any papers or documents related to the purchase of the cell phones. He was produced before the Asansol Court today and sent to three days police custody. Sandip Karra, ADCP (West) of ADPC said that around 52 stolen cell phones have been seized in the past five days from Chinakuri area and two persons have been arrested. Acting on a tip-off, we have nabbed them and seized the phones and will interrogate them to catch other gang members. This is the biggest haul of stolen mobile phones in the ADPC area in recent months. Also, we are probing who used to purchase these stolen mobile phones and for what purpose the sets have been used, he added. A massive fire at a timber warehouse near Nimtala Ghat in Kolkata caused panic among local residents late on Friday night. Initial reports suggested that the fire broke out around 1.30 am near Maharshi Devendra Road. Upon receiving the news of the incident, 20 fire engines were rushed to the spot. Although the spread of the fire was contained, it still simmered even after six hours. As of Saturday morning, white smoke could still be seen rising from the area, and firefighters continued to douse the flame. While there were no casualties, several nearby houses were damaged, affecting around 17 families. Upon hearing of the incident, fire minister Sujit Bose visited the site late at night. Minister for women and child development and local MLA Shashi Panja was also present at the scene. She assured the victims of support and rehabilitation. The cause of the fire remains unclear. However, some locals reported hearing multiple explosions after the fire started, leading to speculation that cylinders may have burst. Sujit Bose stated early Saturday morning that four fire engines initially responded to the incident, followed by additional reinforcements. With the combined efforts of 20 fire engines, the fire was contained, but completely extinguishing it will take more time. Advertisement Minister Shashi Panja also mentioned that temporary accommodation would be arranged for the affected families, possibly utilising community halls for this purpose. Fire department personnel, Kolkata Police, and disaster management teams remained till late. Although the fire originated in a timber warehouse, it quickly spread to the surrounding area. Preliminary assessments suggest that the presence of flammable materials and strong winds from the Hooghly river contributed to the rapid spread of the fire, posing challenges for the firefighters. Advertisement Councillor of ward 41 of Asansol Municipal Corporation (AMC) , Ranbir Singh Brar has been issued show cause notice by district president of Trinamul Congress in West Burdwan, Narendra Nath Chakraborty allegedly for anti-party activities. In the notice Mr Chakraborty, who is also the MLA of Pandaveswar said that the councillor is not cooperating with the TMC board in various developmental works, and also with mayor of Asansol Municipal Corporation Bidhan Upadhyay. Advertisement You also comment to the media against the activities of Asansol Municipal Corporation as well as party activities on various issues. It is tarnishing the image of the party. You are directed to submit the reasons for your misconduct within 24 hours after receiving this notice, said Narendra Nath Chakraborty. Advertisement The show-cause letter was issued against the councillor on Thursday. Ranbir Singh Brar said that he will reply within the stipulated time and he will say that he has not done anything wrong and is a soldier of the party, led by Miss Mamata Banerjee. I have only raised my voice about some activities of our councillors and the way of functioning of the civic body, he added. Calling for accountability in digital media to combat fake news and safeguard democracy, Union Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Saturday that internet platforms must come up with solutions that account for the impact their systems have on our society. Speaking at an event by the Press Council of India (PCI) here to mark the National Press Day 2024, the minister addressed the need for revisiting the Safe Harbour provision amid the changing media landscape and Indias diverse cultural and social context. Advertisement The spread of fake news undermines trust in the media and poses a threat to democracy, the minister told the gathering. Advertisement Algorithms driving digital platforms prioritise content that maximises engagement, incites strong reactions and, thereby, defines the revenue for the platform. These often amplify sensational or divisive narratives. Vaishnaw highlighted the social consequences of such biases, particularly in a diverse nation like India, and called on platforms to come up with solutions that account for the impact their systems have on our society. During his address, the minister raised a critical question on the rapid growth of digital media and the responsibility for the content published on these platforms. The shift from traditional to digital media has financially impacted conventional media, which invests heavily in journalistic integrity and editorial processes. Minister Vaishnaw highlighted the need for fair compensation for traditional content creators, addressing the asymmetry in bargaining power between digital platforms and conventional media. The efforts made by the conventional media in creating content needs to be fairly and suitably compensated, he said. Vaishnaw also highlighted the significant upheaval the creative world is facing due to advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). Addressing the challenges posed by AI systems, he emphasised the need to safeguard the intellectual property (IP) rights of original creators. AI models today can generate creative content based on vast datasets they are trained on. But what happens to the rights and recognition of the original creators who contributed to that data? Are they being compensated or acknowledged for their work? he asked, urging stakeholders to engage in open debates and collaborative efforts to address these challenges, transcending political differences. Hours after Delhi Minister Kailash Gahlots resignation from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), former BJP MLA Anil Jha joined AAP on Sunday in the presence of partys national convenor and former chief minister Arvind Kejriwal. Jha, a two-time BJP MLA from the Kirari Assembly constituency in North West Delhi, joined the party at an event in the national capital. Advertisement Party insiders claim that Jha could replace the sitting AAP MLA from Kirari, in the Delhi Assembly polls due for next year. Advertisement Welcoming him into the party fold in a press conference, Kejriwal called Jha one of the biggest leaders of the Purvanchal community and his joining will boost the party in the upcoming assembly elections. I welcome Jha to AAP. When people of UP and Bihar do not get better education and services in their state, they migrate to Delhi for education and employment. When the DDA failed to build houses for the poor, illegal colonies were built and a large number of people from Purvanchal lived in them, he said Both Congress and the BJP have done injustice to the people of Purvanchal. When I became the CM, for the first time I started laying roads, sewers, and water pipelines in illegal colonies. We have laid water pipelines in 1650 out of 1750 illegal colonies, the AAP chief added. Kejriwal further accused the Centre of overlooking the Purvanchal community and questioned the BJP about the work done by them for the community. Speaking to media persons after joining AAP, Jha said, I thank those who weaved the fabric of social justice for the people of Purvanchal, Dalits, and backward classes. There is no place for Purvanchal in the party I used to work for. I thank Arvind Kejriwal who worked for the people of unauthorized colonies. If anyone is strengthening the slogan of social justice, it is Arvind Kejriwal. The people of Purvanchal, Magadh, and Awadh are standing with you. Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav fiercely attacked the Yogi Adityanath government on Sunday, claiming that the BJPs internal survey indicates the party is losing all nine seats in the Uttar Pradesh assembly by-elections on November 20. Akhilesh Yadav alleged that the BJP conspired to postpone the elections in the Milkipur seat in Ayodhya after the internal survey of the party showed that it is losing ground. Advertisement Addressing an election meeting in the Katehari assembly constituency on Sunday, Akhilesh Yadav said the elections were initially scheduled for November 13, coinciding with the festival period when many people return home. He claimed that voters, who had come for the holidays, were determined to vote against the BJP, and the party realised its defeat. As a result, he alleged, the BJP postponed the elections to November 20. Advertisement The SP President praised the students of Prayagraj for their unrelenting protests for jobs and employment opportunities, which forced the Yogi government to step back and accept their demands. He said that those who gave the slogan One Nation, One Election are now unable to even conduct a single examination, despite promising to hold record examinations. Akhilesh Yadav also expressed grief over the death of children in Jhansi, calling such incidents tragic in todays time. He questioned why the government should only be alert when children are involved. Taking a jibe at CM Yogi, Akhilesh said that the Chief Minister is already scared. He added that with the elections nearing, CM Yogi appears to be confused and frustrated. On the slogan Batoge to Katoge, Akhilesh Yadav said that this was the language of the British, who had a habit of dividing and ruling. He claimed that now CM Yogi is following in their footsteps. The SP President added that he is waiting for positive thoughts from the CM. Our saints remain silent, but here everything is upside down. Our Chief Minister says that a person becomes a saint not by clothes, but by thoughts. The eligibility criteria for applying under this programme are the applicant should be a permanent resident of the country of India; the applicant should be an elder citizen whose age will be 70 years and above.The scheme ensures that every elderly citizen of the country should live with honour, they dont have to be dependent on anyone for health care expenses. The Kerala Police on Saturday filed a chargesheet against filmmaker and former chairperson of Kerala State Chalachitra Academy Ranjith B in a case filed against him alleging molestation of a Bengali actress in 2009. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the sexual harassment cases in the aftermath of the release of Hema Committee report, filed the chargesheet at the Ernakulam Judicial First Class Magistrate Court. The police had registered the case against Ranjith on August 26 after Bengali actor Sreelekha Mitra filed a police complaint against him for allegedly sexually harassing her in the year 2009. Advertisement In her complaint, sent via email to the Kochi Commissioner of Police, Sreelekha said she had come to the city for discussions related to one of Ranjiths films, called Paleri Manikyam: Oru Pathirakolapathakathinte Katha,and Ranjith allegedly made sexual advances at his apartment in Kaloor. Advertisement During the course of discussion, he clutched my hand and later on attempted to spread his hand to other parts of my body with sexual intention. Realising that his intentions were not the discussion regarding the film and with sexual intent, I had to escape from the flat and return to the hotel where I was staying. My bitter experience was shared on the next day to a script writer Sri Joshy Joseph. As I was not given the traveling ticket for my return journey, I was compelled to seek the help of Sri Joshy Joseph, she said. However, Ranjith claimed that the allegations were fabricated Ranjith has been charged under Section 354 (assaulting or using criminal force against a woman with the intent to outrage her modesty) and Section 509 (acts, words, or gestures that are intended to insult a womans modesty) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The complanant came out against the director after the release of the Justice Hema Committee report on issues faced by women in the Malayalam film industry. The report rocked the Kerala film industry over revelations of harassment by several actors. Following the allegation, Ranjith resigned as chairman of the Kerala Chalachitra Academy,a Kerala government initiative meant to promote Malayalam cinema Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi on Sunday explored opportunities for collaboration to build sustainable infrastructure and strengthen the States position as a key destination for green investments. Majhi on Saturday embarked on a four-day visit to Singapore to highlight the states investment opportunities and attract the global investors to the coastal State. Majhi, since taking oath as the chief minister in June, is visiting a foreign country for the first time. Advertisement The high-level delegation, led by Chief Minister Majhi and Industry Minister Sampad Chandra Swain, commenced with a briefing by Dr. Shilpak Ambule, Indian High Commissioner to Singapore on India-Singapore Business Relations. Advertisement The visit marks a significant outreach effort as part of the upcoming Utkarsh Odisha: Make in Odisha Conclave 2025, showcasing Odishas potential to global investors. The next three days hold significant importance, with planned visits to the Jurong Petrochemicals Region, ITEES, PSA Horizons, and more high-level meetings aimed at strengthening Odishas industrial growth and sustainable development, an official said. The High Commissioner informed the delegation about the recent trade and commerce related developments between the two countries. He also highlighted the role of Indian states like Odisha in further strengthening this bilateral relationship especially in sectors like Chemicals and Petrochemicals, Renewable Energy, Green Fuels, and Skilling. The first meeting was with Dr Edward Morton, Founder, CT Metrix where the developments in the IT/ITeS, Semiconductors, Medical Equipment Manufacturing and Smart City Solutions were discussed. The Chief Minister also assured that the Odisha Government will take all proactive measures to ensure development of a robust Electronics Ecosystem in the state and invited Mr Morton to visit Odisha and explore the business opportunities the state offers. The next meeting was with Vivek Agarwal, Director, Visa Group Limited. He also urged the Visa Group to expand capacity, increase value-added products, and create more employment opportunities in the state in Steel and Ferro-Chrome Sectors. The delegation also met with Rabin Jhunjhunwala, Chairman, Orind Singapore Pte Ltd who is looking to invest in the bio-fertilizers sector. The Chief Minister encouraged Jhunjhunwala to set up the facility in Odisha and assured all necessary support from the Government of Odisha. After the meetings, the delegation led by the Chief Minister visited Sembcorp Industries Ltd, where the delegation explored Singapores advancements in renewable energy. Chief Minister Majhi announced the approval of Sembcorps Green Ammonia project in Odisha. This aligns with the states focus on attracting investments in Renewable Energy, Green Fuels and related Manufacturing Sectors. This is my first foreign visit as Chief Minister, and we chose Singapore for the Odisha Business Meet due to its thriving industrial ecosystem and innovative practices. Singapores excellence in infrastructure, logistics, and urban management presents valuable lessons for our rapidly urbanizing state. India and Singapore share strong economic, strategic, and cultural ties, and Odisha is poised to enhance this partnership, CM Majhi said. My government is committed to providing full facilitation for investors, offering opportunities in sectors like handloom, seafood, and skilled workers. Over the next three days, I will meet with potential investors to foster growth and collaboration, he added. Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted a successful flight-trial of Indias first long-range hypersonic missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha late on Saturday. This hypersonic missile is designed to carry various payloads for ranges greater than 1,500 kms for the Armed Forces. Advertisement The missile was tracked by various range systems, deployed in multiple domains. The flight data obtained from down range ship stations confirmed the successful terminal maneuvers and impact with high degree of accuracy, the Ministry of Defence said on Sunday. Advertisement This missile has been indigenously developed by the laboratories of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile complex, Hyderabad along with various other DRDO laboratories and Industry Partners. The flight-trial was carried out in the presence of senior scientists of DRDO and officers of the Armed Forces. In a post on X, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described the flight-trial as a historic achievement which has put India in the group of select nations having capabilities of such critical and advanced military technologies. He congratulated DRDO, Armed Forces and the Industry for the successful flight trial. Devmali an 1100-year-old village in Rajasthans newly carved out Beawar district that preserves spiritual faith, life chores, culture, and customs in the absolute medieval rural ambiance will soon emerge as a hot tourist destination. The Rajasthan government has resolved to evolve this winner of the Best Tourism Village of India Award 2024 village as a popular destination for domestic and international tourists, Deputy Chief Diya Kumari said on Saturday. Advertisement The dusty but unique village in the Masuda subdivision, about 60 km from here, follows its centuries-old lifestyle, customs, and even commitments made to the village deity Bhagwan Devnarain, the folk-lore divine figure (& an incarnation of lord Vishnu). Advertisement According to folklore, Lord Devnarain visited this place nestled in Aravalli hill spanning around 3000 bigha, about 1100 years ago, in the Vikram Samvat 999, and sought a place to reside in. Locals there faithfully dedicated the entire 3000 bighas of land to the divine and made a cow-dung-made home with a thatched roof. Since then, they have been residing in their homes on lords land without their ownership. Happy with the service and faithful gestures of locals, Bhagwan Devnarain asked the villagers to seek a boon for themselves but the villagers politely declined. The Lord had then blessed all of them with ever-lasting peace and tranquility and also advised them to reside in nature-friendly mud homes with thatched roofs. In view of the (folk) deitys word and also the type of thatched home they provided to their lord, they never constructed pucca houses using concrete, cement, lime, iron/ metal rods, and frames. Even today they reside in mud made thatched-roofed homes. There is no concrete structure in the entire village except the state government offices and the temple of lord Devnarain on the hilltop. Moreover, no one in the village eats non-vegetarian food or consumes alcohol. Also, there is a complete ban on the burning of kerosene and neem wood. Villagers also conveyed that none of the village homes puts locks on their doors. There has not been any case of theft or robbery for the last many decades. All these characteristics of the Devmali and its denizens that give a clear reflection on spiritual faith and firm resolve for the environment, cultural discipline, and social tranquility have obviously attracted the Centre which has launched the best tourism village competition since 2023 to promote tourism to the Soul of India (Indias villages) and this Devmali has been declared winner in the Community based Tourism category for the current year. Devmali is among 36 villages of the country that have been chosen as winners in eight categories from amongst 991 entries received this year for the competition from 30 states. The award was announced in about a couple of months by the government in New Delhi and will be presented to the winners on November 27 later this month. Consequently, the Rajasthan government has also acknowledged the historic spiritual and environmental significance of Devmali and resolved to make efforts to protect its legacy and evolve it appropriately as a hot tourist destination by strengthening infrastructure facilities like connectivity, accessibility, and spiritual and environmental characteristics. With this objective, Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, who also holds the Finance, Tourism Development, and PWD portfolios, paid a visit to Devmali on Saturday and listened to denizens views and demands. Accordingly, she agreed to install a rope-way for easy access to the hilltop Devnarain temple and the laying of a two-lane road between Masuda and the village. The deputy chief minister also issued directives to officials to arrange internet connectivity in the village at the earliest. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Sunday, reaffirmed their commitment to jointly fight terrorism, piracy and radicalisation. Modi is on a state visit to Nigeria from 17 to 18 November. He held official talks with the Nigerian president on Sunday in a restricted meeting followed by delegation-level talks at Abujas Aso Rock Villa, which serves as the office cum residence of the Nigerian Presidency. Advertisement PM Modi recalled his meeting with President Tinubu at the G 20 Summit in New Delhi. He noted that the two countries enjoyed special bonds of friendship defined by a shared past, common democratic values and strong people-to-people ties. Advertisement The prime minister conveyed his sympathies to President Tinubu for the destruction caused by the recent floods in the country. President Tinubu thanked the prime minister for Indias timely assistance with relief material and medicines. The two leaders reviewed the ongoing bilateral cooperation and discussed ways to further strengthen India-Nigeria Strategic Partnership. Expressing satisfaction at the progress of ties, they agreed on the immense potential for collaboration in the fields of trade, investment, education, energy, health, culture, and people-to-people ties. Modi offered Indias experience in agriculture, transportation, affordable medicine, renewable energy, and digital transformation to Nigeria. President Tinubu appreciated the cooperation and partnership offered by India and its meaningful impact on creating local capacities, skills, and professional expertise. The two leaders also discussed enhancing defence and security cooperation. They reaffirmed their commitment to jointly fighting terrorism, piracy and radicalisation, a statement issued by the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) said. Modi and Tinubu also discussed global and regional issues. President Tinubu acknowledged Indias efforts to amplify the concerns of developing countries through the Voice of the Global South Summits. The two leaders agreed to work together to meet the development aspirations of the Global South. The prime minister appreciated the role played by Nigeria as the Chair of ECOWAS and its contribution to multilateral and plurilateral bodies. Alluding to Nigerias membership of the International Solar Alliance and the International Big Cat Alliance, Prime Minister Modi invited President Tinubu to join other pro-planet green initiatives launched by India. Following the talks, three Memoranda of Understanding on Cultural Exchange Programme, Customs Cooperation and Survey Cooperation were signed. This was followed by a state banquet hosted by the President in honour of the prime minister. Earlier, on his arrival at the State House, PM Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome with a 21-gun salute. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken serious note of a fire that broke out in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Maharani Laxmibai Medical College, Jhansi, claiming the lives of 10 newborns. NHRC has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and DGP, requesting a report on the negligence within a week. Advertisement The NHRC has deemed the incident a grave violation of human rights and issued notices to the Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary and Director General of Police directing them to submit a detailed report within a week. Advertisement In a statement released on Saturday, the commission described the reports of the tragedy as disturbing and indicative of negligence by the hospital authorities. It observed that the victims were under the care of a government institution, which failed to ensure their safety. Preliminary investigations suggest that an electrical short circuit may have triggered the fire late Friday night, engulfing the NICU where 54 infants were admitted at the time. The commission has emphasised the critical need for accountability and detailed clarity on the circumstances leading to the disaster. It has asked the state government to include in its report steps taken to ensure justice for the victims and measures adopted to prevent such tragedies in the future. Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday instructed senior officials, including the Divisional Commissioner and Deputy Inspector General of Police in Jhansi, to submit a preliminary report on the incident. UP Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, accompanied by Principal Secretary, Health, Partha Sarthi Sen Sharma, visited the site on Saturday to oversee rescue operations and assess the damage. Earlier on Saturday, the hospital officials reported that while 45 infants were rescued, 16 remain in critical condition. The death toll from the devastating fire in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Jhansi Medical College has risen to 11, officials confirmed on Sunday. The tragedy unfolded late Friday night when a short circuit sparked a fire in the NICU, claiming the lives of 10 newborns initially. Advertisement On Sunday, District Magistrate Avinash Kumar reported the death of another child during treatment, bringing the total fatalities to 11. Advertisement At the time of the incident, the SNCU housed 49 newborns, out of which 39 were rescued. However, the cause of the fire remains unclear. While the hospital administration attributes the fire to a short circuit, officials have yet to provide details about how the electrical failure occurred. Preliminary investigations suggest that the short circuit was caused by an overload of medical equipment in the SNCU. The resulting sparks reportedly ignited the oxygen concentrator, escalating the blaze beyond control. Police are continuing to probe other potential causes of the fire. The SNCU primarily cares for newborns suffering from conditions like jaundice and pneumonia. Experts highlighted that the ward was accommodating three times its intended capacity at the time of the incident. Consequently, critical equipment like warmers and monitoring devices had to operate continuously, causing them to overheat. Hospital administration allegedly failed to regulate the use of this equipment on Friday night, leading to extreme overheating, a short circuit, and eventual oxygen leakage. The leaked oxygen fueled the flames, which rapidly engulfed the ward. Chief Fire Officer Rajkishore Rai confirmed the overload as the likely trigger for the short circuit and stated that other aspects of the incident are under investigation. The incident has raised serious concerns about overcrowding, infrastructure safety, and administrative negligence at the hospital. Authorities have promised a thorough investigation to determine accountability. Violent protests erupted in Manipur after the discovery of six unidentified bodies in Jiribam district, leading to widespread attacks on the homes of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders, including ministers, MLAs, and Chief Minister N Biren Singhs son-in-law, Rajkumar Imo Singh. The bodies, believed to be of the six women and children missing since November 11, were found near the confluence of the Jiri and Barak rivers along the Manipur-Assam border on Friday and Saturday. They were taken to Silchar Medical College and Hospital for post-mortem examinations. The violent protests saw mobs targeting the residences of three ministersSapam Ranjan Singh, Leishangthem Susindro Meitei, and Yumnam Khemchand Singhas well as six other legislators. Protesters also torched vehicles and ransacked properties in Imphal East and Imphal West districts. In response to the unrest, authorities imposed an indefinite curfew in the Imphal valley districts, including Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Thoubal, and Kakching, to prevent further violence. Internet services were also suspended in the affected area. A large contingent of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), paramilitary forces, and state police personnel have been deployed across affected areas as the situation remains tense. The bodies have yet to be identified by family members, but they are believed to be the missing women and children from Jiribam district. They had reportedly disappeared on November 11. Advertisement The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Sunday alleged that the resignation of its senior leader Kailash Gahlot is part of BJPs dirty politics. Reacting to Mr Gahlots resignation from the AAP and Delhis Council of Ministers, senior party leader Sanjay Singh claimed that pressure was built on him through ED and CBI raids. Kailash Gahlots resignation is a part of BJPs dirty politics and conspiracy. Pressure was created on Kailash Gahlot by conducting ED-CBI raids and now he is speaking according to the script given to him by the BJP, Singh alleged. Advertisement Singh further claimed that the Modi washing machine has become active before the assembly elections in Delhi, claiming many leaders will be inducted into the saffron party over the next few months. Advertisement The Modi Washing Machine has become active before the Delhi elections. Now, many leaders will be inducted into the BJP through this machine, the AAP leader added. His remarks came after Gahlot quit the party with assembly elections a few months ahead. Gahlot announced his decision on social media, sharing his resignation letter addressed to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, citing dissatisfaction with the partys current direction and priorities. In the resignation letter, Gahlot highlighted several reasons for leaving the party, pointing to what he described as its deviation from its founding principles. He criticised AAPs political ambitions, stating, Challenges from within, to the very values that brought us together to AAP. Political ambitions have overtaken our commitment towards people, leaving many promises unfulfilled. Gahlot specifically mentioned the worsening state of the Yamuna River as an example, stating, Take for example the YAMUNA, which we had promised to transform into a clean river, but never took any steps to do it. Now the Yamuna River is perhaps even more polluted than ever before. He also expressed disappointment over controversies surrounding the party, including the alleged construction of the Sheesh Mahal, remarking, There are now many embarrassing and awkward controversies like the SHEESHMAHAL, which are now making everyone doubt whether we still believe in being the AAM AADMI. The BJP has used the term Sheesh Mahal for the bungalow where Kejriwal stayed for 10 years and have alleged irregularities in its construction and money spent on costly interiors and household items there. Chhattisgarhs Tribal Welfare Minister, Ramvichar Netam, has ignited a political storm by declaring Prime Minister Narendra Modi a divine incarnation and the God of the tribal community. Speaking at a program in Raipur to mark Tribal Pride Day, Netam praised Modi as an unparalleled leader who has transformed the lives of tribal communities across India. Advertisement No leader ever listened to our problems before, Netam stated. Advertisement Blessed is the land that gave birth to an avatar like Narendra Modi. He is deeply concerned about the tribal community and has launched several schemes for our upliftment. The Dhartii Aaba Tribal Village Upliftment Campaign, initiated by the Prime Minister, will ensure the holistic development of 6,500 villages and their residents in Chhattisgarh. Netams remarks have provoked fierce backlash from the Congress party, which accused him of sycophancy and disrespecting tribal traditions. By equating Modi to a God instead of honoring Budhadev, our traditional deity, Ramvichar Netam has insulted tribal beliefs. The BJP has no right to place its leaders above our gods and faith, a Congress spokesperson retorted. The comments are being viewed as part of a broader strategy to consolidate BJP influence in tribal-dominated regions. Under Modis leadership, the BJP has championed initiatives aimed at improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure for tribal communities. However, critics argue that the party is leveraging religious symbolism to secure electoral gains. For the Congress, the controversy presents an opportunity to position itself as the guardian of tribal heritage. Analysts predict the issue could escalate into a key electoral battleground in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh, where tribal votes often determine outcomes. Observers note that Netams controversial statement reflects a calculated risk by the BJP. By portraying Modi as a savior-like figure, the party seeks to reinforce its commitment to marginalized communities. However, such rhetoric may alienate traditional tribal voters who perceive the deification of political leaders as a challenge to their cultural identity. The BJP faces the challenge of navigating this delicate terrain in the electoral battle. For the Congress, the task lies in countering the BJPs narrative without appearing dismissive of development schemes that have benefited many tribal communities. The debate over Ramvichar Netams remarks has brought tribal concerns and political strategies to the forefront. While the BJP highlights its developmental initiatives, critics question the blending of religious symbolism with governance. For Congress, balancing the protection of tribal traditions with addressing developmental aspirations remains a significant challenge. With tribal communities forming a critical voting bloc in both Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh, the outcome of this discourse could profoundly impact the political landscape. Whether the BJPs gamble will consolidate its tribal base or backfire remains uncertain as both states approach pivotal elections. The proposed Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) in the United States, a new advisory body spearheaded by two prominent figures known for their bold cost-cutting visions, signals a renewed approach to tackling Americas sprawling federal bureaucracy. With entrepreneurs Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy at the helm, President-elect Donald Trump aims to streamline federal spending, reduce regulations, and reshape the nations budgetary priorities. While this initiative sounds transformative, a closer look reveals both promising aspects and potential pitfalls. On the one hand, Mr Musk and Mr Ramaswamy bring unique insights from the private sector, where cost-cutting, innovation, and efficiency are fundamental to success. Mr Musk, in particular, has redefined entire industries ~ from space travel to electric vehicles ~ by questioning and disrupting entrenched norms. His approach to operational efficiency was also evident in his controversial restructuring of the social media platform he acquired, where he drastically reduced the workforce to cut costs. Mr Ramaswamy, known for advocating a smaller government, has similarly proposed eliminating significant portions of federal agencies he believes to be redundant. Advertisement The pairs private-sector experiences could bring fresh ideas to an often unwieldy government structure, which has been plagued by inefficiencies for decades. However, reducing federal expenditures is far more complex than slashing costs in a tech company. Federal agencies exist to provide essential services ~ from national defence to public health and education ~ where reducing staff or eliminating divisions could have serious repercussions. Past attempts to overhaul government spending have repeatedly shown that cutting bureaucracy without diminishing service quality is easier said than done. Mr Musks goal of $2 trillion a year in cuts, for instance, would require unprecedented reductions in programmes that millions of Americans rely on. Advertisement Critics argue that such cuts, if poorly executed, could undermine the social safety net and jeopardise federal stability. Another challenge lies in the nature of the Doge itself. Since it lacks official status, it will serve only in an advisory role without direct authority to enforce recommendations. Additionally, given that its a non-legislative body, it cannot bypass the need for Congressional approval on any proposed budgetary cuts or structural changes. This limited influence raises questions about how much actual impact it can have on reshaping federal spending practices. While the Doge could indeed identify wasteful expenditures, translating its proposals into action may be an uphill battle. Mr Trumps decision to link the Doge initiative to the Manhattan Project ~ historically a symbol of high-stakes national transformation ~ shows his confidence in the advisors he has selected. But drawing parallels to such a pivotal wartime effort may be more symbolic than practical, given the bureaucratic hurdles and the complex public-policy landscape that federal reform entails. In the end, while the Doge may succeed in highlighting inefficiencies and promoting a culture of accountability, the path to tangible reform is riddled with challenges. The vision of a leaner, more efficient government is ambitious and arguably overdue, but it will require a nuanced, informed approach to avoid jeopardising essential services. Divide Jharkhands political landscape illustrates the complexities of a state grappling with rapid urbanisation, stark rural realities, and growing communal tensions. This urban-rural divide has become a defining feature of elections, reflecting the contrasting priorities of its people and the varying effectiveness of political narratives. In urban areas, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has managed to carve out a stronghold by focusing on urbanisation and infrastructure. These densely populated zones, characterised by unchecked real estate growth, expanding peri-urban settlements, and poor civic planning, have become fertile ground for BJPs message of modernisation. Promises of improved roads, 24-hour electricity, and beautification projects resonate with urban voters who are often detached from the broader concerns of rural Jharkhand, such as social equity, land rights, and forced migration. However, urbanisation in Jharkhand has come with significant trade-offs. The rapid conversion of agricultural land for commercial purposes has outpaced the development of essential urban infrastructure. Water supply, waste management, drainage, and public lighting remain inadequate in many areas. Yet, BJPs outreach and ability to dominate the urban discourse often overshadow these deficiencies, leaving other political players struggling to find traction. In contrast, rural Jharkhand remains a bastion of welfare-driven politics. Advertisement The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), with its deep-rooted connections to rural and tribal communities, has centred its governance on schemes addressing poverty and inequality. Programmes like direct cash benefits for women and pensions for the elderly have had a tangible impact on rural lives. These initiatives align with the traditional priorities of rural voters, who value social justice and economic relief over promises of urban growth. The real challenge for the JMM and its allies lies in bridging the gap between their rural stronghold and the increasingly influential urban voter base. Urban voters, swayed by BJPs messaging and its focus on economic growth, often view welfare measures as inadequate responses to their evolving aspirations. Moreover, the BJPs use of communal narratives to polarise voters along religious lines has exacerbated divisions, particularly in urban areas with significant minority populations. Advertisement Jharkhands urban pockets have emerged as hotspots for communal tensions, where elections often become a referendum on identity rather than governance. This polarisation undermines the potential for inclusive development and leaves secular parties at a disadvantage. The absence of sustained outreach and coherent messaging from these parties further cements BJPs dominance in urban constituencies. To challenge this hegemony, the JMM and its allies must recalibrate their approach. A focus on urban infrastructure, combined with sustained efforts to counter communal rhetoric, is essential. Bridging the urban-rural divide requires not just policy shifts but also a narrative that unites the states diverse population. The elections in Jharkhand will be a litmus test for these strategies. Whether welfare-driven politics can expand its appeal or urban-centric narratives will tighten their grip remains a question of critical importance for the states future. AI is hailed as a transformative force for innovation. Generative AI could contribute as much as $115 billion annually to Australias economy by 2030. Most organisations have now implemented AI-powered solutions and services to enhance efficiency, productivity, and enhance the customer experience. However, as we rush toward AI adoption, we must consider whether we are addressing real-world needs or just following trends. The tech world is full of incumbents that missed transformative trends and startups that never found market fit. Blackberrys story is a cautionary tale. Once the beacon of innovation in the mobile phone space, Blackberry quickly lost its prominence when it failed to adapt to changing consumer behaviour. Striking the right and delicate balance between incremental innovation and taking risks is essential. The more noise and hype around the trend (blockchain and generative AI both spring to mind), the more difficult it becomes to discern real value from hype. Those who have the vision to balance both sides of the coin will reap the benefits. Balancing incremental innovation with risk-taking requires a delicate balance. The more noise and hype around the trend (blockchain and generative AI both spring to mind), the more difficult it is to find the signal in the noise that leads to real value. Those who have the vision to balance both sides of the coin will reap the benefits. To fully realise AI's potential, organisations need to listen to and understand their customers needs, especially as Generative AI is now entering its trough of disillusionment. The way out is clear: focusing on customer value and applying AI with nuance and care. Real-world applications: understanding behavioural changes As Australia emerged from the pandemic and focus was on quality of life, one key index of the liveability of a city was the amount of green cover. Leveraging AI capabilities, Nearmap was able to render an AI-layer to detect trees across the country. The leafiest suburbs study uncovered critical insights into urban greenery, which found that a range of cities (such as Adelaide) had disappearing tree cover. These findings helped prompt parliamentary inquiries across Adelaide, Perth and Brisbane and sparked action to course correct. When implementing new technologies and solutions, its vital to understand both the fundamentals of the new technology, and what the customer needs. Neither is sufficient alone. Is there a genuine problem that needs to be solved, or have the glittering lights and attention lured us onto a bandwagon? The stakes are high. Huge rewards are up for grabs in the AI-economy if organisations can get the formula right. Understanding how new technology weaves in with customers' perspectives is an ongoing process, requiring constant feedback and refinement. Innovation should be a continuous, collaborative process. Practitioners in the AI space frequently hold two fascinatingly juxtaposed ideas bemoaning the lack of understanding and use case behind much of the hype, as well as holding a resolute belief in the enormity of the crossroads at which we sit. Make no mistake this isn't about superintelligence, but current tech's practical impact. Big things are happening, yet much of the current noise is misguided. Looking back, AWS emerged from understanding its customers the thousands of SMBs reliant on Amazons e-commerce platform. Facing significant scaling issues Amazon invested in building robust internal systems leading to the launch of AWS. Fast forward to 2024, these investments made AWS one of the largest global cloud providers, a key enabler of the AI revolution. Yes, there are fears and misinformation around AI. As AI-based automation rolls out, rather than merely maintaining results with fewer resources, AI aims to expand and accelerate capabilities. For example, local governments now use aerial imagery and AI for detailed assessments of building growth, environmental impact, and planning, tasks impossible with human resources alone. Organisations must ask: What is the real goal of AI solutions, and what value do they add for customers? Do they mitigate costs, drive productivity, or enhance output quality? Addressing these questions is crucial for business owners and organisations. Customers are your bottom line Constant innovation means new services and solutions are being launched every day, and its no different for Nearmap. We recently released the sixth generation of our AI, which includes dramatic increases in both the quality of results for existing use cases, and breadth of new use cases being unlocked. These advancements, driven by two years of research and development, are designed to directly benefit our customers by enhancing existing solutions and providing new capabilities. While innovate or be left behind looms over organisations, it's critical to ensure that innovation serves as a purpose. Those who pursue technology without aligning with customer needs risk obsolescence, creating products that gather dust rather than deliver value. AI is here to stay, (and to be fair, it has already been around in various forms for decades). Moving from a demo to a product that satisfies market needs is a costly process, and the consequences of rushing in blindly are steep. Poor decisions can lead to reputational damage and lost customer trust. Instead, organisations should focus on understanding their customers, gathering the right ingredients to drive real business impact, and investing in innovation that is unique to their business. Not only will you build customer loyalty, but also, positively benefit your bottom line. By Dr. Michael Bewley, VP of AI and Computer Vision at Nearmap Australia Eleven people were killed, and 11 others injured in Israeli airstrikes on southern and eastern Lebanon, media reported. According to the official National News Agency (NNA) on Saturday, six people from the same family were killed, and 11 others were injured in an Israeli raid on a house in the village of Khreibeh in the eastern Baalbek-Hermel Governorate. Advertisement In addition, five employees of the Nabatieh municipality were also killed in an Israeli raid that targeted a municipal warehouse, the report said. Advertisement Military sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Israeli warplanes and drones carried out about 90 raids on Saturday on villages and towns in southern and eastern Lebanon, and Israeli artillery bombarded 16 villages and towns with about 75 shells. In separate statements on Saturday, Hezbollah announced that it destroyed an Israeli Merkava tank with a guided missile in the village of Chamaa, southern Lebanon, which led to casualties among its crew, Xinhua news agency reported. The group added that it targeted with missiles gatherings of Israeli soldiers and vehicles that infiltrated towns in the border area in southern Lebanon, and targeted with rockets several Israeli sites and gatherings in northern Israel, including those in the cities of Acre, Haifa, Safed, and Kiryat Shmona. Since September 23, the Israeli army has intensified its air attack on Lebanon in an escalation of conflict with Hezbollah. Israel further initiated a ground operation across its northern border into Lebanon in early October. According to the Lebanese Health Ministry, the death toll from Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon since the beginning of the war on October 8, 2023, reached 3,452, and injuries went up to 14,664. Abuja citys air was filled with Bharat Mata Ki Jai and Vande Mataram chants as the Indian Diaspora awaited the arrival of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Nigeria on Saturday. The city was decked out with posters and hoardings of PM Modi early on Saturday as the Prime Minister emplaned from India for his five-day visit to three nations including Nigeria. PM Modi is scheduled to arrive in Abuja on Saturday (local time). Nigeria is the first stop in the PMs five-day visit to three nations where the head of both nations aims to strengthen the strategic ties. After his visit to Nigeria from November 16 to 17, PM Modi will be heading to Brazil for the G-20 summit. PM Modis final destination is Guyana. The Indian diaspora expressed their enthusiasm surrounding PM Modis maiden visit. We are very enthusiastic to meet our PM. This is his maiden visit to Nigeria. We welcome him, Girish Jaikar, a member of Indian diaspora told ANI. Advertisement Ramesh Malik, President of Odia Association in Nigeria, emphasised on India-Nigeria strategic ties and hoped that the PMs visit would bring fruitful results for the diaspora. An Indian PM is coming to Nigeria after 15 years. We are very energetic and enthusiastic. We have a lot of hope from PM Modi because India-Nigeria ties need to be improved. We hope that his visit will give a fruitful result, Ramesh Malik said. In his departure statement ahead of his visit, PM Modi stated that he would be first visiting Nigeria at the invitation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu with a focus on reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two nations. The Prime Minister will also be meeting with the Indian community in Nigeria during his visit. He will be there in the African nation from November 16 to 17. Advertisement At the invitation of H.E. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this will be my first visit to Nigeria, which is our close partner in the West African region. My visit will be an opportunity to build upon our Strategic Partnership that is based on shared belief in democracy and pluralism. I am also eagerly looking forward to meeting the Indian community and friends from Nigeria who have sent me warm welcome messages in Hindi, the statement read. Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed on Saturday for his five-day visit to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday received a ceremonial welcome at Abujas Aso Rock Villa, which serves as the office and residence of the Nigerian Presidency, ahead of his one-on-one meeting with the countrys President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. PM Modi, who reached Abuja earlier today on a State Visit the first by an Indian PM in 17 years and also his first to the West African region will then hold delegation level talks that will review bilateral relations and also explore avenues to further expand and enhance the relationship between the two countries. Advertisement At the invitation of PM Modi, the Nigerian President had visited India last year for the G20 Summit as a guest country that eventually also paved the way for the African nation to participate in the upcoming G20 Summit in Brazil as an invitee country. Advertisement According to the Ministry of External Affairs, at least five Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) will be exchanged following the bilateral talks, covering areas of culture, geological survey, digital public infrastructure, customs, traditional medicine, audio-visual cooperation, etc. Nigeria, one of the largest economies in the continent, enjoys a strong and cordial relationship with India since 1960 after gaining independence. India-Nigeria relationship is underpinned by shared values of democracy, respect for pluralism, rule of law and diversity. Both the countries are multi-religious, multi-ethnic and multi-linguistic countries. And most importantly in recent times, Nigerias active involvement in the African Union has increased and we see there is a strong partnership between our two countries in the context of India-Africa Forum Summit. Nigeria also has become a partner country of BRICS and it is currently holding the Chairship of the ECOWAS region, that is the West African region, stated Dammu Ravi, MEAs Secretary for Economic Relations, ahead of the PMs visit. India has offered close to $400 million of development assistance to Nigeria, of which only $100 million has been used so far for various projects, particularly in the power sector, while $290 million is being repurposed for other initiatives and areas of interest. India also offered around 500 ITEC scholarships to Nigeria, 250 each for civilian and defence experts who come to India for training. Overall, since the 1960s, India has trained about 27,500 Nigerian experts in India. As you all know that Indias involvement in Africa has been very long. Indian teaching and teachers have been there in that country for several decades. Our teachers have helped to teach the students of several generations in Nigeria. Our defence cooperation is very active. Our military officers have helped to establish defence institutions, particularly the National Defence Academy, the National War College in Nigeria, said Ravi. Later in the day, Prime Minister Modi will interact with the Indian diaspora at a community event before leaving for Brazil to attend the G20 Summit. The Indian diaspora is very strong, about 60,000. It is the largest diaspora in West Africa. People-to-people contacts have been very strong and enduring. The bilateral trade has been very strong also, about $15 billion, close to it, and a significant part of it is oil imports from Nigeria into India. We also have a strong presence of the Indian companies in Nigeria, about $27 billion in cumulative terms has been invested by Indian companies in Nigeria. 200 Indian companies involved in a variety of sectors and Indian companies are the second largest employment provider in that country, detailed the MEA Secretary. Earlier, as PM Modi arrived in Abuja late Saturday night, local time, he was welcomed by the Nigerian President at the airport and also members of the Indian community in the country who chanted Bharat Mata Ki Jai and Vande Mataram as the PM interacted briefly with them. Landed a short while ago in Nigeria. Grateful for the warm welcome. May this visit deepen the bilateral friendship between our nations, PM Modi posted on X. The PM also thanked the Indian diaspora in Nigeria for the warm welcome. Heartwarming to see the Indian community in Nigeria extending such a warm and vibrant welcome! he wrote. South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba underscored their shared commitment to bilateral cooperation during their talks on the margins of a multilateral summit in Peru, amid growing concerns over North Korean military threats. Yoon and Ishiba held their second in-person summit in a month on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in Lima amid rising concerns over North Koreas troop deployment to Russia in support of Moscows protracted war in Ukraine, Yonhap news agency reported. Advertisement As military cooperation between Russia and North Korea has led to the Norths troop deployment, regional and global situations have been rapidly changing since our first meeting, Yoon said in his opening remarks. Advertisement Todays meeting is more meaningful at a time when close coordination between South Korea and Japan is now more crucial than ever before, he added. Ishiba echoed Yoons view, stressing the need for closer collaboration between the two nations. Continuing to strengthen cooperation between Japan and South Korea is an important task considering the grave security situation surrounding both countries, including recent (developments) about North Korea, Ishiba said through a translator. The leaders agreed to deepen bilateral ties as the two countries prepare to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the normalisation of diplomatic ties next year. Their meeting came a day after a trilateral summit with US President Joe Biden, during which the leaders condemned military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang and reiterated their commitment to trilateral collaboration. US President-elect Donald Trump has announced that oil and gas industry executive Chris Wright, a staunch defender of fossil fuel use, would be his choice to lead the Department of Energy. As Secretary of Energy, Chris will be a key leader, driving innovation, cutting red tape, and ushering in a new Golden Age of American Prosperity and Global Peace, Trump said on Saturday in a statement. Advertisement Trump added that Wright will also serve as part of a new Council of National Energy, which the President-elect unveiled on Friday, saying that it will consist of all Departments and Agencies involved in the permitting, production, generation, distribution, regulation, transportation, of ALL forms of American Energy. Advertisement Wright is the founder and CEO of Liberty Energy, an oilfield services firm based in Denver. He is expected to support Trumps plan to maximise the production of oil and gas and to seek ways to boost the generation of electricity, demand for which is rising for the first time in decades. He is also likely to share Trumps opposition to global cooperation in fighting climate change. Wright has called climate change activists alarmist and has likened efforts by Democrats to combat global warming to Soviet-style communism. There is no climate crisis, and were not in the midst of an energy transition, either, Wright said in a video posted to his LinkedIn profile last year. Wright, who does not have any political experience, has written extensively on the need for more fossil fuel production to lift people out of poverty. He has stood out among oil and gas executives for his freewheeling style and describes himself as a tech nerd. Wright made a media splash in 2019 when he drank fracking fluid on camera to demonstrate it was not dangerous. US oil output hit the highest level any country has ever produced under President Joe Biden, and it is uncertain how much Wright and the incoming administration could boost that. Most drilling decisions are driven by private companies working on land not owned by the federal government. The Department of Energy handles US energy diplomacy, administers the Strategic Petroleum Reserve which Trump has said he wants to replenish and runs grant and loan programs to advance energy technologies, such as the Loan Programs Office. The Secretary also oversees the aging US nuclear weapons complex, nuclear energy waste disposal, and 17 national labs. If confirmed by the Senate, Wright will replace Jennifer Granholm, a supporter of electric vehicles, emerging energy sources like geothermal power, and a backer of carbon-free wind, solar, and nuclear energy. Wright will also likely be involved in permitting electricity transmission and the expansion of nuclear power, an energy source that is popular with both Republicans and Democrats but which is expensive and complicated to permit. Power demand in the US is surging for the first time in two decades amid growth in artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, and cryptocurrencies. I am a great one for trivia. If trivia contests were an Olympic sport, I would have certainly won many a medal for India. If you dont believe me, ask my well-informed wife, who keeps benefitting from the esoteric nuggets of information that I share with her. Just a few days back, as I was getting ready to go to the bank, I recalled an interesting fact that I simply had to impart to her. Even as she didnt stop going about her silly chores, I asked her whether she had heard of the Wasika Office in Lucknow. Suddenly she was all ears, though she pretended to continue ironing some clothes. This Wasika department in Hussainabad doles out pensions to the erstwhile nawabs of Awadh. Well, not the nawabs; but the progeny of the nawabs and the progeny of the progeny. There are more than a thousand such pensionerswasikedars, as they are called. They draw wondrously meagre pensions from the government that range from just one rupee to a few hundred a month. I waxed eloquent about these descendants of the nawabs who converge with ancestral pride to collect their pensionstrifling amounts that are less than the cost of travel to the pension office. Still they come from near and far to celebrate the nawabiyat coursing through their veins. But they cant survive on past glory alone, so these latter-day nawabs have other pursuits and professionsfrom pulling rickshaws in the by-lanes of Lucknow to running successful business enterprises in India and abroad. Many might be modest clerks and bus conductors and tailors and paanwalas; but on the day they come to receive their pensions, they doll up in smartly starched chikan kurtas and sherwanis. My wife was clearly not impressed by my vast store of information. Are you even listening? I asked irritably. Illustration: Job P.K. I am listening, stupid, she said calmly. You are a retired old man with nothing to do, but I am a homemaker and homemakers never retire. You can afford to go on prattling about nawabs and pensions and other such nonsense, whereas I have work to do. I dont have all day. Nor do you for that matter, if you want to reach the bank in time. I am waiting for Gopu, I said. We will go together to submit our life certificates. You know that to continue getting our pensions, we have to inform the bank in November every year that we are alive and kicking and have not yet kicked the bucket. I do so wish you would not mix your metaphors. And also that you would not mix with people like that no-good Gopu! His name is Gopu, and not that no-good Gopu, I remonstrated. Gopu arrived just then and I appealed to his good sense to convince the little woman that knowledge about the nawabs and wasikedars was essential for leading a perfect and happy life. So what is this wasikedar poppycock? he asked. I then had no option but to educate Gopu. About the nawabs, the starched chikan kurtas, the paanwala who you would never suspect of being a nawab and the paltry royal pensions. But I thought it was us who got a pittance as a pension, he asserted. Isnt it amazing, he continued, we were fortunate to get the best paying government jobs 50-odd years ago and our pay was Rs400 a month. It seemed unlikely then, but we hoped to reach the pinnacle of our careers by the time we retired and dreamt of getting the highest government pay of Rs3,000! Strangely, while our salaries, and then our pensions, increased many times over, our level of poverty has remained almost constant. Well, its not that bad, I said, We do get handsome pensions. Certainly, said my friend. But the government takes back a third of it as income tax! And dont forget the GST. On an average, you and I pay around 20 per cent tax on everything that we buy. Therefore, the government takes back more than half of our so-called handsome pensions. I had to agree with that. The little woman chipped in. Considering that this guys main expenditure is on petrol and whisky, he pays yet higher taxes. Probably more than 60 per cent! I looked at Gopu disconsolately. That is so true! I wonder if it is really worth all the bother? Are you suggesting that we dont go to the bank to give the life certificate because the pension is peanuts? he asked. It certainly is peanuts! But dont the descendants of the nawabs come to collect a few rupees because the pension proves their royal connections? Similarly, we too need to rejoice our past sarkari connections. Furthermore, the leftover nawabs have additional means of livelihood, while we have nothing. Nothing at all! Not even a paan shop! Meekly, I left for the bank with Gopu to tender my life certificate to prove that I am alive. The tiger may be subsisting on peanuts, but it is alive, dammit! Tiger zinda hai! K.C. Verma is former chief of R&AW. kcverma345@gmail.com The new lab, scheduled for installation in February 2025, will feature several Rockwell Automation technologies, designed to train the next generation of Australian engineers, manufacturers, and innovators. The new lab is being built by Applied Robotics for TAFE Queensland, funded through the Queensland Governments $100 million Equipping TAFE for our Future program. Weve had a long partnership with Rockwell, extending more than 30 years, so when we won the project to deliver this smart manufacturing lab, we knew Rockwell had the expertise and technologies to meet our needs, said Isaac Roach, chief operating officer, Applied Robotics, which is a Silver OEM partner in Rockwells Automation Partner Network. Not many suppliers have all the technologies under one roof, but with Rockwell, we could get IoT [Internet of Things], MES [Manufacturing Execution Systems], logistics technologies, PLCs [Programmable Logic Controllers], digital twin visualisation, and AMRs [Autonomous Mobile Robots] all from the one supplier, he added. Applied Robotics is an OEM solutions provider that caters to the more complex end of automation, and Rockwell is one of our preferred suppliers due to its quality product, technical expertise, and customer service. The new lab, to be installed at TAFE Queenslands Ipswich campus, will focus on training students in areas such as robotics, CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining, machine vision and learning, and automated logistics and storage. A key outcome set out by the TAFE was that we needed to be able to train the trainers, so they are well-equipped to teach students in the new lab. Rockwell was instrumental in achieving this, particularly with its Plex software running the entire system with control down to the device level, said Roach. Plex is a Software as a Service (SaaS) Smart Manufacturing Platform that connects people, systems, machines, and supply chains. It is a digital system of record that automates business processes, tracks data from the shop floor to the top floor, and delivers analytics to improve visibility, quality, and control. Its vital to nurture the next generation of manufacturing talent, and advanced labs like this will help train Australias innovators and entrepreneurs of the future, said Anthony Wong, regional director, South Pacific, Rockwell Automation. In addition to providing advanced industrial automation technologies, backed by expertise in the field, Rockwell also tailored its technologies to the educational environment. Rockwell is assisting in the design of a twinned PLC System for the room, which means that students could programme and test their skills using one PLC, but it could always be flipped back to the original settings if something didnt work. This is a really clever system for an educational setup, and Rockwell took that challenge on and delivered an ideal result, said Roach. Another feature of the smart lab will be Rockwells Emulate3D, a digital twin software that enables a total digital visualisation of plant. In workforce applications, Emulate3D allows users to create, fine tune, and test designs before they are built, saving the large costs often associated with redesigning a factory after the fact. In an educational context, students can trial their designs in an environment that accurately mirrors real life, said Roach. The lab will also feature Rockwells OTTO Motors AMRs. This is one of the first local installations of OTTO which came as part of Rockwells acquisition of Clearpath Robotics in 2023. AMRs are at the forefront of industrial automation, so it was important to include them in the smart manufacturing lab. OTTO Motors AMRs are respected globally for enhancing productivity for manufacturing facilities, so we were excited to include them in our designs, said Roach. With the TAFE Queensland advanced manufacturing lab underway, Applied Robotics is already looking at new opportunities. People are impressed with what this industry and education partnership is set to achieve, and weve already had other educational institutions in Australia interested in a similar set up. We are excited about these possibilities, and will look to continue to expand our strong partnership with Rockwell to continue delivering for the Australian education sector, concluded Roach. One of the first times I saw a queue outside a luxury store was at the Louis Vuitton store at the DLF Emporio Mall in 2020. The world had just begun to grasp what Covid-19 was, and social distancing was the norm. That said, the Vuitton store was the only one which welcomed up to five people at a time. The Dior store right across did not have a closed-door policy. I remember taking a picture and walking by, thinking this would be the new normal. Everything was new in 2020, and nothing was normal at all. A few weeks back, I found myself queuing up outside the Loewe store in New Yorks Soho. Covid-19 has been long forgotten like a bad dream, and the only masks we wear are metaphorical. But Loewe was such an au courant brand, its new creative head JW Anderson has turned a boring old Spanish company into a surrealist fantasy. I wanted to see up close what the fuss was about. So, I queued up, too. And took another picture. Just 10 minutes later I was in. I asked the cheerful sales executive why I was made to wait outside as the store was not really crowded. I was informed that the brand wanted to ensure that every customer has a sales associate taking care of them. Ok, wow. The queue outside Loewes Soho store But is this good service? Nope. There is no joy in waiting on the street to be allowed into a store to browse or buy. Luxury shopping needs to be a luxurious experience. The Vuitton store in Mumbais Taj Mahal hotel would serve its guests a glass of champagne when they walked in. (They still serve you tea or coffee, in a full-service tea set, and you can sit by their large windows as they bring you your favourite sneakers in your size.) The Sabyasachi store in New Yorks Christopher Street serves you rose-flavoured tea in vintage hand-painted china, along with ginger biscuits, while you browse and are regaled with stories of the great Indian design wizard. This is luxury. Not being told to wait your turn until they accept your money. The Financial Times writes on queues outside luxury stores upon spotting one during the Paris Fashion Week in September, at the new The Row store on the dull Mont Thabor, just a few streets away from Chanels iconic Rue Cambon boutique. (It seems there was a 50 minute wait to get into Chanel, too.) Brands are just creating a false hype and exclusivity around their names by introducing a door policy. Officially, their word is that they want to ensure you are ably and amply served. And that they want to prevent shoplifting, which seems to prevail when the stores are crowded. But a new and not-so-normal post-Covid phenomenon are the break-ins and robberies that are taking place at premium and luxury labels in San Francisco, Los Angeles, London, Miami and Paris. How do they beat that? They cant, despite an alarm system and CCTV cameras, and cops that look like they belong on TV. Meanwhile, the Apple stores in Mumbai and Delhi reported unprecedented queues on September 20, when the iPhone 16 was launched. Some customers waited in line for 21 hours for their phones. I even read a report about a customer who waited in line, ordered the phone online and received it while he was still in queue. Lets hope they served him coffee at least. X@namratazakaria Most of us claim to be nice people. We work hard, we give to charity, we love our families, we dont cheat, we pay our taxes, we are kind, we respect teachers, we dont jump red lights, we respect other faiths, we read to children, we believe in democracy, we cheer free speech, and we hate Donald Trump. We think all nice people do all these things. Many such nice people in Americathere are nice people in America, tooare now in a spot. Just like nice people dont know how to tell their kids about cheating spouses, hookers and paid sex, they dont know how to tell their kids about Donald Trump. Trump, in their eyes, too, has been doing things what nice people shouldnt be doing. He behaves boorishly, he tells lies, breaks laws, sleeps with hookers and does all things that genteel people dont do. Then how did nice people elect him? Liberals elsewhere in the world are also flummoxed. They all hate Trump, worry about American democracy, and wonder what will befall the free world under this boor. Imaging: Deni Lal Indeed, Trump is a boor. Even those Indians who adored him were convinced so, after that Sunday morning call four years ago wherein he threatened Narendra Modi with retaliation if Modi didnt send supplies of the Covid drug hydroxychloroquine. That sounded more like a loan recovery man than the leader of the free world. But then, Americans have come a long way since the days of Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson. Indeed, they have had great presidents like Woodrow Wilson and Franklin Roosevelt since, but had their share of boors and bullies, tooa Harry Truman who atom-bombed Japan, a Dick Nixon who rigged an election, called Indira Gandhi a witch and sent warships to bully us, a Ron Reagan who used to act in B-grade films and lied on the Iran-Contra deal, and a George W. Bush who invaded Iraq for no reason. But look at them more dispassionately, and wed see that these Ron-Dick-and-Harry types did more good to America than did some nice guys like Jimmy Carter, Barack Obama or Joe Biden. First, look at the records of these gentlemen. Carter brokered between Israel and Egypt but got shamed by the mullahs of Iran. Obama talked big, bagged a peace Nobel for himself, but did nothing in 10 years except kill a mountain rat who was hiding in a Pakistani hideout. Biden ran away from Afghanistan like a coward, leaving the land to the Taliban whom Americans had fought for 20 years. These men of vision earned more shame than glory for America. Now look at the scoundrels. Truman ended a tiring war quickly, rebuilt a bombed-out Europe, and created a free world for America to defend. Nixon effected the greatest tectonic shift in Cold War politics by reaching out to China, and even showed a visionary trait by proclaiming the Guam doctrine. Reagan asserted the moral supremacy of the west, undermined the Soviet empire and won the Cold War. And the bully Bush gave us Indians the nuclear deal. Who knows what Trump would or wouldnt do? In his first term he made a surprise reach-out to North Korea, never before tried by any western leader, and hammered out the till-then unthinkable Abraham Accords between the Jews and the Sunni Arabs. And who knows, in his second term he wouldnt pull it off with pal Putin over Ukraine? We may not like them, but these boors led America as a great power should be led, or how the voters in a great power wanted to be led. We can stand up to them and yet prevail as Indira did to Nixon, if we have the grit and the will. Strength will respect strength. prasannan@theweek.in Pop culture works according to its own unpredictable, crazy logic. An unlikely, overnight celebrity has become the talk of India. Everyone, especially on social media, is discussing, dissing, hissing and mimicking just one personShalini Passi. Passi has smoothly replaced Orry as the most dissected media concoction, after stealing the show from rivals in a much-watched OTT seriesFabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives, which showcases the impossibly opulent worlds of a bunch of women, whose sole purpose in life is to flaunt and taunt. In such a brittle world, one superlatively delicious, ever-smiling woman bathed in all things luxe, from top to toe (think Cleopatra meets Padmavati), enchants and disarms viewers with her beatific presence, as she unselfconsciously sings off-key songs and effortlessly makes others look insecure and trashy. She is even dressed in floaty designer gowns, which generously reveal an impressive cleavage. Today, Passi is the most sought-after celebrity, with event managers and talent hunters breaking down the doors to her palatial Delhi mansion, to sign her up for shows, appearances and endorsements. So, how does one decode the Passi phenomenon? Her pampered lifestyle is the envy of the less fortunate, as she hosts a ridiculously extravagant party and speaks softly about her familys wealth and her own achievements as an art patron and philanthropist. Shalini Passi in Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives | Instagram@shalini.passi The staggering decor at Passis palace includes rare Flemish furniture, cheek by jowl with a Bharti Kher. Somehow, none of this sounds boastful or absurdit is indeed the fantastical existence of a 49-year-old rich woman, who is not embarrassed or apologetic about any of her choices. Passi was married at age 20. Talking about her early life and wedding, she casually mentions how M.F. Husain was commissioned by her husband to design the invitation cards. But, first, I need to see the girl, said Husain, before producing four cards for different functions, after declaring the couple a Radha Krishna jodi. Passis radiant mien underlines her beliefs, which include daily meditation and a visit to the temple at 9pm. I can vouch for her religious commitmentsI am on the privileged list of prasad recipients who get hand-delivered packages of offerings after Passis frequent pilgrimages that take her from Tirupati to Badrinath. The few times we have met at glittering social soirees, I have been struck by her calm beauty and peaceful expression. As the founder of MASH, Passi has positioned herself as a major patron of the arts, lending support to UNICEF and other prestigious organisations. Since 2018, Passi has worked relentlessly to establish her credentials as an important art collector (what with a 25-feet tall Subodh Gupta dominating her manicured lawns). But it took a glitzy, shallow frou-frou show on Netflix to propel Passi into a cult figure in the fickle domain of popular culture. Even school children know her name and discuss her avidly during snack breaks. It is not about affluence and extravagance alonethere are far richer folks around. What happens next will be fascinating to monitor. A film based on her life? A musical with her playing the diva? A web series of her own? Fashion label? Anything is possible for Passithe world is her oyster. As for her Mumbai rivals, Passi makes them passe. Passi has the ultimate put downeach time she flies to Maximum City, she brings her superior Delhi veggies with her! Take that, you wannabes, her Buddha like stance suggests, as she shrugs off their barbs and preps for the next publicity blitzkrieg. X@DeShobhaa and Instagram@shobhaade India has successfully flight-tested a long-range hypersonic missile off Odisha coast, an achievement that has put the nation among a select group of countries with such critical and advanced military technologies. This is Indias first long-range hypersonic missile, indigenously developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The flight trial was conducted by DRDO from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off Odisha Coast on Saturday, in the presence of senior scientists of the research organisation and officers from the armed forces. The hypersonic missile is capable of carrying payloads for ranges greater than 1,500kms for the armed forces, DRDO said in a statement. The @DRDO_India has successfully conducted a flight trial of its long range hypersonic missile on 16th Nov 2024 from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, off-the-coast of Odisha. Raksha Mantri Shri @rajnathsingh has congratulated DRDO, Armed Forces and the Industry for successful flight pic.twitter.com/wq7yM2YS9f / RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) November 17, 2024 The missile was tracked by various range systems, deployed in multiple domains. The flight data obtained from down-range ship stations confirmed the successful terminal manoeuvres and impact with high degree of accuracy, it said. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded DRDO and other stakeholders for achieving this feat. Calling it a major milestone for India, Rajnath Singh said in a tweet, "India has achieved a major milestone by successfully conducting flight trial of long range hypersonic missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, off-the-coast of Odisha. This is a historic moment and this significant achievement has put our country in the group of select nations having capabilities of such critical and advanced military technologies, Singh tweeted. According to reports, the successful test-fire has put the country among a select group of nations possessing weapons that can strike with extreme speed and evade most air defence systems. The missile was indigenously developed by the laboratories of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile complex, Hyderabad along with various other DRDO laboratories and industry partners. Hypersonic missiles that are capable of carrying conventional explosives or nuclear warheads can fly in the range of five times the speed of sound (Mach 5 which is roughly 1,220km) per hour at sea level, PTI reported. However, some advanced hypersonic missiles can even fly at the speed of over Mach 15. As per reports, while Russia and China are way ahead in developing hypersonic missiles, the US has launched an ambitious programme to develop a range of such weapons. Several other countries, including France, Germany, Australia, Japan, Iran, and Israel are also working on projects to develop hypersonic missile systems. Actor Kasthuri Shankar, who was arrested over her alleged defamatory remark against Telugu-speaking people, has been remanded in judicial custody till November 29 by a Chennai court. She was later escorted to Puzhal central jail. Kasthuri was arrested from Hyderabad on Friday, a day after the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court dismissed her anticipatory bail petition. A Chennai police team traced her to a film producer's house in the Telangana capital and effected the arrest. After preliminary questioning at the Chintadripet All Women Police Station in Chennai, she was produced before a Magistrate Court in Egmore, who remanded her in judicial custody. "Kasturi was hiding at film producer Hari Krishnan's house in Hyderabad. She was using Hari's mobile phone to speak to her friends and lawyer," a police officer told the Times of India. Actor Kasthuri Shankar being grilled in Chennai Arrested in Hyderabad, Transferred to Chennai for Questioning. Kasthuri, who was arrested in Hyderabad, has been transported to Chennai and is currently at the Sindathirippet Police Station for questioning. Kasthuri Shankar, pic.twitter.com/mzYLIuXTry Sudhakar Udumula (@sudhakarudumula) November 17, 2024 The actor made the controversial remark last week during a Brahmin meet in Chennai. She allegedly claimed that the Telugu speaking people, who had come to Tamil Nadu centuries ago to serve the then rulers, were now claiming to be Tamils, while Tamil Brahmins were not considered Tamil. The remarks sparked a storm, and a member of the Naidu Mahajana Sangam State Executive Committee filed a case against the actor. The actor tendered an apology and accused the anti-Hindu DMK network of spreading false news about her statement. "People of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana will never fall for their lies. No one dares to insult my love and loyalty for the Telugu land that has given me love and acceptance, she said. The big fat Indian wedding gets even bigger when it comes to celebrities. Actors Naga Chaitanya and Sobhita Dhulipala are tying the knot in December and now the photos of their wedding invitation and goodies basket are doing rounds on social media. The wedding invitation stands apart with a basket filled with goodies for the guests. These include clothes, flowers, food and a scroll. The wedding card revealed the auspicious date as December 4, 2024. The ceremony will take place at Annapurna Studios in Hyderabad that was founded by Naga Chaitanya's grandfather. Earlier, Sobhita posted photos of her Godhuma Raayi Pasupu Danchadam, a pre-wedding ceremony in Telugu tradition. The actor couple got engaged during a private ceremony in Hyderabad after dating for more than a year. The groom's father Nagarjuna Akkineni announced the engagement, welcoming Sobhita to the family. Their first photos as a couple emerged when Naga Chaitanya posted a selfie with Sobhita on Instagram with the caption, "Everything everywhere all at once." On the screen, Naga Chaitanya will be next seen in Tandheel, which is slated for release in February. Delhis air quality continues to remain severe as residents in the national capital woke up to toxic air conditions on Sunday. At 11am, Delhis AQI stood at 450, as per the Central Pollution Control Board. Smoggy conditions prevailed in the national capital on Sunday. On Saturday, the 24-hour average AQI was recorded at 417. Considering the worsening air quality conditions in the national capital, the Delhi government imposed GRAP III regulations on Friday, restricting the use of private vehicles and unnecessary construction works. According to reports, AQI was above 400 in most of the 35 monitoring stations in the national capital. As per the Central Pollution Control Board, an AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe". The Supreme Court on Monday will hear a plea regarding measures to curb in the national capital. A bench of Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih is slated to hear the plea, as per the Supreme Courts cause list. The bench had agreed to list the matter after senior advocate Aparajita Singh, who has been assisting the apex court as an amicus curiae in the matter, requested for urgent hearing looking at the prevailing situation in Delhi, PTI reported. The amicus curiae has reportedly informed the court that the Commission of Air Quality Management should explain measures to curb pollution. Recently, the Supreme Court criticised the Delhi government and police for poor implementation of firecracker ban during Diwali. While hearing the case, the Court observed right to live in a pollution-free atmosphere was a fundamental right of every citizen, protected by Article 21 of the Constitution. The SC also directed the state government to consider a perpetual ban on firecrackers. The Election Commission has directed its Jharkhand poll chief to direct the Bharatiya Janata Party to take down a "misleading and divisive" video posted on social media. The Commission took a serious note of complaints filed by the Congress and the JMM and sought an explanation from the state BJP for the alleged violation of the provisions of the model code of conduct. The Congress and the JMM in their complaint had alleged that the video shared by the BJP is rife with baseless allegations and falsehoods to unduly influence voters by creating a feeling of hatred and enmity. "On perusal of the complaint, it appears that the above referred social media post is prima facie violative of the MCC. It is therefore, directed to take immediate action as per existing laws and procedures and thereafter direct the concerned social media platforms, through the authority designated in the State of Jharkhand under section 79(3)(b) of the IT Act to take down the referred posts immediately," the poll panel said in its order. Meanwhile, in a separate complaint, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh accused the Jharkhand BJP of spreading "false and misleading" information on social media. He also alleged that the BJP was indulging in a divisive campaign despite the registration of a criminal case in this regard. The second phase of Jharkhand assembly elections will be held on November 20 while the first phase of the poll took place on November 13. The votes will be counted on November 23. While the JMM-Congress coalition aims to retain power, the BJP hopes to make considerable inroads in the tribal-dominated state. The alleged infiltration of Bangladeshi nationals and the changing demography of the state have been the focus of the saffron partys election campaigns. Kailash Gahlot did not have any choice and he was being probed by Enforcement Directorate and Income Tax for months, said Aam Aadmi Party leader Durgesh Pathak on the former Delhi ministers resignation. Pathak made the response when AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal refused to answer and passed the microphone to him. Former Delhi transport minister Kailash Gahlot resigned on Sunday from AAP, charging the partys political ambitions have overtaken the commitment towards the people. While Gahlot resigned, former Bharatiya Janata Party legislator Anil Jha joined AAP in the presence of Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday. Addressing presspersons, Kejriwal welcomed Jha to the party and said he is considered one of the biggest leaders of Purvanchal. However, when Kejriwal was asked about Gahlots resignation, he refused to answer and handed over the microphone to senior party leader Durgesh Pathak. Responding to the question, Pathak said, Kailash Gehlot was being questioned and raided by ED and Income Tax for months. So he did not have a choice. But this makes it clear that the BJP has lost the Delhi election. They have no issue, they are fighting on the basis of ED, CBI and Income Tax and we are fighting on people's issues," NDTV reported. AAP leader Sanjay Singh also accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of threatening opposition leaders with probe by central agencies.Kailash Gahlot has been raided by the ED, Income Tax many times. He was part of the government for five years, and the BJP was continuously conspiring against him, he was left with no other option but to go with the BJP, Singh told PTI. Singh dismissed Gahlots allegations mentioned in his resignation as mere repetition of BJPs accusations. He is now repeating what BJP says, it is the conspiracy of the BJP, Singh said. AAP's national spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar said Gahlot decided to resign and join the BJP to escape jail. There were a lot of cases of ED and CBI on Kailash Gahlot. He chose to join BJP rather than struggling in jails, Kakkar said. Kailash Gahlot resigned from primary membership of the party on Sunday and said the AAPs "political ambitions have overtaken the commitment towards the people". Gahlot said AAP faced "grave challenges from within". Gahlot charged, Real progress for Delhi cannot happen if the Delhi Government spends the majority of its time fighting with the Centre." Gahlot also said the party there are many embarrassing and awkward controversies like Sheeshmahal which are now making everyone doubt whether we still believe in being the Aam Aadmi. The law and order situation in Manipur deteriorated further on Saturday evening after an angry mob, protesting against the death of six hostages from Jiribam, tried to storm the residence of Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh at Heingang in Imphal East. This came as protesters ransacked the houses of three state ministers and six MLAs, including that of Chief Minister N Biren Singh's son-in-law. The mob also set their properties on fire. The group were protesting against the death of six hostages. While the bodies of two women and a child, who had been missing since Monday from a camp for the displaced, were recovered from Barak River in Jiribam on Saturday, three other bodies, including a woman and two children, were found on Friday night. Following this, the authorities imposed a curfew for an indefinite period in Imphal East and West, Bishnupur, Thoubal and Kakching districts of Imphal valley. A temporary suspension of internet and mobile data services in place in the affected districts of Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Kangpokpi and Churachandpur for two days with effect from 5.15 pm on Saturday. The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), an apex body representing civil society organisations of Imphal valley, demanded military action on militants within 24 hours. The organisation has also called for the immediate repeal of AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act), which was recently re-imposed in areas under six police stations. Meanwhile, the current situation triggered a political slugfest with Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi expressing deep concern on the "recent string of violence and continuing bloodshed" in Manipur. In a post on X, Rahul Gandhi also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the violence-hit state and work towards restoring peace and healing in the region. "The recent string of violent clashes and continuing bloodshed in Manipur is deeply disturbing. After more than a year of division and suffering, every Indian hoped that the Central and State governments would have made every effort at reconciliation and found a solution," he said. "I urge the PM once again to visit Manipur and work towards restoring peace and healing in the region," Gandhi added. Telecoms equipment vendor Nokia and Madrid-based fibre-optic infrastructure provider Islalink claim to have set a capacity-reach record for unrepeated transmission of 800Gbps over 330km with Nokias PSE-6s photonic service engine on Islalinks IONIAN submarine network connecting Crotone, Italy, with Preveza, Greece. The IONIAN network, launched by Islalink, is a high-capacity submarine system that provides a fibre route between Italy and Greece. IONIAN connects the two countries through the submarine link and two terrestrial rings, yhat connect and give redundancy to the main cities in Italy (Milano and Rome) and in Greece (Athens and Thessaloniki). According to Nokia, 1Tbps has been successfully tested in both terrestrial routes of Greece: the south route (452 km), Preveza-Athens, and the north route (975 km), Preveza-Thessaloniki-Athens. Esther Garces, CEO of Islalink, said the successful trial proves that the IONIAN network, powered by Nokia's PSE-6s, is ready to support the next generation of high-speed digital services. "Our customers, including tech giants, will benefit from unprecedented capacity, reliability, and efficiency, further enhancing Islalinks positioning as a key player in the international fibre market," Garces said. Matthieu Bourguignon, Senior Vice President and Head of Europe for Network Infrastructure business at Nokia, said the capacity-reach record for unrepeated transmission marks a valuable step forward in optical technology. "Nokia's PSE-6s is designed to provide high-speed, power-efficient connectivity over long unrepeated links like the IONIAN submarine cable," said Bourguignon. "Delivering such capabilities enables Islalinks delivery of innovative services that unlock new opportunities for their customers in Italy, Greece and Spain. Union Home Minister Amit Shah reviewed the security situation in Manipur with top officials and directed them to take all possible steps to ensure peace in the state, sources said on Sunday. Shah had earlier cancelled his election rallies in Maharashtra and headed back to Delhi as the situation in the northeastern state continued to be volatile. The fresh wave of violence and protests erupted after the bodies of six people who were allegedly abducted and killed by militants in Jiribam district were discovered. On Saturday night, irate mobs attacked and set on fire the houses of three BJP legislators and a Congress MLA even as security forces thwarted an attempt by the agitators to storm the ancestral residence of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. On 16.11.2024, irate mobs have targeted various houses and properties of public representatives including Ministers and MLAs of the State in Imphal. Police have resorted to firing tear gas shells etc. to disperse the mob. Security forces including Army and Assam Rifles have been Manipur Police (@manipur_police) November 17, 2024 The houses of PWD Minister Govindas Konthoujam at Ningthoukhong, Hiyanglam's BJP MLA Y Radheshyam at Langmeidong Bazar, Wangjing Tentha's BJP MLA Paonam Brojen in Thoubal district and Khundrakpam's Congress MLA Th Lokeshwar in Imphal East district were attacked by the protesters, reports said. Though the agitators moved towards Biren Singhs ancestral house at Luwangshangbam in Imphal East, they were stopped by security forces around 100-200 metres away. Reports quoted officials as saying that the security officials had to fire several rounds of tear gas shells and rubber bullets to disperse the protesters. On Saturday morning, agitators had ransacked the houses of three legislators, including R.K. Imo, son-in-law of the chief minister. Residences of three ministersSapam Ranjan, L. Susindro Singh and Y. Khemchandwere also targeted by the protesting mob. Internet services remained suspended in Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Kangpokpi and Churachandpur even as an uneasy calm prevailed in these districts on Sunday. The bodies of two women and a child, who had been missing since November 11 from a camp for the displaced, were recovered from Barak River in Jiribam on Saturday, while three other bodies, including a woman and two children, were found on Friday night. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has cancelled all his assembly poll campaign programmes in Maharashtra and is heading back to Delhi, reportedly considering the volatile situation in Manipur. The home minister will be holding a review meeting of the security situation in the northeastern states. Manipur saw a fresh bout of violence on Saturday, as an irate mob protesting against the death of six hostages from Jiribam, attacked the residences of three state ministers and six MLAs, including that of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh's son-in-law. The angry mob also set the properties on fire. Shah was supposed to attend a few election rallies as part of the Bharatiya Janata Party's campaign in Maharashtra but he has cancelled them and is returning to the national capital, sources in the know of the development told PTI. According to authorities, mob torched the houses of PWD Minister Govindas Konthoujam at Ningthoukhong, Hiyanglam's BJP MLA Y. Radheshyam at Langmeidong Bazar, Wangjing Tentha's BJP MLA Paonam Brojen in Thoubal district and Khundrakpam's Congress MLA Thokchom Lokeshwar in Imphal East district, PTI reported. The angry mob also attempted to attack the ancestral residence of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh's residence at Manipurs Luwangshangbam. However, personnel from Assam Rifles and Border Security Force deployed here managed to disperse the crowd 200 metres from Singhs house firing tear gas shells and rubber bullets. However, protesters blocked roads leading to Singhs home by setting fire to tyres and placing iron rods across streets to disrupt movement, Hindustan Times reported. Curfew has been imposed and internet services have been suspended in Manipur as protests condemning the killing of six hostages turned violent. According to authorities, a team of central security officers including Anish Dayal Singh, Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force, is expected to visit Manipur soon to assess the situation and assist the state government in tackling the situation. Though there was no official word on the reason behind the cancellation of the minister's rallies, the sources indicated that it could be due to the volatile situation in Manipur. Nigeria will honour Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) award, making him the second foreign dignitary to receive this honour after Queen Elizabeth. The Queen was awarded GCON in 1969. This will be the 17th international award conferred to Modi by a foreign country. Modi arrived in Nigeria on Sunday on the first leg of his three-nation tour. The prime minister was accorded a warm welcome by Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the Minister for Federal Capital Territory in Abuja. Thank you Nigeria for the memorable welcome! pic.twitter.com/2hneeauHD1 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2024 Wike presented Modi the 'Key to the City' of Abuja, which symbolises the the trust and honour bestowed on the prime minister by the people of Nigeria, the External Affairs Ministry said. This is the first visit to the resource-rich African country by an Indian prime minister in 17 years. My visit will be an opportunity to build upon our Strategic Partnership that is based on shared belief in democracy and pluralism. I am also eagerly looking forward to meeting the Indian community and friends from Nigeria who have sent me warm welcome messages in Hindi," Modi had said in a statement on Saturday. Thank you, President Tinubu. Landed a short while ago in Nigeria. Grateful for the warm welcome. May this visit deepen the bilateral friendship between our nations. @officialABAT https://t.co/hlRiwj1XnV pic.twitter.com/iVW1Pr60Zi Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 16, 2024 India and Nigeria have been strategic partners since 2007 with growing economic, energy and defence collaboration. On Sunday Modi will hold a meeting with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the two leaders are expected to discuss further avenues to enhance the bilateral relationship. The Mumbai police arrested a man from Akola in connection with the murder of veteran Maharashtra politician Baba Siddique on Sunday. The accused allegedly provided financial aid for the main shooters who gunned down Siddique. The crime branch of Mumbai police arrested Salmanbhai Iqbalbhai Vohra, a resident of Gujarat from Akola in Maharashtra. Vohra was arrested with the help of local police, a crime branch official said. According to police, Vohra helped the main shooters involved in the murder by opening bank accounts and offered financial aid, police said. "Vohra had opened a bank account in May this year and had provided financial support to Nareshkumar Singh, brother of arrested accused Gurmail Singh, Rupesh Mohol and Harishkumar. He has also helped others connected to the crime," police told PTI. Veteran Maharashtra politician Baba Siddique was gunned down by assailants outside his son Zeeshans office on October 12. The shooters were allegedly linked with Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Among the three shooters who were involved in killing Siddique, Mumbai police managed to arrest two Gurmail Singh from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh resident Dharmaraj Kashyap soon after the incident. The Nationalist Congress Party (AP) leader was allegedly gunned down for his close ties with Bollywood actor Salman Khan. The Mumbai police recently arrested the alleged main shooter Shivkumar Gautam from Uttar Pradesh. Recent probe revealed Gautam managed to change clothes after the incident and he waited amongst the crowd outside Lilavati hospital for 30 minutes to confirm Siddiques death. The Conrad Sangma-led National People's Party (NPP) on Sunday withdrew support to the BJP-led government in Manipur, alleging that the ruling dispensation has failed to resolve the crisis and restore normalcy in the violence-hit state. The northeastern state has been witnessing widespread violence and protests over the past few days after bodies of six people, who were allegedly abducted and killed by militants in Jiribam district, were discovered. In a letter to BJP national president J.P. Nadda, the NPP alleged that the situation in Manipur further had deteriorated and many more innocent lives had been lost. "We strongly feel that the Manipur state government under the leadership of Shri Biren Singh has completely failed to resolve the crisis and restore normalcy, it said. "Keeping the current situation in mind, the National People's Party has decided to withdraw its support to the Biren Singh government in the state of Manipur, with immediate effect," the letter further said. The NPP has seven MLAs in the 60-member assembly. The partys decision to pull out of the ruling coalition is unlikely to pose a threat to the government, as the BJP has a comfortable majority in the house with 37 legislators. The saffron party also has the support of five Naga People's Front (NPF) MLAs, one JD(U) legislator, and three Independent MLAs. The NPPs decision came as the situation in Manipur continues to be volatile, with angry mobs attacking the houses of several legislators and ministers. On 16.11.2024, irate mobs have targeted various houses and properties of public representatives including Ministers and MLAs of the State in Imphal. Police have resorted to firing tear gas shells etc. to disperse the mob. Security forces including Army and Assam Rifles have been Manipur Police (@manipur_police) November 17, 2024 The bodies of two women and a child, who had been missing since November 11 from a camp for the displaced, were recovered from Barak River in Jiribam on Saturday, while three other bodies, including a woman and two children, were found on Friday night. Is something wrong with X in India? Congress Lok Sabha MP Shashi Tharoor claims so. Although he is not sure whether it is deliberate or accidental, Tharoor wonders if he is shadow-banned by the micro-blogging platform as his follower count never truly reaches the numbers it is expected to. The Thiruvananthapuram MP, who has over 8.4 million followers on the platform, said it seems impossible for him to have more than 8.495 million followers ever. Fresh controversy: What did Shashi Tharoor say? The former union minister opened up about his criticism after a user pointed out Shashi Tharoor's number of followers on X (formerly Twitter) is well below the expected lines despite his immense popularity. Retweeting the post, the Congress leader claimed, a lot of people have asked him the question, which remains an unresolved mystery. Even writing a letter to X boss Elon Musk didn't help, Tharoor shared. The MP said he "received a lawyers letter in return flatly denying there was a problem! So much for corporate responsiveness" Good question. This has been the case for four years! A source at the old Twitter India told me there was a problem he couldnt understand: he had reviewed my daily statistics over six months, and found a strange pattern my followers went up by over 1000 a day, about 60 - 70 https://t.co/IpfTJpMvwt Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) November 17, 2024 Shashi Tharoor said he finally decided to address the issue in detail in the hope of getting a much-delayed response from X. "There is clearly something wrong that the people in charge of @XCorpIndia don't care about. But more and more people have been noticing and asking me, so I have finally decided to go public about it," Mr Tharoor said. Full transcript of Shashi Tharoor's X post Good question. This has been the case for four years! A source at the old Twitter India told me there was a problem he couldnt understand: he had reviewed my daily statistics over six months, and found a strange pattern my followers went up by over 1000 a day, about 60 - 70 unfollowed me each day, but my overall followers total wouldnt budge above 8.495 million. He thought it was an algorithm glitch. Since my account is never suggested for anyone to follow, and many of my followers complain about not receiving most of my posts on their timeline, I wondered if i had been shadow-banned. (My source has since left @X), After three years plus of noticing this and no change under @X, I wrote to @elonmusk to inquire about this and received a lawyers letter in return flatly denying there was a problem! So much for corporate responsiveness. The only practical consequence of my inquiry is that my followers count now drops unsteadily each day from the peak of 8.495m to 8.429m today. There is clearly something wrong that the people in charge of @XCorpIndia dont care about. But more and more people have been noticing and asking me, so i have finally decided to go public about it. Given all the more important issues in our public life, it seems too petty to mention. But whether it is deliberate or accidental, i hope those asking understand that there is a problem. Perhaps laying it out here might get the attention of someone responsible at @XCorpIndia but I am not holding my breath! A clash broke out in Murshidabad district between two groups of people over an alleged objectionable message on a digital display board at Beldanga. Fifteen people allegedly involved in the clash were arrested. Amid tensions in the region, prohibitory orders were issued in the area and internet services were suspended. According to police officials, the clash occurred after the message on the display board on a gate set up near a Kartik Puja pandal came to the notice of the members of one of the groups. Yet another Hindu festival marred by violence in Mamata Banerjees West Bengal. In Murshidabads Beldanga, Hindu homes are attacked on Kartik Puja, while her police remain spineless spectators. How long will Hindus suffer under her appeasement politics? This lawlessness must pic.twitter.com/ioOSKxmb6y BJP West Bengal (@BJP4Bengal) November 17, 2024 No major injuries were reported in the clash. BJP accused the Mamata Banerjee administration of inaction and claimed the miscreants "belonged to a certain group". The trouble began on Saturday night when a set of youths gathered near the Kartik Puja pandal alleged that an objectionable message hurting their religious sentiments was displayed on the digital board at the gate. Beldanga in West Bengals Murshidabad continues to simmer as Muslim rioters hold the town to ransom. Last evening, the rampaging mobs targeted Hindu deities, pelted stones on Kartik Puja pandals and brutalised West Bengal police. All because Mamata Banerjee wont stop appeasing pic.twitter.com/Fri0isbNU2 Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) November 17, 2024 A clash erupted when both sides started throwing stones at each other. Crude bombs were used and several shops, and houses were vandalised in the clash. A police vehicle also came under attack prompting the personnel to lathi-charge the mobs. Shops did not open while the police and Rapid Action Force personnel patrolled different pockets. Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) have been issued in Beldanga, Kazisaha and Begurban areas. "The state administration has failed to protect people as miscreants..... have let loose a reign of anarchy in the entire area. Is this part of a deeper plan to turn West Bengal into Bangladesh?" BJP state president and Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar said. Meanwhile, TMC officials said that the situation is under control and the administration is closely monitoring the developments. Months after drugs worth thousands of crores were seized off Gujarat Coast, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) of India has launched an operation targetting the drug cartel run by Pakistan-based Haji Salim aka Haji Baloch. Haji Salim, also known as 'Lord of Drugs', came under NCB's radar after it decided to launch 'Operation Sagar Manthan' to dismantle the cartel with tentacles all over the world. The recent seizure of 4,000 kg of illicit drugs off the Gujarat coast was part of the operation. Several Pakistani and Iranian nationals were arrested in this connection. Who is Haji Salim? Haji Salim's name first came to light in 2015, when his consignment worth crores was caught in the sea near Kerala. The drug boss is reportedly based in Balochistan province and has been running a drug syndicate that spans from Pakistan, India, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives to the US. Such is the vastness of his empire that law enforcement agencies in the United States, New Zealand, and Afghanistan are on the lookout for him, according to Narcotics Control Bureau Deputy Director General Gyaneshwar Singh. One of the biggest traffickers in the world, Salim supplies large shipments of heroin, methamphetamine, and other illegal narcotics to Asia, Africa, and the West. "The scale of his trafficking syndicate is unparalleled," Singh said. The investigation agencies have little information on him and the details available so far are limited to an old photograph and some personal details. However, reports hint that Haji Salim has close links to Dawood Ibrahim, the infamous underworld gangster wanted by India. Salim is said to be Dawood Ibrahim's neighbour and was once captured on camera entering the latter's residence. Though the NCB has managed to make multiple seizures and arrests, Haji Salim's empire continues to thrive, which earned him the nickname "Raktbeej" in the global drug trade. Officials said his modus operandi is to smuggle the narcotics through sea and his shipments bear markings such as 777, 555, 999, flying horses, and scorpions as identification marks. His consignment often originates in Iran and passes through Afghanistan and Malaysia, before reaching Sri Lanka. These are then moved to smaller vessels and moved to the Indian coastline mostly at night, landing at obscure ports and beach locations. Salim is also said to be recruiting unemployed youth from Balochistan for his trade and is also said to have close links with ISI. Hours after a pair of flares were fired at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Caesarea residence, three people were arrested on Sunday morning. The suspects are yet to be identified and no group has claimed responsibility for the act. ALSO READ: Is Hezbollah behind drone attack targeting Benjamin Netanyahu? Strike launched towards Israel PM's house There was no damage to structures or injuries during the incident. Netanyahu and his family were also not home when it happened. The Shin Bet agency and the police said an investigation has been launched and it is "a dangerous escalation." Israeli President Isaac Herzog condemned the act, saying he has expressed urgent need to probe and deal with those responsible. Taking to X, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the incident crossed "all red lines". "It is not possible for the Prime Minister of Israel, who is threatened by Iran and its proxies who are trying to assassinate him, to be subject to the same threats from home," he posted. This comes less than a month after Netanyahu's Caesarea residence was targeted in a drone attack by Hezbollah. The Israeli PM and his wife were not home. In September, Netanyahu's plane was targeted by a ballistic missile while landing at Ben Gurion Airport. The missile was intercepted. This comes as Israeli ground troops advanced to the deepest point in Lebanon since the conflict with the northern country broke out six weeks ago. Over 3,400 people have been killed in Lebanon, according to the country's health ministry. The family photo of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in Peru has triggered a controversy in the US with many feeling President Joe Biden was "humiliated" by being made to stand in the back corner. On the other hand, Chinese President Xi Jinping got an "honourable position" on the front centre along with the host country Peru's President Dina Boluarte. The video of the group photo shows Biden arriving last for the family photo before taking his position between back-row leaders of Thailand and Vietnam. The rest of the leaders prepared to pose onstage before looking around to find Biden missing. He later walked in to stand between Thailands 38-year-old Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Vietnam President Luong Cuong. Biden was also seen reaching for Shinawatras hand to steady himself. Biden was humiliated by being placed in the farthest (and dustiest) corner of a group photo of APEC summit participants in Lima, Peru. pic.twitter.com/PNX8043BSE S p r i n t e r (@SprinterFamily) November 16, 2024 Though the order of leaders posing is often arranged in an alphabetic order, it is rarely followed. When Trump posed for the APEC photo in 2017 in Vietnam, he took a centre spot in both photos, once in the front row and once in the back. However, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau got a position in the front row with Xi Jinping along with Australias Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. All leaders were seen clad in brown traditional scarves, a part of the summits ritual. The image has triggered Republicans who claim the "photo is a metaphor for his presidency" and that the world leaders don't anymore take him seriously. Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY) told The New York Post that the APEC should have invited President-elect Donald Trump. "Im sure he wouldve been in the centre of the photo with Xi Jinping," she added. Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-New Jersey) called Biden a lame duck and said that the photo is a metaphor for his presidency. "A picture is worth a thousand words and this picture says it all," he said. However, the White House has defended Biden's position, stating that he has not been snubbed and that the President took the position assigned to him. "It is the same assigned order APEC used in both 2008 and 2016, White House National Security Council spokesperson Sean Savett told The Post. She added that former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama too posed similarly in earlier APEC meetings. The APEC summit also saw Xi receiving a warm welcome in Peru, partly due to China's recent funding for a large new port on Peru's coast. Before leaving for Peru, Biden met with Xi at the Chinese leaders hotel for the final time of his presidency. After the meeting in Lima, Xi said he would work with Trump to maintain communication and that the goal of a stable relationship with the US would continue. "China is ready to work with the new US administration to maintain communication, expand cooperation and manage differences," Xi said. Biden said strategic competition between the two global powers should not escalate into war. "Our two countries cannot let any of this competition veer into conflict. That is our responsibility and over the last four years I think we've proven it's possible to have this relationship," he said. Bangladesh's Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus on Sunday said that the interim government will seek the extradition of former PM Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in India after the fall of her government in August. While addressing the nation on the occasion of the completion of 100 days of the interim government, Yunus said his government has been continuing its all-out efforts to ensure the security of all citizens. Also Read | Bangladesh president says no documentary evidence of Sheikh Hasinas resignation "We must ensure justice in every killing...We will also ask India to send back fallen autocrat Sheikh Hasina," Yunus was quoted by the state-run BSS news agency. Earlier, Yunus had, reportedly, said that Bangladesh won't be seeking Hasina's extradition from India immediately. Also Read | Bangladesh interim govt amends law scrapping special security for Sheikh Hasina, family Yunus, who assumed office on August 8, claimed that about 1500 people, including students and workers, were killed while 19,931 others were wounded during the protest against the Hasina government. Hasina, 77 resigned and fled to India after massive protests erupted in the country against her government over the controversial job quota system. ALSO READ | Ex-Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina speaks out, demands punishment for killings She landed at the Hindon airbase near Delhi on August 5. Hasina, along with her party leaders faces severe accusations of ordering brutal suppression of the Anti-Discrimination Students Movement. ALSO READ | How New Delhi is preparing for Sheikh Hasinas likely extended stay in India After Hasina's exit, clashes continued in different parts of the country targeting religious minorities. "We have tried our best so that any citizen of the country, not only Hindu community members, doesn't become a victim of violence," said Yunus. He also added that unnecessary fear is spread among religious minorities. Yunus also pointed out that, after two months of assumption of office by his government, Durga Puja was celebrated in around 32,000 puja mandaps across the country. Yunus also said that the Election Commission (EC) will be formed soon while an election roadmap will be announced after competing reforms in the electoral system. "Once the electoral reforms are decided, you will get the election roadmap very soon," he said. A 21-year-old Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reserve soldier on Saturday was confirmed to be the latest casualty of the country's war in Gaza. Sgt. First Class (res.) Idan Keinan of the Kfir Brigades Nahshon Battalion was identified as the 376th Israeli soldier killed ever since the ground offensive against Hamas began after the October 7 attacks. The IDF was quoted as saying by Israeli media that Sgt. First Class Idan Keinan was hit by sniper fire while in the line of duty in northern Gazas Beit Lahiya. The soldier will be buried in the Kiryat Shaul cemetery in northern Tel Aviv, reports added. ALSO READ | What are the key terms in US proposal sent to Beirut for ending Israel-Hezbollah war? Keinan hailed from Ramat Gan, a city in the Tel Aviv district. The soldier's death was confirmed by the IDF not long after Hamas confirmed Israeli Air Force had claimed several lives. Meanwhile, Sgt. Keinan's family shared with the country what the young soldier had told his grandmother in a letter a couple of months back. If the Father in Heaven decides that someone needs to die for our people, it is the greatest merit in the world, the soldier wrote. I know what the dangers are and what could happen and I am at peace with that, and more than that, this is the path that I chose and this is the path that I believe every man in the country should choose, the late soldier had written. WATCH | Amsterdam violence: Pro-Palestine protesters clash with police, set tram ablaze Lamenting the loss of her brother who died as a hero, Keinan's sister jotted on social media, How did they take you from us? I will never manage to get over a loss such as you. Israel-Hamas war in Gaza Meanwhile, Israeli strikes killed six people in Nuseirat and another four in Bureij, two built-up refugee camps in central Gaza dating back to the 1948 war surrounding Israel's creation. Another two people were killed in a strike on Gaza's main north-south highway, according to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in the central city of Deir al-Balah, which received all 12 bodies. The Health Ministry in Gaza says around 43,800 Palestinians have been killed in the war. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but has said women and children make up more than half the fatalities. Around 90 percent of Gaza's population of 2.3 million Palestinians have been displaced, and large areas of the territory have been flattened by Israeli bombardment and ground operations. The war between Israel and Hamas began after Palestinian militants stormed into Israel on October 7, 2023, killing about 1,200 people mostly civilians and abducting 250 others. Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, about a third of them believed to be dead. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday held extensive talks with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu focusing on boosting the India-Nigeria partnership in a range of areas, including trade, investment and digital public infrastructure. India accords "high priority" to its strategic partnership with Nigeria, said Modi. ALSO READ | Modi becomes second foreign leader after Queen Elizabeth to receive Nigerias GCON award Delighted to connect with the Indian diaspora in Nigeria. Grateful for the affection. https://t.co/lUnmi8vhxq Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2024 During the opening remarks of the bilateral meeting with Tinubu, PM Modi said, "I am confident that a new chapter in our ties will begin following our talks." PM Modi announced that India is sending around 20 tonnes of relief supplies for Nigerian people hit by the recent floods. Honoured to be conferred with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger Award by Nigeria. I accept it with great humility and dedicate it to the people of India. https://t.co/AyQ6v4EotH Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2024 Modi thanked Tinubu for ensuring the welfare of the around 60,000-strong Indian expatriate community in Nigeria. He also identified terrorism, separatism, piracy and drug trafficking as major challenges and said the two countries will continue to work together to deal with them. He also referred to the African Union becoming a permanent member of the G20 at the India-hosted summit of the grouping last year and described it as a significant outcome. Modi arrived in Abuja early Sunday on the first trip to the country. The India-Nigeria ties were elevated to the status of a "strategic partnership' during then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's visit to the African nation in October 2007. This is Modi's first-ever visit to the West African Region. He is on a five-day visit to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana. After Nigeria, Modi will travel to Brazil, where he will attend the 19th G20 Summit as a Troika member. Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden will be among the leaders to attend the summit in Rio de Janeiro on November 18-19. Along with Brazil and South Africa, India is part of the G20 Troika. In the final leg of his trip, Modi will Guyana from November 19 to 21 at the invitation of President Mohamed Irfaan Ali. PM Modi will be the first Indian PM to visit Guyana in more than 50 years. Iran has secretly elected its next Supreme Leader as the current ayatollah, 85-year-old Ali Khamenei, is battling a serious illness, according to a report. Tehran has elected Khamenei's second son Mojtaba Khamenei as the next head of the country, Israeli media Ynet News quoted Iran International, a Persian media outlet with ties to Iranian regime opponents. The report added that Khamenei may abdicate soon as he is battling a serious health condition. Iran International is out with a report which claims that Iran's regime's Assembly of Experts has secretly chosen Mojtaba Khamenei as his father's successor as supreme leader. It allegedly happened at an "exceptionally unusual meeting" on September 26. Hard to verify, but I pic.twitter.com/km9Jrng2OI Nikki (@Nikki87679054) November 17, 2024 The selection was held on September 26 after the 60 members of Iran's Assembly of Experts convened on Khamenei's demand. This very unusual and secretive meeting was called without prior notice and the aim was to decide on the Supreme Leader's successor. The meeting deliberated and finally decided to unanimously select Mojtaba as the successor. Ynet added that the decision was reached at the insistence of Khamenei and his representatives, which also included threats. The members were also told to keep the meeting very secret, fearing public protests. Any leaks would be met with consequences, the members were told. The report quoted sources who said Khamenei plans to hand over the reins to Mojtaba during his lifetime to ensure a smooth transition. This is also to preempt any opposition that could arise after his passing. The selection of Mojtaba does not come as a surprise as he was being groomed for leadership for some time, following which he was actively playing a prominent role in government circles. Electing the successor became a priority after the conflict with Israel and the revelation that Israeli spies had infiltrated the Islamic Republics strict intelligence and security infrastructure. The assassination of Hezbollah chief Nasrallah and Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran has prompted Khamenei to isolate himself for protection with only a handful of loyalists given access to him. His son Mojtaba is reportedly the only individual he can trust and influence as a future leader, according to the Atlantic Council. Though he has rarely spoken publicly, Mojtaba is a familiar name in Iran as he is said to be one of the brains behind the violent crackdown on 2009 protests after the elections that saw Mahmoud Ahmadinejad come to power for the second term. It was in this September that Mojtaba spoke for the first time to the world via a video message wherein he declared that he was discontinuing his virtual seminary classes for disciples abroad. He was given the title of ayatollah two years back, thereby giving him the most important constitutional prerequisite for the Supreme Leader role. During his election campaign, president-elect Donald Trump said his Day 1 priority would be to launch the "largest mass deportation" in the US history. But how does the unpredictable Republican plan to achieve his goal. A lawyer who is privy to Trump's Mar-a-Lago talks told Daily Mail's Caroline Graham that the president-elect is gearing up for "shock and awe" moves. On Day 1 itself, Trump is set to ink executive orders, including the temporary closure of the southern border, so that officials can clear pending cases. During his first term, Trump built around 700 miles of the controversial wall on the Mexican border while remaining 1300-mile section was halted by Joe Biden. Around $8 billion is required to complete the work and Trump has vowed to get it done, inviting sponsors for the construction. ALSO READ: Trump has Washington in the palm of his hand as GOP wins House control after reclaiming Senate According to Trump, there are 20 million immigrants who are staying in the US illegally. Of these, 10 million people were allowed entry by the outgoing Joe Biden administration. Explaining Trump's plan, Graham said there are three steps. Step 1 is to crack down on undocumented individuals involved with criminal gangs. Dubbed 'Operation Aurora', Trump would invoke the Alien Enemies Act, 1798, which allows him to detain and deport non-citizens from "hostile nations" during wartime. ALSO READ: Trump hints at 2028 presidential run. But can he amend the US Constitution? This is expected to affect seven lakh Venuzuelans, Haitians, Cubans and Nicaraguans in the US. If these countries refuse to take them back, Trump will implement travel ban and block aids. Step 2 will crack down on move 1 million people who are on deportation list after their applications were denied. And Step 3 will be to target the remaining illegal immigrants by raiding work places. However, the first two steps are expected to be costly, estimated at around $300 billion. Besides, around $1 trillion might have to be spent to expel these immigrants. There are fears that Trump's move could harm the US economy. In his home state of Florida, where Ron DeSantis is the governor, strict action were taken against illegal immigrants 18 months ago. However, now farmers in the state are struggling to find cheap labour. President-elect Donald Trump has named Chris Wright as the new energy secretary. CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy, Wright is a campaign donor and fossil fuel executive. Wright is known to be an advocate of oil and gas development and is considered the key person in achieving US's 'energy dominance' in the global market. Also read | Matt Gaetz, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Tulsi Gabbard... : Understanding Trump's logic behind cabinet picks Being a fossil fuel executive, Wright is likely to raise voice against efforts to fight climate change and would also end a year-long pause on natural gas export approvals by the Biden administration. I am honored and grateful for the opportunity from @realDonaldTrump to serve our country as U.S. Secretary of Energy. My dedication to bettering human lives remains steadfast, with a focus on making American energy more affordable, reliable, and secure. Energy is the lifeblood pic.twitter.com/IfjMQw9xKi Chris Wright (@ChrisAWright_) November 16, 2024 Though Wright has not served in government, he has written that more fossil fuel production is needed around the globe to lift people out of poverty. Wright has called climate activists as alarmists. "There is no climate crisis, and we're not in the midst of an energy transition either," Wright had said. Wright's appointment was backed by many influential conservatives, including oil tycoon Harold Hamm. Hamm, executive chairman of Oklahoma-based Continental Resources, played a key role in energy issues in Trump's first term. BREAKING: President-elect Donald J. Trump names Liberty Energy CEO Chris Wright as Secretary of Energy. Nothing triggers the climate cult faster than a man who speaks the truth about fossil fuels (watch both clips). Wright, a vocal critic of climate alarmism, is poised to steer pic.twitter.com/ioZeByUgWs Hank (@HANKonX) November 16, 2024 At an event organised at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in April, Trump, reportedly, sought the industry leaders and lobbyists to donate $1 billion to Trump's campaign, with the expectation that he would curtail environmental regulation if reelected. According to Mike Sommers, president of the American Petroleum Institute, Wright's experience in the energy sector "gives him an important perspective that will inform his leadership" of the Energy Department. The Energy Department is for advancing energy, environmental and nuclear security of the US. The agency is in charge of maintaining the country's nuclear weapons, oversees 17 national research laboratories and approves natural gas exports, as well as ensuring environmental cleanup of the nation's nuclear weapons complex. If confirmed by the Senate, Wright will be a member of a new National Energy Council that North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum will chair. Wright will be replacing Jennifer Granholm, a supporter of EVs and emerging energy sources like geothermal power, solar and nuclear energy. Washington, DC & Minneapolis Donald Trumps resounding success in the US elections has reinforced the political and journalistic elites deficient understanding of public attitudes in the post-pandemic world order. On top was the end of the fixation to involve America in global disputes to preserve and perpetuate its hegemony. For the less well-heeled Americans, this was unnecessary spending, compounding their immediate economic challenges. The emergence of a consensus for an inward-looking political philosophy among a cross-section of voters lent Trump a trope to present himself as the 'peace candidate' and gain wider currency for his "America first, Americans first" message. This destroyed the social coalition the Democrats painstakingly assembled in the 2020 elections. According to a New York Times analysis, counties that were strongholds of the Democrats in 2020 witnessed a drop of 1.9 million votes for Kamala Harris. This shifting allegiance helped Trump win over 75 million votes against Harris 71.8 millionthis is the second time any Republican candidate has won the popular vote since 1988and clinch 312 of 538 votes in the electoral college. The developments do not mean merely a loss of power for the Democrats, but have left them with a resourceful yet ineffective organisation, which despite massive capital, a favourable media discourse, celebrity endorsements and a proclaimed loftiness of moralistic standards was spurned by a diverse array of regions and demographic groups. Party insiders said their initial assessment was that a "too moralistic" war bugle, which over-emphasised the need to repudiate Trump's politics in order to save the US democracy and its pluralistic traditions, came across as either vague or preachy or even hopelessly removed for several sections of the electorate who were beset by soaring food prices. They found Trumps depiction of illegal immigrants as a source of their economic woes plausible. David Schultz, a prominent author and professor of political science at Hamline University, Minnesota, summed up the Democrats staggering election loss as a fallout of their taking the working class and people of colour for granted and focusing on identity politics and on the interests of those who are more affluent. He said the problem for Democrats was not so much the loss, but the shift of many constituencies away from the party. "The US is more conservative than the extreme of the Democratic Party and the message should be that class and economics is more important to most than is identity. This election revealed that the political left-right continuum as defined by American politics for the last few years has shifted." Barbara Cox, a policy analyst based in Minneapolis, said "the Democrats will have to do a lot of listening to the working class voters and policies". Trumps "efficient businessman" image played a role in consolidating the working class for him. He made improvements not just in the rural hinterland; his urban swings were evident across the political map, including in New York City where he gained significant ground. The decline in public interest in voting for the Democrats in key cities, such as Detroit and Philadelphia, precluded Harris from winning the battleground states of Michigan and Pennsylvania. Among the people of colour, Trumps gains were monumental. According to an exit poll conducted by Edison Research, whereas Trump polled 32 per cent Hispanic votes to Biden's 65 per cent in 2020, his share in 2024 climbed to 46 per cent against Harris 52 per cent. Among Hispanic men, Trump registered a vote share of 55 per cent, which validates concerns regarding a cross section of voters incompatibility with a woman head of state. Harriss October surprise included a backlash from Arab Americans who were concerned about the human rights situation in Gaza. In Michigan's Arab American majority city of Dearborn, Trump beat Harris 42.5 per cent to 36 per cent. A staggering 18 per cent voted for Green Party candidate Jill Stein. Trumps support among Afro-Americans went up from 8 in 10 voters in 2020 to 9 in 10 voters. Every three of 10 black men under the age of 45 voted for him, which is roughly double the numbers he got in 2020. ESPN anchor Stephen Smith argued that Michelle Obamas speech in Kalamazoo in Michigan, where she warned African Americans that supporting Trump would mean voting "against us", backfired as the intended audience "felt pressured and misrepresented". There was also a widespread feeling that the Democratic Party had become an echo-chamber of the elites and the left liberals. Trump seized on this vexation, and accused Harris of trying to restructure the American polity on socialist lines. Harris entry into the race as a handpicked candidate of the Democratic National Committee cemented the notion of her being a creation of the establishment. Though Harris raised a whopping $1 billion in the early days of her campaign and gained endorsements from celebrities, the average voter saw this as the elites attempt to dictate Americas political and democratic processes. Two assassination attempts on Trump added allure to his story of a persecuted political protagonist trying to repair the system. Yet, there is no dearth of crestfallen voters who are fretting that the return of Trump will exacerbate social divisions. "The inherent white nationalism in Trumps politics is hard to miss. While many people voted for him as they were enraged by an ailing economy, another Trump presidency will erode our social fabric," said Tahiru Titus Jafaru, an African-American who retired as civil engineer. The fear that American democracy might soon reach a dangerous inflection point is shared by many white Americans as well. Kirk Dornfeld, a retired medical practitioner, said Trump could push the American society irreversibly to the right, while hollowing out institutions. "I expect Trump will pardon all the people jailed in connection with the insurrection on January 6, 2021, said Dornfeld. He will ban abortion and abortion drugs nationwide. He will appoint young, conservative judges to replace the older conservative judges in the Supreme Court, and he will try to control the military." New Delhi, Nov 17 (PTI) India will not be able to reap greater benefits from the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement due to widening trade deficits with member countries and China's opaque trade practices, think tank GTRI said in its report. In 2019, India decided not to join the RCEP bloc due to concerns about trade imbalances and its impact on the domestic industries. The RCEP pact, a kind of comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA), was negotiated among the 10 ASEAN member states -- Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam -- and their six free trade partners -- China, India, South Korea, Japan, New Zealand, and Australia). The countries account for about 30 per cent of the global gross domestic product (GDP) and trade and nearly half of the world's population. "Any benefits from RCEP would likely be minimal and incremental, especially considering China's opaque trade practices. India cannot have a bilateral FTA with China due to its large trade deficit. However, joining RCEP would be even more problematic," according to the report prepared by GTRI Founder Ajay Srivastava and trade expert Abhijit Das. It added that in a bilateral free trade pact with China, India could delay tariff reductions, but under RCEP, Chinese goods can enter India easily through other RCEP countries with minimal processing right from the day one of the implementation. The remarks in the report assume significance as Niti Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam has earlier this month stated that India should be a part of the RCEP and Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. On the argument that RCEP can grant India access to a massive trade area, the report said India already has FTAs with 13 of the 15 RCEP countries, excluding only New Zealand and China. RCEP would likely add little new export opportunity for India as its exports to China are not growing since the last five years, it said. "Another argument suggests RCEP membership would help India integrate into regional value chains (GVCs). But despite having zero-tariff trade of most industrial goods with ASEAN, Japan, and South Korea for over a decade, India has not become a significant GVC player," it said. Time-taking port-customs clearance and low ease-of-doing-business are key barriers. It also said the possibility of expanding markets for Indian MSMEs is also frequently cited, but in reality the domestic MSMEs struggle to compete with large-scale Chinese manufacturers. "Introducing tariff-free Chinese goods into India could overwhelm MSMEs, as their smaller-scale operations are unlikely to withstand competition from China's mass manufacturing," it said, adding that RCEP membership is seen by a few economists as a pathway to attract more Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to India, but the link between FTAs and FDI growth is mixed. The challenges RCEP poses for India's domestic industries, particularly MSMEs and agriculture, suggest a cautious approach, it added. Another significant concern is India's rising trade deficits with ASEAN, South Korea, and Japan, that is yet another reason for staying out of RCEP. Post-FTAs, the report said, India's trade deficits with ASEAN, South Korea, and Japan increased more than its global trade deficit. From 2007-09 to 2020-22, the trade deficit grew 302.9 per cent with ASEAN, 164.1 per cent with South Korea, and 138.2 per cent with Japan, compared to an 81.2 per cent increase globally, the GTRI said. "This trend continued in 2023. Without any major tariff concessions to China, India's deficit with China exceeded USD 85 billion in FY24. If India had joined RCEP, the deficit would have been much worse due to zero tariff imports," it added. Lucknow, Nov 17 (PTI) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday instructed the state government officials to ensure adequate supply of fertilizer to farmers. The chief minister held a meeting to discuss the issue of availability of fetilizers. The meeting was attended by the state chief secretary, principal secretary of the agriculture department, principal Secretary of the cooperative department, and other senior officials, according to a statement issued here. The chief minister directed the officials to deliver fertilizers procured from private players to the farmers through cooperative societies and other government channels. He emphasized the importance of providing fertilizer at reasonable prices to prevent any disruption in the crop production process. The chief minister further urged officials to establish effective coordination with the central government to ensure timely supply of fertilizer in the state. He also asked officials to ensure that farmers are provided with essential amenities at fertilizer distribution sites. He emphasized the need for proper arrangements, including orderly queues, access to drinking water, shaded areas, and seating facilities, to make the distribution process smooth and farmer-friendly. Besides, the chief minister has called for setting up of a dedicated monitoring mechanism to oversee the fertilizer distribution process. According to the statement, he asked the concerned officials to form district-level teams to track the distribution, ensure transparency, and submit regular reports. This is expected to prevent black marketing and hoarding of fertilizers, the statement said, adding that the chief minister also issued a stern warning of taking strict action against the offenders. Lahore, Nov 17 (PTI) In a shocking incident, a pregnant woman was killed allegedly by her mother-in-law who along with her three accomplices chopped her body in dozens of pieces before dumping it in a drain in the Punjab province of Pakistan, police said on Sunday. The incident took place last week in Daska, Sialkot district, some 100 km from Lahore. Police arrested four suspects including the mother-in-law Sughran Bibi, her daughter Yasmin, her grandson Hamza and distant relative Navid. Zara Qadir, who was in her 20s, went missing last week. Later police found the chopped body of a woman in three sacks which was identified as Zara. Zara, the daughter of a police officer, married Qadir Ahmad four years ago and the couple had a three-year-old son. Zara after marriage had gone to Saudi Arabia to her husband who works there. A few months ago, she had returned to Pakistan. Senior police officer Omar Farooq told reporters on Sunday that the suspects confessed to having killed and dismembered the body of Zara. "In her confessional statement, Sughran Bibi said that she suspected Zara of allegedly practising 'witchcraft'. Besides, her son Qadir had started sending money directly to Zara in her bank instead to his mother." "The four suspects smothered Zara with a pillow while she was asleep. After that they burnt her face and chopped off her body into dozens of pieces before dumping it in a drain in three sacks," the police officer said and added Zara was also pregnant. "On Zara's father's statement that he suspected Sughran for claiming that she had run away with her lover upon her disappearance, we interrogated her (Sughran) who confessed to her crime," Farooq said. He said Sughran was also the sister of Zara's father. "This is a case of extreme jealousy as the mother-in-law and her daughter not only killed Zara but in cold blood dismembered her body into pieces in hatred," he said and Sughran and Yasmin were of the view that because of Zara's good looks Qadir was playing into her hands and ignoring them. A murder case has been registered against the suspects. New York, Nov 17 (AP) Health officials said Saturday they have confirmed the first US case of a new form of mpox that was first seen in eastern Congo. The person had travelled to eastern Africa and was treated in Northern California upon return, according to the California Department of Public Health. Symptoms are improving and the risk to the public is low. The individual was isolating at home and health workers are reaching out to close contacts as a precaution, the state health department said. Mpox is a rare disease caused by infection with a virus that's in the same family as the one that causes smallpox. It is endemic in parts of Africa, where people have been infected through bites from rodents or small animals. Milder symptoms can include fever, chills and body aches. In more serious cases, people can develop lesions on the face, hands, chest and genitals. Earlier this year, scientists reported the emergence of a new form of mpox in Africa that was spread through close contact including through sex. It was widely transmitted in eastern and central Africa. But in cases that were identified in travelers outside of the continent, spread has been very limited, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. More than 3,100 confirmed cases have been reported just since late September, according to the World Health Organization. The vast majority of them have been in three African countries Burundi, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Since then, cases of travelers with the new mpox form have been reported in Germany, India, Kenya, Sweden, Thailand, Zimbabwe, and the United Kingdom. Health officials earlier this month said the situation in Congo appears to be stabilizing. The Africa CDC has estimated Congo needs at least 3 million mpox vaccines to stop the spread, and another 7 million vaccines for the rest of Africa. The spread is mostly through sexual transmission as well as through close contact among children, pregnant women and other vulnerable groups. The current outbreak is different from the 2022 global outbreak of mpox where gay and bisexual men made up the vast majority of cases. (AP) NSA NSA Washington, Nov 17 (AP) President-elect Donald Trump has selected Chris Wright, a campaign donor and fossil fuel executive, to serve as energy secretary in his upcoming, second administration. CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy, Wright is a vocal advocate of oil and gas development, including fracking, a key pillar of Trump's quest to achieve US "energy dominance" in the global market. Wright has been one of the industry's loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change and could give fossil fuels a boost, including quick action to end a year-long pause on natural gas export approvals by the Biden administration. Wright also has criticised what he calls a "top-down" approach to climate by liberal and left-wing groups and said the climate movement around the world is "collapsing under its own weight". Wright, who has never served in government, has written that more fossil fuel production is needed around the globe to lift people out of poverty. Consideration of Wright to head the administration's energy department won support from influential conservatives, including oil and gas tycoon Harold Hamm. Hamm, executive chairman of Oklahoma-based Continental Resources, a major shale oil company, is a longtime Trump supporter and advisor who played a key role on energy issues in Trump's first term. Hamm helped organise an event at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in April where Trump reportedly asked industry leaders and lobbyists to donate USD 1 billion to Trump's campaign, with the expectation that Trump would curtail environmental regulations if reelected. Mike Sommers, president of the American Petroleum Institute, the oil and gas industry's top lobbying group, said Wright's experience in the energy sector "gives him an important perspective that will inform his leadership" of the Energy Department. "We look forward to working with him once confirmed to bolster American geopolitical strength by lifting DOE's pause on LNG export permits and ensuring the open access of American energy for our allies around the world," Sommers said. Jackie Wong, senior vice president for climate and energy at the Natural Resources Defense Council, an environmental group, called Wright "a champion of dirty fossil fuels" and said his nomination to lead the Energy Department was "a disastrous mistake". "The Energy Department should be doing all it can to develop and expand the energy sources of the 21st century, not trying to promote the dirty fuels of the last century," Wong said. "Given the devastating impacts of climate-fueled disasters, DOE's core mission of researching and promoting cleaner energy solutions is more important now than ever." The Energy Department is responsible for advancing energy, environmental and nuclear security of the US. The agency is in charge of maintaining the country's nuclear weapons, oversees 17 national research laboratories and approves natural gas exports, as well as ensuring environmental cleanup of the nation's nuclear weapons complex. It also promotes scientific and technological research. Republican Senator John Barrasso of Wyoming, who is expected to become chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, said Trump promised bold choices for his Cabinet, and Wright's nomination delivers. "He's s an energy innovator who laid the foundation for America's fracking boom. After four years of America last energy policy, our country is desperate for a secretary who understands how important American energy is to our economy and our national security?" Barrasso said. If confirmed, Wright will join North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, Trump's choice to be interior secretary, as a key player on energy policy in a second Trump term. Wright will be a member of a new National Energy Council that Burgum will chair. The new panel will seek to establish US "energy dominance" around the world, Trump said. Thomas Pyle, president of the American Energy Alliance, a conservative group that supports fossil fuels, said Wright would be "an excellent choice" for energy secretary. Pyle led Trump's Energy Department's transition team in 2016. Liberty is a major energy industry service provider, with a focus on technology. Wright, who grew up in Colorado, earned undergraduate degree at MIT and did graduate work in electrical engineering at the University of California-Berkeley and MIT. In 1992, he founded Pinnacle Technologies, which helped launch commercial shale gas production through hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. He later served as chairman of Stroud Energy, an early shale gas producer, before founding Liberty Resources in 2010. (AP) SZM Islamabad, Nov 17 (PTI) Pakistans leading constitutional religious body came under severe criticism after it issued an edict terming the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to access blocked content on the internet as 'un-Islamic'. The unprecedented proclamation by the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII), which advises parliament on aligning legislation with Islamic teachings, enraged digital rights activists as well as some religious scholars. According to the Dawn newspaper, the CII chief Raghib Naeemi said that using VPNs to access immoral or illegal content was against Sharia. In a social media statement on Saturday, Maulana Tariq Jameel, a prominent religious scholar, said if watching adult content or blasphemous material was an issue then mobile phones should be declared un-Islamic before labelling VPNs as such. Senator Allama Nasir Abbas, the chief of Shia organisation Majlis Wahdat Muslimeen (MWM), said the country was being ruled by an incompetent and corrupt elite who were not even the true representatives of the people. They make laws in such a way and are using decrees as per their whims, Senator Abbas added. Wahaj Siraj, the CEO of telecom company Nayatel, said technology has always been neutral and only its use or misuse made it Halal or Haram. The issue of VPNs came to light after the Interior Ministry asked the Pakistan Telecom Authority, the electronic media watchdog, to take action against their illegal use as they were being used for terrorism. Nighat Dad, the executive director of the Digital Rights Foundation, said the action to block VPNs was contradictory to the rights of privacy granted in the Constitution. This move was only to target certain social media users, she claimed. Senator Palwasha Khan has called a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecom, which she heads, on November 18. The meeting will discuss restrictions on what the telecom regulator called illegal use of VPNs in Pakistan. Khan questioned if the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will be monitoring the content watched by users. A CII member told Dawn that the statement was Naeemis personal views and not the councils decision. He said watching immoral content by using technology cannot be categorised as a religious issue. Tel Aviv, Nov 17 (AP) Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip overnight and into Sunday killed 12 people, according to Palestinian medical officials. Police in Israel, meanwhile, arrested three suspects after flares were fired at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's private residence in the coastal city of Caesarea. The developments are the latest as the Israel-Hamas war grinds on with no end in sight. Israel is also at war with the Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon, where its ground troops have advanced farther to the north. Authorities said Netanyahu and his family were not at the residence when two flares were fired at it overnight, and there were no injuries. A drone launched by Hezbollah struck the residence last month, also when Netanyahu and his family were away. The police did not provide details about the suspects behind the flares, but officials pointed to domestic political critics of Netanyahu. Israel's largely ceremonial president, Isaac Herzog, condemned the incident and warned against an escalation of the violence in the public sphere. Netanyahu has faced months of mass protests over his handling of the hostage crisis unleashed by Hamas' Oct 7, 2023 attack into Israel, which ignited the ongoing war in Gaza. Critics blame Netanyahu for the security and intelligence failures that allowed the attack to happen and for not reaching a deal with Hamas to release scores of hostages still held inside Gaza. Israelis rallied again in Tel Aviv on Saturday night to demand a cease-fire deal to return them. Justice Minister Yariv Levin meanwhile seized on the flare attack to call for a revival of his plans to overhaul the Israeli judiciary, which had sparked months of mass protests before the war and remains deeply divisive. The time has come to provide full support for the restoration of the justice system and the law enforcement systems, and to put an end to anarchy, rampage, refusal, and attempts to harm the Prime Minister," he said in a statement. Supporters said the judiciary changes aim to strengthen democracy by circumscribing the authority of unelected judges and turning over more powers to elected officials. Opponents see the overhaul as a power grab by Netanyahu, who is on trial for corruption charges, and an assault on a key watchdog. Opposition Leader Yair Lapid said in a post on X that he strongly condemns the firing of flares at Netanyahu's home while blasting Levin's proposal. Levin should go home with rest of this irresponsible government, Lapid wrote. We will not let him turn Israel into an undemocratic state. Overnight strikes in central Gaza kill 12 The strike killed six people in Nuseirat and another four in Bureij, two built-up refugee camps in central Gaza dating back to the 1948 war surrounding Israel's creation. Another two people were killed in a strike on Gaza's main north-south highway, according to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in the central city of Deir al-Balah, which received all 12 bodies. The war between Israel and Hamas began after Palestinian militants stormed into Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing about 1,200 people mostly civilians and abducting 250 others. Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, about a third of them believed to be dead. The Health Ministry in Gaza says around 43,800 Palestinians have been killed in the war. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but has said women and children make up more than half the fatalities. Around 90% of Gaza's population of 2.3 million Palestinians have been displaced, and large areas of the territory have been flattened by Israeli bombardment and ground operations. The U.N. Security Council's 10 elected members on Thursday circulated a draft resolution demanding an immediate, unconditional and permanent cease-fire in Gaza. The US, Israel's closest ally, holds the key to whether the council adopts the resolution. (AP) NSA NSA Abuja, Nov 17 (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday held extensive talks with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu focusing on boosting the India-Nigeria partnership in a range of areas, including trade, investment and digital public infrastructure. Modi arrived in the Nigerian capital early Sunday on the first trip to the West African country by an Indian prime minister after a gap of 17 years. The prime minister was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the presidential villa following which he held one-on-one meeting with Tinubu. Both sides are likely to ink several agreements following the delegation-level talks. Modi is in Nigeria as part of a three-nation tour. From Abuja, he will travel to Brazil to attend the G20 summit. His last destination will be Guyana. The India-Nigeria ties were elevated to the status of a "strategic partnership' during the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's visit to the African nation in October 2007. Nigeria has been a close partner of India for over six decades. New Delhi established its diplomatic House in Lagos in November 1958, two years before Nigeria became independent in 1960. The presence of a large Indian expatriate community of about 60,000, the largest in West Africa, adds value to the importance of the long-standing relationship between the two countries. There are more than 200 Indian companies who have invested about USD 27 billion in all important manufacturing sectors and these companies are the second largest employers after the federal government, according to Indian officials. India has emerged as a development partner of Nigeria on two fronts -- by offering developmental assistance through concessional loans (USD 100 million) and by offering capacity-building training programmes. Kyiv, Nov 17 (AP) Russia on Sunday launched a massive drone and missile attack on Ukraine, described by officials as the largest over the past months, targeting energy infrastructure and killing civilians. The attack came as fears are mounting about Moscow's intentions to devastate Ukraine's power generation capacity ahead of the cold winter. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Russia had launched a total of 120 missiles and 90 drones in a large-scale attack across Ukraine. Various types of drones were deployed, he said, including Iranian-made Shaheds as well as cruise, ballistic and aircraft-launched ballistic missiles. Ukrainian defences shot down 140 air targets, Zelenskyy said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app. The enemy's target was our energy infrastructure throughout Ukraine. Unfortunately, there is damage to objects from hits and falling debris. In Mykolaiv, as a result of a drone attack, two people were killed and six others were injured, including two children," Zelenskyy said. Two others were killed in the Odesa region, where the attack damaged energy infrastructure and disrupted power and water supplies, said local Gov. Oleh Kiper. The combined drone and missile attack was the most powerful in three months, according to the head of Kyiv's City Military Administration Serhii Popko. Russian strikes have hammered Ukraine's power infrastructure since Moscow's all-out invasion of its neighbour in February 2022, prompting repeated emergency power shutdowns and nationwide rolling blackouts. Ukrainian officials have routinely urged Western allies to bolster the country's air defences to counter assaults and allow for repairs. Explosions were heard across Ukraine on Sunday, including in capital Kyiv, the key southern port of Odesa, as well as the country's west and central regions, according to local reports. The operational command of Poland's armed forces wrote on X that Polish and allied aircraft, including fighter jets, have been mobilised in Polish airspace because of the massive Russian attack on neighbouring Ukraine. The steps were aimed to provide safety in Poland's border areas, it said. One person was injured after the roof of a five-story residential building caught fire in Kyiv's historic centre, according to Popko. A thermal power plant operated by private energy company DTEK was seriously damaged", the company said. (AP) PY PY Tel Aviv, Nov 17 (AP) Israeli strikes in the Gaza Strip overnight killed 12 people, Palestinian medical officials said on Sunday. Israeli police meanwhile arrested three suspects after flares were fired at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's private residence in the coastal city of Caesarea. In Lebanon, Israeli warplanes pounded the southern suburbs of Beirut after the military warned people to evacuate from several buildings. The Hezbollah militant group has a strong presence in the area, known as the Dahiyeh, and the strikes came as Lebanese officials are considering a United States-brokered cease-fire proposal. One of the strikes hit central Beirut for the first time in weeks. Netanyahu and his family were not at the residence when two flares were fired at it overnight, and there were no injuries, authorities said. A drone launched by Hezbollah struck the residence last month, also when Netanyahu and his family were away. The police did not provide details about the suspects behind the flares, but officials pointed to domestic political critics of Netanyahu. Israel's largely ceremonial president, Isaac Herzog, condemned the incident and warned against an escalation of the violence in the public sphere. Netanyahu has faced months of mass protests over his handling of the hostage crisis unleashed by Hamas' October 7, 2023 attack into Israel, which ignited the ongoing war in Gaza. Critics blame Netanyahu for the security and intelligence failures that allowed the attack to happen and for not reaching a deal with Hamas to release scores of hostages still held inside Gaza. Israelis rallied again in the city of Tel Aviv on Saturday night to demand a cease-fire deal to return them. Overnight strikes in central Gaza kill 12 Israeli strikes killed six people in Nuseirat and another four in Bureij, two built-up refugee camps in central Gaza dating back to the 1948 war surrounding Israel's creation. Another two people were killed in a strike on Gaza's main north-south highway, according to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in the central city of Deir al-Balah, which received all 12 bodies. The war between Israel and Hamas began after Palestinian militants stormed into Israel on October 7, 2023, killing about 1,200 people mostly civilians and abducting 250 others. Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, about a third of them believed to be dead. The Health Ministry in Gaza says around 43,800 Palestinians have been killed in the war. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but has said women and children make up more than half the fatalities. Around 90 per cent of Gaza's population of 2.3 million Palestinians have been displaced, and large areas of the territory have been flattened by Israeli bombardment and ground operations. Israeli warplanes pound southern Beirut The Israeli military posted evacuation warnings on X about an hour before the strikes on southern Beirut, which came early Sunday. Local media reported church bells ringing in and around the area to alert residents. There were no immediate reports of casualties. One of the strikes hit a building in central Beirut belonging to the Arab socialist Baath party. It was the first strike in the central part of the city in weeks. An Associated Press photographer at the scene saw four lifeless bodies and four wounded people. People could be seen fleeing the neighbourhood after the strike, which came without warning. There was no immediate comment on the strike from the Israeli military. The Israeli military also renewed calls on Sunday for residents in over a dozen villages in southern Lebanon to flee as ground troops pushed farther north. Hezbollah began firing rockets, missiles and drones into Israel the day after Hamas' 2023 attack, drawing retaliatory airstrikes. The conflict steadily escalated and erupted into all-out war in September. Israeli forces invaded Lebanon on October 1. Hezbollah has continued to fire dozens of projectiles into Israel each day and has expanded their range to the central part of the country. A rocket barrage on the northern city of Haifa on Saturday damaged a synagogue and wounded two civilians. More than 3,400 people have been killed in Lebanon, according to the country's Health Ministry, and over 1.2 million driven from their homes. It is not known how many of the dead are Hezbollah fighters. On the Israeli side, Hezbollah's aerial attacks have killed at least 76 people, including 31 soldiers, and caused some 60,000 people to flee from communities in the north. Netanyahu ally wants to revive divisive plans to overhaul judiciary Israeli Justice Minister Yariv Levin seized on the flare attack on Netanyahu's home to call for a revival of his plans to overhaul the Israeli judiciary, which had sparked months of mass protests before the war. The time has come to provide full support for the restoration of the justice system and the law enforcement systems, and to put an end to anarchy, rampage, refusal, and attempts to harm the prime minister, he said in a statement. Supporters said the judiciary changes aim to strengthen democracy by circumscribing the authority of unelected judges and turning over more powers to elected officials. Opponents see the overhaul as a power grab by Netanyahu, who is on trial on corruption charges and for an assault on a key watchdog. Many Israelis believe the fierce internal divisions caused by the attempted overhaul had weakened the country and its military ahead of the Hamas assault. Opposition Leader Yair Lapid said in a post on X that he strongly condemns the firing of flares at Netanyahu's home while blasting Levin's proposal. Levin should go home with rest of this irresponsible government, Lapid wrote. We will not let him turn Israel into an undemocratic state. (AP) PY PY Canberra, Nov 17 (AP) Japan will send troops for joint training with US Marines and Australian forces in northern Australia, the three defence ministers said on Sunday as they expressed concern about a spate of confrontations with China's increasingly assertive military. Australia's Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles hosted US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin and Japanese Defence Minister Nakatani Gen for talks in Darwin. The ministers announced trilateral amphibious training between Australia, Japan and the US Marine rotational force in northern Australia from 2025, beginning with Exercise Talisman Sabre. Australia will also join Exercise Orient Shield in Japan for the first time next year. A joint statement reiterated serious concern about destabilising actions in the East and South China seas including dangerous conduct by the Chinese military against Philippine and other vessels from the region. China claims the South China Sea almost in its entirety. The ministers also urged the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. China claims self-ruled Taiwan as its own territory and has stepped up military harassment with frequent drills around the island. Marles, who is also Australia's defense minister, said following talks with his Japanese counterpart in September that both nations looked to ways to build greater familiarity between their forces. One of the obvious opportunities was for Japan to participate in activities during the US Marine rotation in Australia, he said Sunday. Having a more forward-leaning opportunity for greater training with Japan and the US together is a really fantastic opportunity, he said. Asked if the increased military cooperation would anger Beijing, Marles said the decision was about building "the best relationships possible with like-minded countries, with our friends and with our allies. (AP) PY PY Washington, Nov 17 (AP) Tulsi Gabbard, President-elect Donald Trump's choice to lead the U.S. intelligence services, in 2022 endorsed one of Russia's main justifications for invading Ukraine: the existence of dozens of U.S.-funded biolabs working on some of the world's nastiest pathogens. Moscow claimed Ukraine was using the labs to create deadly bioweapons similar to COVID-19 that could be used against Russia, and that Russian President Vladimir Putin had no choice but to invade neighboring Ukraine to protect his country. In fact, the labs are public and part of an international effort to control outbreaks and stop bioweapons. Gabbard, a military veteran and a former Democratic congresswoman from Hawaii, later said she wasn't accusing the United States or Ukraine of anything nefarious and was just voicing concerns about protecting the labs. But to critics in the U.S., including lawmakers in both parties, the comments showed a disturbing willingness to parrot Russian propaganda a tendency that has earned Gabbard praise on Russian state TV. Gabbard's past comments supportive of Russia as well as secret meetings with Syria's president, a close ally of Russia and Iran are attracting fresh scrutiny from Democrats and national security analysts who fear that as Trump's director of national intelligence she could give Russia a major win, undercut Ukraine, weaken U.S. national security and endanger intelligence ties with allies. Gabbard, like Gaetz, is like a hand grenade ready to explode, former Trump national security adviser John Bolton said, speaking of Matt Gaetz, the former Florida congressman who is Trump's pick for attorney general. Republicans who throw themselves on those grenades for Donald Trump are risking their own personal reputations and places in history. Gabbard says American assistance for Ukraine jeopardizes global security by antagonizing Russia. She has criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as corrupt and has expressed sympathy for Russia's position, given Ukraine's desire to join NATO, the Western military alliance. This war and suffering could have easily been avoided if Biden Admin/NATO had simply acknowledged Russia's legitimate security concerns, she posted on Twitter at the start of Russia's invasion in 2022. Democrats say Gabbard's comments signify a pro-Russian bent that poses a problem for U.S. national security if she is confirmed by the Senate. Do you really want her to have all of the secrets of the United States and our defense intelligence agencies when she has so clearly been in Putin's pocket? Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., said on MSNBC. That just has to be a hard no. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence was created after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks to coordinate the nation's intelligence agencies and act as the president's main intelligence adviser. Gabbard and the Trump transition team did not respond to questions seeking comment. She has in the past defended her actions and said her military service she has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades and deployed to Iraq and Kuwait has made her skeptical about military interventions. Gabbard also has defended Trump's relationship with autocrats such as Putin, saying it shows Trump has the courage to meet with adversaries, dictators, allies and partners alike in the pursuit of peace, seeing war as a last resort. Gabbard's own meetings with Syrian President Bashar Assad in 2017 angered many of her then-fellow Democrats. They said her visit helped legitimize a leader accused of war crimes and who has served as a proxy and host for Russia and Iran in the Middle East. Assad welcomed Russia's military into Syria in 2015 to crush a popular uprising against him. Russian forces and Iranian-allied militias have remained, using Syria as a base for attacks on American troops and their allies. The U.S. has severed diplomatic relations with Syria and placed Assad under heavy sanctions over the brutality with which he, Russian warplanes and Iranian-allied forces crushed the uprising, leading to 500,000 deaths. Gabbard ran for president in 2020 before dropping out and endorsing Democrat Joe Biden, who defeated Trump. Two years later, she left the Democratic Party to become an independent, criticizing her former colleagues as an elitist cabal of warmongers and woke ideologues. She subsequently campaigned for several high-profile Republicans, became a contributor to Fox News and started a podcast. Gabbard's remarks about Russia haven't gone unnoticed in Moscow, where state-run media have praised her and even jokingly referred to her as a Russian agent. An article published Friday in RIA Novosti, a major Russian state-controlled news agency, called Gabbard superwoman" and noted her past appearances on Russian TV, claiming that Ukrainian intelligence views her as probably an agent of the Russian special services. Gabbard's stance on Russia and Syria is likely to come up during her Senate confirmation. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, said that while he has questions about her comments and believes Gabbard should receive the traditional background check during her confirmation process, he doesn't second-guess her loyalties. I certainly would want to ask her about that, Cornyn said of Gabbard's Russia comments. But I have no doubt that she's a patriot. I mean, she served in the United States military and was deployed much of the time. America's allies are watching the nomination process closely, worried about how Trump's incoming administration could affect intelligence cooperation and sharing. Trump's election raises very difficult issues for America's closest allies and members of the Five Eyes group, an intelligence-sharing coalition of the U.S., the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and Canada, according to Thomas Juneau, a former strategic analyst with Canada's Department of National Defence. Will the U.S. be more selective in what it shares, to pressure allies? If yes, this will create mistrust between the U.S. and its closest partners, Juneau said. In the long term, this would negatively affect the Five Eyes, which is an extremely close partnership premised on an extraordinarily high level of trust. Some officials in allied governments declined to speak about Gabbard and other Trump picks. Since Biden's dismal debate showing, which led to Vice President Kamala Harris becoming the Democratic nominee, some key European allies said they already were scrambling to build up a security strategy less reliant on the U.S. French President Emmanuel Macron and other European officials underscored that publicly after the U.S. election. (AP) AMS Abuja, Nov 17 (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that a confident India has embarked on a new journey and the goal is to build a 'Viksit Bharat' as he outlined his government's achievements during the last ten years. Addressing the Indian diaspora in the Nigerian capital, Modi also said that India has emerged as a new hope for the world, embodying growth, peace, prosperity, and democracy. Modi, who began his speech with "Sannu, Nigeria", which translates to Hello", said this was his first visit to Nigeria as Prime Minister, but he did not come alone. "I have brought with me the fragrance of Indian soil and many good wishes for all of you on behalf of crores of Indians," Modi said. Highlighting the achievements of his government, Modi said India has stepped out of its comfort zone, and the country is innovating and creating new paths - this has become the very essence of today's India. "A confident India has embarked on a new journey today. The goal is clear - to build a Viksit Bharat," he said, amid chants of 'Modi-Modi' by the audience. Modi said that India has now more than 1.5 lakh registered Startups. "In the last decade, more than 100 Unicorns have been built. One Unicorn means an Rs 8,000-10,000 crore company. More than 100 companies are proof of the success of India's startup culture," he said, adding that India was able to achieve this because it came out of its comfort zone. He said that in the last decade, India added USD 2 trillion to its GDP. "In 10 years, the size of the Indian economy doubled. Today, India is the fifth largest economy in the world. The day isn't far when India will become a USD 5 trillion economy, and the third largest economy," he said. He said the world is praising India for its progress in the Space industry. India has decided that soon Indians will be sent to space through our own Gaganyaan. "India is also going to build its space station in the space. Leaving the Comfort Zone and making new paths has become India's second nature. In the last 10 years, 25 crore people have been lifted out of poverty," he said. Modi is in Nigeria on the first leg of his three-nation visit at the invitation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This visit is the first by an Indian prime minister to Nigeria in 17 years. When Megan Kemnitz was a little girl pushing a toy stroller around her neighborhood, she knew she wanted to be a mom someday. Although her path to motherhood wasnt what she expected, it led Kemnitz and her husband, Clayton Kemnitz, to adoption. The Kemnitzes are now in the process of adopting their second child, having recently been approved to start matching with birth mothers. In honor of Adoption Awareness Month this November, the Kemnitzes are sharing their journey to raise awareness about the adoption process. While its a long process, Megan Kemnitz said its an amazing opportunity. Its just such a miracle on both ends, just how families are chosen to the selflessness of the birth mom, Megan Kemnitz said. It truly is such a miracle to witness and be a part of. So far in 2024, 367 children have been adopted in Nebraska and 150 children are still waiting for families, according to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. These numbers only account for children born in Nebraska. For the Kemnitzes, the process included hours of paperwork and home visits, but also significant financial costs. Theyve started a GoFundMe to help offset the $60,000 expected cost for their second adoption. They chose A Guardian Angel Adoption, an agency based in Utah that also supports birth mothers with housing, groceries, job training and grief counseling. We really feel like its our role to also support the birth mom in this. Not only is the gift shes giving us priceless, but also she is a huge part of this triad that comes together for adoption and we obviously want the best for her as well, Megan Kemnitz said. After getting married in May 2020, Megan and Clayton knew right away they wanted to start growing a family of their own. The couple tried medications, injections and four surgeries in an attempt to conceive. After several years of struggling with infertility and multiple miscarriages, Megan Kemnitz knew something had to change. I was ready to be done with everything, like close every door with every doctor and pursue adoption, Megan Kemnitz said. We prayed about it for a couple months after that and then we knew we were ready. The process was overwhelming, involving piles of paperwork, numerous interviews, home visits and 30 hours of training on topics like parenting, adoption practices and hearing personal stories from other families. Additional classes were also tacked on as the Kemnitzes were open to a biracial adoption. The classes were helpful, Clayton Kemnitz said. Going into it, we just wanted to have a closed adoption and then through that, we kind of learned the importance of open adoption. In a closed adoption, the adoptive family and birth parents share little to no contact with one another and the biological parents records are sealed. An open adoption allows continued contact after the adoption. For their first adoption, Megan and Clayton used a multi-agency approach, where they applied to several different adoption agencies and became active, meaning they could start presenting their story to situations, or expectant moms ready to place their child for adoption. Each adopting couple creates a portfolio, which they can only present to one mom at a time. Each mom is given only a couple dozen applications and she selects two to three families to talk to further. Megan Kemnitz said she was constantly on pins and needles waiting for situations to come up and waiting to hear if they were chosen or not. Within just two weeks of being approved, they matched with a birth mother expecting a baby girl, Aleeyah. Most people have to wait months and years, Clayton Kemnitz said. We were very blessed that way. Megan and Clayton were thrilled, but nervous. At any point before their daughter was born, the birth mother could change her mind. Coming from years of infertility and loss, I feel like I was just waiting for the shoe to drop at every corner, Megan Kemnitz said. The Kemnitzes had yet to meet the birth mom or see ultrasounds when they arrived at the hospital out of state with flowers to meet the stranger giving birth. It was amazing to meet her while also feeling so helpless, Megan Kemnitz said. Shes laboring and in pain and discomfort, and youre like, Im helpless. That evening, their daughter Aleeyah was born and Megan and Clayton's hearts melted when they saw their baby for the first time. Though it was a joyful moment, it was filled with anxiety. In Aleeyahs home state, adoption laws allowed a 24 hour and 30-minute period where her mother could change her mind. That 24 hours plus 30 minutes was hands-down the hardest time throughout this whole process, Megan Kemnitz said. This is my baby and I dont know if Im bringing my baby home. In Nebraska, birth moms have 48 hours to change their minds before giving legally binding consent. The emotions of holding your baby you just gave birth to right in front of you as youre signing parental rights away, I cannot imagine, Megan Kemnitz said. No one told us, should it be five minutes? Should it be 30 minutes? Over an hour? We were a hot mess in the hospital room. Even after rights were relinquished, Megan and Clayton couldnt return to Nebraska for another week due to interstate adoption laws. Back in Lincoln, the Kemnitzes completed six months of home visits with social workers. Just before Christmas, Megan and Clayton appeared before a judge for an adoption decree. That was finally like a deep breath after everything, Megan Kemnitz said. Shes our daughter, she has been all along, but it is final. Now, the Kemnitzes are taking each day as it comes with Aleeyah after praying for her. Watching her in awe and wonder and watching her learn new things has just been so fun, Megan Kemnitz said. Theres just such a light about her. Shes a special little girl. The couple is committed to keeping Aleeyahs adoption story open and making sure the birth mom is never forgotten, including keeping photos in Aleeyahs nursery. Megan Kemnitz said she has the utmost respect for Aleeyahs mom and wants their daughter to know about her birth moms strength and selflessness. We call her by name, we pray for her at night together. Shes very much a part of her life, Megan Kemnitz said. Looking back on their adoption journey, she said she wishes that they were more aware of what would occur, but she wouldnt have changed a thing. Expect the unexpected and watch God work miracles as you wait, Megan Kemnitz said. You cant know it until you live it. For those interested in adoption, there are seven private adoption agencies and 31 foster care adoption agencies in Nebraska. More information is available at adoptionnebraska.com and nfapa.org. Bhopal, Nov 17 (PTI) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Sunday demanded an apology from the opposition Congress for criticising his foreign tour, aimed at attracting investment to the BJP-governed state. Yadav is scheduled to visit two European nations from November 23 to December 1. State Congress chief Jitu Patwari has dubbed Yadavs tour of the United Kingdom and Germany an open drama in the name of investment and jibed that the CM wants to be an international tourist like Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Responding to Congress criticism, Yadav said, If we are organising a world-class investors summit in February next year, I must visit abroad to invite the investors. I am going to England and Germany and go wherever we will find investors. The CM urged the opposition to see things positively and make efforts to bring investment to the state. If you want the welfare of Madhya Pradesh, you will have to rise above politics. I appeal to them through you (media) that they apologise for their statements. Its not good to oppose the investors summit, he said. Yadav said that the state government has successfully organised regional industry conclaves in Sagar, Jabalpur, Rewa and Ujjain and a large amount of investment is coming in which will further generate employment. He said that Rs 2.5 lakh crore to Rs 3 lakh crore will come to Madhya Pradesh and the investment will boost the states growth. Yadav said that regional industry conclaves will be organised in Narmadapuram and Shahdol districts before the investors meet in February 2025. In a statement on Saturday, Patwari had said, An open drama is going on in the name of investment in Madhya Pradesh. Crores of rupees are being spent in the name of government publicity. When the CM and officials got bored of roaming in various states, they are now exploring the possibilities of government tourism abroad. The Congress leader claimed that a team of officials would accompany the CM to prepare for roadshows in London, Munich and Berlin to attract investment to the MP. Taking inspiration from the prime minister, now the chief minister of Madhya Pradesh also wants to become an international tourist, Patwari had said. Pune, Nov 17 (PTI) Swami Govinddev Giri, the treasurer of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, said on Sunday that it was wrong to describe a political fight as vote jihad, asserting that the Hindu society must counter it. His comments come amid Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnaviss attacks on vote jihad and calls to respond to it with dharma-yudh. Speaking to reporters here, the Hindu seer said directions about whom to vote were earlier discretely issued from religious places by distributing pamphlets but slogans like vote jihad are now being openly given. The religious leader said 'jihad' is equivalent to dharma-yudh. Calling a fight between two political parties 'yudh' is not right. But since vote jihad is being openly advocated, it must be countered by the Hindu society without hesitation, he said. Voting is the right and responsibility of good citizens, said the religious leader from Ayodhya Ram temple. Being a true Hindu is pro-humanity, and treating everyone equally like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, he said, adding, We should tolerate injustice as well. Earlier, referring to a purported appeal by an Islamic scholar for vote jihad against the BJP-led Mahayuti government, Fadnavis had called for a dharma-yudh of votes to counter it. During a few rallies in Pune ahead of the November 20 assembly polls, Fadnavis had played a video by Islamic scholar Sajjad Nomani and claimed that the slogan of vote-Jihad was raised. It is being said that a person who votes for the BJP must be ostracised, Fadnavis claimed. If these people are trying to do vote jihad, if they are saying they will destabilise the government through vote jihad, then you will also have to do dharma-yudh of votes, Fadnavis had said in a swipe at the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi. Mumbai, Nov 17 (PTI) BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari on Sunday called the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) an opportunist coalition, accusing it of using one community as a vote bank "just like the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in Bengal". Talking to reporters, Adhikari said the MVA, comprising the Congress, NCP (SP) and Shiv Sena (UBT), and the TMC indulged in corruption, nepotism, and appeasement politics. "The MVA is an opportunist alliance, just like the TMC in West Bengal. Both rely on family politics and exploit one community as a vote bank. This community's population has been steadily increasing from 14 per cent in Bengal in 1951, it has reached 32 per cent. Similarly, in Jharkhand, their population has risen from 9 per cent to 24 per cent. This is the result of appeasement politics," he said, alleging a rise in the number of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. The BJP leader alleged that illegal immigration and fraudulent activities in West Bengal had created a "supply line" that impacts other states, including Maharashtra. He claimed, "The supply line originates in Bengal. Fake Aadhaar cards, voter enrolments, and other illegal activities are carried out there. There are 72 locations in Bengal where the state government has refused to provide land for the Border Security Force (BSF). This allows illegal entries and activities that disrupt the security and economy of states like Maharashtra." The BJP leader also cited crimes allegedly involving immigrants. He alleged, "Mamata Banerjee is allowing entry to Rohingya people and Bangladeshi immigrants. Recent incidents, such as the sex racket in Indore and stone-throwing on Hanuman Jayanti in Delhi, are linked to individuals from Bengal. The problem is widespread and deliberate." Adhikari accused the MVA of following a similar pattern, alleging that their politics revolves around nepotism and corruption. "Many of their leaders are in jail or under investigation. This alliance, like the Mamata Banerjee government, prioritises personal interests over development," he said. Adhikari urged voters in Maharashtra to reject alliances like the MVA and focus on development. "Maharashtra's strength is India's strength. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, we aim for a developed India by 2047. It is time to vote for a transparent and accountable government that supports this vision," he said. Pune, Nov 17 (PTI) Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday likened the BJP and RSS to "poison" and termed them as "politically most dangerous" in India. Addressing a rally in Sangli on the penultimate day before the campaigning for the Maharashtra assembly polls concluded, Kharge used the "killing the poisonous snake" analogy in his speech. "If there is anything which is politically the most dangerous in India is the BJP and RSS. They are like poison. If a snake bites, the person (who is bitten) dies...such a poisonous snake should be killed," said Kharge. He targeted Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath over the death of 10 newborns in a fire at a medical college. Without naming Vishal Patil, the Congress rebel and Independent MP from Sangli, Kharge accused him of betraying the party and supporting his sister-in-law, who is contesting as an Independent nominee in the November 20 assembly elections. In a dig at BJP, Kharge said the number of leaders who campaigned in Maharashtra polls outnumbered the number of candidates of the saffron party in the fray. "The Prime Minister, Home Minister (Amit Shah) and other leaders have come here. Today, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath was also here. No idea what happened to him. In UP, in a fire at a hospital in Jhansi, 10 kids died. Despite that, his rallies in Maharashtra didn't stop," the Congress president said. Kharge took potshots at PM Narendra Modi for holding rallies for state-level elections. This is an election for assembly and not to elect the prime minister of the country, he said, adding that his (Modi's) "thirst for authority" is unsatiated. He slammed Modi for not visiting strife-torn Manipur and instead travelling abroad. "Modi was here till yesterday. Today he is abroad. Manipur is burning, people are dying, adivasi women are disrespected, and women are raped but Modi never visited Manipur. He is on foreign tours. Today he is also visiting a country. I want to tell him first to look after your home. Make the country strong first. You can go anywhere later," Kharge added. He questioned the output of Modi's meetings with Donald Trump, Pakistan's prime minister, and presidents of Russia and China from India's perspective. The 83-year-old leader said his age didn't stop him from supporting the Congress' ideology and meeting people. "There are leaders who were given positions by the party and benefited. We are not criticising anyone but if the Congress party is giving you everything, you should not betray it," said Kharge in an apparent dig at Vishal Patil. Kharge said the Congress didn't want any rift in the family of (former chief minister) late Vasantdada Patil, who hailed from Sangli. "I was told that the Lok Sabha MP from Sangli (Vishal Patil) won with the support of Congress party and Congress party has re-inducted him with respect," he said. Kharge said he respects the woman candidate who is contesting as an Independent because of her association with Congress. "I had promised and told Ramesh Chennithala (Maharashtra Congress incharge) that we will offer whatever she wants after the elections. We sent Chennithala and KC Venugopal to talk to them as we did not want any rift in Vasantdada Patil's house and Sangli," he added. Kharge said his assurances, however, didn't work. Jayashree Patil, from former chief minister Vasantdada Patils family, has entered the fray as an independent candidate from Sangli against Congress nominee Prithviraj Patil. "It is difficult to wake up those people who are pretending to sleep," Kharge added. Patna, Nov 17 (PTI) One eye of a man who was shot at was found missing hours after his death at a state-run hospital in the Bihar capital, with doctors blaming rats for gnawing it and the deceased's family members suspecting foul play. Fantush Kumar, who was admitted to Nalanda Medical College and Hospital (NMCH) in Patna after being shot at by unknown assailants on November 15, succumbed to his injuries on Friday night. His body was kept on the ICU bed as post-mortem examination could not be conducted at night. The autopsy was conducted on Saturday morning. "As the body was being brought from the morgue, we noticed that the left eye was missing and a surgical blade was lying on the stretcher beside the body," a family member said. The family members alleged negligence and foul play, while some doctors suspected that rats might have gnawed the eye. Speaking to reporters, NMCH medical superintendent Binod Kumar Singh said, "A medical team has been constituted to probe the matter. It's a serious issue and strict action must be taken against those found guilty." "A group of doctors suspect that rats might have gnawed the eye. All aspects pertaining to the incident are being probed. We are also waiting for the autopsy report," he said. "How the eye was gouged out can only be known after receiving the autopsy report. The hospital administration has also lodged a formal complaint with the Alamganj police station in this regard," the medical superintendent said. Speaking to PTI on Sunday, Rajiv Kumar, Station House Officer (SHO) of Alamganj police station, said, "A case has been registered on the basis of a formal complaint filed by the hospital administration. We are examining the CCTV footage of the hospital and also sought clarifications from the doctors who performed the post-mortem examination. We are also examining family members of the deceased as well as other hospital staffers. The case is being investigated from all angles." Family members of the deceased have not lodged any complaint so far. Kolkata, Nov 17 (PTI) Following are the top stories from the Eastern Region at 5 pm. CAL 26 JH-ELECTIONS-NADDA-DHANBAD *Selfish motives behind formation of JMM-Cong-RJD alliance in Jharkhand, alleges Nadda Dhanbad: BJP president Jagat Prasad Nadda on Sunday attacked the ruling JMM-led coalition in Jharkhand, alleging that "selfish motives" led to the formation of the alliance which promotes dynastic politics and appeasement for vote bank politics. CAL 20 JH-ELECTIONS-NADDA Intel report says B'deshis given shelter in madrasas, Soren govt facilitated Aadhaar, land: Nadda Bokaro: BJP president J P Nadda on Sunday attacked the JMM-led coalition government in Jharkhand, accusing it of sheltering Bangladeshi infiltrators in madrasas in the state and ensuring Aadhaar, voter ID card, gas connection, ration card and land for them. CAL 19 JH-ELECTIONS-BRINDA KARAT BJP raises infiltration issue for political gains, converted Jharkhand to 'lootkhand': Brinda Karat Pakur: Senior CPI (M) leader Brinda Karat on Sunday accused the BJP of raising the infiltration issue in the election campaign only for publicity and political gains. CAL 7 MN-BODIES-FUNERAL Manipur: Funeral of 10 Kuki-Zo youths on hold till receipt of autopsy reports Churachandpur/Guwahati: The funeral of 10 Kuki-Zo youths, who were killed in an alleged gunfight with CRPF, will not be conducted till their post-mortem reports were handed over to the families, a leading organisation representing the community said on Sunday. CAL 6 MN-LD SITUATION Houses of 4 more MLAs torched in Manipur, agitators attempt to storm CM's ancestral residence Imphal: Irate mobs set fire to the residences of three more BJP legislators, one of whom is a senior minister, and a Congress MLA in various districts of Imphal Valley even as security forces foiled the attempt of agitators to storm the ancestral residence of Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, officials said. CAL 5 BH-MISSING EYE Dead man's eye goes missing at Bihar hospital, doctors blame rats, family suspects foul play Patna: One eye of a man who was shot at was found missing hours after his death at a state-run hospital in the Bihar capital, with doctors blaming rats for gnawing it and the deceased's family members suspecting foul play.* Ranchi, Nov 17 (PTI) Senior BJP leader and former Himachal Pradesh chief minister Jairam Thakur on Sunday accused the Congress of not fulfilling its poll promises. He alleged that no promise made by the Congress party to the people during elections in Himachal Pradesh was fulfilled even after two years. The Congress had given 10 guarantees in Himachal Pradesh. Two years have passed but it did not fulfil even one of its guarantees till now, Thakur alleged while addressing media persons here. The grand old party had ousted the Jairam Thakur-headed BJP government in 2022. He claimed that the Congress, during electioneering, had promised Rs 1,500 per month to women between 18 and 60 years, five lakh jobs to youth and free electricity up to 300 units. None of them was fulfilled till now. But the party has been making false claims in Jharkhand that they are fulfilling the promises in Himachal Pradesh. I appeal to the people of Jharkhand not to fall prey to promises of the Congress party, he said. Kolkata, Nov 17 (PTI) Describing literature as an ever-flowing river whose course is never obstructed, Sahitya Academi awardee Bengali author Sirshendu Mukhopadhyay said no writer or poet will be forever alive but their literary works will stand the scrutiny of time, speaking for themselves. Mukhopadhyay was delivering his address at the three-day 10th Appejay Bangla Sahitya Samman here which ended Sunday. "Literature is like a flowing river which originates from hills and keeps flowing through turns and bends but never stops. People who practise literature and arts will stop along their life's course one day but their works will continue to captivate readers for ages. Like rivers from mountains which reach the plain but never cease on their path," he said. The 89-year-old author of acclaimed literary works like 'Manabjamin' 'Ghunpoka' and 'Manojder Adhbut Bari' said the communication with the internal self, the conscience of the writer, poet and painter gives birth to a work of art. "The exercise of writing is fraught with pains, anguish and mental exhaustion but the overwhelming feeling and experience is one of relief, that is exhilarating, cathartic experience at the end," observed the Ananda Purashkar winner. Mukhopadhyay said while there had been movements for literature and for arts in the past, that is conspicuously absent now. "Movement for literature has not been witnessed in contemporary times," he said without elaborating. Those "not having much work to do" in a materialistic sense, turn out to be "poets and writers and I ask them to carry on without much worry. The world needs such people," he said in a lighter vein. Eminent poet Subodh Sarkar, who was also present, said if someone has love for literature, it will not bother him in which language that has been written - Bengali, English, Spanish whatever. Sarkar said literary meets are important to foster love for literature, for written words among youngsters "which is becoming rare in the present age of social media." The Apeejay Bangla Sahitya Utsob (ABSU), curated by Oxford Bookstores, was held from November 15 to 17. The three-day literary extravaganza brought together renowned names in Bengali literature and arts. The 14 expertly curated sessions explored diverse themes, from children's literature to politics, cinema, poetry, sports, and the centenary celebrations of prominent Bengali literary figures. Itanagar, Nov 17 (PTI) The Gajraj Corps of the Indian Army observed Nuranang Day in Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh on Sunday to pay homage to the sacrifices made by 4 Garhwal Rifles during the Battle of Nuranang on November 17, 1962. The occasion honoured the valour of Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat( Maha Vir Chakra), and his comrades, who displayed extraordinary bravery during the Sino-Indian War, a defence spokesperson said. The event began with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Jaswant Garh War Memorial, attended by the family of Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, civil officials, ex-servicemen, students, tourists and over 300 participants, including additional deputy commissioner of Jang Hakraso Kri and honoured the martyrs who made the ultimate sacrifice for the Nations sovereignty. A newly established memorial was also inaugurated during the event, Defence Spokesperson Lt Col Mahendra Rawat said. A gripping portrayal of the Battle of Nuranang brought history to life during the event, showcasing the indomitable spirit of Indian soldiers. The Nuranang Day celebrations reflected a shared resolve among the people of Arunachal Pradesh, the Indian Army, and the state administration to honour the legacy of Indias war heroes. The event culminated with the felicitation of Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawats family and ex-servicemen, underscoring the nations gratitude for their sacrifices. Chandigarh, Nov 17 (PTI) Tributes were paid to the martyrs here on Sunday as a precursor to the eighth edition of Military Literature Festival, with Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria laying a wreath at the Chandigarh War Memorial here. Former Army chief General (Retd.) V P Malik, former Indian Air Force chief B S Dhanoa and Military Literature Festival association chairman Lieutenant General (Retd.) T S Shergill were also present on the occasion. A "Bravehearts Ride" motorcycle rally carrying the message of courage, sacrifice and patriotism was also organised here on Sunday as part of the events connected with the Military Literature Festival (MLF). The eighth edition of the Military Literature Festival will be held here on November 30 and December 1. "We paid our tributes to the martyrs, who made supreme sacrifices for the motherland," Kataria told reporters here after laying a wreath at the memorial. He said the valour of the bravehearts continues to inspire generations and exhorted the youth to embrace the noble path of serving the nation with the same courage and dedication shown by these heroes. Replying to a question, Kataria said even today the youth have a great fascination for the armed forces. "Youth are the future of the country. The future of the country is going to be shaped by them... If one works with dedication, honesty, the country progresses with cooperation from all...and we can achieve the aim of a developed nation by 2047," he said. Speaking on the sidelines, General Malik said the main purpose of this MLF is to inspire the youth. With the 25th anniversary of the Kargil War triumph being the historical military theme of this year's MLF, General Malik, who was the Army chief at that time, said there would be discussions about the Kargil war. When asked that the country has during the past few years laid emphasis on self-reliance in defence, General Malik said 'Atmanirbharta' is a good thing. "During the Kargil War, we had to import 75 per cent of arms and ammunition... For the security of a nation, self-reliance, especially when it comes to defence equipment and defence weapons, is necessary," he told PTI. Asked about lessons our country can learn from the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas conflicts, General Malik said the (Indian) armed forces are watching and observing them very carefully. "All the new issues which are coming up, new concepts which are coming up, they are all watching and we are drawing those lessons and we are incorporating them," said General Malik. "I keep hearing the discussions which are taking place. So, it is not that we are just looking at it only, but we are also absorbing those lessons and making them as part of our doctrines," he added. When asked that warfare has transcended into new domains, cyber etc., General Malik said, "The nature of conflict has expanded quite a lot. A lot of things have come, cyber war etc. These are new aspects of the nature of conflict which are being observed and these lessons are being absorbed by the armed forces." "The whole nature of warfare has changed, one of the main reasons is because of the technological changes that have come about. Warfare today is a very dynamic issue because the technology is moving so fast. Because of that you find a new weapon system, new capabilities are coming. Armed forces are also trying and improving these capabilities in our own doctrines," he added. On the military recruitment scheme Agnipath, General Malik said it is a good scheme aimed at ensuring the youthful profile of the armed forces. Meanwhile, Lieutenant General Shergill said warfare has changed in scope and size. Referring to increased domains of warfare, he said there will be a discussion on this during the MLF. Former Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Dhanoa touching upon motivating the youth to join the armed forces felt that military veterans can play an important role in this. "The veterans must tell their stories. Aim is what, if there is a child, you must put stars in the eyes of the child. My grandfather did it for me when I was a child. He used to tell me stories. I decided to join the military at a very early age. It is our job as veterans that we speak to the young people, young children, organise things like this (MLF), and put stars in the eyes of the children," he said. The former IAF chief said the youth must join the military for two reasons -- "one is of course service to the nation and second is that this is the job they want to do and nothing else. If that is your motivation, you will do very well". Referring to the IAF's Heritage Centre in Chandigarh whose exhibits act as a source of inspiration for future generations showcasing the indomitable spirit of the Indian Air Force, he said, "We must have more places like this so that we can motivate the children. When they go around and see things like this, it will motivate them." "On the 50th anniversary of the 1971 (Indo-Pak) war, the Air Force Association published a book in which the veterans from all branches of the IAF, who were in that war, wrote their story. When people read it, they get motivated...Likewise, the MLF does a tremendous job in motivating people to come and join the military," he added. Across Lincoln, some children go to sleep every night on the floor, mats, or, for those more fortunate, on a mattress shared with siblings. Saturday morning, a group of 60 volunteers made 20 bed frames on a mission to ensure no child in the community has to sleep on the floor. The bed-building day was hosted by the new Lincoln chapter of the nationwide nonprofit Sleep in Heavenly Peace. The organization, which was founded in 2012 in Idaho, has grown to over 325 chapters nationwide including the Lincoln branch that began this year. It all started in February when Rhonda and Doug Obermeier, from Lincoln, came across one of the nonprofit beds in Phoenix. After returning to Nebraska, the couple was determined to get involved. However, the closest chapter was in Omaha, where volunteers have built more than 900 beds this year alone. After 10 months of submitting applications and attending training, the Obermeiers were able to host their first bed-building day in Lincoln. The event was held at Hampton Enterprises, a construction company in Lincoln that donated the space. Hampton Enterprises also provided an enclosed trailer for the nonprofit. Scott Lockard, president of Hampton Enterprises, said their involvement was an easy decision. One of our core values is community. Building in our community, giving back to our community, investing in our community, Lockard said. Connie Hilligoss, the development manager for the Lincoln chapter, couldnt sleep Friday night as she worried that people wouldnt show up on Saturday. When morning came, more than 60 volunteers ranging from 16 to 78 years old showed up to lend a hand, including students from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Its phenomenal, Hilligoss said. They all showed up and theyre all thrilled. For Adam Schrunk, a local firefighter and president of the Lincoln Fire Fighters Association, the cause hit close to home. Nearly every day, Schrunk said they see kids sleeping on the floor. As a parent, he knows that theres nothing the kids can do about the situations theyre in. It is terrible to see that, Schrunk said. Its such a simple thing that we can provide in a bed. We all take it for granted. Around 10 firefighters and EMTs showed up on their day off Saturday to help build the beds. When they asked us in our interview, Why do you want to be a firefighter? everybody answers the same way we want to help people, Schrunk said. Its an opportunity on our off day to do it for another part of what we do and some of the same people we serve. The volunteers worked in an assembly line to create the beds from scratch, each of which costs about $250. The bed frames are stained with a special mixture made by dissolving steel wool in vinegar to create a rust. The steel wool component repels bed bugs, other insects and mice, so its one more way that were creating safety, Hilligoss said. This stain was custom designed for this because we know that a lot of our beds are going into low income, maybe not the best environments. Each bed comes with a mattress, pillow, bedding set and quilt. We are doing this to make beds and get them in the homes. Were not here to make them and put them in a storage locker room, Hilligoss said. Before the building got started, the Obermeiers were able to deliver their first bed Thursday to a 5-year-old whose family applied 15 months ago. It was emotional because it was the first bed. Youve gone through this 10-month process to get your feet on the ground, Rhonda Obermeier said. Currently, there are 40 children on the waiting list for beds in Lincoln, with the numbers expected to grow as the initiative gains attention. Rhonda Obermeier estimates that nearly 9,000 children in Lincoln do not have a bed of their own. Its hard to imagine a kid in our day and age who doesn't have a bed, Rhonda said. We didn't realize the need in Lincoln. In addition to the volunteers, local businesses have been instrumental in supporting the cause by donating money and materials. Jim Cada, an attorney with the law firm Cada, Cada & Jewson, donated $5,000 worth of machinery for the project. Cada said he didnt realize how extensive the project was until he showed up Saturday and saw the volunteers sawing, drilling and assembling the bed pieces. Its really nice that we have it and it works so well, Cada said. You have so many volunteers that come and work and thats really sweet. Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church also played a key role in the first build, providing $6,000 to purchase the wood for the beds and a dozen volunteers. We believe in the mission of Sleep in Heavenly Peace, that every child should have a comfortable, warm, safe place to sleep, the Rev. Jeff Warrick said. We see it as a tangible way to live out our faith. Another building day will be held on Dec. 7, where the group hopes to build another 20 beds. Were just inviting everyone to give just a little of their time to make the world better for someone else in such a huge way, Hilligoss said. Think about if youve never had a bed if youre a child and how much their life changes. The 40 beds that will be made this year will be delivered to homes soon, with many of them expected to be in place before Christmas. The recipients range from foster children to low-income immigrant families, all between the ages of 3 and 17. For the time being, the local chapter is focusing on serving three zip codes in Lincoln. We dont want to overpromise and under-deliver, Doug Obermeier said. When we get beds going and we start vetting more, we can open up to more zip codes. Next year, Hilligoss hopes to have more build days and construct around 1,000 beds. To help with the effort, donations of new twin-size bedding can be dropped off at Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church, 8300 E. Pointe Road. Bedding can also be purchased through the chapters Amazon or Walmart wishlists. In addition to building beds, the chapter is looking for volunteers to help deliver and set up beds in homes. For more information on how to get involved as a volunteer or to apply for a bed, visit SHPBeds.org. Jaipur, Nov 17 (PTI) Independent MLA Ravindra Singh Bhati has been booked for obstructing government work during a protest against a private company in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer district. The MLA allegedly got two youths, who were detained during the protest, freed from police detention. Bhati, the MLA from Sheo (Barmer), instructed the youths to come out of the police jeep. They got down from the vehicle and went away. On the directions of Jaisalmer Superintendent of Police Sudhir Chaudhary, a case was registered against Bhati at the Jhinjhinyali Police Station on Sunday for obstructing government work. The case will be investigated by CIB-CB. The police said that two villagers were detained on charges of causing disturbances during a protest against a private company in Baiya, Jaisalmer, on Friday. The police took them from the protest site and made them sit in a police jeep. The MLA reached there, intervened and got them released. A protest is going on in Baiya village where a private company is constructing a grid substation (GSS). Bhati is supporting the agitation. Kendrapara, Nov 17 (PTI) A court in Odisha's Kendrapara district sentenced a 53-year-old man to 20-years rigorous imprisonment for raping a minor girl. The Additional District Judge-cum-Special judge (POCSO) Kendrapara, Pragyan Paramita Roul pronounced the verdict on Saturday relying on the evidence of 19 witnesses including the victim girl and medical report, said Manoj Kumar Sahu, the special public prosecutor of the court. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 on the convict Kapilendra Mallick, he said. The court also directed the Odisha State Legal Services Authority (OSLSA) to pay a compensation of Rs 4 lakh to the victim girl under the government's Odisha Victim Compensation Scheme, Sahu said. According to the prosecution, the girl was raped by Mallick, a neighbour, on June 6, 2022, in his house when she had gone to his house to meet her friend. The girl's mother had filed an FIR at the local police station and Mallick was arrested. Jaipur, Nov 17 (PTI) A Deoli court on Sunday sent Independent candidate Naresh Meena, who was arrested on a production warrant in connection with the last week's violence, to 14-day judicial custody in a case of arson. Meena contested the November 13 Deoli-Uniara assembly bypoll as an Independent candidate. He was arrested Thursday for slapping an SDM on the day of polling. Meena was arrested again by Tonk Police from jail on Saturday in a case of arson and brought to Kotwali Police Station. On Sunday, he was produced through video conference before the court which ordered he be sent to judicial custody for 14 days, Deputy Superintendent of Police Raghuveer Singh Bhati said. On November 13, Meena slapped Sub-Divisional Magistrate Amit Chaudhary while he was on election duty in Samravta village in the Deoli-Uniara assembly constituency. When the voting ended and the polling party was leaving, Meena and his supporters tried to stop them. The mob turned violent and hurt 26 policemen. Nearly 60 two-wheelers and 18 four-wheelers were also torched in the village. Four FIRs have so far been registered against Meena in connection with the incidents. Chennai, Nov 17 (PTI) Independent exercise of judicial power was not only a judge's prerogative but also a duty and it was therefore important that judges decide matters based on their own appreciation of the law and as per their conscience, unfettered by other views, Justice B V Nagarathna, Judge of the Supreme Court has said. Delivering the Justice S Natarajan Centenary Commemoration lecture here on Saturday, Justice Nagarathna, furthermore said that it was ultimately conviction, courage and independence of judges which decide matters before a court of law. She said: "From the aspect of judicial independence within the court system, separate opinions or dissenting opinions must be seen as an expression of mutual independence of the judges, i.e., independence of a judge from other judges. This is independence of the judiciary in its most enlightened form." She noted that she and Justice Bela M Trivedi had dissented on Constitutional bench matters. Her lecture was on the theme of "Checks and Balances under the Indian Constitution through a Looking Glass." Also, she said only an independent and impartial judiciary can effectively exercise its power of judicial review. Judicial independence is the degree to which a judge decides cases consistent with his/her own interpretation of the law, sometimes, in opposition to what others think or desire in like matters. On Justice Natarajan (former Supreme Court Judge) , she said he demonstrated his legal acumen and deep wisdom in his judgments and by way of his contributions to the salient fourteen Constitution Benches he was a member of. His commitment to law as a tool for justice and respect for the Constitution shone in his judgment in Begum Subanu alias Saira Banu and Another vs A M Abdul Gafoor, (1987). Justice Natarajan held that the right of a Muslim husband to a polygamous marriage cannot act as a bar on operation of Section 125 of the CrPC 1973. Justice P Sathasivam, former Chief Justice of India, former judges of the apex court, sitting and retired judges of the Madras High Court, Advocate General, P S Raman and members of the bar took part. Kochi, Nov 17 (PTI) Leader of Opposition in Kerala assembly, V D Satheesan launched a scathing attack on the Sangh Parivar over the Munambam land dispute on Sunday, asserting that the Congress-led UDF will defeat its attempts to foster religious division in the state with the backing of the Left government. Addressing a press conference, he said, "UDF leaders will soon meet with leaders of various communities to expose the Sangh Parivar's attempts, immediately after the by-elections." The Congress leader added that the UDF will firmly resist and thwart any attempts to create religious divisions among the people. He alleged that the BJP government at the Centre and in Manipur are providing all assistance for burning churches and igniting riots there. "The Christian community will realise that the spokespersons of these people are now visiting their homes, attempting to widen divisions on a larger scale ahead of the elections." Accusing the LDF government on the issue, the LoP stated that the government is aiding divisive forces by unnecessarily delaying action on the Munambam land dispute issue. "It is deeply unfortunate that the government has neither registered cases nor initiated legal action against those attempting to foster communal divisions," he said. Referring to dissident BJP leader Sandeep Varier joining his party, Satheesan claimed that the CPI(M) was more unsettled than the saffron party over the recent development. "While CPI(M) leaders, including its state secretary, previously stated they would welcome him if he left his former political ideology, they are now making baseless allegations after he joined Congress," he added. He also alleged that the Chevayur Co-operative Bank election in Kozhikode was marked by an erosion of democratic principles. Satheesan said that the UDF would not support government initiatives related to the states cooperative sector, demanding that the Chief Minister and the Minister for Cooperation apologise for the incidents at the Chevayur bank. "21 co-operative banks in Pathanamthitta district under the control of UDF were wrested illegally like this and we will face the issue politically and legally," he added. New Delhi, Nov 17 (PTI) The women employees of Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) staged a protest at the Sarojini Nagar depot on Sunday demanding equal pay, improved working conditions, and permanent job guarantee. Male DTC staff also took part in the demonstration claiming growing dissatisfaction within the workforce. The protest was led by the female employees at the recently inaugurated all-women 'Sakhi Depot' in Sarojini Nagar, the first in the country to be fully managed and operated by women. The employees voiced their concerns by reportedly refusing to allow buses to leave the depot until their demands were heard, which included fixed salary, permanent job opportunity and better working conditions. They also cited the challenges of commuting long distances for early morning shifts and lack of job security. In a show of solidarity, a number of male DTC staff also joined the protest and held a meeting near the Sarojini Nagar depot, supporting the call for fair wages and job regularisation. The protest witnessed high-pitched sloganeering as DTC employees from different depots across Delhi joined the demonstration in large numbers. The Delhi government inaugurated the 'Sakhi Depot' on Saturday, intending to operate 70 buses, including 40 air-conditioned and 30 non-AC buses, covering 17 routes across the national capital. At Israels Ben Gurion International Airport, more than a year of war has taken its toll. Global airlines have canceled flights, gates are empty and pictures of hostages still held in the Gaza Strip guide the few arriving passengers to baggage claim. But one check-in desk remains flush with travelers: the one serving flights to the United Arab Emirates, which have kept up a bridge for Israelis to the outside world throughout the war. The Emirati flights, in addition to bolstering the airlines bottom line, have shined a light on the countries burgeoning ties which have survived the wars raging across the Middle East and could be further strengthened as U.S. President-elect Donald Trump prepares to return to office. Its a political and economic statement, said Joshua Teitelbaum, a professor of Middle Eastern studies at Israels Bar-Ilan University. They are the main foreign airlines that continue to fly. Since the wars began with Hamas initial Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel, many international airlines have halted, restarted and halted again their flights into Israels main gateway to the rest of the world. The concern is real for the carriers, who remember the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 over Ukraine 10 years ago and Iran shooting down Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 after takeoff from Tehran in 2020. But FlyDubai, the sister airline to the long-haul carrier Emirates, has kept up multiple flights daily and kept Israel connected to the wider world even as its other low-cost competitors have stopped flights. Abu Dhabis Etihad has continued its flights as well. While maintaining the flight schedule remains politically important for the UAE after its 2020 diplomatic recognition of Israel, it also provided a further shot in the arm for revenues particularly for FlyDubai. Since the wars started, international carriers such as Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines Inc., Germanys Lufthansa and other major airlines halted their flights. Some resumed, only to stop again after Irans Oct. 1 ballistic missile attack on Israel and Israels Oct. 26 retaliatory strike on the Islamic Republic. Tehran has threatened to strike Israel again. Thats brought major business to Israels national carrier El Al, which had struggled in the coronavirus pandemic and prior years. The airline posted its best-ever half-year results this year, recording a $227 million profit as compared to $58 million profit in the same period last year. El Al stock has risen by as much 200% over the last year, as compared to a 29% rise in the wider Tel Aviv 125 stock market index. El Al, however, lacks the routes and connections of major international carriers. Low-cost carriers as well have stopped flying into Israel during periods of the war, sending the price of El Al tickets ever higher. Passenger numbers through Ben Gurion halved compared to the same period the year before, El Al said in its second-quarter financial results. However, FlyDubai has kept flying. The carrier has operated over 1,800 flights to Israel since October last year, cancelling only 77 flights overall, according to Cirium, an aviation analytics company. In September alone, it flew over 200 flights. As a line snaked toward the FlyDubai check-in counters at Ben Gurion Airport, UAE-bound Motti Eis said the flights were a symbol that the Emirates countries decided to keep the peace. FlyDubai declined to answer questions from The Associated Press about the flights. Etihad, the flag carrier for Abu Dhabi, has kept flying into Tel Aviv, but the number of its flights has been dwarfed by FlyDubai. FlyDubai had 3.6% market share at Ben Gurion, compared to El Als 43.2% in the second half of 2024. However, at least two of the foreign low-cost airlines with greater market, Wizz Air and Blue Bird, stopped flying for extended periods this year. Etihad said it maintains a close watch on the situation in the region, but continues its daily flights to and from Tel Aviv. Ben Gurion International Airport remains open, employing best practices in safety and security practices, enabling Etihad and other airlines to provide essential air connectivity as long as it is secure to do so, the airline said in a statement. But beyond the financial impact, the decision also takes root in the UAEs decision to recognize Israel in 2020, under agreements brokered by then President Trump known as the Abraham Accords. While Abu Dhabi has repeatedly expressed concern and outrage as Israels conduct during the wars, Israels Consulate in Dubai and Embassy remain open in the country. And while Dubai broadly speaking remains focused on business in the country, Abu Dhabis focus long has been on its geopolitical aims which since the 2011 Arab Spring have been squarely focused on challenging Islamist movements, and those who back them, in the wider region. The UAE, a hereditary autocracy, long has viewed those groups as serious challenges to its power. The Emirati government, in response to questions from the AP over the flights, sent a story published by its state-run WAM news agency about its participation in a Nov. 1 conference in Riyadh in support of a two-state solution to the decadeslong Israel-Palestinian crisis. The UAE has called repeatedly for a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip, along with the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners. However, likely given the wider anger in the Arab world over Israels devastating militant campaign in Gaza, Dubai International Airport no longer advertises on its electronic billboard the location of the check-in for Tel Aviv. It sits in a distant corner of one of the airports terminals, next to a Dubai police stand. Private security guards also keep watch over the line, while individuals who appeared to be undercover police officers watched the gate, a higher level of security than normally noticed at the airport. But in the lines, Hebrew and Arabic can be heard and those traveling routinely have their blue-backed Israeli passports out in their hands. Its just a symbol of the UAEs commitment to the relationship, said Dina Esfandiary, a senior advisor on the Middle East at the International Crisis Group, a think tank. No matter what happens, no matter where the war goes, no matter how much Israel flouts international law, the UAE has decided that this is a step they took, that the relationship remains beneficial to them. (AP) As President-elect Donald Trump moves to set up a more forceful presidency than in his first term, he is choosing loyalists for his Cabinet and considering a tool known as recess appointments to skip over Senate confirmations for even some of the most powerful positions in U.S. government. Trump over the weekend demanded that Republican leaders in the Senate, who will hold a majority in the chamber next year, agree to allow recess appointments. It would be a significant shift in power away from the Senate, but Trump is returning to Washington with almost total support from his party, including the more traditional Republicans who still hold sway in the chamber. Their commitment, however, is being tested now that Trump has turned to picked people outside the Republican Party mainstream like former Reps. Matt Gaetz of Florida and Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii for top positions. It quickly became apparent Wednesday that figures like Gaetz, who Trump announced as his choice for attorney general, may struggle to gain majority support from the Senate, even though Republicans will enjoy a 53-seat majority. But that may not matter if Trump is able to use recess appointments. How do recess appointments work? The Senate, as set up by the U.S. Constitution, holds an important role in confirming or rejecting high-level officials like Cabinet positions, judges and ambassadors. Its part of the governments checks and balances that ensures the president does not get to unilaterally rule. However, there is a clause in the Constitution that allows presidents to fill out their administrations while the Senate is in recess. During the nations early history, Congress would take months-long breaks from Washington, and presidents could use recess appointments to avoid having an important job go unfilled. But more recently, the process of recess appointments has been featured in partisan fights with the president. President Bill Clinton made 139 recess appointments and President George W. Bush made 171, though neither used the process for top-level Cabinet positions, according to the Congressional Research Service. President Barack Obama tried to continue the practice, using it 32 times, but a 2014 Supreme Court ruling put a check on the presidents power to make recess appointments. The Supreme Court unanimously ruled that the Senate has to recess or adjourn for 10 days before a president can make unilateral appointments. Thats resulted in a practice where the Senate even during weeks-long breaks from Washington still holds pro-forma sessions where one senator opens and closes the chamber, but no legislative business is conducted. The House also holds some power over recess appointments by refusing to allow the Senate to adjourn. Why is Trump demanding recess appointments? Trump envisions becoming a president who is much stronger and forceful than perhaps any before him. While still president in 2020, Trump threatened to use recess appointments after Democrats had slowed the Senate from confirming his nominees. He threatened to use a presidential power in the Constitution to adjourn both chambers of Congress on extraordinary occasions and when there is a disagreement between the House and Senate on adjourning. When Trump becomes president again next year, he will be working with Republicans who hold a majority in the House and Senate and are promising to back his agenda. But the demand for recess appointments allows Trump to flex his political power and potentially ram through even the most controversial choices for his administration. Sen. John Thune, who was elected as the next Senate majority leader this week, is pledging to keep an aggressive schedule until his nominees are confirmed. Thune, a South Dakota Republican, is also not taking recess appointments off the table. To allow Trump to make the appointments, Republican senators would have to pass a motion of adjournment with a simple majority vote, though Democrats would likely do everything in their power to prevent it. It is also not clear if such a move would be fully supported by GOP senators. Would recess appointments work? Its not clear. The announcements of Gaetz and Gabbard this week sputtered the Senate into life, with some GOP senators issuing reminders of the importance of their advise and consent role in choosing the presidents Cabinet. Republican Sen. John Cornyn, who just days before suggested he may be open to allowing Trump to make recess appointments as he ran unsuccessfully for Senate leader, told reporters Thursday, Obviously, I dont think we should be circumventing the Senates responsibilities, but I think its premature to be talking about recess appointments right now. Still, there are very few, if any, Republicans remaining who dare openly defy Trump. GOP senators are planning to begin hearings on Trumps Cabinet nominees as soon as the new Congress begins on Jan. 3. (AP) Headlines from the satirical website the Onion on Thursday: New Dating Site Suggests People You Already Know But Thought You Were Too Good For. Trump Boys Have Slap Fight Over Who Gets to Run Foreign Policy Meetings. Heres Why I Decided to Buy Infowars. Only one has the ring of truth. Sort of. The bylined author of the Infowars article, Bryce P. Tetraeder, doesnt actually exist. And the Onion doesnt plan to invest in business school scholarships for promising cult leaders. But the Onions purchase of Alex Jones conspiracy-theory-saturated media empire at a bankruptcy auction tied to lawsuits by the families of Sandy Hook shooting victims is very real an effort to fight falsehoods with funny and a whod-have-thunk-it development in an already somewhat unbelievable year. An element of doubt was added late Thursday when the judge in Jones bankruptcy case ordered a hearing for next week on how the auction was conducted. On Thursday, The Onion immediately shut down Infowars and said it plans to relaunch it in January as a parody of conspiracy theorists. Our goal in a couple of years is for people to think of Infowars as the funniest and dumbest website that exists, said Ben Collins, the Onions CEO. It was previously the dumbest website that exists. Its the end at least for now of a long chapter The purchase, for an undisclosed sum, was backed by Sandy Hook families, who were awarded nearly $1.5 billion in lawsuits against Jones for his false claims that the 2012 shootings at a Connecticut elementary school were a hoax. The new Infowars will be a satire of theories Jones advanced, which themselves were so absurd that they could have seemed satirical if they hadnt caused real-life harm. The development ends one tentacle of a loose network of podcasters, TikTok influencers and others whose content keeps people perpetually provoked and enraged, Collins said. He called Jones one small character in a universe of fear-based media. Theyve had a free pass to this point and we dont think thats fair, he said. At the very least, he said, the Onion hopes to return some fun to the Internet to offset years of doomscrolling. In Collins, who once covered misinformation for NBC News, the new venture has a leader uniquely suited to what is being attempted, said Dale Beran, who made this years Netflix documentary, The Anti-Social Network, about the topic. The Onion, founded as a newspaper in 1988, has gone through several ownership changes and was purchased earlier this year by a group that includes Jeff Lawson, co-founder of the software company Twilio. Since then, Beran said, it feels like there is new life breathed into it. Done well, a satirical site on conspiracy theories and those who traffic in them could meet a historical moment much like comedian Stephen Colbert did when his Comedy Central show, The Colbert Report, mocked pompous conservative television talk show hosts a decade and more ago. And what will happen when some of Jones casual fans who didnt follow the news of the bankruptcy auction log on to Infowars in a few months only to find the Onions new creation? Probably not much, said Beran, who suggested its unlikely theres much overlap between people attracted by conspiracy theories and those who want to mock them. Conspiracy theories abound about the fate of conspiracy theories Indeed, conspiracy theories about the Onions purchase of Infowars began popping up online only hours after it was announced. Theres no chance this outlet which hasnt been relevant in years was able to afford this purchase on their own. Who was really behind this? the website Zeee Media, which bills itself as one of the most trusted, uncensored sources of information in Australia, posted on X. Jones himself hurriedly posted a video aimed at his fans on Thursday. This is a total attack on free speech, he said. The deep state is completely out of control. There is an impact any time a prominent website that traffics in misinformation is shut down. Still, the business model of reaching people who want to be enraged is still viable, Beran said. Another expert in misinformation suggested Jones will quickly move on, and his fans will move with him. As long as there are people willing to tune in, he will find new outlets, said Yotam Ophir, head of the Media Effects, Misinformation and Extremism Lab at the University of Buffalo. If anything, the Onion trolling and the court cases against him will just make some of his most dedicated fans even more sure of his righteousness, seeing him as a martyr for free speech. At the very least, the Onion purchase offered a moment of zen for liberals who have had a pretty rough week or so following Donald Trumps election victory and the GOP sweep in Congress. This is bad karma turned good, wrote Timothy W. Larson, who describes himself on X as a unabashed progressive. I love it. (AP) After another election cycle that brought few bright spots for Nebraska Democrats, some former party officials have escalated their criticism of the state party's leader, Jane Kleeb, calling on her to step aside. In interviews with the Journal Star, two former chairs of the Nebraska Democratic Party Vince Powers, who led the party from 2012 to 2016, and former U.S. Attorney for Nebraska Tom Monaghan, who was chair from 1985 to 1989 called last week for Kleeb to step down from the post she has held since 2016. The two former party leaders were joined in their calls for change by Bud Pettigrew, who served as the Nebraska Democratic Party's chair of chairs from 2008 to 2022, working alongside Kleeb for six years before resigning his position after that year's midterms punctuated his lack of confidence in the party's direction. The calls for change come as the Democratic Party continues to shrink in Nebraska, where there are fewer registered Democrats now than there have been in any general election year since at least the 1960s. Republicans, meanwhile, have maintained their hold on statewide offices, all five of the state's congressional seats and captured a filibuster-proof majority in the Legislature. "Some people need to be fired," said Pettigrew, who once chaired the Cherry County Democratic Party and now lives in Hastings. "Maybe Jane might need to step down. She may say, Hey, maybe its time for fresh blood. I know a lot of people are saying that. They are telling me that." "The last few days, Ive had phone calls from people as far west as Bayard, as far north as Valentine, people in Omaha and Lincoln, (saying), 'Weve had enough. Its not working,'" Pettigrew said in a phone interview Tuesday. "And I agree. Its not working. Its time for fresh blood. In an interview, Kleeb, an activist who rose to prominence in the 2010s as Nebraska's leading opponent to the Keystone XL Pipeline, largely dismissed criticism of her stewardship of the state's Democratic Party, which she has chaired as a volunteer since 2016 winning reelection by votes at party conventions in 2018, 2020 and 2022. She pointed to the state party's record fundraising this year, a substantial increase in elected Democrats in down-ballot races since she took over in 2016, key wins in tough legislative races this cycle and the delivery of the 2nd Congressional District's "Blue Dot" presidential electoral vote to Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris. Kleeb, who said she still plans to finish out her current term as chair that runs until 2026, acknowledged that "more listening sessions have to happen" between Democrats and state voters and said she "welcome(s) fair criticism." But Kleeb contended her most vocal critics like Powers, Monaghan and former U.S. Sen. Bob Kerrey who did not call for Kleeb's resignation but did label the state party "a corrupt organization" under her leadership are "people who've always hated me and always have an ax to grind against me and who (have) never, ever recognized the work that we've done." "And as a woman, it's increasingly obvious," Kleeb said, adding: "That's how it is. And no matter how many conversations I've had to try to have with those critics, they don't want me to be successful." Criticism of Kleeb is far from universal among Nebraska Democrats or former party leaders. Vic Covalt, who led the party from 2008 to 2012, said he doesn't "fault Nebraska's (party) leadership at all" for this year's disappointing election cycle, adding that Kleeb "does her best, but there isn't much to work with." Randy Fair, the chair of the Keith County Democratic Party and the state party's 3rd Congressional District chair, said "some of the criticism of her is really misplaced." A Democrat who unseated a GOP incumbent in 2010 to become the top prosecutor in a county where more than 68% of voters are Republicans, Fair said he had never heard from anyone at the state party until Kleeb came along in 2016, spurring him to become an active party member. "I think that Jane Kleeb and the current Nebraska Democratic Party is much more focused on the blue-collar, the working class, making inroads with everybody in the state," said Fair, who is thought to be the only Democratic county attorney in Nebraska. But critics point to high-profile instances of a divided state party including the party's vote in March to censure Omaha Sen. Mike McDonnell over his votes in the Legislature for a stricter abortion ban and limits on gender-affirming care in a move that prompted McDonnell to switch parties a month after the censure as evidence for their case. The critics also point to the widening gulf between registered Republicans and Democrats in the state, where Democrats haven't won a statewide race since 2006 and haven't won federal office since 2014, repeatedly failing to unseat GOP Rep. Don Bacon in the 2nd Congressional District even as Democratic presidential candidates prevailed there in 2020 and again this month. "The party is shrinking, and that just means that it's time for a change," said Powers. "I don't think anyone could say the status quo ... is good." Democrats in decline Twenty years ago, 396,764 voters in Nebraska were registered Democrats the high watermark for the party in the state dating back to at least 1972, according to state voter registration archives. Even in 2004, Democrats accounted for less than 35% of voters in Nebraska, but the party's candidates continued to compete with Republicans in statewide races. In 2006, Democratic Sen. Ben Nelson, the state's former governor, won his second term in the U.S. Senate, winning nearly 64% of the vote over wealthy Republican upstart Pete Ricketts, who poured $14.35 million into his own campaign. Democrats haven't won a statewide election since. Ricketts, the state's former governor and Nebraska's junior U.S. Senator, has won three. After the number of registered Democratic voters in Nebraska hovered between 370,000 and 400,000 from 1972 until 2020, the party has hemorrhaged voters in the years since. There are now 337,289 registered Democrats in Nebraska, 33,205 fewer than there were four years ago. Republicans have added 16,470 voters since 2020 and now outnumber Democrats by more than 285,000 voters statewide. Kleeb acknowledged the party has "to get a handle on what's happening with voter registration" but pinned the party's losses in part on Nebraska's Secretary of State's Office, which she said is purging Democrats from state voter rolls at a higher rate than Republicans. The Secretary of State's Office did not provide data on what kind of voters have been removed from state voter rolls in time for publication. "We have documented that we've registered 16,000 new people this cycle, but you would not know that if you look at the raw numbers, because we're barely treading water with the amount of people that are either moving out of state or that are getting purged from voter files," Kleeb said, adding that the party would continue to invest in partisan voter registration moving forward an initiative that Kleeb said donors had declined to fund in prior years. The widening gulf between registered Republicans and Democrats has hardened the party's path to winning statewide races, but even in Nebraska's Democratic strongholds, success has been fleeting. In the Lincoln-centric 1st Congressional District where independent candidate Dan Osborn edged U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer this month by less than 1% in his closer-than-expected loss to the GOP incumbent statewide Democratic challenger Carol Blood lost to Republican Rep. Mike Flood by more than 20 points. Democrats delivered an electoral vote to Harris in Nebraska's 2nd Congressional District through the state's unusual presidential electoral system, but Democratic state Sen. Tony Vargas again fell short of unseating Bacon, the district's Republican congressman who has staved off challenges from Vargas by narrow margins two election cycles in a row. Trouble for Democrats in the 2nd District did not stop at the ballot box this election cycle. In October, the Douglas County Democratic Party filed paperwork with the Federal Election Committee to establish its own federal campaign account separate from the Nebraska Democratic Party's to boost federal candidates, a move that violates the state party's bylaws. In response, Kleeb revoked the county party's access to the state party's VAN system, which is campaign software organizers use to track and inform door-to-door canvassing. The move left the county party in Democrats' biggest Nebraska stronghold without the technology for the last month of the campaign cycle. CJ King, the Douglas County Democratic Party chair, deferred questions on the spat to Kleeb, but said the county party "got along just fine without" the system. Kleeb said the conflict was "purely technical" and the bylaws the county party violated are meant to ensure both parties don't violate shared FEC contributed limits placed on parties. "We have to follow our bylaws," Kleeb said. "I can't just be like, 'Well, it's close to the election.' So what we did was we said, We want to solve this together. If we cant solve this together in the next 30 days, you know that there, of course, has to be repercussions, which means you won't have full VAN access.'" An email obtained by the Journal Star that Kleeb sent King and others in early October suggests the revocation was more immediate. Kleeb told King the Douglas County party's VAN "access will be turned off until the DCDP is in compliance with the bylaws" in an email sent Oct. 9, the same day King filed paperwork to establish the county party's federal committee. The state party has seen its own federal fundraising spike under Kleeb's leadership. In the 2016 election cycle, the Nebraska Democratic Party raised $2.61 million and spent $2.36 million, according to FEC data. This time around, the party raised $4.24 million and spent $3.42 million through Oct. 16. Both figures are sure to increase when the party's campaign finance records for the last 20 days of the race become public. The Blue Dot For Kleeb and other Democratic Party leaders, Harris' victory in Nebraska's 2nd Congressional District marked a bright spot in an otherwise grim election cycle for the party. For critics, the Blue Dot's uncertain future is further evidence in the case against Kleeb. Since 1992, Nebraska has had in place a unusual presidential electoral system that awards a single presidential electoral vote to the winner of each of the states three congressional districts a system that allowed Democratic nominees to pick up one of the state's five electoral votes in 2008, 2020 and again this year. Maine is the only other state that allows its electoral votes to be split between presidential candidates. Conservative state lawmakers in Nebraska's formally nonpartisan Legislature have tried to undo the system repeatedly in the decades since it was established, falling one vote shy of overcoming a filibuster in a close call in 2016. Heading into this year's legislative session, progressive lawmakers maintained 16 seats in the Legislature enough to kill legislation with a filibuster when the group voted in lockstep. But in April, when McDonnell became a Republican a month after the Nebraska Democratic Party had censured him for his conservative social views, the Blue Dot's future seemed in peril. McDonnell was the subject of a national pressure campaign from Republicans urging him to back a switch to a winner-take-all system. In the end, McDonnell refused to bow to the calls from national Republicans and Nebraska's system survived the Donald Trump-backed push for the change. Kleeb said she was opposed to McDonnell's censuring that preceded his party switch but stood with the rank-and-file Democrats who called for it "because thats what I have to do as a chair." "But it was always my advice that we are a big tent party," she said, adding that McDonnell's refusal to back the switch to winner-take-all was a testament to her close relationship with the Omaha lawmaker "and showed a lot of work and ability of me as a chair." Critics cast the episode as an embarrassment for Democrats that served as a microcosm for the party's shrinking ranks. "If you're going into the 3rd District and you behave that way, don't ever expect to win it," said Kerrey, a Democrat who represented Nebraska in the U.S. Senate from 1989 to 2001, adding: "You're never gonna get their attention if you start off by saying, 'I'm going to censure you if you're a committed Catholic.'" "If youre going to try to have the Democratic Party succeed in Nebraska, you cant start off without facing this fact: if it werent for a man you censured, wed have a winner-take-all state," he added. "What do you make of that? Its not for me to decide. Its for the leadership of the Democratic Party in Nebraska to decide. What do you make of the fact that you were saved by the man you censured? The filibuster falls If Democrats hope to retain Nebraska's presidential electoral system for another election cycle, they will once again have to turn to Republican state lawmakers for their rescue. Democrats won tough legislative races this month, according to unofficial results, unseating conservative Sen. Ray Aguilar of Grand Island in District 35 while appearing to eke out a win in District 3, where Democrat Anthony Rountree leads conservative Felix Ungerman by less than 2%. Democrats also won back the Omaha seat McDonnell vacated at the end of his second term but Republicans captured the District 15 seat vacated by term-limited Democratic Sen. Lynne Walz of Fremont and unseated Democratic Sen. Jen Day of Gretna, maintaining the filibuster-proof majority they first captured when McDonnell switched parties in April. Progressives came within 1,000 votes of retaining Day's seat and flipping two others, including in District 39, where the Democrat-backed nonpartisan Allison Heimes lost by less than 5 points in her bid to replace term-limited Republican Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn. In District 45, Democrat Sarah Centineo fell 870 votes short of unseating conservative Sen. Rita Sanders of Bellevue in a race where Centineo faced a massive fundraising gap with little support from the Nebraska Democratic Party. Sanders outraised Centineo by more than $70,000. The Democratic Party contributed $1,500 to the Democrat's campaign. "I had a very close race, and I had very little support from the state party," Centineo said at a virtual meeting the party hosted Saturday to evaluate the election cycle. "It's not that y'all were talking to me. Nobody showed up at anything. (It) was very disappointing." Kleeb acknowledged in the meeting that Centineo's race is one the state party is "kicking ourselves in." "Sarah was one of our strongest recruits, our strongest candidates, and we did not invest enough resources into her race," Kleeb said. The party's lack of support for Centineo was among other perplexing investments Democrats did and did not make in legislative races. The state party contributed $32,238 to Rountree, who garnered the most support from the state party among legislative candidates this cycle en route to her narrow win in a district that leans conservative, according to campaign finance records. But as the party gave less than $10,000 to the likes of Centineo, Heimes, Day and nonpartisan progressive Nicki Behmer Popp all of whom squared off against conservatives in relatively close races the party poured $29,139 into Democrat Ashlei Spivey's race against Nick Batter, a progressive nonpartisan backed by some Democrats like Kerrey, in District 13. The party also contributed $27,858 to Michelle Smith, who lost to a conservative by nearly 35 points in District 33, a Republican fortress that includes Hastings, where Kleeb lives. The state party also gave $19,144 to Dunixi Guereca, who prevailed in his District 7 race against another Democrat, Tim Pendrell, who recieved $1,000 from the party. Guereca also received $10,000 from Bold Alliance, the environmental nonprofit run by Kleeb. Among legislative candidates, Bold Alliance contributed the most to Spivey and Omaha Sen. Terrell McKinney, an employee of the nonprofit who ultimately ran unopposed for reelection in District 11. The nonprofit contributed more than $15,000 to both campaigns. In District 13, Kleeb said "it was very important for us to keep that seat for a Democrat, not an independent" and noted that Spivey, an Omaha nonprofit executive, is "a Black woman who is highly qualified to be in the Legislature." "And, quite frankly, to see the racism and sexism of some donors (and) community leaders who would tell us that they didn't think Ashlei was qualified or ready to be a state senator was shocking, and pissed us off as a party," she said. "And so we wanted to make sure that Ashlei had the resources to win." The Pentagons latest report on UFOs has revealed hundreds of new reports of unidentified and unexplained aerial phenomena but no indications suggesting an extraterrestrial origin. The review includes hundreds of cases of misidentified balloons, birds and satellites as well as some that defy easy explanation, such as a near-miss between a commercial airliner and a mysterious object off the coast of New York. While it isnt likely to settle any debates over the existence of alien life, the report reflects heightened public interest in the topic and the governments efforts to provide some answers. Its publication comes a day after House lawmakers called for greater government transparency during a hearing on unidentified anomalous phenomena, or UAPs the governments term for UFOs. Federal efforts to study and identify UAPs have focused on potential threats to national security or air safety and not their science fiction aspects. Officials at the Pentagon office created in 2022 to track UAPs, known as the All-Domain Anomaly Resolution Office, or AARO, have said theres no indication any of the cases they looked into have unearthly origins. It is important to underscore that, to date, AARO has discovered no evidence of extraterrestrial beings, activity, or technology, the authors of the report wrote. The Pentagons review covered 757 cases from around the world that were reported to U.S. authorities from May 1, 2023, to June 1, 2024. The total includes 272 incidents that occurred before that time period but had not been previously reported. The great majority of the reported incidents occurred in airspace, but 49 occurred at altitudes estimated to be at least 100 kilometers (62 miles), which is considered space. None occurred underwater. Reporting witnesses included commercial and military pilots as well as ground-based observers. Investigators found explanations for nearly 300 of the incidents. In many cases, the unknown objects were found to be balloons, birds, aircraft, drones or satellites. According to the report, Elon Musks Starlink satellite system is one increasingly common source as people mistake chains of satellites for UFOs. Hundreds of other cases remain unexplained, though the reports authors stressed that is often because there isnt enough information to draw firm conclusions. No injuries or crashes were reported in any of the incidents, though a commercial flight crew reported one near miss with a cylindrical object while flying over the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of New York. That incident remains under investigation. In three other cases, military air crews reported being followed or shadowed by unidentified aircraft, though investigators could find no evidence to link the activity to a foreign power. For witnesses who provided visual descriptions, unidentified lights or round, spherical or orb-shaped objects were commonly reported. Other reports included a witness who reported a jellyfish with flashing lights. During Wednesdays hearing on UAPs, lawmakers heard testimony from several expert witnesses who have studied the phenomena, including two former military officers. The discussion included fanciful questions about alien intelligence and military research using alien technology as well as concerns that foreign powers may be using secret aircraft to spy on U.S. military installations. Lawmakers said the many questions about UAPs show the need for the government to closely study the issue and share those findings with Americans. There is something out there, said Republican Rep. Andy Ogles of Tennessee. The question is: Is it ours, is it someone elses, or is it otherworldly? (AP) Patrons at Murphs Tavern are toasting not just Donald Trumps return to the presidency but the fact that he carried their northern New Jersey county, a longtime Democratic stronghold in the shadow of New York City. To Maria Russo, the woman pouring the drinks, the reasons behind Trumps win were as clear in the runup to the election as the shot glasses lined up on the high-top tables. A mother raising two kids on her own in Passaic County on a barkeeps income, she saw it not just in light of her own situation but those of the people around her. Anybody can see whats going on, you know? The prices of everything. And me being a single mom? she said. I notice that when I go shopping just like everybody else does. Although Trumps win once again reflected a deep political divide across the United States, he made inroads in surprising places. From the suburbs of New Jersey to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortezs New York City congressional district to reliably liberal Hawaii, Trump gained ground even as support for Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, dropped off. AP VoteCast, a far-reaching survey of more than 120,000 voters nationwide, found that Trump made substantial gains among Black and Latino men, younger voters, and nonwhite voters without a college degree, compared with his 2020 performance. Common themes emerged in the AP VoteCast data. Voters were most likely to see the economy and immigration as top issues facing the country. More voters said their familys financial situation was falling behind, compared with 2020. When they voted, Trump supporters were thinking about high prices for gas, groceries and other goods and the situation at the U.S.-Mexico border. Even in Hawaii, dominated by Democrats since the 1950s when labor unions organized sugar and pineapple plantation workers who built the states middle class, Republicans had commanding victories. In West Oahu, for example, where many plantations have given way to suburban development, school teacher Julie Reyes Oda, a Republican, flipped one state House district in the heavily blue-collar, working-class town of Ewa Beach. In the district next door, state Rep. Diamond Garcia held on to a seat he turned Republican two years ago. Democrats still control supermajorities in both chambers, but the GOPs nine House and three Senate seats are the most the partys had in the Legislature since 2004. Newly elected Republican state Sen. Samantha DeCorte said voters in her Waianae district west of Honolulu have long been frustrated by a lack of resources for basic needs such as public safety. Residents feel like they have to look over their shoulders when they are pumping gas, DeCorte said. They dont want to go to the grocery store at night because they have to walk back to their car in the parking lot, she said. Economic concerns, including the high cost of housing, may have figured prominently in the thinking of some Hawaii voters. On an island where the median cost of a single-family home tops $1.1 million, many people, including large numbers of Native Hawaiians, have been forced to move to the continental U.S. In New Jersey, AP VoteCast showed that Trump grew his support among nonwhite suburban voters and younger women, in addition to the demographic swings that showed up nationally. In New York, the survey showed especially large movement toward Trump among nonwhite men without a college education, although a majority of that group still supported Harris, the vice president. About half of New Jersey voters said Trump would better handle the economy, according to AP VoteCast, while about one-third said this about Harris, giving him a slightly bigger advantage on the issue there compared with national numbers. Few places better demonstrated Trumps strength in traditionally blue areas than Passaic County, where Trump became the first Republican presidential candidate to carry the county in more than three decades. Interviews with voters and experts suggest Trumps hammering on the economy influenced how people voted or whether they stayed home. Those people taking the subway into Manhattan, they live in a very different world than those people who live in Manhattan, said Richard F. Bensel, a political historian at Cornell University. They live in very different worlds in terms of the pressures that they feel, challenges that they feel in life, and they dont want to be preached to. Sebastian Giraldo, a member of the Air Force stationed in Del Rio, Texas, who was home in Queens on leave recently, said it was a no brainer to vote for Trump despite having supported Democrat Joe Biden four years ago. Just the current trajectory of the United States these last four years have obviously been downhill, he said. I mean, for everybody, I think its been harder to live. The grocery shopping, buying clothes and gasoline. Just living. Ramon Ramirez-Baez, a 66-year-old writer and community activist in the Queens borough of New York, said he voted for Trump and encouraged others to do so despite being a registered Democrat who had voted for Democrats in the past four presidential elections and even ran unsuccessfully for the Legislature as a Democrat. The native of the Dominican Republic, who came to Queens more than three decades ago, blamed Biden administration immigration policies for the explosion of prostitution, illegal brothels and unlicensed food carts that have bedeviled his neighborhood in recent years. The White Houses position on the war in Gaza peeled away some Muslim voters in key swing states such as Michigan, and it cost them elsewhere, too. Selaedin Maksut, executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations in New Jersey, said he voted for Green Party candidate Jill Stein over Harris, though he backed other Democrats. Its a protest vote, he said. Were not going to just give you our vote. In New Jersey, U.S. Rep. Andy Kim, who previously captured a House district claimed by Trump in 2020, carried Passaic County in his winning Senate race. It shows, he said in an interview, that people see local and state issues differently than national ones. He said voters have told him they appreciate his focus on broken politics. If these are people who are distrusting of government, I think my message is saying, like, look I am also frustrated with how things are happening. Ocasio-Cortez, like Kim, invited split-ticket voters to weigh in on social media about how they could back both Trump and her. That resonated across the Hudson River in New Jersey, where John Coiro, a patron at Murphs and a Trump supporter, said he respected her for asking the question. Trumps performance could force a reckoning among Democrats in places where they are accustomed to winning regularly. Ralph Caputo, a former state legislator from northern New Jersey, said Trump, unlike Democrats, connected with different groups of voters. Trump was sharper, too, Caputo said, because he had been tested in the primaries, something Harris did not face because of Bidens late withdrawal from the race in July. Those days are over where you just put somebody up for election and think theyre going to win because theyre on a Democratic ballot, Caputo said. They cant win automatically. (AP) Conservative lawmakers in the Polish parliament exulted at Donald Trumps victory, standing and applauding while they chanted his name. The prospect of a second Trump term has excited people on the populist right across Central Europe who share his anti-immigrant views and contempt for international organizations. But many others in a region near the war in Ukraine are afraid. They worry Trump could abandon Ukraine and force Kyiv into a deal that ends up emboldening Russia further, or unwind the U.S. military presence in Europe. The change in Washington means Europe will have to invest more in its security and defense rather than relying on the American protective shield as it has done for decades, argues Micha Baranowski, managing director of Warsaw-based GMF East, part of the German Marshall Fund think tank. We Europeans Poles and French and Brits and preferably Germany as well need to step up, Baranowski said. Only by stepping up do we have a chance to keep the worst case scenarios from happening, both a bad deal in Ukraine and perhaps a lowering of U.S. engagement in Europe. Poland, the Baltic states and other nations across Central and Eastern Europe were under Moscows control during the Cold War. When that era ended in 1989, it freed them to turn to the West. They never want to return to being satellites of Moscow. NATO members now, they worry that Trump in his second term could end a decades-long commitment to securing the peace in Europe. Just this week, a missile defense base in northern Poland was inaugurated the fruit of years of planning by Republican and Democratic administrations. Polish officials expressed hopes that it was a sign that a bipartisan U.S. commitment to the region would endure. The whole world will see clearly that this is not Russias sphere of interest anymore, Polish President Andrzej Duda declared. Trump has a long history of denigrating NATO, and former administration officials say he repeatedly threatened to withdraw the U.S. from the alliance. His allies have described that as bluster or tough negotiating tactics that have pushed other European allies to take more responsibility, and argue that Trump didnt abandon NATO. The change in Washington has in just a few days changed the dynamic of Polands presidential campaign before an election next spring. Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski, a former defense minister with ties in Washington, entered the running to be the candidate for centrist Prime Minister Donald Tusks party, challenging the longtime favorite, Warsaw Mayor Rafa Trzaskowski. Sikorski argues that his experience makes him the better choice for the times. His opponents argue that the anti-Trump views of his wife, the American writer Anne Applebaum, could create complications with Trumps upcoming administration. The region is now holding its collective breath to see what a second Trump presidency will bring. Officials in Poland and the Baltic states have been stressing their high defense spending relative to their overall economic output in their congratulatory messages to Trump. Kersti Kaljulaid, who was Estonias president during Trumps first term, told the Estonian public broadcaster ERR that Estonians, Poles and others in Eastern Europe found ways to reach Trump before, and I think that this skill is something that we still have today. All are now watching to see if Trump will make a deal with Russia to end the war in Ukraine, as he has promised. It is a cause of existential importance, because any deal is expected to shape security in the region in profound ways in the years and decades to come. The biggest fear would be a deal that gives Russia significant Ukrainian territory, rewarding President Vladimir Putins violation of international law and allowing Moscow to rebuild its military strength. Polands Tusk has stressed that no deal should be made over the heads of Ukraine and countries in the region that will be affected. There is no doubt that the new political landscape is a serious challenge for everyone, Tusk said last week. Tusk congratulated Trump last week and is striking a conciliatory tone after having been critical in the past of a position seen by most Poles as overly friendly to Putin. Duda, a conservative who has long admired Trump, said Wednesday that he doesnt believe that Trump would abandon Ukraine after U.S. taxpayers have already invested huge amounts in Ukraines defense. Trump is a winner, Duda said. I cannot imagine that he would allow Russia to destroy Ukraine. Trumps win energized Poles at an Independence Day march on Monday organized by nationalist groups that drew tens of thousands of participants. Some there believed Trumps friendly stance toward Russia could help end the war in Ukraine. If hes pro-Russian and that means peace in the world, I think its OK, said Adrian Golik, a 23-year-old university student who joined the march with his brother and parents. All have dual Polish-U.S. citizenship and cast their votes for Trump in Illinois. The leaders of Hungary and Slovakia both seen as friendly to Trump and Putin believe Ukraine has already lost the fight and shouldnt keep getting Western military aid. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who although a leftist is known for his pro-Russian and anti-American views, welcomed Trumps victory as a defeat of liberal and progressivist ideas. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has called Trump the man of peace, and last week predicted that the incoming administration would cease U.S. support for Ukraine as it fights Russias full-scale invasion. One of the key messages of this election is that Europe needs to grow up geopolitically and do it quickly, and that the era of security outsourcing is over, said Baranowski, the analyst. The stakes are very high Europe can have influence if we pull it together and if we step up. (AP) Over the past two weeks, the political landscape around the negotiations for a cease-fire in Gaza have undergone a dramatic transformation. The American elections, the firing of Israels popular defense minister, Qatars decision to suspend its mediation, and the ongoing war in Lebanon all seem to have pushed the possibility for a cease-fire in Gaza further away than it has been in more than a year of conflict. Still, some families of the dozens of hostages who remain captive in Gaza are desperately hoping the changes will reignite momentum to bring their loved ones home though the impact of Donald Trump returning to the White House and a hard-line new defense minister in Israel remains unknown. I think maybe there is new hope, said Varda Ben Baruch, the grandmother of Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander, 20, a soldier kidnapped from his base on the Gaza border during the Hamas attack on Oct. 7, 2023. Alexanders parents, Adi and Yael Alexander, who live in New Jersey, met this week with Trump and President Joe Biden in Washington and pleaded with them to work together to bring all the hostages home in a single deal. As a grandmother, I say, cooperate Trump wants peace in this region, Biden has always said he wants to release the hostages, so work together and do something important for the lives of human beings, Ben Baruch said. She said neither leader offered specific details or plans for releasing the hostages or restarting negotiations for a Gaza cease-fire. Talks have hit a wall in recent months, largely over Hamas demands for guarantees that a full hostage release will bring an end to Israels campaign in Gaza and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus vows to continue fighting until Hamas is crushed and unable to rearm. Were not involved in politics, not American and not Israeli, the families are above politics, we just want our loved ones home, she said. Edan was kidnapped because he was Jewish, not because he voted for a certain party. More than 250 people were kidnapped and 1,200 killed when Hamas terrorists burst across the border and carried out a bloody attack on southern Israeli communities. As terrorists attacked on the morning of Oct. 7, Edan Alexander, then 19, was able to send a quick message to his mother amid the intense fighting around his base. He told her that despite having shrapnel embedded in his helmet from the explosions, he had managed to get to a protected area. After 7 a.m., his family lost contact. Alexander was considered missing as the family desperately searched hospitals for him. After five days, friends recognized him in a video of Hamas terrorists capturing soldiers. The family was happy: He was alive, Ben Baruch said. But we didnt understand what we were entering into, what is still happening now. When a week-long cease-fire last November brought the release of 105 hostages in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners, some of the freed hostages said they had seen Alexander in captivity. Ben Baruch said they told her Alexander kept his cool, encouraging them that everyone would be released soon. Ben Baruch said she was disheartened when Netanyahu last week fired Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, who she said had consistently reassured the families that the hostages were at the top of his agenda. I felt he was a partner, she said. Gallant was replaced by a Netanyahu loyalist who has urged a tough line against Hamas. A mass protest movement urging the government to reach a hostage deal has shown signs of weariness, and hostage families have struggled to keep their campaign in the headlines. A delegation of former hostages and their relatives met with the pope on Thursday and expressed hope the incoming and outgoing American administrations would bring their loved ones home. In Tel Avivs Hostage Square, the headquarters of the protest movement, opinions were mixed on the effect of Trumps election on hostages. I dont think this is good for Israel or the hostages, Im really scared of him, said David Danino, a 45-year-old hi-tech worker from Tel Aviv. He was at Hostages Square with his family, visiting from France, who wanted to pay their respects. Danino noted that Israel had already achieved many of its war goals, including killing Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. They are building us a photo of what is victory, but how is there victory without the hostages? he asked. Others thought Trumps reputation might help the situation. When he decides to do something, he does it, without blinking, and he can create ultimatums, said Orly Vitman, a 54-year-old former special education teacher from the Tel Aviv suburb of Holon. She comes every few months to the square with her daughter to light candles in honor of the hostages. While she was opposed to the firing of Gallant in the middle of the war, she was heartened by Trumps election. We will have the legitimacy and ability to use the full force of what we know how to do, she said. Ben Baruch, a philanthropist and accomplished artist whose modernist sculptures dot the Tel Aviv home where she has lived for 52 years, said she has pushed everything aside in her life to focus on the struggle to bring her grandson home. Her days are filled with meetings, interviews, rallies, protests and communal prayer sessions uniting different groups of Israelis from across the religious spectrum. Its like peoples lives went back to their routine, but ours did not, she said. Theres nothing left to say. All the words have been said. We have heard everything. We have met with everyone. But they are still there. (AP) Iran International television reported that Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the ailing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is poised to assume leadership of Iran after his fathers deathand potentially even during his lifetime. The report claims that Irans Assembly of Experts, a powerful body responsible for selecting the Supreme Leader, held a highly secretive meeting on September 26 to deliberate on Mojtabas succession. According to sources, the meeting was convened at Khameneis personal request, with roughly 60 council members summoned without warning. While the decision to support Mojtabas appointment was ultimately unanimous, insiders allege it was reached under duress. Some members reportedly opposed both the process and the selection itself but were pressured and threatened by representatives of the Supreme Leader to secure their compliance. To avoid potential backlash, the meeting was conducted under stringent secrecy, with members warned of severe consequences if any details were leaked. According to the report, Khamenei feared that public knowledge of the discussion would ignite widespread protests, given the deep economic and social challenges currently facing the Iranian people. Over the past two years, Ayatollah Khamenei has been grooming Mojtaba for leadership, despite his lack of formal political or military experience. Mojtaba has begun playing a prominent role in decision-making, a strategy analysts believe is designed to normalize his leadership and secure his position as a successor. Some sources suggest Khamenei may even transfer power to Mojtaba while still alive to ensure the transition occurs smoothly and under his direct influence. The potential succession has sparked concerns over the stability of the Iranian regime. Critics argue that keeping leadership within the Khamenei family could fuel internal tensions, particularly as Iran grapples with a crumbling economy and widespread discontent. Such a move could be seen as an attempt to consolidate power within a dynasty, undermining the legitimacy of the regime in the eyes of many Iranians. The prospect of Mojtabas rise has also attracted international attention. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently addressed the Iranian people directly, urging them to reject the regime and offering cooperation in stabilizing Irans economy in exchange for peaceful coexistence with Israel. Meanwhile, Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, living in exile, has positioned himself as an alternative leader, promising to help guide Iran toward a democratic future if called upon by the people. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) by Rabbi Yair Hoffman Rav Leib Bakst zatzal (1918-2004) was an Alter Mirrer who was an outstanding Talmid Chochom and gadol who was rosh yeshivah of Yeshivas Beis Yehudah in Detroit. He taught thousands of talmidim, and now, Boruch Hashem, a new sefer on his Chidushei Torah has just been released. I would like to thank Reb Avrohom Applebaum, a father of one of my students for bringing me a copy. Rav Bakst was born in Doltish, Lithuania, to Rabbi Yaakov Yehoshua who perished in the Holocaust hyd. He studied at the Mir Yeshiva in Mir, Poland and later during its exile in Vilna and Shanghai during World War II. He was close to both the Mir Rosh Yeshiva Rav Laizer Yehuda Finkel ztl and also studied under in the Mirs famed Mashgiach Rav Yerucham Leibowitz ztl for six years. In 1946, after the war, he married the daughter of Rav Mordechai Rogov, the author of Ateret Mordechai, who had studied at the Mir and Volozhin yeshivas. From his Mussar shmuessim, his talmidim compiled the sefer Kol Aryeh. While in Shanghai, Rav Bakst suffered a burst appendix and hovered between life and death. Later, after he recovered he reprinted in Shanghai the classic Mussar Sefer Tomer Devorah by the great Tzfas kabbalist Rav Moshe Cordevero. Rav Bakst zatzal was a close friend of one of my Rebbeim, Rav Dovid Kviat zatzal, and I consider it a kavod to be able to present just a glimpse of him to others. The following was culled from the new sefers hakdamah: These chiddushim are mostly from writings found in the Rosh yeshivashouse, besides those that were already printed in various places around the world..After many years of requests regarding the publication of a book with his Torah insights, and after the completion of the work and its arrangement into a proper manuscript, his students will surely guard and preserve our Rosh yeshivas memory of blessed memory. We hope it will be beneficial to the world of Torah study and increase Torah knowledge and its illumination. The Vilna Gaon in his commentary on Mishlei on the pasuk of Shlomo son of David, King of Israel, writes that when someone sees a sefer, they need to know who the author is, for if the author is a great sage, trustworthy in his wisdom, as Rashi was in his books, then in Creation and in Torah etc. Therefore, in the books introduction, it seems appropriate to strive to preserve something of our Rosh yeshivas character traits of blessed memory in a faithful way. At the beginning of our work on the book, one of our Rosh yeshivas close students told us How can you describe our Rosh yeshiva through the publication of a book of his teachings, when whoever says This is him limits him? The Man and His Character Indeed, whoever saw our Rosh yeshiva witnessed a vision of grace and fullness of wisdom and Mussar. Though young in days, he possessed ancient wisdom, like a flowing spring. All who approached holiness desired to be near him and cling to his teachings. In his pure way of life, whether in formal work or casual encounters, peoples souls yearned to draw close and learn from him. He had a remarkable ability to connect with every living being, his ears always attentive to their troubles and hardships. He would absorb their difficulties and provide strength for their burdens. His Teaching Approach The Nature of Learning When Chazal determined that all must study Torah, they meant more than mere book learning. The Torah must rest within us, becoming part of our very being. The written Torah is not external to us, nor merely life advice. Rather, Hashems life and Torah depend on honoring Torah, as written in the weekly portions. Fresh Understanding vs. Rote Learning The Oral Torah, as explained in the Midrash, isnt just another layer of Torah or an increment in its greatness. Instead, it manifests daily through those who study it. Theres no reason to be satisfied with old interpretations alone; they should serve as foundation for producing new understandings. His Teaching Methods The Learning Environment In the Beit HaMidrash and during second seder, he rarely sat with a book, preferring to walk around. Questions and difficulties werent always immediately clear, but he would appear whenever anyone had a question, listening with what he called an ear that desires the soul. Recording and Documentation When asked about recording lessons, he declined, explaining that while the regular lessons were organized and precise, the thinking needed to be precise and accurate in the moment. The study sessions involved rolling topics back and forth in the Gemara, connecting yesterdays insights with tomorrows discoveries. His Unique Approach to Torah Study The Moses Model He would explain the verse about Moses entering the Tent of Meeting as a model for self-enlightenment through teaching. Just as Hashem taught Moses how to teach, the Rosh Yeshiva believed in learning alongside his students rather than merely instructing them. Teaching Fundamentals Even when teaching basics like the Aleph-Beit to children, his approach wasnt to teach from a position of prior knowledge, but to learn anew with the children, to enlighten himself. This mirrored how Hashem taught, even though He was teaching the most basic elements. Intellectual Engagement and Debate The Nature of Discussions He would engage in heated debates with students, sometimes for hours. These werent mere arguments but intellectual exercises aimed at deeper understanding. He believed that while one builds on teachers knowledge, each person must develop their own understanding of Torah verses, Talmudic discussions, and the forces of the soul. His Impact on Students The intensity of his teaching came through his uniqueness and desire to teach, whether discussing Torah verses, Talmudic passages, or understanding human nature. Sometimes his insights came from places the world wasnt prepared to hear, yet he persisted in sharing them. Final Reflections His conduct in learning emphasized paired study and class discussions, with every point made with utmost clarity in conversation. He saw the students enthusiasm in studying Gemara as fulfilling they shall add insight and learning. His words consistently aimed to elevate souls and plant understanding in his students hearts, always making space for them to comment and illuminate the discussion themselves. This wasnt just teaching it was a demonstration of how Torah learning should be: fresh, engaged, and deeply personal, while simultaneously communal and interactive. His legacy shows that true Torah learning is about constant renewal and personal growth, not just accumulation of knowledge. The author can be reached at [email protected] Armed neo-Nazis marched through the Short North neighborhood of Columbus, Ohio, on Saturday afternoon, shouting racial slurs, antisemitic rhetoric, and promoting white supremacist ideologies. The march, which began around 1:15 p.m., involved about a dozen individuals dressed in black clothing, wearing red facemasks, and carrying black flags emblazoned with swastikas. Videos circulating on social media captured the group shouting hateful slogans, including white supremacist chants and slurs directed at people of color. Police responded to a report of the group allegedly spraying mace or pepper spray at a passerby, as well as callers reporting the group was armed. Officers were dispatched to the area of North High Street and East Lincoln Street at approximately 1:20 p.m., according to Columbus Police Sgt. Joe Albert. When police arrived, the group dispersed without further incident. Community leaders and officials swiftly condemned the groups actions. Lee C. Shapiro, regional director of the American Jewish Committee, decried the demonstration as a vile display of hate. This is another sad example of the bigotry that we have witnessed across the country, Shapiro said. We cannot allow agitators to stoke fear in a city where diversity and tolerance is one of its hallmarks. Hate has no place in Columbus. Not now, not ever. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine also issued a strong statement against the march. There is no place in this state for hate, bigotry, antisemitism, or violence. Neo-Nazis their faces hidden behind red masks roamed streets in Columbus today, carrying Nazi flags and spewing vile and racist speech against people of color and Jews, DeWine said. Note: The video below contains unsavory language. View at your own discretion. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) A French court on Friday granted the conditional release of Georges Ibrahim Abdallah, a Lebanese terrorist imprisoned since 1984 for his role in the murders of Israeli diplomat Yacov Barsimantov and U.S. military attache Col. Charles Ray in Paris. Abdallah, now 73, was convicted in 1987 and sentenced to life imprisonment. The decision to release him, set for December 6, is contingent upon his permanent departure from French territory. Frances antiterrorism prosecutor plans to appeal the ruling, a spokesperson confirmed to AFP. In [a] decision dated today, the court granted Georges Ibrahim Abdallah conditional release from December 6, subject to the condition that he leaves French territory and not appear there again, prosecutors said in a statement quoted by AFP. This is not the first time Abdallahs release has been ordered. In 2013, a parole committee approved his release, but it was blocked when Frances then-interior minister declined to authorize his deportation. The latest ruling by the tribunal dapplication des peines, which oversees prisoner sentences, bypasses the need for government approval, potentially removing the prior barrier to his release. Abdallah was linked to the Marxist-Leninist Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine before founding the Lebanese Armed Revolutionary Factions (LARF), a splinter group responsible for several terrorist attacks. In March 1982, an accomplice of Abdallah shot Barsimantov, the second secretary of Israels embassy in France, three times in the head in front of his wife and 8-year-old daughter. Although the shooter was never apprehended, the murder was traced back to Abdallah. Abdallah maintains that his actions were part of a political struggle for Palestinian rights, refusing to express remorse. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) by Rabbi Yair Hoffman Early Life and Family Legacy In the heart of Jerusalem, at 107 Rechov Uziel, lived a man whose very presence radiated the hadras panim (spiritual countenance) of a previous generation. Rav Moshe Shapira ztl was a unique fusion of extraordinary breadth and depth in Torah knowledge, combined with an unwavering commitment to nurturing individual souls. His life exemplified how ancient wisdom could illuminate modern challenges while maintaining absolute clarity of vision despite the shifting winds of contemporary culture. Born in Tel Aviv in 1935 to Rav Meir Yitzchok Shapira, a great-nephew of the Alter of Kelm, young Moshe inherited a legacy of superhuman discipline and devotion to Torah. His fathers remarkable habit of rising precisely at 2 a.m. each day to learn a practice that continued even during his final days in a coma set the tone for Rav Moshes own lifelong dedication to maximizing every moment for Torah study. Early Torah Education By age eleven, he was already learning at the fledgling Ohr Yisrael Yeshiva in Petach Tikvah, studying under giants like Rav Yaakov Neiman and Rav Yosef Rozovsky. His journey through the great yeshivos Ponevezh, Chevron, Beis Yehuda, Kamenitz, and the Mir was marked by constant growth and reinvention. Even as a young man in Ponevezh, his peers, many years his senior, would seek his help in understanding complex sugyos. After the age of Bar Mitzvah, he stayed in Rav Desslers house. By the time he was 16, he had already learned Shaarei Kedusha with Rav Dessler. He was 18 years old when Rav Dessler was Niftar. Unique Breadth of Knowledge What set Rav Moshe apart was not just his mastery of Shas and poskim, but his extraordinary grasp of the deeper dimensions of Torah. As his future father-in-law discovered during his pre-marriage testing, Rav Moshe knew the works of the Maharal with the same depth and clarity as he knew Shas. This combination of revealed and hidden Torah would become his hallmark, allowing him to illuminate contemporary events through the lens of eternal wisdom. Teaching Legacy Throughout his forty years of teaching, Rav Moshe maintained a punishing schedule of 30-40 shiurim per week, yet never compromised on depth or preparation. He demanded excellence from his talmidim, expecting them to thoroughly prepare their questions and continuously push beyond their perceived limitations. His teaching method was not just about transmitting information, but about training minds to think deeply and independently. Reaching Every Soul Perhaps most remarkable was his ability to connect with souls across the spectrum of Jewish life. From the most accomplished scholars to Russian students who had never heard of Yetzias Mitzrayim, from linguistics professors at Hebrew University to special needs children, Rav Moshe found ways to illuminate Torah at every level. He turned down offers to head prestigious yeshivos, choosing instead to work with students who didnt fit into the standard system. Impact on Russian Jewry His impact on Russian Jewry was particularly profound. In his later years, he chose to spend Pesach at Yeshiva Toras Chaim in Moscow, explaining that nowhere else could he find students who progressed from complete ignorance of Judaism to asking sophisticated questions from Rav Akiva Eiger within a single year. He saw in these students mesirus nefesh (self-sacrifice) a reflection of Judaisms eternal strength. Approach to Contemporary Challenges Rav Moshes approach to contemporary challenges was unique. When asked about the Arab-Israeli conflict, he dismissed both diplomatic and military solutions as insufficient, pointing instead to the power of sincere prayer. His dozens of shiurim on the nature of Yishmael continue to provide clarity and direction during times of conflict. Personal Humility Despite his towering intellect and influence, Rav Moshe maintained a profound sense of tznius (modesty). Like Dovid HaMelech, who explained to Michal that what he revealed in public was but a fraction of his true self, Rav Moshe kept vast reservoirs of wisdom and spiritual attainment hidden from view. As one of his maspidim (eulogizers) noted, those who learned from him felt they were standing before a mountain where only the foothills were visible. Enduring Legacy Rav Moshe passed away on Asara BTeves, 5777 (2017), leaving behind a legacy that continues to illuminate the path forward for Klal Yisrael. Through his talmidim, his seforim, and the countless lives he touched, his light continues to shine, helping us navigate the challenges of our times with clarity and faith. There was much that few people knew about Rav Moshe Shapira. He would give shiurim in the writings of Rav Kook and described him as the Moreh DShmaytsah of Kedusha. He once gave an entire shiur about the Jews who lived in Gaza he said this in a shiur in Bnei Brak! His life teaches us that true greatness lies not just in the accumulation of knowledge, but in using that knowledge to elevate others while maintaining ones own continuous growth. In an era of confusion and complexity, Rav Moshe Shapira showed us how to look into the sun to strive for the highest levels of Torah understanding while remaining firmly grounded in authenticity and truth. A biography of Rav Moshe Shapira by Rabbi Nissel recently was released. There is a website called Lehavin which has hundreds of his shiurim from the Thursday night shiurim The author can be reached at [email protected] A series of rocket strikes from Lebanon targeted northern Israel, with at least ten rockets identified as crossing into Israeli territory. According to an IDF Spokesperson, Some were intercepted, while others resulted in impacts. One of the affected sites included an empty shul in the Carmel neighborhood, and another saw a vehicle catch fire, causing damage to nearby structures. Magen David Adom (MDA) paramedics transported six individuals to Rambam Medical Center in Haifa. Five sustained minor injuries while seeking shelter, and a 16-year-old girl suffered from anxiety. The Fire and Rescue Authority reported no known casualties or individuals trapped at the sites. However, firefighters, along with medical teams and Israeli police, continued to search the affected areas to rule out any potential injuries. We will provide further updates as more details emerge, the authority said. Following the rocket strikes in the Haifa area, the IDF Home Front Commands Haifa District units were deployed to survey the impacted zones and provide assistance. Local authorities, security forces, and emergency services joined the effort. The Israel Electric Corporation reported significant infrastructure damage in Haifa due to the strikes. Repairs are complex, and it is estimated that restoring power to the area will take several hours, the utility company said. Haifas municipal teams, including the mayor, city manager, and welfare units, were dispatched to assess damage sites. They worked to identify unexploded ordnance and debris from rocket interceptions while cordoning off damaged areas for public safety. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Three Israelis were arrested overnight Motzei Shabbos for firing flares at the private home of Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu in Caesarea on Motzei Shabbos. The three suspects are anti-government anarchists, including a senior IDF reserve officer who is one of the leaders of the protests against Netanyahu in Caesarea. Ynet reported that according to the investigation, the suspects launched the flares from dunes on the beach near Netanyahus home. The flares that were used are designed to be used by naval vessels as distress signals. All three suspects were reportedly well-known anti-Netanyahu activists and will likely face multiple criminal charges, including arson. Israeli media reports said that the suspects were interrogated by the Shin Bet and were forbidden from meeting with their lawyers. A joint statement from the Shin Bet and Israel Police on Sunday morning said: As part of the police and Shin Bet investigation into the firing of two flare bombs towards the Prime Ministers residence in Caesarea, the following details have been permitted for publication: Last night, three suspects were arrested for involvement in the incident. The three have been transferred for a joint investigation by the Shin Bet and the polices Lahav 433 unit. Additional details will be provided later according to the progress of the investigation. The court has issued a gag order on the details of the investigation and the identities of the suspects for a period of 30 days in order to prevent obstruction or harm to the investigation. One of the flares landed on Netanyahus property and kindled a fire. Baruch Hashem, the Netanyahus were not home at the time of the incident and no one was injured. A week ago, the Jerusalem Police arrested a suspect for firing flares at Netanyahus resident in Jerusalem. The Jerusalem Magistratess Court extended the suspects arrest but a judge from the Jerusalem District Court ordered his release, saying: Its important to consider that the use of these means was done within the framework of a protest. Deputy Commissioner Asi Aharoni, head of the police spokesperson unit, told Reshet Bet: This is a dangerous escalation. We see an increase in protests, whether its people coming with fuel containers in their bags and lighting bonfires in Tel Aviv, a police officer was almost set on fire. We see flares and flare bombs. We allow freedom of protest but these are actions that must be condemned. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) The IDF sent 1,000 of 7,000 draft orders to Bnei Yeshivos on Sunday following Attorney-General Gali Baharav Miaras order last week. The Chareidi Yated Ne-eman newspaper published a front-page article reiterating the instructions of the Gedolim to bnei yeshivos to ignore the draft orders. The article stated that bnei yeshivos should act according to the instructions in HaGaon HaRav Landaus letter and as was clarified in a chizzuk talk at Yeshivas Mir: The matter is clear. We know full well that no ben yeshivah or avreich will go to the army under any circumstances or in any manner. The Chassidish Mevaser newspaper on Sunday slammed newly appointed Defense Minister Yisrael Katz, who didnt cancel the 7,000 draft orders that were approved by former defense minister Yoav Gallant, like the Chareidi parties were hoping. However, it should be noted that it is unclear if Katz had the authority to cancel the orders, which were approved by Gallant following the order of Baharav-Miara. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) The suspects were arrested following an investigation by police and the Shin Bet security service, who had requested a 12-day detention. The court opted for a shorter duration, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. A gag order issued by the court prohibits the publication of the suspects identities or details about the investigation for the next 30 days. However, reports in Hebrew-language media indicate that the individuals are senior members of the anti-government protest movement. The alleged incident has drawn significant public attention, coming amid heightened tensions surrounding ongoing demonstrations against Netanyahus government. Neither the police nor the Shin Bet have released further details about the suspects or the exact circumstances of the case. Authorities are expected to continue their investigation while the suspects remain in custody. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Hamas political leaders have left Qatar and have moved to Turkey, Kan News reported on Sunday night, following reports earlier this month that Qatar has ordered Hamas leaders to leave the country. The report quoted an Israeli official who said that Hamas officials flew to Turkey in recent days. According to the report, the move is expected to affect negotiations for the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who viciously turned against the Jewish state following October 7, told the media last week that Turkey has cut all ties with Israel. Prior to October 7, Erdogan had launched efforts to repair ties with Israel and under pressure from Jerusalem, took steps to expel members of Hamass military wing from the country. Last week, Kan reported that the US, who pressured Qatar to expel Hamas leaders, conveyed a message to Turkey not to accept the Hamas leaders. A US official told Kan that Hamas leaders are not welcome in any country that is a partner of the US. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) The Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, wants to get more of us into work. That's understandable, for the more people in employment, the more people there are paying taxes and making the Government's dreadful Budget arithmetic look a little less glum. But how? Up to now, most of the debate about Reeves's Budget has been on the extent to which the rise in employers' National Insurance Contributions will have the opposite effect by discouraging hiring. If there is a problem in the demand for labour, there has also been a slump on the supply side, as disability and sickness rates have remained much higher than they were before the pandemic. But let's be charitable and look at one area where she could, if she were wise, find a way of boosting employment. It is older workers. The pension age has now gone up to 66 for both men and women, but what matters most from a tax perspective is when people actually retire, rather than the date when they get their state pension. On the rise: Up to now, most of the debate about the Budget has been on the extent to which the rise in employers' National Insurance Contributions In recent years that has been creeping upwards. From the 1950s through to the middle 1990s it fell sharply. Back in 1950, the average age a man stopped working was over 67; for a women, just under 64. By the 1990s, that was down to around 63 for a man and 61 for a woman. But this year the Office for National Statistics estimates that the average age for a man will be 65.7, and for a women 64.5. Employment dipped during the pandemic, as a lot of people decided to retire earlier than they otherwise would, but now it is climbing again. So if the Chancellor wants to keep older people in paid work, and paying tax, she will be pushing at an open door. So what should she do? There is one simple lever she could pull. It would be to exempt employers from paying NICs for anyone beyond the state retirement age. At the moment, employees aged 66 or over don't pay NICs. It would be a bit ridiculous for someone to be drawing their state pension on one hand, and then having to pay into it (without receiving any further benefits) on the other. But if employees don't pay, why should their employers? There is a practical point here. Older workers are still paying full income tax. If employers find that older workers are significantly cheaper to hire than younger ones, they will try to find ways of encouraging them to stay in the workforce. On a quick tally, if this change in NICs were to help push up the average age at retirement by more than a year, overall tax revenues would rise, not fall. It would more than pay for itself. The loss on National Insurance would be more than offset by the rise in income tax. The story gets better. If companies are going to employ more people in their late 60s, they will also be incentivised to hold onto staff that are a bit younger. That's the late 50-year-olds and early 60-year-olds. The Chancellor said in her Mansion House speech last week that she wanted to get inactive workers back into jobs. That's fine, but once someone has stopped work, it is tough to get them back. It's far better to keep them with a foothold in the market. It doesn't have to be full-time work; indeed many people at that stage of their careers don't want that. But it has to be paid there are lots of voluntary opportunities for older people and they make a huge contribution to society. But for a government desperate for tax revenue, it needs people to be earning. There are lots of other issues here. There is the danger that people underestimate how much money they will need in retirement. There is the need for older workers to be flexible in their attitudes, and for younger ones to feel comfortable working alongside them. Companies have to learn how to make the best use of older talent. It's a huge task and lots of people are working on it. But if Reeves really wants to boost work opportunities for older people and help the national finances this one is a winner. Is she clever enough to see this? If not, it's one for the Tories to grab. Unhealthy, unwholesome and positively dangerous. That was how many 19th Century doctors viewed the use of double beds for couples, married or not. Ideas had changed dramatically by the 1950s and sleeping apart was considered a sign of marital failure. Now, one in six UK couples admit to sleeping separately, often blaming wriggling and restless partners for their decision. Practically-minded Germans pursue a different path, sharing a bed but not a duvet. Premier Inn owner Whitbread moved into Germany in 2014. Today, there are 59 hotels and the business is growing fast. Hotels are similar in most respects to their UK counterparts, but there is an important difference. Each double room includes two single duvets, one for each guest because that's how Germans like to sleep. Whitbread shares are 28.97 and should increase materially in price over the next five years. Long associated with beer, the company's roots stretch back to the mid-18th Century, when Samuel Whitbread set up the UK's first mass-production brewery on Chiswell Street in London. By the 1970s, Whitbread was moving into pubs and restaurants, including well-known chains Beefeater and Brewers Fayre. Within a few years however, some clever soul had twigged that restaurants with capacious car parks could easily fit a hotel on site. Waking from slumber: Premier Inn, advertised by Lenny Henry, is set to see shares recover Hotels turned out to be far more profitable than pubs and restaurants, and today Whitbread is the UK's largest budget hotel business with 850 premises from Elgin in northern Scotland to Helston on the western tip of Cornwall. Brewing has gone, many restaurants have gone and so has Costa Coffee, acquired as a family business in 1995 but sold to Coca-Cola for almost 4billion in 2018. Beefeater or Brewers Fayre venues can still be found next to around half the hotels but that too is changing under an ambitious growth plan unveiled by head honcho Dominic Paul earlier this year. Chief executive of Costa Coffee from 2016, Paul left the business after the Coke deal, spent some time at Domino's Pizza and returned to head Whitbread in 2023. His absence from the group coincided with the pandemic, which left hotels on their knees and saw Whitbread shares slump to 21. Even in the worst of times, however, Whitbread retained an edge over competitors, many of which have been forced to close down or retrench in recent years. That puts Paul in an enviable position. Supply has dwindled, demand has risen and few operators have the financial muscle to benefit. Paul is determined to seize the day, with a plan to expand the UK portfolio from around 86,000 to 100,000 rooms by 2030 and double the German estate to 20,000 rooms, becoming the number one operator there within five years. Progress is already underway. In Britain, more than 100 Beefeaters and Brewers Fayre will be converted into 3,500 new rooms, while another 125 will be replaced with more modern restaurants incorporated into the hotels. The trend is tried and tested at hundreds of Premier Inns and most customers seem to like it. Restaurant conversions will be supplemented by an aggressive opening programme here and in Germany. Many new sites are already in the pipeline, others are under discussion and Paul is extremely confident of achieving his 2030 target. Digital upgrades will bolster revenues too, from offering rooms with a view online, for a little bit of extra cash, to early check-ins and late check-outs, also for a few pounds more. An efficiency drive is part of Paul's plans and, at interim results, last month, he said the group expected to increase profits from around 500million to at least 800million by 2030 and generate more than 2billion for dividends and share buy-backs, a process which tends to increase investor returns over time. Whitbread owns around half its estate outright, leasing the rest from property groups. This makes the group more financially robust than most rivals and imbues a sense of trust among investors and landlords. Consumers trust Whitbread brands too, particularly Premier Inn, with its promise of comfortable bedding, powerful showers, spic-and-span rooms and all-you-can-eat breakfasts. Rachel Reeves' ill-thought-out move to raise employers' National Insurance contributions is unhelpful for Whitbread and Paul has made his feelings known to the Chancellor. But brokers still expect sales and profits to increase at a decent clip over the next three years and have pencilled in a 5 per cent dividend increase to 1.02 for this year, rising to nearly 1.07 after that. Midas verdict: Whitbread revenues are 50 per cent higher than they were in 2019, profits are 20 per cent ahead and boss Dominic Paul is determined to increase momentum from here. But Whitbread shares still languish below pre-pandemic levels and have fallen since Rachel Reeves' Budget. They should recover from here. Buy at 28.97 and hold. Traded on: Main market Ticker: WTB Contact: whitbread.co.uk Pharmaceuticals giant AstraZeneca is accelerating the shift in its centre of gravity to the US. The move, under chief executive Pascal Soriot, will be a boost for Donald Trump's incoming administration. But it will be seen as a setback for the Labour Government, which is looking to life science firms such as Astra to turbo-charge growth in the UK. The US is already by far Astra's largest market, accounting for 44 per cent of global revenues. Soriot's aim is to lift that to half of the total by 2030, by which time he has pledged to be making $80billion (63billion) a year. He is pouring $3.5billion into new research and development and manufacturing sites in the US that will create more than a thousand jobs. The buoyant picture across the Atlantic is in stark contrast with the UK, where the firm is stuck in talks with the Government over whether or not it will go ahead with a 450million vaccine factory in Liverpool. American dream: Boss Pascal Soriot (pictured) is pouring $3.5billion into new research and development and manufacturing sites in the US that will create more than a thousand jobs Under the previous Tory administration, Astra had expected 90million of support for the project. Labour is believed to be trying to reduce this to as little as 40million. Soriot sent out a strong signal last week of the growing importance of the US by presenting the company's results for the first nine months of this year in New York instead of in the City. The choreography was a clear message to Labour that Britain risks falling further down the pecking order for investment. 'The reason we invest very substantially in the US is we know it is a very important market in terms of providing our medicines to patients and also in terms of innovation,' Soriot said. 'We think the economy should continue to grow strongly in the US next year and the year after it will support the delivery of medicines. All this makes us enthusiastic about the US.' Dan Coatsworth, an investment analyst at broker AJ Bell, said: 'Astra is an international business and it has many options where to expand operations. If the maths for the UK investment no longer add up, it might simply shift focus to a different region.' Astra headquarters and its main share listing are in the UK, where it vies with oil company Shell for the status of most valuable company in the FTSE 100 share index. Despite this, its UK revenues are estimated at less than five per cent of the total, a proportion considered so small that the company does not even break out the figures separately. Soriot believes the rewards for innovation are superior in the US because there is a greater openness to new treatments compared with in the UK. The NHS recently denied women in England with advanced breast cancer access to Astra drug Enhertu on the grounds that it is too expensive. Expansion in the US will include a state-of-the-art R&D centre in Cambridge, Massachusetts, a manufacturing facility for biologics in Maryland, manufacturing in Texas and cell therapy facilities on both coasts. Experts believe the announcement of plans to invest billions in the US will put Astra in a favourable light with Trump and could also help the firm to avoid import tariffs if they are imposed on medicines. One wild card for Astra and its US ambitions is Trump's appointment of anti-vaccine activist Robert F Kennedy Junior (RFK) to run the department of health. Coatsworth said Astra's shift in focus 'could stir up speculation that it will be the next FTSE 100 company to think about switching its primary stock market listing to the US'. He added: 'Losing AstraZeneca from the FTSE 100 would be a blow for the stock exchange but realistically this looks unlikely in the near-term.' Soriot respects the UK's prowess in life sciences and the company has no intention of moving its share listing to the US. It's less Beijing and more Brum for the new boss of posh handbag group Mulberry. Andrea Baldo wants to recapture the glory days of Brit-Chic, when its slouchy Alexa bag was seen on the arm of every It Girl, in a bid to restore the company's fortunes. He joined in July and plans to double down on Britishness. The Italian wants to open more shops in the UK following a period of targeting Far Eastern consumers. Stylish: Andrea Baldo wants to recapture the glory days of Brit-Chic In the 2010s, Mulberry's British vibe, born of its 50 years of Somerset manufacturing heritage, made the Alexa and Bayswater bags must-haves. It will mean less reliance on China, where the taste for luxury goods has ebbed away. Baldo hopes to open a Birmingham store as part of the shift in focus. Investors are irate over a slump in sales and profits. Baldo faces a considerable challenge. He is understood to be ready to mend fences with Mike Ashley, whose Frasers group has a 37 per cent stake. Sadly, thanks to my parents wasting LOTS of cash by paying for my Catholic education, it's not enough that most of my waking hours are filled with soul-crushing guilt for my very existence inasmuch as daily coffee runs and all of my wasted labor REALLY DON'T JUSTIFY the sacrifice of our Lord & Savoir . . . Now . . . The Most Reverend Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas wants to pile on more shame just in case I was enjoying the nice Autumn weather we've been having. Here's his postelection analysis that kinda feels personal . . . As if the 2 & 1/2 minutes of respite that I get from enjoying Angela White's body of work is one of the many reasons that I'm risking hell fire or at least a few millennia in purgatory so that I can argue with John Steinbeck that supporting the POINTLESS war in Vietnam tainted all of his other classic work. But I digress . . . Here's the misery from the local Catholic cleric who missed his calling as a politico . . . "It was troubling that many politicians made their defense of the so-called right to abortion, the ability to kill our own children, their top priority. The importance and beauty of motherhood has been so devalued in the popular culture that supporting the legal right to kill our own children was considered by political experts a plus for candidates. "Support for abortion was considered particularly important for gaining the votes of women, especially young, first-time voters. "Similarly, political action committees produced ads aimed at motivating young men to vote for candidates who would protect their access to pornography." Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . The old adage seems to fit here . . . Elections have consequences. Accordingly . . . Not so long ago, local news readers might remember that Mayor Q fought against Missouri intervention into local law enforcement. And now . . . There's a move for help given ongoing shortages in local police numbers. And so . . . . In this compilation we share a couple of notes on the topic of a staffing crisis cont'd along with other updates on police action, court cases and local tribute to law enforcement. Check TKC news gathering . . . Mayors urge Governor-elect Mike Kehoe to begin collaborative approach to public safety issues Kansas City, Missouri, Mayor Quinton Lucas, along with mayors from three major Missouri cities, sent a letter Friday to Governor-elect Mike Kehoe asking him to help the state fight crime. Kansas City seeking outside help from state, county on public safety There is an ongoing effort to seek assistance from outside law enforcement agencies for the Kansas City Police Department as KCPD works to add officers. KC man sentenced to 23 years after shooting man, dumping body in street A Kansas City man has been sentenced to 23 years in prison after he shot and killed a 30-year-old man in March 2023 and dumped his body on Independence Avenue. Missourian who wanted to be a cop gets prison time for assaulting officer in Jan. 6 case Kyler Bard of SW Missouri was sentenced for assaulting officer & other offenses on Jan. 6, 2021, in first area case since Trump's election. KC brothers federally charged with possession of firearms deemed machine guns A pair of brothers from Kansas City could face prison time after they were found to have been in possession of devices that convert semi-automatic firearms into machine guns. Kansas City, Missouri, police ask for public's help to find missing 54-year-old man The Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department is asking for the public's help to find a missing man who was last seen Saturday morning. Fallen Independence Ofc. Cody Allen among those named Officer of the Year Fallen Independence Ofc. Cody Allen was awarded Officer of the Year, in addition to officers Steven Thompson and Luke Buchanan. All three were shot when responding to a shooting at a house on Feb. 29. Developing . . . For weekend early morning denizens of the discourse checking pop culture, community reporting and top headlines we share more than a few items somewhat inspired by presenter, celeb & reality star hottie KB. Check TKC news gathering . . . Local Lights Reappear . . . Christmas tree lightings, holiday displays across Kansas City area 2024 Cities and attractions around the Kansas City area are getting their Christmas trees, lights and decor up for everyone to see. View From The Past Photographs from 1860s provide rare glimpse of bridge that propelled Kansas City's rise Completion of the Hannibal Bridge set in motion Kansas City's rise into a major city. Rock Chalk Analog Imaging This Kansas film lab is helping to develop an analog resurgence in movies and photography Midwest Film Company in Wichita processes filmstock for photographers and cinematographers around the U.S. - and even pop stars like Megan Thee Stallion. Owner Justin Cary started the business in 2019 with a setup in his kitchen. Show-Me Scribes Letting Loose Two Missouri playwrights find their voices after incarceration with shows about home For 25 years, Prison Performing Arts has given detainees in Missouri prisons the chance to act and star in theater productions. But what happens after they're released? Two alumni members are taking their experiences to Greenfinch Theater & Dive in St. Louis with plays focused on what it's like to be home. Local Concert Tribute Missouri mother receives healing song verse from Jelly Roll after son's death last month Salena Garten got a boost of support from a superstar in Kansas City this week, as she is grieving the loss of her son. Brit Hottie Journey Cont'd Kelly Brook and husband Jeremy Parisi land huge ITV deal KELLY Brook and husband Jeremy Parisi have landed a huge ITV deal after their successful stint on Race Across The World. The model and actress, 44, has now bagged a three-part mini series which wil... Prez Fades Into Background Biden awkwardly stands in back of APEC photo with China's Xi Jinping front and center President Biden awkwardly stood in the back corner of this year's APEC family photo on Saturday, which prominently featured Xi Jinping and Justin Trudeau towards the center. MAGA Puts World On Notice Trump's military threats alarm Democrats; GOP shrugs President-elect Trump has talked about using the military on the "enemy from within," at the border and potentially even in Mexico against cartels. The rhetoric has sparked increasing w... Governing Deets Debated Trump is determined to see Gaetz confirmed as AG despite controversies | CNN Politics President-elect Donald Trump is pressing forward with his decision to put forward former Rep. Matt Gaetz as attorney general, despite widespread unease on Capitol Hill about entrusting the Justice Department to a figure with limited legal experience who has recently faced investigations into allegations of sexual misconduct. Tesla Cutback Await Transgender Monkeys And Barbie Fraud: Here's Some Of The Government Waste DOGE Could Target Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy have their work cut out for them. The pair is heading up the meme-worthy Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), part of President-elect Donald Trump's effort to slash the federal bureaucracy and runaway spending. Both entrepreneurs have said they'll take an aggressive approach with the project, and there is no shortage ... Nominee ALMOST Explained Pete Hegseth offers explanation to Trump aides on sexual assault accusation Trump's pick to lead the Pentagon is arguing to transition officials that a 2017 sexual encounter was consensual. Conservatives Stand Up For CNN Newsie After Showdown 'No Shame, No Decency': Video Shows Anti-Israel Protester Confront CNN Anchor At Synagogue An anti-Israel protester confronted CNN anchor Dana Bash, who is Jewish, at a synagogue, video that circulated on social media Friday shows. End Game In Europe?!? Zelensky says war will 'end sooner' once Trump becomes US president Volodymyr Zelensky says he is certain the war with Russia will "end sooner" under a Trump presidency. Tech Against Holy Land Video from US Air Force shows a swarm of Iranian drones targeting Israel | CNN Politics CNN's national security correspondent Natasha Bertrand speaks to the US pilots that defended Israel's airspace from an Iranian attack in April. Pilots and ground crew recall the events and share video they shot of the night. Actress Backpedals After Outrage Eva Longoria says Trump's win was not why she left the US, despite sharing anxieties over his victory Eva Longoria, who splits her time between Spain and Mexico with her husband, Jose Baston, and their 6-year-old son, Santiago, shared her real reason for leaving the U.S. Not All Benefits Friendly?!? Why being polyamorous is different for people of color People of color have different experiences with polyamory than their white counterparts. Here are their stories. Bebop Soundtrack Revisited A new album features rare Kansas City recordings from jazz legend Charlie Parker A collection of rare recordings from jazz legend Charlie Parker are featured on the new album "Charlie Parker: Bird in Kansas City." The tracks were all recorded in Kansas City in the 1940s and 1950s. New Digs Across River 'It's a big deal': Excitement builds for new Riverside amphitheater The excitement continues to build for the amphitheater scheduled to open in 2026 in Riverside, Missouri. Upscale Cowtown Artsy Offering One of world's most famous paintings now at Nelson-Atkins Museum "Under the Wave off Kanagawa," is now on display at the Nelson-Atkins Museum in Kansas City. Local Taco Proliferation . . . Tiki Taco plans to double its restaurant count in 2025, starting at one busy Olathe corner A rapidly scaling taco spot with a trio of locations across the metro is adding an Olathe restaurant this March. Four more Kansas City-area eateries are already in the works with the partners at Tiki Taco hungry for regional expansion - even if it isn't yet on the table. Weekend According To Katie Easy, breezy Saturday with a windy, windy week ahead Saturday will have high temperatures around 64 degrees; breezy Saturday, rainy Sunday, stormy Monday. Chappell Roan - Good Luck, Babe! is the song of the day and this is the OPEN THREAD for right now. On the afternoon of November 16 local time, President Xi Jinping met with US President Joe Biden upon request on the margins of the APEC Economic Leaders Meeting in Lima, Peru. China has released a readout on the meeting. I wish to share a bit more on the context for the meeting and what was discussed. This meeting was held one year after the last time that the two Presidents met. The two sides reviewed the journey of China-US relations over the past four years, and drew experiences and inspirations from it. Their conversation was candid, in-depth and constructive. It focused on advancing dialogue and cooperation and properly managing differences during the transition period of the US government and on regional and international issues of mutual interest, and charted the course for bilateral relations. Over the past four years, China-US relations have gone through ups and downs, but under the stewardship of the two Presidents, the two sides have also been engaged in dialogue and cooperation, and bilateral ties have remained stable on the whole. In his interactions with President Biden, President Xi fully shared his views on how the two sides should approach bilateral relations, which provide strategic guidance and are important for the direction of this relationship. President Xi vividly compared the relationship between China and the US to a mansion. He proposed in 2021 during the virtual meeting with President Biden that the two countries need to follow the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperationthat is the dome of the mansion. During the 2022 Bali meeting, he underscored Chinas four red lines on the Taiwan question, path and system, democracy and human rights, and right to developmentthat is the foundation of the mansion. During the meeting in San Francisco in 2023, he stated that China and the US should jointly develop a right perception, manage disagreements effectively, advance mutually beneficial cooperation, shoulder responsibilities as major countries and promote people-to-people exchangesthose are the five pillars of the mansion. In Lima, President Xi insightfully listed seven experiences and inspirations that the two countries should draw from the course of their relations, namely, to have a correct strategic perception, match words with actions, treat each other as equals, not to challenge red lines and paramount principles, conduct more dialogue and cooperation, respond to the expectations of the people, and step forward to shoulder the responsibilities of major countries. President Xi Jinping stressed that the two sides should continue to add building blocks to the mansion, and expressed readiness to make joint effort with President Biden and his successor towards this end. History tells us that China and the US stand to gain from cooperation and lose from confrontation. President Xi pointed out from his deep observation that the Thucydidess Trap is not a historical inevitability, a new Cold War should not be fought and cannot be won, and containing China is unwise, unacceptable and bound to fail. China and the US, as two major countries in the world, need to bear in mind the benefit of the whole world and inject more certainty and positive energy to todays turbulent world. The common understandings achieved at the Lima meeting are as follows. The two Presidents reiterated the seven-point common understandings on the guiding principles for China-US relations, namely treating each other with respect, finding a way to live alongside each other peacefully, maintaining open lines of communication, preventing conflict, upholding the United Nations Charter, cooperating in areas of shared interest, and responsibly managing competitive aspects of the relationship. The two sides are ready to uphold these principles, continue to stabilize China-US relations, and ensure a smooth transition of the relationship. The two Presidents spoke positively about the important role of China-US strategic communication, regular contact between the diplomatic and security teams, and dialogue mechanisms on mil-to-mil relations, economic and trade ties, and financial issues. They agreed to maintain the momentum in communication and strengthen macroeconomic policy coordination. The two Presidents reviewed the important progress in dialogue and cooperation on counternarcotics, climate change, AI, and people-to-people exchanges since their San Francisco meeting. The two Presidents believed that the two sides have had candid and constructive dialogue on AI. The two sides co-sponsored each others resolutions at the UN General Assembly on AI. On this basis, they affirmed the need to deal with risks of AI systems, make AI safer, enhance international cooperation, and promote AI for good and for all. The two Presidents affirmed the need to maintain human control over the decision to use nuclear weapons, and they stressed the need to seriously consider potential risks and adopt a prudent and responsible attitude when developing AI for the military domain. At the meeting, the two sides did not shy away from differences. President Xi made Chinas principled position absolutely clear on several major issues. On the Taiwan question, President Xi Jinping stressed that the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques are the political foundation of China-US relations. They must be observed. Cross-Strait peace and stability and Taiwan independence separatist activities are irreconcilable as water and fire. If the US side cares about maintaining peace across the Taiwan Strait, it is crucial that it sees clearly the true nature of Lai Ching-te and the DPP authorities in seeking Taiwan independence, handles the Taiwan question with extra prudence, unequivocally opposes Taiwan independence, and supports Chinas peaceful reunification. On the South China Sea issue, President Xi stressed that China firmly upholds its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea. Dialogue and consultation between states concerned is always the best way to manage differences in the South China Sea. The United States should not get involved in bilateral disputes over relevant islands and reefs of Nansha Qundao, nor should it aid or abet the impulsion to make provocations. On US suppression against Chinas trade and technology development, President Xi noted that the Chinese peoples right to development is not to be deprived of or ignored. All countries need to safeguard their national security. In the face of challenges, neither decoupling nor supply-chain disruption is the solution, and small yard, high fences is not what a major country should do. The US should not overstretch the national security concept, still less use it as a pretext for malicious moves to constrain and contain other countries. On alleged cyberattacks from China, President Xi noted that there is no evidence that supports the irrational claim and China itself is a target of international cyberattacks, and consistently opposes and combats all forms of cyberattacks. On the USs smear and blame-shifting against China on international and regional issues, President Xi noted that Chinas position and actions on the Ukraine issue have always been fair and square. China conducts shuttle diplomacy and mediation to promote peace talks, makes every effort for peace, and strives for deescalation. China does not allow conflict and turmoil to happen on the Korean Peninsula, and will not sit idly by when Chinas strategic security and core interests are under threat. President Xi in particular stressed that Chinas goal of a stable, healthy and sustainable China-US relationship remains unchanged. Its commitment to mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation as principles for handling China-US relations remains unchanged. Its position of resolutely safeguarding Chinas sovereignty, security and development interests remains unchanged. And its desire to carry forward the traditional friendship between the Chinese and American peoples remains unchanged. This shows that China is ready to engage in dialogue, expand cooperation, and manage differences with the incoming US government so as to maintain stability in China-US relations to the benefits of the two countries and the world at large. (@ChaudhryMAli88) ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 17th Nov, 2024) National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) dispatched its 19th shipment of aid on Sunday to Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, carrying 17 tons of essential supplies such as tents, food, milk, clothing, and hygiene kits in collaboration with the Al-Khidmat Foundation. The aid supplies, including rice buckets, powdered milk, canned food, family packs, sleeping bags, and medical support kits, were dispatched on the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif via a chartered flight from Jinnah International Airport in Karachi to Damascus, Syria. The send-off ceremony held at Jinnah International Airport was attended by MPA, Ali Khursheedi, Senator Amir Waliuddin Chishti, senior officials from NDMA, and Al-Khidmat Foundation. Ali Khursheedi emphasized the urgent need to provide relief to the war-affected population, considering the ongoing conflict and the needs of the affected communities. He reaffirmed the Government of Pakistan's commitment to supporting the brothers and sisters in distress and stressed the importance of collaboration between welfare organizations and the Pakistani public in strengthening these efforts. This 19th consignment was dispatched for the people of Syria and refugees from Lebanon, before this, the Government of Pakistan sent 12 aid consignments to Palestine and 6 shipments to Lebanon, with a total volume of 1722 tons. The Government of Pakistan continues to send relief supplies based on the needs of the war-affected populations of Lebanon and Palestine. On instructions of the Prime Minister, a special account named the "Prime Minister's Relief Fund for Gaza and Lebanon", has been established for the collection of donations from the public to aid their brothers and sisters in Gaza and Lebanon who are facing war emergencies. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Berlin, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 17th Nov, 2024) German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Sunday reaffirmed his country's support for Ukraine after taking flak for speaking to Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying that no decision on ending the war with Russia would be taken without Kyiv. "Ukraine can count on us" and "no decision will be taken behind Ukraine's back", the chancellor said at Berlin airport before flying off to a G20 meeting in Rio de Janeiro. After facing criticism from Kyiv for reaching out to Putin, the German leader defended the call, the first the Russian president has held with a major Western leader in nearly two years. "It was important to tell him that he must not expect that the support of Germany, Europe and many others in the world for Ukraine will weaken," the German leader added. Scholz said that US president-elect Donald Trump's undetailed promises to end the war in Ukraine also justified his decision to phone the Russian leader. "It would not be a good idea if, in the near future, there were talks between the American president and the Russian president without the head of an important European country," Germany in this case, "also holding talks themselves," the chancellor said. Scholz said his conversation with Putin allowed him "to note that the Russian president has not changed his mind much about this war, which is not good news". The German chancellor has lost his majority in parliament following the collapse of his governing coalition. But Scholz restated his intention Sunday to run for a second term in elections scheduled for February, despite calls from within his own camp for him to make way for popular Defence Minister Boris Pistorius. jpl/gv/sbk Gaza Strip, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 17th Nov, 2024) Israeli strikes killed dozens in Gaza Sunday, the civil defence there said, and also hit a central Beirut district where a Lebanese source reported the death of Hezbollah's spokesman in one raid. A Lebanese security source said Hezbollah spokesman Mohammed Afif was killed in a strike on Beirut's Ras al-Nabaa district, one of relatively few attacks outside the group's strongholds. Israel's military declined to comment. In the latest violence in Gaza, the civil defence agency said Israeli air raids killed at least 46 people. The deadliest strike, in the middle of the night in Beit Lahia in the north, killed 26 people, including women and children, and left at least 59 others buried under the rubble, civil defence spokesman Mahmud Bassal said. "We heard the Israeli strike, and the whole area was shaking," said Jaber Ghabayen, whose family lived in the razed building. "I was at a relatives' place, and we all thought that death was near," he told AFP. Bassal said three separate attacks on refugee camps in central Gaza killed 15 people, and an Israeli drone strike on the southern city of Rafah killed five. Hamas-run Gaza's health ministry on Sunday said the overall death toll in more than 13 months of war had reached 43,846. The majority of the dead are civilians, according to ministry figures, which the United Nations considers reliable. BALI, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 17th Nov, 2024) Nawabzada Jamal Khan Raisani, Member of the National Assembly and leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party, (PPP) on Sunday stressed the vital role of youth in the fight against tuberculosis through community-driven initiatives, awareness campaigns and the adoption of modern technology. Participating in a panel discussion at a symposium in Bali organized by the World Health Organization (WHO) on strategies to end tuberculosis (TB), Nawabzada Jamal Khan Raisani pointed out that Pakistan reports around 600,000 new TB cases annually, posing a significant public health challenge, with ministers and parliamentarians from 158 countries present. The panel, focused on an action plan for eradicating TB, included Nawabzada Raisani, the Health Ministers of Indonesia and Timor, and a Member of Parliament from Australia. He stressed the importance of involving youth in policy formulation and practical initiatives. "Young people should encourage their peers to adopt healthy lifestyles and address public misconceptions to ensure timely treatment," Raisani stated. He added that early diagnosis of TB is possible through local-level screening efforts and collaboration with global organizations. Raisani also underlined the need for effective community campaigns to achieve complete eradication of TB. Nawabzada Jamal Khan Raisani acknowledged the efforts of First Lady Aseefa Bhutto in the fight against TB. He said her vision has mobilized youth across Pakistan, including in Balochistan. He also praised Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari's dedication to eradicating TB and polio from Balochistan and ensuring youth are provided opportunities in health and education sectors. Raisani announced plans to form local teams of young leaders in the near future to spearhead awareness campaigns and treatment programs in remote areas of Balochistan, aiming for a TB-free future. (@FahadShabbir) Berlin, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 17th Nov, 2024) The Russian opposition, forced into exile and weakened by internal conflicts, will organise its first major demonstration against Moscow's Ukraine invasion in Berlin on Sunday, testing its political credibility in the third year of the war. The Kremlin has in recent years eradicated any political competition at home and waged a massive crackdown on dissent, with hundreds -- possibly thousands -- of Russians in prison for their political views. With Vladimir Putin in power for almost 25 years, all of his political opponents are now dead, in prison or in exile. The Russian opposition lost its main figurehead in February, when Putin's rival Alexei Navalny died in an Arctic prison in mysterious circumstances. Yulia Navalnaya, his widow who took the helm of the movement, is one of the main organisers of the march. Unable to operate at home, the opposition is forced to relaunch abroad, where hundreds of thousands of Russians fled in the aftermath of the February 2022 invasion. Berlin -- home to thousands of anti-Putin Russians and Ukrainian refugees -- was chosen as the prime location for the march. The protest is due to kick off at 1300 GMT in the German capital's centre and will end outside the Russian embassy. Navalnaya is joining forces with two other oppositionists for the rally: former Moscow city councillor and longtime anti-Putin campaigner Ilya Yashin and Vladimir Kara-Murza, who survived two poisoning attempts. Both Yashin and Kara-Murza were freed from prison -- where they served sentences for denouncing the Ukraine invasion -- after a prisoner swap with the West this summer. "The march aims to unite everyone who stands against Vladimir Putin's aggressive war in Ukraine and political repressions in Russia," the organisers said in a statement. The opposition says it has three main demands: the "immediate withdrawal" of troops from Ukraine, the trial of Putin as a "war criminal" and the liberation of all political prisoners in Russia. - Reconciliation test - The event is also seen as a check for the movement, weakened by years of repression and suffering a huge blow with the death of Navalny. The charismatic politician was the only figure in Russia who was able in recent years to mobilise thousands of people to take to the streets against Putin. Thousands took part in demonstrations on his call in the years before Moscow's Ukraine invasion, which ushered in a new era of repression comparable with Soviet levels. Thousands also protested after Putin announced the shock invasion. At Navalny's funeral last March -- two years into a massive crackdown on dissent -- thousands also came to pay their respect. Since his death, various factions of the movement have been tearing each other apart in bitter conflicts. Navalny's team has accused the camp led by ex-oligarch Mikhail Khodorkovsky of ordering a hammer attack on one of its members. Another faction accused Navalny's anti-corruption fund of covering up the machinations of a shady banker. The simmering conflicts have frustrated supporters, losing hope in the third year of the war. - 'Consolidate forces' - Even through messages from prison, Navalny galvanised supporters and without him the movement has struggled to regain momentum in fighting the regime. Showcasing these struggles, Navalnaya admitted in an interview ahead of the march that the opposition currently had "no plan" on how to end Putin's regime or stop the war in Ukraine. But with the rally, the trio of oppositionists hope to display unity and mobilise the thousands of Russian exiles who fled to Europe, including to evade military conscription. "It is important to show we can work together to consolidate various forces in the anti-war movement," Kara-Murza said in an interview to exiled media Dozhd earlier this month. The Kremlin, which has painted oppositionists as traitors, has dismissed the march as insignificant. Its spokesman Dmitry Peskov called the march organisers "monstrously detached from their country" and said "their opinion has no importance". Memes, inspirational quotes, and even dance videos have brought President-elect Donald Trump to a new height of fame on Chinese social media since his election. On Xiaohongshu, a media platform most similar to Instagram, the search term Trump shows more than 200,000 posts on the topic and 880 million views, with recent top posts each accruing more than 72,000 views and thousands of comments. Videos of the president-elect dancing to the song YMCA by the band Village People have been circulating in Chinese cyberspace. Many commenters find the content funny, calling him a jokester or comedian, while others view it as inspirational, seeing the older soon-to-be two-time American president as a role model. Trumps popularity stems from a kind of vitality and enthusiasm that he displayed throughout his campaign, analysts said, attracting many young Chinese who grew up looking up to more somber and rigid communist idols within their own country. Videos of Elon Musk at a pre-election Trump rally have also made an impression on Chinese social media platform users. On these posts, commenters describe him as a good kind of capitalist and someone who will make America strong. 'They need an idol' These impressions come amidst a general malaise facing the Chinese economy that has sparked the young Chinese people to lie flat, meaning to cease striving for a better life in face of a competitive job market and other pressures. One comment commonly posted under many Trump-related posts reads: He is 78 years old, was hit by a bullet in the ear and bled profusely, was convicted of a felony and nearly sent to jail, had appealed over 60 times but still continued to work hard to find a job and found the best job for himself. What excuse do you have for not working hard? Liu, a writer from Jiangsu province, said Trumps difficult path back to the presidency is precisely what inspires Chinese youth when compared to the traditional Communist Party heroes. Liu only gave his surname, because talking to foreign media is dangerous, he says. They need an idol who represents the possibility of individual success. Trump fits this image: he gets stronger with each setback, continually fights back, and still works hard even at an older age, Liu said, adding that more importantly, young Chinese long for the kind of fair and just environment that has allowed Trump to succeed. Trump stands in direct contrast to many revered Chinese figures, such as Xi Jinping, Mao Zedong, and communist soldier Lei Feng a model hero in China. Their lives seem too hard and are not the kind of lives young people in China aspire to, Liu said, adding that Trump stands for something different: the individualistic, opportunistic American Dream Whether you can wear a gold bracelet before New Years is all up to you! comments one user Sleepy Orange under a campaign rally video, referencing gold as an important gift typically exchanged on the Chinese New Year. It is a symbol of wealth and prosperity. More than 2,000 people liked this comment. Liu said he also appreciates Trumps straightforwardness, as he doesnt preach lofty ideals and morals but is practical and realistic. Liu described Chinese authorities and their political slogans as "vague and empty." Popularity reflects dislike of Xi, says influencer Chen Weiyu, a Chinese media influencer living in the United States, told VOA that Trumps popularity on Chinese social media represents a deep disdain toward Chinese leaders, calling peoples engagement with his content a form of deprogramming. "Rather than admiration for Trump himself, it's more about a rejection and opposition to Xi Jinping and the Chinese Communist Party. By expressing their liking for Trump, they are in fact expressing their dislike and opposition to Xi Jinping," Chen said. She stressed that people at the bottom of society in China, struggling to survive in an economy controlled by communist elites, feel that no one is concerned about or advocating for them. In contrast, working-class individuals facing unemployment in the United States can use their votes to elect a leader who they believe will represent their interests and create a better policy environment for them. Chen also attributed the abundance of Trump content on Chinese platforms to the increasing prevalence of virtual private networks as a way of accessing information that is normally forbidden in China. However, Zhou Zuola Shuguang, one of the first Chinese citizen journalists to relocate to Taiwan, said the popularity of Trump on Chinese social media may have the "tacit approval" of the Chinese Communist Party. Beijing's censorship system is consistently strict about controlling content, so the fact that Trump-related content is able to spread widely on social media suggests that the CCP is intentionally allowing the content to be seen, Zhou told VOA. "In other words, if Trump's content appears on Chinese social media, it means that Trump is not seen as a major threat by the CCP," he said. While Trump-related content is getting clicks, not all of them are positive. Its not a good thing for Trump to come back, God bless China said a netizen in one comment. Others simply poke fun at the president-elect, the color of his hair and the way his makeup makes him look on stage. 60% of the tariffs will be given to China, how many free trade enterprises are going to be suppressed, reads another comment liked by nearly 1,000 people. Katherine Michaelson, Samuel Hui contributed to this report. After years of serving as Mali's minister of the environment, Aida M'bo now spends her time planting trees in a fight that many in the arid West African country acknowledge they are losing. "Deforestation is an important issue in Mali," she said, standing in front of the Zamblara forest. For decades it has been classified as protected, but like many forests in the vast Sahel, it could be wiped out. "It is mainly due to the excessive wood-cutting," M'bo said. Even some of her fellow tree-planters that day were to blame. Salimata Diabate, who took part in the ceremony last month, lives nearby and sells firewood from the forest in the Sikasso region, long considered Mali's breadbasket. While Diabate expressed concern about the threats to Mali's forests, she said people like her in the countryside have no choice but firewood for cooking. "Things like cooking gas and solar panels are better, but it's too expensive for rural women," she said. The loss of forests has become a pressing issue across Africa as the Sahara Desert continues to creep southward. Over the last three decades, nearly 20,000 square kilometers of forest have been lost in Mali, according to the environmental nonprofit Tree Aid. M'bo's nonprofit, Energia, is financially supported by the Great Green Wall, an initiative by African countries launched in 2007 that aims to plant trees in a nearly 8,047-kilometer line across the continent, creating a natural barrier to hold back the desert as climate change sweeps the sands south. But millions of the trees died as temperatures rose and rainfall diminished. As a result, only 4% of the Great Green Wall's original goal has been met, and an estimated $43 billion would be needed to achieve the rest. In Mali, the initiative is facing an additional challenge : the population's dependency on firewood. Lassana Coulibaly, who lives in the town of Senou near the capital, Bamako, spends his days chopping up and reselling wood he buys from people who cut it from a nearby forest. "This how we make a living on a daily basis," he said. He doesn't believe the forest will disappear. A 2019 study by the African Energy Commission found that 64% of Mali's total fuel consumption was of biomass, primarily firewood and charcoal for household use. Their sale remains legal. Despite being one of Africa's top gold producers, Mali ranks among the world's least developed nations, with almost half of its 23 million population living below the national poverty line. The problem is worse in rural areas, where subsistence farming many people's only real option for survival is threatened by armed conflict and climate change. The country has been plagued by an insurgency fought by armed groups, including some allied with al-Qaida and the Islamic State group, and two military coups since 2020. Mali is also among several countries in the Sahel that have experienced record-breaking floods this year, with more than 1,000 people killed and hundreds of thousands displaced across the region. Khady Camara, an environmental activist based in Senegal, said forests can help to weather the effects of climate change by absorbing water to prevent floods, and by absorbing carbon that would otherwise end up in the atmosphere as part of heat-trapping gas. "We need to give more priority to our forests, but we also need to set up new forests and give priority to natural regeneration," said Camara, whose organization Vacances Vertes has planted 150,000 trees in Senegal. She said the effects of climate change on the Sahel region can't be overstated, and the causes often come from far beyond the African continent. "Africa produces only 3% of greenhouse gases. Ninety percent is from the West," she said. "If we continue like this, I'm saying to myself that this will be the disappearance of Africa, and of Africans." Joe Biden on Sunday became the first sitting American president to set foot in the Amazon rainforest, as the incoming Trump administration seems poised to scale back the U.S. commitment to combating climate change. The massive Amazon, which is about the size of Australia, stores huge amounts of the world's carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that drives climate change when it's released into the atmosphere. But development is rapidly depleting the world's largest tropical rainforest. Joined by Carlos Nobre, a Nobel-Prize winning scientist and expert on how climate change is impacting the Amazon, and Biden climate adviser John Podesta, Biden lifted in his helicopter over a stretch of the rainforest, for a good view of the shallowing of waterways, fire damage and a wildlife refuge. He was also getting a peek at where the Rio Negro and Amazon rivers meet. Biden will then meet local and indigenous leaders and visit an Amazonian museum as he looks to highlight his commitment to the preservation of the region. His administration announced plans last year for a $500 million contribution to the Amazon Fund, the most significant international cooperation effort to preserve the rainforest, primarily financed by Norway. So far, the U.S. government said it has provided $50 million, and the White House announced Sunday an additional $50 million contribution to the fund. "It's significant for a sitting president to visit the Amazon. ... This shows a personal commitment from the president," said Suely Araujo, former head of the Brazilian environmental protection agency and public policy coordinator with the nonprofit Climate Observatory. "That said, we can't expect concrete results from this visit." She doubts that a "single penny" will go to the Amazon Fund once Donald Trump is back in the White House. The incoming Trump administration is highly unlikely to prioritize the Amazon or anything related to climate change. The Republican president-elect already said he would again pull out of the Paris agreement, a global pact forged to avert the threat of catastrophic climate change, after Biden recommitted to the agreement. Trump has cast climate change as a "hoax" and said he will eliminate energy efficiency regulations by the Biden administration. Still, the Biden White House on Sunday announced a series of new efforts aimed at bolstering the Amazon and stemming the impact of climate change. Among the actions is the launch of a finance coalition that looks to spur at least $10 billion in public and private investment for land restoration and eco-friendly economic projects by 2030, and a $37.5 million loan to the organization Mombak Gestora de Recursos Ltda. to support the large-scale planting of native tree species on degraded grasslands in Brazil. Biden is also set to sign a U.S. proclamation designating Nov. 17 as International Conservation Day, and will highlight in remarks during the visit that the U.S. is on track to reach $11 billion in spending on international climate financing in 2024, a six-fold increase from when he started his term. The Amazon is home to Indigenous communities and 10% of Earth's biodiversity. It also regulates moisture across South America. About two-thirds of the Amazon lies within Brazil, and scientists say its devastation poses a catastrophic threat to the planet. The forest has been suffering two years of historic drought that have dried up waterways, isolated thousands of riverine communities and hindered riverine dwellers' ability to fish. It's also made way for wildfires that have burned an area larger than Switzerland and choked cities near and far with smoke. When Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva took office last year, he signaled a shift in environmental policy from his predecessor, far-right Jair Bolsonaro. Bolsonaro prioritized agribusiness expansion over forest protection and weakened environmental agencies, prompting deforestation to surge to a 15-year-high. Lula has pledged "zero deforestation" by 2030, though his term runs through the end of 2026. Forest loss in Brazil's Amazon dropped by 30.6% in the 12 months through July from a year earlier, bringing deforestation to its lowest level in nine years, according to official data released last week. In that 12-month span, the Amazon lost 6,288 square kilometers (2,428 square miles), roughly the size of the U.S. state of Delaware. But that data fails to capture the surge of destruction this year, which will only be included in next year's reading. Despite the success in curbing Amazon deforestation, Lula's government has been criticized by environmentalists for backing projects that could harm the region, such as paving a highway that cuts from an old-growth area and could encourage logging, oil drilling near the mouth of the Amazon River and building a railway to transport soy to Amazonian ports. Biden is making the Amazon visit as part of a six-day trip to South America, the first to the continent of his presidency. He traveled from Lima, Peru, where he took part in the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit and met with Chinese President Xi Jinping. After his stop in Manaus, he was heading to Rio de Janeiro for this year's Group of 20 leaders summit. A 22-year-old Chinese woman's account of how she was lured into the country's illegal surrogacy industry before suffering a miscarriage went viral on Chinese social media this week and raised heated debates over women's rights and social inequality. Surrogacy is banned in China, and authorities have vowed to severely crack down on illegal practices, including the buying and selling of sperm, egg and surrogacy services. The incident comes as Chinese authorities grapple with how to increase the country's birth rate as more young couples put off having children or opt to have none. China's population fell for a second consecutive year in 2023 and Beijing in October rallied local governments to direct resources towards fixing China's population crisis to create a "birth-friendly" society. Zhang Jing, 22, told state-backed Phoenix TV magazine that she donated her eggs out of financial desperation and then agreed to "rent out her uterus" to be impregnated for a total of 30,000 yuan ($4,152). If she "successfully" delivered the baby, she would be paid a total of 240,000 yuan. At five months pregnant, she experienced severe complications and had to have an abortion. Zhang's story amassed more than 86 million views and 10,000 comments on Chinese social media platform Weibo, with the hashtag "#2000s-born Surrogate Miscarriage Girl Speaks Out#." The majority of comments strongly opposed surrogacy. Some warned that legalizing surrogacy in China could lead to increased competition that would lower compensation and further devalue women. "No woman could escape this if surrogacy were legalized," one user wrote, while another said, "Legalizing surrogacy would drive down prices and commodify women." Zhang's story ignited calls for a more thorough crackdown on illegal surrogacy by authorities, with some commenters warning that allowing the black market to continue to operate could even normalize human organ trafficking. "Life should not be traded as a commodity," one user wrote. "If this extends to the sale of organs, it will only get darker and darker, and women will have no future." The incident comes a few weeks after a 28-year-old pregnant woman who acted as a surrogate in China's southwestern city of Chengdu was allegedly abandoned by her surrogacy agency. Early results indicate a majority of Gabon's 860,000 registered voters cast ballots in favor of a new constitution that could end military rule, according to state TV reports. The results of Saturday's constitutional referendum could end the transitional military government that ousted the Bongo family dynasty after nearly 60 years of rule. An official tally is expected later. Officials say the adoption of the new constitution is one of the major promises made by General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema after seizing power in what Gabon's military leaders call a bloodless August 30 coup that liberated the central African state from political bondage. Nguema seized power from Ali Bongo, who was declared the winner of Gabon's August 26 elections with more than 64% of the vote. Gabons military said the coup marked an end to the nearly 56-year Bongo dynasty, during which Omer Bongo Ondimba ruled Gabon for 42 years since 1967 and handed power to his son, Ali Bongo, in 2009. Gabons military said it deployed troops Saturday to towns and villages and reinforced a dusk-to-dawn curfew from midnight to 5 a.m. to make sure civilians were protected before, during and after the voting. Serge Zeng Ango is executive secretary of the National Union, a political party that campaigned for Gabon citizens to vote in favor of a new constitution during the referendum. Ango said the new constitution will put an end to any chance of another political dynasty where power was passed from father to son, as during the Bongo era. Unlike in the past when power was confiscated by a few people, said Ango, the new constitution is reassuring that ultimate power resides in civilians who can freely vote for their leaders and contribute to the development of their nation. He said those who voted in favor of Gabon's new constitution are happy that article 42 of the law states that at the end of the term of office, the president, his or her spouse and descendants cannot be candidates for succession. But opposition and civil society say the draft constitution should have prohibited military ruler General Nguema from running for president. They said military leaders prepared the constitution to grant excessive power to the president because they want Nguema to maintain his grip on power. Jean-Victor Mouanga Mbadinga is a former presidential aspirant and leader of the Movement for Social Emancipation of Gabon's civilians, one of Gabon's political parties. He said by suppressing the post of prime minister, the fundamental law of 173 articles transforms Gabon into a country where the president has too much power. He said it is unfortunate that Gabon is increasing the presidential term limit from 5 to 7 years, renewable once, when in the United States of America a world democracy that the central African state should emulate presidents serve for no longer than two elected 4-year terms. Mbadinga said it is abnormal for Gabon's constitution to give powers to the president to either dissolve parliament, which is the legislative arm of government, and to hire and fire a vice president at will. Gabon's opposition and civil society said they will challenge the outcome of the referendum in the courts but did not give further details. Gabon's government said Saturday's referendum was free, fair and transparent. Officials said the new constitution would protect individual liberties, unlike during the Bongo father and son era. International observers from the African Union and the Central African Economic and Monetary Community said that, except for voting that began late due to the late opening of polling stations, the elections were peaceful and transparent. Hundreds of voters turned out at polling stations starting at 6 a.m. local time, according to observers. Gabon's military leaders said final results of the constitutional referendum will be released by the constitutional court, but neither provided a specific time or date. After the publication of referendum results, Nguema said, Gabon will prepare its electoral laws in February, create an elections management body, and organize presidential, parliamentary and local elections in August 2025 to end a two-year transitional period. The military ruler has not said if Nguema will be a candidate or not, but the constitution in this referendum does not prevent him from running for president. Climate change is responsible for nearly a fifth of the record number of dengue cases worldwide this year, U.S. researchers said Saturday, seeking to shine a light on how rising temperatures help spread disease. Researchers have been working to demonstrate how human-driven climate change directly contributes to individual extreme weather events such as the hurricanes, fires, droughts and floods that have battered the world this year. But linking how global warming affects health such as driving outbreaks or spreading disease remains a new field. "Dengue is a really good first disease to focus on because it's very climate sensitive," Erin Mordecai, an infectious disease ecologist at Stanford University, told AFP. The viral disease, which is transmitted via bites from infected mosquitoes, causes fever and body aches and can, in some cases, be deadly. It has typically been confined to tropical and sub-tropical areas but rising temperatures have led to mosquitoes encroaching on new areas, taking dengue with them. For the new study, which has not yet been peer-reviewed, a U.S. team of researchers looked at how hotter temperatures were linked to dengue infections in 21 countries across Asia and the Americas. On average, around 19% of current dengue cases around the world are "attributable to climate warming that has already happened," said Mordecai, the senior author of the pre-print study. Temperatures between 20-29 degrees Celsius (68-84 degrees Fahrenheit) are ideal for spreading dengue, Mordecai said. Elevated areas of Peru, Mexico, Bolivia and Brazil that will warm into this temperature range could see dengue cases rising by as much as 200% in the next 25 years, the researchers found. The analysis estimated that at least 257 million people are currently living in areas where global warming could double the rate of dengue during that period. This danger is just "another reason you should care about climate change," Mordecai said. More than 12.7 million dengue cases were recorded worldwide this year as of September, nearly double 2023's total record, according to World Health Organization figures. But Mordecai said a "massive amount of under-reporting" meant the real number was likely to be closer to 100 million. The research was presented at the annual meeting of the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene in the city of New Orleans, in the U.S. state of Louisiana. Another set of research, also not peer-reviewed, raised hopes of a potential tool to help fight the rise of dengue. It involves breeding mosquitoes infected with a common bacteria called Wolbachia that can block the insect's ability to transmit dengue. Five years ago, Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes were introduced across most of the Brazilian city of Niteroi. When Brazil endured its worst-ever dengue outbreak this year, there was only a small increase in dengue in Niteroi, they found. The number of cases was also 90% lower than before the Wolbachia mosquitoes were deployed and "nothing like what was happening in the rest of Brazil," said Katie Anders of the World Mosquito Program. That the city fared so well showed that "Wolbachia can provide long-term protection for communities against the increasingly frequent surges in dengue that we're seeing globally," Anders said. The researchers said they have partnered with the Brazilian government to build a Wolbachia mosquitoes production facility in hopes of protecting millions of people. When Sara first arrived at her rescuers' home, she was sick, tired, and was covered in ringworms and signs of abuse all over her little furry body. After spending two months in a small Beirut apartment with an animal rights group, the 4-and-half-month-old lion cub arrived Friday at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa after a long journey on a yacht and planes, escaping both Israeli airstrikes and abusive owners. Sara is the fifth lion cub to be evacuated from Lebanon by rescue group Animals Lebanon since Hezbollah and Israel began exchanging fire a day after the October 7 attack in southern Israel by Hamas that ignited the war in Gaza last year. Animals Lebanon first discovered Sara on social media channels in July. Her owner, a Lebanese man in the ancient city of Baalbek, posted bombastic videos of himself parading with the cub on TikTok and Instagram. Under Lebanese law, it is prohibited to own wild and exotic animals. The lion cub was "really just being used as showing off," said Jason Mier, executive director of Animals Lebanon. In mid-September, the group finally retrieved her after filing a case with the police and judiciary, who interrogated her owner and forced him to give up the feline. Soon after that, Israel launched an offensive against the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah after nearly a year of low-level conflict and Baalbek came under heavy bombardment. Mier and his team were able to extract Sara from Baalbek weeks before Israel launched its aerial bombardment campaign on the ancient city, and move her to an apartment in Beirut's busy commercial Hamra district. She was supposed to fly to South Africa in October, but international airlines stopped flights to Lebanon as Israeli jets and drones hit sites close to the country's only airport. Hezbollah began firing rockets across the border into Israel in support of its ally, Hamas, on October 8, 2023, a day after Palestinian militants staged the deadly surprise incursion into southern Israel. Israel responded with shelling and airstrikes. Beginning in mid-September, Israel launched an intense aerial bombardment of much of Lebanon, followed by a ground invasion. Rescue saves trapped pets Before the conflict, Animals Lebanon was active in halting animal trafficking and the exotic pet trade, saving over two dozen big cats from imprisonment in lavish homes and sending them to wildlife sanctuaries. Since the war started, Animals Lebanon has also been rescuing pets that have been trapped in damaged apartments as hundreds of thousands of Lebanese fled bombardment almost 1,000 over the past month alone. "Lots are still in our care because the owners of these animals are still displaced," Mier said. "So we can't expect the person to take this animal back when he might be living on the street or in a school." Before the conflict escalated, the rights group was able to move around the country more freely as the fighting largely remained in southern Lebanon along the border with Israel. But things became more difficult as airstrikes became more frequent and spread over wider swathes of the country. Unaware of the war around her, Sara thrived. She was fed a platter of raw meat daily and grew to 40 kilograms (88 pounds). She cuddled every morning with Mier's wife Maggie, also an animal rights activist. But the activists faced a major obstacle: How would they get her out of Lebanon? Donations fund her journey Animals Lebanon collected donations from supporters and rights groups around the world to put Sara on a small yacht to take her to Cyprus. From there, she flew to the United Arab Emirates before her long journey ended in Cape Town. Days before her evacuation Sara played in one of the bedrooms at Mier's apartment, with cushions and chew toys scattered. Thursday at dawn, she arrived to the port of Dbayeh, just north of Beirut. Mier and his team were relieved, but also struggling to hold back their tears at her departure. Mier anticipates Sara will be held for monitoring and disease-control, but soon will be part of a community of other lions. "Then she'll be integrated with two recent lions that we've sent from Lebanon, so she'll make a nice group of three hopefully," he said. "That's where she will live out the rest of her life. That is the best option for her." Lebanese armed group Hezbollah confirmed its media relations chief Mohammad Afif was killed by an Israeli strike on a building in central Beirut on Sunday. Israel has rarely hit senior Hezbollah personnel who do not have clear military roles, and its air strikes have mostly targeted Beirut's southern suburbs where the group has its heaviest presence. Israel's military, which earlier declined to comment, issued a statement late on Sunday reporting it had "eliminated" Afif. The Lebanese health ministry said the strike had killed one and injured three. A second, separate strike later on Sunday hit Mar Elias street, another central area rarely targeted by Israeli bombs, Hezbollah's Al-Manar TV reported. The Lebanese health ministry said that strike killed at least two people and wounded 22. Hezbollah and Israel have been trading fire for more than a year, since the group began launching rockets at Israeli military targets on Oct. 8, 2023. That was a day after its Palestinian ally Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking another 250 hostage, Israeli authorities say. In late September, Israel expanded its military campaign in Lebanon, heavily bombing the south and east and the southern suburbs of Beirut alongside ground incursions on the border. Israel's campaign in Lebanon has in the last year killed 3,841 people and wounded nearly 15,000 others, the Lebanese health ministry said on Sunday, a toll that did not distinguish between civilians and combatants. Hezbollah rockets fired across the border have killed dozens of Israelis, including soldiers and civilians, Israel says. Israels counteroffensive in Gaza has killed more than 43,000 Palestinians, according to the territory's health ministry, which does not distinguish between combatants and civilians in its count. In addition to targeting Hezbollah, the escalation has killed several soldiers of the Lebanese military, including two who died on Sunday when Israel attacked an army post in the southern town of Al-Mari, the Lebanese army said on X. Two other soldiers were wounded, it said. The strike in Beirut targeting the Hezbollah official hit the Ras al-Nabaa neighborhood, where many people displaced from the southern suburbs by Israeli bombardment have sought refuge. The Lebanese security sources said a building housing offices of the Ba'ath Party had been hit, and the head of the party in Lebanon, Ali Hijazi, told the Lebanese broadcaster Al-Jadeed that Afif had been in the building. Ambulances could be heard rushing to the scene, and guns were fired to prevent crowds approaching. The Lebanese broadcaster showed video of a building whose upper floors had collapsed and civil defense workers at the scene. Afif was a longtime media adviser to Hezbollah secretary-general Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli air attack on the southern suburbs of Beirut on Sept. 27. He managed Hezbollah's Al-Manar television station for several years before taking over the group's media office. Afif hosted several press conferences for journalists among rubble in Beirut's southern suburbs. In his most recent comments to reporters on Nov. 11, he said Israeli troops had been unable to hold any territory in Lebanon, and that Hezbollah had enough weapons and supplies to fight a long war. Josep Borrell took a deep breath as the train rumbled across Ukraine at the end of his final visit after five tumultuous years as the EU's foreign policy chief. "I feel a certain nostalgia," the 77-year-old Spaniard said, hunching forward to be heard over the noise of the tracks. "We've been working closely with these people, who are great people, who are fighting for their survival, he said. And who knows what's going to happen with them?" The job of EU top diplomat has often been seen as thankless trying to coordinate the sometimes radically opposed positions of 27 countries, each jealously guarding their own foreign policy. But Borrell's tenure, wrapping up next month, has thrust him into the center of some of the most consequential events in recent world history. He has helped steer the bloc's response to the COVID pandemic, Russia's invasion of Ukraine and war in the Middle East. Ukraine war It was Moscow's all-out assault in February 2022 that upended European security and came to dominate his time at the helm. Borrell, a Socialist former Spanish foreign minister with more than 40 years of political experience, immediately pushed for the EU to pay for weapons deliveries to a country at war, a longstanding red line for the bloc. "This was a breakthrough in the way we behaved." Since then, the EU has spent billions more on arming Ukraine and Russia has been hit by repeated rounds of unprecedented sanctions despite regular obstacles from reluctant EU states such as Hungary. While the Ukraine crisis has revealed the EU's willingness to act, the war in Gaza by contrast has been the most painful episode for Borrell. Since Israel unleashed its devastating offensive after the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas, the EU has had no influence to curb the suffering, with its member states deeply divided over the conflict. He said the refusal by member states supportive of Israel to do more has damaged the EU on the global stage. "My biggest frustration is not being able to make it understood that a violation of international law is a violation of international law, whoever does it," Borrell said. 'Break taboos' The EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs is constrained by how far member states are willing to go, and a simple statement can take days of wrangling. Borrell has frequently angered EU capitals by going beyond their agreed positions. "One has to break taboos," he said. "Agreed language most of the time says nothing. We agree on saying nothing." Critics, and there are plenty in sharp-elbowed Brussels, say Borrell has not helped his case, with numerous gaffes and some tactical missteps. A low point of his tenure was a disastrous trip to Moscow in early 2021 when he was caught in a diplomatic ambush and failed to push back against Russia's foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov. But as Moscow's assault on Ukraine played out, he proved a fast learner, said Gabrielius Landsbergis, foreign minister of Lithuania, one of the Baltic states wary of nearby Russia. "We witnessed a transformation from Russia-threat agnostic into Russia hawk who could very well come from the Baltics," he told AFP. 'All things pass' On Borrells final trip to Ukraine, he held talks with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, visited a drone factory, and headed to a defensive position near Russia's border. "It generates a lot of adrenaline," he said, to explain how he has kept up with the pace. Despite the weight on his shoulders, he said there have been moments of joy. He pointed to the warm welcome he received on his final Ukraine visit, appreciation from some Palestinians and being able to help repatriate hundreds of thousands of Europeans during the pandemic. As he leaves the stage, the global situation looks perilous, with a new U.S. administration heralding challenges for Europe, Russia advancing in Ukraine and war raging in the Middle East. Borrell is to be replaced in the job by former Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, 47, who is expected to bring a more tightly controlled style. "She will perform very well, and she will be very happy, and she will suffer less than me," he said. "I wish her the best." Mali's civilian Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga called Saturday on the country's military leaders to discuss ending the so-called "transition" period, in a rare criticism of the ruling junta. The country has been ruled by the military since successive coups in 2020 and 2021. In June 2022, the junta pledged to hold elections and hand power back to civilians by the end of March 2024, but then postponed the vote indefinitely. "The Transition was supposed to end on March 26, 2024. But it was postponed indefinitely, unilaterally, without debate within the government," Maiga told supporters of his M5-RFP movement, in a speech published on Facebook by local media. "Even today, there is no debate on the issue. The prime minister is reduced to relying on press rumors or a haphazard interpretation of the actions of the minister of territorial administration and decentralization," he added. "The specter of confusion and confusion hangs over the transition, with, even if I have to repeat myself, the risks of serious challenges and risks of going backwards," continued Maiga. However, he praised the armed forces and called for unity and "respect for political authorities, the guarantor of strength and stability." In May, the M5-RFP movement issued a statement openly criticizing Malis military leaders after they failed to meet a deadline to return power to civilians. An ally of Maiga who signed the statement was sentenced to a year in prison in July, before being released in September after his sentence was commuted. Eleven people who had criticized the junta's actions were arrested in June for "conspiring against legal authorities." Since 2012, Mali has been plunged into a political and security crisis, fueled by attacks by jihadi groups and other armed groups, as well as clashes with separatist forces in the north of the country. Sri Lankas Marxist leaning president has won a sweeping mandate to fulfill his pledges to combat corruption and implement pro-poor reforms, but he faces huge challenges in a country whose economy is still fragile, analysts say. Anura Kumara Dissanayakes coalition, the National Peoples Power, or NPP, party, secured an unprecedented two-thirds majority in the 225-member Parliament in snap elections held a year ahead of schedule. The parliamentary polls held seven weeks after he emerged victorious in presidential voting reinforced the remarkable shift in Sri Lankan politics, where mainstream parties that led the country for decades have been reduced to the margins as people put faith in a political outsider to bring about transformative change. Dissanayakes coalition won 159 seats a dramatic jump from the three seats his party held earlier. However, that commanding majority may still not be enough to steer Sri Lanka along the path he has promised. He is going to encounter bumps on all his agenda which is extremely ambitious. On the economy, there is no easy route to a more equitable and a faster-growing economy. In terms of good governance and anticorruption, they are going to run into a lot of vested interests in business, in politics, in the bureaucracy, in the police. It would not be easy for saints -- it is not going to be easy for this government, Alan Keenan, senior Sri Lanka consultant at the International Crisis Group said. Dissanayakes first task will be to ease the burden on millions from austerity measures imposed by a $2.9 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund. The IMF deal brought the economy back from the brink of collapse, but the slashed subsidies and higher taxes imposed to stabilize government finances brought hardship to millions. They will have to provide relief to the people who have felt the tremendous rise in the cost of living. There are great expectations that this government will address that, according to Devaka Gunawardena, research fellow at the Social Scientists Association in Colombo. But that will require some form of renegotiation of the IMF agreement. If they continue with the deal, then they will have to think of other alternative ways of stimulating the economy. This is where the new government will have to thread the needle now. Dissanayake has said that he is committed to the IMF program and any changes would be undertaken in consultation with the fund. An IMF team is beginning a visit to Colombo Sunday to review the reform program. However, the room to maneuver is limited in a country that is still mired in debt. So far, the government has marginally reduced fuel prices and distributed subsidies to farmers and fishermen. Besides delivering such small benefits, it will be difficult to make any significant shifts or show major economic benefits to people in a country that has little money to spend, according to analysts. Little is also known about the dynamics of the NPP the leftist coalition that Dissanayake put together ahead of the presidential polls. It consists of his Marxist party, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna, professionals, trade unions, women and youth groups. Many of those elected will be first-time lawmakers new to politics. Having to appease various interests under this big-tent party will be a challenge for the government, according to Rajni Gamage, a research fellow at the Institute of South Asian Studies at the National University of Singapore. The NPP government will have to strike a balance between the ... economic requirements of the IMF program and the more center-left oriented demands of trade unions and civil society groups who are part of the coalition, she said. Another litmus test he faces is meeting his promise to transform the countrys political culture people widely blamed misgovernance and graft by previous leaders for driving Sri Lanka, once ranked as a middle-income country, into bankruptcy. Thank you to all who voted for a renaissance," Dissanayake said on social media platform X on Friday after the results were announced. For many of his voters, that renaissance involves ensuring accountability for alleged corruption and a government that is more in touch with the masses Dissanayake is the son of a laborer, whereas past leaders came from elite political families. According to political analysts, this is a low-hanging fruit that could yield political dividends for the new government. If they can make progress in either achieving accountability for big corruption cases and tracking down the assets supposedly stolen and stacked away in foreign countries, or if they can show people that they do politics differently, they are not arrogant and do not just drive around in big SUVs with lots of security guards, that will go a long way to satisfy people, even if they dont see their lives improve materially or economically, according to Keenan. However, he cautions that too may not be easy. Even if they say they want to change things, at the end, Dissanayakes coalition comes from the same political culture, so it remains to be seen if they can do things differently, he said. Across war-torn Myanmar, rebel commanders, aid workers and cyber-scammers alike are turning to billionaire Elon Musks Starlink satellites to stay in touch with each other and with the outside world amid some of the most severe internet restrictions. Starlink is not licensed in Myanmar, and the military junta running much of the country has banned its use, yet orbiting satellites and smugglers on the ground still manage to meet some of the growing demand. For many, Starlink is now the only viable solution for instant internet, an analyst for the Myanmar Internet Project, a local research and advocacy group, told VOA on condition that his name not be used for fear of retaliation from the junta. The group has counted more than 300 internet shutdowns across the country since the military seized power from an elected government in a 2021 coup that set off a grinding civil war with no end in sight. It says nearly a quarter of Myanmars 330 townships are now completely cut off. In its latest Freedom on the Net survey, rights group Freedom House gave Myanmar its worst score among the 72 countries it ranked for obstacles to internet access. That has left people across large swaths of Myanmar scrambling for alternative channels to get online, and for a growing number of them that means Starlink. A wholly owned subsidiary of Musks SpaceX aerospace firm, Starlink operates over 6,000 satellites providing internet access from low Earth orbit, by far the most of any satellite-based internet provider. Though the company does not officially serve Myanmar, spillover bandwidth from satellites serving other countries allows Myanmar to tap in, the Myanmar Internet Project analyst said. The junta is meanwhile losing control over growing swathes of the country, making its ban on the service increasingly moot. With the help of smugglers and a porous border, Starlink units have been trickling in from neighboring Thailand. The Myanmar Internet Project estimates there are now well over 3,000 Starlink dishes up and running across the country. In some areas the regular phone calls even cannot be made, so Starlink is the only viable option, the analyst said. And for people on the ground, information is now life or death. You cannot know if the air strikes are coming to you, you cannot show the people what is happening and what you are facing in Myanmar if you dont have internet. The Free Burma Rangers, a humanitarian aid group that works mostly along Myanmars border with Thailand, was among the first to start using Starlink in the country. The groups director, David Eubank, told VOA it now uses over 30 of the units and has donated about 20 more to local hospitals, clinics and schools. Starlink has enabled us to have a signal where weve never had one before, and in the areas of blackout [it has been] very effective, Eubank said. Its not just us, he added. Theres clinics and hospitals and other humanitarian groups that rely on Starlink. Its absolutely crucial, a life-saving and life-giving way to share information of all kinds a way to give early warning, a way to get help in, and a way to tell a story, a way to communicate among loved ones, a way to escape. Its the main thing. Eubank recalled a case in Kayah state from June of a landmine victim whose wounds were beyond the skills of the Free Burma Rangers medic at the scene. So, using the Starlink we contacted our surgeon friend in Germany, whod been working with us before, and showed photos and videos and worked back and forth through the Starlink, and the surgeon guided this medic to make the procedures necessary to save what was left of the leg and save this young mans life. The satellite service has also become incredibly useful to the many armed groups fighting the junta where there never was internet service or where mobile towers have been disabled or knocked out, Richard Horsey, senior adviser for the International Crisis Group, told VOA. Reliable internet access is very important for command and control of forces, for operational planning for example, Google Maps and other providers of satellite imagery and other purposes such as early warning of airstrikes, he told said. Among the rebel groups making use of Starlink is the Karenni National Defense Force, a coalition of armed groups fighting the junta across Kayah. KNDF spokesman The Eh Soe told VOA that soldiers on the front lines still rely mostly on radio, partly due to the high power demands and the costs of Starlink units. While still the cheapest satellite option available, a base model that officially retails for $599 is now going for up to eight times that on Myanmars black market. Behind the front lines, though, The Eh Soe said some KNDF commanders are using Starlink to plan and coordinate, and to stay in touch with the outside world. Many of the countrys resistance groups rely on friends and family abroad to help fund their operations. The Eh Soe said the system is also being used to help run the opposition government being set up across the state to replace the junta by the Karenni Interim Executive Council, which includes KNDF commanders. Starlink is the only way you can use the internet right now, he said, and it is quite important to be connected. Along with the rebels and humanitarians, some criminals are catching on as well. In a report on Southeast Asias cybercrime threat last month, the United States Institute of Peace, a U.S. government-funded think tank, said signals intelligence has shown compounds in Myanmar from which transnational crime syndicates are defrauding victims across the globe pivoting to Starlink satellite systems. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime says it has found tens of online vendors in the region selling third-party Starlink units explicitly for cyber-fraud operations. While the satellite service is still the exception for internet access among the regions cyber-scammers, it does appear to be gaining a following and will likely continue to, said Benedikt Hofmann, the UNODCs deputy representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific. Like other technologies, it is definitely becoming a more important tool for criminals to expand this business and shield their operations from external pressure, he told VOA. He said that in turn may raise calls for Starlink to cut Myanmar off or spur neighboring countries to get tougher on smugglers. Authorities in Thailand have seized dozens of Starlink units on their way to Myanmar and made several arrests so far this year. The Myanmar Internet Project analyst says the growing demand may also overwhelm the available bandwidth at some point, slowing service to a crawl. SpaceX did not reply to VOAs requests for comment. A new set of global carbon credit trade market standards has been agreed to during the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, or COP29, following years of deadlock. Some analysts say that under the guidelines, a bigger number of entities could join a more regulated voluntary carbon credit trading system to reduce emissions. Known as Article 6.4, delegates agreed on the rules for establishing a system that allows trade in carbon credit between individual countries and companies, under the supervision of a centralized U.N. body. These include how to validate, verify and issue credits. Another option, known as Article 6.2, allows countries to set their own terms to trade carbon credits bilaterally. Countries werent able to agree on the standards for either option before COP29. Under the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 2 degrees Celsius compared to pre-industrial levels by the end of the century, countries have committed to green goals, including slashing carbon emissions. The new deal could reduce the cost of implementing national climate plans by $250 billion per year by enabling cooperation across borders, the COP29 presidency said in a statement, which hailed the outcome as a game-changing tool to direct resources to the developing world. Controversial move The agreement is more a recognition from countries of the new rules, but negotiations are still ongoing and details are still being worked out so they are not fixed, according to Je-liang Liou, researcher at the Chung-Hua Institute for Economic Research in Taiwan. In the previous COP, the supervisory body usually drafted a bill for countries to discuss and decide if they approve it or not. But this year, the body of Article 6.4 approved their own draft before COP29 started so it became more of a situation for countries to give their votes, Liou explained to VOA. The hasty process drew ire from some countries negotiators, including Tuvalus. It said that adopting decisions without prior consultations by the governing bodies does not reflect the Paris Agreements party-driven process, according to the International Institute for Sustainable Development. Some climate advocates also said the agreement isnt a success, as regulations have been an issue for voluntary carbon credit trading in the past. We should be very concerned in the Global South, especially if we dont have sufficient safeguards in place to protect against the possibility of land grabs, human rights abuses, threats to subsistence and forest-based livelihoods, gender and indigenous interests, Tara Nair van Ryneveld, climate policy coordinator at the Southern African Faith Communities Environment Institute, or SAFCEI, told VOA News. She cautioned against carbon credit trading as part of false solutions that distract from work to be done on phasing out fossil fuels. Last year, Human Rights Watch found that the carbon offsetting projects that Cambodias government agreed to, the Southern Cardamom REDD+ Project, violated the rights of the indigenous Chong people. Authorities reportedly made decisions on incorporating villages into a national park two years before consulting the community. Rights abuses aside, amid the prospect of companies joining in for carbon trading, voluntary carbon offsetting projects from companies were revealed to be ineffective in serving their purpose, according to a 2023 investigation from The Guardian newspaper and trade watchdog Corporate Accountability. Nearly four in five of the top carbon offset projects are considered worthless as they cant guarantee cutting greenhouse gases, the report found. Despite the criticisms, Article 6.4 can be a push toward stronger regulation and accountability and bolster transparency in climate finance, according to Luca Taschini, director of the Centre for Business, Climate Change and Sustainability at the University of Edinburgh. Expanded inclusion For non-U.N. member regions like Taiwan that have long been excluded from discussions and the country-to-country trading system, the expanded system under Article 6.4 can be positive news, Liou said. This allows companies to invest in projects, potentially allowing its participation, he added. Taiwan isnt eligible for bilateral carbon credit trading because its not a U.N. member party, so it wasnt able to join in directly to purchase credits from developing countries and fulfill our climate commitment, but Article 6.4, compared to Article 6.2, allows Taiwan a higher chance to trade carbon credits internationally, he elaborated. Liou said the expanded carbon credit system - if set up and starts next year - can boost governments climate ambitions, amid nations looming submission deadline for a new climate plan by February 2025. Self-ruled Taiwan imports almost all of its energy from other countries. Under its climate goal to source 15 percent of its power from renewables by 2025 and reaching net-zero in 2050, slashing emissions in the medium term can be challenging and carbon trade can be beneficial for the island, according to Liou. Taschini said that Article 6 allows countries to invest in actions beyond their borders and raise global ambition. This is because, even if all NDCs [national determined contributions] are met, we will still fall short of our climate goals, he explained. The years largest climate conference is set to end November 22. Some information for this article came from Reuters. Artifacts and human remains taken by a Norwegian explorer and anthropologist in the late 1940s are being returned by a museum in Oslo to Chile's remote territory of Easter Island in the mid-Pacific, the Kon-Tiki Museum said Wednesday. In 1947, explorer Thor Heyerdahl sailed on a log raft named Kon-Tiki from Peru to Polynesia in 101 days to prove his theory that the South Sea Islands were settled by seafarers from South America. He brought 5,600 objects back from Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui. This is the third time objects taken by him are being returned. Many have been stored and displayed at the Kon-Tiki Museum in Oslo, Norway's capital, and some were given back in 1986 and others 2006. The return has been a collaboration between the museum, Chile and Rapa Nui's local authorities. "My grandfather would have been proud of what we are about to achieve," said Liv Heyerdahl, head of the museum and the explorer's granddaughter. She told the Norwegian news agency NTB that the objects were brought to Norway "with a promise that they would one day be returned." Among those that are being returned this time around are human remains called Ivi Tepuna and sculpted stones. A nine-person delegation had traveled to Norway this week to collect the items. Four of them spent the night at the Oslo museum, alongside the remains as part of a ritual ceremony to take back the spirits of the remains. "First one must awaken the spirits, and then speak to them in our original language. Food is then prepared to eat a meal with them, where the smell of the food goes to the spirits," a member of the delegation, Laura Tarita Rapu Alarcon, told NTB. "It is important that those who own the culture are involved in the process," Liv Heyerdahl was quoted as saying by NTB. "Of course these remains should be returned, and it feels right because they belong to the Rapa Nui." In 2019, an agreement was signed in Santiago, Chile, during a visit by Norway's King Harald. However, the COVID-19 pandemic stopped all activities in 2020, the museum said. Harald met with the Rapa Nui delegation on Tuesday. A book about Thor Heyerdahl's voyage he died in 2002 at the age of 87 has become an international bestseller, and his film of the journey won an Academy Award for best documentary in 1951. Rapa Nui is best known for the hundreds of moai monolithic human figures carved centuries ago by this remote Pacific island's Rapanui people. Covering about 164 square kilometers and home to about 7,700 people, half of them with Rapa Nui ancestry, Easter Island was formed at least 750,000 years ago by volcanic eruptions and is one of the world's most isolated inhabited islands. Located 3,700 kilometers from South America, Rapa Nui was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. In 2019, it was officially renamed "Rapa Nui-Easter Island" from its previous name of just Easter Island. Prominent Russian opposition figures led a march of at least 1,000 people in central Berlin Sunday, criticizing Russian President Vladimir Putin and his war in Ukraine and calling for democracy in Russia. Behind a banner that read "No Putin. No War," the protesters were led by Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of top Putin critic Alexei Navalny, as well as Ilya Yashin and Vladimir Kara-Murza, who were freed from Russian detention in a high-profile prisoner exchange this summer. Shouting "Russia without Putin" and other chants in Russian, the demonstrators held up signs with a wide array of messages on a red background, including "Putin = War" and "Putin is a murderer" in German. Some marched with the flags of Russia or Ukraine, as well as a white-blue-white flag used by some Russian opposition groups. Organizers said the march began near Potsdamer Platz and went through the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie and was expected to end outside the Russian Embassy. "The march demands the immediate withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine, the trial of Vladimir Putin as a war criminal, and the release of all political prisoners in Russia," the protesters said in a statement. Yashin, in a statement before the demonstration, said demonstrators were "using the freedom we have here in Berlin to show the world: A peaceful, free, and civilized Russia exists." Navalnaya, Yashin and Kara-Murza have all billed Sunday's rally as a show of unity at a time when recent rounds of acrimony have roiled the anti-war camp. Russia's exiled anti-war opposition has so far largely failed to speak with one voice and present a clear plan of action. The landmark East-West prisoner swap in August freed key dissidents and promised to reinvigorate a movement unmoored by the death in prison of Navalny, a charismatic anti-corruption campaigner and arch-Kremlin foe. Instead, tensions have spiked in recent months, as Navalny's allies and other prominent dissidents swapped accusations that appeared to dash any hopes of a united anti-Kremlin front. Many opposition-minded Russians have voiced deep frustration with the infighting, and with what some view as efforts by rivaling groups to discredit and wrest influence from one another. No media source currently available The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. Russia launched a massive airstrike campaign against neighboring Ukraine on Sunday. Local officials say several people died and the power system suffered severe damage. VOAs Arash Arabasadi has more. Russia on Sunday launched a massive drone and missile attack on Ukraine, described by officials as the largest over the past months, targeting energy infrastructure and killing civilians. The attack came as fears are mounting about Moscow's intentions to devastate Ukraine's power generation capacity ahead of the cold winter. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Russia had launched a total of 120 missiles and 90 drones in a large-scale attack across Ukraine. Various types of drones were deployed, he said, including Iranian-made Shaheds as well as cruise, ballistic and aircraft-launched ballistic missiles. VIDEO REPORT BY ARASH ARABASADI Ukrainian defenses shot down 140 air targets, Zelenskyy said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app. "The enemy's target was our energy infrastructure throughout Ukraine. Unfortunately, there is damage to objects from hits and falling debris. In Mykolaiv, as a result of a drone attack, two people were killed and six others were injured, including two children," Zelenskyy said. Two others were killed in the Odesa region, where the attack damaged energy infrastructure and disrupted power and water supplies, said local Gov. Oleh Kiper. The combined drone and missile attack was the most powerful in three months, according to the head of Kyiv's City Military Administration Serhii Popko. Russian strikes have hammered Ukraine's power infrastructure since Moscow's all-out invasion of its neighbor in February 2022, prompting repeated emergency power shutdowns and nationwide rolling blackouts. Ukrainian officials have routinely urged Western allies to bolster the country's air defenses to counter assaults and allow for repairs. Explosions were heard across Ukraine on Sunday, including in capital Kyiv, the key southern port of Odesa, as well as the country's west and central regions, according to local reports. The operational command of Poland's armed forces wrote on X that Polish and allied aircraft, including fighter jets, have been mobilized in Polish airspace because of the "massive" Russian attack on neighboring Ukraine. The steps were aimed to provide safety in Poland's border areas, it said. One person was injured after the roof of a five-story residential building caught fire in Kyiv's historic center, according to Popko. A thermal power plant operated by private energy company DTEK was "seriously damaged," the company said. Declassified 1970s-era U.S. spy satellite imagery has led a British-Iraqi archeological team to what they believe is the site of a seventh-century battle that became decisive in the spread of Islam throughout the region. The Battle of al-Qadisiyah was fought in Mesopotamia in present-day Iraq in the A.D. 630s between Arab Muslims and the army of the Sassanid Persian dynasty during a period of Muslim expansion. The Arab army prevailed and continued on its march into Persia, now Iran. A joint team of archeologists from the U.K.'s Durham University and the University of Al-Qadisiyah stumbled across the site while undertaking a remote sensing survey to map the Darb Zubaydah, a pilgrimage route from Iraq's Kufa to Mecca in Saudi Arabia built more than 1,000 years ago. The findings were published Tuesday in the journal Antiquity. While mapping the route, the team noticed that a site some 30 kilometers south of Kufa in Iraq's southern Najaf province a desert area with scattered plots of agricultural land had features that closely matched the description of the al-Qadisiyah battle site described in historic texts. William Deadman, a specialist in archaeological remote sensing at Durham University, said the Cold War era satellite images are a commonly used tools by archeologists working in the Middle East, because the older images often show features that have been destroyed or altered and would not show up on present-day satellite images. "The Middle East has developed so much in the last 50 years, both agricultural expansion and urban expansion," he said. Some of the distinguishing features at the al-Qadisiyah site, such as a distinctive trench, were "much more pristine and clear" in the 1970s images, he said. A survey on the ground confirmed the findings and convinced the team that they had correctly identified the site. The key features were a deep trench, two fortresses and an ancient river that was reportedly once forded by elephant-mounted Persian troops, said Jaafar Jotheri, a professor of archeology at the University of Al-Qadisiyah who is part of the team that made the discovery. The survey team also found pottery shards consistent with the time period when the battle took place. Jotheri said that Iraqis of his generation, who grew up under the rule of Saddam Hussein, were all familiar with the battle in minute detail, down to the names of the generals on both sides. The battle at the time had political connotations Iraq was engaged in a devastating war with Iran through much of the 1980s. Saddam pointed to the Battle of Qadisiyah as a harbinger of victory for Iraq. Like most children growing up in that era, Jotheri said he had watched a popular movie about the battle multiple times as it was on regular rotation on television. In the post-Saddam era, al-Qadisiyah has become something of a political litmus test. Iraqis' views of the battle vary depending on their feelings toward Iran, which has expanded its influence in the country since the 2003 U.S.-led invasion of Iraq that toppled Saddam. "There is some political and religious context in this battle, because now, of course, we have religious differences, ethnic differences, political differences in Iraq and we read or we view everything based on our differences," Jotheri said. But he added, "We all agree that it is a very important battle, a decisive one, and we all know about it." The team plans to begin excavations at the site in the coming year, Jotheri said. The discovery comes as part of a broader project launched in 2015 to document endangered archaeological sites in the region. It also comes at the time of a resurgence of archeology in Iraq, a country often referred to as the "cradle of civilization," but where archeological exploration has been stunted by decades of conflict that halted excavations and led to the looting of tens of thousands of artifacts. In recent years, the digs have returned and thousands of stolen artifacts have been repatriated. The last three years have been tough for Fanta Charlotte Dabone, a mother of three from the conflict-battered West African country of Burkina Faso. She fled her village after it was attacked by extremists, leaving her husband and her farm behind. Since then, she has been moving from place to place, struggling to pay rent and to buy enough food for her children, including a 2-year-old toddler. But last month, she got to be a queen. Every day for a week, together with dozens of other Burkinabe men and women who have been displaced by extremist violence, she swirled, danced and chanted for almost two hours in front of captivated audiences at Recreatrales, an international theater festival held in Ouagadougou, the country's capital. "I was so happy about it," she said. "I don't even know how to explain how it felt." Burkina Faso, a landlocked nation of 23 million in Sahel, an arid strip of land south of the Sahara, used to be known for its bustling arts scene, including renowned film and theater festivals, and its sophisticated craftsmanship. But in recent years, the country has become the symbol of the security crisis in the region. It has been shaken by violence from extremist groups and the government forces fighting them, much of it spilling over the border with Mali, and by two ensuing military coups. The military junta, which took power by force in 2022, failed to provide the stability it promised. Instead, the situation deteriorated: According to conservative estimates, more than 60% of the country is now outside of government control, more than 2 million people have lost their homes and almost 6.5 million need humanitarian aid to survive. The country's leader, Capt. Ibrahim Traore, installed a system of de-facto censorship, where those critical of the regime disappear or get forcefully drafted into the army, and where even friends are afraid to discuss politics with each other. But against all odds, last month the Bougsemtenga district in the capital turned into a festival grounds to host Recreatrales for the 13th time. Bougsemtenga derives its name from "bougtenga," which means "happiness district" in Moore, one of the local languages. True to its origins, this year its streets were transformed into a dreamy universe, resembling a crossover between a traditional village festival and "Alice in Wonderland." More than 150 African and European artists performed and over 4,500 theater lovers were able to escape the country's grim reality, if just for a little while. Improvised theater stages were constructed inside people's courtyards. The streets were decorated with colorful lights and abstract sculptures made by locals from plastic bottles and scraps of wax-printed fabrics. Residents put up hand decorated stands, selling beer and meat sticks to multinational crowds of theatergoers, ranging from Western diplomats to local mechanics. The ticket booth was a giant frog, its mouth wide open. Aristide Tarnagda, the festival's artistic director, said he was convinced that regardless of the insecurity engulfing the country, the festival had to take place as planned. Theater is an affirmation of "the primacy of life over death," Tarnagda said. He added that getting together to perform and watch theatrical productions is a form of resistance against adversity and violence. This is why this year's theme was "Turning the face to the sun." "Humans are capable of love and freedom, but sometimes they forget it," he said. "The role of the theater is to remind them about it." Held every two years, the festival is the culmination of the yearlong work that the organizers do with residents of the Bougsemtenga district, which was home to two theaters and a theater association even before the first Recreatrales in 2002. They run art workshops, including in writing, theater, dance and scenography, for young people from the district and from all of Africa, and organize mentoring sessions and business skills classes for local women. The goal is to get as many people as possible involved, said Odile Sankara, the festival's director. "It's a working class district," Sankara said. "We want to encourage people to take an interest in art, to get a taste of it." She added: "Art is a powerful weapon to fight for more light, more humanity and more love," especially while her country and the whole Sahel region were going through a security and humanitarian crisis. Claude Ilboudo, a 30-year-old from Bougsemtenga, has performed in the opening ceremonies of Recreatrales as a dancer since its first edition. He used to work as a glazier, and dancing was just his past time. But Ilboudo's life took a turn when five years ago he severely injured his right hand at work and could no longer do his job. It was then that Ilboudo discovered a passion for theater and started working for the Recreatrales association. "Theater saved me," he said. "It made me discover what I could do." This year, Ilboudo was part of the team that prepared the opening play with the internally displaced actors from scratch, including the concept, scenario and choreography. It was also the first time he personally interacted with people who had to flee their homes because of extremist violence. For internally displaced people, theater is not just a tool for therapy, helping them to process trauma, said Sankara, the artistic director. It's a way for a group that has been marginalized and isolated in Burkinabe society to be seen by others. During the play, Dabone, the displaced mother of three, stood at center stage with her toddler tied to her back and spit out a long, white paper strip. It symbolized all the haunting thoughts leaving her body, she said. But the question remains for how long. "Life is very difficult," she said. "But when I am on the stage, I feel joy. It's when I have to go back home that all these thoughts are coming back to my head." U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has selected Chris Wright, the founder of an oilfield services company, to lead the Energy Department, as his new administration continues to take shape. The transition team officially announced the choice on Saturday afternoon. On Friday, Trump announced a new National Energy Council to be led by his Interior Department pick, former North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum. In this role, Burgum will direct a panel that crosses all executive branch agencies involved in energy permitting, production, generation, distribution, regulation and transportation, Trump said in a statement. As chairman of the National Energy Council, Burgum will have a seat on the National Security Council, the president-elect said. Wright, the CEO of Liberty Energy based in Denver, Colorado, has no political experience. He is an advocate for the oil and gas industry, including fracking. In 2019, he drank fracking liquid to show that it was not dangerous. According to a March 2024 report by the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the U.S. has produced more crude oil than any nation at any time, according to its International Energy Statistics, for the past six years in a row. Average monthly U.S. crude oil production established a monthly record high in December 2023 at more than 13.3 million barrels per day. Earlier announcements The Trump-Vance transition team announced Steven Cheung will return to the Trump White House as communications director. He held the same position for the Trump-Vance 2024 presidential campaign and served in the White House during Trump's first term as director of strategic response. On Friday evening, Trump announced that his campaign press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, would be his White House press secretary. She served as assistant press secretary in his previous term in office. Trump has swiftly named an array of political loyalists to key Cabinet positions. Most of them are likely to win quick Senate approval after confirmation hearings. Having won majorities in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate, Republicans are set to take full control of the U.S. government by the third week in January. "Republicans in the House and Senate have a mandate," newly reelected House Speaker Mike Johnson said earlier this week. "The American people want us to implement and deliver that 'America First' agenda." Trump will be sworn in as the country's 47th president on January 20, two weeks after the new Congress has been seated. The 78-year-old Trump campaigned on a sweeping agenda that Democrats will be largely powerless to stop. Republicans will have a 53-47 edge in the Senate, and the tie-breaking vote of Vice President-elect JD Vance in the event of a 50-50 stalemate on any legislative proposal. Republicans have secured at least 218 seats in the 435-member House, pending the outcome of seven undecided elections for two-year terms. During his bid to win a second, nonconsecutive four-year term, Trump called for the massive deportation of millions of undocumented migrants living in the United States to their home countries, an extension and expansion of 2017 tax cuts that are set to expire at the end of 2025, further deregulation of businesses, a curb on climate controls, and prosecution of his political opponents. Senator John Thune of South Dakota, newly elected by his fellow Republicans as the Senate majority leader, said, "This Republican team is united. We are on one team. We are excited to reclaim the majority and to get to work with our colleagues in the House to enact President Trump's agenda." Trump also has called on Senate Republican leaders to allow him to make "recess appointments," which could occur when the chamber is not in session and would erase the need for time-consuming and often contentious confirmation hearings. Despite the likelihood that most of his nominees will be approved, Trump this week named four who immediately drew disparaging assessments from several Democrats and some Republicans for their perceived lack of credentials. They are former Representative Matt Gaetz as attorney general; former Democratic congresswoman turned Republican Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence; former junior military officer and Fox News host Pete Hegseth as defense secretary; and former presidential candidate and anti-vaccine activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Health and Human Services Department. The blowback presages tough confirmation fights for the four in the Senate, which reviews the appointments of top-level officials and then votes to confirm them or, on occasion, reject them, forcing the White House to make another choice. The appointment of Gaetz, 42, could prove particularly problematic, with some senators openly questioning whether he can win a 51-vote majority to assume the government's top law enforcement position. A House ethics committee probe was in the final stages of investigating whether he engaged in sexual misconduct and illicit drug use when he announced his resignation from the chamber late Wednesday, ending the probe. The Justice Department that Gaetz hopes to lead had decided not to pursue criminal charges. Gaetz has denied all wrongdoing. Gabbard, 43, has been criticized for her lack of direct experience in intelligence and accused of disseminating pro-Russian disinformation. If confirmed, she would be tasked with overseeing 18 U.S. intelligence agencies. She won over Trump with her switch from being a one-time Democratic House member from Hawaii to changing parties and staunchly advocating for his election. Critics have assailed Hegseth, a 44-year-old decorated former military officer, as someone who lacks managerial experience in the business world. A weekend anchor on Fox News, he has voiced his opinions on military operations, including his opposition to women serving in combat roles. A descendant of the Kennedy family political dynasty, Kennedy, 70, for years has been one of the country's most prominent proponents of anti-vaccine views. He also opposed water fluoridation. On Thursday, Trump also selected former Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Jay Clayton to be Manhattan's top federal prosecutor, and former Representative Doug Collins to be secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs. Trump named one of his personal criminal defense attorneys, Todd Blanche, to be deputy attorney general, and another of his attorneys, D. John Sauer, to be solicitor general. The Associated Press provided some information for this report. More than 20,000 people have been displaced across Haiti's capital Port-au-Prince in four days, a U.N. agency said Saturday, as residents flee gang violence that has crippled the troubled Caribbean nation. "The isolation of Port-au-Prince is amplifying an already dire humanitarian situation," said Gregoire Goodstein, Haiti chief for the International Organization for Migration. "Our ability to deliver aid is stretched to its limits. Without immediate international support, the suffering will worsen exponentially," Goodstein added in a statement. The IOM said that around 17,000 of the roughly 20,000 people recently forced to relocate were already in temporary housing, with many having been displaced multiple times. "Such a scale of displacement has not been observed since August 2023," the migration agency said in a news release. Haiti saw Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime sworn in on Monday, replacing outgoing premier Garry Conille, who was appointed in May but became embroiled in a power struggle with the country's unelected transitional council. Violent crime in Port-au-Prince remains high, with well-armed gangs that control some 80 percent of the city routinely targeting civilians, even though a Kenyan-led international force has been deployed to help the outgunned Haitian police restore order. Gang-related violence has caused nearly 4,000 deaths this year, according to the UN human rights office. Haiti lost major links to the rest of the world this past week when the United States banned all civilian flights to the country for a month, after three jetliners approaching or departing Port-au-Prince were hit by gunfire. As Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House in January, some state governors from the opposition Democratic Party are preparing to defend their states progressive policies. Matt Dibble reports from California, where the governor has called for an emergency session of the state assembly. Gabon is holding a referendum Saturday on whether to adopt a new constitution more than one year after mutinous soldiers overthrew the country's longtime president and seized power in the oil-rich Central African nation. Nearly 1 million people are expected to vote. The draft constitution, which proposes sweeping changes that could prevent dynastic rule and transfer of power, needs more than 50% of the votes cast to be adopted. In 2023, soldiers toppled President Ali Bongo Ondimba and put him under house arrest, accusing him of irresponsible governance and massive embezzlement that risked leading the country into chaos. The junta released Ondimba a week later on humanitarian grounds, allowing him to travel abroad for medical treatment. The soldiers proclaimed their republican guard chief, General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, as president of a transitional committee to lead the country. Oligui is a cousin of Bongo. Bongo had served two terms since coming to power in 2009 after the death of his father, who ruled the country for 41 years. His rule was marked by widespread discontent with his reign. A coup attempt in 2019 failed. The draft constitution imposes a seven-year presidential term, renewable once, instead of the current charter that allows five-year terms renewable without limit. It also says family members cannot succeed a president and abolishes the position of prime minister. The former French colony is a member of OPEC, but its oil wealth is concentrated in the hands of a few and nearly 40% of Gabonese ages 15 to 24 were out of work in 2020, according to the World Bank. Its oil export revenue was $6 billion in 2022, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. The polls will close at 6 p.m. Saturday. There is no legal deadline for when results should be announced. Lioness is nothing if not consistent. Through the fog of its incessant sociopolitical incoherence (also nothing short of ur-typical of the militant-spy genre), each episode delivers an even mix of A-list scenery chewing, insane dialogue, and small-screen action that actually kinda rips. And Ill be damned if week after week, the sum of those parts doesnt amount to a vivid reflection of Americas collective nightmares circa 2024. There is no winning. There is just the upper hand, Cruz tells Josie Carrillo in this weeks lynchpin scene, making the sunk-cost case for American global dominance in its waning days while unwittingly presenting herself as Joes ticket out of the endless cold-war games. Joe is driven by a cognitive-dissonant belief in her Sisyphean post ever maintaining the upper hand to protect the scraps of the American Dream that cradle her family inside Americas borders. When the Lioness crew arrives back at Fort Bliss, still whiplashed from the Sound of Freedomcoded child-trafficking scene they left behind, she snaps into gray-man action real quick laying down a cold rebuke from HQ to make sure those children stay left behind and get back to the A-plot, then sidebarring with Kyle, Bobby, and Gutierrez to hatch a rogue child-rescue side quest. Turns out Joe left a tracker behind on one of the kids, and with Gutierrez on hand to lead a DEA interception at the border, she, Bobby, and Kyle can be on site as advisers, a.k.a. intercept the trafficking ring themselves, with extreme prejudice. Meanwhile, its wheels up and en route to the Carrillo home in Dallas in mere minutes, and Cruz is on deck to pep-talk Josie into lionessing her family out of the cartel business for good. Theres an undeniable utility to Taylor Sheridans show-dont-tell-rule-breaking dialogue in scenes like this, where the emotionally damaged parallels between two gray warriors of the deep state are clearly, if not semi-goofily, broadcast. Im supposed to look at people I love in the eye, lie to them, pull their whole fucking world apart, take their freedom, maybe even their lives, Josie tells Cruz. Do you think you could do that? A knowing glance is all we need to be reminded of Cruzs season-one arc, not that she doesnt literally respond with what amounts to Yeah, girl, I literally did that when I was the lioness, get it? But its the cold hard truth about her fathers place in society that gets Josie to listen up and board the plane to Dallas. Her father is neither a saint nor a sheep, argues Cruz, so he must be on the lawful-to-chaotic evil scale more likely lawful evil, him being a cartel lawyer and all. There is no winning. There is just the upper hand, she reminds Josie. Theirs is not to choose the enemy or the battlefield, only whether or not to fight. But choosing not to fight is how warehouses fill up with children. She sounds like Joe dropping that last part in there the spy-movie lie you cant fully believe if youve really seen it all but have to tell yourself anyway to keep the blood boiling. Its no mistake that Joes presence in the background of this pep talk is withheld till its final moments, eloquently visualizing the spark that goes off in Joes mind: Shes found a worthy successor. Cruz confirms Joes on the flight to Dallas with an apt assessment of their new lioness, as well as a promising new mission plan through which to funnel her instincts. Nobodys ever made an informant out of a top-tier cartel member, but Cruz points out that this time, they have one of their daughters to try. Josie still doesnt want to be there a terminal foundation upon which to build a lioness mission. Joe reminds her that thats why shes here, to make Josie believe her father has a chance. But why not actually give him one instead of breeding false hopes in their primary operative? Besides, flipping her father with an actual chance of rescuing him from her uncles plight is something she can actually believe in, giving her a better chance at success. Still in the throes of being all she me about Cruz, Joe takes her advice and gets permission from Byron to execute. Josie remains reluctant about the entire operation but agrees to the lower-lift option: give her father the chance to go into protective custody and live out the rest of his days in a mansion in Idaho somewhere. Joe drops the crew off in Dallas but hangs back to lead the child-rescue side quest. En route, she calls Kaitlyn for permission to give Cruz full rein of the mission. Shes like me, except she doesnt have a husband and two daughters, she says, intimating what she tells Neal in an excited call on the fame flight: I have my way out. Joe knows the world order shes sworn to protect is always hanging by a thread, and shes let that knowledge metastasize into an invasive belief that only she can keep the thread from breaking until now. But as the episode closes out with the child-rescue mission literally blowing up in her face, things look bleak for Joe and her future out of the gray zone. Back in Dallas, Cruz and Josie enter the Carrillo mansion, greeted by Josies mom with limited time before dinner to plot out the next moves. Josie left home when she was 18 years old, so she doesnt have much to go on in terms of what to expect from the next few hours. Sure enough, dinner proves an impossible moment to present father Pablo with the offer to cooperate with the CIA, let alone tell him the real reason for her discharge. The best villains are the ones who are like 90 percent correct in their view and 10 percent maniacally misguided, and Pablo Carrillo presents himself as just such a villain straight away. He starts with the maniacal 10 percent, delivering a trans-panic reactionary rant against the woke U.S. military like it has anything to do with his daughters discharge. Then, he starts spitting with a vivid description of an empires inevitable path to failure: People become rich, lose confidence in institutions, and outsource the dirty work of imperial maintenance to the desperate people clamoring outside its borders. Pablo has a clear top view of Americas looming collapse, but he ends his speech with an ominous appeal to the new empire soon to rise from the ashes of the old one thinking on the same scales of survival of dominance as Josie and her newfound nest of spies. Photo: Getty Images for Vulture By now youve probably heard about the much-anticipated Abbott Elementary crossover episode with Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia thats coming later in season four, but could the Abbott teachers find their way to other beloved TV series? At Vulture Festival, where Abbott won our first Roomy Award for writers rooms, the writers shared that they have plenty more crossover ideas for future seasons. Creator Quinta Brunson has her eyes on a game show like one of her faves, America Says. You know how its always teachers on there, right? she said. I really want our teachers to go on that show. Brunson also suggested a Survivor crossover, after writer Kate Peterman hooked her on the reality series, while writer Joya McCrory suggested 911. It feels like the way that they have The Bachelor and The Bachelorette go before us that they want Mr. Johnson to be on The Golden Bachelor, said Jordan Temple, another writer. I dont know if his wife would like that though, added writer Riley Dufurrena. But we would like to see it! Brunson and the writers also gave more insight into how the Its Always Sunny episode will work. Its not like they show up in our cold open and then theyre gone, said executive producer Justin Halpern. Our two episodes are of a piece. Brunson continued, [What] I think people dont realize is our episode will air in January, so itll be an Abbott Elementary episode, but the first episode of Always Sunny will air I dont know when their episodes going to air, but probably in June. Their episode will be their version of what happened in this storyline. To make Abbotts episode, Its Always Sunny creator Rob McElhenny visited their writers room, and star Charlie Day even Zoomed in while sick. But the most crucial part? I guess I have to say thank you to corporate synergy? Brunson said. Thats the only reason we get to do this, is because FX is also owned by Disney. If it werent for that, it wouldnt happen. Stephen Falk and Aya Cash. Photo: Getty Images for Vulture Youre the Worst is a Los Angeles show, to a T. In one of their classic Sunday Funday episodes, they basically listed every east Hollywood-Los Feliz-Silver Lake bar, from 4100 to Ye Rustic. And what does L.A. have more than any other place? Celebs! (Also, med spas, lots of med spas.) Creator Stephen Falk and stars Aya Cash, Kether Donohue, and Desmin Borges talked their shit with Vultures Jen Chaney. The Youre the Worst reunion panel had laughs, tears (Edgars PTSD storyline made Desmin Borges cry), but most of all it funny things to say about famous people. A comprehensive list of everyone who caught a stray at Vulture Fest 2024: Dane Cook Stephen Falk said he was worried about having Desmin Borges on the show, because hed already had a role on a different project with Dane Cook that didnt work. I thought he was bad luck, but he wasnt. Falk said. Dane Cook was. Borges also called Cook the dude who was 2.5 hours late to my read with him at Wendy OBriens office because apparently one of the tires on his motorcycle blew out, and he didnt have another transportation to get there. Moby The only thing I was say about Moby is that, and God bless him, but Moby is the number one person that I know, like Hollywood celebrity that girls I know have made out with and feel really shit about it, Stephen Falk said. Travis Barker Travis Barker was supposed to be on the show, Aya Cash dropped. Do you remember that? He was there, and he left before we shot. Hollywood Press You play these stupid press games, Cash also said. I dont know, our business is stupid How I Met Your Mother It felt really gimmicky to repeat it, it was sort of like Slapsgiving or whatever, Falk said. Not that theres anything wrong with that. But its easy chum for the audience. -Stephen Falk on Sunday Funday episodes TV Writers The big lie of TV is that the writers always know how its gonna end, and they know the exact right moment, Falk himself admitted. Its bullshit, absolute bullshit. Zach Braff When it was suggested that Youre the Worst crowdfund the backing for a sequel movie, a la Sex And the City, Falk balked: Then we have, like, Zach Braffs movie that no one watched? No. No, FX has to fucking pay for it. 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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 After spending much of her career as an Independent, Mary Roche, a councillor for Waterford City East, and a member of the Social Democrats, has decided to contest the General Election as a party politician for the first time. People will know that I was Independent for about 20 years, and I think at a local level thats no barrier to actually delivering for the people that elect you. She explained that the lack of a formal government in local politics allowed independents to be effective for their constituents. This differs in national politics, she said. Thats why I joined a political party! She argued that at the next level, I do think you need to be part of a team, we have learned that. We have elected independents and they are good but we saw John Halligan in government, as a junior minister, going to rain hell down on the government if things werent delivered and they still werent delivered! Like many people in the county, Cllr Roche believes that Waterford is being left behind, describing it as the forgotten city. Its not just a sense, its actually provable and verifiable, the Social Democrat candidate said, pointing to the South East Economic Monitor reports showing the lack of government investment into the region. Its not like we are shouting into the void or whining for the sake of it, we actually have less investment into infrastructure, education and health. Its just not fair, we pay the same taxes as other people! Mary Roche, who is a former board member of Waterford IT before it became SETU, has pledged to work on achieving full university status as part of a promise by her party to commence the process and also to give the university autonomy and equity in funding with other universities across the country. Whatever designation it has been, whether that was WRTC, WIT or SETU [] the college has always operated outside of its designation. It has never let the designation limit it, she said. As WRTC it merited a step up from that designation to differentiate itself when that happened it became WIT and overnight all of the other RTCs, whether they deserved it or not, were upgraded overnight by political demand. Cllr Roche pointed to other regional institutions receiving upgraded status purely due to political will and said, If it was me, I would actually change the designation in the morning and have it trading as the University of Waterford or the University of the South East. 'Ministerial Kleptocracy' Asked how she would achieve the balanced regional development she promises to campaign for, Cllr Roche said, We dont have a democracy so much as a Ministerial Kleptocracy, and emphasised that having a government minister in place is crucial to ensuring that the region would get the investment it deserves. The regions should get what is rightfully theirs thats the way I would be looking to do it. The Social Democrat candidate said that the biggest concerns on the doorstep are the airport, healthcare especially with regard to older people and disability care, and housing. Throughout her campaign, Cllr Roche stresses the importance of getting more investment into the South East, The balanced regional development covers the equality that Waterford needs to achieve with its peer cities. We are being told in Waterford to be the regional driver, to develop incomes and attract jobs - to bake a cake, but they are not giving us the basic ingredients. Bake a cake! But theyre not giving us any flour the university, not giving us any raising agent, the airport! WATCH: Full interview here Thousands of visitors thronged into Waterford City over the weekend as Europes City of Christmas officially launched this year's festive celebrations with the opening of the Winterval Festival. Photographer for waterford-news.ie and Waterford News & Star, Joe Evans was there to capture the excitement of the opening night when Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr Jason Murphy and Santa Claus joined forces to delight those in attendance with the switching on of the Christmas lights. Watch the video below. The ceremony in John Roberts Square marked the beginning of the 12th annual Winterval festival which will continue until December 23. No dating, no sex, no marriage and no babies. Of all the impassioned reactions to Trumps presidential election, the embrace of South Koreas controversial 4B movement in which women reject any interpersonal contact with men is probably the most eye-catching. In the hours following Trumps victory last week, there was a surge in Google searches in the United States about 4B, according to Google trends. Many American women are concerned Donald Trumps victory proves to them that men dont respect them or their bodily autonomy. Credit: Reuters The radical feminist movement which stands for the four pledges that begin with bi, meaning no emerged in South Korea in about 2017. It was an enraged response to the stabbing murder of a 23-year-old woman in the public bathroom of Gangnam subway station by a man who said he killed her as revenge for all the women who looked down on him. Its timing merged with general female outrage over what is dubbed South Koreas spy-cam epidemic it is common for men to film sexual partners and women using the bathroom, without their consent, with the resulting footage exploited as pornography. 4B also coincided with the emergence of South Koreas Escape the Corset cause, which calls on women to reject toxic beauty standards. Adherents shave their heads and shun plastic surgery and make-up. Former prime minister Julia Gillard has called on Australias attorneys-general to urgently consider how to deliver justice to survivors of child abuse after the High Court ruled that a Catholic diocese was not liable for the historical sexual abuse of a young boy in Victoria. Gillard, who in 2012 established the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, said she was deeply concerned about the High Court ruling. Julia Gillard in 2013, flanked by then-ministers Nicola Roxon (left) and Jenny Macklin, announcing the commissioners for the royal commission into child sexual abuse. Credit: Anthony Johnson The royal commission widely considered among the most important decisions of Gillards period as prime minister from 2010 to 2013 lifted the lid on decades of child sexual abuse that had occurred in Australian institutions. But the High Court sent shockwaves through advocates for survivors last week when it overturned on appeal a previous ruling by Victorias Supreme Court and its Court of Appeal that had found the Catholic Churchs Ballarat diocese was legally responsible for the misconduct of its former priest Father Bryan Coffey. In the past before you once again were elected president and his opinions about you changed overnight Ambassador Rudd had in fact worried that we in Australia were on a slippery slope to where the Trumpian universe landed us all a land of facts and alternative facts and that there is no such thing as the objective truth any more. Given the circumstances, suffice to say he now welcomes a Trumpian universe. Meanwhile, he has much to teach about taking to task the purveyors of fake news, who claim he was once hostile towards you. (He never was, of course. Just check his social media.) Loading I think you will find that you and our ambassador have similar thoughts on party discipline. Following Rudds first stint as prime minister, which was prematurely ended by his supposedly loyal lieutenants, he changed the rules his party uses to spill elected leaders. This has led to the fortunate circumstance in which our current prime minister, Anthony Albanese, cannot be replaced by his colleagues ahead of the coming election, despite already purchasing his retirement residence. Mr Trump, you are not subject to the checks on power of our Westminster system of government, but Im sure you can appreciate our man in Washingtons impatience with these petty restraints. On some things, in the past, our ambassador may have had some different priorities to yours, Mr Trump, but these can be overcome. There was a time when prime minister Rudd defined climate change as the greatest moral challenge of our times. But when he hit a few hurdles on climate change policy it turned out we had greater moral challenges. Which is handy because I know climate is not one of your critical concerns. However, those Chinese who derailed our efforts! Well, Im sure you and Ambassador Rudd will bond over the story of how those rodent somethings tried to do something quite unmentionable to him at the Copenhagen climate change conference. Best of all, while Australians always found Rudds way of expressing himself idiosyncratic, it makes much more sense in your great nation. Ruddisms such as fair shake of the sauce bottle and gotta zip sound exactly like lines a Hollywood writer might write for an American actor playing a typical Aussie. I am confident you two will throw another shrimp on the barbie of friendship. Lima: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has joined Asia-Pacific leaders in warning against new trade barriers that could slash economic growth and sacrifice jobs, in a signal to US President-elect Donald Trump to rethink his plan to force up the price of imports. The political leaders ended a regional summit in Peru with a sharp message about the need for fair and open trade. Chinese President Xi Jinping denounced the prospect of back-pedalling on globalisation. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during the APEC Economic Leaders Retreat meeting, in Lima, Peru, on Saturday. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen But the Chinese president said he would strive towards a smooth transition to the new US administration when Trump takes office in January, in a comment during a meeting with US President Joe Biden that eased fears of conflict between the worlds largest economic and military powers. China is ready to work with the new US administration to maintain communications, expand co-operation and manage differences, Xi said in his opening remarks to Biden in their third face-to-face meeting in three years. Subscribe to The Podcast by KevinMD. Watch on YouTube. Catch up on old episodes! We dive into the powerful story of a physician-mother whose world changed with the onset of COVID-19. Our guest, Arian Nachat, a palliative and emergency medicine physician, shares her journey through the pandemic, balancing the demanding roles of mother and doctor. From navigating childcare crises and homeschooling to reimagining her career beyond the confines of traditional health care, she sheds light on the struggles faced by frontline workers. Listen as she reveals how these challenges inspired her to reshape her path, create a health care company addressing critical system gaps, and advocate for a patient-centered, physician-led approach to medicine. Arian Nachat is a palliative and emergency medicine physician. She discusses the KevinMD article, Mostly miserables: a physician-mothers struggle during COVID-19. Our presenting sponsor is DAX Copilot by Microsoft. Do you spend more time on administrative tasks like clinical documentation than you do with patients? Youre not alone. Clinicians report spending up to two hours on administrative tasks for each hour of patient care. Microsoft is committed to helping clinicians restore the balance with DAX Copilot, an AI-powered, voice-enabled solution that automates clinical documentation and workflows. 70 percent of physicians who use DAX Copilot say it improves their work-life balance while reducing feelings of burnout and fatigue. Patients love it too! 93 percent of patients say their physician is more personable and conversational, and 75 percent of physicians say it improves patient experiences. Help restore your work-life balance with DAX Copilot, your AI assistant for automated clinical documentation and workflows. VISIT SPONSOR https://aka.ms/kevinmd SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended GET CME FOR THIS EPISODE https://www.kevinmd.com/cme Im partnering with Learner+ to offer clinicians access to an AI-powered reflective portfolio that rewards CME/CE credits from meaningful reflections. Find out more: https://www.kevinmd.com/learnerplus Transcript Kevin Pho: Hi, and welcome to the show. Subscribe at KevinMD.com/podcast. Today we welcome Arianne Nachat. Shes an emergency medicine and palliative care physician. Todays KevinMD article is A Physician Mothers Struggle During COVID-19. Arianne, welcome to the show. Arianne Nachat: Thank you for having me, Kevin. Kevin Pho: So, lets start by briefly sharing your story and journey. Arianne Nachat: Sure. So, I started out as an emergency medicine physician and became a patient, unfortunately, early in my career. And then I studied Chinese medicinetraditional Chinese medicine. And then I boarded in hospice and palliative medicine and also became pain trained. So, a somewhat eclectic route within medicine, Kevin. And during the course of COVID, obviously, we were all encountering very different challenges and experiences. And as a single mom, that brought a whole slew of other challenges that normally I had pretty well juggled. And so, I decided that I was going to address that in this article that I wrote for you and for our readers, to sort of talk about what that experience felt like. Kevin Pho: All right, so lets jump straight into that article. For those who didnt get a chance to read it, tell us what its about. Arianne Nachat: So, during COVID, obviously, being a single mom, I needed to figure out how to work full-time and homeschool my kids because I was in a state where all the schools shut down for about 13 months. And I still had to pay the mortgage, which became very, very difficult to do. And as you can imagine, as a frontline emergency medicine physician, there were not a whole lot of people really jumping to volunteer to come to my house prior to the vaccine to watch my children. So, I had to pivot and make a lot of adjustments. And in doing that, I discovered that I really wanted to solve a problem that became apparent during COVID-19, which was the fact that we, as a nation, really struggled to talk about death and dying. And COVID-19 had opened a door in terms of people realizing even young people can die unexpectedly. And maybe this is a conversation we need to have and talk about more. And so, I started a company called Pality that attempted to address the space here where we could talk about it, where we could educate other clinicians and other patients on how to talk about death and dying, how to prepare for death and dying. And really to empower people to understand that talking about it doesnt make it happen, but what it does is it alleviates a lot of burden when someone is challenged with a serious illness or diagnosis. Kevin Pho: You had so much going on during that time of COVID, and like you said, it sounds like an overwhelming amount of responsibilities, and you also decided to start a company to further address the conversation of palliative care. How did you have the bandwidth and energy just to add that on? Arianne Nachat: I think the phrase necessity is the mother of invention is really applicable here. I wound up having to leave my full-time job. They were not able to accommodate my home responsibilities, so to speak. And so, I took a position working for the Department of Defense, and I started working primarily as an emergency medicine physician down in San Diego. I was living in Portland, Oregon, originally, and started working for the Navy and for the VA doing emergency medicine, COVID relief. And so, they were happy to give me blocked shifts. And so, I started flying down to San Diego, working 12-hour shifts, and then Id fly home and homeschool my kids for three weeks. And so, during those three-week blocks, I had a lot of downtime between homeschooling a four-and-a-half and a seven-year-oldobviously not an eight-hour day of educationa lot of periods of time where they were just playing or watching a movie, et cetera, et cetera. So, I had time to really think and contemplate, what am I seeing that I can fix? What is within my purview of expertise and knowledge where I can make a difference during a period of time where people were really struggling? And so, people were getting very creativehealth care systems were getting creative, Mount Sinai being one of the ones that actually led the way on doing palliative care via iPad. And so, we realized that this is a form of health care delivery that works in this space. And so, I was able to carve out some time to really take something and figure out a systems-wide solution for it. And it was really empowering. And also, frankly, it was really enjoyable. It was fun to have a problem that was sort of like a Rubiks Cube that I could put my skill set to and help solve. Kevin Pho: So, you mentioned earlier, of course, before the pandemic and perhaps even now, were having difficulty broaching that topic of palliative care. How do you think the pandemic has changed those conversations? Arianne Nachat: Well, I think a lot of young people didnt think it was a conversation they ever needed to have, right? Suddenly, we had 20-year-olds who were dying of COVID, and so I think that Pandoras box inadvertently was opened, and people had to come to terms with the fact that people they cared about and loved were dying unexpectedly. And so, suddenly, that conversation became front and center. And I think that as that happened, people started realizing that theres something called a good death and a bad death. And if we start to talk about it and people get to actually have a say in what their dying journey looks like, that its more comforting both to the patient and to their family members. Its extremely stressful for a family. My worst day at work is when Im sitting in an ICU with a family of 10 people around the table and no one knows what grandma wanted. And suddenly people have to guess, and thats a huge responsibility to put on a family member. And so, realizing that these are conversations you can have at any juncture, and really ideally anytime. I tell people I have an advance directive. Ive had one since I was 23 because I was jumping out of airplanes with a parachute. I figured people should probably know what I want to do. And so, Ive shared that with my patients and their families to say, this is not about dying. This is actually about living and how you want to live and whats important to you. And those are really important conversations to have at any juncture of life where your life impacts other people. So, youre getting married, youre having children, theres a change in your family status, theres a change in your health status. These are all appropriate times to have a conversation and review sort of, well, whats important to me? What was important to me at 20 is very different from whats important to me at 50. And so, I think that the pandemic really showed people that talking about what is essentially their line in the sand of whats important to them versus whats not. And sharing that with the people they love suddenly was an OK conversation to have. Kevin Pho: So, youre right at that intersection of palliative care and emergency medicine. So, that scenario that you described where people can have a sudden confrontation with death and they may not know what their loved ones wishes weredid that happen more often than not in the emergency department, especially during the pandemic? Arianne Nachat: Absolutely. And I think that especially on the East Coast, where I trained but not where I currently work, they were hit extremely hard, and they were having to have these conversations in one or two minutes with families. And early in the pandemic, we didnt know what the best management was, for example, and people were getting intubated. And so, patients didnt have an opportunity to have those conversations with their family members. So, I think the emergency department and emergency medicine physicians in particular are very savvy and know how to have conversations in sort of short, quick, abridged cliff-notes versions. This is not the ICU version of, lets all sit down and have an hour-and-a-half-long conversation and explore this, but its really essential for emergency medicine physicians. And frankly, any clinician who is working with patients with serious illness needs to know how to broach the conversation in a kind, gentle, empathic way that opens the door to say, hey, we really want to make sure that were doing the right thing here. You know, has your loved one ever shared with you whats important to them? Have they ever had an experience where theyve had to talk about this because their spouse passed away or another family member was struggling? Its an incredible opportunity at a very stark moment in time for us to intervene. Kevin Pho: You mentioned that in your article that physicians during the pandemic were viewed as necessary and expendable. So, how did that realization affect your career trajectory, and did it influence your transition into starting your company and a more CEO role? Arianne Nachat: Absolutely. You know, having young kids during the pandemic and realizing that we were health care heroes for a while, and then suddenly it didnt matter that we didnt have PPE or that we were putting ourselves at risk. And, you know, unfortunately, I did wind up ultimately contracting COVID, not once, but actually three times all within a 10-month period and have struggled with some issues related to long COVID as a result of that. And the fact that there are people who dont seem to understand the really critical role we played and were putting ourselves at risk was very heartbreaking. And I think that its unfortunate that nowadays there is this very sort of passe approach that COVID isnt an issue. COVID is still very much an issue. COVID is a disease weve never seen before, and were going to be writing textbooks about COVID for the next 10 to 20 years. We dont know the implications of long COVID, but we are learning a lot more about it. So, for me, the realization was, what can I do to impact health care in a systemic way and at the same time take care of myself and my kids, putting them front and center? Switching to a role where I have tighter control over my schedule was essential. I still work clinically, but I work fewer shifts than when I was full-time in clinical medicine. Now, I can schedule my meetings so that I am home and available for a kids event. I can take time off in a way that is more under my direct control. This doesnt mean being a CEO is easy; its not. I get phone calls at all times of the day and night, but I can take those calls at home, do homework with my kids, and step away if I need to take a call. For me, the eureka moment was realizing our time here is limited. The importance shifted to being present in my kids lives and controlling my schedule to allow for that. Its been a nice shift. I still work in the ER and do palliative medicine, but I dont want to step completely away from clinical practice. Being a clinician entrepreneur is vital. I dont think health care should be shaped solely by MBAs making decisions from boardrooms without firsthand knowledge of patient care. Physicians understand what happens at the bedside and are in a better position to identify problems and devise solutions. This shift in my career has allowed me to focus more on home life and having a bigger impact beyond individual patient care. Kevin Pho: I want to talk about that transition from clinical to business. There is a stereotype that physicians arent well-versed in business practices. How did you navigate becoming a CEO? Did you have any business background, and how difficult or easy was the transition for you? Arianne Nachat: It was actually quite challenging. We dont receive business training in medical school. I recently watched a Dr. Glockam Flecken video that humorously highlighted how little training we get on the health care systems design. Its a huge disservice to physicians. Earlier in my career, when I was building an integrative medicine service at Kaiser, I was fortunate to have allies who supported me in attending the Stanford Graduate School of Business for some training. I spent four months there learning the business side of health care, which was eye-opening. It gave me the tools I needed to build a business case and communicate effectively with business-minded people. That experience was invaluable when I transitioned to building Pality. It prepared me to engage with venture capitalists, private equity, insurers, and other stakeholders. But one of the most disappointing realizations was that for many of them, health care was the least important aspect. It was all about return on investment. We chose not to take funding from private equity or venture capital because I had seen what happened in the hospice space, where three-fifths of hospices are now owned by private equity. This has resulted in a decline in patient care, which is heartbreaking. Ive had patients sent to the emergency room where the nurse didnt know their name or diagnosis. These experiences underscored for me that while its important to understand the business, maintaining quality patient care is non-negotiable. I also realized that I needed to surround myself with a team that complemented my skills. I brought on a CFO who is well-versed in business and finance, allowing me to focus on what I do best while understanding enough to engage meaningfully in those conversations. The struggle has been recognizing that changing health care from the inside is challenging. Entrenched interests are resistant to change. This raises the ethical question of whether health care should be a for-profit venture. While I understand that people need to make money, when profit takes precedence over patient care, it becomes a moral issue. Kevin Pho: You are uniquely positioned with experience in both clinical and business aspects of health care. You mentioned private equity, which is also taking over many emergency departments. How can physicians push back to prioritize patient care when private equity is focused solely on return on investment? Where do you see this leading, and what can we do as clinicians to push back? Arianne Nachat: Thats an important question. Physicians need to engage in the political and legislative process. We need to form a unified voice. I know the idea of unionization is uncomfortable for many physicians, but other professions, like nursing unions, have shown that collective action can make a significant difference. Nurses can impact their salaries and working conditions because they stand together. Physicians, historically, have been more altruistic, thinking well just do the right thing. But if COVID has taught us anything, its that we were expendable, and no one was looking out for us. We need to advocate for ourselves as a group. More physicians are running for political office and speaking out, which is crucial. We need our own lobbying presence in Washington, D.C., and we must be willing to take stronger stands, even walking out if necessary. Ive seen recent posts from emergency physicians being told their compensation wont be met. In any other industry, like the pilots union, such a scenario would lead to immediate walkouts. But as physicians, we hesitate because peoples lives are at stake. We need to find a balance where we assert our value without compromising patient care. Kevin Pho: Were talking to Arianne Nachat, an emergency medicine and palliative care physician. Todays KevinMD article is A Physician Mothers Struggle During COVID-19. Arianne, what are your take-home messages for the KevinMD audience? Arianne Nachat: First, get engaged. Find a way to move the needle on health care to make your experience as a physician better. Weve lost too many physicians, whether to leaving health care or to suicide. We need to take care of ourselves. Second, engage in conversations with patients and colleagues about serious illness, death, and dying. These conversations should not be frightening. They empower patients and provide them with agency during difficult times. Lastly, we need to continue supporting one another. Whether youre considering transitioning to entrepreneurship, leaving medicine for personal reasons, or aiming to be a better clinician at the bedside, we should encourage and support each other in all aspects of our professional journeys. Kevin Pho: Thank you so much for sharing your story, time, and insight. And thanks again for coming on the show. Arianne Nachat: Thanks, Kevin. I really appreciate it. LIMA, Nov. 16 (Xinhua) China will host the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in 2026, visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Saturday. The announcement was made during the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, held in Peru's capital Lima, where leaders from the APEC economies convened to address pressing global challenges, including trade, sustainability, and inclusive growth. "We look forward to working with all parties to deepen Asia-Pacific cooperation to the benefit of the peoples in the region," Xi said. Xi's statement marks the third time China will host the prestigious gathering since APEC's founding in 1989. "Over the decades, APEC has been instrumental in leading Asia and the Pacific to great success in development, prosperity and connectivity, making the region the most dynamic economy and primary engine of global economic growth," Xi said at the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting. Noting that Asia-Pacific cooperation is confronted with challenges such as rising tendencies of geopolitics, unilateralism and protectionism, Xi urged APEC economies to act in solidarity and cooperation to meet the challenges. (Source: Xinhua) Editor: Wang Shasha Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on the sidelines of the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Lima, Peru, Nov. 15, 2024. [Xinhua/Huang Jingwen] LIMA, Nov. 16 (Xinhua) China-Japan relations are in a critical period of improvement and development, as the current international and regional situations face changes and turbulence, said Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday. As close neighbors and important countries in Asia and the world, the relationship between China and Japan holds significance that goes beyond the bilateral scope, Xi said while meeting Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on the sidelines of the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting. He noted that China is willing to work with Japan, in accordance with the principles and directions established in the four political documents between China and Japan, to uphold the important consensus that the two countries should "be partners, not threats," comprehensively advance the strategic relationship of mutual benefit, and endeavor to build a constructive and stable China-Japan relationship that meets the requirements of the new era. Xi stressed that China's development is an opportunity for the world, and this is especially true for neighboring countries like Japan. He expressed hope that Japan will work with China to develop a correct mutual understanding, steer the bilateral relationship in the right direction from a strategic perspective and with a broad view of the overall situation, and translate the important political consensus reached by both sides into concrete policies and actions. Xi called on the Japanese side to face history squarely, look to the future, and properly handle major issues of principle such as history and Taiwan, manage differences in a constructive manner and maintain the political foundation of bilateral relations. Both sides should deepen and expand cultural and local exchanges, promoting mutual understanding between the people of the two countries, especially the younger generation, said Xi. As China's and Japan's economic interests and production and supply chains are deeply integrated, both sides should adhere to mutual benefit and win-win cooperation, safeguard the global free trade system as well as stable and smooth production and supply chains, said Xi. He also called on the two countries to strengthen coordination on international and regional affairs, practice true multilateralism, promote open regionalism, and jointly address global challenges. For his part, Ishiba said that Japan and China are responsible for regional peace and prosperity and it holds great significance to the region and the world that the two sides work together to comprehensively advance the strategic relationship of mutual benefit between the two sides and build constructive and stable bilateral ties. Japan's position on the Taiwan question, based on the Japan-China joint communique in 1972, remains unchanged, he said, adding that the Japanese side remains committed to the principles and consensus established in the four political documents between Japan and China, and adheres to the path of peaceful development. The Japanese side is willing to engage in candid dialogue with China at all levels in the spirit of facing history squarely and looking to the future to enhance mutual understanding and trust, he added. Japan-China economic cooperation holds immense potential and Japan has no intention of decoupling from China, Ishiba noted. Japan hopes to strengthen people-to-people and cultural exchanges between the two sides and promote cooperation in various areas, including trade, green development, as well as medical and healthcare, to achieve more tangible results that will better benefit the two peoples, he said. Japan is willing to work closely with China within frameworks such as APEC, he added. The two sides agreed to maintain high-level exchanges, make good use of high-level dialogue mechanisms in the fields of economy, people-to-people and cultural exchanges and other fields, and translate the consensus reached on the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water from Fukushima into action as soon as possible. Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on the sidelines of the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Lima, Peru, Nov. 15, 2024. [Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan] (Source: Xinhua) Editor: Wang Shasha People walk past the logo of APEC 2024 outside the Lima Convention Center in Lima, Peru, Nov. 13, 2024. [Xinhua/Mariana Bazo] * Despite headwinds and undertows, economic globalization has always been the general trend, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in a written speech addressing the APEC CEO Summit 2024. * The attempt to block economic cooperation under all sorts of pretexts and break up the interdependence of the world is nothing but backpedaling, Xi said. * Tougher times call for greater confidence, said the Chinese president. "We should see to it that economic globalization generates more positive outcomes and is taken to a new phase that is more dynamic, inclusive and sustainable." LIMA, Nov. 16 (Xinhua) Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for efforts to steer economic globalization in the right direction, jointly promoting a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization to the benefit of various countries and communities. In a written speech addressing the APEC CEO Summit 2024 on Friday, Xi said the entire Asia-Pacific is deeply woven into the fabric of economic globalization, and is now an interdependent community with common interests and a shared future. On the other hand, the world is in a new period of turbulence and transformation, said Xi, warning that the grave challenge of economic globalization is like sailing up a river we either forge ahead or drift downstream. "Where will the Asia-Pacific economy be going? It is a decision we must make," Xi said. Economic globalization is an objective requirement of growing social productive forces, and a natural outcome of advancement in science and technology, he said, adding that despite headwinds and undertows, economic globalization has always been the general trend. The attempt to block economic cooperation under all sorts of pretexts and break up the interdependence of the world is nothing but backpedaling, Xi said. Tougher times call for greater confidence, said the Chinese president. "We should see to it that economic globalization generates more positive outcomes and is taken to a new phase that is more dynamic, inclusive and sustainable." "First, we should take innovation as the driving force for stronger growth of the world economy," Xi said. He said advances in science and technology should benefit the entire humanity. "We should help developing countries with their capacity building in science and technology and promote global flow of knowledge and technologies." "Second, we should keep pace with the times and reform the system of global economic governance," he said. He added that the principles of "plan together, build together and benefit together" should be followed, the representation and voice of the Global South should be enhanced continuously, and all countries should be ensured of equal rights, equal opportunities and equal rules in conducting international economic cooperation. Xi called for building an open world economic system, and efforts to keep the global industrial and supply chains stable and smooth. "Third, we should always take the people-centered approach and seek to settle imbalances in development," he said. Global prosperity and stability cannot be achieved when the rich get richer and the poor poorer, Xi said, noting true development means common development of all countries. "We should pursue economic globalization that is people-centered and delivers more balanced development and more equal opportunities, so that different countries, classes and communities can all benefit from development," he said. This photo shows the logo of APEC 2024 in Lima, Peru, Nov. 13, 2024. [Xinhua/Mariana Bazo] Asia-Pacific economies have maintained robust growth and created the remarkable Asia-Pacific miracle, Xi stressed. "The success of the Asia-Pacific is due to our firm commitment to peace and stability in the region, to our continuous practices of true multilateralism and open regionalism, and to our deep faith in the trend toward economic globalization as well as mutual benefit and mutual success," he said. Xi said the Asia-Pacific should remain the locomotive of economic globalization in the future. "While further burnishing the Asia-Pacific hallmark of openness and inclusiveness, we should make new brand-building efforts to foster a green and digital Asia-Pacific, build an Asia-Pacific community with a shared future, and usher in another 30 golden years of development for our region," he said. During the Third Plenary Session of its 20th Central Committee in July, the Communist Party of China adopted a comprehensive plan for further deepening reform across the board to advance Chinese modernization, said Xi. China will deepen reform comprehensively and continue to provide robust momentum for the world economy, Xi noted, adding the country has full confidence in meeting the growth targets for this year and remaining the biggest engine of world economic growth. Noting that China will advance high-quality development and continue to lead the efforts to improve the performance of the world economy, he said China will continue to nurture new quality productive forces in line with actual conditions, and is committed to high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. China will stay firmly on the path of green development and continue to be an important force for global green transition and an important part of the global effort to address climate change, Xi said. He said China will build new, open and higher-standard economic systems, continue to share China's development opportunities with the world, introduce more policies for voluntary and unilateral opening up, expand its globally oriented network of high-standard free trade areas, and open its door even wider to the world. Xi noted that China's development is inseparable from the Asia-Pacific, and it will in turn further benefit the region. "As long as we act in the spirit of openness and connectivity, the vast Pacific will become a thoroughfare for more prosperity and growth," he said, calling for joint efforts to enhance solidarity and cooperation, stand up together to the global challenges, and form a mighty force for the common prosperity of the world and a brighter future for humanity. (Source: Xinhua) Editor: Wang Shasha 25 years ago: Border between Thailand and Myanmar reopens after almost two-month closure On November 24, the border between Thailand and Myanmar was finally reopened after a seven-week shutdown. The ruling military junta in Myanmar had imposed an economic blockade in response to an attack on its embassy in Thailand. In October, five gunmen from the Vigorous Burmese Student Warriors (VBSW), an armed petty-bourgeois student movement formed out of the 8888 Uprising against the military juntas dictatorship and its disastrous economic policies, charged the Myanmar embassy in Thailand and rounded up 89 hostages. The armed attackers, carrying assault rifles, hand grenades, and grenade launchers, issued demands such as the formation of a national parliament based on the results of the 1990 elections. The Thai government reached an agreement whereby the VBSW militants released all hostages but were not charged with any crimes. This was seen as an affront to the Myanmar junta, which insisted that the armed students be arrested, tried, and convicted to suffocate any oppositional movement in a country on the brink of economic collapse. Only a couple of months before, the Myanmar ruling class had repressed anti-government protesters on the anniversary of the popular uprising in 1988. Thailands ruling class at first responded to the crisis by increasing pressure on the Myanmar government. Thai Interior Minister Sanan Kachornprasart tacitly encouraged the protests, stating, We dont consider them to be terrorists. They are student activists who are fighting for democracy. Shortly after the attack, the Bangkok Post declared that Myanmars junta will never have our sympathy, and that the Burmese leaders would do well to realize that the tide of history is against them and they would do well to help usher in democracy in their country or be swept aside. Myanmar-Thailand border In retaliation for Thailands favorable treatment of the VBSW, Myanmar closed the two nations long border, including the Ranong crossing in the south, the major Friendship Bridge and the Mae Sai crossing in northern Thailand. With trade cut off, the Thai economy suffered. Myanmar forbade Thai fishing vessels from entering its territorial waters. Some 400 Thai fishing vessels were impacted. The head of the provincial Fisheries Department at the southern Thai port of Ranong, Sutha Theareephat, said that fishing and related industries lost 43 million baht ($US1.1 million) a day. Meanwhile, the blockade hammered Myanmars poorest section with rising food and fuel costs in towns and cities near the Thai border. The border and political dispute was resolved when Thai Foreign Minister Surin Pitsuwan visited the Myanmar capital of Rangoon before a meeting in the Philippines of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN). Myanmar agreed to allow Thailand to deal with the five students under Thai law. In return, Thailand waived import duties on agricultural producers, renegotiated fishing contracts, and offered Myanmar a low-interest loan to construct a road from the city of Mae Sot in Thailand to Myanmar. The military junta also allowed Thai capitalists to continue exploiting more immigrant workers from Myanmar as a source of cheap labor. 50 years ago: UN passes resolution recognizing Palestinian right to return On November 22, 1974, the United Nations passed Resolution 3236 recognizing the right of the Palestinian people to national self-determination and to return to their homes from which hundreds of thousands had been displaced since 1948. The UN also granted the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) observer status in the UN General Assembly to speak on behalf of Palestinians. Since the 1967 Six Day War, Israel had occupied all Palestinian territories including Gaza and the West Bank. In that war Israel launched a surprise invasion into the neighboring Arab states, delivering significant military setbacks. In addition to Palestinian lands, Israel occupied the Egyptian Sinai Peninsula until the end of the Yom Kippur War in 1973. Yasser Arafat speaking before the UN on November 13, 1974 [Photo: UN Photo/DB] While the agreement signed by Egypt and Israel to end the Yom Kippur War returned the Sinai Peninsula and the Suez Canal to Egyptian control, it made no provisions for Palestinians living under occupation. Going back to the 1948 Nakba expulsion from their homes, many Palestinians had been living in large refugee camps in Syria, Jordan, Lebanon and Egypt. The UN resolution on Palestine stated, no just solution to the problem of Palestine has yet been achieved and it recognized that the problem of Palestine continues to endanger international peace and security. It further stated that the UN recognizes that the Palestinian people are entitled to rights of self-determination as laid out in the UN Charter and that the Palestinian people have been prevented from enjoying its inalienable rights. The resolution went on to state specifically that Palestinian refugees have the right to return to their homes and property from which they have been displaced and uprooted. It made special notes to indicate that the restoration of the rights and homelands of Palestinians was a fundamental prerequisite for establishing a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. The resolution passed by a vote of in the UN General Assembly of 89 for, 8 against, with 37 abstentions. Through the vote, the overwhelming majority of the world indicated that it supported the full rights of Palestinians and opposed the illegal actions of the US-backed Israeli regime and its imperialist ambitions in the Middle East. The votes against the resolution consisted only of the United States and its most closely controlled allied states including Bolivia, Chile, Nicaragua, Iceland, Norway, Costa Rica and, of course, Israel. The demands made by the resolution were of a generally correct and democratic character. However, the passage of the resolution also exposed the fact that the United Nations was totally useless as a tool to combat imperialism. Despite passing the resolution no action was taken that would have forced the end of the occupation of Palestine. The accession of the PLO to the UN also marked the beginning of the protracted transition of the organization from an anti-imperialist resistance group into an official organization that ultimately turned it into Israels Palestinian collaborator. 75 years ago: Labour government nationalizes the British iron and steel industries On November 24, 1949, the British parliament approved the Iron and Steel Act which nationalized large sections of the industry. Approximately 94 British companies that accounted for around half of the UKs iron and steel production were brought under public ownership, while around 2,000 smaller companies remained privately owned. The act was to take effect on February 15, 1951. Bringing iron and steel production under state control had been a policy proposal of the Labour Party since at least 1945, when it was featured in its party manifesto. Its aim was to reduce prices and keep steel produced by Britain competitive in the increasingly global economy. Labour MP John Jones would declare the following year that steel workers have no right to demand nationalization for themselves, but rather they would be expecting the industry to be nationalized for and on behalf of Britain Clement Atlee Notwithstanding the economic calculations, there was also a consideration within the British government that it was necessary to provide the working class with a so-called positive alternative to Communism, in the words of Labour MP Fred Mulley. Certain concessions had to be presented and granted to the workers to avoid a revolutionary upsurge of the most militant sections of the working class. This was a conception shared by the Conservative Party. Years earlier, Conservative MP Quinton Hogg had warned: If you dont give the people social reform they will give you social revolution. The Iron and Steel Act of 1949 was a continuation of previous nationalization policies undertaken by the Atlee Labour government in the post-World War II period. These included the coal industry in 1946, the electricity and transport sectors in 1947, and the gas industry in 1948. But unlike in those previous nationalization acts, the iron and steel corporations brought under state control in 1949 remained in operation under the management of boards appointed by the newly established Iron and Steel Corporation of Great Britain. Only the share capital of the companies was acquired by the state, an approach which was previously taken with the nationalization of the Bank of England in 1946. After only two years of public ownership, the Iron and Steel Act of 1949 was repealed by the subsequent Iron and Steel Act of 1953. Passed by the newly elected Conservative government, it began the process of re-privatization as the nationalized companies were sold back into the private sector. 100 years ago: First specimen of Australopithecus identified On November 24, 1924, Australian anthropologist Raymond Dart at the University of the Witwatersrand identified a skull discovered at a limestone quarry in Taung, South Africa as the first specimen of the hominin species Australopithecus africanus. He believed that the skull, now known as the Taung Child, was that of a child and that scratches on the surface indicated that it had been seized by a bird of prey but, more importantly, that it represented a new human ancestor, intermediate in evolution between earlier apes and modern humans. The cranial capacity, 400-500 cc, resembled that of a chimpanzee, but other features, such as the forehead and eye sockets, resembled those of humans. Darts initial classification of the skull was published in Nature in 1925 and was broadly criticized by his colleagues. Some felt that the fossil belonged to a species far closer to gorillas and chimpanzees, and that it did not belong to the human lineage at all. Others felt that there was simply not enough evidence to categorize it as a hominin. It took over two decades for Darts classification to be accepted, partially because further excavations in Africa revealed other specimens of hominins like the Taung Child. In 1947, one of Darts fiercest critics announced that he now accepted the classification of the Taung Child as an australopithecine, a view that is now generally accepted. The skull has subsequently been dated by radiometric analysis to about 2.8 million years before the present. Darts discovery was a huge advance in the understanding of human evolution. It is now thought that members of the genus he first identified inhabited southern Africa from 4.4 to 1.4 million years ago. Scientists hypothesize that members of the Australopithecus africanus species were probably omnivores who walked upright. Recent research which compared patterns of muscle attachments on finger bones of various hominins and apes indicates that A. africanus probably engaged in some tool use. Males are estimated to have weighed approximately 90 pounds (41 kg) and stood 4 feet 6 inches (138 cm) tall; females weighed about 66 pounds (30 kg) and stood about 3 feet 9 inches (115 cm) tall. Massachusetts teachers: Fill out the form below to learn more about founding a rank-and-file committee. Teachers and supporters display placards during a rally, Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, in Gloucester, Mass. [AP Photo/Steven Senne] Educators in the North Shore Massachusetts school districts of Beverly, Gloucester and Marblehead completed a week of strike action Friday, November 15, with negotiations remaining at an impasse. Teachers and paraprofessionals are demanding better wages and improved working conditions, including paid parental leave. Educators in the three districts voted overwhelmingly for strike action after working without contracts since August 2024. The Democratic Party is using anti-worker laws to break the strike. On Wednesday, Essex Superior Court approved fines of $50,000 a day against the National Education Association-affiliated unions, increasing by an additional $10,000 each day. By Friday, fines had accrued to $180,000 for the Beverly and Gloucester unions, while similar fines began to be levied Thursday against the Marblehead union. After a week on strike, there has been next to no progress in negotiations between the Gloucester, Beverly and Marblehead teachers unions and their respective school committees. The school committees have purposefully stalled negotiations in all three districts, aiming to starve the educators back to work without winning any meaningful improvements in wages or benefits. Officials in the cities of Gloucester and Beverly and the town of Marblehead insist that there is no money to meet the educators demands. These claims should be rejected by teachers and paraprofessionals. In Massachusetts, headed by Democratic Governor Maura Healy, public education is funded according to a convoluted formula, primarily from state and local property taxes, with a small portion coming from federal grants. Wealthier districts can tap higher property taxes from their wealthier residents, creating inequality in education between rich and poor districts. The Marblehead School Committee says that the Marblehead Education Associations (MEA) demand for a 34 percent increase in wages would produce a $7.5 million shortfall in their existing budget, while Beverlys school committee says the Beverly Teachers Associations (BTA) proposals would create a minimum projected shortfall of $14.4 million over the next three years. The struck districts claim the educators demands would bankrupt them. But high-quality public education is the basic social right of every child. There is more than enough wealth to fund schools in Massachusetts, which has the fourth largest percentage of millionaire households of the 50 US states, according to Kiplinger Personal Finance. The state is home to 22 billionaires, who have amassed their wealth through the exploitation of workers in sectors like technology, finance and healthcare. But the national teachers unions, the NEA and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), accept the claims of school districts that there is no money to pay for education, leaving educators who strike to fend for themselves within the framework of capitalist inequality in their fight for the wages and benefits they need and deserve. The incoming Trump administrations stated aim to eliminate the federal Department of Education and push for school privatization will further bankrupt school districts across the US. The heads of the NEA and AFT have sowed complacency in the face of Trumps pledge to dismantle public education because they accept the capitalist framework of education funding. NEA President Becky Pringle, who pulls in an annual salary of $495,787approximately 8.5 times that of the average public school teachers salary, largely sourced from educators union duesinsists that nothing has significantly changed in the aftermath of the Trump victory. On Trumps election, she said, Nothing will stop us from protecting, promoting and strengthening public education. We are doubling down on our fight for our students, our schools and our communities. We will not be deterred. What educators are demanding In all three districts, the union and school committee proposals for teacher pay and benefits are far apart. The proposals for paraprofessionals are widely divergent; the school committees insulting proposals would do next to nothing to lift these workers out of poverty. Gloucester Gloucester Mayor Greg Verga stated that to meet the demands of teachers the city would need to either raise taxes by roughly $400 per household or make significant cuts to other city agencies. He also said teachers demands could potentially lead to the layoff of two dozen teachers. As of November 12, the Gloucester Teachers Association (GTA) was asking for a 21.6 percent increase in teacher pay over four years, with the School Committee countering with only a 9 percent increase over 4 years, according to the Boston Globe. Paraprofessional starting pay is presently only $22,016. The GTA is demanding a starting salary of $37,142 in fiscal year 2028; the School Committee proposed a starting pay of $28,500 in fiscal year 2026 on October 22. The GTA and the School Committees proposals for paraprofessional parental leave are similar to those in Beverly and Marblehead. Abby Ash, a first grade teacher who is seven-and-a-half months pregnant, spoke about the Gloucester School Committees proposal on paid parental leave at a press conference November 16. Did they know that it takes six weeks for a mother to have to go back to the doctor to make sure she has healed appropriately?, she asked. That is not enough time, and thats for typical deliveries. If you have anything that goes wrong, youre eight weeks, 10 weeks out. What are those families going to do when they have to choosedoes my mom go back to work, or do we go unpaid and not get to pay the bills? This is unacceptable. She said educators were leaving the district. We have people not wanting to come here, because you do not care about them. You dont care about their families, and you are not going to unless we stand here, out here tonight, and we tell you that the wage proposal is not acceptable, the paid parental leave is not acceptable, the sick family leave time is not acceptable. We are here and we will stay here until we get our deal closed. Beverly As of November 11, the BTA proposed an average increase in teachers salaries of 8.1 percent this year and 4 percent per year for three years, according to the Globe. The district also proposes an 8.1 percent increase this year but only 4 percent per year for two years. The discrepancy in demands for paraprofessional wages and benefits is immense. On November 8, the BTA asked for a starting salary of $41,217 for fiscal year 2027, with the School Committee provocatively countering with a minimum starting salary of $16,850. The union proposed 11 weeks paid parental leave versus only three by the School Committee. Katie Jutras (left) and Mia Chavez Katie Jutras and Mia Chavez, high school students in Beverly, came to City Hall November 15 to support the striking educators. Katie said, Regarding everything with Trump and education I think that Im fearful about the quality of education going forward with him as president, because I think giving power to the states, and just given his policies and everything, its likely that a lot of education is going to be taught through a lens thats not entirely authentic. For example, in Florida with banned books, and them not wanting to teach any queer education or anything along those lines. I work at aftercare, Mia said. I make $17 an hour, and I make more than a para [paraprofessional] in a year of school. I make $17 an hour, and my paras make $20,000 a year as salary, and I probably make more than that. Asked whether students supported the teachers, she said, I think its half and half. I have a lot of friends who are very against it and just want to go back to school for their education, and they think the teachers should stop striking, and that its unfair that theyre trying to get what they want when they should just be negotiating. But I think thats completely wrong. I think what the teachers are negotiating for is so valid. Marblehead On November 9, the MEA proposed a 22.6 percent wage increase over four years for teachers, with the School Committee countering on November 11 with only 10.9 percent over four years, according to the Globe. MEA spokespersons told the Marblehead Current there had been no new tentative agreements since we began mediation. The Globe reports that current starting pay for Marblehead paraprofessionals is a miserly $11.93 per hour. The union is demanding $30,000 annual salary after four years, which would still be poverty wages. The School Committee is proposing paras be paid only $16.65 an hour after three years! Samantha Rosato, a tutor and paraprofessional in the Marblehead Public Schools (MPS), spoke at a solidarity rally. She said, The reality for tutors, para educators and permanent subs is that working for MPS means working for poverty wages. Para educators at MPS earn between $11.97 and $21.15 per top step per hour. Tutors earn between $25 and $30 per hour. Permanent subs start at around $23 per hour. It is not possible for an individual to survive on these salaries and getting by on these wages is a daily struggle for all of us. Many have multiple jobs. She added, Our members only agendas include ending the practice of poverty wages for our essential staff, establishing modern parental family and bereavement policies, so that the educators can be human beings and spend time with their families, safe schools where every child receives the support they need and competitive wages that ends our staffing crisis. That is our agenda. On November 9, the MEA proposed eight weeks of paid parental leave, with two weeks paid out of family leave and two more paid from sick leave. The School Committee has proposed educators receive only 12 days paid leave and up to 12 weeks total, to be paid out of accrued leave, meaning that if educators have not accrued enough leave they will not be paid beyond 12 days. What way forward? After a week on strike, there has been next to no progress in negotiations between the GTA, BTA and MEA and their respective school committees. Neither the NEA nor the MTA has issued any statement aimed at mobilizing their members against Massachusetts Democratic Party-led state governments draconian fees and injunctions against the strikers. The NEAs official web site carries no report of the educator strikes in Gloucester, Beverly and Marblehead. The escalation in the courts must be responded to in kind by expanding the struggle. Instead of submitting to the districts stalling tactics and refusal to negotiate, striking teachers should demand that their strike be spread to the 117,000 members of the Massachusetts Teachers Association (MTA) in districts across the state. To advance this struggle, rank-and-file committees of educators, in alliance with students and parents, must be organized in every school district to secure contracts that provide livable wages and working conditions to all school workers. Educators and residents must organize across districts to counter any threats of fines and criminal penalties faced by educators who strike to defend their interests. Striking North Shore educators should instruct their local unions to refuse to allow a penny of union members dues money be used to pay the Massachusetts court-ordered fines. They should not be coerced into accepting sellout contracts by the mounting gargantuan fines. The NEA has total assets of almost $400 million and raised $374.2 million in dues in 202223 from its approximately 3 million members. Strikers should demand that these funds be used to financially support strikers and their families in their fight for a decent contract. In the educators strike in Newton earlier this year, the Newton Teachers Association (NTA) proposed 21.5 percent in pay increases over four years, but in the end agreed to only 12.6 percent. Paraprofessionals also received a paltry 12.6 percent wage increase, plus some one-time payments of $5001,100, which did not make a dent in the losses the strikers incurred during the strike. The union agreed to pay the nearly $1 million in fines ordered by the state. Throughout the four years of the Biden administration, the union playbook has been to isolate workers struggles and restrict them to appealing to Democratic politicians to apply pressure on the state and city governments. The North Shore teachers strikes demonstrate the bankruptcy of this strategy. The experience in the Newton strike and the ongoing strikes on the North Shore demonstrates that the teachers union apparatus, and their political masters in the Democratic Party, will not defend educators right to pay and conditions that reflect their indispensable and highly skilled role in society and that workers need to take matters into their own hands. This weeks drops gear us up for winter with cozy staples and bold collabs. Staycoolnyc channels an equestrian theme, while ASAP Rocky x Puma heat things up with the Inhale Mesh sneaker. Madhappy and Spyder deliver a skiwear collab, and Cherry LA taps motorsports with Fox Racing. From Miu Mius upcycled scarf to Fear of Gods Brushed Hooded Bomber, these releases are for the chilly season. Check out our top picks for this weeks product releases below, and see our previous release picks here . If you missed it, be sure to also check out the best drops coming to ComplexCon 2024 . ASAP Rocky x Puma Inhale Mesh Puma Release Date: Available now Where to Buy It: complex.com/shop Price: $120 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following the Mostros release in September, ASAP Rocky and Puma have introduced the Inhale Mesh sneakers. It has a mesh upper, a translucent sole, and fluorescent flames along the profile inspired by the neon cityscape. Judging from the crowd Rocky and Puma pulled during the launch event in New York , it's safe to say supplies wont last long. Grab the Inhale Mesh in your size on the revamped Complex Shop. Essentials Holiday 24 Brushed Hooded Bomber Fear of God Essentials Release Date: Available now Where to Buy It: fearofgod.com Price: $220 Fear of God Essentials wraps up its collegiate-inspired narrative with the Holiday 2024 Collection. The Brushed Hooded Bomber is a versatile piece of outerwear made from plush heavyweight yarn. The Fear of God Essentials logo is embroidered on the back in satin-twill lettering. Beams Plus Boa Jacquard Cardigan Beams Plus Release Info: Available at Beams Plus Limited Store in LA, Nov 15-Dec 24, 620 Imperial Street, Los Angeles Price: $265 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beams is coming to the US for the first time and will be neighbors with Dover Street Market LA. The cult-favorite Japanese retailers Limited Store is opening this Friday until Christmas eve. You will find the brands FW 24 collection as well as collaboration pieces with brands like Palace and J.Crew. Denim Tears x The Met Knowbody Nose Tote Denim Tears Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Release Date: Available now Where to Buy It: denimtears.com , in-store at Africa Diaspora Goods, and The Met Fifth Avenue Price: $60 Denim Tears is celebrating the new Flight into Egypt: Black Artists and Ancient Egypt, 1876Now, opening at The Met on November 17th. Derived from the story of Sphinxs missing nose, Tremaine Emory created an original image that is featured on hoodies, tees, and totes. Make sure to check out the gift shop after the exhibit since the capsule will also be available at The Met. JNCO Majestik Jeans JNCO Release Date: Available now Where to Buy it: jnco.com Price: $320 JNCOs Majestik jeans are back, reviving early 2000s style with its Tribal collection. The Majestik features graphic side seams, Celtic-inspired embroidery, and a deep indigo wash on Dark Stone denim. Staying true to JNCOs signature ultra-wide leg, the Majestik offers a reimagined take for both devoted fans and a new generation. Staycoolnyc Rodeo Sweater https://www.instagram.com/p/DB_uCdCRU83/?hl=en&img_index=1 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Release Date: Available now Where to Buy It: staycoolnyc.com Price: $80 Staycoolnyc is tapping into an equestrian theme for its winter collection. The Rodeo Sweater features a cowboy graphic with a whip set against a fiery background. The festive red color makes this the perfect sweater for the holidays. Miu Miu Wool Scarf with Fringes Miu Miu Release Date: Available now Where to Buy It: In-store at Miu Miu boutiques Price: &1,550 Miu Miu kicked off their Upcycled project in 2020 and continues to show its commitment to circular fashion. The 2024 edition introduces a fully realized wardrobe, from leather jackets to skirts and handbags. The fringed scarf is knitted from yarns with different colors marled together, staying true to Miu Mius whimsical mood. Its a cozy and conscious statement. Cherry Los Angeles x Fox Racing Mechanic Jacket Cherry Los Angeles Release Date: Available now Where to Buy It: cherryla.com and in-stores at select retailers Price: $598 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cherry LA and Fox Racing collide for a motorsports-streetwear capsule. Taking inspo from various apparel worn in the racing industry, the Mechanic Jacket is garment-washed for that rugged, lived-in feel. Pair it with some double knee pants for a workwear-inspired look. Madhappy x Spyder Jagged 3L Gore-Tex Shell Jacket https://www.instagram.com/p/DCUaj18vPms/ Release Date: Available now Where to Buy It: madhappy.com Price: $595 Madhappy ventures into skiwear with the help of Spyder, delivering a capsule collection that fuses technical performance with playful design. The Jagged 3L Gore-Tex Shell Jacket has top-tier weather protection and a helmet-compatible hood along with everything you would expect from a ski jacket. Pair it with matching Gore-Tex pants and accessories the next time you hit the slopes. Circulate Black Cat Varsity Jacket Circulate Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Release Date: Available now Where to Buy It: circulateworldwide.com Price: TBD Circulate worked with the National Jazz Museum for their Holiday collection, and it hits all the right notes. The Black Cat Varsity Jacket is a tribute to New York's underground jazz scene and its rebellious spirit. It features letterman patches on the front and Circulates logo interpreted as a vintage music venue sign on the back. Nov. 16GRAND FORKS The North Dakota Museum of Art will present the Beo String Quartet, the second performance in "Myra Foundation Presents: Concerts in the Galleries" series, at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 17. The Pittsburgh-based quartet was founded by brothers Sean and Jason Neukom, who grew up in Devils Lake. They studied under their father, Rich Neukom, a legendary music teacher in the area, according to an event announcement. The quartet, which also includes cellist Ryan Ash and violinist Anthony Giordano, has become known as a daring, genre-defying ensemble. Trained in the classical tradition, the musicians are also well-versed in contemporary music. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sunday's concert will include music by Bach, Haydn and Brahms, as well as Philip Glass and a new work by composer and performer Sean Neukom entitled "El Balcon," based on a childhood memory. The piece is inspired by a fantastical story they heard, at a young age, from their mother, about a young girl who fell over a balcony railing, but while holding on with one hand, she felt a spirit push her up over the balcony. "(Their mother), of course, was the girl in the story," the museum announcement said. Growing up in Devils Lake, Sean and Jason Neukom attended the Dakota Chamber Music Camp in Minot during the summers and, later, were students of Jon Rumney at Minot State University. In the wake of their January 2023 debut at New York's Morgan Library and Museum, the Beo String Quartet garnered praise from the New York Classical Review, which wrote that its performance was "outstanding. ... The sheer sound of the quartet was invigorating and deeply satisfying. As was their artistry, which came across in both the programming and the playing ... skill, passion and strength ... sheer expressive force." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With 65 world premieres to its credit, the quartet has performed in concert throughout the United States, South America and Europe, and has been compared to the best among 21st century international string quartets. The Beo String Quartet will be featured performers at the Chamber Music America conference in February in Houston, according to the museum announcement. Sunday's concert is co-sponsored by the Northern Valley Youth Orchestras, through a grant from Arts Midwest. The NVYO will hold a private workshop with the Beo Quartet musicians after their performance Sunday, Nov. 17. At 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16, the quartet will present a free children's concert at the Grand Forks Public Library. And, on Monday, Nov. 18, the quartet will visit Winship Elementary School in Grand Forks and Emerado (North Dakota) Public School as part of the museum's "Monday Music in the Schools" program, funded by the Neel Fund, an entity of the Community Foundation of Grand Forks, East Grand Forks and Region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tickets for the Sunday's concert are $30 for museum members, $35 for non-members and $10 for students and military. Children ages 12 and younger are admitted free of charge. Visit the museum website: https://ndmoa.com . Tickets may also be purchased at the door, beginning at 1 p.m., but advance purchase is strongly recommended. The North Dakota Museum of Art address is 261 Centennial Dr. For more information, call the museum at (701) 777-4195 or email chambermusic@ndmoa.com . Editors note: Sign up for Unlocking the World, CNN Travels weekly newsletter. Get news about destinations, plus the latest in aviation, food and drink, and where to stay. If a steaming bowl of soup strikes you as the ultimate in old-fashioned comfort, youve got plenty of company. Soup is one of the worlds oldest and most universal foods, said Janet Clarkson, author of the book Soup: A Global History. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every culture has some kind of soup, she said. Its got very ancient roots. Early people simmered it in everything from turtle shells to lengths of bamboo, she writes in the book, turning out metal soup pots starting in the Bronze Age. Boiling food made it possible to subsist on stable grains, with herbs and other ingredients added for nourishment or medicinal purposes. Each time you deliver a pot of hearty soup (with perhaps a side of bread) to a friend with the sniffles, Clarkson said youre in fact carrying on an age-old tradition. Separating food and medicine thats not how ancient people thought of it, she said. I think in every country in the world, historically, some soups were seen as restorative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats true no matter what you call it. Today, soup leans brothy while stews are more substantial, but the worlds spoonable foods have never fit neatly into the two English-language categories. While Clarkson dove into centuries of etymology to trace the history of soup, potage and broth, she settled on a generously broad take. Just some stuff cooked in water, she wrote, with the flavored water becoming a crucial part of the dish. Its a definition that leaves room for the worlds tremendous culinary diversity. These are CNN Travels nominations for 20 of the best soups around the world: Banga | Nigeria Banga is so popular in Nigeria that shops sell ready-mixed packets of spice. - Shutterstock Fruits from the oil palm tree lend both fat and flavor to this soup from the Niger Delta, which also features fresh catfish, beef and dried seafood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its so popular that packets of ready-mixed banga spice are sold in shops. Most blends include African nutmeg, castor seed, orima, jansa and beletete leaves. These spices infuse a rich, red sauce thats the soups main draw: Soak it up with eba or a ball of starch, two Nigerian staples made from cassava but prepared with different methods. Beef pho (pho bo) | Vietnam Beef is simmered for hours with cinnamon, star anise and other warm spices to create a wonderfully aromatic base for this rice noodle soup. - Leisa Tyler/LightRocket/Getty Images Broth is simmered for hours with cinnamon, star anise and other warm spices to create a wonderfully aromatic base for this rice noodle soup. Pho is among Vietnams most recognized culinary exports, but the soup is a relatively new food, wrote Andrea Nguyen, author of The Pho Cookbook. And while todays pho restaurants serve a wide range of flavors, beef is the original. By 1930, Nguyen explained, the soup was served with slices of raw beef cooked gently in the broth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, beef pho remains the most beloved version in Vietnam, with options that include the original raw beef, a mix of raw and cooked beef, brisket and tendon. Borscht | Ukraine Borscht is beloved in Ukraine and across Eastern Europe. - Shutterstock Chunks of tender beets swim in brilliant red broth for a soup thats beloved in Ukraine and across Eastern Europe. Often topped with a rich dollop of sour cream, borscht is anything but basic beet soup. It gets a tangy kick from kvass, a lacto-fermented beet juice thats another regional specialty. And while the soup is sometimes attributed to Russian cuisine, that claim is contested. In 2022, UNESCO declared that borscht in Ukraine unites people of all ages, genders and backgrounds at the table and placed the soup on its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding. And individual Ukrainian chefs are doing their part to make the soup a symbol of the nation. Bouillabaisse | France Bouillabaisse is synonymous with Marseille, France. - Shutterstock Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A fishermans stew turned culinary icon, bouillabaisse distills classic Mediterranean flavors into a dish synonymous with the coastal city of Marseille. Saffron, olive oil, fennel, garlic and tomatoes blend with fish fresh from the sea. At one time, that fish would reflect each days catch, but things have gotten a bit stricter. According to signatories of the 1980 Bouillabaisse Charter a collective attempt by local chefs to ensure the quality of the French soup the most authentic recipe must include at least four kinds of seafood chosen from a list that includes monkfish and crab. Caldo verde | Portugal This hearty soup hails from Portugal's wine country. - Shutterstock Thinly sliced greens meld with potatoes and onions in this homey soup from Portugals wine-producing Minho region. Now, the soup is a culinary star from upscale cafes to rural kitchens, the definition of down-home comfort food. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In many versions, tender Portuguese chourico sausage adds an undercurrent of smoky, salty flavor that makes the soup even heartier. Enjoy alongside a glass of Minhos famed vinho verde wine. Chorba frik | Algeria, Libya and Tunisia Chorba frik is popular in North Africa after the sun sets during Ramadan. - Shutterstock Durum wheat harvested while green, called freekeh, adds satisfying heft and nourishment to this North African soup, which is especially beloved during the holy time of Ramadan. The tender grains absorb a tomato broth and aromatic spices, their flavor melding with chickpeas plus stewed chicken, beef, mutton or lamb. Serve with lemon wedges and a hunk of kesra bread. Chupe de camarones | Peru Chupe de Camarones, a creamy shrimp chowder with potatoes and corn, gets a kick from the addition of aji amarillo, a chili pepper. - Katherine Frey/The Washington Post/Getty Images This creamy shrimp chowder is a specialty of Arequipa, a historic city surrounded by towering volcanoes. Cold nights in the mountains are perfect for the hearty dish: Tender shrimp swim alongside chunks of Andean potatoes and corn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its got a kick, too. The addition of aji amarillo, a chili pepper with a lilting, fruity flavor, adds satisfying spice to balance out the rich and creamy ingredients. Maybe that explains the soups reputation as a powerful aphrodisiac. Gazpacho | Spain Gazpacho is a great way to enjoy a cold treat on a hot day. - Shutterstock Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Summer in Andalusia brings searing weather, ideal for cooling down with a bowl of this chilled vegetable soup. Todays most classic version includes tomatoes, cucumbers, garlic and olive oil, with a handful of stale breadcrumbs added for body. Arabs brought the dish to the Iberian Peninsula centuries before Spaniards tasted tomatoes, a New World ingredient. The original was a blend of bread, garlic and olive oil, pounded in a mortar and seasoned with vinegar. Groundnut soup | West Africa Sweet potatoes and okra are stars in this particular version of groundnut soup, popular throughout West Africa. - Shutterstock As with so many culinary treats, groundnut soup ignores international boundaries: Meat, fish or chicken simmered into a thick peanut soup is pure comfort food in countries across West Africa. Versions range from Gambian domoda the national dish to a Nigerian take cooked with bitter, leafy greens. No matter the country, such soups and stews are creamy, rich and salty, a satisfying combination that often gets a fiery jolt from the addition of Scotch bonnet peppers. Gumbo | United States Chicken, sausage and seafood festoon this gumbo. - Tom McCorkle/The Washington Post/Getty Images Cultures and flavors meld in a hearty soup thats a star of Louisiana cuisine, influenced by West African, Native Choctaw and French cuisines. Versions made with seafood, chicken and sausage are among the most popular today, but there are myriad ways to make this Southern specialty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ground, dried sassafras leaves called file and long harvested by the Choctaw people give many gumbo recipes a distinctive spice. Some cooks thicken their soup with a cooked flour paste called roux, while others swear by sauteed slices of okra. Every possible version is on display each year at the World Champion Gumbo Cookoff in New Iberia, Louisiana, where cooks battle for some serious soup-master bragging rights. Harira | Morocco Moroccan harira uses chickpeas in a savory tomato broth to superb effect. - Shutterstock When the sun sets during the month of Ramadan, many Moroccans break their fasts with a hot bowl of this comforting chickpea stew. Cinnamon, ginger, turmeric and pepper lend warming spice to the savory tomato broth, which soaks into tender chickpeas. Its also widely enjoyed in Algeria. While vegetarian recipes are popular, the most classic version is simmered with tender chunks of lamb or other meat. Its not just fasting fare for Muslims; some North African Jews also prepare harira to break the annual fast of Yom Kippur. Kharcho | Georgia A plum sauce gives kharcho its zesty flavor. - Shutterstock Tart plum sauce called tkemali adds bright, zesty flavor to this traditional soup, which is one of Georgias most beloved dishes. Its made with unripe plums, whose sour note balances the richness of fatty beef and ground walnuts cooked into the soup. The aromatic kick, though, comes from the spice mix khmeli suneli, a blend of coriander, savory, fenugreek, black pepper, marigold and more. Lanzhou beef noodle soup | China Of course a Chinese soup makes the best 20 list -- one taste of lanzhou beef noodle soup will tell you why. - Shutterstock Shaping or pulling la mian noodles by hand for this traditional soup is an art in itself. Artisans use a finely milled, high-gluten flour and alkaline powder to mix a stretchy dough, then pull and fold a single piece of dough to make enough noodles for a bowl of soup. Slip them into a bowl of beef broth for a world-class soup that includes tender beef, pale slices of radish, chili oil and fresh herbs. (At some shops, diners may even ask for noodles of a preferred thickness and shape.) Mohinga | Myanmar This version of mohinga features catfish, rice noodles, chicken, eggs and lime. - Shutterstock Soup is whats for breakfast in much of Myanmar, where sidewalk vendors and tea shops hawk steaming bowls of mohinga out of enormous vats. The soul of this noodle soup is the aromatic broth, which is simmered with herbs and thickened with toasted rice powder. Fish lends added richness, while the thin rice noodles are perfect for slurping. Mohinga is so beloved that its gone from breakfast dish to anytime snack, and each region has its own twist on the classic soup. Menudo | Mexico Menudo is a traditional Mexican soup made with tripe and hominy. It's touted for its curative effects for hangovers. - Shutterstock Tripe simmered for hours in a piquant, garlicky broth is the ultimate Mexican hangover cure, but menudo goes far beyond morning-after remedies. Its a favorite at weddings and big occasions, too, when an enormous pot of the traditional soup can feed dozens of guests. Its sheer comfort food, with kernels of hominy that get fresh bite from a garnish of raw onions, chiles and cilantro. Choose from one of two main varieties: Menudo rojo turns a deep red from chiles in the broth, while Sonoran-style Menudo blanco is a milder alternative. Moqueca de camarao | Brazil Shrimp floating in a coconut broth? Count us in for moqueca de camarao. - Shutterstock Palm oil and tomatoes tint coconut broth a warm, orangey red in this specialty from the Bahia region of Brazil, where locals eat steaming bowls on even the hottest days. This soups real draw is sweet, tender shrimp floating in the broth, however. Traditionally, moqueca de camarao is cooked in a handmade pot made from black clay and the sap of mangrove trees, then brought to the table in the same authentic vessel. Soto ayam | Indonesia This is chicken noodle soup with an indulgent Indonesian twist. - Shutterstock Chicken noodle soup may reach its culinary pinnacle in this piquant Indonesian dish. Spices such as fresh turmeric, star anise, cinnamon, lemongrass and lime leaves combine for deeply layered aroma and flavor, with the jammy yolks of soft-boiled eggs to add extra richness. Every part of Indonesia has a local twist, and the soup is also beloved in Singapore, Malaysia and in faraway Suriname in South America, where the recipe arrived with Javanese immigrants. Eat topped with fried shallots, fresh limes and a fiery scattering of sliced red chiles. Tom yum goong | Thailand Hitting major taste sensations -- sweet, sour, spicy and salty -- tom yum goong's broth is the ideal environment for sweet, tender shrimp or other seafood. - Natasha Breen/REDA&CO/Universal Images Group/Getty Images Sweet, sour, spicy and salty, this soups magnificent broth is the ideal foil for sweet, tender shrimp. Aromatic ingredients include galangal, lemongrass and lime leaves, while slivers of bright red birds eye chilis add additional heat. Tom yum goong is just one of many varieties of tom yum soup in Thailand this version comes enriched with fat prawns, and is a favorite with many diners. Tonkotsu ramen | Japan This classic ramen soup is flavored with pork bones. - Shutterstock Long-simmered pork bones impart intense flavor to this classic ramen, whose broth is cloudy with marrow and fat. Its a signature of Fukuoka Prefecture on the southerly island of Kyushu, but the rich soup is now served in ramen shops across the country (and world). While the indulgent broth is the star of tonkotsu ramen, a bowl isnt complete without slices of pork belly and a tangle of noodles that are hard in the center. Eat with a pair of chopsticks and a flat-bottomed spoon, and dont forget to slurp its believed to enhance the flavor. Yayla corbasi | Turkey Yayla corbasi speaks to a time when soup and medicine weren't considered such separate things. - Shutterstock Boiled rice or barley adds grainy sweetness to this creamy yogurt soup. Its believed to ward off colds during winter; some Turkish hospitals even serve yogurt soup to recovering patients. A crumble of dried mint helps balance the yogurts slight tang. Serve with a pillowy round of fresh pita bread. Jen Rose Smith is a writer based in Vermont. Find her work at jenrosesmith.com, or follow her on Twitter @jenrosesmithvt. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com When you think of the Netherlands, canals, tulips and biking everywhere may come to mind and those are among the reasons Americans are drawn to the country. Over 31,000 Americans live in the Netherlands, representing around 6% of the countrys total immigrants, and that number has increased over the years. I was lured by the scenic charm which the Netherlands certainly delivered. What I couldnt have imagined was the peace this country would give me in a decision that wasnt easy for me to make: having children. For a time, the thought of having kids brought on so much anxiety that I kept putting it off, and instead focused on my career and building a business. I didnt expect how much this small country would make parenting feel so natural. Here are some unexpected things I learned about raising my child here. Biking At 30 Weeks Pregnant Johner Images / Getty Images/Johner RF You can imagine the look on my face when I showed up for my first midwife appointment and saw a line of parked bikes with pregnant women hopping off them, bellies much bigger than mine. When I thought about pregnancy, I imagined morning sickness, resting at home and counting down the weeks until week 40, but that was not my experience here. Instead, I joined the crew who biked to every midwife appointment until I couldnt anymore. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yes, I was lucky to have a relatively smooth pregnancy. However, pregnancy in the Netherlands is generally treated as a natural part of life. Doctors, midwives and coworkers alike approach it pragmatically. My experience is that most people dont see you as fragile; rather, they encourage you to listen to yourself, make your own choices and adapt as you need. Its just another season of womanhood. As Andrea Hamlet, an international board-certified lactation consultant from California whos lived in the Netherlands for over six years, told HuffPost, Pregnancy here is seen as a natural process, not a medical condition. I was able to relax in a way I dont think I could have back home. Postnatal Care And Parental Leave georgeclerk via Getty Images Living in a foreign country often means you dont have family around for support. Thats why the postnatal care in the Netherlands is truly a lifeline. Here, new parents receive the support of a kraamzorg, a maternity nurse who visits your home every day for about a week after birth and helps with the essentials like feeding and bathing the baby, understanding your babys signals, while also handling household chores so that you can focus on healing and bonding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also, parental leave makes it easier to make long-term adjustments and focus on your life with a child. In the Netherlands, mothers are entitled to a minimum of 16 weeks of maternity leave (6 weeks before the birth and 10 weeks afterward). Both parents also share 26 weeks of parental leave, with nine of those weeks paid at 70% of their income. Paid leave can be used within the first year of the childs life. The remaining time is available as unpaid leave until the child turns 8 years old, allowing families to customize their time at home as needed. In addition to the leave policy, the Netherlands provides financial support for parents of young children. They can receive up to 282 euros per quarter when their child is a newborn to help with basic expenses, and tax credits are available to reduce child care costs. Letting Kids Be Independent Realredhair / Getty Images/iStockphoto One of the biggest surprises for anyone visiting or raising children here is the level of independence kids have. In the U.S., the thought of letting a child walk to school or take public transportation alone can make a parents heart skip a beat. However, in the Netherlands, fostering independence from a young age is the norm, and the community completely supports it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sim Sawyers, an American mom and photographer living in Amsterdam, noticed this difference immediately. In the U.S., [many] kids dont take the bus or walk to school; everything is very car-centric. Even as teenagers, theyre often dependent on parents to drive them places, which can feel both restrictive and unsafe at times. Here, I love how much freedom kids are given its good for them to grow up with that sense of independence. Hamlet also shared her relief in watching her son explore freely: He can meet friends at the movies, go for a drink, or bike to the ice rink. Hes almost 14, and Im so grateful he can have the same kinds of experiences I had in the 80ssafely. My only concern here is traffic, and I dont worry about things like drugs, drunk driving, or guns. A Community That Thinks About Kids Images By Tang Ming Tung / Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One thing that immediately stands out here is how integrated children are into everyday life. Family-friendly spaces and a judgment-free approach to raising your children are woven into the community. UNICEFs study on child well-being consistently ranks the Netherlands among the top countries for childrens happiness, mental health and safety. This is due, in part, to the supportive environment parents experience here, which extends across all aspects of society. What Ive seen is theres a collective understanding that everyone is doing their best, and judgment around parenting choices is rare. Hamlet described it as such a relief: I dont feel judged by other parents. I love the family-oriented aspect of this country, she told HuffPost. The community rallies around families: High-end cafes and neighborhood restaurants offer kid-friendly spaces with high chairs, play areas and childrens menus. Parks are abundant, and the safety of these spaces gives parents the peace of mind to allow children the freedom to play and explore. Sawyers highlighted how, even in a bustling city, its incredibly child-friendly, with a park on almost every block. She marveled at the inclusivity, adding, You walk into a high-end cafe, and they have four high chairs and a whole bookshelf full of games for kids in the back. Its not something youd expect, but its there, and its normal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This acceptance of children and emphasis on their well-being makes navigating parenthood easier, creating a welcoming community for families. Im grateful we made the move and found a community that values happiness, independence, well-being and inclusivity. This has made the journey of parenthood much more peaceful and given me the freedom to raise my child in a way that aligns with my values.This article originally appeared on HuffPost. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) The Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) is investigating a fatal shooting that happened at a bowling alley in Hermitage on Saturday night. Just after 10 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 16, officers responded to the incident at Hermitage Strike and Spare Family Fun Center in the 3400 block of Lebanon Pike. Officials said 20-year-old Demarius Donnell Itiat was shot and killed inside the bowling alley after being involved in an altercation with two men from a group, along with another witness, that led to gunshots being fired and sent people running out of the building. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Man dead after shooting outside shopping complex on Ewing Drive Metro Nashville dispatch initially told News 2 the victim was transported to a nearby hospital with life-threatening injuries. However, MNPD later clarified the victim was shot multiple times and was pronounced dead at the scene. One person was taken into custody by officers after the shooting, according to dispatch. There is no word on what happened to that individual. Shortly after 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 17, the MNPD asked for the publics assistance identifying a group of four people including two men who were reportedly involved in the fight, as well as two women who were seen entering the business around 10 p.m. Saturday and were wanted for questioning. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com On Sunday night, authorities announced all four individuals came forward voluntarily and were interviewed by detectives from the Homicide Unit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A self-defense claim by the 23-year-old shooter is under investigation. No charges have been placed at this point, officials said, adding that it appears the two sides attended rival high schools and had previous issues. No additional details were released about Saturday nights deadly incident. If you have any information about the shooting, youre asked to call Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. Download the News 2 app to stay updated on the go. Sign up for WKRN email alerts to have breaking news sent to your inbox. Find todays top stories on WKRN.com for Nashville, TN and all of Middle Tennessee. This is a developing story. WKRN News 2 will continue to update this article as new information becomes available. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Editor's note: This is a developing story and is being updated. Two people were killed and seven injured, including two children, in the city of Mykolaiv amid Russias mass drone and missile attack, regional governor Vitalii Kim reported on Nov. 17. The attack damaged several private residences, a multi-story building, cars, a shopping center, and an infrastructure facility, according to the governor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Multiple loud explosions were also reported in the capital, Kyiv, between 6:30 and 7:15 a.m. local time, according to a Kyiv Independent journalist on the ground. Kyiv Mayor Vitalii Klitschko said that as a result of falling drone debris, an apartment on the fourth floor of a five-story residential building caught fire in the Pechersk neighborhood of the city. One person was hospitalized as a result of the attack, while one other person received medical treatment on-site. Further explosions were also heard in the cities of Kropyvnytskyi, Rivne, Ivano-Frankivsk, Cherkasy, Dnipro, Vinnytsia, Kryvyi Rih, Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, and Khmelnytskyi Oblast. Multiple cruise, ballistic, and hypersonic missiles were reportedly launched from the Black Sea, as well as Russia's Astrakhan Oblast and Krasnodar Krai, toward multiple regions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Russia launches large-scale missile, drone attack on Ukraine, fire, casualties reported in Kyiv Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. A total of 55 infants were being treated at the hospital at the time of the fire AP Photo The NICU at the hospital in Jhansi, India, on Nov. 15. The NICU at the hospital in Jhansi, India, on Nov. 15. Ten newborn babies are dead after a fire ravaged a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in a hospital. On Friday, Nov. 15, the fire occurred at the Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College Hospital in Jhansi city in Indias Uttar Pradesh state, according to the BBC. A total of 55 infants were being treated at the hospital, Bimal Kumar Dubey, a local official, told the Associated Press. The dozens of babies that survived are currently receiving medical care, per the outlet, with at least 16 in critical condition, the BBC reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the AP, which cited eyewitnesses, firefighters began their rescue "about 30 minutes" after the fire began. Initial findings, the outlet said, indicate that errors in safety protocols such as expired fire extinguishers and fire alarms that were not working are likely the cause of the incident. Brajesh Pathak, the deputy chief minister of the state, told the AP that the fire safety systems at the hospital had previously been inspected in February, and a practice drill occurred in June. The cause of the fire will be probed, he said, according to The Guardian. If any lapses are found, strict action will be taken against those responsible and no one will be spared. AP Photo Firefighters work after the blaze at the hospital in Jhansi, India, on Nov. 15. Firefighters work after the blaze at the hospital in Jhansi, India, on Nov. 15. Related: Newborn Baby Girl Found Dead Inside of Idaho 'Safe Haven' Box: 'A Heartbreaking Situation' The BBC reported that three of the 10 babies who were killed in the blaze have yet to be identified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When the fire broke out, I couldn't go inside to rescue my baby. How could I? When no one was able to get inside, how could anyone hand me my baby? a mother told ANI news agency of her 10-day-old child, per the BBC. If the safety alarm had worked, we could have acted sooner and saved more lives, Naresh Kumar, a parent who lost his baby, said to the AP. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. After the incident, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a message on X, formerly Twitter, calling the deaths "heartbreaking." "My deepest condolences to those who have lost their innocent children in this. I pray to God to give them the strength to bear this immense loss," he wrote, adding of the investigation, which remains ongoing: "The local administration, under the supervision of the state government, is making every possible effort for relief and rescue." A 12-year-old was arrested in connection with a shooting and charged with attempted murder, the Richland County Sheriffs Department announced. Just before 7 p.m. on Nov. 11, Richland County deputies responded to the 3600 block of Ranch Road behind a restaurant in Columbia for a shooting. They found a 14-year-old with multiple gunshot wounds. An investigation found that the 12-year-old and four other juveniles got into an argument when the 12-year-old pulled out a gun and began shooting, officials said. The suspected shooter then fled before law enforcement arrived. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The injured 14-year-old was taken to a local hospital in stable condition. The 12-year-old was identified in an investigation and turned themselves into the Richland County Sheriffs Department headquarters on Friday. The child is also charged with possession of a weapon under the age of 18 and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. Other juveniles involved were cleared of criminal charges. A different investigation discovered that the same 12-year-old is the suspect in another crime and was charged with armed robbery. Around 2 p.m. March 1, 2024, deputies were called for an incident of strong armed robbery at the 2200 block of East Boundary Road, the sheriffs department said. The child will be booked at the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice. We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. How safe is that jar of peanut butter sitting in your pantry? Chances are that it's pretty darn safe indeed The vast majority of Americans eat peanut butter regularly, and cases of food poisoning or harm associated with the spread are thankfully few and far between. That's not to say that they're nonexistent, though. Peanut butter, the snack food with some truly bizarre origins, can be contaminated during its production process. When the producers who made it or the retailers who sold it found out that their products aren't up to scratch, they can be sent down the rabbit hole of a recall to prevent further harm. The causes of peanut butter recalls are pretty standard, but that doesn't mean that they're any less serious. Salmonella contamination can be a particular problem, and in the past has led to some massive recalls of the spread and associated products, with a few going down in history as being some of the most dangerous ever. Other times, peanut butter can be contaminated with foreign materials like metal shavings, which we'd assume you don't want spread into your peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Once you have a look at these recalls, you'll definitely pay more attention next time you grab your jar out the cupboard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: The 18 Unhealthiest Store-Bought Sliced Breads You Can Buy J. M. Smucker's Peanut Butter Was Recalled After Multiple People Became Ill Jif Creamy Peanut Butter - J. M. Smucker J. M. Smucker's peanut butter products are absolutely everywhere and unfortunately, this means that when things go wrong, they go really wrong. This was the unfortunate reality in 2022, when the company was forced to recall certain types of its Jif peanut butter following a Salmonella outbreak. It began in May of that year, when the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (or FDA) began investigating a multistate outbreak of the bacterial disease. As it dug deeper into the investigation, it discovered that the majority of people who became sick had reported eating Jif peanut butter beforehand, with analysis of the products showing a strain of Salmonella that had previously been found in a J. M. Smucker's plant. A big recall of its products ensued for items sold in Canada as well as the United States. It wasn't just jars of peanut butter that needed to be tracked down, either. Certain items made with Jif peanut butter, like Super Asian Chicken Salads sold via Amazon, also had to be recalled. The scale and severity of the outbreak was so bad that the FDA ended up issuing a warning letter to J. M. Smucker's, which it published online for everyone to see. Talk about embarrassing, huh? Far better to skip the risk and make your own creamy homemade peanut butter instead. The Peanut Corporation Of America's Recall Followed One Of The Most Dangerous Outbreaks Of Salmonella Ever Jar of peanut butter with shelled and unshelled peanuts - New Africa/Shutterstock Few food recalls are as notable as the Peanut Corporation of America's recall of its peanut butter products shipped across several years, which led to the bankruptcy of the company and the sentencing of its president to 28 years in prison. The recall kicked off in 2009, when it was found that the company had been shipping peanut butter, as well as other peanut products, that had been contaminated with Salmonella from its Georgia-based facility. The scale of the outbreak that it was responding to was enormous: hundreds upon hundreds of people had become sick from eating the corporation's products, with nine people ultimately tragically losing their lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A further investigation into the outbreak revealed a terrifying picture of poorly-followed food standards, unhygienic production plants, and mass deception of the Peanut Corporation of America's product's safety. It was found that the Georgia plant was completely unsanitary, with dead cockroaches, leaking roofs, and a history of Salmonella. Furthermore, it was discovered that food that had tested positive for Salmonella had been shipped out anyway, other food hadn't been tested properly, and that president Stewart Parnell had put profits over safety by suggesting that the contaminated products would have cost the company money if they were disposed of. It remains a terrifying example of what can happen when food standards aren't adhered to. In 2024, An Aflatoxin Contamination Prompted A Recall Eden All Natural Peanut Butter - Eden All Natural / Facebook While many recalls are caused by fairly common bacterial contaminations like Salmonella or E. coli, others are prompted by slightly rarer but no less dangerous issues. This occurred in 2024, when a South African-based peanut butter company had to recall multiple different products due to the presence of Aflatoxin. Four different brands made by the House of Natural Butters were recalled across the country, as the levels of mycotoxins in their respective peanut butters was found to be way too high. Most cases of food poisoning are caused by bacteria, but Aflatoxin is slightly different: This fungus-produced toxin thrives in hot and humid areas, and often contaminates dry foods like rice and nuts, including peanuts. Exposure to high levels of Aflatoxin can lead to a host of unpleasant health consequences, like nausea, vomiting, and convulsions. It can also be incredibly impactful on your organs and especially your liver, leading to potential liver injury in the short-term, and a higher incidence of liver cancer and cirrhosis when exposed to it long-term. A Stainless Steel Fragment Caused Skippy To Recall Multiple Peanut Butters Skippy Reduced Fat Super Chunk Peanut Butter - Skippy Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can make some pretty big mistakes with peanut butter, but so can manufacturers and one of the biggest is to fill it with shards of stainless steel. Unfortunately, Skippy made that horrific scenario a potential reality back in 2022. The company had to recall three of its peanut butter products as some of them might have contained a small piece of steel that had come off one of the pieces of manufacturing equipment in the facility used to produce the spread. There hadn't been any complaints from customers about finding the said piece of metal in their peanut butter, but once the problem was discovered, Skippy jumped into action to get its jars back. What was especially notable about this recall was how large it was. Skippy had to recall well over 9,300 cases of its peanut butter, equating to a grand total of 161,692 pounds of product. It seems that all of this was recalled over just one small piece of metal, which was no doubt a painful pill for the company to swallow. It goes to show, though, that food companies don't (or shouldn't) take any risks when it comes to customer safety. In 2012, A Huge Selection Of Peanut Butters Were Recalled Because Of Salmonella Concerns Open jar of peanut butter with spoon inside - Subbotina Anna/Shutterstock Salmonella causes approximately 1.35 million illnesses and hundreds of deaths per year in the United States, according to the CDC. As such, taking measures to prevent its spread is vital, and food companies have an enormous responsibility to prevent contaminated products from doing harm. Sunland Inc. learned this the hard way in 2012 when it had to recall a wide range of its peanut butters, as well as its almond butter products, because of potential Salmonella contamination. Crunchy, creamy, and organic varieties that were sold under a range of brand names had to be tracked down. Unfortunately, unlike other recalls, this wasn't one of those "just in case" scenarios. Sunland Inc. was forced into the recall after 29 people reported becoming sick with Salmonella across 18 states over the course of several months. A link was found between these cases and Sunland products, and the recall ensued. The company wasn't helped by the fact that the products it was recalling had been manufactured over a span of almost five months, making the scale of the job pretty massive. Winn Dixie's Peanut Butter Recall Was Prompted By Toxins Heap of crunchy peanut butter on knife - Skhoward/Getty Images Peanut butter has been a staple in kitchens for decades, and is used in everything from curries to peanut butter cookies. Over those decades, there have been a lot of recalls. Keen-eyed observers of the food industry might remember one occurring way back in 2003, with Southern supermarket Winn-Dixie coming into the firing line. The supermarket chain had to issue a recall for its peanut butter thanks to the discovery that it had high levels of Aflatoxin, which has the potential to cause some nasty symptoms and long-term health consequences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This recall was marked as Class II, meaning that while it wasn't considered to carry the potential for serious injury or death (as the case often is with undeclared allergens), it was still serious enough to require immediate attention. It was also a voluntary recall, meaning that Winn-Dixie was prompted to do so by its obligation to keep its customers safe, as opposed to the FDA mandating it. Luckily, Winn-Dixie rolled up its sleeves and tracked down its products. Good thing, too, as there was a lot of peanut butter that could have been dangerous: In total, over 223,000 pounds of product had to be recalled. Inspired Organics Recalled Peanut Butter And Other Nut Butters In 2018 Inspired Organics Creamy Peanut Butter - Inspired Organics Does it pay to buy organic? Sure, it may be more expensive, but you get to bask in the warm glow of wholesomeness when throwing those organically-produced items in your shopping cart, right? Well, that might be true most of the time, but in 2018, this wholesome glow was scrubbed out for customers buying peanut butter made by Inspired Organics. The company issued a recall of its Organic Peanut Butter, Organic Almond Butter, and Organic Tahini Butter due to potential Listeria contamination, after two previous products that Inspired Organics had recalled also tested positive for the bacteria. So much for healthy living, right? Unfortunately, this wasn't the kind of recall that was isolated to a few stores, a single state, or even just one country. Inspired Organics had distributed its products far and wide, reaching everywhere from Florida to Ontario, Canada. Inspired Organics couldn't even limit its recall to products made in a specific timespan: It had to track down all of its lots, regardless of best by date. ConAgra's Peanut Butter Recall Resulted In Legal Action Peanut butter being spooned out of jar - Sanny11/Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most of the time, large food companies emerge from recalls relatively unscathed, with nothing more than a slap on the wrist and a dented reputation. Other times, things can get far more serious. Food giant ConAgra discovered this in 2007, when it had to recall its peanut butter thanks to the presence of Salmonella. The company was prompted into action after testing performed in several states found Salmonella in the peanut butter made in its Georgia factory, and it subsequently recalled all varieties of its Peter Pan and Walmart Great Value peanut butters. That wasn't the end of the story, though. Following the recall, an investigation occurred into what exactly ConAgra's actions were. Investigators found that the company had shipped peanut butter containing Salmonella from Georgia to Texas, and that it had failed to fully address the circumstances in its factory that led to the previous detection of Salmonella in 2004. In total, more than 700 people became sick in connection with ConAgra's products. The company was ultimately hit with a criminal misdemeanor charge that it pleaded guilty to, prompting a $11.2 million bill, $8 million of that being a criminal fine. Salmonella Prompted A J.M. Smucker's Chunky Peanut Butter Recall Smucker's Natural Creamy Peanut Butter - J.M. Smucker How do you like your peanut butter? Smooth or chunky? How about sanitary and free of Salmonella? In 2011, J.M. Smucker found out (if it didn't already know) that no matter the style of peanut butter, customers usually prefer that it doesn't cause them harm. Its Smucker's Natural Peanut Butter had to be recalled due to concerns that it was contaminated with Salmonella. While the company hadn't been made aware of any people who had become sick after eating it, they still pulled the trigger on the recall just in case, after finding that Salmonella was detected in routine testing of its spread. On the plus side for J.M. Smucker (and for customers), the amount of peanut butter that it had to recall was relatively low, with only around 3,000 jars affected. The negative side, though, was that these jars had ended up everywhere. The peanut butter had been shipped to 24 states in total, mainly across the Northeast but with some of them reaching as far west as Colorado. It was arguably more annoying for the company to try and find the odd jar here and there than just recall all of its product, but we're thankful that it didn't affect more items. Metal Contamination Led To A 2015 Peanut Butter Recall Skippy Reduced Fat Creamy Peanut Butter - Skippy Contamination from metal objects is a depressingly common occurrence when it comes to food recalls, and somewhat strangely, it frequently happens with peanut butters. While employees are generally pretty good at catching contaminated items before they leave the production facility, sometimes things slip through the net. This happened in 2015 when an occurrence of metal contamination led to a recall of Skippy peanut butter, after products that were meant to be destroyed slipped out of the production facility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Apparently, peanut butter made at the company's Little Rock plant had been found to have metal shavings in it. Skippy employees did the right thing immediately and took the product away to be destroyed. However, it seems that one pallet went under the radar, and somehow it ended up in the back of a truck on its way to stores which meant that Skippy, somewhat embarrassingly, had to then hunt down 153 cases of its reduced fat peanut butter. Thankfully, nobody had reported finding any metal pieces in their peanut butter spread at the time of recall, but given that this was clearly Skippy's mistake, it couldn't just let it slide. Suma Organic Peanut Butter Was Recalled Due To A Choking Hazard Suma Organic Crunchy Peanut Butter - Suma One of the biggest concerns when it comes to foreign objects ending up in food is that they could cause serious harm, or even death. This was the thinking behind a 2015 recall that took place in the UK, when food company Suma had to recall its 700-gram jars of unsalted Organic Crunchy Peanut Butter. The recall was issued by the United Kingdom's equivalent of the FDA, the Food Standards Agency, after fears that a potential foreign body in its product could result in someone choking. Interestingly, neither the Food Standards Agency nor Suma stated what exactly the foreign body was. It could have been anything from a piece of plastic, to a fragment of metal, to a stray part of rubber that had come off one of its machines in the production line. Thankfully, Suma only had to deal with lots that had one single best by date, and it appears that nobody was seriously affected by eating the product in question. A 2011 Recall Was Prompted By Salmonella Rows of Skippy Peanut Butter - Justin Sullivan/Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Salmonella struck yet again in 2011, and this time it was Skippy's turn. The peanut butter brand had to issue a recall for two of its biggest-name products, its Skippy Reduced Fat Creamy and Super Chunk Peanut Butter spreads, because it thought that they could have been contaminated with the bacteria. The issue was discovered after Unilever, the company that had owned Skippy before its sale to Hormel in 2013, found traces of Salmonella in testing of the final product, raising alarm bells and prompting a recall list to be drawn up. As ever with these things, this was a pretty complicated job for Skippy. While it only had to find products with a few different use by dates, it had to source peanut butter in 16 states. Most of these states were concentrated in the Northeast, but Skippy also needed to recall items that had made it all the way down to Arkansas. The good news was that no one seemed to get sick from the affected products. A Kraft Food Peanut Butter Recall Was Responsible For More Than 100 Cases Of Salmonella Swirl of peanut butter in glass bowl on brown table - Spalnic/Shutterstock Salmonella can strike anywhere in the world. In 1996, it was Australia's turn, when the country faced a mammoth Salmonella crisis that was prompted by Kraft Foods. Kraft, which was the largest manufacturer of peanut butter in Australia at the time, had to recall its two main peanut butter brands following a massive outbreak of Salmonella, which had been linked to a batch of unsanitary peanuts used for the products. If you're eating anything while reading this, we recommend you pause here: The reason the peanuts were unsanitary was because they had been contaminated with mouse droppings. Unfortunately, Kraft didn't have any chance of containing the outbreak. Around 500 people in total became ill with Salmonella poisoning, causing an enormous dent in confidence for the brand and a massive switch to other peanut butter providers. The outbreak led to a massive public outcry and a class-action lawsuit filed by over 900 individuals who had alleged that they became sick from eating the peanut butter. Kraft settled via compensation to the affected parties. Hungry for more? Sign up for the free Daily Meal newsletter for delicious recipes, cooking tips, kitchen hacks, and more, delivered straight to your inbox. Read the original article on The Daily Meal. New research has shed light on the skeletal remains of at least 42 children, aged between two and seven, discovered at Templo Mayor, the central religious complex of Tenochtitlan (modern-day Mexico City). Tenochtitlan was the ancient capital of the Aztec empire. Excavated between late July 1980 and early January 1981 by Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), these remains have now been linked to a desperate ritual to honor Tlaloc, the rain god, during a severe drought that ravaged the Basin of Mexico. Leonardo Lopez Lujan, director of INAH's Templo Mayor Project, recently revisited this discovery. "At first, the Mexica state tried to mitigate its effects by opening the royal granaries to redistribute food among the neediest classes, while carrying out mass sacrifices of children in the Templo Mayor to calm the fury of the tlaloque [assistants of Tlaloc]," said Lujan. However, he added that extensive duration of the drought "made the state vulnerable, forcing it to allow the mass exodus of its people." Drought and sacrificial practices The new findings reveal the ceremonial context of the sacrifices, offering deeper insight into the region's religious practices during times of crisis. Many of these skeletons, unearthed in Offering 48, wore necklaces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of the 42 sacrifices, 22 were boys, six were girls, and half exhibited porotic hyperostosis, indicating malnutrition. A press statement by INHA noted that the first bodies were placed face-up with contracted limbs in an ashlar box measuring 170 x 111 x 54 cm. They rested on a layer of sea sand, adorned with chalchihuites necklaces and green stone beads in their mouths. Then additional bodies were put on top, sprinkled with blue pigment, and placed with marine elements, birds, copal, obsidian blades, and eleven tezontle sculptures depicting Tlalocs face. The oblation in the northwest sector of Templo Mayor corresponds to the IVa construction stage under Moctezuma Ilhuicamina (1440-1469), the the second Aztec emperor. This period witnessed a devastating drought from 1452 to 1454, with 1454 being the most severe year. Stable isotope analysis led by Dr Diana Moreiras Reynaga from the University of British Columbia traced the victims origins. Most came from Oaxaca, with one from the highlands of Chiapas and Guatemala, illustrating the wide geographic scope of this ritual. However, Lujan noted, the Mexicans also sacrificed their own children during extreme shortages, as recorded in 16th-century sources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moctezuma attempted to mitigate the crisis by redistributing royal granary supplies, but food shortages and plagues forced families to sell their children. Totonacs of the Gulf and Cohuixcas of Guerrero provided supplies in exchange for labor, helping residents of Tenochtitlan during the crisis. Pre-Hispanic hydraulic systems Eduardo Matos Moctezuma, an INAH emeritus researcher, investigated the advanced hydraulic systems developed in pre-Hispanic times. Along with Dr Teresa Rojas Rabiela from Mexico's Center for Research and Higher Studies in Social Anthropology and Dr Carlos E Cordova of the Oklahoma State University, Matos Moctezuma examined pre-Hispanic water management, viceregal-period modifications, and the eventual drying of the lakes. The press release by highlighted the role of waterworks in maintaining political and social stability. Rituals for rain were integral to the agricultural calendar, with nine of its 18 months involving ceremonies, some culminating in child sacrifices. These children, dressed as tlaloques, were central to ceremonies meant to invoke fertility. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) 2025 will mark the 30th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing. We remember and honor those 168 who lost their lives on April 19, 1995, when a bomb went off in front of the Murrah building in downtown Oklahoma City. 168 Days to remember those lost in the OKC bombing: Shelly D. Bland. Image courtesy Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum. We want to remember Shelly D. Bland, while honoring those who survived and thanking those changed forever. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. ST. LOUIS A 17-year-old was charged as a juvenile Friday in connection with another teenagers death outside of a St. Louis gas station earlier this month. The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department has not disclosed the identity of the 17-year-old, but says charges of first-degree murder, first degree-assault, armed criminal action, first-degree tampering and unlawful use of a weapon were applied at the juvenile court. The victim, identified by St. Louis police as 15-year-old Jamar Hamilton of St. Louis County, was fatally shot overnight on Nov. 12 in the 8800 block of North Broadway in St. Louis Baden neighborhood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hamilton was found dead around 1:40 a.m. outside of a gas station with gunshot wounds. Investigators say he was with a group of people who exchanged gunfire with occupants of another vehicle. The 17-year-old who was charged Friday had been arrested on Nov. 12 in connection with an unrelated incident, according to St. Louis police. Police have not disclosed if any other arrests or charges are pending in this investigation. Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact SLMPDs homicide division at 314-444-5371 or CrimeStoppers at 866-371-TIPS (8477). Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. CHICAGO An 18-year-old man was shot in the head and neck by armed robbers, then crashed into several vehicles after driving off late Saturday night in the Austin neighborhood on the citys West Side, according to police. CPD: Armed robbery suspects believed to be connected to at least 17 crimes Police say the victim was sitting in a parked car in the 100 block of North Waller Avenue just after 10 p.m. when two offenders demanded his property at gunpoint and began shooting. The victim sped off and struck several vehicles before coming to a stop at the end of the block. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was taken by the Chicago Fire Department to an area hospital in critical condition with gunshot wounds to the head and neck, police say. Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines Nobody is in custody, and Area Four detectives are investigating. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. DENVER (KDVR) Two people died and one person was seriously injured in a shooting early Sunday morning at Utah Park in Aurora, according to the Aurora Police Department. The park is located in the 1800 block of South Peoria Street. According to Aurora police, officers responded to a local hospital around 2:15 a.m. after a report of a walk-in gunshot wound. Download the FOX31 App: Breaking news alerts & Pinpoint Weather Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police talked to the victim, who sustained serious injuries. It was determined the shooting occurred at Utah Park around 1:55 a.m. A neighbor told FOX31s Kasia Kerridge they were woken at about that same time. At 1:55, I woke up, just like a barrage of automatic gunfire, at least 15-20 shots. It went on for a good five to 10 seconds, just nonstop, said neighbor Cam Price. It was insane. There had to be 15 different types, between police, firetrucks, EMS. It was just chaos. Officers responded to the park and located two additional victims. Both victims were pronounced dead. The ages and identities of the victims have not been confirmed, police said. There was a large police presence at Utah Park. The Aurora Police Department said the scene would remain active for several hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Small businesses in Weld, Boulder counties hit by string of break-ins Police said investigators believe this is an isolated incident among people who knew each other and that there is no danger to the public. Detectives ask anyone in the area to check their doorbell or other security cameras at around 1:55 a.m. Anyone with evidence is asked to contact the agencys non-emergency number at 303-627-3100 or the Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-7867. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. A man and a woman were hospitalized Sunday morning after a house exploded near Weddington, North Carolina. Emergency officials in Union County say they were called to the home around 9 a.m. after numerous reports of a large explosion. Deputies say a severe portion of the home had heavy damage when they arrived on scene. Officials say that two people were inside the home at the time of the explosion. First responders say that a man was flown to the Wake Forest Baptist Burn Center in critical condition and a woman was taken to a local hospital with injuries that are not considered to be life-threatening. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Channel 9s Glenn Counts spoke to a neighbor who lived next door to the property for almost 20 years. The blast came down through here, we dont have any power in the house, Ted Castano said. My son was standing here brushing his teeth, I think he had the door closed, its a miracle this didnt blow in because you can see the trip in here, so this is the only window that survived on this side. His son said he was shocked by the explosion. I had no idea, it was almost not even a ringing, it was so loud that my ears just went completely silent for a little bit there, and then started ringing, said Ryan Castano. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ALSO READ >> Union County familys home catches fire months after kids hit by truck Ryan said he initially thought it was their home that exploded. He made his way outside and saw his neighbors come out of the wreckage. All these boards were clumped all around here and he kind of just crawled out up through here. The fire department quickly came and grabbed him out, Ryan said. The victims were described as an elderly couple. Thankfully, theyre expected to recover. Its pretty tough cause we care about him, hes almost like family, hes lived next door. All the neighbors are close, weve always gotten along, Ted said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ryan showed Channel 9 where their neighbors garage door flew up about 30 feet into their tree. The family believes their property was lifted off the foundation, so at this point, its a big question whether they will be able to come back and live in the home. Officials say that this was an isolated incident and is now contained. The Union County Fire Marshals Office, the Union County Sheriffs Office, and the ATF are investigating to determine the cause of the explosion. RELATED STORY: Man flown to hospital with burns after explosion, fire at Burke County home NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) An investigation is underway after two men were injured in a Saturday afternoon shooting inside a South Nashville apartment, according to law enforcement. Metro Nashville dispatch said the incident was reported at approximately 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 16 from the 300 block of Plus Park Boulevard. A detective from the Metro Nashville Police Department told News 2 an altercation between a 43-year-old man and a 45-year-old man started in the parking lot, adding that it sounds like it was a disagreement about property that was picked up. The argument reportedly moved up to an apartment belonging to one of the men. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents share concerns following deadly stabbing by South Nashville bus stop According to the investigator, there was a fight inside the apartment, at which point shots were fired one way, shots were returned back, and one man was struck in the stomach while the other was hit in the leg. The individual who allegedly confronted the resident of the apartment where the shooting occurred went down a floor to someone elses apartment. The detective said the occupant of that second apartment who only brought the man inside until officers arrived is cooperating with law enforcement. Both men involved in the shooting were stable at Vanderbilt University Medical Center on Saturday evening, the investigator reported. Meanwhile, police were still working to get a search warrant for the apartment where the incident occurred. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mother charged after sons shooting death in Bellevue On Monday, Nov. 18, officials confirmed the man being treated for a leg wound will be arrested for aggravated assault and unlawful gun possession by a convicted felon after he is discharged from the hospital. No additional details have been released about the investigation into Saturday afternoons shooting. Download the News 2 app to stay updated on the go. Sign up for WKRN email alerts to have breaking news sent to your inbox. Find todays top stories on WKRN.com for Nashville, TN and all of Middle Tennessee. This is a developing story. WKRN News 2 will continue to update this article as new information becomes available. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) A new study suggests that some of the nations unhealthiest residents call the Volunteer State home, and data shows two Tennessee cities are where most are believed to reside. According to Forbes Advisor, the rate of chronic disease tends to be higher in some cities due to unhealthy lifestyle habits and lack of physical activity. However, analysts claim that income level, education, and even commuting patterns can also affect why some cities are considered healthier than others. Tennessee ranked among the unhealthiest states in America, according to Forbes Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To determine which cities have the healthiest and unhealthiest populations, Forbes Advisor compared the 46 most populated cities across eight key metrics. The study ranked the following metrics to compile the list: number of heart disease and opioid overdose deaths per 100,000 residents, percentage of adults with diabetes, high blood pressure, binge drinking, obesity, smokers and those who report physical inactivity. Both Memphis and Nashville were named on the list, ranking third and ninth respectively. According to Forbes Advisor, Memphis ranked so highly since it had some of the highest rates of diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Counties where the most opioids are dispensed in Tennessee In fact, Memphis ranked high in several factors, which led it being ranked the third city with the one of the least healthy populations. Data show Memphis stands out as the city with the: Second-highest percentage of adults with diabetes (15.9%) Second-highest percentage of adults with high blood pressure (41.1%) Second-highest percentage of adults who report having obesity (40.8%) Second-highest percentage of adults who report smoking (22.7%) Second-highest percentage of adults who report being physically inactive (32.9%) Sixth-highest number of heart disease deaths per 100,000 residents (314.7) Ninth-highest number of opioid overdose deaths per 100,000 residents (47.3) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Nashville ranked as the ninth state with one of the unhealthiest populations. Although Music City has a fewer percentage of adults with heart disease, they outrank Memphis when it comes to opioid overdoses. Deaths per 100,000 residents to heart disease and opioid overdoses in Nashville: Heart Disease: 222.50 Opioid Overdoses: 52.10 | Check out more lists and rankings from across Tennessee Data show Nashville also has more reported binge drinkers than Memphis, but less smokers and those who report having obesity: Binge drinking: 17.4% Adults with diabetes: 10.6% Smokers: 18.1% Adult who report having obesity: 37% Adults with high blood pressure: 30.5% Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this year, Tennessee was named among the unhealthiest states in the country due to having the highest rate of opioid and prescription pain reliever misuse in the country, according to the January report. According to the study, Detroit, Michigan tops the list with the least healthy populations, while San Jose, California has the healthiest residents. To see the entire study, click here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Northamptonshire Police in England believe that Pankaj Lamba killed his wife Harshita Brella earlier this month Northamptonshire Police/Facebook Harshita Brella Harshita Brella Authorities in England are looking for a man whom they believe fled the country after allegedly murdering his 24-year-old wife and leaving her body in the trunk of a car. In the "early hours" of Thursday, Nov. 14, Northamptonshire Police discovered the body of Harshita Brella in the trunk of a car in the Ilford area of London, the department said in a Facebook news release this weekend. The discovery came a day after Northamptonshire Police received a call about the woman's welfare. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities initially launched a missing person investigation after arriving at Brella's home in Corby and not hearing from her. After Brella's body was found, an autopsy conducted at the Leicester Royal Infirmary established that she had been "murdered," police said. Northamptonshire Police said they suspect Brella's husband Pankaj Lamba of killing her earlier in the month in Northamptonshire, before transporting her body to Ilford by car, according to an update on Sunday, Nov. 17. Police also believe that Lamba, whom they have shared a photo of on social media, has fled the country. Northamptonshire Police/Facebook Harshita Brella Harshita Brella Related: Suspects Ex-Lover Came Forward Nearly 20 Years Later in Fla. Mom of 5s Cold Case Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, more than 60 detectives are working on the case going house to house, using CCTV footage and conducting property searches in an effort to "piece together exactly what happened." "I urge anyone listening to or reading this statement, that if you saw anything suspicious in the past week or have any information, no matter how small, please contact us," read a police statement shared on Facebook. "We would always rather receive well-meaning information that turns out to be nothing as opposed to not receiving it all. Northamptonshire Police/Facebook Pankaj Lamba Pankaj Lamba Related: 5 Children Arrested in Connection with Brutal Murder of 80-Year-Old Dog Walker Per Northamptonshire Police, local neighborhood officers will continue to patrol the area in Corby in the coming days for reassurance, as "anyone with any concerns is welcome to approach one of these officers who will be happy to help." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want to express my heartfelt condolences to everyone who loved Harshita Brella," Detective Chief Inspector Johnny Campbell from the East Midlands Special Operations Major Crime Unit (EMSOU) said in a statement as police announced the suspect. She was a young woman in her early 20s with her whole life ahead of her, and it is absolutely tragic that her life has been cut short in this way." Detectives from EMSOU and Northamptonshire Police are working around the clock to establish the circumstances behind her death, including the exact location and timeframe in which it took place," the statement added. Officials from the Metropolitan Police are also assisting in the investigation. In a video shared on Facebook on Nov. 17, Northamptonshire Police Chief Inspector Paul Cash described the circumstances surrounding Brella's murder as "absolutely tragic." Those with information are encouraged to contact police via phone, through an online public portal at www.mipp.police.uk or by calling Crimestoppers. FORT RILEY (KSNT) A 16 year tradition continues at Fort Riley this holiday season. Its the annual Turkey Run Hosted by the Kansas American Legion. Families located on the post got the opportunity to receive a full thanksgiving dinner to cook for the holiday. Veterans and supporters of the Kansas American Legion collected and distributed the food items to the families. Did you know Washburn has a Cricket Team? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Being able to see our families coming in and just theres just a sense of joy that they have and their receiving the food and knowing that their gonna have a good Thanksgiving, Jerry Nunziatio, Garrison Commander at Fort Riley, said. The Turkey Run was able to support 250 families this Thanksgiving. For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. POMONA, Calif. (AP) Three people were hurt aboard a single-engine plane that crashed Sunday near a Southern California dragstrip where fans were gathered for the finals of a racing event, authorities said. At least two parked vehicles on the ground were struck when the Piper PA-32 crashed around 11:40 a.m. near the dragstrip in Pomona, about 30 miles (50 kilometers) east of downtown Los Angeles, the Federal Aviation Administration said. Nobody on the ground was hurt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The crash happened while the plane was apparently attempting to land at nearby Brackett Field Airport, according to a statement posted by the National Hot Rod Association, or NHRA. Four people were on the plane. Three of them were hospitalized, including two with critical injuries, LA County Fire Captain Sheila Kelliher-Berkoh told the Los Angeles Times. Photos and videos from the scene showed crews working in a parking area alongside the track, where parked vehicles appeared damaged. The raceway is hosting the NHRA finals that began Thursday. Races were paused Sunday as emergency crews responded, but the event later resumed. The FAA is investigating the crash. FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now) The Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) said it is investigating after a truck hit and killed a 3-year-old child in Chantilly on Saturday. According to the department, officers received a call about the child struck in the 4200 block of Airline Parkway, a residential neighborhood, at around 3:50 p.m. There, police found that a truck hit a 3-year-old child in the roadway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The child died there. Man dies after being hit by truck in Fredericksburg, police say Police told DC News Now that children in the neighborhood were out playing when the crash happened. Police also said the driver of the truck stayed at the scene. A friend of the family confirmed that the child who died was Hugo Nolasco. The investigation is ongoing. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Five people were hospitalized after violence erupted at a house party in the Inland Empire late Saturday, authorities say. According to the Riverside Police Department, officers were dispatched to the 11200 block of Town and Country Drive around 10:30 p.m. after police received a 911 call regarding a shooting with multiple victims. Upon arriving at the scene, a residential neighborhood directly adjacent to the 91 Freeway, five victims were located, four of whom were shot and one of whom was stabbed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victims were all transported to hospitals, with one in critical condition, Riverside police told KTLA. Police at the scene of a shooting and stabbing that occurred at a house party in Riverside on Nov. 16, 2024. (OnSceneTV) A sixth person believed to be the suspect also suffered a stab wound, law enforcement officials added. He was in police custody while receiving treatment. It appears this shooting may have stemmed from an altercation at a party, a spokesperson with the Riverside Police Department said. Our Robbery-Homicide Detectives have responded to the scene and are investigating. No further information including the identities of the victims and suspect was released. Alexis Lewis contributed to this report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) Its a winter wonderland at the Gary Rome Hyundai in Holyoke. Holiday craft fair at Gary Rome Hyundai The annual event leading up to the holiday season began earlier this month and runs through November 22nd. It is the real spirit of Christmas to give back, shared Kim Koher. Friday evening at the 4th Annual Trees of Hope was student night, inviting families and children to step into the holiday spirit with many raffles to choose from. We want to be here to help them you know bring awareness but also bring the money that they need so they can keep these families together, shared Gary Rome, President & CEO of Gary Rome Hyundai. Christmas trees decked out from head to toe throughout the dealership with some valued at $2,000 including tickets to sporting events like the Patriots and Red Sox. Proceeds support the mission of the Ronald McDonald House helping to provide family housing and resources while their sick child receives treatment. One long-time customer of Gary Rome Hyundai returned for a second year of giving, So this is a way to support the kids, shared Kim Koher. Kim, hoping to be one of the lucky winners of the trees this holiday season. Im just starting to look at them, they are always gorgeous and its hard to chose, shared Kim Koher. This year over $200,000 is expected to be raised to keep families together in Springfield. You can visit Gary Rome Hyundai during normal business hours to take part in the Trees of Hope raffle until November 22nd. If you would like to take part in the raffle online, visit here. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. A powerful culture that lasted from 1438 to 1533, the Incas controlled their vast empire, spanning present-day Peru and Chile, by leveraging military might and religious authority. They relied heavily on ceramic vessels to conduct ritualistic practices. These vessels were more than just functional objects; they were powerful symbols of Inca imperialism and ideology. Ceramics embodied the empires values, connecting everyday life with the divine and reinforcing Inca dominance through religious ceremonies. A key ritual, practiced around 500 years ago, was known as capacocha and involved the sacrifice of children on mountain peaks. The Incas believed that children, typically aged between six and 13, were divine messengers, carrying offerings and prayers to the gods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A recently released study by Dr Sylwia Siemianowska, from the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnology of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IAE PAN), delves into these rituals at length. Dr Siemianowska's research, documented in the bilingual Spanish-English book Lo que pertenece a las divinidades, examines and catalogues ceramic vessels found along with remains of children sacrificed on the Misti and Ampato volcanoes in Peru. Ceremonial value of Inca ceramics The range of ceramics documented include puccu plates, bowls, and the iconic Inca aryballosa spherical flask used to store chicha, a fermented maize drink used in several Inca rituals. "This is a kind of gift to the deity. This can be seen, for example, during the sun ceremony described in the historical sources, when Inca held two cups in their hands," noted Dr Siemianowska while speaking to a Polish news agency. She added that while one cup was meant for the holder, the other was for the sun deity. The ceramics are designed with geometric patterns and wavy lines painted on with natural mineral pigments upon firing. Although most of the vessels were found to be intact, some were deliberately broken, signifying the ceremonial act of sealing the sacred space. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Ceramics carried ideas, symbolized belonging to a specific social group, and marked norms and customs," said Dr Siemianowska. According to experts, ceramic vessels were commonly used as gifts by Incas to honor the dead, feed and water mummies of ancestors and deities, make ritual toasts, etc. They were also offered as gifts to huacas, places of spiritual value. Previous research led the way Dozen of sites across Peru, Chile, Argentina, and Ecuador where the capacocha ritual took place have been identified so far. Among these, the Ampato and Misti volcanoes in southern Peru are the most significant. Research conducted in 2020, led by Dagmara Socha from the University of Warsaw, unearthed graves containing eight or nine children on Misti. The remains were accompanied by 47 figurines of gold, silver, and copper, stone vessels, Spondylus shell artifacts, and 32 ceramic vessels. At Ampato, three graves were discovered carrying the remains of a six-year-old boy and two girls of six and 10. These graves contained 37 ceramic vessels. All the recovered artifacts and vessels are now part of the collection at the Museo Santuarios Andinos in Arequipa. Dr Siemianowska noted that these ceramic vessels likely contained food, either in liquid or solid form. FORT DODGE, Iowa The Fort Dodge Fire Rescue responded to an apartment fire that injured six and left 12 displaced on Sunday morning. Around 2:21 a.m. the Fort Dodge Fire Rescue was dispatched to 1107 Central Avenue for trapped occupants on the third floor of an apartment building fire. Fire crews arrived to find heavy fire coming from the windows and a female occupant trapped at a third-floor window. Fire crews first attempted to use ground ladders to rescue the occupant. Eventually they were able to use two separate ladders to reach the woman. Several other residents were able to exit the building on their own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crews used two hose lines to attack the fire and were able to maintain the fire to the original building. Crews conducted searches of the eight apartments and hallways; no other occupants were found. The fire spread to the attic and roof requiring extensive extinguishment. Photo courtesy of Fort Dodge Fire Rescue Photo courtesy of Fort Dodge Fire Rescue Photo courtesy of Fort Dodge Fire Rescue Photo courtesy of Fort Dodge Fire Rescue Four occupants were treated on scene and transferred to the Unity Point Fort Dodge Emergency Department. One of these occupants also suffered burns and was life-flighted to the University of Iowa Hospital with serious injuries. Two other residents self-transported to the Unity Point Fort Dodge Emergency Department for smoke inhalation. The apartments on the third floor sustained heavy fire damage while the first and second floor sustained smoke and water damage. 12 residents of the apartment are displaced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The building next to the fire, 1109 Central Avenue, had significant smoke enter through the building. Seven residents from the second and third floor were evacuated from the building. A 3rd alarm and mutual aid was requested from Webster City Fire Department for additional resources on the scene. The Fort Dodge Fire Rescue was assisted by Mid American Energy and the Fort Dodge Police. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY) The Robinson Grand Performing Arts Center hosted the seventh edition of the Born and Bred Concert Series Saturday night, featuring the bands The Moon My Twin, Kindred Valley, and the Alabaster Boxer. The show opened with music played by the Robinson Grand Performing Art Centers house band The 39 Fire. The goal for Born and Bred is to showcase West Virginia artists and their talents within the Mountain State by giving them a chance to play in the theater. Co-owner and Co-founder of Born & Bred Brendan Gallagher said discussed the importance of the concert. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are showing people how much talent, how much passion, and that redefine the idea of local music because a lot of people hear local music and they think, oh, its not going to be that good, these local bands that were showcasing tonight, every single one of them could be huge, they all have that sound, they all have that ability, they all have the potential to be one of the biggest bands out there, Gallagher said. So, we really want people to come and here them and realize, hey, what I think local is, isnt what it is.' Ye Olde Salem WVs Farmers Market hosts annual community dinner Gallagher said the Born and Bred series is growing and that they are excited anytime they are able to have a performance at the theater. He added that the Born & Bred series features more than 1,100 artists making original music that they say could be the next big artist or band within the state. Guitarist with The 39 Fire Seth Maynard spoke to 12 News about spreading the word about the event. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So, when you are your own performer like I do occasionally myself, its very hard to get the word out to people because all the time Ill hear people say, I saw your post, when was that, didnt know you were going to be there, so with resources that Brendan has put together with Born & Bred is letting people know, hey, there are recordings, here is where theyre shows are, its just fantastic. Every Monday at 4 p.m. on WBOYs 304 Today program you can see featured artists from around the Mountain State featured on Music Mondays with host Lauren Winans showcasing their talents. If you are a band or local artist and want to be featured on the program, email your contact information to News@wboy.com. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com. Los Angeles County Dist. Atty. George Gascons election defeat was one more reminder that despite what those of us in progressive states say we want (criminal justice reform), our feelings about crime and safety rule our decisions at the ballot box. I was sorry that Gascon lost to Nathan Hochman, a former federal prosecutor who ran as a Republican for California attorney general in 2022, and has promised to undo most of Gascons reforms. But I wasnt surprised. I had people calling me two months after Gascon won asking, Why is crime going up? He hadnt even gotten into office yet, civil rights attorney Connie Rice told me Thursday. Thats irrational, and they blamed him for COVID policies that the Superior Court set that emptied out low-level offenders [from jail]. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Had Gascon moved more slowly, explained himself more clearly and allayed the fears of his critics, I think he might have had a successful tenure. But he moved too fast, announcing leniency measures and an end to cash bail his first day in office, broke too much furniture and alienated the very people he needed to woo his own prosecutors. Read more: Editorial: California doesn't have to choose between public safety and criminal justice reform He was trying to get rid of the extremes of mass incarceration but didnt tell the stories of those extremes, said Rice. He didnt come in and say, 'Anyone who needs to be charged for a violent third strike will be charged, but what I am going to do is end the railroading of young people into pleading guilty and sending them to prison.' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a sense, Gascon made the same mistake that President-elect Donald Trump is making right now: assuming that voters gave him an unassailable mandate to blow up the status quo, and that they would stay with him when the going got tough. Los Angeles County voters chose Gascon months after George Floyd was murdered by a Minneapolis police officer and Black Lives Matter protests swept the country. Emotions about systemic racism and disproportionate punishment were running high, building on the reformist tide that swept Chesa Boudin into office as San Franciscos district attorney in 2019 and then swept Gascon into office in L.A. County. Boudin barely lasted two years before he was recalled. Gascon survived two recall attempts, but in the end, both fell victim to voters perceptions about crime, not the reality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gascon, like Chesa and others, were deeply motivated by justice and fixing wrongs, said filmmaker Robert Greenwald, who produced and directed a 2023 documentary about Boudin, Beyond Bars. They were not dedicated to, nor proficient in, the messaging about what they were doing and how they were doing it and why it would make people safer. Driven by a moral compass, rather than political calculation, they moved as quickly as possible, not as carefully as possible. Read more: Abcarian: How could voters choose both Trump and AOC? Pay attention, Democrats The antagonism toward Gascon that I heard from many of my neighbors was the same sort of anger I heard them express toward former Los Angeles City Councilmember Mike Bonin, whom they could not forgive for treating our unhoused neighbors as his constituents, too. The homeless encampments that proliferated all over the city and especially in Venice during the pandemic, and Bonins principled stand that housing was the answer to homelessness, were too much for voters who just wanted an end to the chaos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His changes were not that radical, Rice said of Gascon. I thought he could have made some allies and taken a more deliberate pace, and explained to the public. Those smash-and-grab robberies, when the targets are rich people, the panic goes through the roof. The outcome of the Los Angeles County district attorneys race is a good example of how California voters swing between extremes when it comes to issues of criminal justice. In 1994, California voters enacted the misbegotten law colloquially known as Three Strikes and Youre Out, which mandated 25-years-to-life sentences for anyone convicted of a felony with two prior serious or violent convictions. That resulted, Rice told me, in life sentences for a man with two prior convictions for check kiting fraud who stole a box of Morton's steaks, for a man who stole six Disney tapes so he could visit his daughter at a Motel 6 and have something to watch with her, and for a man who stole a bicycle lock. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Next L.A. D.A. to roll back key Gascon policies and revisit the Menendez brothers case Perhaps the most famous example of the law backfiring was the preposterous 25-years-to-life sentence given to a man who stole a slice of pepperoni pizza from some kids near the Redondo Beach Pier. Eighteen years later, in 2012, voters passed Proposition 36, which softened the law, requiring that all three strikes be serious or violent. In 2014, voters passed Proposition 47, a sentencing reform measure aimed at reducing the number of people in Californias dangerously overcrowded prisons. It reduced six nonviolent crimes including drug possession and theft of amounts under $950 from felonies to misdemeanors. Although state data show no significant increase in reports of shoplifting or theft overall, police are less likely to make arrests. This is a policing problem, not a prosecution problem, though voters apparently did not see it that way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The backlash against Proposition 47 triumphed this month when voters passed a new Proposition 36, which will increase penalties for several drug and theft crimes. Critics of the measure claim and I believe them that it will drive up state prison costs, cut funding for behavioral health treatment and could increase homelessness. So here we are. Two steps forward, one step back, pushed and pulled by our conflicting emotions about crime and safety and fairness. We want to redress the terrible policies that lead to mass incarceration, but we are appalled the local drugstore is locking up our safety razors and deodorants. And shamefully, we can't make up our minds which is worse. Bluesky: @rabcarian.blsky.social If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) Bruce Reed, an Abilene resident and landowner, appeared before the city Planning & Zoning board during its meeting on November 5. Reed requested a Conditional Use Permit to keep a freight container on his land. He expressed frustration, saying the container had been there for over a decade with seemingly no issue. That thing has been there for at least 14 years, and no one complained about it until somebody who drives around taking photos of containers turns it in anonymously and causes me pain. No sorrow, but some real financial burden on my company. Reed told the board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The land he owns is zoned as General Retail(GR), which, according to the Abilene Land Development Code, adopted in 2000, can host a container of this type, but only with the approval of a conditional use permit. The board unanimously voted in favor of Reeds permit request, which will now go before the Abilene City Council for final approval. But if this ordinance has been in the books since the millennium, why is it only now that the issue has been brought to light? KTAB/KRBC spoke with Clarissa Ivey, a planner for Abilene, to find out. We finally have additional help. We have a designated code officer from code enforcement who is going to be our eyes out there, said Ivey. Ivey says that in the past, several P&Z employees shared the job of compliance inspection around town, dedicating a few hours to driving around and looking for violations. While those employees can still search for violations, the department decided to delegate one individual as a dedicated Code Enforcement Officer in June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The employee is still a code officer within the Code Compliance departmentAny code officer can enforce all of the codes, however, in June of this year an officer was assigned to be our go-to-guy and do mostly Land Development Code (Zoning) enforcement. While mostly handling zoning enforcement, this officer still enforces all other codes. Ivey told KTAB/KRBC. At the P&Z meeting on November 5, one board member commented, I think weve had three shipping container cases; this is the third probably in the last six months. However, adding the new officer about five months ago does not necessarily mean there have been more new violations; it just means more time has been dedicated to finding violations and taking action. It might seem like theres a lot of new violations, but its just because we finally have additional help that we needed very much. Said Ivey. Another P&Z board member commented on freight containers, noting that multiple citizens stated they bought the containers and were unaware of the ordinance. To clarify the law, refer to the city code subsection, which outlines the requirements and allowances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under Part III, Chapter 2, Article 4, Section 2.4.4.1 of Abilene City Code, you can find a chart that states Freight containers are only permitted on land zoned as Agricultural Open Space District(AO), Heavy Commercial District(HC), Light Industrial District(LI), and Heavy Industrial District(HI). A conditional use permit is required for any land zoned as General Commercial District(GC) or General Retail District(GR), as is seen in Mr. Reeds case. Citizens can still submit Code violations they see by visiting city hall, going through the report section of the city website, or calling the Planning & Zoning department at 325-676-6241. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com. The signals for snow in the region that we discussed last week have come to fruition, but any accumulating snow will likely be reserved to North Dakota and perhaps northwestern Minnesota. The rest of Minnesota is set for a soak of a Monday and Tuesday. "Today into early Monday will be nice, but rain arrives from the south Monday afternoon and lasts into Tuesday. Rain could be heavier at times, especially Monday night," says the National Weather Service in the Twin Cities. "Colder air arrives Tuesday night bringing a chance of light snow through Wednesday. Accumulating snow possible in western MN but little to no snowfall is expected elsewhere." Pivotal Weather The graphic below shows the most likely time period for rain Monday afternoon through Tuesday morning. NWS Twin Cities How much rain will fall? The models are indicating between 0.75 and 1.25 inches. Projected precipitation totals this week. WeatherBell Rain will begin to change over to a rain/snow or all snow mix by Wednesday. There could be a cosmetic dusting of snow over much of Minnesota, but the accumulating snow looks to be reserved for North Dakota. Perhaps an inch or two could accumulate in northwest Minnesota. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WeatherBell Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Greatest chance (30%) for winter storm impacts resides west of the Red River Valley, especially Tuesday night and Wednesday morning," says the National Weather Service in Grand Forks. "This may affect the Wednesday morning and evening commute." NWS Grand Forks (NewsNation) Dont believe everything you learn from AI. An AI chatbot joined a mushroom foraging group and recommended ways to cook a deadly mushroom, 404 Media reports. FungiFriend was added to a popular mushroom discussion Facebook group and encouraged members to saute in butter a potentially dangerous mushroom. The chatbot also said it could be added to soups or stews, and pickling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Effects of psychedelic mushrooms can last for weeks: Study A member of the group asked FungiFriend, How do you cook Sarcosphaera coronaria? which contains hyperaccumulate arsenic and has caused a documented death, 404 reports. 404 Media previously reported on artificial intelligence foraging books on Amazon that incorrectly suggest poisonous mushrooms are safe to eat. The Facebook group, which includes some 13,000 members, is a place where mushroom foragers can ask each other to identify mushrooms they found in the wild. A moderator for the group said the chatbot was automatically added by Meta and that we are most certainly removing it, 404 Media reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. President Joe Biden met with Chinese President Xi Jinping face-to-face Saturday afternoon on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) conference in Lima, Peru -- their last meeting of Bidens presidency. They began their meeting with a handshake. During that moment, a reporter in the room asked how the leaders would discuss North Korea to which Biden responded, "peacefully." Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan were on either side of the president as the meeting took place. PHOTO: President Joe Biden meets with China's President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in Lima, Peru, Nov. 16, 2024. (Leah Millis/Reuters) Xi spoke first, starting off by saying that it was a "great pleasure" to see Biden again. He added that the U.S.-Chinese relationship has "gone through ups-and-downs," but indicated that over the course of the last four years it has stabilized. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Xi added that it's time to look at the past but to "treat each other as partner and friend," rather than adversary. Xi added that stability in their relationship benefits the whole world and said that they should "make the wise choice" for the international community. Xi: China is 'ready to work' with Trump The Chinese leader didn't shy away from discussing the changing political landscape and spoke about the upcoming transition, with President-elect Donald Trump preparing to take the helm. MORE: Biden and Xi talk fentanyl, Taiwan, military communication and more in 4-hour meeting "China is ready to work with the new U.S. administration, to maintain communication, expand the cooperation and manage differences, so as to drive forward a steady transition of the China-U.S relationship for the benefit of the two peoples," Xi added. PHOTO: President Joe Biden meets with Chinese President Xi Jinping (2nd R) on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Lima, Peru, Nov. 16, 2024. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images) Biden recounted the two decades long relationship the leaders have had, a relationship that has spanned Biden's time as vice president and as president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We haven't always agreed, but our conversation has always been candid and always been frank," Biden said. "We have never kidded one another. We've been level with one another. I think that's vital." "These conversations prevent miscalculations, and they ensure the competition between our two countries will not veer into conflict, the competition, not conflict," he added. MORE: As Trump whiplash looms, APEC closes in Peru with Chinas President Xi front and center Biden also hit on the points that senior administration officials previewed as major topics of conversation: cooperation on AI and joint counter-narcotics efforts. Biden noted that overdose deaths in the U.S. are declining for the first time in a decade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A reporter in the room asked Biden whether he has any concerns about the relationship under Trump, but he did not respond. The same reporter asked Xi whether he had any concerns about tariffs that Trump has called for, but Xi did not respond. AI and nuclear weapons -- and Biden's 'deep concern' A readout of the call discusses some of the topics that Biden and Xi discussed during the bilateral meeting. The leaders discussed two areas where they found cooperation: Artificial intelligence safety measures and countering narcotics. They made a notable agreement on AI safety: an affirmation for the need to "maintain human control" over the use of nuclear weapons. "The two leaders affirmed the need to maintain human control over the decision to use nuclear weapons," the readout from the White House said. "The two leaders also stressed the need to consider carefully the potential risks and develop AI technology in the military field in a prudent and responsible manner." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But there were a couple of areas where the two leaders seemed to diverge in opinion one of the major ones dealing with North Korea's recent deployment of troops to fight with Russia against Ukraine. "President Biden condemned the deployment of thousands of DPRK troops to Russia, a dangerous expansion of Russias unlawful war against Ukraine with serious consequences for both European and Indo-Pacific peace and security. He expressed deep concern over the PRCs continued support for Russias defense industrial base," the readout said. Cross-strait issues also came up, with Biden calling "for an end to destabilizing PRC military activity around Taiwan." Biden also talked about the need to "resolve the cases of American citizens who are unjustly detained or subject to exit bans in China," according to the readout. AI, North Korea, Trump: What Biden and Xi discussed in their final face-to-face meeting originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Ukrainian air defence units responded to Russian-launched aerial assets twice on the night of 16-17 November. Source: Serhii Popko, Head of Kyiv City Military Administration, on Telegram Quote: "Air defence units are responding in Kyiv. Stay in shelters until the all-clear is given!" Updated: At 06:34, Popko once again reported that air defence units were responding in Kyiv. He urged people to stay in shelters until the all-clear is sounded. Background: The Russians are bombarding Ukraine with attack drones. Tu-95 strategic bombers are reported to have been scrambled in Russia. Support UP or become our patron! Ukrainian air defence units were responding to a Russian-launched aerial asset on the morning of 17 November. Source: Maksym Kozytskyi, Head of Lviv Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram Quote: "A missile in the airspace of Lviv Oblast. Air defences are responding. Observe information silence." Update: Later, Kozytskyi reported that garages and a car had caught fire in Lviv Oblasts Sheptytskyi (Chervonohrad) District due to the fall of Russian missile wreckage. Background: The Russians are bombarding Ukraine with attack drones. Tu-95 strategic bombers are reported to have been scrambled in Russia. The Ukrainian military reported the launch of Kalibr cruise missiles by Russian forces from the Black Sea. Support UP or become our patron! (WHTM) Pennsylvanias U.S. Senate race is headed to a recount even as some counties continue to count provision and overseas ballots. Counties are also dealing with lawsuits over some of those ballots. Pennsylvanias Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt oversees the states elections and sat down with Dennis Owens to discuss a recount that could have a major impact on how much of President-elect Donald Trumps agenda gets passed in Washington D.C. Every week, This Week in Pennsylvania gives a comprehensive look at the weeks biggest news events in Pennsylvania, provided by the abc27 News team, along with the latest updates on local stories. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now This Week in Pennsylvania Check your local listings for weekly air times. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. An Allegheny County man faces felony charges for leading Somerset County police officers on a chase through Summit Township Thursday at speeds that sometimes topped 100 miles per hour. Hildred Devon Berkley, of Braddock, also faces charges for meth possession after investigators executed a search warrant on his getaway vehicle, Somerset County District Attorney Molly Metzgar said. Metzgar said officers from Summit Township police, Somerset County Sheriffs Office, Pennsylvania State Police and other Somerset departments pursued Berkley's vehicle during a 15-minute chase after the man did not pull over for a Summit Township traffic stop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police deployed metal spike strips designed to puncture tires and slow down a vehicle on a Somerset County road. Afterward, a Pennsylvania State Police cruiser forced the getaway car sideways in a tactic called a pit maneuver, Metzgar said. The chase came to an end along Route 31 near Berlin, she said. Berkley was taken into custody without further incident, Metzgar said. He was placed in Somerset County Jail on $25,000 monetary bond, online court records show. Berkley faces charges of fleeing and eluding, methamphetamine possession, driving with a suspended license and related summary offenses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I am thankful that none of the brave members of our law enforcement community were injured in this swift response," Metzgar said. Online court records show Berkley previously was sentenced to a 27-month to five-year sentence for a Somerset County drug conviction in 2014. Almost 100 people have been killed in new Israeli strikes in the north of the Gaza Strip, the Hamas-controlled press office said on Sunday. An Israeli bomb hit a five-storey residential block in the city of Beit Lahia, killing 72 people, it said. The building housed families displaced from their homes in other parts of the Gaza Strip. Many women and children were reported among the victims. A further 24 people were killed and several injured in Israeli airstrikes on the al-Bureij and Nuseirat refugee camps in the centre of the Gaza Strip, the press office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The official Palestinian news agency WAFA reported that rescue workers were looking for bodies and survivors in the rubble. The Hamas-controlled health authority in the Gaza Strip reported that 47 Palestinians had died in fighting in the area over the past 24 hours, raising the number killed since the start of the war in October last year to 43,846. The figures do not distinguish between combatants and civilians. Why Dems lost There is a reason the Democrats lost the election to an overwhelming force of Trump supporters. This country was built on the backs of free men and women who shed their blood fighting against governments that tried to steal their rights to live free and thrive, which is written in the Declaration of Independence. For brevity, Ive excerpted the second paragraph, which reads, 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, That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Under the Democrats going back to President Barack Obama, our country has been divided by people who have all but killed democracy as we know it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Buildings and property were destroyed by anarchists. We watched crime in our streets as the Defund the Police Movement was implemented. As a combat wounded Marine Vietnam veteran on a 100% disability, I believe the people made the right decision to take our country back with the election of Donald J. Trump. G. Topliff, Aiken Choosing evil over good OMG, what have we just done? Now, for the first time in the history of our country, we have elected a man found liable for sexual abuse as our president. He is also a felon and believed by many to be a traitor to this country for showing our nations top secret documents to guests at his Florida estate. He perpetually lies, has been reported to have cheated in every one of his three marriages,and is a professional fraud having declared bankruptcy multiple times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What has happened to us that we have elected such a degenerate person to the highest office in our land? How did we get to a place where we have such a hatred for our own democracy that we have elected a man who promises to be a dictator. What happened in this election is a bold display of the mental illness that is prevalent in the minds of many of the male gender. The illness is called misogyny. It is designed for the cruelty and oppression of women and stems from the insecurity of men. Jesus weeps for those who have voted for Trump for they have chosen evil over good. M. Allgood, Columbia While we werent looking While everyone was talking about the election results, an announcement was made that was a double whammy to one of our major industriesfarming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first blow occurred several weeks ago when John Deere announced that they were moving part of their operations to Mexico. And because of the impending new policy that we are going to return illegal immigrants back to Mexico, this means there will be a bigger pool of skilled labor there, which will probably encourage other U.S. manufacturers to move elsewhere. The second major blow to our farmers is that China announced that they were going to cancel grain contracts with American farmers. They can now make up that grain from Brazil and Argentina. This is not a temporary policy. With agriculture being our major export to China, this means that this will be a hardship on our farmers and all Americans. If we dont find another market for this grain, we may have to pay the farmers not to grow crops, store the crops or store and burn the crops. Instead of adding to revenue, now it will take revenue away from other programs. These two major blows will eventually affect every American. J. Muldrow, Columbia PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) A 14-foot Christmas tree adorned with star ornaments stands tall in the lobby of the Peoria Riverfront Museum in memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Local Gold Star families hung ornaments on the tree during the Fallen Heroes Tree of Honor ceremony hosted by Americas Gold Star Families. Each ornament has a picture of their fallen hero, name, rank, branch, home state, date of birth, and date of death Frances Maddoxs son, Anthony, was killed in 2013 while serving in Afghanistan. Since then, she has been involved with Gold Star Families, including chairing the ceremony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said the Gold Star Families motto always remember, never forget rings true for her. These individuals that I have served have made a great sacrifice, and we need to continue to speak their name and remember the sacrifice that they made. So freedom is not free, said Maddox. The tree will stay up in the lobby of the Peoria Riverfront Museum until Jan. 1. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) Thanksgiving is a time for festive meals and family gatherings, but its also the most dangerous day of the year for cooking fires. With kitchens heating up across South Carolina, the American Red Cross urges families to take simple yet critical steps to prevent their holiday celebrations from becoming disasters. Home fires are a real threat to communities across South Carolina over the Thanksgiving holiday, said Yolanda Gainwell, Interim Chief Executive Officer for the Red Cross of South Carolina. In particular, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires, year after year, Thanksgiving is the peak day for these tragedies. We at the Red Cross are urging families to follow cooking safety steps to help prevent your holiday celebrations from going up in smoke. To help keep families safe, the Red Cross has shared the following safety tips: Stay present in the kitchen. Never leave cooking food unattended. If you need to step away, turn off the stove. Eliminate hazards near the stove . Keep flammable items such as dishtowels, paper, bags, and curtains at a safe distance. Avoid loose clothing. Wear snug-fitting clothes to prevent sleeves from catching fire. Be prepared for emergencies . Keep a pan lid or cookie sheet nearby to smother flames in the event of a fire. Cover the pan and leave it until it cools completely. Reduce risks of accidents. Turn pot handles inward to prevent spills or burns from accidental bumps. Set reminders. Use a timer to keep track of cooking times and check that all appliances are off before leaving the kitchen, going to bed, or leaving the house. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Red Cross also emphasizes the importance of monthly smoke alarm tests and practicing home fire escape plans. Preparing ahead can save lives. As families gather to celebrate, the Red Cross encourages everyone to prioritize safety, ensuring that the holiday season remains a joyful and fire-free occasion. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. Mississippians who are dead set on enacting private school vouchers could do like their counterparts in Kentucky and attempt to change the state constitution to allow public funds to be spent on private schools. The courts have ruled in Kentucky that the state constitution prevents private schools from receiving public funds, commonly known as vouchers. In response to that court ruling, an issue was placed on the ballot to change the Kentucky Constitution and allow private schools to receive public funds. But voters threw a monkey wrench into the voucher supporters plans to bypass the courts. The amendment was overwhelmingly defeated this month, with 65% of Kentuckians voting against the proposal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kentucky, generally speaking, is at least as conservative or more conservative than Mississippi. In unofficial returns, 65% of Kentuckians voted for Republican Donald Trump on Nov. 5 compared to 62% of Mississippians. In Mississippi, like Kentucky, there has been a hue and cry to enact a widespread voucher program. Mississippi House Speaker Jason White, R-West, has voiced support for vouchers, though he has conceded he does not believe there are the votes to get such a proposal through the House Republican caucus that claims a two-thirds supermajority. And, like in Kentucky, there is the question of whether a voucher proposal could withstand legal muster under a plain reading of the Mississippi Constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Mississippi, like Kentucky, the state constitution appears to explicitly prohibit the spending of public funds on private schools. The Mississippi Constitution states that public funds should not be spent on a school that is not conducted as a free school. The Mississippi Supreme Court has never rendered a specific ruling on the issue. The Legislature did provide $10 million in federal COVID-19 relief funds to private schools. That expenditure was challenged and appealed to the Mississippi Supreme Court. But in a ruling earlier this year, the states high court did not directly address the issue of public funds being spent on private schools. It instead ruled that the group challenging the expenditure did not have standing to file the lawsuit. In addition, a majority of the court ruled that the case was not directly applicable to the Mississippi Constitutions language since the money directed to private schools was not state funds but one-time federal funds earmarked for COVID-19 relief efforts. To clear up the issue in Mississippi, those supporting vouchers could do like their counterparts did in Kentucky and try to change the constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since Mississippis ballot initiative process was struck down in an unrelated Supreme Court ruling, the only way to change the state constitution is to pass a proposal by a two-thirds majority of the Mississippi House and Senate and then by a majority of the those voting in a November general election. Those touting public funds for private schools point to a poll commissioned by House Speaker White that shows 72% support for policies that enable parents to take a more active role in deciding the best path for their childrens education. But what does that actually mean? Many have critiqued the phrasing of the question, wondering why the pollster did not ask specifically about spending public funds on private schools. Regardless, Mississippi voucher supporters have made no attempt to change the constitution. Instead, they argue that for some vague reason the language in the Mississippi Constitution should be ignored. Nationwide efforts to put vouchers before the voters have not been too successful. In addition to voters in Kentucky rejecting vouchers, so did voters in ruby-red Nebraska and true-blue Colorado in this years election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With those election setbacks, voucher supporters in Mississippi might believe their best bet is to get the courts to ignore the plain reading of the state constitution instead of getting voters to change that language themselves. This analysis was produced by Mississippi Today, a nonprofit news organization that covers state government, public policy, politics and culture. Bobby Harrison is Mississippi Todays senior Capitol reporter. Two weeks after her firm incorrectly found Vice President Kamala Harris surging in increasingly red Iowa, pollster J. Ann Selzer said Sunday she is leaving election polling and ending her longstanding relationship with the Des Moines Register, which dates back to 1997. Over a year ago I advised the Register I would not renew when my 2024 contract expired with the latest election poll as I transition to other ventures and opportunities, Selzer wrote in an op-ed for the newspaper. The final Des Moines Register poll, released the Saturday before the election, found Harris (47 percent) and Donald Trump (44 percent) neck and neck, a shocking result in a state not considered competitive. According to unofficial results, Trump won Iowa by 13 points, 56 percent to 43 percent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Would I have liked to make this announcement after a final poll aligned with Election Day results? Of course, Selzer wrote. Its ironic that its just the opposite. I am proud of the work Ive done for the Register, for the Detroit Free Press, for the Indianapolis Star, for Bloomberg News and for other public and private organizations interested in elections. They were great clients and were happy with my work. The Iowa poll has taken on a near-mythical status over the past two decades, mostly driven by the states role in the presidential nominating process. It was the only survey to nail the order of Democratic candidates in the 2004 caucuses. Selzers final poll before the 2008 caucuses accurately predicted that a surge of first-time caucus-goers would propel Barack Obama to a decisive victory. Selzer saw former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorums surge in the final days before the 2012 GOP caucuses when few others did. "The first time he ever broke double digits was our first night of interviewing in the final poll, Selzer recalled to POLITICO earlier this year. And then the next night, it was more. And the next night, it was more. And the next night, it was more. And even though the average ended up being, I think, 15 percent, the trajectory was what the story in the Register got written about, which is that Rick Santorum could surprise. And he ended up winning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Selzer has had success in general elections, too. In 2014, the final Register poll in the Iowa Senate race showed Republican Joni Ernst with a 7-point lead, contrary to other polls that showed a much closer race with Democrat Bruce Braley. Braleys campaign decried the poll, calling it an outlier. But Ernst won by 9 points. And four years ago when both Trump and now-President Joe Biden were competing in Iowa she found Trump and Ernst significantly ahead in their races, despite other polling showing a virtual tie. Both Republicans won comfortably. So far, a review of the final 2024 poll hasnt revealed an obvious culprit for missing Trumps runaway victory in the state, the paper said Sunday. The Register is evaluating the best ways to continue surveys that will provide accurate information and insight about issues that matter to Iowans, the papers editor, Carol Hunter, wrote in a column published Sunday. The Iowa Poll has been an important legacy indicator and we recognize the need to evolve and find new ways to accurately take the pulse of Iowans on state and national issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the first time since the late 90s, Selzer wont be involved even as the state is poised to play a key role in the next presidential race. While the Democratic nominating calendar remains in flux, the Iowa caucuses are likely to be the first contest on the Republican side, with Trump constitutionally ineligible to seek a third term. In a career of seeing trends that others missed, Selzer says shes always trusted her data, even when its put her on an island compared to other pollsters. My integrity means a lot to me, she wrote Sunday. To those who have questioned it, there are likely no words to dissuade. For those who know me best, I appreciate the supportive notes and calls reminding me that what drew me to them as friends, colleagues and clients was commitment to truth and accuracy both in my professional and my personal relationships." Selzers unwavering commitment to following the data has created some nervous moments in her career, especially as election polling has become more difficult over the past decade. When I go to bed the night before caucus, I think, Theres nothing I regret. There isnt something I could have done that I should have done, Selzer told POLITICO in 2015. So we may not get it right the next time, but Ive said that the last several elections because it is getting harder. But what I can do is pledge to my clients I will take my best shot. And now, Words and Their Stories, from VOA Learning English. On this program we explore words and expressions in the English language. We give examples and notes on usage. Many valuable materials are buried deep inside the ground, such as gold, oil and diamonds. But finding these riches and bringing them to the surface takes much time and effort. In the past, the term pay dirt was used to describe something found in the dirt that could bring you money. Gold is a common example of pay dirt. In fact, word experts say the term dates back to when North Americas famous gold rush was happening. By the mid-1800s, thousands of people had come to parts of the United States and Canada to search for gold. The work was hard and dangerous. The weather and terrain presented many difficulties. Here is an example of how to use pay dirt from Cambridges online dictionary: Gold rushes continued into the 19th century as lucky prospectors struck pay dirt . However, pay dirt does not have to be a valuable material found in the ground. These days, it can also describe something that produces money or profit. Or it can even be the money or profit itself. Here are some additional examples: Email addresses are the new pay dirt in social media marketing. You can reach a possible buyer in their inbox. The musical group hit pay dirt with their song after it went viral on TikTok. And that gives us the expression to hit pay dirt. To hit pay dirt means to do or find something that results in money or success. And like digging gold, it usually doesnt come easily. It requires work. When you hit pay dirt, you work hard to make money or profit from an idea or activity. We often use the verb hit when using the term pay dirt . But sometimes we also say strike pay dirt. This is similar to the expression to strike it rich . Many people have dreams of striking it rich one day. In her book Gold Rush, author and illustrator Flora Delargy describes the process of hitting pay dirt . She writes that in order to get large amounts of pay dirt out of the ground, miners would have to break through layers of permafrost to reach the gravel bedrock beneath. This description demonstrates the difficulties faced by miners seeking to strike pay dirt. And thats the end of this Words and Their Stories. Until next time, Im Anna Matteo. Anna Matteo wrote this lesson for VOA Learning English. _________________________________________________ Words in This Story terrain -n. the surface features of an area of land prospector -n. someone who explores for mineral deposits miner -n. one who digs or forms a pit or tunnel from which minerals (as coal, gold, or diamonds) are taken permafrost -n. a permanently frozen layer at variable depth below the surface in frigid regions of a planet (such as earth) gravel -n. loose rounded fragments of rock bedrock -n. the solid rock lying under surface materials (as soil) that are not in layers We want to hear from you. Do you have a similar expressions in your language? In the Comments section, you can also practice using any of the expressions from the story. Our comment policy is here. Or send us an email at LearningEnglish@voanews.com. MANAUS, Brazil (AP) President Joe Biden has authorized Ukraine to use U.S.-supplied missiles to strike deeper inside Russia, easing limitations on the longer range weapons as Russia deploys thousands of North Korean troops to reinforce its war, according to a U.S. official and three other people familiar with the matter. The decision allowing Kyiv to use the Army Tactical Missile System, or ATACMs, for attacks farther inside Russia comes as President Vladimir Putin positions North Korean troops along Ukraine's northern border to try to reclaim hundreds of miles of territory seized by Ukrainian forces. Biden's move also follows the presidential election victory of Donald Trump, who has said he would bring about a swift end to the war and raised uncertainty about whether his administration would continue the United States' vital military support for Ukraine. The official and the others knowledgeable about the matter were not authorized to discuss the U.S. decision publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's reaction Sunday was notably restrained. Strikes are not made with words," he said during his nightly video address. Such things are not announced. The missiles will speak for themselves. Zelenskyy and many of his Western supporters have been pressing Biden for months to allow Ukraine to strike military targets deeper inside Russia with Western-supplied missiles, saying the U.S. ban had made it impossible for Ukraine to try to stop Russian attacks on its cities and electrical grids. Zelenskyy's statement came shortly after he posted a message of condolence on Telegram following a Russian attack on a nine-story building that killed at least eight people in the northern city of Sumy, 40 kilometers (24 miles) from the border with Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia also launched a massive drone and missile attack, described by officials as the largest in recent months, targeting energy infrastructure and killing civilians. The attack came as fears are mounting about Moscows intentions to devastate Ukraines power generation capacity before the winter. And this is the answer to everyone who tried to achieve something with Putin through talks, phone calls, hugs and appeasement, Zelenskyy said. The comment appeared to be a dig at German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who spoke Friday with Putin in the first such call with a sitting head of a major Western power in nearly two years. Some supporters have argued that the limitation and other U.S. constraints could cost Ukraine the war. The debate has become a source of disagreement among Ukraines NATO allies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden had remained opposed, determined to hold the line against any escalation that he felt could draw the U.S. and other NATO members into direct conflict with nuclear-armed Russia. Putin has warned that Moscow could provide long-range weapons to others to strike Western targets if NATO allies allow Ukraine to use their arms to attack Russian territory. News of Biden's decision followed meetings over the last two days with the leaders of South Korea, Japan and China. The addition of North Korean troops was central to the talks, which took place on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Peru. Biden did not mention the decision during a speech at a stop in the Amazon rainforest in Brazil on his way to the Group of 20 summit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked about the decision, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters that the U.N. position is to avoid a permanent deterioration of the war in Ukraine. We want peace, we want fair peace, Guterres said Sunday before the summit in Rio de Janeiro. He didn't elaborate. The longer-range missiles are likely to be used in response to North Koreas decision to support Putins invasion of Ukraine, according to one of the people familiar with the development. The overall supply of ATACMS missiles is short, so U.S. officials in the past have questioned whether they could give Ukraine enough to make a difference. Some supporters of Ukraine say that even a few strikes deeper inside Russia would force its military to change deployments and expend more of its resources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Korea has provided thousands of troops to Russia to help Moscow try to claw back land in the Kursk border region that Ukraine seized this year. The introduction of North Korean troops to the conflict comes as Moscow has seen a favorable shift in momentum. Trump has signaled that he could push Ukraine to agree to give up some land seized by Russia to find an end to the conflict. As many as 12,000 North Korean troops have been sent to Russia, according to U.S., South Korean and Ukrainian assessments. U.S. and South Korean intelligence officials say North Korea also has provided Russia with significant amounts of munitions to replenish its dwindling weapons stockpiles. Trump, who takes office in January, spoke for months as a candidate about wanting Russias war in Ukraine to be over, but he mostly ducked questions about whether he wanted U.S. ally Ukraine to win. He also repeatedly slammed the Biden administration for giving Kyiv tens of billions of dollars in aid. His victory has Ukraines international backers worrying that any rushed settlement would mostly benefit Putin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement America is Ukraines most valuable ally in the war, providing more than $56.2 billion in security assistance since Russian forces invaded in February 2022. Worried about Russias response, however, the Biden administration repeatedly has delayed providing some specific advanced weapons sought by Ukraine, agreeing only under pressure from Kyiv, its supporters and in consultation with allies. That includes initially refusing Zelenskyys pleas for advanced tanks, Patriot air defense systems and F-16 fighter jets, among other systems. The White House agreed in May to allow Ukraine to use U.S.-provided weaponry for limited strikes just across the border with Russia. ___ Long, Miller, Knickmeyer and Lee reported from Washington. Associated Press writer Will Weissert in West Palm Beach, Florida, and Hanna Arhirova in Kyiv contributed to this report. A fire caused a partial building collapse and damaged 16 apartments Friday night in Fort Worth, officials with the fire department said. Crews responded to the La Jolla Terrace Apartments in the 8900 block of Randol Mill Road at around 9:30 p.m. and found heavy smoke and fire coming from an upstairs unit of a two-story apartment, a department statement read. In order to supply their trucks with water, crews had to run hoses to fire hydrants across the street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Traffic passing down the street ran over the fire hoses, causing them to burst and creating difficulties with supplying enough water to fight the fire, officials said. At the same time, the fire intensified, part of the building collapsed, and the incident commander called a second alarm, the release stated. It took 50 firefighters a little over an hour to get the fire under control after shifting their tactics to fight the fire from the outside. Volunteers from the Red Cross were on the scene to assist displaced residents, fire department officials said. One person reported an injury, but was not found at the scene, officials said. APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) The Appleton Fire Department is honoring the passing of 87-year-old, retired firefighter David Hemauer who died on November 11, 2024. Little hero beats cancer and rings in victory with Marinette police by his side According to a Facebook post from the Appleton Fire Department, Hemeaur served 26 years of his life in the service and safety of the community with the Appleton Fire Department. He joined the crew on April 12, 1965, and had various roles such as Firefighter, Driver/Engineer, Lieutenant, and Captain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fire department in northern Wisconsin mourns unexpected loss of Assistant Chief, memorial fund created The post says that David retired from the fire department on January 17, 1991, and that his impact and legacy endured long after. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. FORT SMITH, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) A pursuit in Fort Smith on Saturday evening ended in one death and one arrest, according to Arkansas State Police. ASP said around 6 p.m., Kevin Swafford, 23, of Paris, was driving a 2003 Pontiac Grand Am at a high rate of speed and ran a red light at the intersection of Zero Street and 31st Street. As Swafford ran the light, a collision involving three other vehicles occurred. Swafford was reportedly fleeing from an ASP trooper who tried to stop him because his vehicle didnt have a license plate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the pursuit, Swafford disregarded multiple traffic lights and traveled at a high rate of speed in heavy traffic, ASP said in the news release. Swafford and his passenger, Calvin Eubanks, 25, of Fort Smith, were ejected from the vehicle. Eubanks was pronounced dead at the scene. Legal battles over LGBTQ books could cost Crawford County $500,000 Swafford was taken to a nearby hospital for minor injuries and was later brought to the Sebastian County Detention Center. Two of the drivers in the other vehicles were not injured. The third was taken to a nearby hospital for minor injuries. Sebastian County Prosecutor Daniel Shue announced on November 21 that Swafford is charged with manslaughter, fleeing, and two counts of criminal mischief. Hes also charged as a habitual offender. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Fort Smith Police Department is investigating the crash and ASP is doing an internal review of the pursuit. Eubanks body will be taken to the Arkansas State Crime Lab to determine a cause of death. Swaffords arraignment has been set for November 27. He is being held with no bond set as of November 21. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24. SEARCY, Ark. November 10 will always be the day Shannon Turner remembers losing a loved one. Her ex-husband and father to their two kids, Perry Wallingsford, was killed in a crash on Broadway Bridge in North Little Rock while driving a moped. He just was always happy and smiling and he didnt meet a stranger, Turner said. North Little Rock police investigating fatal vehicle crash on Broadway Bridge Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, Turner is struggling to lay him to rest. She says a proper burial is what Wallingsford deserved, but the price is in the thousands. Everybody has tried to donate as much as they can but were still falling short, Turner said. Turner said although shes struggling with funeral arrangements, she still feels like theyre her duty. I just felt like it was my job not only as the mother of his children, but as his friend too, Turner said. Vehicle crash causes traffic backup on eastbound Interstate 30 in Little Rock As she works through it all, she has a message to the man she lost too soon. If I could tell him anything I would just tell him that I love him so much and I was so proud of him. And that I will make sure his boys know that he loved them, Turner said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Turner said you can donate directly to Cole Funeral Home in Kensett. She also has a Gofundme for the arrangements. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK. DHAKA (Reuters) - About 1,500 people died in protests that brought down Bangladeshi prime minister Sheikh Hasina this year, and as many as 3,500 may have been forcibly abducted during her 15-year rule, interim leader Muhammad Yunus said on Sunday. The estimate by the economist and Nobel peace laureate, who is due to organise elections, is higher than the previous official count of about 1,000 deaths in the student-led demonstrations, which drew a ferocious crackdown. The protests, which began in July as a student-led movement against public sector job quotas, escalated into some of the deadliest unrest since Bangladeshi independence in 1971, forcing Hasina to flee to India. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Every day, new names are being added to the list of martyrs, Yunus said in an address to the nation marking 100 days of the interim government, pledging to prosecute those responsible for the violence. Yunus' government has vowed to ensure justice for victims of what he referred to as the "autocratic regimes wrath". Yunus said a commission investigating forced disappearances had found information on 1,600 cases as of October, but that the total could potentially exceed 3,500. And he reiterated his governments commitment to demanding Hasina's extradition from India. We will prosecute all the crimes committed over the past 15 years, he said, adding that the government had begun efforts to bring those responsible for the disappearances and killings, and the July-August violence, to international courts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said a road map for the next general election in the country of 170 million people would be unveiled once electoral reforms were completed. Political parties including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) led by former prime minister Khaleda Zia have been pressing the interim government for a clear plan to hold a national election as soon as possible. In September, army chief General Waker-uz-Zaman, whose refusal to support Sheikh Hasina during the student protests led her to flee, told Reuters that democracy should be restored within a year to a year-and-a-half, but urged patience. (Reporting by Ruma Paul; Editing by Kevin Liffey) Arrests were made Saturday following an anti-abortion march clashing with abortion activist counter-protesters. The protest march, conducted by the Mens March, was to meet at Bostons Planned Parenthood building at 1055 Commonwealth Ave at 11 a.m. on Saturday. The march then began to make their way to the Parkman Bandstand. A group of pro-choice members gathered in clown wear to counter-protest the mens march. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boston Police Department has announced that a total of 9 people were arrested for disorderly conduct. The identities of those is yet to be confirmed. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW When President-elect Donald Trump tapped Matt Gaetz for attorney general, he elevated a MAGA firebrand with a penchant for stoking controversy and a history of getting out of trouble to lead a Justice Department that has investigated both men. Gaetz, a career politician with limited experience practicing law, resigned from his seat in Congress just hours after Trump announced earlier this week his intention to nominate him as the top federal law enforcement officer in the United States. The Florida Republican has a tense history with the Justice Department, clashing with officials during contentious oversight hearings where he accused the department of being weaponized against Trump and fellow conservatives and decrying the yearslong federal sex-crimes investigation of him that began during the Trump administration. (Prosecutors ultimately declined to charge him.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gaetz would be able to take on the Justice Department from the inside, molding the institution and its law enforcement components, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the Drug Enforcement Administration, to fit his vision and Trumps. Democrats on Capitol Hill and some legal scholars have flatly said Gaetz is unqualified for the job, and even people close to Gaetz told CNN they are concerned he may not be a good fit at the department and may have trouble winning confirmation by the Senate if theres a vote on his nomination. But many Republicans and Gaetz allies have touted his aggressive style as an essential attribute for an attorney general. Sources close to Trump said he sees Gaetz as an effective messenger of his agenda and believes his appointees to other top positions at the Justice Department can handle day-to-day duties. John Morgan, a Florida personal injury attorney and Democratic donor who is nevertheless close to Gaetz, warned doubters not to dismiss the Panhandle Republican as the right-wing caricature he often embodies. Morgan called Gaetz uber smart and a pit bull. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Everyone who has underestimated him has done so at their own peril, Morgan said. I dont think that everyone needs to be getting scared. Matt knows what its like to be unfairly targeted and I dont think hell do that. Reaction inside the Beltway Inside the Justice Department, some employees who had braced for the possibility of other names that had surfaced early in the transition were appalled when Trump made the Gaetz announcement. He would mark a sharp departure from Attorney General Merrick Garland, who was chosen by President Joe Biden for his low-key style and promise to try to restore decades-old norms to the department after a chaotic first Trump term. One career official described hearing audible cries of oh my God echoing down the hallway inside DOJs headquarters. Even among Trump transition officials who had spent weeks preparing potential nominees for Trump to review were taken aback, in part because it meant all the work they had done was cast aside for a choice that came from Trumps gut, a person close to the transition said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some Justice officials believe the Gaetz pick raises the likelihood there will be more departures, either voluntarily or as part of efforts to push out employees who arent seen as loyal to the incoming Trump administration. A staffing firm that moves lawyers out of government into private-sector jobs said they have been inundated with calls since Trumps announcement Wednesday afternoon. A former official who worked at the Justice Department during Trumps first term told CNN they are concerned about Gaetzs nomination and praying that those tapped to run each department inside the main headquarters can keep things on course. The president-elect filled some of those spots Thursday evening, appointing a series of his own personal lawyers to run key sections of the Justice Department. Trump said he intends to nominate Todd Blanche, who played a central role in his defense teams in the Manhattan hush money case and two federal criminal cases, to be the second in command at the Justice Department as the deputy attorney general. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump also announced his selection of Emil Bove, another member of his criminal defense team, to be principal associate attorney general. Florida law and politics Gaetz, a lifelong Floridian, grew up as the son of a powerful state senator and living in the house used to film the movie The Truman Show. He graduated from Florida State University, and then from William & Mary Law School. He worked for AnchorsGordon, a firm with a handful of lawyers in the Florida Panhandle that he joined after graduating law school. His courtroom experience is limited. He has never appeared as an attorney in a federal court case, according to the national court records database. He is listed as the attorney in seven cases in state court. Partners at AnchorsGordon didnt return multiple inquiries this week about Gaetzs history in private practice. Gaetz last reported earning a paycheck from the firm in 2016. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He has maintained an active law license with the Florida Bar apart from letting it lapse for failure to pay fees for 20 days in 2021, according to a spokesperson for the organization. While he doesnt need a license to be attorney general, he would be the first in decades to come into the role without experience as a government attorney or a judge. Gaetz was later influential in Trumps 2018 nomination of one of his former law firms partners, Lawrence Larry Keefe, as US attorney for the Northern District of Florida. Keefe ultimately became Floridas public safety czar under Gov. Ron DeSantis and played a critical role in orchestrating the flights that carried migrants from Texas to Marthas Vineyard. In Florida, where Gaetz first made his mark as a brash state lawmaker in 2010, his rise has left many in the states tightly knit political circles bewildered. Gaetz often tagged Baby Gaetz by political insiders in the state, for his boyish looks as well as his political lineage has been recognized as much for his provocations as he has been for his hardline conservative stance. I am stunned, one longtime Florida Republican operative told CNN after learning about the Gaetz appointment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Gaetz left the Tallahassee statehouse, a former Republican state lawmaker alleged on X that he created a game at the Florida state house where he and his male colleagues earned points for sleeping with interns, staff and married legislators. Gaetz denied the allegation. The Florida Bar once said Gaetz was unprofessional, reckless, insensitive, and demonstrated poor judgment for menacing tweets he posted about Trumps former fixer, Michael Cohen, though the lawyer association ultimately declined to punish the behavior. The episode drew public scorn from some prominent Florida Republicans, including Sen. Rick Scott, who called Gaetzs behavior disgusting and embarrassing. Gaetz goes to Washington Elected to Congress the same year Trump won the White House, Gaetz first arrived in the US House of Representative in 2017, and quickly became better known for his trademark incendiary political moves than legislating. The congressman became a regular in conservative media and pulled stunts that often made him an obstacle for Republican Party leadership and unpopular in the House Republican conference. But Trump called Gaetz one his absolute warriors for regularly coming to his defense on cable television. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2018, Gaetz was criticized after he invited a conservative troll with a history of Holocaust denial to the State of the Union. And during the Houses first impeachment inquiry into Trump, Gaetz led a band of Republicans to storm the House Intelligence secure committee spaces where the impeachment interviews were being held. And in 2020, Gaetz wore a gas mask on the House floor to vote on a coronavirus funding package. Gaetz, who said at the time that the move was quite serious, ultimately voted in support of the bill. His own personal history has, at times, become part of the debate. During a congressional hearing where Gaetz railed against Hunter Bidens cocaine use, Democratic Rep. Hank Johnson alluded to Gaetzs arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence in 2008. The DUI charges were later dismissed. Gaetz has said that he doesnt think the public was hanging on a traffic incident I had a decade ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gaetz also led the effort to oust former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and was even part of a physical dust-up on the House floor at the end of McCarthys tenure. And while his antics turned off many of his own colleagues, Gaetz won over Trump and became a staunch ally. He echoed Trumps lies about the 2020 election being stolen and even defended him in the hours after the deadly January 6, 2021, insurrection at the Capitol. When House GOP Conference Chair Liz Cheney of Wyoming voted to impeach Trump in January, Gaetz didnt just criticize her he traveled to Wyoming to hold a rally denouncing her. Since Trump left office in 2020, Gaetz has alleged the Justice Department is weaponized against conservatives. From his perch on the powerful House Judiciary Committee, he accused the FBI of going far beyond what the law allows in surveillance, called for the FBI to be abolished, and lambasted prosecutions of Trump and January 6 rioters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, while some of his colleagues in Congress expressed skepticism of his pick as attorney general, they said they are prepared for a detailed confirmation process. When asked about his nomination, South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham, a senior member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, told CNN: I dont know yet. Ill have to think about that one. Under federal investigation Gaetz has for years faced accusations that he may have violated federal law by paying for sex, including with a woman who was younger than 18 at the time. Gaetz denies any wrongdoing. The investigation into Gaetz began in late 2020 under then-Attorney General Bill Barr, but ramped up significantly after Gaetzs close friend, Joel Greenberg, pleaded guilty to six federal crimes and agreed to cooperate with prosecutors against the congressman. That same year, Gaetz allegedly sought from Trump a preemptive presidential pardon relating to the sex-trafficking probe, an aide testified to the House Select Committee investigating January 6. He denies ever seeking a pardon. Senior officials in Garlands Justice Department ultimately decided not to charge Gaetz, and the files related to the FBI investigation were deemed too sensitive to release, even to congressional investigators who were conducting their own ethics probe into Gaetz. The House Ethics Committee, which at the time was controlled by Democrats, originally opened an investigation into Gaetz in 2021, publicly announcing that it was examining a range of allegations including that Gaetz violated sex trafficking laws, shared inappropriate images or videos on the House floor, converted campaign funds to personal use, and accepted a bribe, among other claims. As attorney general, Gaetz would be in control of the FBI investigative files that detail the evidence the bureau uncovered. And now that he has resigned as a congressman, the House Ethics Committee probe into Gaetz has ended and its long-awaited report may never be made public. CNNs Kristen Holmes contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Nov. 16The Las Vegas New Mexico Community Foundation is getting $285,000 from a fund created when the state settled an unfair practices lawsuit against a city hospital. The foundation will oversee the funds, which will be allocated as a grant to address critical health care needs in San Miguel County, the state Department of Justice said in a news release. The funds are part of a $400,000 settlement between then-Attorney General Hector Balderas and Quorum Health, former owner of Alta Vista Regional Hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Balderas sued Alta Vista in December 2022, accusing the hospital of misleading patients with deceptive advertising about medical services and safety while pursuing "unconscionable" billing tactics. The lawsuit, filed in the Fourth Judicial District Court, alleged violation of the state's Unfair Practices Act. Quorum Health agreed to pay $400,000 for restitution and other funds without admitting liability or wrongdoing. The hospital passed a follow-up inspection by the state Department of Health in February 2023, according to the New Mexico Health Care Authority before changing owners in November 2023, when it was acquired by DAVA Health Inc. of Nashville. Applicants for the funds to be dispersed by the Las Vegas Community Foundation must be nonprofits that will use the money for community health care needs, including behavioral health care. "We are pleased with the result of this settlement and to be presenting these funds to the Las Vegas New Mexico Community Foundation," Attorney General Raul Torrez said in a statement. "These resources will be used to improve healthcare across San Miguel County and we look forward to seeing the benefit these funds can bring to the community." Organizations interested in applying can reach out to the community foundation by phone at 505-600-2868 or by email at admin@lvnmcf.org. AUBURN, Ala. (WRBL) A video posted by John Braswell, a resident closely monitoring the bald eagle nest in Auburn, revealed a devastating sight Saturday morning: the tree cradling the nest had been cut down, scattering its contents. For years, the nest was home to Pam and Jim, a pair of bald eagles beloved by the community. Initial Report: Bald Eagle nest in Auburn will be destroyed for new subdivision As neighbors gathered near the site off N College Street across from AU Fisheries many were brought to tears as Pam and Jim were seen flying in tandem over the area where their nest once stood, appearing to search for their missing home. Its just so sad, one neighbor said. They keep circling the spotits like theyre looking for it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The destruction of the nest has sparked outrage in the community, with Mayor Ron Anders and the entire Auburn City Council expressing anger and frustration over the actions of Hughston Homes. The City of Auburn has directed its legal team to pursue an investigation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to determine if the developer violated federal regulations in removing the nest. City of Auburn Statement On Saturday, the City of Auburn issued a statement condemning the removal of the nest, which occurred just days before a scheduled meeting with the developer to discuss alternatives for preserving the eagles nesting area. Like many of you, the Auburn City Council and City staff were gravely disappointed to learn that the tree containing the bald eagles nest at the Heritage Ridge development has now been cut down by the developer and landowner, Edgar Hughston Builder, Inc., the statement read. Mayor Pro Tem Beth Witten, who represents Ward 3 where the development is located, shared her devastation in a social media post. She accused Hughston Homes representative Tyler Findley of intentionally misleading her during a phone call on Friday afternoon. I specifically asked if the eagles nest would be untouched until we could hold our Zoom call Monday morning, Witten wrote. He ensured me of such. Then I learn today that he was present while the nest was taken down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Witten described the ordeal as gut-wrenching and apologized to residents for the outcome. She voiced support for the City Managers directive to have the city attorneys request a full investigation by the USFWS, adding, I was not successful in my efforts, but this was due to the actions of integrity-less individuals who operate Hughston Homes. WRBL reached out to Hughston Homes for comment after we discovered Saturday the nest had been destroyed. So far we have not heard back. The video Braswell recorded shows only one tree was taken down, contradicting earlier claims that preserving the site would have significantly impacted wetlands on the property. In a statement issued earlier this week, Hughston Homes defended its actions, citing regulations that require a 330-foot buffer around active nests. The developer claimed no eggs or hatchlings were in the nest and described it as an alternate site. The company also announced a financial contribution to eagle conservation efforts, though the amount remains undisclosed. Community Outrage and Calls for Action The USFWS prohibits nest removal if active eagles, eggs, or chicks are present. However, enforcement of federal laws relies heavily on permit holders to self-report activity. Critics argue this system is flawed and fails to ensure unbiased monitoring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents and conservationists have expressed their frustration, demanding stricter enforcement of protections for bald eagles, a federally protected species. How can you trust developers to monitor eagles they want gone? one commenter questioned. For now, the Auburn community mourns the loss of its iconic eagles nest, while city leaders pledge to seek accountability. Meanwhile, Pam and Jims poignant presence, circling the area where their nest once stood, continues to stir heartbreak and resolve among residents committed to protecting their feathered neighbors. Previous Coverage Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL. SYDNEY (Reuters) -Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his relationship with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has had a "very good beginning", elaborating on a phone call between the pair after the Republican's U.S. election win. Albanese this week said he told Trump on the call that the United States has a trade surplus with Australia and it was in Washington's interest to "trade fairly" with its ally. Under the first Trump presidency, Australia won an exemption from U.S. tariffs for its aluminium and steel exports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In remarks broadcast on Sky News on Sunday, Albanese described the call as a "very good beginning to our relationship". It was a "positive phone call that we had. We spoke for 10 minutes, it was one of the first phone calls that he made," the leader of Australia's centre-left Labor government said, according to a transcript. Albanese's call with Trump also covered security ties including the AUKUS deal, which will see Australia buy U.S. nuclear submarines next decade and develop a new class of nuclear powered submarines with the U.S. and Britain. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said this month that the government was confident of its alliance with the United States, its biggest security partner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One potential issue for the government is the relationship between the incoming administration and Australia's ambassador in Washington, former Labor Party prime minister Kevin Rudd, who previously made disparaging comments about Trump in his capacity as the head of a U.S.-based think tank. Albanese, asked if Rudd would stay in the role, said he was doing "a terrific job" and would remain. "He is Australias appointment and it says something about the importance of the United States that we have appointed a former prime minister," Albanese told the Australian Broadcasting Corp., according to a transcript on Sunday. (Reporting by Sam McKeith in SydneyEditing by Nick Zieminski) (NewsNation) For those not from the land Down Under, it seems a story all too true. However, there is a valiant reason behind the ask from The Australian Reptile Park in Sydney, New South Wales. They are urging Sydneysiders to help catch funnel-web spiders and their egg sacs to extract lifesaving antivenom. Pregnant German Shepherd mix rescued from mud in St. Louis The reptile park made its annual November announcement, asking for the deadly spiders to be donated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Australian Reptile Park is the only place in Australia that milks funnel web spider venom to make into antivenom, Jake Meney, reptile and spider keeper said in the release. Before the antivenom was developed 33 years ago, there were 13 recorded deaths in NSW by funnel-webs, but there have been zero fatalities since the development of the antivenom in 1981, he added. While the northern hemisphere is enduring and bracing for even colder weather, Australia is hotting up. Summer is funnel web season, so now is the time people will be seeing funnel webs more and more Meney added. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. Austrian airspace was not monitored by the military over the weekend as its air force pilots had to take time off to compensate for overtime, a military spokesman told the Austria Press Agency on Sunday. The spokesman said the country's Eurofighter aircraft were unable to take off because of the lack of pilots. Defence Minister Klaudia Tanner has asked the general staff to come up with a solution going forward. According to the military, pay is part of the problem, as many pilots have left the service for better paid positions with the Austro Control air navigation services provider that controls the country's civilian airspace. The military is reported to be considering awarding bonuses to its pilots. It did not specify when exactly there would be further suspensions of Eurofighter flights due to personnel shortages. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has hailed Robert Habeck as "super pragmatic" shortly before his nomination as the lead chancellor candidate for the Greens for the upcoming elections. Germany is currently preparing for early elections, expected in February, following the collapse of the government coalition last week. Baerbock stated that, as economy minister, Habeck had maintained the course during times of crisis and freed Germany from its dependency on Russia as an energy supplier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Baerbock made these remarks on Sunday at the Green Party's conference in Wiesbaden, Germany. "I want exactly that: you as Chancellor," Baerbock said, addressing Habeck. "No one can steer the ship in a storm like Robert Habeck and at the same time set the sails properly when the wind is favourable." She pledged her support to him for the election campaign. Habeck, who also serves as vice chancellor in Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government, confirmed his plans to run as the Green Party's candidate for the top job in a video published on social media last week. Robert Habeck (L), Germany's Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection and the Greens' lead candidate for the 2025 federal elections, speaks with Annalena Baerbock, Germany's Foreign Minister, at the federal delegates' conference of Alliance 90/The Greens. Michael Kappeler/dpa BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) The Bakersfield Police Department is asking the community to help locate a missing teenager in southwest Bakersfield. Brody Williams, 14, was last seen near the 4200 block of Crescent Rock Lane on Nov. 15, around 10 p.m. Police say Williams is considered at-risk due to no prior history of running away. Williams is about 6 feet, 4 inches and weighs 290 pounds. He has brown hair and brown eyes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is unknown what Williams was wearing at the time of his disappearance. Anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to contact the Bakersfield Police Department at 661-327-7111. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17. DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP) Bangladeshs interim leader and Nobel Peace laureate Muhammad Yunus said Sunday that his administration will seek the extradition of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from India, where has been in exile since fleeing a mass uprising in August. In a televised address to the nation on his first 100 days in office, Yunus said that the interim government will try those responsible including Hasina for hundreds of deaths during the student-led uprising that ended her 15-year rule. Yunus took the helm on Aug. 8, three days after Hasina fled the country. He said that not only the deaths in the uprising but all other violations of human rights, including alleged enforced disappearances while Hasina was in power, would be investigated. Bangladesh has sought help from the global police organization Interpol in issuing a red notice for the arrest of Hasina and her associates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will seek the return of the fallen autocrat Sheikh Hasina from India, Yunus said. I have already discussed the issue with chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court Karim Khan. While Hasina and her close associates are facing numerous criminal charges at home, the Yunus-led government is also pushing for the ICC to take up the case. Seeking Hasina's extradition could also pose a challenge for India, which has treated her as a trusted friend. Yunus said his government's most important task was to hold a new election to hand over power to an elected government, but he did not spell out any timeframe. He said his administration would first bring about reforms in various sectors including in the electoral system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He promised that once the electoral reforms are completed, a roadmap for the new election would be unveiled. Yunus has been talking to political parties including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party headed by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, Hasina's main rival, which has sought an election in two to three months. The party believes it will form the next government as Hasina's Awami League party and its allies face a political debacle following her ouster. Yunus said the Election Commission will be reconstituted soon. But as we move forward, we need to complete a lot of work. The train will reach its final station depending on how quickly we can lay down the railway tracks, and this will happen through consensus among the political parties," he said. Yunus also downplayed as exaggerated" reports of attacks on minorities, especially Hindus, many of whom complained that hard-line Islamists are becoming increasingly influential since Hasinas ouster. Nov. 16CORBIN Patients from the southeastern Kentucky region participated in a special event hosted by Baptist Health Corbin offering lung cancer screening exams on Saturday, November 9, at their new diagnostic center off the Cumberland Gap Parkway in east Corbin. The event was part of the 100 Days of Service marking the Baptist Health system's centennial celebration. Baptist Health Corbin was one of hundreds of imaging centers across the country that opened their doors on Saturday, to take part in the 3rd annual Lung Cancer Screening Awareness Day, which occurs on the second Saturday in November. All Baptist Health hospitals offer lung CT screening. The annual screening test consists of a CT scan of the chest (with a low dose of radiation), which is a painless, non-invasive exam that takes only minutes to complete. To be screened, patients must meet specific criteria based on age, smoking history, smoking status, and how much they smoke or have smoked. When patients meet the criteria, they are considered to be at a higher risk of developing lung cancer over time. In addition to the criteria, patients who complete the screening should be without symptoms of lung cancer (cough, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, fatigue, etc.) and they should agree to complete any follow up care that is suggested from the screening. "It was so gratifying to see the results of removing barriers to getting lung cancer screening today for these patients in our region. We purposefully tried to set up people to come in this past Saturday, especially those that work full time on weekdays, which makes it harder for them to make and keep medical appointments. Opening our doors on the weekend to perform these screenings will hopefully encourage and empower these patients to continue to be proactive in their lung health," said Brandie Stamper, RT, Patient Screening Navigator, Baptist Health Corbin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The purpose of the test is to complete the scan on individuals who are at higher risk and without symptoms to catch lung cancer in its earliest stages. When lung cancer is caught early, it results in better outcomes, including a higher chance of being cured from the disease. According to the American Lung Association statistics, Kentucky's lung cancer rate is the highest in the nation. And lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer related death among men and women in the United States. There are often no symptoms in the early and most curable stages of the disease. With early detection, coupled with prompt treatment, the chance of cure is greatly increased. For those who are interested or have questions on getting screened, they should reach out to their primary care provider. An order is required for the screening and each patient should have a conversation with their doctor or nurse practitioner, where the risks and benefits of the screening can be discussed, prior to scheduling their screening. Once the order is placed, and sent to Baptist Health Corbin, the scheduling department will then reach out to the patient to assist them in being scheduled for the exam at their convenience. The results and any recommended follow up care will be communicated to the patient by their ordering provider. Centennial celebration The original Kentucky Baptist Hospital in Louisville opened its doors in November 1924 following years of rallying community support and fundraising. Baptist Health has since expanded to 10 hospitals and more than 2,700 licensed beds, reaching nearly 75 percent of Kentucky residents and a wide swath of southern Indiana. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2024, Baptist Health celebrates its 100th anniversary, and is marking each month with a health-related "gift" to its communities. In October, residents of Somerset received their annual shot to fend off the flu at an Oct. 7 event organized by Baptist Health Corbin at Rocky Hollow Recreation Center as part of its 100 Days of Service centennial celebration. For further questions regarding low dose CT scans and lung cancer screening, feel free to contact Brandie Stamper, Patient Screening Navigator at Baptist Health Corbin at 606-526-4776 or brandie.stamper@bhsi.com. Courtesy Baptist Health Corbin Nov. 17Republican Nick Begich III declared victory Saturday in the race for Alaska's lone U.S. House seat over incumbent Rep. Mary Peltola. In the latest count of ballots posted Saturday, he maintained his lead over Peltola by more than two percentage points, with around 9,000 ballots left to be counted. The winner will likely be determined by a ranked choice tabulation. The Alaska Division of Elections released the results from 17,000 ballots late Friday and an additional 7,000 ballots on Saturday, which shrank the gap between Begich and Peltola, a Democrat. But Begich remained in the lead by 2.6 percentage points, or more than 8,300 votes. Meanwhile, results on a ballot measure that sought to repeal Alaska's open primaries and ranked choice voting system continued to tighten. With more than 328,000 ballots counted, 50.1% of voters were in favor of the repeal, while 49.9% of voters wanted to keep the current voting system. Supporters and opponents of the ballot measure are separated by just 895 votes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As additional absentee ballot counts have been announced, the gap between the camps has shrunk, signaling that the ballot measure whether it succeeds or fails will do so only by a razor-thin margin. The Division of Elections is set to count the remaining 9,000 ballots by Wednesday. In Alaska's U.S. House race, Begich had 48.7% of votes counted as of Saturday evening, while Peltola had 46.1%. If the leader in the race received less than 50% of votes, the final result will be determined by a ranked choice tabulation. Alaska Independence Party candidate John Wayne Howe garnered more than 3.9% of the vote. Democrat Eric Hafner had 1% of the vote. In a tabulation, which is scheduled to take place Wednesday, Howe and Hafner will be eliminated and their supporters' second-choice preferences will be taken into account. The process is also referred to as an instant runoff. chart visualization Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The path forward begins with a unified understanding of what Alaska can do for the rest of our nation. Together, we will deliver results for Alaska, creating long-term jobs, protecting our way of life, and playing our part to put America back on track," Begich said in a social media post Saturday morning. "Alaska's resources are not only a blessing for the people of our state they are vital to the strength and independence of our entire nation." Peltola has not commented on results since Election Day. Peltola's campaign spokesperson Anton McParland said Saturday that the campaign planned to release a statement on Tuesday. The ballots counted Friday include more than 1,100 early votes cast before Election Day, around 9,000 absentee votes that were delivered by mail, and nearly 7,000 questioned ballots, which are often cast when a voter's registration is not up-to-date or by voters who cast ballots in polling locations outside their designated precinct. On Saturday, election workers counted an additional nearly 6,000 absentee voters, and almost 1,000 questioned ballots. Alaska law allows the Division of Elections to count absentee ballots from in-state voters as long as they arrived by Friday. Election results were posted Friday after 6:30 p.m. Beecher blamed the late hour on power outages in Juneau and Nome, where division offices are located. Additional results were posted Saturday shortly before 5 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President-elect Donald Trump is easily winning the state with 54.8% of votes counted so far. Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris has just over 41.1% of the vote. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who was tapped by Trump to serve as secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, had 1.65% of the vote in Alaska. chart visualization chart visualization Members of the Alaska House have already announced plans to form a new majority coalition that will bring together a group of Democrats, independents and moderate Republicans to control the chamber, in a flip from the current mostly-Republican majority. But one of the presumed members of the coalition is in a precarious position that grew even more uncertain with the latest round of results. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democratic incumbent Rep. Cliff Groh, who represents a North Anchorage district, was leading Republican David Nelson by only 10 votes after the Friday vote tally. Additional votes could come in the race as absentee ballots are counted. The latest ballot count did not significantly change the results in any other legislative races. The outcomes in a handful of legislative seats will not be known until ranked choice ballots are tabulated. chart visualization chart visualization chart visualization German police said they temporarily detained 111 people during a pro-Palestinian demonstration held in Berlin at the weekend. During the protest held on Saturday near the German capital's famous high-end shopping street, the Kurfurstendamm, police briefly detained 54 women and 57 men. Police said on Sunday that investigations are under way into 21 instances of criminal offences, including breach of the peace, incitement of the people, symbols of terrorist organizations, bodily harm and threats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, there were 95 reports of administrative offences due to violations of the law regarding demonstrations. According to police reports, the demonstration, which had 500 participants, saw some individuals set off fireworks and flares. Furthermore, there were some altercations, including one between a demonstrator and a journalist. Pro-Palestinian protests in Germany, and in particular in Berlin, have been a major flashpoint since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel and the start of Israel's war in the Gaza Strip. German authorities have sought to crack down on protests that they contend have been marred by anti-Semitic rhetoric and symbols, as well as incidents of violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Critics, however, accuse German law enforcement of suppressing free speech. At Saturday's march police registered the names of approximately 100 demonstrators who refused to disperse even after the event had officially ended. Former U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara said Sunday that President-elect Trump is a choosing a bomb-thrower in former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) for attorney general. On ABC Newss This Week, a clip was played of Gaetz calling for taking away funds and doing away with the FBI, CDC, ATF, DOJ, every last one of them, if they do not come to heel. Again, you talk about a president being able to choose whomever he wants, ABC Newss Martha Raddatz said. The voters chose Donald Trump. They know this is what he wants. So, if he is confirmed, how much power would he have to do what he says? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He would have a tremendous amount of power, and he has the backing of a president who is a flamethrower himself, a bomb-thrower himself, whos choosing a bomb-thrower for that job, Bharara said. Earlier this week, the president-elect announced that Gaetz will be nominated to head the Justice Department. It is my Great Honor to announce that Congressman Matt Gaetz, of Florida, is hereby nominated to be The Attorney General of the United States. Matt is a deeply gifted and tenacious attorney, trained at the William & Mary College of Law, who has distinguished himself in Congress through his focus on achieving desperately needed reform at the Department of Justice, Trump said on his social media site. Gaetz was one of the president-elects strongest supporters in the House but has critics within his party, most notably ex-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), with whom he has publicly feuded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And again, [the] president has a right to a substantial deference, but not complete and total deference, Bharara said Sunday. Theres the United States Senate, theyre accountable to the public as well, and they have a role to advise and consent. Gaetz will most likely have to earn votes in the upper chamber to claim the role of attorney general, and although Republicans will have control of the Senate next year, GOP senators have expressed reservations about casting their votes for him. Gaetz, who resigned from the House immediately after the announcement, has recently been the subject of a probe by the House Ethics Committee looking into whether he took part in sexual misconduct and illicit drug use, alongside other allegations. He has denied allegations of wrongdoing, but Gaetzs resignation essentially kills the probe by taking himself out of the panels jurisdiction. The Hill has reached out to the Trump transition team for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Two U.S. officials say President Joe Biden will allow Ukraine to use long-range missiles supplied by the U.S. to strike Russia. NBC News' Kelly O'Donnell outlines the administration's stance on Ukraine using long-range missiles since Russia's invasion. President Joe Biden has authorized Ukraine to use long-range ATACMS missiles inside Russia, something Biden had specifically prohibited until now, two U.S. officials confirmed to ABC News on Sunday. The use of the ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System) missiles, which have a range of 190 miles, inside Russia means that Ukraine could begin using them in Kursk, where 50,000 Russian troops, including 10,000 North Koreans, are attempting to recapture what Ukraine seized a few months ago. In his nightly address to the nation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the news that restrictions on the longer-range rockets had been lifted, saying, "Blows are not inflicted with words. Such things are not announced. The rockets will speak for themselves." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. had previously provided Ukraine with shorter-range ATACM missiles equipped with cluster munitions that could be used only on Ukrainian territory seized by Russia. But Ukraine has been lobbying for a long time to allow the use of the longer-range ATACMS to strike deep into Russia. PHOTO: This handout photo courtesy of the US Department of Defense taken on December 14, 2021 shows the US Army conducting live fire tests of the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. (John Hamilton/DoD/AFP via Getty Images) U.S. officials have publicly pushed back on how effective that system would be and pointed out that the U.S. does not have those missiles in large numbers. Instead, U.S. officials have spoken about how effective Ukraine's long-range drones have been in striking deep into Russia as a much cheaper alternative and in larger numbers. And the Biden administration had worried about crossing a red line with Russia, which has warned against allowing Ukraine to use longer-range weapons. Biden to allow Ukraine to use longer-range US missiles in Russia: Sources originally appeared on abcnews.go.com President Joe Biden will allow Ukraine to strike Russia with US-provided long-range missiles. The US previously restricted Ukraine from striking Russia with the powerful ATACMS. The major development follows Russia's decision to include North Korea in the conflict. President Joe Biden has authorized the use of powerful, US-provided long-range missiles for Ukraine to strike inside Russia, according to multiple reports. The Army Tactical Missile Systems, or ATACMS, will likely be used against targets in Russia's Kursk region, The New York Times first reported on Sunday. Ukraine launched a surprise invasion there in early August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The policy shift, which comes just weeks before President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration, came after Russia launched a widespread missile and drone attack targeting Ukraine's power grid on Sunday. It also comes as North Korea joins the war. US intelligence reported earlier this month that thousands of North Korean troops clad in Russian gear were set to hit the front lines in Kursk, and they have already seen combat against Kyiv's forces in the region. The move is a significant shift in US policy. The US provided Ukraine with ATACMS in the fall of 2023, although Kyiv had long been restricted from striking across Russia's borders and instead was limited to targets in the Russian-occupied territory of Ukraine. The longer-range variant of the missile can travel a little under 200 miles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian officials, including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, have long tried to get the United States to drop the restrictions. They were thought to be in place because the Biden administration feared a policy shift could escalate the conflict. Zelenskyy did not immediately comment on the development. Military experts previously told Business Insider that the ATACMS restrictions were hindering Ukraine's progress by making it harder to target the source of Russian attacks and instead forcing Kyiv to defend against each attack as it occurred. However, despite the restrictions, Ukraine has used an arsenal of domestically produced drones and missiles to carry out long-range strikes on key military and energy facilities inside Russia. Biden's decision will allow Ukraine to train its sights on some 245 Russian targets using ATACMS. Beyond the US-provided missiles, Kyiv also fields long-range cruise missiles that the UK and France provided. The Defense Department and the White House National Security Council declined to comment on the decision. Read the original article on Business Insider LIMA, Peru President Joe Biden and Chinas leader Xi Jinping met for just under two hours on the sidelines of the APEC summit Saturday, marking the end to their 15-year diplomatic relationship and ushering in a new era of uncertainty as Donald Trump prepares to return to office. The two leaders agreed to avoid giving artificial intelligence control of nuclear weapons systems, and they made progress toward the release of the two U.S. citizens behind bars in China that the State Department considers wrongfully detained. Biden also pressured Xi to rein in North Koreas support of Russia in its conflict with Ukraine. Biden is looking for ways to emergency-proof the U.S.-China relationship before Trump takes over the White House. And Saturdays substantive meeting was a sign that both leaders were trying to make the most of Bidens remaining few weeks in office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The surprise agreement on AI marks a breakthrough in the Biden administrations efforts over the past four years on issues of nuclear safety and proliferation. Beijing has repeatedly rebuffed those efforts and canceled a working group meeting on nuclear arms control in July in protest of a U.S. weapons sale to Taiwan. The agreement Saturday commits both countries to ensure that there should be human control over the decision to use nuclear weapons, national security adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters in a post-meeting press briefing. The Chinese Foreign Ministrys readout of the leaders discussion confirmed the agreement and described it as a joint recognition to maintain human control over the decision to use nuclear weapons. The Chinese also reiterated their desire for more dialogue and cooperation with the U.S. and the need to avoid a new Cold War, while warning that containing China is unwise, unacceptable and bound to fail. In brief public remarks at the Chinese delegations hotel, the two leaders emphasized the importance of stability in the U.S.-China relationship. Speaking through a translator, Xi said both countries should inject more certainty and positive energy into the turbulent world. Biden said that such in-person conversations prevent miscalculations, and they ensure the competition between our two countries will not veer into conflict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was a notable shift in tone from the last time the two leaders met at the 2023 APEC gathering in San Francisco, in the wake of the Chinese spy balloon incident. Biden walked out of the four-hour long meeting then and, in a news conference, called Xi a dictator for the second time. Biden officials had downplayed expectations ahead of this years meeting, telling reporters not to anticipate the president emerging from the discussion with a list of deliverables. But the surprisingly productive meeting comes as Trump threatens to upend the relative stability between the two countries when he takes office in January. Trump promised during his campaign to impose punishing tariffs on China, and his recent Cabinet selections have indicated he will take a much more hawkish approach to the U.S.-China relationship, tacking away from Bidens strategy of responsibly managing competition. Trump said he would nominate Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), a fierce critic of Beijing, to be his secretary of State. He has also selected Rep. Mike Waltz (R-Fla.) as national security adviser, and former Rep. John Ratcliffe (R-Texas) to lead the CIA, both of whom have also been critical of China. Beijing has limited its comments on Trumps electoral victory to a congratulatory message from Xi and hasnt addressed the president-elects appointments of China hawks over the past week.. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But in a nod to the incoming Trump administration, Xi warned that productive U.S.-China ties were at risk if either country makes moves to pursue vicious competition and seek to hurt each other, Chinas official news agency Xinhua said in post-meeting reporting. In a speech earlier Saturday, Xi also hinted at the potential challenges of a Trumps presidency, warning of rising tendencies of geopolitics, unilateralism and protectionism. Still, as he greeted Biden Saturday afternoon, Xi said China is ready to work with the new U.S. administration to maintain communication, expand cooperation and manage differences, so as to strive for a steady transition of the China-U.S. relationship for the benefit of the two peoples. Chinas goal of a stable, healthy and sustainable China-U.S. relationship remains unchanged. Biden did not host a press conference after the meeting, as hes done the previous two times hes met in-person with Xi since he took office in 2021. Instead, national security adviser Jake Sullivan took questions from reporters gathered in a hotel ballroom overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Although Biden officials attending APEC have downplayed Trump's looming presence at the meeting, Sullivan acknowledged that the incoming administration was a feature of Bidens discussion with Xi. President Biden noted the obvious facts that there will be a new administration, Sullivan said. From President Bidens perspective, he wasnt projecting ahead to what was going to happen after January 20. He was really focused on the fact that there is a transition unfolding that President Bidens determined for that transition to be smooth and for him to pass the relationship off and hed like to pass it off on stable terms to the new administration. November 17, National Revival Day, is one of the key milestones in the struggle for Azerbaijan's freedom and played a historic role in the restoration of the countrys independence, Azernews reports. To mark this significant day, a traditional large-scale book exhibition titled "November 17 - National Revival Day" was opened at the National Library. The exhibition showcases books in Azerbaijani and other languages, focusing on the history of Azerbaijan in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the national awakening of the Azerbaijani people, their struggle for freedom and statehood, the development of national self-awareness, moral values, and the rescue mission of the Great Leader Heydar Aliyev. Topics also include Heydar Aliyev's role in Azerbaijan's national revival and other related subjects. The erosion of political freedoms in Hong Kong will come under the spotlight this week with key developments in two high-profile national security trials. On Wednesday, jailed tycoon and pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai will testify in his collusion trial, breaking the silence he has kept over five previous trials and almost four years in jail. - Advertisement - He will take the stand the day after the sentencing of 45 pro-democracy politicians and activists for a subversion case triggered by their holding an unofficial election primary. Both cases could carry sentences of up to life in prison. Western countries and international rights groups have condemned the two trials as evidence of Hong Kongs increased authoritarianism since Beijing imposed a national security law on the city in 2020. These are two cases that epitomise the collapse of human rights in Hong Kong since (then), Amnesty Internationals China Director Sarah Brooks told AFP. Not only have these prosecutions been draconian; they have also been cruel - dragged out for several years with no regard for the lives and families shattered along the way. But China and Hong Kong say the law has restored order after the city was rocked by massive, sometimes violent pro-democracy protests in 2019, and have warned against interference from other countries. Ukraines wait for permission to use US-made ATACM long-range missiles on Russian territory is finally over. President Joe Biden has greenlit Ukraines use of ATACMs against targets in the Kursk region, where Russian and North Korean forces are seeking to extricate their Ukrainian counterparts from ensconced positions. Bidens decision is a groundbreaking Ukrainian diplomatic triumph. At the September 13 Yalta European Strategy Conference, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky argued that the ATACM deliveries were pointless if they could not be used against Russian targets. Zelensky used this logic in a personal appeal to Biden at the White House later that month but left Washington empty-handed. The specter of President-elect Donald Trumps return to the White House and pledged cutoffs of US aid to Ukraine belatedly prodded Biden towards decisive action. Ukraines use of ATACMs in Kursk will provide immediate benefits for its increasingly bleak frontline position. Russias deployment of 10,000 North Korean troops to Kursk Oblast is widely believed to be an asymmetric retaliation for Ukraine receiving permission to use Nato-class weaponry against Russian targets. Calling Russias bluff by expanding Ukraines use of ATACMs could deter President Vladimir Putin from recruiting additional North Korean troop contingents in 2025. It could also allow Ukraine to strike the Kursk Vostochny Airport, a military facility that reportedly houses MiG-29 jets and Pantsir S-1 air defense systems, with greater regularity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The true significance of Bidens decision hinges on the flexibility that the US affords to Ukrainian troops. As Ukraine has already used shorter-range HIMARS in cross-border strikes around Kharkiv, the US could approve the use of ATACMs for similar purposes. This would further complicate Russias efforts to achieve a military breakthrough in the Kupiansk direction. It remains unclear whether the US will allow Ukraine to use ATACMS against Russian targets that lie further away from the frontlines. While Russia has pre-emptively moved 90 per cent of the aircraft that it uses in glide bomb strikes away from the range of ATACMs, 17 airbases and at least 250 major military objects lie within their radius. If Bidens decision encourages British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to loosen restrictions on Storm Shadow missile use, these facilities will become even more vulnerable. Ukraines alleged drone strike on a Russian factory in Izhevsk on Sunday, which is located 1,300km from its borders, has disrupted Russias drone and air defense production chains. Securing broader permissions for ATACM and Storm Shadow use will compound Ukraines indigenous technological breakthroughs. As Trumps inauguration nears, the US is finally making a complete rally behind the cause of Ukrainian victory. A promising pivot but one that could be too little, too late for Ukraine. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. By Mike Stone and Humeyra Pamuk WASHINGTON (Reuters) -President Joe Biden's administration has allowed Ukraine to use U.S.-made weapons to strike deep into Russia, two U.S. officials and a source familiar with the decision said on Sunday, in a significant reversal of Washington's policy in the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Ukraine plans to conduct its first long-range attacks in the coming days, the sources said, without revealing details due to operational security concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move comes two months before President-elect Donald Trump takes office on Jan. 20 and follows months of pleas by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to allow Ukraine's military to use U.S. weapons to hit Russian military targets far from its border. The change comes largely in response to Russia's deployment of North Korean ground troops to supplement its own forces, a development that has caused alarm in Washington and Kyiv, a U.S. official and a source familiar with the decision said. Zelenskiy said in his evening address that the missiles would "speak for themselves." "Today, many in the media are saying that we have received permission to take appropriate actions," he said. "But strikes are not made with words. Such things are not announced." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The White House and U.S. State Department declined to comment. There was no immediate response from the Kremlin, which has warned that it would see a move to loosen the limits on Ukraine's use of U.S. weapons as a major escalation. Vladimir Dzhabarov, first deputy head of the Russian upper house's international affairs committee, said Washington's decision to let Kyiv strike deep into Russia could lead to "World War Three". "The West has decided on such a level of escalation that it could end with the Ukrainian statehood in complete ruins by morning," Andrei Klishas, a senior member of the Federation Council, Russia's upper chamber of parliament, said on the Telegram messaging app. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine's first deep strikes are likely to be carried out using ATACMS rockets, which have a range of up to 190 miles (306 km), according to the sources. While some U.S. officials have expressed skepticism that allowing long-range strikes will change the war's overall trajectory, the decision could help Ukraine at a moment when Russian forces are making gains and possibly put Kyiv in a better negotiating position when and if ceasefire talks happen. It is not clear if Trump will reverse Biden's decision when he takes office. Trump has long criticized the scale of U.S. financial and military aid to Ukraine and has vowed to end the war quickly, without explaining how. A Trump spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment. But one of Trump's closest foreign policy advisers, Richard Grenell, criticized the decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Escalating the wars before he leaves office," Grenell said, in an X post responding to the news. Some congressional Republicans had urged Biden to loosen the rules on how Ukraine can use U.S.-provided weapons. Since Trump's Nov. 5 victory, senior Biden administration officials have repeatedly said they would use the remaining time to ensure Ukraine can fight effectively next year or negotiate peace with Russia from a "position of strength". 'WAY TOO LATE' The U.S. believes more than 10,000 North Korean soldiers have been sent to eastern Russia and that most of them have moved to the Kursk region and have begun to engage in combat operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia is advancing at its fastest rate since 2022 despite taking heavy losses, and Ukraine said it had clashed with some of those North Korean troops deployed to Kursk. Stretched by personnel shortages, Ukrainian forces have lost some of the ground they captured in an August incursion into Kursk that Zelenskiy said could serve as a bargaining chip. "Removing targeting restrictions will allow the Ukrainians to stop fighting with one hand tied behind their back," Alex Plitsas, senior non-resident fellow at the Atlantic Council, said. "However, like everything else, I believe history will say the decision came way too late. Just like the ATACMS, HIMARS, Bradley Fighting Vehicles, Abrams tanks and F-16. They were all needed much sooner," he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite Zelenskiy's pleas, the White House had been reluctant to allow U.S.-supplied weapons to be used to strike targets deep inside Russia for fear this could ratchet up the conflict. Republican U.S. Representative Mike Turner, who chairs the House Intelligence Committee, said in a statement that Bidens decision was long overdue and that there were still too many restrictions on Ukraine. But he added: This first step will put pressure on Vladimir Putin as President-elect Trump returns to the White House and works to end this war. Kyiv's other allies have been supplying weapons but with restrictions on how and when they can be used inside Russia, out of concern such strikes could prompt retaliation that draws NATO countries into the war or provokes a nuclear conflict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Poland's foreign minister, Radoslaw Sikorski, also called the move a response to North Korea's involvement. "President Biden responded to the entry of North Korean troops into the war and the massive Russian missile strike in a language that V. Putin understands - by removing restrictions on Ukraine's use of Western missiles," Sikorski said on X. (Reporting by Mike Stone and Humeyra Pamuk in Washington; Additional reporting by Barbara Erling in Warsaw, Tom Balmforth and Olena Harmash in Kyiv, Matt Spetalnick in Washington; Editing by Scott Malone and Lisa Shumaker) Outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Lima on Nov. 16 to discuss a "range of bilateral, regional, and global issues," the White House said. Biden met the Chinese leader on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, marking his last meeting with Xi before leaving office in January 2025. "President Biden condemned the deployment of thousands of (North Korean) troops to Russia, a dangerous expansion of Russias unlawful war against Ukraine with serious consequences for both European and Indo-Pacific peace and security," the White House statement read. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pyongyang has deployed around 11,000 troops to reinforce Moscow's troops in Russia's Kursk Oblast, in addition to already provided artillery and missiles. China, a close partner to both Russia and North Korea, has claimed it had no knowledge of the troop transfer, though some experts disputed this statement. Biden also "expressed deep concern over (China's) continued support for Russias defense industrial base." While claiming neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine war, China has become Russia's leading source of dual-use goods, helping to sustain the Russian defense industry amid the invasion. The German media outlet Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ) recently reported that the EU obtained evidence that this support has expanded to "lethal aid," specifically the production of attack drones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the meeting, Xi claimed that China's position regarding the war has "always been fair and square," the Xinhua state news agency reported. The Chinese president also said his country would "not allow conflict and turmoil to happen on the Korean Peninsula" and that Beijing would "not sit idly by" while its strategic interests are endangered, Xinhua wrote. Biden is concluding his term before the inauguration of his political rival and former president, Donald Trump, whose return to the White House may significantly impact Russia's war in Ukraine and security worldwide. Read also: China was well aware of North Korean troop deployment ahead of time, expert says Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. President Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping met for the third and final time on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Peru on Saturday, in the wake of the U.S. presidential election. The United States has recently concluded its elections, Xi told Biden. Chinas goal of a stable, healthy and sustainable China-U.S. relationship remains unchanged. China is ready to work with the new US administration to maintain communication, expand cooperation and manage differences, so as to strive for a steady transition of the China-US relationship for the benefit of the two peoples, Xi continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their meeting comes as President-elect Trump who has long talked tough on China, even as he occasionally expressed his admiration for Xis strength as its leader is set to return to the White House. He has vowed to impose a 60-percent tariff on Chinese goods, as well as general tariffs of 10-to-20 percent on all imports. Chinese authorities previously told The Hill they dont want a trade war and stressed the importance of the stability of global production and supply chains. During Trumps first term, his trade policies included steep tariffs on Chinese goods and a renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During Xis opening remarks, he emphasized the importance of good U.S.-China relations. When the two countries treat each other as partner and friend, seek common ground while shelving differences and help each other succeed, our relationship would make considerable progress. But if we take each other as rivals or adversary, pursue vicious competition, and seek to hurt each other, we would roil the relationship or even set it back, Xi said. Bidens opening remarks also highlighted the partnership between China and the U.S. We are the most important alliance or the most important relationship in the entire world, and how were getting along together can impact the rest of the world. And so our two countries can not let any of this competition veer into conflict. Thats our responsibility and over the last four years I think weve proven its possible to have this relationship, Biden said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Xi used his speeches during the summit to reject protectionism. Conversation surrounding APEC thus far has largely focused on heightened trade and security rivalry between the U.S. and China. Earlier this year, Biden and Xi spoke on the phone as a check-in following a commitment between the two to take concrete actions to improve the relationship between the two countries, including discussing Chinas anger at Washingtons support for Taiwan and Chinas support for Russias war against Ukraine. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. MANAUS, Brazil President Joe Biden on Sunday urged the next administration to build upon his climate agenda as Donald Trump threatens to tear his policies to shreds when he returns to office in January. Speaking on a dirt path at the Museu da Amazonia, a nature reserve nestled along the confluence of the Negro and Amazon rivers, Biden was surrounded by lush rainforest. Wearing a blue collared shirt and his trademark aviators, the president said when he departs the White House in January, he will leave Trump whom he did not mention by name with a strong foundation to build on, if they choose to do so. Some may seek to deny or delay the clean energy revolution thats underway in America, but nobody nobody can reverse it. Nobody. Not when so many people, regardless of party or politics, are enjoying its benefits. Not when countries around the world are harnessing the clean energy revolution to pull ahead themselves, Biden said. The question now is which government will stand in the way, and which will seize the enormous economic opportunity? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden hoped his historic trip to the Amazon would come on the heels of Vice President Kamala Harris election, confidently telling the world that his climate agenda would be carried on. But Trumps win has recast the visit, magnifying the fragility of some of Bidens policies in less friendly hands and making the complicated logistics of a presidential visit to the dense rainforest seem somewhat quaint. Even some of the presidents announcements on Sunday were largely symbolic. Biden signed a proclamation designating Nov. 17 as International Conservation Day, and he announced additional U.S. funding for the Amazon fund, which requires congressional action and is unlikely to get out the door with Republicans in control. He also announced that the U.S. has met its pledge to increase international climate financing to more than $11 billion by 2024, according to a White House fact sheet. Thats a six-fold increase from the $1.5 billion spent when he took office. Trumps election is also complicating Bidens hopes of using the visit to the Amazon to cement his climate legacy. Members of his own party have blamed the president for Trumps victory, arguing he should have never run for reelection and waited far too long to drop out of the race after it became apparent he could not win. Some Democrats feel that Trumps victory, and the consequences that follow, should be a defining part of how the Biden presidency is remembered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump, who has called climate change a hoax, is likely to pull out of the Paris accord, roll back environmental protections and increase production of oil and gas which is already at an all-time high. Trumps transition team is reportedly discussing ways to eliminate the electric vehicle tax credit championed by Biden. And hes already stacking his Cabinet and West Wing with officials eager to rip apart federal programs aimed at reducing air and water pollution. Trump on Saturday announced hed selected Chris Wright to lead the Energy Department. Wright, the head of a Denver-based oilfield service company, has disputed the role of climate change in causing extreme weather. After the Amazon visit, Biden will travel to Rio de Janeiro for the annual G20 summit, where the future of global climate policy is likely to be a major point of discussion. But its unclear how much influence the U.S. will have in the discussion this year. At the annual United Nations climate summit taking place this week in Azerbaijan, global leaders were already discussing a path forward without the U.S. playing a key leadership role. Biden ticked through his administrations actions on Sunday, pointing to his sweeping legislative accomplishments that have unlocked $1 trillion for clean energy technologies and the factories needed to build them. And he called the fight against climate change a defining cause of his presidency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, Im proud to be here, the first sitting U.S. president to visit the Amazon rainforest to recommit to protecting the rainforest like this one, Biden said. He also met with local and Indigenous leaders working to preserve the Amazon ecosystem and took a helicopter tour of the rainforest. The president flew over the drought-stricken Rio Negro, a major tributary of the Amazon River and traveled over the outskirts of Manaus, with leafy green trees spanning as far as the eye could see. Ahead of the trip, White House officials downplayed suggestions that Trumps election would overshadow the presidents visit to the Amazon. They stressed the historic nature of the visit and emphasized the preeminence of combating climate change in his administration. I dont think it clouds his trip, press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said when asked about the election results. Hes very much looking forward to going to the Amazon. Its a historic trip, obviously, for a president to make. But as Biden wandered through the rainforest at the Museu da Amazonia, macaws squawking overhead in the tall tree cover it was a reminder of all that was at stake in the global fight against climate change, and the rapidly shrinking role that Biden can play in it. By Jarrett Renshaw MANAUS, Brazil (Reuters) -Joe Biden became the first sitting U.S. president to visit the Amazon rainforest on Sunday, flagging the dangers of global warming often dismissed by President-elect Donald Trump, who has vowed to scrap measures to fight climate change. Biden flew from Lima, Peru, to Manaus, Brazil, the largest city in the Amazon, to meet with local leaders working to preserve the rainforest. He was to head afterward to Rio de Janeiro for a summit of the Group of 20 major economies that will address issues including poverty, global governance and climate change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While in the Amazon, Biden toured aboard his Marine One presidential helicopter, viewing the confluence of the Amazon and Rio Negro rivers at Manaus, spots where water levels have dropped sharply due to the worst drought in decades. Biden was accompanied by Brazilian scientist and Nobel Prize winner Carlos Nobre, who has warned that the Amazon may be beyond saving as deforestation has changed the weather patterns that sustain its jungle climate. Biden also went to the Museum of the Amazon in Manaus where he met with Indigenous leaders who want to protect the rainforest. "The world's forest trees breathe carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere, and yet each minute, the world is chopping down the equivalent (of) 10 soccer fields worth of forest," he told reporters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scientists say conservation of the Amazon is vital to curbing climate change because of the vast amount of climate-warming carbon dioxide its trees absorb. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has vowed to end deforestation in his country's rainforest by 2030 and has urged wealthy nations to contribute to the cause via the Amazon Fund run by Brazil's state development bank. In his four-hour stop in Manaus, Biden announced an additional $50 million contribution to the Amazon Fund, bringing the U.S. commitment to $100 million. Last year, Biden said he would request $500 million from the U.S. Congress to support the Amazon Fund. However, the United States had delivered on just a tenth of that pledge by July. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new contribution was part of the Biden administration's effort to expand U.S. climate finance six-fold during his four years in office to $11 billion annually, the White House said. Biden said he will leave the next president with a strong climate policy to build from "if they choose to do so." But his administration's initiatives may be on thin ice when President-elect Trump returns to office in January. Trump has called climate change a hoax and plans to roll back much of Biden's landmark climate legislation to help pay for the extension of tax cuts secured in his first term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incoming Republican president also aims to boost record U.S. oil and natural gas production and eliminate rules imposed by Biden to wean gasoline-powered cars off U.S. roads. (Reporting by Jarrett Renshaw;Editing by Anthony Boadle, Brad Haynes, Cynthia Osterman and Lisa Shumaker) By Jarrett Renshaw and Trevor Hunnicutt LIMA (Reuters) -U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed on Saturday that human beings and not artificial intelligence should make decisions over the use of nuclear weapons, according to the White House. "The two leaders affirmed the need to maintain human control over the decision to use nuclear weapons," the White House said in a statement. "The two leaders also stressed the need to consider carefully the potential risks and develop AI technology in the military field in a prudent and responsible manner." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An official Chinese government summary of the meeting echoed this point. The Chinese foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. It was not clear whether the statement would lead to further talks or action on the issue. But it marks a first-of-its-kind step between the two countries in the discussion of two issues on which progress has been elusive: nuclear arms and artificial intelligence. Washington has been pushing Beijing for months to break a longstanding resistance to nuclear arms talks. The two countries briefly resumed official-level talks over nuclear arms in November but those negotiations have since stalled, with a top U.S. official publicly expressing frustration regarding China's responsiveness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Formal nuclear arms control negotiations have not been expected any time soon, despite U.S. concerns about China's rapid nuclear weapons build-up, even though semi-official exchanges have resumed. On artificial intelligence, China and the United States launched their first formal bilateral talks on the issue in May in Geneva, but those talks are not believed to have touched on nuclear weapons decision-making. The U.S. defense department estimated last year that Beijing has 500 operational nuclear warheads and will probably field more than 1,000 by 2030. That compares to 1,770 and 1,710 operational warheads deployed by the United States and Russia, respectively. The Pentagon said that by 2030, much of Beijing's weapons would probably be held at higher levels of readiness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since 2020, China has also modernized its nuclear program, starting production of its next-generation ballistic missile submarine, testing hypersonic glide vehicle warheads and holding regular nuclear-armed sea patrols. Weapons on land, in the air and at sea give China the "nuclear triad" - a hallmark of a major nuclear power. China has not formally detailed its arsenal but officially maintains a policy of no first use and maintaining a modern nuclear deterrence that is minimal. Officials this year urged other powers to adopt the same stance. In recent semi-official exchanges with U.S. scholars and retired officials, Chinese academics said its policies remained unchanged and described Western assessments as "exaggerations." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Biden administration updated classified nuclear guidance this year, and a White House spokesperson previously said the update was "not a response to any single entity, country, nor threat," despite oft-expressed concern about the nuclear arsenals of China, North Korea and Russia. (Reporting by Jarrett Renshaw and Trevor Hunnicutt; Additional reporting by Eduardo Baptista; Editing by Daniel Wallis, Nick Zieminski and Richard Chang) TYLER, Texas (KETK) Big Sandy, Hawkins and Gladewater ISD are in mourning after each district lost a community member in a fatal crash on Saturday. Very concerned for his safety: Texarkana PD search for missing 38-year-old last seen late October Big Sandy ISD is sad to learn of the passing of a member of our Wildcat family yesterday in a car accident. The district extends its deepest condolences to his family and to our many students who were friends with him and loved him. Big Sandy ISD Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hawkins ISD also posted about losing one of their students in a fatal crash they said has impacted both communities. It is with a heavy heart that we share the tragic loss of a student and member of our Hawk community in a car accident. This loss has deeply impacted our students, staff, and families, and our thoughts and prayers are with everyone grieving during this difficult time. We also stand alongside our neighbors in Big Sandy ISD as they mourn the loss of a student. This tragedy has impacted both of our communities, and we extend our condolences and support to all who are grieving. Hawkins ISD Big Sandy ISD shared their condolences with Hawkins ISD as well by saying Big Sandy also offers its condolences to our neighbors in Hawkins ISD and its students and families as they share this loss with us. Gladewater ISD shared that they lost a former student in the crash as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is with a heavy heart that we share the tragic loss of a former student and member of our Gladewater community in a car accident. This loss has deeply impacted our students, staff, and families, and our thoughts and prayers are with everyone grieving during this difficult time. We also stand alongside our neighbors in Big Sandy ISD and Hawkins as they mourn the loss. This tragedy has impacted all of our communities, and we extend our condolences and support to all who are grieving. Gladewater ISD All three districts said theyd have extra counselors available on campus in the coming days and Hawkins ISD said their counselors will be available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. today. Houston County Justice of the Peace Precinct 1 Mike McCreight told KETK that a Hawkins 16-year-old died in a crash that happened at around 3:40 p.m. on Highway 19 north of Lovelady on Saturday. McCreight said there were five people involved in the crash. Two adults were in one vehicle and another vehicle had a 16-year-old who McCreight pronounced dead at the scene, and two others who were flown from the crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McCreight could not confirm whether any of the people involved in the Houston County crash were the students from Big Sandy, Hawkins or Gladewater ISD. McCreight said that the crash is currently being investigated by the Texas Department of Public Safety in Crockett. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. When the Plymouth settlers and the Wampanoag sat down for the first Thanksgiving feast, we doubt they paid any mind to the corporate food recalls that could one day plague the dishes on their table. A few centuries later, things are a bit different. If history has taught the food industry anything, it's that everything and anything on sale in grocery stores can be recalled in a food safety panic -- and unfortunately, that includes turkey. Like all meat products, turkey has been embroiled in its fair share of urgent recalls. This usually comes down to some kind of contamination, from harmful bacteria such as salmonella and listeria to unexpected foreign objects like plastic. The more processed the turkey -- or, in other words, the more time it spends in a production line -- the higher the odds of contamination. On extremely rare occasions, this contamination can even prove to have fatal consequences. From turkey breast to ready-to-eat turkey products, here are some of the most major recalls to hit the industry over the years. Read more: 6 Canned Meats You Should Buy And 6 You Shouldn't Multiple BrucePac Turkey Products (2024) Turkey wrap with salad in it - Lauripatterson/Getty Images Listeria has a track record for wreaking havoc on the food industry. Technically known as listeria monocytogenes, this bacteria can cause an illness known as listeriosis. While typical symptoms include the likes of nausea, fever, diarrhea, and vomiting, it can have a more serious impact on the vulnerable and even be fatal -- hence why BrucePac moved so quickly in May 2024 after realizing that several of its ready-to-eat poultry products could have been contaminated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Having produced ready-to-eat turkey (and chicken) products for the likes of Aldi, Walmart, Target, Trader Joe's, and Kroger, BrucePac had to move fast. The recall was large, with the comprehensive list of affected products compiled by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) spanning over 400 pages. Fewer turkey products were included on the list than chicken, but popular snack products such as Trader Joe's Turkey Club Wrap and Walmart's Marketside Cobb Salad with Turkey & Bacon unfortunately made the cut. Several schools also received potentially contaminated products, with 11,765,285 pounds recalled in total. Luckily, no illnesses were reported to the USDA in relation to any poultry products produced by BrucePac, but there's no way of saying what could have happened had it not carried out such a thorough recall. Salm Partners LLC Turkey Kielbasa (2024) Slices of turkey sausage with mushrooms - The Image Party/Shutterstock In January 2024, Salm Partners LLC got the New Year off to a bang by initiating a recall of 133,039 pounds of ready-to-eat turkey kielbasa, sold under the name Parkview Turkey Polska Kielbasa. With the kielbasa -- a kind of smoked sausage that heralds from Poland -- already distributed nationwide, it was a huge undertaking. However, it was also much needed, with multiple customers having already complained that their sausages were contaminated. This time around, it wasn't bacteria that worked its way into the turkey. Instead, it was fragments of bone -- something that has no place in kielbasa, or most foods for that matter. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has strict guidelines on how much bone can be left in poultry products, only allowing particles that measure a maximum of 1.5 millimeters by 2 millimeters. As per the FSIS, one of the complaints came from a customer who suffered a minor oral injury after biting into one of these bone fragments in their sausage. To prevent the same thing happening again, anyone who found the sausage in their kitchen was encouraged to return it for a refund ASAP. Jennie-O Turkey Meatballs (2023) Turkey meatballs covered in tomato sauce - Elena_danileiko/Getty Images Back in April 2023, customers who purchased Jennie-O fully cooked turkey sausage patties were in for a surprise when they opened the packaging. They'd actually purchased mislabeled frozen turkey meatballs, which wouldn't be a major problem unless you had a soy allergy (or, you know, just had a passionate hatred of turkey meatballs). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) got to quick work recalling the Abbyland Foods-produced meatballs. In total, it's thought that roughly 11,800 pounds of meatballs were mislabeled. That equaled an awful lot of undeclared soy protein concentrate. With soy among the top eight allergens in the U.S. -- and especially prevalent in children, most of whom grow out of the allergy by the age of 10 -- the FSIS encouraged customers to double-check any turkey products in their home while also warning institutions that may have bought the product in bulk to do the same. Butterball Ground Turkey (2021) Packages of ground turkey on shelves - The Toidi/Shutterstock Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Butterball is one of the biggest names in the turkey biz, to the point that it even operates a hotline (the Butterball Turkey Talk-Line) come Thanksgiving to help people with their turkey woes. But even with its status, it's still faced a handful of challenging recalls over the years. In October 2021, Butterball was forced to initiate a recall of approximately 14,107 pounds of ground turkey products. Both Butterball all-natural ground turkey and Kroger ground turkey were pulled from grocery store shelves after it was discovered that they may contain small pieces of blue plastic. There were no reports of anybody actually finding this blue plastic in their turkey, never mind suffering any kind of plastic-related consequences, but in situations where extraneous materials may pose a safety risk, it's always better to be safe than sorry. With the recall coming one month before Thanksgiving -- aka what we can only assume is prime time for Butterball business -- it's no surprise that the company was also quick to stress that this was an anomaly. "The health and safety of the people who enjoy our products is a top priority for Butterball, and we work hard to ensure our product safety program meets or exceeds government regulations," Butterball told CNN Business. "It is important to note the current investigation indicates this does not represent a food safety concern according to FDA guidance." Conagra Brands Turkey Bowls (2020) Box of turkey sausage and egg white scramble - Healthy Choice Conagra Brands is no stranger to food recalls. In the 2000s, it faced a string of food safety scandals, from being forced to recall 19 million pounds of ground beef contaminated with E. coli to producing peanut butter linked to over 600 cases of salmonella poisoning. A decade later, Conagra Brands undertook yet another hefty recall -- this time, of its frozen turkey and chicken bowl products. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About 276,872 pounds of these bowls were withdrawn from the market. The reason? Rocks. Multiple customers had complained to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) that they had found small rocks in their meals. As a result, the turkey sausage and egg white scramble variety of Healthy Choice Power Bowls was pulled from stores nationwide, with customers also encouraged by the FSIS to check their freezers for any meals that may potentially come with this unexpected, potentially teeth-cracking side. Butterball Ground Turkey, Again (2019) Packets of Butterball ground turkey stacked atop each other - The Image Party/Shutterstock Two years before blue plastic kickstarted a Butterball ground turkey recall, the brand undertook a much more dramatic task. In March 2019, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced that six ground turkey products produced by Butterball were potentially contaminated with salmonella. While three of these products were Butterball's own brand, two were sold under different brand names: Kroger and Food Lion. In total, this brought the recall to a whopping 39 tons -- or 78,164 pounds -- of raw ground turkey products. The FSIS reported that a fraction of this number had been donated to food banks in Minnesota, North Carolina, Wisconsin, and Massachusetts. The recall was pretty urgent, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, and the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection had already linked the products to an outbreak of salmonellosis (aka the illness contracted by consuming salmonella bacteria) affecting five people across two states. Like listeria, salmonella primarily causes symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, and a fever, but it can also cause more serious illness in vulnerable people and, as per the CDC, causes roughly 420 deaths in the U.S. every year. Jennie-O Ground Turkey (2018 - 2019) Packages of Jennie-O ground turkey - The Image Party/Shutterstock A salmonella outbreak struck in 2018 that was quickly traced back to Jennie-O ground turkey. The company recalled 164,210 pounds of raw ground turkey products, with all but one (Stater Bros ground turkey) sold under the Jennie-O name. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By the time the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development had made a clear link between the outbreak and Jennie-O products, the outbreak was already in full swing. Altogether, 216 people contracted salmonellosis across 38 states. In fact, it's thought that the outbreak actually started back in November 2017, with 22 cases also reported in Canada. Steve Lykken, Jennie-O Turkey Store's president at the time, insisted that the company had made operational changes over the years to reduce the risk of salmonella. For example, it had started vaccinating turkeys to protect them from the bacteria. However, he also claimed that it was an industry-wide issue. "We know the issue of salmonella isn't specific to us," he said (via CNN). Prestage Foods Ground Turkey (2017) Ground turkey on a wooden board - Wiktory/Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Multiple meat recalls have hit Publix in the past, including a mass turkey recall in October 2017. Once again, this affected ground turkey. One Publix worker had noticed that some packages seemed to contain metal shavings and contacted the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), sparking a recall that ultimately affected four products manufactured by Prestage Foods: two varieties of Publix ground turkey and one apiece from Fit & Active and Weis Markets. Approximately 38,475 pounds of meat were pulled from the market in nine different states. While there was never any specific explanation as to exactly how the metal ended up in said turkey, Prestage Foods had contacted the USDA in September to report that some kind of contamination likely took place when workers at its plant were sanitizing processing equipment. Luckily, thanks to the quick response (and that eagle-eyed Publix worker), no injuries were reported due to metal-laden ground turkey. The USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service still classed the recall as Class II, warning that it was "a health hazard situation where there is a remote probability of adverse health consequences from the use of the product." Michigan Turkey Producers Roasted Turkey (2016) Slices of oven roasted turkey - Andrey Starostin/Shutterstock Extraneous materials seem to have a sneaky habit of making their way into turkey. In October 2016, it was an unidentified black material (mysterious, we know) that somehow popped up in oven roasted turkey manufactured by Michigan Turkey Producers. First alerted to the fact by a customer complaint, the company soon issued a recall for approximately 54,011 pounds of its products. The products in question had been shipped to a distribution center in Florida, as well as food services in Florida and Puerto Rico. While nobody wants to find an unidentified black material in their sandwich meat, the good news is that nobody was actually injured (at least, nobody reported any injuries) as a result of contamination. Anyone who may have purchased products with the affected lot codes was encouraged to check and throw out any products regardless, with the United States Department of Agriculture marking this as a Class I recall, meaning "there is a reasonable probability that the use of the product will cause serious, adverse health consequences or death." Cargill Ground Turkey (2011) Ground turkey cooking in a pan - Tanya Consaul Photography/Shutterstock In August 2011, the Cargill Meat Solutions Corporation undertook what was then the third-biggest recall in the U.S. A staggering total of about 36 million pounds of ground turkey (yes, again) was recalled after a strain of salmonella that proved particularly resistant to antibiotics sickened 136 people in 34 states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the outbreak itself is believed to have begun in February of that year, it was only in July that the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) issued a public health alert warning people to take care when handling raw turkey and ensure that it's cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (with salmonella bacteria dying between 145 and 165 degrees Fahrenheit). A few weeks later, the outbreak was linked to the death of a man in Sacramento, at which point Cargill issued a recall for multiple turkey products sold at stores nationwide. It later emerged that the FSIS had found salmonella in Cargill ground turkey all the way back in March but apparently didn't have evidence to justify a recall until months later. In response to the outbreak, Cargill temporarily shuttered its processing plant in Springfield, Arkansas for a week. In September, the same strain of salmonella was again found in the ground turkey, forcing yet another plant closure and a smaller recall. Cargill went on to conduct mass layoffs, and later introduced "the most aggressive and advanced sampling and monitoring program in the poultry industry" (via Meat Poultry). HoneyBaked Foods Inc. Cooked Turkey Products (2006) Sliced turkey on a platter with sliced ham - Lisa Top/Shutterstock Listeria was the root cause of a recall by HoneyBaked Foods Inc. in November 2006. The company -- which had sold the potentially contaminated turkey through its catalog, website, and four The Honey Baked Ham stores in Ohio -- warned that all 3-pound packages of its cooked turkey breast (plus packages of its whole ham and glazed half ham) were at risk. This recall was initially voluntary but soon became government-mandated. Nearly 47,000 pounds of meat were affected altogether and had been distributed nationwide before the recall, with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency also issuing a health hazard alert. In an unfortunate twist of fate, the recall came a day after Thanksgiving, when plenty of turkey and ham had likely already been consumed. On the bright side, no reported illnesses were linked to HoneyBaked Foods meat, giving this listeria recall story one of the happier endings. LSK Smoked Turkey Products, Inc. Turkey Wings And Drumsticks (2005) Turkey wings on a wooden board - Yelenayemchuk/Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As you've probably already realized, listeria is an all too common threat to the food industry. It doesn't help that listeria bacteria actually thrives in cold temperatures, meaning all that meat you so safely secure in the refrigerator or freezer is still at risk. LSK Smoked Turkey Products, Inc. had to grapple with that reality in 2005 when routine testing by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) found positive results for listeria monocytogenes. The New York-based company went on to recall 39,000 pounds of its turkey wings and drumsticks. By this point, they had already been distributed across Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Florida. This was another case of preemptive action that may have prevented any actual illness; no cases were linked to LSK Smoked Turkey Products, Inc., once again proving the importance of routine testing and speedy recalls. International Trading Company Canned Turkey (2004) Red can of turkey luncheon meat - Phoenicia Specialty Foods Processed meat doesn't exactly have the best reputation. While it's often cheaper than its non-processed counterparts, consuming too much processed meat comes with its own health risks. The process of, well, processing the meat also opens up more windows of opportunity to contamination. In November 2004, the thing that sparked a minor panic for International Trading Company was a complaint from one of its wholesale customers that some of its canned turkey luncheon meat was possibly under-processed. The risk here was that meat that was supposed to be pre-cooked wasn't done so thoroughly enough to be safely consumed. As a result, the Texas-based company started recalling its Al Haloub Cow, Turkey Luncheon Meat. This recall started in Puerto Rico, where nearly 11,000 pounds of canned turkey were pulled from distribution. A week later, however, the recall expanded to cover the U.S. The International Trading Company withdrew over 84,000 pounds of its 12-ounce cans of turkey from California, Florida, Illinois, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, and Texas, plus the Netherlands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No reported illnesses were linked to the turkey, but the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) still flagged the recall as a high health risk. That meant that the product presented a danger of having serious health consequences, or even death. Read the original article on Mashed. Bill Clinton has said that he believes the first female president of the U.S. will be elected soon but suggested that it may be easier for her to be a Republican candidate. In an interview with Tracy Smith on CBS Sunday Morning ahead of the launch of his book Citizen, the former president spoke candidly about his hopes for a Donald Trump conversion and the possibility of America electing a woman president. When asked by Smith about whether America was just not ready to elect a female president, Clinton replied: Maybe, I think in some ways, weve moved to the right. Its a reaction to all the turmoil. I think if Hillary been nominated in 2008, she would have walked in, just like Obama did. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think all these cultural battles that were fighting make it harder in some ways for a woman to run, he also said. Smith replied, So, you think it has more to do with party than gender? No. Although I think it would probably be easier for a conservative Republican woman to win. I mean, thats what Maggie Thatcher did but I still think well have a female president pretty soon, he added. Bill Clinton discusses his new book "Citizen," life after the White House, a Trump return, Democrats' 2024 missteps, and if America is ready for a female president. https://t.co/DR4XvReEp1 pic.twitter.com/dUMtExUvI3 CBS Sunday Morning (@CBSSunday) November 17, 2024 In the exchange, Smith asked Clinton whether he believed the event would happen in his lifetime. Oh yeah. Well, I dont know how long Im gonna live. Youre asking' an old man that question! he joked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I hope Im around for the next time. But now its President Trumps turn in the barrel. It depends on what he does and how it plays. Clinton also said he hoped Trump would change course in his approach to politics, with his cabinet appointments of the likes of Matt Gaetz and Pete Hegseth drawing criticism from those across the political spectrum. You know, somewhere along the way, [Trump will] have to think about whether, at this chapter of his life, he still thinks the most important thing is to have unquestionable domination, because thats not what a democracy is about. Smith responded, So youre saying President Trump might have a change of heart? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He might. I was raised in the Baptist Church, Clinton said. I believe in deathbed conversions. I think you cant give it up. But I think the rest of us just have to be diligent, watch the signs, and be willing to stand up for what we think is right, even if they take a piece out of our hide. In his new book, the former president praises Monica Lewinsky for speaking out about bullying. I wanted to be as helpful as I could to let her turn the page. I think she should be given a chance to build a life that is about her and the future, and not, you know, being whiplashed into an old story, he explained in his interview with CBS. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) The Birmingham Police Department is searching for a missing man who was reportedly last seen Friday. According to the BPD, 43-year-old Dalvinon Effinger was last seen on foot in the Southside area of the city wearing a black and white shirt and black sweatpants. Effinger is 6-foot-2 and weighs around 225 pounds. Dalvinon Effinger (Photo courtesy of the Birmingham Police Department) Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to contact the BPD at 205-328-9311 or dial 911. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. UPDATE: Apiffany Dyanjua Moore was found safe, according to the Birmingham Police Department on Sunday. ORIGINAL: Birmingham police trying to find missing 35-year-old woman BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) The Birmingham Police Department announced it is searching for a missing woman who was last seen Saturday and suffers from a medical condition affecting her judgment. Apiffany Dyanjua Moore, 35, was last seen walking in the 1100 block of 26th Street South. She was last observed wearing a beige sweater, blue jeans, yellow Gucci hat plus pink and beige Air Jordan shoes. Apiffany Dyanjua Moore (Photo courtesy of the Birmingham Police Department) Moore is 5-foot-7 and weighs around 115 pounds. Those with information on Moores whereabouts are urged to call the BPD at 205-328-9311 or 911. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. Three taxidermied penguins preside over Room 426 in Allwine Hall, standing atop a row of metal cabinets in the back corner. The Antarctic birds are locked in an everlasting staring contest with a stuffed hornbill whose craned neck protrudes from a bookcase holding a row of primate skulls. To the students who file into professor James Wilsons mammalogy class, these are ordinary sights. What grabs their attention on this Monday afternoon are the short stacks of paper spread neatly across the black lab tables. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today they are receiving an unusual homework assignment with straightforward instructions: fan out across the Omaha metro area and count squirrels. The squirrel census undertaken by Wilsons students at the University of Nebraska at Omaha has become an annual fall tradition over the past 15 years. Walking or driving slowly down their assigned streets, the aspiring biologists tally all the squirrels they see, whether black, red or dead. Their surveys have fueled Wilsons research and built on UNOs legacy as a hub of black squirrel scholarship. Nearly all of the squirrels living in the Omaha area belong to the same species the fox squirrel but a genetic mutation causes some to produce a lot of melanin, making their fur black rather than the usual reddish-brown, Wilson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Black squirrels exist in urban pockets across North America, but they have long enjoyed celebrity status in Council Bluffs, Iowa, where they make up roughly half of the local squirrel population. A black squirrel named Chipper serves as the citys mascot, and a decades-old ordinance makes it illegal to annoy, worry, maim, injure or kill the rodents. They used to be rare in Omaha, but Wilsons analysis found that the critters have become more plentiful and expanded their paw print westward. Humans and the bridges theyve built likely had something to do with that, he said. The long-running study has helped local biologists learn more about the regions multicolored squirrel population, while providing students meaningful fieldwork close to campus. Brett Andersen, who took Wilsons class in 2013, reflects on the assignment as his first taste of the hands-on research he aspired to do from a young age. Now, hes got a dream job working with at-risk species for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You never expect that to be the first thing thats going to kick-start your career, and yet here I am and I get to point back to that, Andersen said. Counting squirrels may seem like a trivial activity, but a decade down the road, having baseline information about the population could be really useful, Andersen said. He noted that monarch butterflies used to be plentiful, but theyre now one of the endangered species hes monitoring. Even with common things, its still valuable to look at how theyre doing, Andersen said. Becoming part of the scenery Peering out the passenger side window of a slow-moving sedan, Bella Madsen scanned front yards, trees and sidewalks for movement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres one! she excitedly exclaimed as a red squirrel darted across a west Omaha lawn. The senior biology major said taking a few hours to count squirrels helped her think more intentionally about the flourishing urban wildlife around her. By the end of her survey, Madsen tallied 24 squirrels only one of them black. But a surveyor wouldve been hard-pressed to find any black squirrels in what is now Omaha a few centuries ago. In 1843, John James Audubon encountered several black squirrels along the eastern edge of the Missouri River between St. Joseph, Missouri, and Council Bluffs, according to his journal entries. He never recorded seeing any along the west bank of the river. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The famous naturalist, known for his depictions and descriptions of American birds, misjudged the dark-colored rodent, believing it to be a distinct species. A colleague dubbed the animal Sciurus audubonii in honor of Audubons son, but biologists later tossed the name after discovering it was merely a different shade of the common fox squirrel. Ed Lueninghoener took a more scientific approach to studying the peculiar creatures. A meticulous spot count he performed in Council Bluffs as a UNO graduate student found a nearly even split between black and red squirrels, according to his 1973 masters thesis. His poll of conservation officers revealed that black squirrels were present in small numbers on the Nebraska side of the river. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wilson came across the thesis shortly after joining UNOs biology department in the late 2000s. The Southern California native had studied rodents for several years, and he thought it would be interesting to pick up where Lueninghoener left off. Plus, he saw black squirrels as super cute. Omaha is a great city, but it is eight hours from anywhere wild, Wilson said. Its a good local thing to do more research on. The first study Wilson authored on the areas squirrels in 2013 found that black squirrels made up about 7.5% of the total squirrel population in the northern half of Omaha and roughly 4.5% in the citys southern half. Wilson doesnt know exactly how black squirrels arrived in Nebraska, but he suspects humans played a central role in growing the population. The agile tree dwellers could easily cross the river on bridges or in tow with an unbeknownst driver. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hunters or black squirrel aficionados may have brought them over deliberately, he noted. Red and black squirrels also can breed together, sometimes creating offspring with mixed fur colors. The professor has observed black squirrels as far afield as Lincoln, and hes heard anecdotally there are some in other eastern Nebraska cities. The 2013 findings prompted Wilson to ponder why black squirrels were growing in proportion. Could they have some kind of biological advantage over their red counterparts? UNO grad student Amanda Ciurej measured the surface temperature of Omaha squirrels with an infrared thermal gun to see whether having light-absorbing dark fur helped the black ones stay warm in chilly weather. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 2019 study co-authored by Ciurej found that black squirrels may have a slight winter thermal advantage over red ones, allowing them to conserve energy and gain foraging time in colder months. Wilson hopes to turn the last decade of student-collected data into a follow-up paper. He expects to find a continued trend of black squirrels expanding in Omaha. He intends to focus further squirrel studies on how people perceive and interact with the animals. He wonders whether humans give preferential treatment to black squirrels because they view them as special or cute. A few years ago, Wilson asked students to start recording the color of any dead squirrels they came across during their surveys. That data could help determine whether drivers are more likely to avoid running over black squirrels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes also curious about whether humans are more inclined to feed black squirrels that show up in their neighborhood. Andrew Hubbard admires the black squirrels in his backyard as a fascinating novelty, but hes an equal-opportunity feeder. I love all our squirrel babies, he said. The Millard resident started giving peanuts to the squirrels a dozen years ago. He switched to trail mix when his bushy-tailed congregation grew. But Hubbards squirrel obsession really ramped up during the COVID-19 pandemic when he began buying 3-pound bags of walnuts at Costco and watching them for hours on end at the kitchen window. The Union Pacific consultant now gets 5-10 regular diners on his patio every morning. (Wildlife experts generally discourage feeding squirrels and other wild animals. Hubbard said he sometimes worries about his impact on the ecosystem.) Even though Hubbard feeds squirrels indiscriminately, he thinks Wilsons question about black squirrel favoritism is valid, noting that hunters might not kill an albino deer because of its rare beauty. One black squirrel has burrowed deeper into Hubbards heart than all the others but not because of his color. Seemingly the runt of the litter, he started coming around to eat as a kit in 2021. Hubbard noticed he was missing a foot and named him KickAss a reference to the saying busy as a one legged man in an ass-kicking contest. KickAss never grew to the size of his comrades, and he lost patches of fur twice a year due to some kind of mange or flea infestation, Hubbard suspects. The other squirrels picked on him, often nipping at his tail. Despite his misfortune, KickAss persevered. But now Hubbard hasnt seen his friend in a few months. He fears KickAss may have crossed the squirrel rainbow bridge. Hes just so resilient. It sounds so stupid to say this, but for a squirrel, hes like so inspiring, Hubbard said. I miss him a lot. I keep praying that hell come back around. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. EASTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) A 25-year-old Blandford man drowned Saturday while kayaking on Lower Mill Pond in Easthampton. Chamber of Greater Easthampton holds annual sheLEADS Women`s Conference at HCC According to the Northwestern DAs Office, Easthampton emergency services received a 911 call at 2:45 p.m. reporting a kayaker in distress. Witnesses told authorities that two people entered the water in an attempt to save the man but were unable to reach him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Hampden County Regional Dive Team and Massachusetts State Police Dive Team worked to recover the man, who was found dead at 5:15 p.m. Another kayaker who was with him at the time of the incident was not injured. Authorities do not suspect foul play, but the cause of death will be determined by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. The investigation remains ongoing. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. By Tom Balmforth and Dan Peleschuk KYIV (Reuters) -Russia unleashed its largest air strike on Ukraine in almost three months on Sunday, launching 120 missiles and 90 drones that killed at least seven people and caused severe damage to the power system, officials said. Ukrainians had been bracing for weeks for a renewed Russian attack on an already hobbled energy system, fearing long winter blackouts and mounting psychological pressure almost 1,000 days after Russia launched its full-scale invasion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The strikes, which caused numerous power cuts, came at a time when the impending U.S. presidency of Donald Trump, who has pledged to end the war without saying how, has raised the prospect of a push for negotiations. Air defences could be heard engaging drones over the capital Kyiv in the night, and a series of powerful blasts boomed across the city centre during the missile attack. Residents huddled in underground metro stations, wrapped in winter coats. "Severe damage to Ukraine's energy system, including to DTEK power stations. These attacks again highlight Ukraine's need for additional air defence systems from our allies," said Maxim Timchenko, CEO of DTEK, Ukraine's largest private power company. The extent of the damage was hard to assess. After repeated Russian attacks on the power grid, officials reveal little detailed information about the outcome of strikes and the state of the network. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials confirmed damage to "critical infrastructure" or power cuts in regions from Volyn, Rivne, Lviv in the west to Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhzhia in the southeast. DTEK imposed emergency power cuts in the southern Odesa region, but had lifted them in three other regions by late morning. Emergency work was ongoing in the Odesa, Rivne and Volyn regions, national grid operator Ukrenergo said. Russia's defence ministry said it had launched a massive strike on energy facilities that supply Ukraine's military-industrial complex. "The enemy's target was our energy infrastructure across Ukraine," President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UKRAINE NERVOUS ABOUT WESTERN DIPLOMACY Kyiv's air force said it had destroyed 104 of the incoming 120 missiles and shot down 42 drones. Another 41 disappeared from radar, it said. At least seven people were killed, in the regions of Lviv, Mykolaiv, Odesa and Dnipropetrovsk, authorities said. Moldovan Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popsoi said Russian missiles and drones had violated Moldovan airspace during the attack. NATO member Poland, which also borders Ukraine, said it had scrambled its air force as a precaution. Russia last launched a major barrage at Kyiv on Aug. 26, when officials said it had fired more than 200 drones and missiles at targets across Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its latest onslaught piles more pressure on Ukraine as Moscow's troops notch up their fastest battlefield gains in the east since 2022 in their effort to seize the entire industrial Donbas region. Ukrainian troops are meanwhile trying to hold an area of land that they seized in Russia's Kursk region in August, something Kyiv has said could one day be a bargaining chip. Sybiha said the strike appeared to be Moscow's "true response" to leaders contacting President Vladimir Putin, an apparent swipe at German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who called the Russian leader on Friday for the first time in two years. Though Scholz urged Putin to pull out his troops, which occupy a fifth of Ukraine, Kyiv bridled at a call that it said reduced Putin's isolation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk echoed Sybiha: "The attack last night, one of the biggest in this war, has proved that telephone diplomacy cannot replace real support from the whole West for Ukraine. The next weeks will be decisive, not only for the war itself, but also for our future." (Reporting by Pavel Polityuk, Tom Balmforth, Valentyn Ogirenko in Kyiv; additional reporting by Barbara Erling; Writing by Lidia Kelly and Tom Balmforth;Editing by William Mallard, Frances Kerry and Kevin Liffey) DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) Residents packed into an art gallery for a book signing to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Air Force Museum Saturday. To commemorate the recent anniversary of the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force in 2023, local authors and photographers came together for the second edition of American Eagles, a book that details the history of the museum through stories and pictures. Co-authors Dan Patterson, Ty Greenlees and Clinton Terry visited Sugarcreek Photography Gallery in Bellbrook to hold a book signing and talk about the book thats not just close to their hearts but also deeply tied to the history of Dayton. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oftentimes, our local public doesnt know much about the museum, and, you know, this is of our ways for local folks who are trying to understand our artifacts here on display, said Ty Greenlees, co-author and photographer. It took the authors two years to put the book together. American Eagles features a mix of photography of planes inside the museum and fascinating stories. Greenlees and Patterson, who are both aviation enthusiasts, took the photographs for the book. They say it was a magical experience to bring the Air Force Museums rich history to life. We had access to the museums hydraulic lifts, so we could get way up above the airplanes and did that to give the reader of the book a perspective they dont often see, said Dan Patterson, co-author and photographer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We came up with what we called a mountain of light, which really helped us to feature all of the curves and the shapes and all the materials used to build those aircrafts, said Greenlees. Historian Clinton Terry helped to write the book. He says its all about helping readers connect with museum artifacts and planes on a deeper level. What happened in World War II, what happened in Korea, in Vietnam. They are so much more than just photographs, knowing that theres real life experiences that is there with all of it, said Clinton Terry, co-author and historian. For someone like Jeff Smith, who served in the U.S. Air Force for 24 years, hosting the book signing was personal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Being from Dayton is a pretty special place to call home, said Jeff Smith, co-owner of Sugarcreek Photo Gallery. Celebrating aviation photography in the Air Force Museum, which is really what got me into the Air Force is really neat, and celebrating that as well. The new second edition of American Eagles is available at the Air Force Museum gift shop and on Amazon. Click here to learn more. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. Both directions on the Ship Canal Bridge reopened after a crash involving multiple cars early Sunday morning, according to the Washington State Department of Transportation. James Poling, a spokesperson with WSDOT, said both directions are open at the Ship Canal Bridge after two crashes early Sunday morning. Northbound Interstate 5 was temporarily closed, and the southbound lanes were partially blocked due to the crash, causing a back-up. WSDOT said around 4 a.m. Sunday, all lanes of northbound Interstate 5 were blocked north of State Route 520 because of a crash on the Ship Canal Bridge. The left three lanes of southbound I-5 were closed at the same location on the Ship Canal Bridge because of a crash that took place shortly after the northbound crash happened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a crash report, two cars were traveling northbound on I-5 on the bridge in lane three, when one car struck another one and stopped in traffic. Thats when another car tried to move around them and struck another car, causing a four-car chain reaction. The road was blocked for about four hours. Drivers who traveled downtown around 5 a.m. were expected to find alternative routes and plan for delays. The suggested routes included State Route 520 (toll across Lake Washington) or State Route 99 across the Ship Canal. People who traveled through the Seattle metro from the south were advised to use I-405 around the east side of Lake Washington or the SR 99 tunnel (toll) through downtown Seattle. The lanes reported as of 7 a.m. Sunday. 5:10 a.m. update: For anyone just waking up or about to travel north from downtown Seattle, NB I-5 remains closed at the Ship Canal Bridge because of a significant collision. Please plan alternate routes such as SR 99 Aurora Bridge or SR 520 (toll bridge across Lake Washington) https://t.co/fvFQnQGmkL pic.twitter.com/JUrBUrV0ap WSDOT Traffic (@wsdot_traffic) November 17, 2024 BOUNTIFUL, Utah (ABC4) A man was taken into custody Sunday morning after the abduction of a 12-year-old Bountiful girl ended in a crash during police pursuit, according to Bountiful Police. At around 12:20 a.m. on Nov. 17, police responded to a child abduction near 400 West 200 North in Bountiful. Arriving at the scene, officers learned that a 12-year-old girl had allegedly been taken by a man in his 20s. Family members of the girl had confronted the man, but he fled in a 2011 Chevrolet Camaro with no visible license plate, a black hood, and a social media handle sticker on the back fin of the vehicle, a press release from Bountiful Police states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LDS Church to enter non-binding mediation with Texas town over temple The police department then activated the Davis County Child Abduction Response Team and began an investigation into the incident. Shortly after 8 a.m. Sunday morning, officers found a car matching the description of the Camaro driving in the area of the abduction. The suspect began to drive erratically when officers began following, according to the release, and police initiated a pursuit. The suspect drove onto I-15 at a high rate of speed before taking I-215 Westbound. While trying to navigate an overpass, the suspect ran into the back of a Woods Cross police vehicle, causing both cars to come to a stop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man was taken into custody after the crash. Police found a Glock 17 handgun on the driver-side floorboard. The 12-year-old girl was uninjured in the crash, but was taken to a local hospital for evaluation. The Woods Cross officer sustained non-life-threatening injuries in the crash and was also taken to a local hospital. Police are working to positively identify the suspect before releasing more information. The Bountiful Police Department extends appreciation to all of the agencies who assisted in this investigation, the release states. No further information is available at this time. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. A prominent Malian political figure faces detention following public criticism of neighboring Burkina Fasos military leadership, a fact highlighting growing tensions within West Africas military-governed nations. Issa Kaou NDjim, a former supporter of Malis current military regime, was arrested for allegedly insulting a foreign head of state after questioning Burkina Fasos September coup attempt claims. The incident extends beyond individual prosecution, as media outlets face scrutiny, with Joliba TV Newss director summoned for questioning. NDjims arrest reflects escalating restrictions on political dissent across the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), comprising Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. NDjim, previously serving as vice president of Malis transitional legislative body, had recently advocated for returning to electoral democracy. His arrest follows a pattern of government action against opposition voices, including his previous six-month sentence for social media criticism in 2021. The region faces mounting security challenges, with analysts reporting increased extremist attacks while government forces face accusations of civilian targeting and political suppression. The situation has particularly affected journalists and opposition figures, with eleven politicians and various activists detained in June. This latest arrest underscores broader concerns about democratic regression within the AES nations, where military governments seized power through coups, citing security concerns. International human rights organizations have called for NDjims immediate release. (WTAJ) Its the most wonderful time of the year, as they say, and with the holidays comes Breakfast with Santa. Many volunteer fire departments in local communities invite residents every year to have breakfast with Santa to help spread some holiday cheer. In addition to a homecooked breakfast, kids can take their photo with and meet the jolly bearded man himself. Breakfast with Santa isnt exclusive to fire departments as a number of organizations and even schools and businesses have joined in on the festivities over the years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Below is where you can find Breakfast With Santa in the local area. Click the links for more information on any event. Its important to note that many events require tickets or an RSVP by a certain date. If you are part of Breakfast with Santa and would like your event added to our list, email information to DigitalNews@wtajtv.com. Bedford County Bedford County Chamber of Commerce Everett: Saturday, Dec. 14 from 9 to 10 a.m. East St. Clairs Township Building New Paris: Saturday, Dec. 7 from 9 to 11 a.m. Blair County Allegheny Township Volunteer Fire Department Duncansville: Sunday, Dec. 15 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Claysburg Kimmel Elementary Claysburg: Saturday, Dec. 14 beginning at 9 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Overflow Church Altoona: Saturday, Dec. 14 beginning at 9 a.m. Phoenix Volunteer Fire Company Hollidaysburg: Saturday, Dec. 14 from 9 to 11 a.m. Cambria County Community of Lilly Lilly: Saturday, Nov. 30 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Cresson American Legion Cresson: Sunday, Dec. 1 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Gallitzin Fire Company Gallitzin: Sunday, Dec. 15 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. South Fork Volunteer Fire Company South Fork: Saturday, Dec. 7 from 8 to 11 a.m. Summerhill Township Volunteer Fire Company Beaverdale: Saturday, Dec. 14 from 9 to 11 a.m. Cameron County No information available at this time. Centre County No information available at this time. Clearfield County Gethsemane United Methodist Church Allport: Saturday, Dec. 7 beginning at 9 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Karthaus Volunteer Fire Company Karthaus: Sunday, Dec 8 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Elk County No information available at this time. Huntingdon County Camp Golden Pond Petersburg: Saturday, Dec. 7, and Sunday, Dec. 8 (three time options each day) Southern Huntingdon County Cheer Boosters Three Springs: Saturday, Dec. 14 beginning at 9 a.m. Jefferson County No information available at this time. Somerset County Somerset Masonic Temple Assoc. Somerset: Saturday, Dec. 14 from 9 to 11 a.m. If you are part of Breakfast with Santa and would like your event added to our list, email information to DigitalNews@wtajtv.com. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com. Too much light at night, and not enough light in the day, could increase your risk of dying earlier than you otherwise would a reminder of the importance of sleep health and of following the nudgings of our circadian rhythms. From working night shifts or staying up late watching television, to being hidden away in offices or homes during the day, the habits and routines of modern life tend to disrupt a more natural relationship with light and dark. And that's potentially deadly, according to the international team of researchers behind the new study. It adds to what we already know about the relationship between artificial light and a variety of health risks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Exposure to brighter nights and darker days can disrupt our circadian rhythms, a disruption that is known to lead to various health issues including diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, mental health issues and increase the risk of death," says the study's senior author and sleep scientist Sean Cain, from Flinders University in Australia. "These new insights into the potential adverse impact of light have shown us just how important personal light exposure patterns are for your health." Natural daylight might just prolong your life. ( Anne Morris/Unsplash The researchers looked at records in a UK research database, pulling out information on 88,905 people who had worn light sensor trackers for a week, with their health then followed for around eight years. Here are the raw stats: exposure to high levels of light at night was linked to a 2134 percent increased risk of death, while exposure to high levels of daylight during the day was linked to a 1734 percent lower risk of death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A study like this isn't enough to prove direct cause and effect there are too many other potential contributing factors to consider but the association is strong enough to suggest light cycles are related in some way to health and mortality rate. "Protection of lighting environments may be especially important in those at risk for both circadian disruption and mortality, such as in intensive care or aged-care settings," says lead author and sleep scientist Daniel Windred, from Flinders University. Further computer modeling showed that the strength and rhythm of the participants' circadian rhythms likely influenced by light exposure patterns was also related to mortality rate, backing up the idea that it's the disruption to the body's natural flow that increases the risk of serious disease, and from there an earlier death. While it's disconcerting to learn that this aspect of our modern lifestyles could be ushering us into an early grave, the good news is that the problem isn't too difficult to address: getting more daylight and avoiding light at night is something we can all try. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our findings clearly show that avoiding night light and seeking daylight may promote optimal health and longevity, and this recommendation is easy, accessible and cost-effective," says sleep scientist Andrew Phillips, from Flinders University. The research has been published in PNAS. Related News LONDON (AP) British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Sunday that he has no plan to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin as he pledged support for Ukraine as the U.K.s top priority at this weeks G20 summit. Speaking with reporters on the way to the meeting in Brazil, Starmer said he wouldnt speak to Putin as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz did on Friday. The call between the two leaders, which the Kremlin said was initiated by Germany, was the first publicly announced conversation between Putin and a major head of a Western power in almost two years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized the call and said it would only make Russia less isolated. Ukraine's allies fear that the election of President-elect Donald Trump, who has questioned U.S. aid sent to Kyiv and spoken favorably about Putin, could alter support from Washington, its biggest backer Starmer said allies have to double down now to support Ukraine for as long as it takes. We are coming up to the 1,000th day of this conflict on Tuesday, Starmer said. Thats 1,000 days of Russian aggression, 1,000 days of huge impact and sacrifice in relation to the Ukrainian people and recently weve seen the addition of North Korean troops working with Russians which does have serious implications. The U.K. has committed 12.8 billion pounds ($16.15 billion) in aid to Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A stabbing in a Kerns neighborhood bar left one man seriously wounded and another man sitting in the Multnomah County Jail. The incident just before midnight Friday night happened inside the bar near 2600 NE Sandy Boulevard, Portland police said. The victim was hit in the neck by a glass which broke, causing serious injuries. He was rushed by ambulance to a nearby hospital for treatment and is expected to recover, authorities said. Elephants Deli truck stolen, worker jumps off; 1 arrested Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect, later identified as Abraham Bravo, was spotted about two blocks west of the bar and placed under arrest. The 28-year-old was booked for second-degree assault and had an outstanding arrest warrant. Witnesses to the incident may have left the bar before police arrived. Investigators continue to look into the case and anyone with information is asked to call Portland police. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WPRI) A brush and building fire is under investigation by the North Kingstown Fire Department. According to Battalion Chief William Maccarone, they received multiple calls just before 10 a.m. for a report of a brush fire at the rear of the Travel Inn on Post Road. When they arrived, crews found that the fire was spreading to the building. There was also damage to two of the units inside of the inn, in addition to the outside of the building. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One resided was treated a the scene for minor injuries. No firefighters were injured. Maccarone said that with the dry conditions, the danger for brush fires are extremely high, and with the leaves on the ground and windy, fire can spread quite quickly. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) Firefighters battled a fire at a triple-decker home in Providence Saturday afternoon. A brush fire on Shipyard Street extended to the house on Georgia Avenue, according to a city spokesperson, eventually getting to all three floors. The front of the home suffered heavy damage, and a viewer-submitted video showed flames shooting out the first floor. Nobody inside the home during the fire suffered any injuries, the spokesperson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NEXT: Providence club temporarily shut down after stabbing Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. STOYSTOWN, Pa. State police in Somerset are investigating a possible burglary at a Shade Township residence. The incident occurred at a Blough Road home Oct. 17, and was described as an entry into the structure by force. State police are still investigating, investigators said in a media release Saturday. SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) Caddo Parish Sheriffs Office (CPSO) shared that at approximately 3:20 p.m., a missing skydiver was found deceased a couple of miles from the intended landing location. Caddo deputies reported they were searching for an Asian man who was last seen skydiving in the Gilliam area. At 1:25 p.m., CPSO received a report from Gilliam Airport about a missing skydiver. Former Bossier City PIO Traci Ponder passes away Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Upon arrival, deputies learned that the skydivers parachute had failed to deploy. The individual was wearing an orange wingsuit at the time of the incident. CPSO states the search for the skydiver involves the Caddo Sheriffs Office, Life Air Rescue, North Caddo Medical Center, the Wildlife and Fisheries Department, and the Caddo Fire District. This is an ongoing investigation, and the article will be updated when more information is available. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com. CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) A member of the Inglewood Family Gangster Bloods has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after being caught smuggling 46 kilograms of methamphetamine through Charlotte-Douglas International Airport, officials say. 47-year-old Rashad Jamal Blanchard of Los Angeles was also sentenced to five years of supervised release upon completion of his prison term. According to court documents and proceedings, the incident occurred on February 1, 2023. Homeland Security Investigationss Queen City Regional Border Security Task Force searched Blanchards suitcases after he boarded a flight from Los Angeles to Charlotte and checked four suitcases. Queen City News is tracking CRIME in your area >> Latest stories here A search of three of the suitcases revealed that each contained multiple black vacuum-sealed packages that contained methamphetamine wrapped in comforters. The three suitcases contained a total of 34.6 kilograms of meth. Court records show that Blanchards fourth suitcase had been picked up from the airports baggage claim by another individual who had then driven off in a vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Law enforcement tracked down the vehicle and retrieved the fourth suitcase, which contained an additional 11.4 kilograms of meth, making it a total of 46 kilograms smuggled through the airport. According to court documents, Blanchard has an extensive criminal record in four states North Carolina, California, Florida and Virginia. His prior felony convictions include carjacking and bank robbery. When he was arrested in Charlotte, he was on probation for the bank robbery conviction. He was also on bond pending prosecution in California, where he was charged for allegedly possessing nearly four pounds of meth and shooting at an individual during a dispute. On November 28, 2023, Blanchard pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute meth. He is currently in federal custody. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. No one knows who will be targeted: N.J.s Indian community fears ICE raids Undocumented Indian immigrants, some of whom have overstayed their visas, are anxious about the possibility of being detained and deported by ICE. A pioneering southern Arizona winery uncorked a new wine earlier this month in collaboration with the University of Arizona, celebrating the universitys contributions to the wine industry and Tucsons rich history. Callaghan Vineyards launched its Arizona La Osa 2019 on Nov. 2, an ode to the familys winemaking history and to the University of Arizonas critical role in developing Arizonas wine industry. It's a way to also publicize the fact that there is a vibrant Arizona wine industry, said Kent Callaghan, who owns the winery. It's our wine, but it's also representative of the whole industry, and it's a great way to advertise the industry as a whole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The family-run winery, owned by Lisa and Kent Callaghan, was established in 1990 by Kent and his parents and has since received numerous accolades. Its wines have also been served at the White House on four occasions. The Arizona La Osa is a 2019 Grenache aged 18 months in neutral 500-liter puncheons and bottled unfiltered. The red wine was recently given a score of 92/100 by the Purely Domestic Wine Report and won a Silver Medal in the San Francisco Chronicle Competition. The wines name honors Lisas great-grandfather, J.C. Kinney. Kinney was a major cattle rancher and the primary owner of the La Osa Livestock Company. He was also a founding member of the first annual Fiesta De Los Vaqueros. Its a classic Western story. He became a cattle rancher. He started a bank. He ran for governor, Lisa said. University of Arizona collaborates with the Callaghans Lisa Callaghan first heard about the opportunity to collaborate with the university from her good friend who worked for the school's marketing department. She told Lisa about the universitys licensing arm, which includes an option for local businesses called Old Main Mercado. To become a member, licensees must be local businesses in Southern Arizona that create niche, shelf-stable products that connect people with the University of Arizona. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With Lisa and Kents connection to the university Lisa has four generations of Wildcats in her family and Kent has two and as Tucson natives, they were the perfect candidates to become members. While members develop their products, the university offers assistance with design work and marketing materials. Collective members pay a $500 fee in the first year of the contract and 20% of gross sales of the products in the following years. Other products licensed through the universitys Old Main Mercado licensing arm include a hot sauce by Si Charro, the parent company of El Charro Cafe, and a range of other restaurants, a Pueblo Vida beer, a line of candles by CICADA launching in the Spring of 2025, and more. The Callaghans worked with a graphic designer from the university's team to design their label, an illustrated timeline outlining Kinneys accomplishments and the history of Arizona winemaking. The label includes lassoing cowboys, a vintage cartoon of the universitys wildcat mascot in cowboy boots and spurs, and university branding. The two cowboy drawings on the label have historical meaning for the Callaghans. They were originally designed on envelopes sent to Kinney by Native American artist Hart Merriam Schultz, who called himself Lone Wolf. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Callaghan Vineyards has 180 cases of wine available. The Arizona La Osa can be purchased in Phoenix, Tucson, and Callaghan Vineyards. In Phoenix, the wine can be found at GenuWine. In Tucson, it can be found at the Feast Restaurant, Parish Restaurant, Tap and Bottle, Westbound, Time Market, the Arizona Wine Collective, and Plaza Liquors. Arizona La Osa celebrates Arizona's winemaking history Arizonas wine industry, although smaller than the well-known wine regions like California and France, has made a good name for itself. Wine was first cultivated in Arizona when the Spaniards arrived and established missions and vineyards. "If you're going to have a Catholic church, you have to have wines, said Shane Burgess, the vice president of UA's Division of Agriculture, Life and Veterinary Sciences, and Cooperative Extension. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the Prohibition era in the 1900s, commercial wine production ceased and was replaced with speakeasies, illegal stills and bootleggers, according to the Journal of Arizona History. It wasnt until the 1970s that the wine industry started again, thanks to Gordon Dutt, whose name is included on the label of the Arizona La Osa. As a soil expert at the University of Arizona, Dutt studied the impacts of water quality on soil and crops. Grapes were a good crop to study because they needed relatively little water. In terms of amount of money per drop of water, wine is the most efficient crop we grow in Arizona, Burgess said. After leaving the university, Dutt opened the states first commercial vineyard, Sonoita Vineyards, which is still open and run by his granddaughter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He thought Sonoita was the best wine-growing area in the state, Burgess said. Where to taste the best wines in the state Arizona has more than 120 wineries dotting the state's landscapes. The state's three designated grape-growing regions, or American Viticultural Areas, include Sonoita-Elgin and Willcox in southern Arizona and the Verde Valley in northern Arizona. Winemaking areas in southern Arizona, like Sonoita-Elgin and Willcox, are located at a higher altitude. The areas heavy rains, paired with cooler nights and warmer days, make for great winemaking. The Verde Valley American Viticultural Ara is in Yavapai County. Famous wineries can be found along the Verde Valley Wine Trail, which invites wine enthusiasts to savor the distinct flavors of northern Arizona wine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other vineyards and wineries exist throughout the state at the bases of mountains and in valleys, including Chino Valley, Young, Kingman, Williams and Portal, according to the Arizona Wine Growers Association. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Callaghan Vineyards, University of Arizona highlights Tucson history Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said that Russia's latest attack against Ukraine proved the ineffectiveness of telephone diplomacy. Source: Donald Tusk on Twitter (X), as reported by European Pravda Details: The Prime Minister of Poland claims that telephone diplomacy will not replace the real support of Ukraine from the whole West. Quote: "No-one will stop Putin with phone calls. The attack last night, one of the biggest in this war, has proved that telephone diplomacy cannot replace real support from the whole West for Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The next weeks will be decisive, not only for the war itself, but also for our future," Tusk said. On the night of 16-17 November, Russian forces launched a combined missile and drone attack on Ukraine's energy sector facilities with 210 missiles and UAVs on the night of 16-17 November. Ukrainian air defence units have destroyed 144 of them. Moldovan President Maia Sandu also strongly condemned Russia's latest large-scale attack on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stressed that Russia's latest large-scale missile attack on Ukraine is war criminal Vladimir Putin's response to those who have called or visited him recently. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the afternoon of 15 November, it was reported that Scholz had spoken to Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin for the first time in two years. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy labelled the call a "Pandora's box". Support UP or become our patron! As Donald Trump rolled out his Cabinet choices last week, the strategy that consigliere Steve Bannon described during the president-elect's first term naturally popped to mind: Flood the zone with s. Overwhelm the media, the public and political opponents, including fellow Republicans, so fully that they cant process it all, and some crap gets by. That may well be the case for the emerging Cabinet. Bipartisan alarm greeted news that former Reps. Matt Gaetz and Tulsi Gabbard, Fox News provocateur Pete Hegseth and anti-vaxxer Robert F. Kennedy Jr. are Trumps selections to take charge of the nations law enforcement, intelligence, defense and healthcare programs, respectively. Each would likely be disqualified in normal times, given damning details in their bios. Yet Trump is flooding the zone. Amid the deluge, however, lets not lose sight of where the outrage belongs: on the man who picked them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That Trump would choose such candidates for essential roles confirms his bad judgment, and his own unfitness for office. But the fact that these nominees were among his earliest picks underscores something more: His priority as president is indeed retribution . Trump could have first nominated people to head the Treasury Department and other agencies responsible for the issue that probably more than any other got him elected: the economy. But, no. Trumps top aim is revenge against the agencies that he baselessly believes wronged him when he held office before. The Justice Department, for its investigations of his 2016 campaigns connivances with Russia, his attempts to overturn the 2020 election and his swiping of government secrets, and for his past appointees refusals to be accomplices in his 2020 plot to keep power. Intelligence agencies, for finding that Russia tried to help get him elected in 2016. The Defense Department, because its civilian and military leaders resisted his calls to shoot protesters in 2020 and to help him subvert the 2020 election. And not least, the Department of Health and Human Services, for putting science and public health before his 2020 reelection politics and rejecting his wacky nostrums during the pandemic. In condemning Trumps choice for attorney general, the conservative Wall Street Journal editorial board called Gaetz a performer and provocateur and a nominee for those who want the law used for political revenge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My, who could that be? Just say it: Trump. From Trumps perspective, who would be better able to turn the DOJ into Trump LLC than the Florida Man? For Gaetz, being attorney general would be a retribution twofer, given that Justice also long investigated him, for alleged sex trafficking and sex with a minor, among other things, and reportedly declined to charge him only because of witnesses credibility issues. (The House Ethics Committee then reopened its own wide-ranging probe of Gaetz, which he short-circuited last week by resigning from Congress.) As a Trump advisor approvingly told the Bulwark last week, other AG wannabes talked about the law and Constitution, but Gaetz was the only one who said he'd cut "[expletive] heads. Then there are the other avengers that Trump has in mind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As director of national intelligence, he wants Gabbard, the former Democratic House member turned MAGA warrior known best as an apologist for dictators Vladimir Putin of Russia and Bashar Assad of Syria (but then, so is Trump). Shes been called our girlfriend Tulsi and a Russian agent on state-controlled Russian TV . An opponent of U.S. aid to Ukraine (again, like Trump), Gabbard posted a video that provoked Sen. Mitt Romney to accuse her of parroting false Russian propaganda and to rage, Her treasonous lies may well cost lives. Shes called for leniency toward intelligence leakers Julian Assange and Edward Snowden. Hegseths qualifications to run the Pentagon are limited to his experience as an Army National Guard veteran of the Afghanistan conflict, and fealty to Trump. His long record of on-air provocations includes support for alleged U.S. war criminals and opposition to women in the military. I would ask him, Where do you think I lost my legs? In a bar fight? said Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth of Illinois, an Iraq war veteran. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, she could get a chance if there is a confirmation hearing. Its easy to believe that Hegseth wouldnt shy from ordering the military to fire on protesters if Trump so desires, and it's unlikely he'd have qualms about firing the military officers on a list that Trumps transition team reportedly is compiling, including Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Charles Q. Brown, a Biden appointee. Hegseth once suggested Brown got the job because he is a Black man. A complication for Hegseth: reports of an alleged sexual assault in Monterey, Calif., in 2017, which he has denied. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And who better to go wild on food and drug policy, in Trumps words, than Kennedy, who has said, There is no vaccine that is safe and effective. As secretary of Health and Human Services, Kennedy would have jurisdiction over the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which Trump came to consider his nemesis during the pandemic, and the Food and Drug Administration. Kennedy tweeted in October that folks at the FDA should 1. Preserve your records, and 2. Pack your bags. The widely loathed Gaetz is the most likely to fail muster, either rejected next year in a new, Republican-controlled Senate or forced to withdraw beforehand amid the public backlash. Thats no sure thing, considering Republicans sycophancy and Trumps obstinacy. Given the quality of such nominees, its no wonder that Trump, postelection, demanded that Republican senators forfeit their constitutional advice and consent power . If they dont, and the Senate actually dooms his avengers, well, Trump will just take further retribution: on them. This is what they voted for, after all. @jackiekcalmes If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Campaigners have warned that farmers have nothing to lose amid fears that some in the industry will disrupt food supplies in protest over the Governments inheritance tax raid. Ministers are drawing up contingency plans to keep supermarket shelves stocked after militant landowners threatened a strike on food deliveries. Industry officials are closely monitoring the situation and are expected to discuss the potential impact in meetings with the Government this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It comes as up to 20,000 farmers prepare to stage a rally outside Parliament on Tuesday to protest against the 20 per cent levy on inherited agricultural land over 1 million. Campaigners warned on Sunday night that unless the Government strikes a deal, radical elements may resort to a blockade of ports, airports and railway lines. However, Steve Reed, the Environment Secretary, insisted in an article for The Telegraph that there would be no about-turn on the policy and said farmers should check the facts. Another minister urged farmers to calm down, while a third Labour MP suggested that those who were unhappy had been brainwashed into supporting large landowners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sir Keir Starmer, who is in Brazil for a summit with world leaders, stressed that the Budget included a record 5 billion commitment for farming. Speaking to reporters on a flight to Rio de Janeiro, he said: Obviously, theres an issue around inheritance tax and I do understand the concern. But for a typical case, which is parents with a farm they want to pass on to one of their children, by the time youve taken into account not only the exemption for the farm property itself, but also the exemption for spouse to spouse, then parent to child, its 3 million before any inheritance tax will be payable. Thats why I am absolutely confident the vast majority of farms and farmers will not be affected by this. The National Farmers Union (NFU) has publicly urged its members not to go on strike but some farmers are threatening to do so anyway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The threat has raised concerns about empty supermarket shelves this winter and risks bringing back memories of disruption last seen at the start of the Covid pandemic when people stockpiled food at home. Steve Reed, the Environment Secretary, said farmers should check the facts - Wiktor Szymanowicz/Future Publishing Clive Bailye, one of the organisers of Tuesdays protest, said he would not condone direct action but warned some farmers could take matters into their own hands. The arable farmer from Staffordshire said: We have people now where they feel like they have nothing to lose, this is the final straw. They dont care if they go to prison. Thats what Im hearing from some farmers. If they really got their act together, they could block entire train tracks and ports. English farmers are a bit more Queensberry Rules than the French, they dont want to punish the public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I could see things like ports or airports being disrupted if the Government really does dig in, that is what we are going to see over the winter. He added: Theres no doubt that it is being talked about. Theyve got TVs, theyve got newspapers and theyve seen what has happened in France, Germany and the Netherlands recently and they saw that kind of economic blackmail they did see a government U-turn. On Sunday, Louise Haigh, the Transport Secretary, said the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs would be setting out contingency plans for the winter and summer, and would ensure food security is treated as the priority it deserves to be. Clive Bailye, one of the organisers of Tuesdays rally in Westminster, warned some farmers could take matters into their own hands. - Lorne Campbell/Guzelian A Government source said: As any responsible Government would, we would rightly prepare for a range of scenarios to ensure that consumers are not affected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Supermarkets and food suppliers are keeping a close watch on the situation. Sainsburys said it was not anticipating issues at this stage but were monitoring the situation closely. Andrew Opie, director of food and sustainability at the British Retail Consortium, said: Retailers are closely monitoring the impact of the potential interventions, including strikes, but are adept at dealing with disruption and are working hard to ensure customers arent impacted. Tax exemption being exploited Writing for The Telegraph, Mr Reed acknowledged the tax change could cause uncertainty, but added: If farmers check the facts theyll see this change is fair and proportionate for everyone. He said the inheritance tax exemption for agricultural land had been exploited by wealthy people from non-farming backgrounds, claiming they had been buying up such land to avoid the levy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Reed said: This has forced up rural land prices, robbing young farmers of the dream of owning their own farm. Around 40 per cent of the value of this tax loophole has gone to just 7 per cent of land owners. Its become the most effective way for the super-rich to avoid paying their inheritance tax and its costing other taxpayers a whopping 200 million a year. This is money that should be invested in our schools, health services, transport and other public services that farmers and families in rural communities rely on. This isnt fair, so Labour is asking rich estates and the most valuable farms to pay their share. Oliver Ryan, another Labour MP, suggested that opponents of the tax raid were wrong. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The MP for Burnley told a critic of the policy on X that he was being gaslit or brainwashed by people who own huge swathes of land. Sir Keir Starmer and his ministers have defended the plans - Stefan Rousseau/PA Labour pointed to new research by estate agents Strutt and Parker which showed that non-farmers bought more than half 56 per cent of all farmland for sale last year and were able to spend at least 60 per cent more on purchases than farmers did. Daniel Zeichner, the farming minister, told BBC Politics East: I urge people to look calmly at the detail and I think they will find that the vast majority will be fine. However, Cllr Tim Taylor, leader of Pro Farmers United, who besieged the Welsh Labour conference on Saturday, said farmers were going to escalate big time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said: Daniel Zeichner comes from Cambridge and he knows absolutely nothing about farming and a rural way of life. We will not be told by somebody from the city to calm down. We are going to deal with this and we are going to deal with this in the farmers way. Tom Bradshaw, the president of the NFU, said: I dont for one moment condone that anyone will stop supplying the supermarkets. We saw during the Covid crisis that those unable to get their food were often either the most vulnerable or those that have been working long hours in hospitals [such as] nurses. That is something we do not want to see again, but this is in the governments control: they can sit down, they can talk to us and work a way through this. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tuesdays protest is expected to be attended by Jeremy Clarkson and Kaleb Cooper, the stars of the reality television show Clarksons Farm, with protest organisers hoping it will eventually feature on an episode of the Amazon programme. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau indicated support for German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's recent phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, though adding his trust in the Russian leader is "at an all-time low," Bloomberg reported on Nov. 17. "We all understand how important it is to see an end to the violence in Ukraine, to see an end to conflicts around the world," Trudeau told Bloomberg during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Peru, which took place between Nov. 15-16. "That requires a level of engagement with counterparts who in many cases we disagree with." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scholz spoke with Putin on Nov. 15 for the first time in nearly two years. The German chancellor condemned Russias war, urged Putin to withdraw his troops, and discussed potential talks with Kyiv. The call sparked anger in Ukraine, with President Volodymyr Zelensky saying the conversation opens a "Pandora's box" for further engagement and that "it is extremely important for Putin to loosen his isolation, Russia's isolation." Trudeau added that Canada and other partners are closely engaging with Zelensky and that "it's a good thing that there are conversations around this, but the level of trust that I have for Vladimir Putin is probably at an all-time low right now." The phone call came under fresh criticism from Ukraine and elsewhere following a mass Russian drone and missile strike early on Nov. 17. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "No-one will stop Putin with phone calls. The attack last night, one of the biggest in this war, has proved that telephone diplomacy cannot replace real support from the whole West for Ukraine," Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said on X. "This is war criminal Putins true response to all those who called and visited him recently. We need peace through strength, not appeasement," Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha commented. In his defense, Scholz told the media on Nov. 17 that the phone call was meant to dispel any illusions Putin might hold about the West withdrawing support for Ukraine. "The conversation was very detailed but contributed to a recognition that little has changed in the Russian president's views of the war - and that's not good news," Scholz said, according to Sky News. He also added it would not be good if no European leader were in contact with Moscow if the new U.S. administration will be. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to swiftly end the war by bringing Russia and Ukraine to the negotiating table. His imminent return to the White House has also sparked fears that Washington might withdraw its support, forcing Europe and other partners to radically step up their contributions. Read also: We must do everything to end this war next year through diplomatic means Zelensky speaks on negotiations, war Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. KANSAS CITY, Mo. The Missouri State Highway Patrols (MSHP) Division of Drug and Crime Control, as well as the Kansas City Police Department (KCPD), is investigating a trooper-involved shooting early Sunday morning. According to MSHP, just before 12:30 a.m. Sunday, a trooper tried to pull a car over for speeding northbound on Interstate 35 (I-35) in Clay County, Missouri. However, the driver accelerated and exited the highway instead of yielding. KC man sentenced to 23 years after shooting man, dumping body in street Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report said the driver got back on the highway heading southbound into Jackson County. During the chase, a Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) helicopter monitoring the pursuit through a communications channel chose to arrive at the scene and follow overhead. This allowed MSHP troopers on the ground to stop the chase and listen to updates from KHP. Eventually, both pursuits were discontinued and the KHP helicopter returned across the state line to assist in another call. MSHP troopers drove to the cars last known location and found it at about 12:40 a.m. It was parked at Linwood Boulevard and Van Brunt Avenue, and the driver was still inside. According to MSHPs report, troopers tried to prevent the driver from fleeing again by placing a patrol car in the front and the rear of the car. As the troopers got out of their cars, though, the driver reversed and hit one of the patrol cars and then accelerated forward and hit the other. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the troopers standing outside their car fired a gun at the suspect as it continued to try and flee. However, MSHP said the driver ended up getting around the barricade and headed westbound on Interstate 70. While fleeing, the driver exited onto Prospect Avenue and came to a stop near 13th Street before becoming disabled. The driver then fled on foot but was taken into custody. KC man convicted of murder after deadly July shooting, 8-hour standoff Two passengers were found in the car, however, one was suffering from gunshot wounds. The injured passenger was taken to a hospital and was later reported to have non-life-threatening injuries. No troopers were injured in the accident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MSHP said the case is being investigated by the Patrols Division of Drug and Crime Control and members of KCPD. KCPDs Crime Scene Investigation Unit is also helping collect evidence. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. (Reuters) - One person has died and at least 39 others made ill by E. coli infections linked to fresh carrots sold by several large grocery retailers in 18 states, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Sunday. The CDC said in a statement that the infections are linked to whole bagged carrots and baby carrots sold by Grimmway Farms in California. Walmart, Target, Kroger, Whole Foods and Trader Joe's, among other stores, retail the carrots under a variety of brand names. The carrots are unlikely to still be on store shelves, the CDC said, but may still be in consumers' homes and should be thrown away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said on Saturday that Grimmway Farms had issued a voluntary recall of the carrots, which were also shipped to stores in Canada and Puerto Rico. The recalled whole carrots had best-if-used-by dates ranging from Aug. 14 through Oct. 23. The recalled baby carrots had dates from Sept. 11 through Nov. 12. Grimmway, based in Bakersfield, California, said in a Saturday press release that the company is reviewing its growing, harvesting and processing practices, and that it is working with suppliers and health authorities on the matter. According to media reports, the previously family owned company was sold to private equity firm Teays River Investments in 2020. (Reporting by Brad Brooks in Colorado; Editing by Cynthia Osterman) (WSPA) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a warning after 39 people across 18 states were infected with E. coli after eating organic carrots sold at major retailers. According to the CDC, the carrots originated from Grimmway Farms, a California-based producer and distributor of carrots. The company has since issued a recall of their carrots, and they are not available on store shelves, though any carrots sold previously could still be a risk to people who bought them. The CDC recommends not eating bagged carrots from any of the impacted name brands. Any impacted carrots should be thrown away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carrots impacted by the recall include baby organic carrots or whole organic carrots from brands 365, Bunny Luv, Cal-Organic, Compliments, Full Circle, Good & Gather, GreenWise, Grimmway Farms, Marketside, Natures Promise, O-Organic, Presidents Choice, Raleys, Simple Truth, Sprouts, Trader Joes, Wegmans, Wholesome Pantry. All impacted baby carrot products would have a best-if-used-by dates from Sept. 11 Nov. 12, and whole organic carrots would have a best-if-used-by dates of Aug. 14 Oct. 23. For more information about the E.coli outbreak, click here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. DENVER (KDVR) If you had reservations for 7:30 p.m. or 8 p.m. at Casa Bonita on Friday night, you might recall being asked to leave about 15 minutes before the restaurant was slated to close. You might even recall a sewage odor. This is something many customers recalled that night, and now they are looking for answers. One customer posted her experience on Reddit, to which a couple of others echoed her sentiments. In a phone call with FOX31, Alicia said she arrived at the restaurant with a group of 16 people for a 7:30 p.m. reservation. A vigil was held for 15-year-old Preston John Porter Jr. who was lynched near Limon in 1900 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We were trying to be as efficient as possible when we were there trying to, you know, get our orders in quickly because we wanted to maximize our time just exploring Casa Bonita, she said. She said the dinner experience was normal, except when one of her friends tried to use the restrooms at the restaurant, but couldnt. My friend, like, really had to use the restroom and she wasnt able to, Alicia said. So, there was definitely some frantic driving to find a bathroom, you know, outside of Casa Bonita. Then, they wrapped up dinner and decided to explore. That was when she first noticed the smell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around 9:30 p.m., it was clear that there were parts of the restaurant where there was a really strong, like, foul smell, she said. As it got later, the smell grew worse. We wanted to see the cliff divers. We hadnt seen them yet. And when we went to the base of the waterfall, it was overwhelming, Alicia recalled. Terrible fumes were, were just everywhere in that area. At around 10:15 p.m., the restaurant closed and everyone inside was asked to leave. By that time, the smell was so nauseating. For sure one person threw up on the walk out. I was physically sick and heaving from just how overwhelming and toxic the septic smells were, Alicia said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How Travis Hunter could win the Heisman Trophy Another guest, Jake Gould agreed. It smelled horrible as we were walking out, said Gould. A representative for the restaurant said there was an issue with the city of Lakewoods system, and the restaurant did close 15 minutes early. However, the restaurant reopened on Saturday with no issues. The city of Lakewood said in a statement to FOX31: The city doesnt provide water or sanitary sewer service to the restaurant. Casa Bonitas sanitary sewer provider is East Jefferson County Sanitation District, said city spokesperson, Stacie Oulton. She added, Our street maintenance also checked the mains in the street in the area and found all of our city main lines are flowing perfectly with absolutely zero issues. That would indicate its with the restaurants service line or internal issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FOX31 also reached out to other businesses in the area and the ones that got back to us said everything was normal on Friday night. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. The Casa Grande Police Department asked for the public's help to locate an arson suspect who officials believe set fire to a Catholic church in late October. On Saturday, Casa Grande police released a video of a suspect who is believed responsible for starting an Oct. 18 fire at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, located near Marshall and Second streets. The suspect is seen wearing a gray hoodie with white lettering on the chest and gray pants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fire caused significant damage to the church. Representing the only Catholic place of worship in the city, community members stepped up to support the church as authorities searched for the arson suspect. "CGPD has been working closely with the Casa Grande Fire Department and the ATF to complete this investigation. Detectives believe the person in this video is responsible for the crime," wrote the Casa Grande police on Facebook. Anyone with information on the case was asked to contact Detective Alex Teitelbaum, via email at alex_teitelbaum@casagrandeaz.gov, or by phone at 520-421-8711, ext. 6017. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Casa Grande police seek help finding suspect in Catholic church arson CHICAGO A Catholic priest on Chicagos South Side has been reinstated after no evidence supporting allegations of sexual abuse made against him last week was found. Archbishop Cardinal Blase J. Cupich sent letters to Our Lady at St. Germaine, St. Gerald, St. Cajetan, St. John Fisher, St. John Neumann, St. Gianna and St. Barnabas parishes informing them of his decision to reinstate Fr. Martin Marren after he was temporarily removed from ministry. Last week, officials said the Department of Child and Family Services opened an investigation against Marren amid allegations of alleged sexual abuse of a minor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Archdiocese Office for the Protection of Children and Youth presented their findings and the results of their own investigation to its Independent Review Board (IRB) on Saturday, according to officials. Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines The IRB found no reasonable cause to believe Marren sexually abused a minor and recommended the file be closed and he be returned to ministry. It is important to stress that the welfare of the children entrusted to our care is of paramount importance. It is for that reason we take all allegations of sexual misconduct seriously. At the same time, we must restore the good name of anyone so accused when the allegations are found to be unsubstantiated, Cupich said in a statement. To that end, I publicly affirm that Father Marren is a priest in good standing and express sincere appreciation for his many years of service to the People of God in the Archdiocese of Chicago. He deserves our respect and gratitude and I hope you will join me in thanking him for his long-standing dedication. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Archdiocese of Chicago encourages anyone who feels they have been sexually abused by a priest, deacon, religious or lay employee to come forward. Complete information about reporting sexual abuse can be found on the archdiocesan website. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. (WHNT) The Centers for Disease Control put out a warning Sunday about a possible new E. coli outbreak found in organic carrots. The CDC and public health and regulatory officials in several states are investigating a multistate outbreak of E. coliO121 infections linked to multiple brands of recalled organic whole-bagged carrots and baby carrots. The carrots in question are those sold by Grimmway Farms, according to the CDC website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HPD investigating after man shot, killed on Lakeview Drive The department said that carrots on store shelves currently are likely not affected but the affected products could be in peoples homes. If you have any recalled carrots, you are asked to throw them out or return them to the store. The CDC website says that as of Nov. 17, 39 people have been infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli from 18 different states. Illnesses reportedly started on dates ranging from Sept. 6 to Oct. 28. Of the 39 people infected, 15 have been hospitalized and none have developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, which is a serious condition that could cause kidney failure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CDC reported that one death has been reported from California. Download the WHNT News 19 App to stay updated on the go. Sign up for WHNT News 19 newsletters to have news sent to your inbox. Below is the map provided on the CDC website of the states known to have the E. coli outbreak. (Photo: Centers for Disease Control, website) This outbreak may not be limited to the states with known illnesses, and the true number of sick people is likely much higher than the number reported. CDC website The website also reported that it takes roughly three to four weeks to determine if a sick person is part of an outbreak. Although the recalled bagged organic whole and baby carrots are likely no longer available for sale in stores, they could still be in your home. Check your refrigerator or freezer and throw them away. CDC is advising people not eat, sell, or serve recalled bagged organic carrots. CDC website Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. Editors note: This story is available as a result of a content partnership between WFTV and the Orlando Business Journal. The Central Florida Expressway Authority is advancing its plans for a new expressway in Osceola County near Poinciana. The authority currently is working on a Southport Connector which would go from State Road 538 to Floridas Turnpike. It has three potential paths it is exploring to the south of Lake Tohopekaliga to pursue the road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read: Orange County residents are still waiting for Hurricane Milton debris to be collected a month later Will Hawthorne, the authoritys director of engineering, said during a Nov. 14 meeting the roadway comes as Polk and Osceola counties are expected to grow significantly. Click here to read the full story on the Orlando Business Journals website. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Large companies like Disney and Uber have arbitration clauses in their Terms of Use. Arbitration is when a neutral third party settles a dispute instead of a jury trial. Customers don't always know that terms for one service a company offers can apply to all its services. Companies are using a simple strategy to avoid courtroom litigation when disaster strikes: the fine print. Terms and conditions have become a ubiquitous part of life for many people, from purchasing concert tickets to applying for a credit card. The legal agreement between businesses and their customers spells out both parties' responsibilities under a contractual relationship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That legal agreement can include an arbitration clause that removes a customer's right to sue a company when things go wrong whether the customer knows it or not. Instead, they can be forced to use a neutral third party to settle a dispute instead of a jury at trial. In some cases, companies are using infinite arbitration clauses, which can extend to individuals beyond the original contractual parties, requiring all disputes to be settled out of the courtroom, and can be enforceable even after terminating a service. "Infinite clauses stretch to the horizon and last forever. They are less a contractual provision and more a kind of arbitration servitude," David Horton, a professor at the University of California, Davis, School of Law, wrote in the University of Pennsylvania Law Review. It's a near-century-old practice that some legal experts say should be modernized for the digital age. The Disney case In the case of large companies, arbitration clauses included in one service can often apply to any service the company offers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This scenario gained attention earlier this year after a New York State man filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against Disney and a restaurant operator who runs a pub at Disney Springs. Disney does not own the restaurant. Jeffrey Piccolo's lawsuit said his wife, Kanokporn Tangsuan, died in October 2023 from a "severe acute allergic reaction" after dining at Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant, where they asked a staff member on "numerous occasions" if allergen-free options were available. The staff member assured them the restaurant did, but Tangsuan collapsed inside Planet Hollywood later that night and was transported to a local hospital, according to the complaint. A medical examiner's investigation determined she died due to "anaphylaxis due to elevated levels of dairy and nut in her system." A lawsuit said Kanokporn Tangsuan died after visiting Disney Springs in Central Florida. Disney/Walt Disney World Resort via Getty Images In response, Disney filed a motion to compel arbitration, arguing that Piccolo could not sue the company because he had agreed to its Terms of Use when signing up for a free Disney+ trial years earlier and again when purchasing tickets to its theme park. Disney quickly found itself in a PR nightmare as people online called the move "very dystopian" and urged users to cancel their Disney+ subscriptions in retaliation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the criticism, Disney reversed course and dropped its motion to compel arbitration. The case is pending in the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court in Orange County, Florida. "At Disney, we strive to put humanity above all other considerations. With such unique circumstances as the ones in this case, we believe this situation warrants a sensitive approach to expedite a resolution for the family who have experienced such a painful loss," Josh D'Amaro, the chairman of Disney Experiences, said in a statement. Although Disney relented, Piccolo isn't the only one to get caught up in the fine print, and he likely won't be the last. Lawyers and legal experts who spoke to Business Insider said there is little consumers can do to avoid arbitration clauses in an era when signing contracts often happens with the tap of a finger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I think the only thing we can do is opt out of the internet," Joseph Cammarata, a partner at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. in Washington DC, told Business Insider. Large companies use arbitration to avoid damaging their reputations in a public trial John and Georgia McGinty filed a complaint against Uber in February 2023. Georgia McGinty; Stark & Stark Like Disney, Uber made headlines this year for a 2023 lawsuit filed by Georgia and John McGinty in the Superior Court of New Jersey. In a September court filing, the couple said they were riding in an Uber in March 2022 when the driver ran a red light and crashed into another vehicle. The court filing said Georgia sustained multiple injuries, including rib, cervical, and lumbar spine fractures. She also experienced damage to her abdominal wall, pelvic floor, and a protruding hernia. John sustained "severe" fractures to his left arm and wrist and a fractured sternum, according to the lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Uber responded by filing a motion to compel arbitration, which that court denied. However, Uber appealed, and New Jersey's appellate division sided with the company, which said the McGinty's could not have a courtroom trial because Georgia agreed to its Terms of Use in 2022 for an unrelated Uber Eats order. The couple pushed back, saying their underage daughter made that order and have filed an appeal. "While the plaintiffs continue to tell the press that it was their daughter who ordered Uber Eats and accepted the Terms of Use, it's worth noting that in court they could only 'surmise' that that was the case but could not recall whether their daughter ordered food independently or if Georgia assisted," an Uber spokesperson said in a statement. Georgia McGinty said in a lawsuit that she was injured in a car crash during a 2022 Uber ride. Georgia McGinty Stacey Lee, a professor of law and ethics at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School, told BI that consumers are increasingly running into arbitration clauses, but how businesses use them isn't necessarily new. "It has always been the default for businesses to want to go to arbitration for a number of reasons," Lee said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You're not going to have a class action lawsuit, you're not going to have it plastered on top of the front page, there's limited discovery, and businesses have a little more control over who the arbitrators are," she said. Arbitration usually has three arbitrators selected from the Arbitration Association of America. They're often business professionals with experience in a specific field. "Their knowledge of the customs and norms of the industry is very different than a judge's, and because they're on the business side, they have a tendency to agree more with the business interpretations of how things work," Lee said. Cammarata said companies know juries might be less sympathetic to their arguments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They want to limit public accountability and responsibility," he said. "A jury may listen and say, 'Uber, are you kidding me?'" However, arbitration isn't inherently anti-consumer or unfair to the average person. Compared to courtroom litigation, arbitration can cost less money and be a quicker process. People also can request an appeal in arbitration, but it's not the same as a courtroom trial, where they would have the right to do so. This private form of settling legal disputes arose with the Federal Arbitration Act in 1925, making it nearly 100 years old. John Carpenter, a partner at the California-based law firm Carpenter & Zuckerman, said the arbitration clause is due for an update. "The problem is we're applying a statute that goes back to 1925 to 2024," Carpenter said, "It's an entirely different world. The world we live in now wasn't even conceivable in 1925." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carpenter said that arbitration was generally used to determine one-on-one agreements, but now "it's being used digitally in terms of use agreements and essentially contracting away an entire branch of government with a click." How consumers protect themselves from arbitration clauses Cammarata said one way consumers can navigate arbitration is to check if a company's terms of use has an opt-out clause. That, however, relies on consumers reading through the businesses' Terms of Use, which are often lengthy and written in legal jargon. "First of all, they haven't read it, so they don't even know that they agreed to arbitration, let alone to opt out," he said. Lee said that while courts tend to be critical of arbitration clauses in employment agreements, they're less so regarding things like streaming services or rideshare apps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Increasingly, courts are like, 'You can read. You scroll through and click yes. It is now your responsibility," Lee said. "You can walk away from the service, and it doesn't affect your life, liberty, or pursuit of happiness." John said he believes courts need to reexamine the Federal Arbitration Act. "It's going to require legislative action to take a look at this," he said. Read the original article on Business Insider A Minnesota election judge has been charged with two felonies for allegedly letting nearly a dozen people vote without registering. Timothy Michael Scouton, a 64-year-old Nevis resident, served as head election judge for the Badoura Township Precinct in Hubbard County. He was arrested in the aftermath of the November 5 election, after officials failed to receive same-day voter registration applications for 11 new voters, according to criminal charges filed Friday. In Minnesota, eligible citizens are allowed to register to vote on Election Day, as long as they complete an application, take an oath, and show proof of residence. The application must then be forwarded to the county auditor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Per the charges, two days after the election, Hubbard County Auditor Kay Rave emailed the county attorney that Scouton hadn't sent the completed voter registration forms for the 11 new voters, triggering an investigation. "When asked, Scouton told Rave that they could not find the registration forms to use," the charges say. "After Rave located the forms, Scouton told Rave they did not use them." Credit: kgroovy, Flickr Investigators later spoke to the other election judges who had worked with Scouton on Election Day. One reported that Scouton had directed them not to use the registration application forms; another said that Scouton had told them that new voters "only needed to sign the back of the book." Scouton declined to provide investigators with a statement and was arrested. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials confirmed that he had completed both Basic Election Judge Training and Head Judge Training before the election. The criminal charges do not mention a possible motive. If convicted on the two charges against him, Scouton faces up to 10 years in prison and up to $20,000 in fines. CHAVES COUNTY, N.M. (KRQE) Chaves County residents affected by last months floods can now apply for unemployment assistance from the federal government. According to FEMA, those who lost their jobs, or are self-employed and can no longer work as a result of the disaster, are being encouraged to apply for assistance. They said residents must have been unemployed for at least a week following the flood to be eligible. Unemployment assistance through FEMA is expected to be available until May of next year. Click here for more information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. In a name-your-poison twist, a new study from the University of Illinois adds to the evidence that Chicago-area waterway pollution is slowing the relentless advance of the invasive silver carp. Researchers turned their attention to a section of the Illinois River, about 50 miles from Chicago, where the silver carps progress stalled out more than 10 years ago, with the formidable fish holding its ground but failing to continue on toward Lake Michigan. The researchers took water from a more polluted section of the river not far from where the carp stalled and put young silver carp in it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead of moving around and exploring, as they did in clean water, the fish slowed down almost immediately. Its sort of a coping mechanism, said study co-author Cory Suski, a professor of natural resources and environmental sciences at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. You kind of hunker down and hope that whatever is bad in your environment is going to pass by. The authors also found that the silver carp burned more energy in the polluted water, a sign that their bodies were fighting the effects of contaminants. Suski co-authored a previous study in which silver carp from the Illinois River showed gene activity consistent with contaminant exposure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now weve got a bit of a mechanism, Suski said. If the fish do swim further on, the contaminant loads are probably going to be a little higher and its going to be energetically costly to be there. It almost becomes like its not worth it theyre spending more energy to keep themselves safe than they are possibly taking in. Other factors that could be causing the Illinois River carp to stall include shoreline changes such as walled river banks closer to the city; downstream carp fishing; and locks and dams. There are a bunch of different things at play that could be preventing (the carp) from moving forward, but now some stimulus in the water should also be on the list, Suski said. The study didnt identify which contaminants are affecting the carp. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the suspects: volatile organic compounds and substances not removed by wastewater treatment plants, such as pharmaceuticals. Its possible that researchers could figure out which substances deter carp, Suski said, and that information could have practical benefits. Not to say that we need to start polluting, he said. Pollution is not a good carp deterrent, but we might be able to say, (Theres) something that they dont seem to like. Is there some way we can use that?' Silver carp and bighead carp, which are both stalled about 47 miles from Lake Michigan in Channahon, outcompete native species. Government agencies are working to stop them from entering Lake Michigan, where they could harm native fish and the $7 billion Great Lakes fishing industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Invasive carp arrived in the U.S. from Asia in the 1970s, imported to eat algae in commercial fish ponds. They escaped and have been spreading through waterways since the 1980s. Its definitely one of the most challenging conservation issues of our time, in part because its so widespread across the Mississippi River Basin, which reaches into 31 states, said U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service spokesperson Janet Lebson. A few invasive carp have been spotted closer to Chicago than the stalling location, but those fish are viewed as isolated explorers rather than members of a population front on the move. In 2022, a silver carp was found in Lake Calumet, about 7 miles from Lake Michigan; in 2017, a silver carp was found below T.J. OBrien Lock and Dam, about 9 miles from Lake Michigan; and in 2010 a bighead carp was found in Lake Calumet, Lebson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The main line of defense in the Chicago area is an an electric current barrier system near Romeoville and about 30 miles from Lake Michigan, in the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. Construction of a major addition, the long-awaited $1.2 billion Brandon Road Interbasin Project deterrence system on the Des Plaines River near Joliet, is expected to begin early next year. Another major initiative, invasive carp fishing by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and its partners, removes about a million pounds of fish per year from the states waterways. Study co-author Amy Schneider noted that water quality in the Chicago area has been improving, and a lot of the native fish found in the Illinois River are doing fairly well in the Chicago River and its tributaries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its possible we could see (silver carp) move upstream if the water quality improves, she said. Keeping an eye on them, and trying to predict what aspect of the water quality is affecting them, might give us some insight as to when and why they might move upstream in the future. nschoenberg@chicagotribune.com This article was originally published in Chalkbeat. The City of Chicago has extended a deadline for low-income families to apply for at least $500 if they have children with disabilities a cash grant effort meant to provide some relief for students and parents with additional needs who faced challenges during the pandemic. The original deadline for the effort first unveiled in April was Oct. 30. The Mayors Office for People With Disabilities has extended the deadline to this Friday, Nov. 15. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new deadline comes after less than half of the desired number of grantees had been approved for or received the grants as of early October. Those interested can apply online at www.AdaMOPD.com or can text AdaMOPD to (877) 478-1359. Get stories like these delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter When the city announced the program, it said it would provide grants to as many as 8,000 families using federal COVID relief money from the Biden administration. But as of mid-September, roughly six weeks before the original deadline, the city had awarded just 2,000 grants, according to data obtained by Chalkbeat through a Freedom of Information Act request. At that time, a total of 8,722 applications had been submitted, according to the Mayors Office for People with Disabilities. By Oct. 1, 9,263 applications had been received or started, according to a breakdown provided by then-City Hall spokesperson Ronnie Reese.At that time, a total 3,717 families had been approved for the grants, which included families who hadnt received the money yet, Reese said. Roughly 4,400 people had started applications but had not completed them and have not provided all the required documentation or information, Reese said at the time, adding that a community outreach team was trying to help these families to finish their applications. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city had asked another 779 applicants to provide more information as of Oct. 1. The city rejected 264 applications because they werent eligible; 57 applications hadnt yet been reviewed. A City Hall spokesperson did not immediately share updated figures on Monday. Students with disabilities faced mounting challenges during the pandemic. These students are legally entitled to services at school that are outlined in an Individualized Education Program, or IEP, which can include extra help or therapies at school. School closures during the pandemic, however, separated many students from those supports. Like other districts, Chicago Public Schools fell far behind during the early part of the pandemic in evaluating students with disabilities for the support they needed, a Chalkbeat investigation found. The city had budgeted $5 million for the program through American Rescue Plan dollars, which the federal government distributed to cities and states during the pandemic. About $1 million of that went to Ada S. McKinley Community Center, which the city partnered with to distribute the grant, in order to cover administrative costs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chicago received almost $2 billion in American Rescue Plan funds. Similar to COVID relief money that went to school districts, these funds are temporary and must be earmarked by next month, according to the city. Grantees for the program must be parents or guardians of students with disabilities and can apply for up to two grants per household. Applicants must be Chicago residents and must earn no more than 300% of the federal poverty level, or $93,600 at most for a family of four, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Families must have documentation that proves their child receives services at school, such as an Individualized Education Program or 504 plan, or proof from a doctor that their child has a disability. In a prepared statement, Jamal Malone, CEO of Ada S. McKinley Community Services, which contracted with the city to help sign people up for the grant, said that with school in full swing, families may learn about the grant during school visits, such as during parent-teacher conferences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His organization is also hosting events at local libraries to inform families about the grants. Sherry Henry, whose son is in middle school and is on the autism spectrum, attended the mayors announcement in April and said she received her grant money over the summer. She said she largely used the grant to pay her bills, but she also let her son choose something he wanted. He picked out some sketchbooks. She credits the extra money for sparking a love of art in her son, who chose to buy the sketchbooks. He never said he was going to be an artist before, but he said hes gonna be an artist now, so yeah, so I can smile about that, Henry said. This story was originally published by Chalkbeat. Sign up for their newsletters at ckbe.at/newsletters CHICAGO Chicago police are warning residents of the Austin neighborhood about a series of armed robberies. Police said the incidents happened at the following times and locations: 5200 block of W. Harrison St November 11, 2024 (3:30 4:08pm hours) in Austin 5300 block of W. Congress Pky November 11, 2024 (10:11am hours) in Austin 500 block of S. Lockwood Ave.- November 12, 2024 (9:45pm hours) in Austin 400 block of S. Lockwood Ave. November 14, 2024 (7:31am hours) in Austin Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In each of the incidents, the suspect approached the victims while walking on the sidewalk or near an alley. The suspect brandished a handgun while demanding the victim to turn over their property, such as their purses, cell phones, jewelry, clothes and credit cards. CPD: Armed robbery suspects believed to be connected to at least 17 crimes During one of the incidents, the suspect shot the victim four times twice in the body and twice in the knee, according to police. Police described the suspect as a male between 59 and 60 between the ages of 15-25, and between 130-170 pounds. He was wearing dark clothing at the time of the robberies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information is asked to call police at 312-746-8253. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. CHICAGO Dozens of volunteers gathered Saturday in Rogers Park to help refugees and migrant families in Chicago have a happy Thanksgiving. The Chicago Refugee Coalition hosted the event and volunteers packed and distributed 240 Thanksgiving dinner kits, enough to feed 1,500 people. May this box or this meal remind you that of the community that youre surrounded by, and I think thats the feeling, volunteer Annalisa Musacchio said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The kits consist of turkey provided by Islamic Relief USA rice, stuffing and canned goods all from community donors. St. Sabina Church distributes free winter coats to over 1,200 individuals Also in every box is a handwritten note from a volunteer. I lived in Central America for 10 years, so I understand where many of these people are coming from and I understand the importance of family and togetherness and being grateful, volunteer Christina Myers said. Founded in 2018, the Chicago Refugee Coalition supports new arrivals by providing services that help them start new lives in the city. Refugees in our community have such a profound need to be continually supported, especially in lieu of what were looking at over the next four years, and I think that the gift of having a package thats lovingly prepared with a handwritten note delivered to your front door is going to be really meaningful for a lot of people this holiday season, Executive Director of the Chicago Refugee Coalition Alisa Bhachu said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. This past summer, behind closed doors and under a veil of secrecy that even included the signing of a non-disclosure agreement, the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, quietly took several steps that will lower academic standards for Wisconsins students all with zero input from parents or lawmakers. These unilateral decisions by State Superintendent Jill Underly will not only impact how schools are assessed but will ultimately leave parents in the dark about their childs progress. The previous standards were implemented in 2012 under Gov. Tony Evers, who was then serving as DPI Superintendent, with bipartisan support. These standards aligned Wisconsin with the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) and were designed to assess whether students were ready for college and careers. But now, a much lower bar has been created in Wisconsin and NAEP alignment is gone. Lowered standards can create false sense of academic progress For example, on the most recent round of the NAEP, about 32% of Wisconsin 8th graders were found to be proficient in reading. This is comparable to the 36% who were found to be proficient on the 2022-23 Forward Exam. But proficiency among this group jumped to 48.4% in 2023-24 on the state exam, creating a 16-percentage point gap. Even Evers has openly criticized these new lowered standards, stating that he believes, We need to have as high of standards as possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Opinion: MPS suffers death by a thousand cuts while private, choice schools get millions Even worse than losing the ability to compare Wisconsin students to students nationally on the NAEP is that the changes were so significant that it will make it nearly impossible to compare progress with previous years. In previous years, scores were reported on a three-digit scale, but now a four-digit scale is used. This change means that the new standards cannot easily be mapped onto the old ones, and any hope of measuring year-to-year progress is lost. Thats particularly problematic in a post-pandemic environment where most students in Wisconsin fell behind academically and have struggled to catch back up. A study by Harvards Center for Education Policy Research, found that between 2019 and 2022, Wisconsin student achievement fell by 37% of a grade equivalent in math and 28% in reading. While achievement has rebounded slightly, most districts are still behind their pre-pandemic levels. DPI even changed the names of categories of results on exam These shifts are made even more confusing by the curious decision of DPI to change the names of the categories of results on the exam. Instead of the long-used labels of Below Basic, Basic, Proficient, the category names have been changed to Developing, Approaching, and Meeting (the highest category Advanced stayed the same under the new formulation). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is unclear why these changes were made. But what is clear is that they make it more difficult for parents to understand how well their children are doing in school. Telling a parent that their child is approaching proficiency may be a more hopeful message that reduces the heat on a childs school, but it may not be true and could create a sense of complacency rather than urgency in parents about the need to improve. Opinion: Arguments that Wisconsin schools are underfunded fall flat. Data shows otherwise. Changes to the Forward exam will also exacerbate pre-existing problems with Wisconsins state report cards, which already set a low bar for success. On last years report card, 55% of schools with ELA proficiency under 30% including 54 such schools in Milwaukee were judged to Meet Expectations on the state report card. This includes Hi-Mount Elementary in Milwaukee where zero yes zero kids were proficient in ELA. Rather than the lowered accountability standards brought about by these changes, parents actually want greater accountability and focus on academic results. A recent poll showed that 72% of parents nationwide believe that schools are not focusing on ensuring schools are proficient at important basic skills like reading and math. Furthermore, 81% of parents say that we should expect more out of our public schools and should hold them more accountable for educating students. This is ripe opportunity for common ground. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wisconsin parents deserve an accountability system that provides transparent, honest data and not one that is manipulated for political games. Legislators and the Governor should work together in the upcoming legislative session to reverse these changes, and rein in the ability of DPI to make unilateral changes like this in the future. Kyle Koenen is the policy director at the Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty (WILL). Will Flanders is its research director. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: School leader made unilateral changes under veil of secrecy | Opinion Journalist Chris Cuomo told Bill Maher that he voted for his brother, former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D), for president, writing in his name on the ballot. I got some heat for who I voted for for president, Chris Cuomo said in a Friday clip of Mahers show Real Time highlighted by Mediate. When Chris revealed it was his brother, Andrew, who resigned from the governorship due to sexual harassment allegations, Maher was shocked. Andrew Cuomo has previously denied any wrongdoing and continues to do so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And then I spelled his name wrong so I dont think it counts, but the choices to me were unacceptable for this country, Cuomo explained. Really? You couldnt vote for Kamala Harris? Maher asked. Cuomo reaffirmed his choice, claiming the Democrats were an embarrassment this election cycle. I could have done a lot of things, but my feeling is we deserve better than this, Cuomo said. The process that the Democrats put us through was an embarrassment to Democrats. Democrats have been quick to point fingers about who is to blame for Vice President Harriss election loss to President-elect Trump and for Republicans Senate and House majority wins. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many party leaders have blamed the shift on Democrats messaging that did not resonate with voters stance on immigration and the economy as outlined in exit polls. Updated at 9:22 p.m. EST. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) Hundreds of people lined Gypsy Lane and surrounding streets for a free household items giveaway on Saturday. The event started at 1 p.m., but people were starting to line up at 8 a.m. The giveaway was hosted by the City of Youngstown and Cleveland-based nonprofit The Colony Collective, which hosts free giveaways every first and third Saturday. Executive Director Chauncey Phillips said he lived in Youngstown for a short period and wanted to bring the distribution to the Valley. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats a blessing for everyone else, and I just want to do the right thing, basically. We dont hold any of the supplies. We give it out to the people directly, Phillips said. The giveaway provided people with household necessities such as pillows, diapers, mop heads and sanitizers. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Jackson Richard Perint has pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Perint was previously arrested on April 3, 2024, but later was released on conditions; however, reports show he violated his terms of release and was later detained on August 15, 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The initial charge comes from a detective with the Clay County Sheriffs Office (CCSO) Narcotics Unit, acting in an online undercover capacity, who arranged a drug transaction with Perint back in August of 2023. Perint arrived on the scene and was held in a traffic stop due to a prior suspension on his license. During the stop, officers found a loaded 9mm pistol and ammunition scattered through the car. At the time, Perint was already a convicted felon, which prohibited him from processing a firearm under federal law. Perint faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. EAST LANSING Clifton Wharton Jr., a former Michigan State University president whose name and memory are tied to MSU's Wharton Center, died Saturday. He was 98, MSUs president from 1970-1978, and a man of many firsts. MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz and the Board of Trustees commemorated Wharton as the first Black president of a major U.S. public research university in a statement issued Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They said the Wharton Center for Performing Arts was named after Wharton and his wife, Dolores, after its completion in 1982 to honor the couples contributions and service to MSU. Clifton Wharton Jr.s profound influence on Michigan State University persists through vital programs launched on his watch, including, notably, the capital campaign resulting in the magnificent performing arts center now bearing his name and that of his wife, Dolores," they said. But, so fittingly for a leader in higher education, his focus on developing people might be said to be his most outstanding legacy. He declared at the outset that, What is frequently required is not a pronouncement of leadership but rather encouragement of the individuals within the institution. "There are many who will attest to the impact of his focus on people, one of the many reasons he will long live in the hearts of Spartans. Wharton died in New York, where he was living, said Emily Guerrant, an MSU spokesperson. He is survived by his wife of 74 years and son Bruce. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An obituary posted on MSUs website said Wharton was a Black pioneer in foreign economic development, higher education, philanthropy and business. After MSU, he became the first Black person to lead the nations largest university system with 64 campuses as chancellor of the State University of New York from 1978-87. He then became the first Black person to serve as CEO of a Fortune 500 company and was chairman and CEO of TIAA-CREF, a large pension fund with assets in the billions. Wharton also served as U.S. Deputy Secretary of State during President Bill Clinton's administration in 1993. An MSU legacy page credited Wharton for overseeing the building of MSUs first superconducting cyclotron, the creation of the MSU Foundation and the launch of its first capital campaign, which made possible the construction of Michigans largest performing arts center, which was named after the Whartons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among his colleagues, Wharton was respected for maintaining the quality of MSUs academic programs despite budget constraints, as well as his commitment to educating the economically disadvantaged, the legacy page said. While he led MSU, the number of Rhodes Scholars rose, and two new colleges opened: the College of Urban Development and the College of Osteopathic Medicine. Wharton steered the university during the final years of the Vietnam War and student protests, and he was known for being committed to engaging with students. He was born in Boston, Massachusetts, on September 13, 1926, and enrolled at 16 at Harvard University, where he received a bachelor's degree in history, according to MSU's tribute pages. He also received degrees from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies and the University of Chicago. In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family has established the Dr. Clifton and Dolores Wharton Legacy Fund at Michigan State University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gifts to the legacy fund will go toward the Wharton Center's endowment fund to support the performing arts center. Contact editor Susan Vela at svela@lsj.com or 248-873-7044. Follow her on Twitter @susanvela. This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Clifton Wharton Jr., former Michigan State president, dies at 98 The lawsuit Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson filed against CNN last month was improperly filed in state court and should be moved to federal court, the network said in a legal filing Friday. In a notice for removal, CNN said the lawsuit should be moved from Wake County Superior Court to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina, arguing that Robinsons action against the network included unrelated claims against another defendant that shouldnt be a part of the suit. Robinson sued CNN last month for its report from September that linked him to a series of racist, disturbing and sexually graphic comments on an online pornography forum made a decade ago, and upended a governors race in which the Republican was already trailing Democratic Attorney General Josh Stein. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Election Day, voters chose Stein to serve as the states next governor over Robinson by nearly 15 percentage points, even as they backed Donald Trump in the presidential race for a third time, helping secure him another term in the White House, and elected certain other statewide GOP candidates. In addition to CNN, Robinsons lawsuit named Louis Love Money, a former employee at a Greensboro adult video store who told The Assembly that the now-GOP lieutenant governor was a frequent customer at porn shops in the area several years ago. In its court filing on Friday, which was first reported by Courthouse News, CNN said Robinsons claims against the network are meritless, and added that it will argue that in court in due course. In the meantime, it said, the suit should be moved to federal court because CNN isnt based in North Carolina, and Robinsons claims against Money are not related to his claims against CNN. The network said Robinsons claims against each defendant represent two different cases that have improperly been joined together. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CNN is not affiliated with Money in any way. There is no allegation that anyone at CNN has even spoken to Money at any time ever, the network stated in the filing. And the allegedly defamatory statements Robinson claims Money made are different in content than those he claims CNN made. In short, Robinsons claims against Money have nothing to do with Robinsons claims against CNN, the network said. Attorneys for Robinson did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Saturday. Mark Nebrig, an attorney for CNN, declined to comment. Money had previously filed a motion to dismiss in Wake County Superior Court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A hearing had been scheduled for Monday to consider that motion, but the court advised parties on Friday that the case wouldnt be heard on Monday due to consolidation of trial and motion calendars, according to online court records. The court said a new date for the hearing would be announced on Tuesday. In the Spotlight designates ongoing topics of high interest that are driven by The News & Observers focus on accountability reporting. Tropical Strom Sara continues to bring excessive rainfall to Central America. The biggest threats continue to be flash floods and mudslides in Honduras, Belize, Guatemala, and portions of Mexico. It will weaken as Sara makes landfall in Belize and moves further inland today. Later today, it will no longer be a tropical system, but it will place a lot of tropical moisture in the gulf that will be absorbed by our next front. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This will result in enhanced rainfall for parts of Florida on Wednesday. Follow our Severe Weather team on X for live updates: Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. 36,718 people played the daily Crossword recently. Can you solve it faster than others? 36,718 people played the daily Crossword recently. Can you solve it faster than others? Nov. 16"Unwavering," "an inspiration" and "devoted pastor" were just a few of the words and phrases used to describe the late Rev. Percy "Happy" Watkins Friday as hundreds gathered at Life Center church to celebrate the life of one of Spokane's most prominent civil rights and spiritual leaders. With attendees traveling from across the Pacific Northwest, across the country and even overseas, the large congregation was fitting for a man who impacted a multitude of lives over the course of his own. Watkins died Oct. 25, after founding and serving as pastor of New Hope Baptist Church for nearly 30 years, co-founding Spokane's annual march commemorating the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and spending decades advocating for the marginalized. He was 82. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The four-hour affair featured more than 25 speakers from the greater Spokane area and throughout the Pacific Northwest who were touched by the pastor over his long life of public service, including local faith leaders, educators, elected officials, community advocates and, of course, his family. Between his four sons and three grandsons who spoke at the event, those familiar with Watkins could hear the reverend's influence, and at times, the voice famous throughout Spokane for its annual delivery of Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech, echo through the church amphitheater. In his remarks at the start of the service, John Watkins reminded attendees they gathered in the church to celebrate, not just to mourn. He shared that at the casket viewing Thursday, he "rejoiced because I know he's in heaven." "I have to believe that he rejoiced when he received Happy," John Watkins said. "I couldn't hear the trumpets because my heart was broken on Oct. 25, and with my tear-stained eyes, I couldn't see him leap into heaven. But I know he's there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "A deacon friend of ours said that he's reciting the 'I Have a Dream' speech to Martin Luther King, better than Martin Luther King," he added, referencing the iconic speech his father recited at the annual march starting in 1971. What stood out in every commenter's remarks was the steadfast dedication and love with which Watkins approached every aspect of his life. He poured himself into his ministry, his advocacy, his family and even his cooking, which received praise from more than a few of the speakers. "Everyone knows about the Martin Luther King speeches that he's done, that he's married hundreds if not thousands, that he was a prison and hospital chaplain," his son Percy Watkins III said. "But the thing for me, and I think for my mother, my brothers, the grandkids, the great-grandkids, is that he just had this immeasurable love and passion for his kids." Percy Watkins III went on to say his father was uniquely involved in their lives, spending hours playing with them as children, then cheering them on as their interests developed and eventually passing that love on to their kids and grandchildren. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Every single time I'd go see him, boy, he would just light up," Percy Watkins III said. "He loved his kids, loved his grandkids, loved his great-grandkids. ... They don't grow 'em like that anymore." Former Spokane Public Schools Superintendent Gary Livingston, MLK Center Executive Director Freda Gandy and Mayor Lisa Brown were among the many speakers representing the factions of Spokane life Watkins worked tirelessly to improve. "He led with integrity and moral authority," Brown said. "His grace, his warmth, all of that mattered, but it was that rock, that foundation of his moral authority that also resonated with anyone he came in contact with." Brown read a salutation she issued to Watkins for "the lasting impact he has left on our community" since his arrival in 1961, when he was a young airman stationed at Fairchild Air Force Base. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to his leadership of his congregation, Watkins spent his life on the front lines of efforts to diversify and improve practices within local law enforcement agencies, schools and other public institutions. Livingston described Watkins as the "most valuable consultant, a go-to mentor, community liaison and, most importantly, a very dear friend." The two had a relationship for over 25 years after Watkins organized a meeting with the African American Ministerial Alliance for Livingston within a month of him taking the job. He said he often reflects on one of Watkins' favorite sayings: "It's always the right time to do the right thing." "This was not just a phase he spoke, it was the principle by which he lived," Livingston said. "To him, doing the right thing was never a matter of timing, convenience or popularity. It was a constant call to action, rooted in love, justice and, for him personally, his faith. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Have we ever met a more impactful and yet so unassuming man?" For Gandy, Watkins was a mentor, confidant, friend and the driving force behind her decision to stay in Spokane well longer than she originally intended. She credits him for molding her into the leader she is today. A Missouri transplant, Gandy said she moved here to go to school to become a school counselor and intended to move to Atlanta relatively quickly. But she fell in love with the mission of the MLK Center after visiting with her son to do some volunteer work as part of her education. "Happy believed in me when I didn't believe in myself," Gandy said, holding back tears. "He said to me one day, 'You're going to be the executive director.' I said, 'I don't know about all that.' " Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watkins persisted, telling Gandy that Spokane needed her to stay. Stay she did, and in 2010, she took over the top role for the community resource center. "He taught me everything I needed to know about keeping his legacy going, Ivan Bush's legacy going with the MLK Day march and rally," Gandy said, referencing Watkin's ally, friend and march co-founder who died last year. "I hung on their coattails for years, just learning, and they showed me the way." In addition to his leadership and advocacy, John Watkins said his father left a lasting impact as someone who could "soften people's hearts and bring about a laugh during tough times." He said the voicemail for his father's office line was a reflection of Watkins' approach, then gave his best impression of his father's unavailable message that ended with, "If you find yourself at a fork in the road, pick it up, put it back in the kitchen drawer." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Paul Watkins, brother to John and Percy, said even after years, he always felt inspired hearing his father speak at an event or lead a congregation. He often reflects on one saying he heard his father rattle off several times over the years: "Whether you're a pine tree on the top of the hill or a shrub in the valley, be the very best shrub you can be." James Watkins, the youngest son who took on his father's pastoral role at New Hope in 2018, concluded the ceremony with a eulogy. He recounted times spent with his father working in the church, the high standard he set for his family as they were kids and how his life's work was all made possible through the support of his wife of 61 years, Etta Jean Watkins. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As a community leader, I think about all the great things he did," James Watkins said. "But none of them were as great as what he did, personally, for me at home and in being my father." James Watkins continued by telling the story of Elisha and his mentor Elijah, with the former Old Testament prophet following Elijah on his missions to Gilgal, Bethel, Jericho and the banks of the Jordan River despite his mentor's commands to the contrary. "He said, 'As the Lord lives and as your soul lives, I will not leave you,' " James Watkins said, reciting Elisha's response to each command. Upon arriving at the river, Elijah is swept up into heaven in a whirlwind, the story goes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just before his death, Elisha requests and receives a "double portion" of Elijah's spirit. The mentee, now with a fortified calling and followers of his own, parts the river and goes on to perform miracles around Israel. James Watkins said like Elijah, his father was called up after going through "difficult times in this land." In the late 1970s and early '80s, Watkins set up a humanities coalition in North Idaho to stand up to the growing Aryan Nations footprint in the region, his son recalled. "He went wherever he was needed, wherever his voice could be used, wherever his name could be used to better a situation, wherever his reputation, wherever his love could help somebody," James Watkins said. "That's what he did. Like Elisha, he was a miracle worker. God bestowed something on him." The lesson also reflects their own relationship, James Watkins said, despite his vows throughout childhood that he would not follow in his father's footsteps and become a preacher. He said he originally started following the elder Watkins out of fear for his dad's safety, but then it grew into a calling. "When Elisha asked for a double, he wasn't being arrogant, he wasn't asking for material things, he wasn't asking to be greater than Elijah," James Watkins said. "All he was doing is saying, 'Elijah, I just want to be the caretaker of your destiny. I want to be the caretaker, a man for your legacy.' " The eulogy concluded with a call to action for everyone in attendance to become that caretaker of Watkins' legacy and life's work, as his son James Watkins committed to doing the same. Watkins was a man who "dreamed ridiculous dreams," his son said dreams that others thought were crazy, couldn't work or were just straight-up impossible. But that drive, and that optimism, directly led to the good Watkins poured into the world, his son said. "If I could leave you with one thing that my father instilled in me," James Watkins said, "it is to dream a ridiculous dream when you go home tonight." Textiles exports from India during October were about 11.56 per cent higher at USD 1,833.95 million, compared to the same month last year. At the same time, apparel exports registered a significant growth of 35.06 per cent during the same period October at USD 1,227.44 million, the Confederation of Indian Textile Industry said in a report, citing government data. Cumulative exports of textiles and apparel in October 2024 increased by 19.93 per cent compared to October 2023. During April-October, Indian textiles exports registered a growth of 4.01 per cent over the previous year while apparel exports registered a growth of 11.60 per cent during the same time, data showed. "We are encouraged by these developments, as they underscore the resilience and competitiveness of India's textile and apparel industry on the global stage," the industry body CITI said in a note. While the industry body did not give any reason for the export boost, Bangladesh's political instability has likely led to a trade shift to India lately. Bangladesh is a manufacturer of textiles and apparel. India's textile industry is on the brink of expansion, with total textile exports projected to reach USD 65 billion by FY26, according to Invest India, which is the central government's investment promotion and facilitation agency. According to Invest India, the domestic textile market, valued at around USD 165 billion in 2022, includes USD 125 billion from domestic sales and USD 40 billion from exports. Projections indicate that the market will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10 per cent to reach USD 350 billion by 2030. In addition to its textile achievements, India has emerged as the second-largest manufacturer of personal protective equipment (PPE) globally. With over 600 certified PPE-producing companies, India is well-positioned in a market expected to exceed USD 92.5 billion by 2025, up from USD 52.7 billion in 2019. The textile industry is also a major employment driver, providing direct jobs to 45 million individuals and an additional 100 million in related sectors. Cotton cultivation alone supports an estimated 6 million farmers and 40-50 million people involved in processing and trade. India is one of the world's largest producers of textiles and apparel. (ANI) SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) On Sunday between the hours of 12:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., the Boys & Girls Club Family Center cooked up their annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner. Over 300 people came together in Springfield for good food and chance to get to know their neighbors. Rising costs add stress to holiday shopping and dinners We want to make sure that everyone is taken care of and the best way to do that is bring them together in one room, expressed the Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club Family Center, Keshawn Dodds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was a chance to get to know some in the community over holiday staples like turkey and mashed potatoes at the 8th annual Boys & Girls Club Community Thanksgiving Dinner. Im just so grateful, said Fredy Rumama of Springfield. Its just about coming togetherone on one, you know? There were about 16 turkeys prepared for the feast with the help of many local organizations like Lifepoint Church, and American International College. Giving back to the community does not stop when the dinner is over, all of the leftovers will be given to local shelters to help feed those less fortunate. The youth of the area look forward to this celebration each year, thankful for this home away from home. From kids to seniors, the Boys & Girls Club Family Center reminds families that the holidays are about coming together and giving. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We want to uplift our community and make sure that they know, that we know our neighbors, and make sure if people know youre in need, said Dodds. We do a lot of giving back. And the giving will continue throughout the next two months. Anyone in the community can stop by and grab an angel off the tree in the lobby. It will have a gender and an age, you can pick up a gift and bring it back to the Boys & Girls Club, and theyll make sure it gets delivered to the child. Jennifer Roy of Lifepoint Church told 22News, Its great to just be able to help in the community and to just be able to bring a smile to somebody elses face. A celebration to bring people together during the holidays, no matter the differences we face. The Boys & Girls Club Family Center of Springfield is located at 100 Acorn Street. You have until December 22nd to stop by and help out one of the angels, if you would like to take part in holiday giving for a child. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. The 2021 expanded child tax credit brought the child poverty rate in the U.S. to a historic low. But when Congress did not renew it, the child poverty rate went back up. If you bring a baby into the Hurley Childrens Center clinic in downtown Flint, Michigan, Mona Hanna will find you. The pediatrician, who gained national prominence for helping uncover the citys water crisis in 2015, strode across the waiting room in her white lab coat, eyes laser-focused on the chubby baby in the lap of an unsuspecting parent. Hi! Im Dr. Mona! she said warmly. Any chance you guys live in Flint? She learned the family is from neighboring Grand Blanc. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats so sad! Hanna said. You should move to Flint! And have another baby! And you could be part of the Rx Kids program! The parents chuckled politely. But the doctor was not kidding. Billed as the first-ever citywide cash aid program for pregnant moms and babies, Rx Kids gives Flint residents $1,500 mid-pregnancy, and $500 each month for the babys first year. There are no strings attached. No income limits. And its universal; nearly every baby born since the program launched in January is enrolled. Parents who bring their babies in for checkups at this clinic rattle off the ways the money has helped, from the cribs, diapers, clothes, and wipes theyve bought to how its kept them afloat during maternity leave or provided crucial income when a spouse died. But the true goal of Rx Kids goes far beyond Flint, as Hanna acknowledged, scooping up one of the Rx Kids babies in an exam room. Do you think we should do this for babies everywhere? What do you think? she asked, cooing. The baby gurgled happily, smiling. That was an affirmative yes. Cash Payments as a Tool To Reduce Child Poverty Many other countries, including Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, already offer a child cash benefit. The U.S. essentially did, too, during the coronavirus pandemic: The 2021 expanded child tax credit gave low- and middle-income families (including those previously excluded because of insufficient income) hundreds of dollars per kid in direct, monthly payments for six months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The child poverty rate fell to a historic low. But the expanded program expired at the end of 2021 and Congress did not renew it. The child poverty rate went back up. For Luke Shaefer, director of the Poverty Solutions initiative at the University of Michigans Ford School of Public Policy and a longtime advocate of child cash benefits, it was the most brutal day of his career. Soon after, he got an email from Hanna asking if he wanted to collaborate on the program that would become Rx Kids. The programs goals go beyond cash aid for Michigan families: It is also aimed at getting donors, lawmakers, and voters excited about how child cash benefits could help their communities. The list of the recently converted includes Republican state Sen. John Damoose, who has become an outspoken advocate for expanding Rx Kids. Referring to himself as a pro-life person, Damoose said, I sure as heck better be concerned about making it easier for mothers to make the decision to have their children. He said the Republican Party needs to get serious about supporting programs like Rx Kids. Weve been accused for years about being pro-birth, not pro-life. And I think thats not without merit. We need to put our money where our mouth is and support these children and support their mothers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Already, what once seemed like a moon shot is gaining traction: Shaefer and Hanna say their communications with Vice President Kamala Harris presidential campaign helped shape Harris baby bonus proposal. President-elect Donald Trumps campaign also supported expanding the child tax credit. Meanwhile, Michigan has budgeted some $20 million in state Temporary Assistance for Needy Families cash to partially fund an expansion of Rx Kids to a short list of communities, if those areas can raise local matching funds. Those areas include rural communities like Michigans remote eastern Upper Peninsula, part of which is in Damooses district. We want to make the tent as big as possible, Hanna said. But some Upper Peninsula health officials were initially wary. Each new Rx Kids community will need to raise millions of dollars in private donations to start and sustain the program in their community. It could be a good thing, Leann Espinoza, maternal-infant health program manager for the eastern Upper Peninsula, said in August. But Im not getting my hopes up. I know that sounds terrible. Upper Peninsula Families Fall Through the Cracks In the wood-paneled rec room of the Clark Township Community Center, Espinoza broke the news to her team this summer: Rx Kids is not a program the eastern Upper Peninsula will be able to fund on its own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its about $3 million that we would need to raise, she said, looking at three other LMAS District Health Department staff members. Tonya Winberg, the public health nurse for Mackinac County, looked stunned. Its just, where does that $3 million come from? Winberg asked. Other potential Rx Kids expansion sites, like Kalamazoo, have wealthy private foundations that can fund the program. The eastern Upper Peninsula does not. And how do we sustain it? Espinoza added. We hate to start programs, and then the funding is gone and we have to tell people, Its not here anymore; we cant do it anymore. The ruggedly beautiful and densely forested Upper Peninsula is used to feeling forgotten. Theres a running joke about how often its mislabeled as Canada or Wisconsin on maps. It has about a third of Michigans land mass, but just 3% of its residents. The sheer scale and sparse population mean options for food, housing, and child care are limited. Poverty rates are higher than the state average in much of Espinozas territory, and the region has some of the highest rates of newborns suffering from prebirth drug exposure in the state, according to the state health department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the community center, Espinoza and her colleagues start listing all the ways Rx Kids would be a lifesaver for families in the Upper Peninsula, many of whom have some income and some resources but dont make enough to make it, Espinoza said. The fall-through-the-cracks families. And those are the ones that I really, really, really think this program would benefit, especially up here. Espinozas next meeting was with one of those families. Jessica Kline and her 18-month-old daughter, Aurora, live in Munising, a tourist town on Lake Superior. Shes got a big personality, and her hair is red, so she came with a warning label, Kline said of her daughter, laughing. Aurora is a tiny force, speeding around the familys apartment, unfazed by the nasal tube that connects her to an oxygen machine. She was born early, at just 24 weeks gestation, weighing less than 2 pounds. No hospital in the Upper Peninsula was equipped to care for a preemie that young. So Aurora and her parents spent seven months at a hospital in Ann Arbor, five hours south of their home. We didnt have a reliable vehicle, Kline said. We didnt have a source of income. Hospital social services provided $19 a day for food, which Kline would save up to buy supplies for Aurora. When they finally got Aurora home to the Upper Peninsula, their house had been vandalized, the copper pipes stripped out. Espinozas team helped them find housing and drove them to get groceries. Every day is a series of small battles, from finding the medical supplies Aurora needs to figuring out how to get to a revolving door of specialists hundreds of miles away. Still, Auroras dad has a job in town. Theyve got family nearby. Theyre making it work, Kline said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But having a program like Rx Kids could have made a huge difference in her daughters first year. Five hundred dollars a month would have been enough to actually be able to get ourselves on our feet, she said. After Espinoza left Klines apartment, she drove south to her office in Manistique. It was late. Everyone else had gone home. Espinoza sat at her desk, trying to be pragmatic. She knows Rx Kids would not magically solve the lack of child care and housing and all the other things you need to break the cycle of poverty. But it would fix Klines car. It would help. There will undoubtedly be critics, Espinoza said people who believe parents will just use this money to buy drugs. What did they do to earn it? she imagined them saying. Youre just giving them free money, and they didnt do anything to get it? Because they dont understand. They dont understand the barriers. They dont understand that sometimes the choice isnt always yours. Like, Ive talked to moms who desperately want to go to work, and they want to support their family, but theres no child care. And so they have no other choice. Espinoza recently got an update from Rx Kids Hanna: Largely because of private foundations outside the Upper Peninsula, the program has raised enough money to fund a perinatal version of Rx Kids for five counties in the eastern Upper Peninsula. The perinatal program would provide the $1,500 payment mid-pregnancy, plus $500 a month for a babys first three months rather than the full year. But the goal really is the full program, so we are still raising money, Hanna said via email. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think its fantastic if we even just get the perinatal version to start, Espinoza said. Thats more than we had before. This article is from a partnership that includes Michigan Public, NPR, and KFF Health News.KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFFan independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism. Learn more about KFF. More must-reads: WASHINGTON Here's a look at how Georgia's members of Congress voted over the previous week. Along with roll call votes this week, the House also passed these measures without a vote: the Federal Acquisition Security Council Improvement Act (H.R. 9597) to make changes with respect to the Federal Acquisition Security Council; the Value Over Cost Act (H.R. 9596) to provide best value through the multiple award schedule program; and the Eliminate Useless Reports Act (H.R. 5301) to require agencies to include a list of outdated or duplicative reporting requirements in annual budget justifications. HOUSE VOTES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS: The House has passed the Social Security Fairness Act (H.R. 82) sponsored by Rep. Garret Graves, R-La., to repeal measures that reduce Social Security benefits for people who also receive a government pension, or who receive pension or disability funds from an employer that didn't withhold Social Security taxes for those funds. Graves said the change was a way to end "40 years of treating people differently, discriminating against a certain set of workers" because they worked for the government. An opponent, Rep. John B. Larson, D-Conn., said that by cutting funding available to pay Social Security benefits to the impoverished, the bill would "end up hurting the very people we are sworn to serve, the very people that Social Security was meant to protect." The vote, on Nov. 12, was 327 yeas to 75 nays, with 1 voting present. NAYS: Loudermilk R-GA (11th), Allen R-GA (12th), Scott, Austin R-GA (8th), Clyde R-GA (9th), Carter R-GA (1st), Johnson D-GA (4th), McCormick R-GA (6th), Collins R-GA (10th) YEAS: Bishop D-GA (2nd), Greene R-GA (14th), McBath D-GA (7th), Williams D-GA (5th) NOT VOTING: Scott, David D-GA (13th), Ferguson R-GA (3rd) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SOCIAL SECURITY AND GOVERNMENT WORKERS: The House has rejected the Equal Treatment of Public Servants Act (H.R. 5342) sponsored by Rep. Jodey C. Arrington, R-Texas. The bill would have changed the funding formula, under Social Security's windfall elimination provision for determining the amount of benefits paid to people with certain types of employment histories, mainly in government. Those people would generally receive more benefits. Arrington said the provision "has shortchanged roughly 2 million hardworking public servants," and the bill would fix that inequity without compromising the financial integrity of the Social Security trust fund. An opponent, Rep. John B. Larson, D-Conn., said that by reducing the pool of money available for other Social Security recipients, it would hurt the 5 million Americans who get less than poverty-level benefits. The vote, on Nov. 12, was 175 yeas to 225 nays, with 1 voting present. YEAS: Loudermilk R-GA (11th), Allen R-GA (12th), Scott, Austin R-GA (8th), Clyde R-GA (9th), Greene R-GA (14th), Carter R-GA (1st), McCormick R-GA (6th), Collins R-GA (10th) NAYS: Bishop D-GA (2nd), McBath D-GA (7th), Johnson D-GA (4th), Williams D-GA (5th) NOT VOTING: Scott, David D-GA (13th), Ferguson R-GA (3rd) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TAXES AND TERRORISM: The House has rejected the Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act (H.R. 9495) sponsored by Rep. Claudia Tenney, R-N.Y. The bill would have postponed tax filing deadlines and fines for Americans who are or have been held hostage or otherwise detained in foreign countries, and removed tax-exempt status for organizations deemed to be supporting terrorism. Tenney said: "No American who has suffered the injustice of wrongful detention or hostage taking by our adversaries should return home to face penalties and interest from their own government." A bill opponent, Rep. Donald S. Beyer, D-Va., said the tax exemption provision would wrongly give the executive branch "sweeping, unilateral authority to designate nonprofits as terror-supporting organizations and strip them of their tax-exempt status with no due process and without sufficient evidence." The vote, on Nov. 12, was 256 yeas to 145 nays, with a two-thirds majority required for approval. YEAS: Loudermilk R-GA (11th), Allen R-GA (12th), Scott, Austin R-GA (8th), Clyde R-GA (9th), Greene R-GA (14th), McBath D-GA (7th), Carter R-GA (1st), McCormick R-GA (6th), Collins R-GA (10th) NAYS: Bishop D-GA (2nd), Johnson D-GA (4th), Williams D-GA (5th) NOT VOTING: Scott, David D-GA (13th), Ferguson R-GA (3rd) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DEFINING CRITICAL MINERALS: The House has passed the Critical Mineral Consistency Act (H.R. 8446) sponsored by Rep. Juan Ciscomani, R-Ariz., to include on the U.S. Geological Survey's list of critical minerals all minerals that are on the Energy Department's list. Ciscomani said the absence of minerals such as copper, silicon, and fluorine from the Geological Survey's list, although they are on Energy's list, was "confusing to mineral producers and makes it unclear which minerals are critical to the United States' mission" of supply security. A bill opponent, Rep. Melanie A. Stansbury, D-N.M., said harmonizing the two lists would be a "multimillion-dollar giveaway to multinational corporations that are seeking to mine public lands." The vote, on Nov. 14, was 245 yeas to 155 nays. YEAS: Loudermilk R-GA (11th), Allen R-GA (12th), Scott, Austin R-GA (8th), Clyde R-GA (9th), Greene R-GA (14th), Carter R-GA (1st), Ferguson R-GA (3rd), McCormick R-GA (6th), Collins R-GA (10th) NAYS: Bishop D-GA (2nd), McBath D-GA (7th), Johnson D-GA (4th), Williams D-GA (5th) NOT VOTING: Scott, David D-GA (13th) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement REGULATING GEOTHERMAL ENERGY: The House has passed the Harnessing Energy At Thermal Sources Act (H.R. 7409) sponsored by Rep. Young Kim, R-Calif. The bill would remove various federal regulatory requirements for geothermal energy development on private and state lands. Kim said the removal "will lower costs for Americans, reduce emissions, protect our national security, and expand our energy portfolio." An opponent, Rep. Melanie A. Stansbury, D-N.M., said removing permitting measures would wrongly allow private companies to develop energy without a full process for reviewing potential environmental impacts and community impacts on the surrounding area and potentially hold them accountable for those impacts. The vote, on Nov. 14, was 225 yeas to 181 nays. YEAS: Loudermilk R-GA (11th), Allen R-GA (12th), Scott, Austin R-GA (8th), Clyde R-GA (9th), Greene R-GA (14th), Carter R-GA (1st), Ferguson R-GA (3rd), McCormick R-GA (6th), Collins R-GA (10th) NAYS: Bishop D-GA (2nd), McBath D-GA (7th), Johnson D-GA (4th), Williams D-GA (5th) NOT VOTING: Scott, David D-GA (13th) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SENATE VOTES: ILLINOIS JUDGE: The Senate has confirmed the nomination of April Perry to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. A prosecutor at the U.S. Attorney's Office for the district from 2004 to 2017, Perry has since been a corporate lawyer and a Cook County attorney. A supporter, Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., called her "a highly accomplished litigator whose breadth of experience in the government and the private sector makes her an outstanding nominee." The vote, on Nov. 12, was 51 yeas to 44 nays. YEAS: Ossoff D-GA, Warnock D-GA SECOND ILLINOIS JUDGE: The Senate has confirmed the nomination of Jonathan Hawley to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Central District of Illinois. A magistrate judge in the district for the past decade, Hawley was previously a district public defender. The vote, on Nov. 13, was 50 yeas to 46 nays. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement YEAS: Ossoff D-GA, Warnock D-GA GOVERNMENT ETHICS: The Senate has confirmed the nomination of David Huitema to be Director of the Office of Government Ethics for a five-year term. Huitema has been an ethics official at the State Department since 2006, handling issues including international pipelines, telecommunications, and Cuba policy. A supporter, Sen. Gary C. Peters, D-Mich., said: "Huitema has demonstrated a strong commitment to serving the American people with nonpartisan integrity and the highest ethical standards." The vote, on Nov. 14, was 50 yeas to 46 nays. YEAS: Ossoff D-GA, Warnock D-GA TAX COURT JUDGE: The Senate has confirmed the nomination of Cathy Fung to be a judge on the U.S. Tax Court for a 15-year term. Fung has been an Internal Revenue Service attorney, in various roles, since 2009. The vote, on Nov. 14, was 59 yeas to 37 nays. YEAS: Ossoff D-GA, Warnock D-GA Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) said Saturday that congressional Democrats are prepared to do whatever it takes in response to President-elect Trumps Cabinet picks. The incoming Senate majority leader, John Thune, has said all options are on the table to get Trump the team he wants as quickly as possible, including, perhaps, recess appointment, the Rev. Al Sharpton said to Padilla on MSNBCs PoliticsNation. That would sidestep the confirmation process. What are Democrats prepared to do in response? What are Democrats prepared to do in response? Whatever it takes, not just to uphold the Constitution of the United States, but you know the interest of the people here, Padilla said in a clip highlighted by Mediaite. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donald Trump is way beyond making a mockery of what an incoming president should be [doing], regardless of whos in the majority of Congress, Padilla said. These are people who are far from being qualified to be in the position that Donald Trump wants them in, he later added. President-elect Trump recently announced top officials to serve in his administration, including Fox News host Pete Hegseth for Defense secretary, former independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Health and Human Services (HHS) secretary and former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) for attorney general, sparking backlash from congressional Democrats. Rep. Pat Ryan (D-N.Y.), who served in the Army, called the choice of Hegseth to lead the Defense Department not a serious pick. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) said we would be talking about going back to the, what, the 1700s, 1800s, if Kennedy leads HHS. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was originally going to hold off on commenting on nominations at this stage but I cannot stay quiet here, Sen.-elect Andy Kim (D-N.J.) said in a Wednesday post on the social platform X. I dont need a confirmation hearing to know that Matt Gaetz is not qualified for Attorney General. I will not support his confirmation. The Hill has reached out to incoming Senate Majority Leader John Thunes (R-S.D.) office for comment. In a Sunday statement to The Hill, Trump transition team spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said the president-elect will serve ALL Americans, even those who did not vote for him in the election. He will unify the country through success, she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Updated at 1:28 p.m. EDT Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A pair of powerful congressional Republicans on Sunday blasted the Biden administration for waiting months to allow Ukraine to use long-range U.S. weapons inside Russia. The reported lifting of the restrictions on the Army Tactical Missile System does not excuse the administration's deliberate slow-walking of items and assistance long authorized by Congress for use against [Russian President Vladimir] Putin's illegal aggression, Armed Services ranking member Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) said in a statement. This devastating conflict could have been ended on terms benefiting the U.S. and NATO if Mr. Biden had listened to the counsel of bipartisan majorities in the House and Senate, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move, which comes as Ukrainian troops in Russias Kursk region brace for an assault by tens of thousands of Russian and North Korean troops, represents an about face for the White House which has long refused to allow Kyiv to use Army Tactical Missile Systems deep inside Russia. The New York Times and Reuters were the first to report the Biden administration was taking the long-awaited step. A U.S. official familiar with the situation confirmed the reports about long-range missiles. The issue has been hotly debated within the administration but the entry of North Korean troops onto the battlefield, and continued territorial losses by Ukrainian forces inside Ukraine, have sharpened Ukrainian demands for the extra firepower. Loosening the restrictions is the latest step from Biden to expand aid to Ukraine after he granted permission for U.S. military contractors to deploy to Ukraine to maintain advanced weapons systems like F-16s and Patriot missiles. That followed the State Departments effort this year to beef up the presence of American diplomats by adding several dozen people at the embassy in Kyiv. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wicker urged Biden last month to loosen restrictions on U.S. contractors in Ukraine and on strikes inside Russia, among other moves. House Intelligence Chair Mike Turner (R-Ohio) criticized Biden over the delay, calling the new move long overdue, saying, President Biden should have listened to President Zelenskyys pleas much earlier. He urged Biden to lift remaining limits without being specific. President Biden continues to impose restrictions on Ukraine that prevent Ukrainians from defending themselves and prevent this conflict from ending, Turner added. This first step will put pressure on Vladimir Putin as President-elect Trump returns to the White House and works to end this war. The decision is not likely to significantly alter battlefield dynamics, but the Ukrainian forces in Kursk are facing an expected assault by around 50,000 troops including 10,000 North Korean troops, and the weapons can be used to hammer convoys and weapons depots close to the front lines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden administration officials have long opposed the use of ATACMS widely in Russia, fearing a backlash from Moscow and a widening of the war. Pentagon officials have also said the limited stockpiles of ATACMS in the U.S. argue against having Ukraine use more of them. In a statement Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that one of the main points of the plan for victory he has briefed allies on for most of the fall includes long-range for our army, and while he acknowledged reports about the new authorization, blows are not inflicted with words. Such things are not announced. The rockets will speak for themselves. The move will also reportedly allow Ukrainian forces the ability to use long-range British and French Storm Shadow weapons inside Russia. The Pentagon declined to comment, and White House officials did not respond to repeated requests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move also comes as President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to forge a peace agreement immediately upon taking office, stoking fears he could reduce or cut off U.S. military support to Ukraine and press Ukraine to make unfavorable concessions. To improve Ukraines position, lawmakers in both parties have been pressing Biden for months to loosen restrictions on U.S. aid to Ukraine, including on its use of Army Tactical Missile Systems to strike inside Russia. Democrats reacting Sunday also said the step was overdue. A Biden ally, Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-Mass.), said the move was long overdue but still positive and urged that Ukraine be allowed to strike troop staging sites, missile launching hubs, and, most impactfully, oil refineries around Moscow. He argued NATO needs to demonstrate strength to Russia and other autocracies. That petroleum is the lifeblood of Putins war economy, Auchincloss, an Afghanistan vet, said on MSNBC. If they can impair the functioning of those oil refineries, all of which are in-range of U.S.-made weapons, they can grind to a halt Putins advances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House Foreign Affairs ranking member Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.) urged Trump not to stop what Biden was starting. Easing these restrictions is critical to safeguarding Ukraine's infrastructure, protecting civilians, and advancing its fight for freedom, he said in a statement. It also sends a clear message to our allies: The Biden administration is committed to a Ukrainian victory on Ukraine's terms. The incoming administration would be wise to continue this vital support." Trumps backers on Sunday framed the Biden administrations decision to lift targeting restrictions as a reckless escalation of the conflict just months before a new administration would take office in Washington. Biden, whose mental faculties are objectively failing, needlessly and recklessly escalates the Ukraine war, two months before [Trump] will no doubt end it, Kevin Roberts, the president of the conservative Heritage Foundation think tank, posted on X after reports of the decision began to emerge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Military Industrial Complex seems to want to make sure they get World War 3 going before my father has a chance to create peace and save lives, Donald Trump Jr. said on social media on Sunday. Gotta lock in those $Trillions. Life be damned!!! Imbeciles!" Silicon Valley investor David Sacks, a Trump donor and fundraiser, accused Biden of trying to hamstring the incoming commander-in-chief. President Trump won a clear mandate to end the war in Ukraine, Sacks said on social media. So what does Biden do in his final two months in office? Massively escalate it. Is his goal to hand Trump the worst situation possible? Biden last year approved sending the medium-range version of the missile but was still reluctant to send the long-range type Ukraine wanted. The Ukrainians used the medium-range missile to target arms depots and Russian training bases in occupied Crimea, inflicting serious damage on the Russian military. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian officials have repeatedly pressed for the U.S. to allow Kyiv to take the gloves off and use the missiles inside Russia as they see fit, but strikes have been limited to a small area around Sumy. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov has briefed U.S. officials on targets inside Russia that Ukraine would like to hit, including large ammunition depots and airfields, but Russia has already moved most major assets out of the missiles range, U.S. and Ukrainian officials have said. Ukraine has managed to inflict major damage on some of those weapons depots by using homemade drones laden with explosives, which have been able to void Russian air defenses to decimate warehouses further away from Ukraines border. But the decision comes at a time when Ukraines battlefield position has gotten increasingly precarious. Russia has tried to continue assaults against Ukrainian troops that are increasingly isolated in Kursk, including with multi-wave assaults, and Russian forces have made gains in parts of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, despite failing to reclaim areas surrounding the eastern city of Kharkiv. Russia also launched some of its largest-scale attacks against Ukraine in months this week, including firing 210 missiles and drones in attacks across the country on Saturday night and into Sunday morning, as the Kremlin looks to target both civilians and the electrical grid with winter beginning to set in. Nahal Toosi contributed to this article. HONOLULU (KHON2) The state Department of Land and Natural Resources said its Division of Conservation and Resource Enforcement has opened an investigation after five divers were rescued off Oahus East shore last week. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You The United States Coast Guard is also investigating the incident. A California man was on the boat and spoke with KHON2 to explain his version of what happened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HPD confirms death of man pulled from water at Three Tables Beach He said he was one of five divers, with one instructor and a boat captain aboard the Honey Ann on Wednesday, Nov. 6. The whole thing was just out of control, Arta Kashani said. I started going to this dive shop to get some training done and during the whole process I told them that I havent dove in about two years, and I need a refresher just so I feel better, he recalled. He said the dive shop told him theyd do a shallow dive, something easy, but the plan changed last minute, something the dive shop confirmed last week. They decided to do a 70-foot to 80-foot drift dive that I specifically told the dive master or instructor that Im not comfortable doing, Kashani said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said the weather was bad too, with poor visibility. Although uncomfortable with the situation and last-minute change of plans, he jumped in the water with the others. The current was just pulling everybody everywhere, he said. Kashani said divers were easily 10 to 15 feet away from one another instantly once they jumped in. Kashani was unable to equalize, and the dive instructor in the water told Kashani to go back to the boat with the captain while he went off with the other divers. Kashani said once he was on the boat, the divers quickly disappeared from sight. He recalled the time being around 11:15 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By around noon, Kashani said he asked the captain where the divers were and said he knew something was wrong. He said the boat started going in circles looking for them. But there was no sign of them. Kashani said he heard cries for help in the distance but the captain insisted it was another boat. Coast Guard rescues three from sinking boat near Honolulu Harbor I was under the impression that the captain called the Coast Guard and he called for help, Kashani said. He told me theres another boat looking for them and his boss called the Coast Guard and apparently that was all a lie. According to a responding sailboat and the Coast Guard, a nearby sailboat heard cries for help, saw the divers, offered assistance, and called the Coast Guard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The USCG said they were first notified about the situation by the sail boat at 1:33 p.m. and then quickly deployed a helicopter. The helicopter crew arrived on the scene at 1:50 p.m. after being diverted from a training evolution. At 1:51 p.m. the Honey Ann overheard the transmissions on VHF-FM channel 16 and contacted the command center to report they had been searching for five divers from their charter for 30 minutes (this was the first contact with the Coast Guard from the Honey Ann), the Coast Guard said in a statement. The CG helicopter instructed the Honey Ann to head towards the chopper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Coast Guard Cutter Oliver Berry crew arrived on scene at 1:55 p.m., a Coast Guard Station Honolulu 45-foot Response Boat-Medium crew arrived on scene at 1:58 p.m., then the Honey Ann arrived on scene at 2 p.m. and was able to bring the five divers aboard. The Honey Ann headed back to Hawaii Kai (Maunalua Bay) and reported the divers had no injuries and did not require medical attention. The cause of the incident is currently under investigation by Coast Guard Sector Honolulu. We cannot offer more details about the investigation or its potential outcome at this time, the statement added. Kashani said the five divers were in bad shape after being in the water for over two hours. One of them was in really bad shape, he recalled. Kashani said only one diver had a wetsuit on, the others had rash guards or shirts. He added he wasnt going to speak out about the incident because he assumed the captain tried to call for help, but was floored and disturbed when he found out he didnt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If I really knew he didnt do that I probably would have gotten physical with the guy because like thats how angry and stressed out I was, because he almost killed five people if you count me six. Kashani said he was refunded the full amount after leaving a scathing online review. He now wants to alert others about the company. The fact that you know the other five people almost died that really bothers me, he added. Following the investigation, the USCG and DLNR can decide whether or not the company will be fined or charged for the incident. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. There are new developments in the controversy over scholarships and grants established by the Orange County Supervisor of Elections, Glen Gilzean. Channel 9 told you that commissioners are getting ready to discuss whether they should sue their own elections office over the five million dollars in unauthorized spending. In a statement issued late Friday, Valencia College offered to return the $2.1 million that Gilzean sent them for those scholarships. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read: Rage growing in Orange County after election offices $5 million spending revelations The college president sent Channel 9 the following statement: Valencia College is grateful for the generous support of our many community partners. We appreciate the forward thinking of the Orange County Supervisor of Elections who expressed a goal to increase voter registration and college-going rates in underserved communities through the establishment of the Orange County Promise of the Future Scholarship Fund. The recent success of a similar program, Osceola Prosper, gives us optimism about the success of this scholarship fund. Osceola Prosper provides scholarships for all graduating high school seniors and is funded by the Osceola County Commission. Osceola Prosper resulted in a substantial increase in Osceola Countys college-going rate, which is now, for the first time ever, higher than Orange Countys. At the same time, the Osceola Prosper program eliminated disparities in the college-going rate in historically underrepresented communities. Our hope is that the students at Evans and Jones High Schools, which have among the lowest college-going rates in Orange County, benefit from the scholarships contemplated by the Orange County Promise of the Future Scholarship Fund. Although it would be disappointing if students do not have access to these scholarships, if Orange County asks for the return of the funds, Valencia will return the $2.1 million contribution." Dr. Kathleen Plinske The offer came a week after WFTV unearthed a contract between the Orange County Supervisor of Elections and Valencia College, allocating $2.1 million for scholarships for Jones and Evans High School students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Wednesday, Mayor Jerry Demings discovered the office signed a deal with CareerSource that gave the job seeking nonprofit an additional $1.9 million. Read: Orange County schools cancel pep rallies amid scholarship controversy Thursday, commissioners and the county took another look at a $1 million grant program Gilzean set up with regional nonprofits, including the YMCA, Goodwill and a diabetes organization. The grants, which were previously announced, were for voter outreach and education. Depending on the amount received, organizations are required to hold events, record videos, post on social media and for the biggest grants adopt a precinct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read: Only on 9: Orange County SOE creates scholarship with tax dollars, naming it after himself Gilzean has maintained that as a constitutional officer, he is allowed to spend the budget the county gave him as he sees fit. State law requires all unspent funds to be returned to commissioners. In past years, the elections office has returned between $1 million and $3 million. The county was expecting to receive $800,000 from Gilzean on October 1. Budget executives said the actual amount was more than $100,000 short. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. CHICAGO (WTVO) An off-duty police officer was shot at and returned fire on a suspect in the South Loop, the Civilian Office of Accountability reported. Around 3:45 a.m., the officer said she saw two suspects approach a 25-year-old man on a sidewalk near the 100 block of West Polk Street. The 25-year-old female officer drove up to the suspects when she was fired at by one of the suspects, WLS reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She then returned fire at the suspect, according to police. No one is currently in custody and no one was hit by gunfire in the exchange. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports. DALLAS, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) A sensory playground for kids with autism is one step closer to reality Saturday night in Luzerne Countys Back Mountain. The Dallas Rotary Club held Cornhole with a Cop, Saturday at Fellowship Church. The cornhole fundraiser also featured raffles. The event aimed to raise roughly 7,500 dollars toward the more than 100,000 dollar price tag for a sensory playground at Dallas Intermediate School. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Organizers say it is not only about raising money but also building bridges between police and the community. $2M grant awarded towards Community Recreational Campus Honestly I cant be Im overwhelmed, I am. I didnt know how it was gonna turn out, Im nervous that people werent gonna show, said Sgt. Todd Adams Dallas PD the event coordinator. The rotary is not stopping here. The Rotary has three more events planned to reach its goal for the sensory playground in the Back Mountain. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com. Extreme weather, including torrential monsoon downpours and a powerful typhoon, reduced rubber production levels in Asia and sent prices soaring to 13-year highs, according to Reuters. What's happening? A series of extreme weather events for regions that rely on rubber trees for rubber production hit the industry hard this year. First came a prolonged drought that dragged on for at least three months. Temperatures in Thailand climbed well over 100 degrees as a heat wave scorched Southeast Asia in April. That was followed by devastating monsoonal floods that killed dozens and caused an estimated $1.3 billion in agriculture losses. Southeast Asia was still recovering from the flooding when the record-breaking Typhoon Yagi made landfall in China. It was the strongest storm to hit the country in a decade. At its peak, the Category 5 hurricane had maximum sustained winds of 160 miles, per the Washington Post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hurricane made landfall in China's Hainan Province in early September. Yagi damaged 16,000 hectares (almost 40,000 acres) of rubber trees in the major source region of Hainan, according to Reuters. That represented about 2.1% of China's total rubber area, per data from WhatNext Rubber cited in the report. "These fluctuations can drastically impact the tapping frequency of rubber trees and overall latex production," Farah Miller, the founder of Helixtap, a company that deals with rubber industry data, told Reuters. Helixtap estimates that Thailand accounts for about a third of global rubber production, per Reuters. However, the impacts of the extreme weather, which included a large number of days during the peak harvest season disrupted by excessive rain and floods, took a toll. Helixtap estimated the country would see a production decline of 10% to 15%. Why is extreme weather raising rubber prices in Asia so important? Our warming world played a big part in the extreme weather events that have challenged the rubber-growing regions of Asia. Scientists with World Weather Attribution say our overheating planet increased the frequency and severity of deadly heat waves that affected millions of highly vulnerable people in the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We observe a strong climate change signal in the 2024 April mean temperature," a WWA analysis noted. "We find that these extreme temperatures are now about 45 times more likely and 0.85C hotter. These results align with our previous studies, where we found that climate change made the extreme heat about 30 times more likely and 1C hotter." Climate Impacts Tracker Asia is another organization that publishes in-depth studies that identify the causes of changing global temperatures and its impact locally and globally. Do you think America could ever go zero-waste? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind "Research shows that storms like Typhoon Yagi are becoming more intense due to human-driven climate change, primarily driven by the burning of coal, oil, and gas for energy," CITA wrote. "Analysis by scientists at ClimaMeter found that tropical depressions near Vietnam are now up to 20% wetter and 5% windier than in previous decades due to climatic changes." What's being done about our warming world's influence on extreme weather events? Heat-trapping gases are raising the world's temperature and the risk of many types of extreme weather. People in vulnerable parts of the world need our help, and raising awareness is one way to take action. To start, we can use our voices to get the message out by talking about climate issues with our friends and family. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. India could potentially save about USD 10 billion annually by expanding insurance penetration to those people and assets that are still uninsured, according to a report by global consultancy management firm McKinsey. In a report put out by the agency after having a ground survey covering insurers and the people, they said Indian government could then redirect these saved funds to stimulate economic growth. A significant portion of India's citizens and insurable assets remain uninsured, increasing the risks of high out-of-pocket expenses, placing a considerable burden on public finances. Insurance provides dual benefits, offering financial coverage against exigencies and promoting long-term financial security. "The sector not only has the ability to bolster India's socioeconomic development but can also channel capital toward developmental projects through the premiums collected," McKinsey argued in the report titled 'Steering Indian insurance from growth to value in the upcoming techade'. In the report, McKinsey noted that comprehensive life insurance coverage could assist the government in alleviating the burden of providing ex gratia benefits to families affected by the unfortunate loss of life or livelihood due to accidents and other unforeseen events. Rising costs of healthcare in India, a growing middle class, and greater awareness of the need for insurance coverage following the pandemic, and supportive regulations have combined to boost a rapid growth and profitability. Insurance sector regulator Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDAI) has committed to achieving "Insurance for All" by 2047. Despite the regulator's target of "Insurance for All" by 2047, the industry's penetration rate slipped from 4.2 per cent in 2022 to 4.0 per cent in 2023, indicating that its progress has not been on par with the country's economic growth, said the report, quoting publicly available data. IRDAI is also working to improve insurance affordability. It has mandated lower premiums for sales through direct channels to encourage insurers to cut distribution costs and pass savings to policyholders. (ANI) Members of the Johnson County Commissioners Court on Monday unanimously voted to name the Johnson County Emergency Communications Center after former Johnson County Sheriffs Office Deputy George Alvis Robinson. Robinson in one of two JCSO deputies killed in the line of duty. Robinson died on Feb. 11, 1971, after his patrol car crashed while he was responding to reports of a possible burglary in process in the far west side of the county. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Robinsons patrol car collided with a donkey that walked into the road while Robinson was traveling dark county back roads that night while responding to the call. The impact caused Robinsons car to veer off the road and come to rest out of sight of passing traffic. Law enforcement officers from throughout the county joined in the search but Robinson was not located until the following morning. County Commissioner Mike White, himself a former law enforcement officer, presented the renaming proposal to the court. Deputy Robinsons death having happened quite a while ago, a lot of people around now dont know or never knew he was a deputy here, White said. I think renaming the call center after him would be a good way to have his name out there in the public and to show his family how much we appreciate his service and sacrifice. County Judge Chris Boedeker called Whites proposal a great idea as did fellow commissioners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think that would be a good way to honor how important Johnson County and his service here were to Deputy Robinson, Commissioner Kenny Howell said. And something I think will mean a lot to his family and our county residents. Tragedy, unfortunately, ran in the Robinson family, Sheriff Adam King said. Deputy Robinsons son also died in the line of duty in 1962 while serving as an officer in the Corsicana Police Department, King said. So, the Robinson family has given a lot to law enforcement. Robinsons son, Sgt. Robert Glenwood Robinson, died Dec. 23, 1962, after being shot. Robert Robinson was shot and killed that day during a traffic stop while writing a citation to a man who held a grudge against him, according to the Officer Down Memorial Page website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the stop, the man jumped out of the car and shot Sgt. Robinson in the head with a sawed-off shotgun. Robinson over the years had charged the man with several citations and the man had threatened to kill him, according to the webpage. The shooter fled but was arrested a short time later and sentenced to 99 years in prison although he was later paroled. Robert Robinson, 32 years old at the time of his death, had served four years with the Corsicana Police Department. George Robinson also worked for the Corsicana Police Department at the time of his sons death. King noted that another of George Robinsons sons served as a Texas State Trooper. We host members of Deputy Robinsons family every year on the anniversary of his passing, King said. They come in from all over. Most still live in Corsicana and east Texas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The countys new dispatch center the former center was housed in the jail opened in June. I think the Feb. 11 anniversary would be a good date dedicate the naming of the center after Deputy Robinson and unveil the new sign, Howell said. White agreed and made a motion to do just that, a motion fellow court members voted in support of. Boedeker, in commending Whites proposal, recalled former JCSO Deputy Clifton Taylor as well. While responding to a domestic disturbance call on April 23, 2011, Taylor was shot and killed. The Johnson County Law Enforcement Center was subsequently named after Deputy Taylor as was a stretch of Interstate 35W, Boedeker said. So I think this idea of naming our call center after Deputy Robinson is highly appropriate and fitting as well. CHICAGO Chicago police are searching for a group of suspects believed to be responsible for over a dozen armed robberies in the city. The suspects have so far targeted the Archer Heights, Bronzeville, Chicago Lawn, Gage Park, Hyde Park, South Loop, Washington Park and Woodlawn neighborhoods and police said the incidents happened at the following times and locations: 100 block of W. Polk St on October 19, 2024 at 2:45 a.m. (South Loop) 1400 block of E. 57th St on October 19, 2024 at 3:12 a.m. (Hyde Park) 5300 block of S. Dorchester Ave on November 10, 2024 at 12:35 a.m. (Hyde Park) 5700 block of S. Maplewood Ave on November 10, 2024 at 2:19 a.m. (Gage Park) 5600 block of S. St Louis Ave on November 10, 2024 at 2:50 a.m. (Gage Park) 2600 block of W. 63rd St on November 10, 2024 at 2:58 a.m. (Chicago Lawn) 6500 block of S. Campbell Ave on November 10, 2024 at 3:03 a.m. (Chicago Lawn) 6200 block of S. Dr Martin Luther King Jr Dr on November 14, 2024 at 4:40 a.m.(Washington Park) 4700 block of S. Dr Martin Luther King Jr Dr on November 14, 2024 at 4:35 a.m. (Bronzeville) 6000 block of S. Stony Island Ave on November 14, 2024 at 5:00 a.m. (Woodlawn) 5800 block of S. Artesian Ave on November 14, 2024 at 5:30 a.m. (Gage Park) 5300 block of S. Kedzie Ave on November 14, 2024 at 5:44 a.m. (Gage Park) 5400 block of S. Kedzie Ave on November 14, 2024 at 5:45 a.m. (Gage Park) 5700 block of S. Rockwell St on November 14, 2024 at 5:48 a.m. (Gage Park) 5700 block of S. Kedzie Ave on November 14, 2024 at 5:55 a.m. (Gage Park) 5400 block of S. Kedzie Ave on November 14, 2024 at 6:30 a.m. (Gage Park) 4400 block of S. Pulaski Rd on November 15, 2024 at 12:10 a.m. (Archer Heights) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least three incidents happened in the 15th Ward, served by Ald. Raymond Lopez. When I see situations like this, my heart goes out to the community, because its not something that you can plan for, Lopez said. Police described the suspects as a group of three to six men between 18 and 25 years of age. They were wearing dark clothing and ski masks while committing the crimes. COPA investigates after off-duty officer involved in shooting in South Loop Police added the suspects have been armed with handguns. They also reportedly pistol-whipped or beat their victims in several incidents. We have to stand up and not just assume that this is a low-level crime, because we see so often that routine crimes of opportunity become deadly situations, Lopez said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspects also reportedly stole one of their victims vehicles, but abandoned it on the same block. (Source: Chicago Police Department) (Source: Chicago Police Department) The suspects are known to drive to and from their crimes in two stolen black Maseratis and two stolen black Jeep Grand Cherokees, according to investigators. On the morning of Thursday, Nov. 14, the suspects reportedly hit nine different spots in less than two hours, most of them in the Gage Park neighborhood. Chicago TikTok historian Shermann Dilla Thomas laid off by ComEd despite promises of job security My understanding is law enforcement is trying to identify the path to see if there are any other victims or if anything else has happened, Lopez said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Surveillance cameras in Chicago Lawn captured the suspects in the area. Chicago Lawn residents said they are worried for their safety. Several said one of the victims just recently moved to the area. Crimes of opportunity like this happen when individuals have no regard for neighborhoods or people and theyre trying to rob whomever they find out on the street at that very moment, Lopez said. Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines Lopez encourages all residents to be vigilant of their surroundings and to trust their instincts if something feels off. He also stressed the importance of saying something if you see something. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No one should feel victimized and feel alone at the same time. We are here for them, Lopez said. CPD would like to remind the public to never resist a robbery because no life is worth losing over property. Lopez added its important to report your vehicle as stolen immediately after its been taken so police can determine if its being used in other crimes. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. A major emergency fire at a strip mall in Hollywood destroyed a business and forced street closures on Saturday evening, according to authorities. The blaze, first reported at about 4:21 p.m., took place at a one story, L-shaped strip mall located at 1306 North Highland Avenue. According to the Los Angeles Fire Department, the fire destroyed an AutoZone store. Crews on Saturday battled a structure fire at 1306 N Highland Avenue in Hollywood. (KTLA) Also suffering from heavy damages in the blaze were Fat Sals Deli and Sushi Ajito, although it wasnt immediately clear if the damage would force the establishments to close for an extended period. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of 8 p.m., there were no injuries reported and the cause of the fire hadnt been determined. Initial reporters told authorities that they believe the fire involved a battery located inside AutoZone. Fire crews ordered a full closure of northbound and southbound Highland Avenue, between DeLongpre and Lexington Avenues. As of 8 p.m., its unclear when theyll reopen. Travelers are encouraged to find alternate routes and avoid the area. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) Crime Stoppers of El Paso and the El Paso Police Department are asking for your help in identifying a man who robbed two convenience stores with a gun in West El Paso and the Upper Valley back in October. This is this weeks featured Crime of the Week, as publicized by Crime Stoppers of El Paso. The first robbery happened at 8 p.m. on Oct. 28 when the suspect walked into a Circle K store at 5665 S. Desert Blvd. at Redd Road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect approached the register, threatened the clerk with a handgun and demanded money, according to Crime Stoppers. The suspect then fled the scene with an unknown amount of money, Crime Stoppers said. The next day, a similar robbery took place at 8:30 p.m. at another Circle K store, located at 6410 Doniphan at Borderland Road. According to Crime Stoppers, the suspect is described as a Hispanic male and is 5 foot, 10 inches tall with a thin build. Investigators found video of a vehicle believed to be involved in the robberies, according to Crime Stoppers. Anyone with any information on the identity of this armed robber should call Crime Stoppers of El Paso immediately at (915) 566-8477 (TIPS) or visit online at www.cselpaso.org. You will remain anonymous, and if your tip leads to an arrest, you may qualify for a cash reward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. Close your eyes and make a list of the most important issues in the 2024 election. Maybe you thought of the cost of living, abortion, immigration, democracy, climate change, gun violence, the war in Gaza, the Supreme Court. If youre like the vast majority of voters, the word you probably didnt think of is cryptocurrency. But in the last year, the crypto industry quietly became the biggest corporate spender of the entire 2024 election. According to a report from the nonprofit watchdog Public Citizen, nearly half of the $274 million in corporate money contributed during this years elections came from crypto firms. For comparison, the second biggest spender, Koch Industries the corporation made famous by Jane Mayers opus Dark Money gave $40 million to its Super PAC, Americans for Prosperity Action. Kochs firm and employee PAC only put around $6 million toward electing Republicans to Congress. After its 2024 spending spree, crypto industry cash is poised to account for a staggering 15 percent of all known corporate contributions made since the Supreme Courts 2010 ruling in Citizens United, the watchdog group found. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sheer scale of the spending is unprecedented and unlike anything that we have seen before, says Rick Claypool, who authored the report for Public Citizen. He likens it to a political money Death Star that theyre just sort of aiming at the candidates and races. The industrys donations appear to be both about achieving its narrow policy agenda a demand for light-touch regulation in Washington as well as striking fear into candidates hearts about the possibility theyll spend against them. If crypto regulations didnt crack your top 10 election issues, youre not alone. For a lot of people in Washington, it hadnt registered. At the Democratic National Convention in July, I spoke with a Treasury Department staffer who just shrugged when I asked whether they were concerned about the rising influence of the crypto industry in Washington. Who represents them? The staffer asked. Can you think of a single Senator or Congressperson who is working to advance their interests? I couldnt. Cryptocurrencies, or digital currencies, have, until now, been an afterthought or worse in Washington. Just ask Bernie Moreno, the newly-minted senator from Ohio. Ten years ago, it was the laughingstock of the tech world, Moreno said of the crypto industry in October. Here you are 10 years later, and theyre going to be decisive in helping Republicans win the United States Senate. And they were: This cycle, the crypto industrys Super PACs poured $133 million into federal races around the country. The industry spent more than $40 million on the Ohio Senate race, where it helped unseat the crypto-skeptical chair of the Senate Banking Committee, Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres a reason that crypto hasnt ranked at the top of mind for most politicians or voters until now: It has no real use-case or intrinsic value. On the other hand, according to the Pew Research Center, roughly 17 percent of U.S. adults say they have owned cryptocurrency a figure thats remained relatively static for the past three years. In recent years, several crypto companies have blown up amid claims of fraud or that they operated as Ponzi schemes. During the Biden administration, the industry has faced unprecedented scrutiny, as regulators took aim at some of the most prominent firms in the crypto business including Coinbase and Ripple for allegedly selling unregistered securities. Some players in the industry have printed oodles of cash and began deploying it in an effort to will themselves into the position of power players. By the time I had that conversation this summer, the industry, led by Coinbase and Ripple, was already mounting an aggressive campaign to ensure that politicians would begin taking cryptocurrency very seriously. That campaign started in earnest this February, when Fairshake, the primary crypto industry-funded Super PAC began pouring money into the California Senate primary, in a single-minded effort to ensure Orange Countys progressive congresswoman, Katie Porter, went down in defeat. There were two oddities about this investment. For one thing, while Porter was not an industry ally, she was not a particularly outspoken crypto critic; for another, she was already expected to lose. Fairshake ended up spending more than $10 million roughly one-third of the total Porter raised for her Senate bid on ads attacking Porters character. As a person familiar with the PACs strategy explained to the New Yorker earlier this year, the group had an explicit goal in mind, and it wasnt just to ensure that Porter lost. It was to terrify other politiciansto warn anyone running for office that, if you are anti-crypto, the industry will come after you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fairshake appeared to replicate this strategy when it waded into other races in which progressive incumbents without significant political positions on crypto were already cruising toward losses: Jamaal Bowman and Cori Bush, both of whom were targeted by another interest group, American Israel Public Affairs Committee or AIPAC, over their criticism of Israel. (Fairshake did not respond to a request for comment.) Meanwhile, the crypto PACs did not target their most outspoken critic in Congress, Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, who was up for reelection this year. She is perhaps the strongest opponent of crypto on the Hill, her Republican challenger was basically running on a cryptocurrency platform and, despite that, he received no backing from the major cryptocurrency PAC And he lost his race by a huge margin, says Molly White, who writes about the crypto industry in her newsletter Citation Needed. Partly what was going on here is that they were trying to back winners so they could then come and say, Look, we swept [the races we played in]. Now that the dust has settled on the 2024 elections, a picture is starting to emerge of just how successful the industrys efforts were: All three of the candidates Fairshake spent against, per an accounting by OpenSecrets Porter, Bowman and Bush went down in defeat, while only 4 of 26 candidates they backed lost their races. (Two of those races remain uncalled, and two other candidates the PAC backed were not running for reelection this year.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So after spending all that money, what does the industry actually want? If you look at the top spenders to these super PACs, basically every single one of them has some kind of enforcement action if not multiple enforcement actions open against them, White says. For years now, the standard line has been that the industry wants clear regulation in reality, companies want more favorable regulation and regulators. White explains, When you actually look at how they have reacted to both the enforcement of existing regulations and proposed regulations, and it doesnt really stand up to scrutiny that they actually want regulations, because they have strongly opposed the enforcement of very standard financial regulations on their products thus far. Pretty much any time some sort of legislation or proposal comes up that would seek to regulate the industry or offer more consumer protections, they are vehemently against it. Generally speaking, at the moment, any Bitcoin related companies are governed by the commodities regulator, while the Securities and Exchange Commission has generally maintained that other cryptocurrencies ought to be regulated by the SEC itself a position that cryptocurrency companies generally oppose and are actively challenging in several cases that currently being litigated, White says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his 2024 bid, President-elect Donald Trump actively courted crypto firms, pitching himself as the crypto president. He pledged to make America the crypto capital of the planet and the bitcoin superpower of the world, demanding crypto only be mined in the U.S. despite its massive energy use and negative local impacts. Trump pledged to promptly fire SEC chair Gary Gensler and replace him with a regulator who is friendly to the industry. Now that Trump won and Republicans have secured a governing trifecta in Washington, the crypto industry appears to have won the friendly regulatory environment it spent so much money to cultivate. And its not resting on its laurels: Fairshake already has $78 million on hand for the next cycle. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The cryptocurrency industry emerged as one of the biggest winners of the 2024 election, with 273 pro-crypto candidates winning U.S. House seats and 19 securing Senate positions, according to latest data compiled by Stand with Crypto tracker. A crypto rally followed the Nov. 5 reelection of Donald Trump, who had pledged to turn the U.S. into the "crypto capital of the planet. Bitcoin surged above $93,000 for the first time a week later, and other cryptocurrencies like ether, solana and especially dogecoin got a boost. Overall, the crypto industry saw the electoral results as a huge win that could push development of digital assets in the country. "When I look at that map, what I see is a purple wave," says Kara Calvert, head of U.S. policy at Coinbase, one of the major crypto exchanges and biggest donors in the latest election cycle. "The crypto advocates, the people who showed up at the ballot, are really going to demonstrate that crypto showed up in a big way." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The election also marked the transformation of crypto from a fringe technology movement into Washington's newest power broker, but this swift ascension is raising questions about the future of money in American democracy. Crypto corporations alone poured over $119 million into the 2024 elections accounting for 44% of all corporate political spending, according to data compiled by nonprofit watchdog Public Citizen. Koch Industries, a traditional heavyweight among political donors, came in second. Only fossil fuel companies have spent more since 2010, when the Supreme Court's ruling in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission opened the floodgates for corporate spending in elections, according to the data. "Over those 14 years, these huge expenditures from the crypto corporations in just the 2024 cycle brought them up to being the second-most politically spending active sector," noted Rick Claypool, the author of a Public Citizen report tracking corporate political influence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Ohio, cryptocurrency industry groups spent over $40 million to help Republican Bernie Moreno, a blockchain firm founder, defeat pro-regulation Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown in the states Senate race. In multiple states, super PACs funded by the crypto industry ran ads that had nothing to do with crypto, Politico reported. The momentum has led some to sound the alarm about the deep pockets playing an increasingly pivotal role in American politics. The crypto oligarchy is big right now, and its dangerous, said former U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill, a Democrat from Missouri, as she spoke on a Nov. 13 "Impolitic" podcast hosted by John Heilemann. New chapter for crypto power players For crypto advocates, the election has renewed optimism and created an opportunity for a more favorable regulatory environment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This has been an incredibly exciting three years where we have seen the crypto industry really lock arms again, from big business to small startups, and thinking about how crypto policy will shape not just this industry, but the future economy," Calvert said. We've definitely turned the corner as an industry, the Congress well be dealing with next year will be the most pro-crypto yet, said Kristin Smith, CEO of the Blockchain Association. Most politicians have learned that there's no upside to being anti-crypto, and so I think there's going to be a willingness to get something done. Analysts at venture capital firm Andreeseen Horowitz, one of the biggest crypto donors in the latest election cycle, are also upbeat about the industry's future. "We're very optimistic that the government will now foster innovation, accelerate progress and enable the crypto ecosystem to thrive in the U.S.," Miles Jennings, Michele Korver and Brian Quintenz wrote in a joint post. "The future of crypto in the U.S. is bright it's the perfect time to build here, and we're excited about the possibility for regulatory clarity to finally come." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The industry's policy agenda and wish list are substantial. Top priorities include replacing U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Gary Gensler, a Biden nominee whom they view as hostile to digital assets, and passing the Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act, or FIT21, bill to create a federal framework for regulations. Candidates under consideration to lead the SEC include Daniel Gallagher, a former SEC official now at Robinhood, and current Republican SEC commissioners Hester Peirce and Mark Uyeda, according to the Washington Post. The crypto industry's influence is likely to be felt in future elections. Coinbase and Andreeseen have contributed additional funding to Fairshake, a super PAC that funds pro-crypto candidates and has approximately $78 million to use in the 2026 midterms. Stand with Crypto, a group that currently has 1.9 million advocates across the country, aims to reach 4 million advocates by the midterms, according to figures cited by Coinbase's CEO. Oversight concerns Crypto's resurgence, just years after the scandals of FTX and other failed crypto exchanges, raises questions about who will keep crypto donors in check and consumers safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The industry's influence stems largely from a handful of wealthy players a concentration of power that mirrors the financial system crypto pioneers once railed against. "When you look at [Federal Election Commission] data, it's a really small number of companies and individuals who comprise the majority of the donations," said Mark Hays, a senior policy analyst at Americans for Financial Reform. Hays said crypto's legislative agenda can sometimes amount to seeking exemptions from fundamental consumer protections. "I don't think this is about an industry that tried to find regulatory common ground," Hays said. "The industry has pushed back on most of the existing regulatory framework anti-money laundering rules, tax reporting, even environmental emissions reporting." Crypto now faces a critical period to capitalize on its electoral momentum and secure meaningful regulatory reform, which will likely shape the future of digital assets in America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There is a real opportunity to work toward bipartisan legislation before the end of the year," Calvert said. "The big question is, what can happen in [six] weeks? Can stablecoin legislation happen? Can market structure legislation happen? Can we make sure that the [Commodity Futures Trading Commission] gets the necessary authority to regulate spot markets?" For industry leaders like Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong, its a matter of survival. "What we won't tolerate are politicians trying to unlawfully destroy our industry, or take the rights of our customers away," he wrote in a Nov. 6 post on X in response to the election results. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Day two of the Culinary Workers Unions strike was in full effect outside of the Virgin Hotels Las Vegas Saturday as 700 union workers took to the streets to fight for better pay. The Culinary Union and Virgin Hotels are still at odds after a meeting was held to address concerns over a tentative agreement for a union contract. However, in the end, no agreement could be made. Its unfair, with different departments, theyre pulling in people from outside and paying them close to double of our hourly wage so if they can do that, why cant they just give us what were asking for? union worker Debbie told 8 News Now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those protesting said they want comparable wages to their counterparts on the Strip. What they expect is for the company to settle the same contract like the Stratosphere and Sahara. The standard contract of the Las Vegas strip. This company has plenty of money so they could settle a contract now, Secretary-treasurer of the Culinary Workers Union Ted Pappageorge said. The bargaining between the hotel the its union workers has lasted for nearly a year and a half as the previous contract expired on June 1, 2023, according to Pappageorge. Union workers like Micheal Smith, who already works two jobs said he is tired of just getting by. People are literally living check to check or less than and even government assistance isnt helping and you can only make so much to qualify for government assistance and even then, youre still not able to make ends meet so its a struggle everywhere we turn, Smith told 8 News Now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Saturday evening Virgin Hotels Las Vegas released the following statement thanking the individuals who applied to fill shortages resulting from the strike: On November 15, day one of the Culinary Workers Union 226 (Culinary Union) strike, more than 350 individuals lined up to apply to fill any shortages resulting from the strike. Today, on day two of the strike, 310 people showed up to apply. Applicants included a mix of those seeking temporary employment, and contract workers from various agencies. We were overwhelmed with interest and, unfortunately, had to turn away 100 people. Many of the individuals applying to work with Virgin Hotels Las Vegas had been laid off by other properties following their acceptance of the Culinary Unions economically unsustainable contract. Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is grateful for the dedication and professionalism of all team members, and to all new applicants for their support. The entire Virgin Hotels Las Vegas team is ready to provide the exceptional guest experience we are known for. Virgin Hotels Las Vegas remains focused on reaching a reasonable agreement that benefits all 1,710 team members. We urge the Culinary Union to let their members vote on our proposal. Virgin Hotels Las Vegas Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. (NEXSTAR) Deer hunting season is upon us across the Midwest, prompting a reminder from wildlife officials: Be on the lookout for chronic wasting disease, or CWD. CWD is a contagious, fatal, neurological illness that can impact not only white-tailed deer, but other North American cervids like mule deer, elk, and moose. It was first discovered in the U.S. in 1967 and has since been detected in more than 30 states, though officials note it may be present in other states but not yet detected. Seeing more deer lately? Wisconsin DNR explains why Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If youre planning to hunt any deer this year, here are four things to know about chronic wasting disease, including whether it can impact humans and if an infected deers meat is safe to eat. What is chronic wasting disease? Often referred to as CWD, chronic wasting disease is a prion disease, which means the proteins in the body are misfolding. This will cause symptoms that will eventually lead to death, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains. CWD is contagious and believed to be spread when an animal comes in contact with an infected animals saliva, blood, urine, feces, or carcass. It may also spread through the environment, the CDC notes, like soil, drinking water or food. The Voice winner hospitalized after accidentally shooting himself Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once an animal gets sick, the disease moves to its brain and spine and eventually kills the animal, the CDC says. There is no treatment or vaccine for CWD. What are the signs and symptoms of CWD? A deer may not show any signs of CWD until 18 to 24 months after becoming infected, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Arguably the most obvious sign is drastic weight loss, or wasting. You may also notice the deer stumbling or lacking coordination, lacking fear of people, or drooling. Additional symptoms include drooping ears, an appearance of listlessness, or excessive thirst or urinating. A white-tailed deer showing symptoms of chronic wasting disease (M. W. Miller, Colorado Division of Wildlife, via the Associated Press) The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources lists other behavioral symptoms linked to CWD: teeth grinding, a rough dull coat, walking in set patterns, and difficulty swallowing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just because a deer (or other cervid) displays any of these signs, it does not mean they have CWD. The symptoms may have other causes, the USGS explains. The only way to confirm a deer or animal has CWD is through testing. Think your deer may have CWD? Heres what to do Testing requirements and availability may vary by state. In parts of Ohio, for example, deer harvested on certain days must be submitted for sampling. Colorado has also designated specific areas for CWD testing this year. In Wisconsin, all hunters are encouraged to test their deer using either self-service kiosks, where a deer head with 5 inches of neck can be dropped off; cooperating partners that can collect the head for sampling; at-home lymph node extraction kits; and appointments with DNR staff. US confirms first case of more aggressive mpox strain Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its best to check with local wildlife officials for their recommendations regarding chronic wasting disease in deer and other animals. Is meat from a CWD-positive deer safe to eat? First, its important to note that scientists have not yet found strong evidence that CWD can infect people. There have not been any reported cases of CWD in humans either. The CDC notes, however, that there is concern that the disease could pose a risk to humans. A report published earlier this year suggested that two hunters contracted Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, another fatal prion-related neurological disorder, after eating venison from deer infected with CWD. The researchers behind the study noted the causation was unproven and that further investigation is needed. What are prion diseases? Hunters died of fatal disorder after eating tainted deer meat, researchers say Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because of this potential risk, the CDC and the World Health Organization advise against eating venison from a deer that tests positive for CWD. The Wisconsin Division of Public Health recommends following all safe handling precautions when dealing with a deer, which includes wearing rubber or latex gloves when field dressing the carcass; removing the organs; minimizing contact with the brain, spinal cord, spleen, and lymph nodes; and thoroughly cleaning the knives and other equipment used. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. (NEXSTAR) Deer hunting season is upon us across the Midwest (Wisconsins gun deer season begins on November 23 this year), prompting a reminder from wildlife officials: Be on the lookout for chronic wasting disease, or CWD. CWD is a contagious, fatal, neurological illness that can impact not only white-tailed deer, but other North American cervids like mule deer, elk, and moose. It was first discovered in the U.S. in 1967 and has since been detected in more than 30 states, though officials note it may be present in other states but not yet detected. Seeing more deer lately? Wisconsin DNR explains why Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the hardest-hit is Wisconsin, where CWD has been detected in free-range species and captive facilities. If youre planning to hunt any deer this year, here are four things to know about chronic wasting disease, including whether it can impact humans and if an infected deers meat is safe to eat. What is chronic wasting disease? Often referred to as CWD, chronic wasting disease is a prion disease, which means the proteins in the body are misfolding. This will cause symptoms that will eventually lead to death, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains. CWD is contagious and believed to be spread when an animal comes in contact with an infected animals saliva, blood, urine, feces, or carcass. It may also spread through the environment, the CDC notes, like soil, drinking water or food. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DNR: Study reveals unique deer movement patterns that could benefit hunters Once an animal gets sick, the disease moves to its brain and spine and eventually kills the animal, the CDC says. There is no treatment or vaccine for CWD. What are the signs and symptoms of CWD? A deer may not show any signs of CWD until 18 to 24 months after becoming infected, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Arguably the most obvious sign is drastic weight loss, or wasting. You may also notice the deer stumbling or lacking coordination, lacking fear of people, or drooling. Additional symptoms include drooping ears, an appearance of listlessness, or excessive thirst or urinating. A white-tailed deer showing symptoms of chronic wasting disease (M. W. Miller, Colorado Division of Wildlife, via the Associated Press) The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources lists other behavioral symptoms linked to CWD: teeth grinding, a rough dull coat, walking in set patterns, and difficulty swallowing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just because a deer (or other cervid) displays any of these signs, it does not mean they have CWD. The symptoms may have other causes, the USGS explains. The only way to confirm a deer or animal has CWD is through testing. Think your deer may have CWD? Heres what to do The Wisconsin DNR is encouraging all hunters to test their deer for chronic wasting disease this year (though it is particularly interested in collecting samples from certain priority areas, including Sheboygan and Fond du Lac counties, and parts of Winnebago, Outagamie, and Shawano counties). Wisconsin hunters have access to multiple testing options. That includes: self-service kiosks, where a deer head with 5 inches of neck can be dropped off; cooperating partners that can collect the head for sampling; at-home lymph node extraction kits; and appointments with DNR staff. DNR: Invasive fish species detected in Wisconsin Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Should the deer you harvested test positive for CWD, the DNR will issue a replacement authorization to your account within two to four days. The type of authorization will depend on the type of deer you harvested. The DNR also encourages hunters in Wisconsin to dispose of their deer carcasses properly to reduce the spread of CWD. Your nearest disposal dumpsters, landfills, and transfer stations can be found online. Testing requirements and availability may vary by state. In parts of Ohio, for example, deer harvested on certain days must be submitted for sampling. Colorado has also designated specific areas for CWD testing this year. Its best to check with local wildlife officials for their recommendations regarding chronic wasting disease in deer and other animals. Is meat from a CWD-positive deer safe to eat? First, its important to note that scientists have not yet found strong evidence that CWD can infect people. There have not been any reported cases of CWD in humans either. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CDC notes, however, that there is concern that the disease could pose a risk to humans. A report published earlier this year suggested that two hunters contracted Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, another fatal prion-related neurological disorder, after eating venison from deer infected with CWD. The researchers behind the study noted the causation was unproven and that further investigation is needed. What are prion diseases? Hunters died of fatal disorder after eating tainted deer meat, researchers say Because of this potential risk, the CDC, as well as the Wisconsin DNR and the World Health Organization, advises against eating venison from a deer that tests positive for CWD. The Wisconsin Division of Public Health recommends following all safe handling precautions when dealing with a deer, which includes wearing rubber or latex gloves when field dressing the carcass; removing the organs; minimizing contact with the brain, spinal cord, spleen, and lymph nodes; and thoroughly cleaning the knives and other equipment used. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. Nov. 17Four years into a legal agreement aimed at improving care of abused and neglected children, the state Children, Youth and Families Department has yet to achieve key promised reforms, according to two national experts. As a top priority this year, the experts are advising the agency to proactively seek authority to hire new employees to tackle a staffing "crisis" that is creating high caseloads and burnout among protective services caseworkers and managers. "There are some bright spots and areas for optimism about the future," stated an Oct. 1 letter from the two "co-neutrals" who have been monitoring compliance with a slate of reforms at the child welfare agency. Services for Native children and families have improved, they found. And there is now a single managed care organization for medical and behavioral needs of children in state care due to neglect or abuse. They have also praised CYFD for its recruitment of relative foster parents and found some caseloads are within set standards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But certain reforms have stalled. For instance, the number of abused and neglected children staying in CYFD offices doubled in the second half of 2023, with police being called via 911 in nearly 50 "critical incidents" at CYFD offices around the state. The children are some of the hardest to place because of emotional trauma and other issues and are staying in some of the least desirable conditions because of a lack of suitable foster homes. Moreover, the experts found the number of foster homes in New Mexico hasn't increased since 2021, with 120 licensed foster homes added in 2023. That's far short of the 190 target the agency agreed to under a 2023 corrective action plan. The plan was sought by a group of New Mexico child welfare attorneys, agencies and foster children who sued CYFD and the then-state Human Services Department in 2018. The experts evaluated data from the year 2023, the same year a new team took over running CYFD, which conducts investigations of child abuse and neglect and works with the courts, families and others to ensure the children are placed in safe, caring homes. The report from Kevin Ryan of Public Catalyst and Judith Meltzer of the Center for the Study of Social Policy is required under a settlement in 2020 of a federal lawsuit dubbed Kevin S., a reference to one of the foster children named as a plaintiff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Although there are many dedicated staff committed to your work and the success of the Kevin S. agreement, overall, we continue to be extremely concerned about the barriers to acceptable performance: high caseloads, staff turnover, children staying/sleeping in CYFD county offices (and) lack of safe and appropriate family-based placements and community-based services,..." said the Oct. 1 letter to CYFD Secretary Teresa Casados, and Kari Armijo, secretary for the state Health Care Authority, the agency that replaced the state Human Services Department. A spokeswoman for CYFD told the Journal in an email on Friday that the agency doesn't believe the annual report gives CYFD "adequate justice for its actions." "We believe that we are making steady progress on numerous fronts to improve our operations, services, staffing, recruitment efforts, and other areas." The agency said it is striving to advance and implement improvements "that will create long-lasting and meaningful change." Foster care Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although the number of children in foster care declined each year between 2019 and 2022, the number rose to 1,942 children by December 2023, according to the co-neutrals' follow-up 169-page report released Friday. The report was a follow-up to the Oct. 1 letter. Some of the findings: "Most of the CYFD staff with whom the co-neutrals have spoken to in multiple offices throughout the state reported the ongoing responsibility of supervising children who are sleeping overnight in CYFD offices. "In 2023, there was a sharp and alarming jump in the number of children being housed in offices, particularly in the second half of the year," the report stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were 322 placements of children in offices in 2023, more than double the 139 office placements in 2022. Between July 2023 and December 2023, CYFD reports there were 52 critical incidents involving children housed in offices, which resulted in a 911 call. Such reports are required if there is an allegation of harm, an allegation of abuse and/or neglect, an allegation of restraint/seclusion, or a change in licensure of a facility. About 88% were 911 calls made by CYFD staff involving the children housed in the offices. "Many staff reported that children's behaviors when housed in the offices are negatively impacted by the conditions they are experiencing and the inattention to their needs." "Staff report that they are not trained or supported to provide the care and support these children need to feel safe and stable, and as a result, their trauma and feelings of abandonment multiply." High caseloads have been a chronic problem for CYFD investigators and workers, and agency officials have noted that lawmakers last legislative session denied a CYFD request for funding to add more protective services workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the co-neutrals are recommending CYFD leaders take "every reasonable step" as rapidly as possible to ensure adequate staffing and repair conditions in the CYFD offices. Make it a priority to hire more staff by getting authority now to increase FTEs (full-time equivalent positions) to "get ahead of attrition that will continue until the workforce is stabilized." They added that the state should also create and fill new positions that are solely responsible for after-hours child abuse and neglect investigations and emergencies. In interviews with the experts, CYFD staff reported "that they do in fact routinely work more than their compensated hours with an offer of flex time that they cannot use if they meet the needs of their jobs. "Without exception, staff reported that this system of mandatory overtime to conduct child abuse and neglect investigations, respond to emergencies, and provide office-based childcare is the biggest source of burn-out and attrition, and has adversely affected their personal lives and their own families." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The annual report is the fourth issued by the co-neutrals and was based on interviews conducted at offices and elsewhere with employees, supervisors, foster families and others. "We reported this to you last year and it remains prevalent currently across CYFD: in multiple instances and in numerous counties, CYFD caseworkers and supervisors said they have been forced to go without sleep for more than 24 hours because of the mandatory overnight and weekend shift on top of their existing responsibilities, sometimes several times per months, including in instances during extensive drives when they have been required to transport children. This practice remains a serious safety concern. Over and over again, CYFD staff and supervisors said the practice has fueled numerous colleagues' decisions to resign." Workers in some offices reported recent improvement in filing vacancies and reducing caseloads, the co-neutrals stated," but even in those offices, workers worry that these improvements are transitory as staff are subsequently asked or required to take on additional responsibilities in other offices that have problems or unexpected staff vacancies." Though CYFD had agreed to keep CYFD supervisors from taking on child abuse or neglect cases, the co-neutrals wrote, "Many CYFD supervisors with whom we spoke reported they directly carry children's cases and were concerned they haven't been able to supervise their staff appropriately. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Until CYFD addresses these realities with real solutions, the agency will continue to experience high caseloads and substantial vacancies, and incur the extensive costs of recruiting and training staff, only to lose them within the first 18 months of their employment." New Jersey, Michigan and Oklahoma's child welfare agencies are proactively overhiring in anticipation of work surges and expected attrition, the co-neutrals reported. "If CYFD continues to wait for staff to quit before beginning the hiring process for their replacements," they said, "the agency will continue to experience a severe shortage of staff and be burdened by dangerous caseloads that are far higher than the State committed to achieve." Moreover, the experts stated, "CYFD has not recovered from the decision to suspend hiring last summer. Hiring has not kept up with attrition and because of the time needed to onboard and train new staff, workloads are excessive for many workers." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hiring was "paused" by Casados for several months in summer 2023 as part of an agency reorganization. "None of the states with which we have worked have stopped hiring and training of casework staff in the midst of efforts to reform. And in fact, the New Mexico staffing crisis calls for escalating both hiring and expanding/accelerating training opportunities." Actor Denzel Washington talked about his previous projects and shared that his filmography is not so perfect, reported People. Ahead of the release of 'Gladiator II' in the US on November 22, the actor discussed his career and said that not all of his movies were hits. Notably, the movies was released in India and United Kingdom on November 15. "After Malcolm X I made some real clunkers. Look them up, I won't say their names," he said. "They are all in the 1990s. But I was earning. I had responsibilities." However, he said that his films in the 2000s, which included 'Remember the Titans' and 'Training Day', did really well, "In life, you learn, earn and then you return, as in give back," he said. "So in that era, I was earning," he explained. "With a great agent, my career built into making money and so the earning kicked in and then life also kicked in, with bills, four kids and a house." 'The Equaliser' actor also admitted that, like Judi Dench, he is "guilty" of not seeing his films in their entirety. He stated that he does "watch" some parts of the films "so I know what I'm talking about," but leaves the rest unfinished. "I haven't watched any film from my past from start to finish, not even Malcolm X," said Washington. "All you see is what you did wrong. Also, why would you do it anyway?" Earlier this week, Washington shared that his acting career has taken a new focus now that he's growing older and that he is "only interested in working with the best moving forward." "I don't know how many more films I'm going to make. Probably not that many. I want to do things I haven't done. I played Othello at 22; I'm about to play Othello at 70," he said while referring to his upcoming Broadway run in Shakespeare's Othello with Jake Gyllenhaal. "After that, I'm playing Hannibal. After that, I've been talking with Steve McQueen about a film. After that, Ryan Coogler is writing a part for me in the next Black Panther," he added, reported People. (ANI) A high-speed pursuit through West L.A. ended with a violent crash into a home Saturday night, and a new update from police indicates that three people involved were arrested and a firearm was recovered. Preliminary information indicates that CHP officers initiated a pursuit on the northbound span of the 405 Freeway near the Sepulveda Boulevard exit around 9:45 p.m. after the driver of the vehicle, a burgundy Dodge Durango, failed to yield. According to a CHP spokesperson, the pursuit began when officers observed the SUV driving on the shoulder of the freeway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The driver then exited the freeway before turning around and going south on the 405, eventually exiting at Culver Boulevard in Culver City. Shortly after exiting the freeway, the SUV crashed into a guardrail and into a home. She didnt deserve what happened to her at all: Family devastated after loved one fatally shot in South L.A. It is believed that the four people who were inside the car when the crash occurred needed to be extricated by first responders. The passengers of the vehicle were not seriously injured, and neither was anyone in the home. A high-speed pursuit through West L.A. ended with a violent crash into a home Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024. (OnSceneTV) A high-speed pursuit through West L.A. ended with a violent crash into a home Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024. (OnSceneTV) A high-speed pursuit through West L.A. ended with a violent crash into a home Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024. (OnSceneTV) A high-speed pursuit through West L.A. ended with a violent crash into a home Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024. (OnSceneTV) One passenger spoke to news stringer service OnSceneTV moments after the collision and said he thought he was going to die. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was like boom, boom, boom, and after the first hit, I was fked upI got blood on my hands still, the man said. 4 shot, 1 stabbed after Inland Empire house party turns violent Video shows the driver of the vehicle being detained by the police; in an update issued shortly before 9 a.m., a CHP spokesperson said that, of the four occupants, three were arrested and a firearm was recovered at the scene. The nature of their charges is unclear, and their identities have not been released. An inspection of the house led to it being red-tagged, meaning it is no longer safe to occupy. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Nov. 16OLDTOWN, Idaho A damaged spillway gate will make it a little harder for a federal dam to control the water level in Lake Pend Oreille for the foreseeable future. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is erring on the side of lower lake levels to buffer against flooding from spring runoff. But that makes it harder for tourists and property owners to access the lake, a major economic resource in North Idaho. "We would rather have lower lake elevation and not flood," said Taylor Johnson, the corps' chief of natural resources for Albeni Falls Dam. "That's been a real point of consternation for a lot of people." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although the spillway is at risk of failure, the corps maintains there is no risk to the public. "If we lost a gate and had an uncontrolled release of water, the downstream channel capacity could absorb that sudden inflow," Johnson said. During an April inspection, the corps discovered the defect in one of the dam's 10 gates. The spillway helps control the lake level by overflowing excess water that can't pass through the dam's hydroelectric powerhouse, or by retaining extra water when the gates are down. While the defective gate is repaired off-site, the dam's only spare gate was put in its place. The gate is expected to be back in service by spring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because the dam has only one spare, the corps has not had a chance to inspect the other gates and must presume they all have the same defect. To minimize unnecessary pressure on the gates, the corps is limiting gate movements and keeping them either fully closed or fully open. "Every time we lift a gate, that's a risk," said Tony Fergert, the dam's operations and maintenance manager. "So we're trying not to do that any more than we have to." Normally during spring runoff, the gates are opened incrementally to more gradually control the water level. When gates are all the way open, more water is released, which means less energy generated through the powerhouse. The gates are usually down the rest of the year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lake Pend Oreille is a natural lake about 25 miles upriver from the dam, which was built in 1955 about a mile and a half from the Washington border. To get to the dam, water flows through a shallow bottleneck at the mouth of the Pend Oreille River near Dover. This natural pinch point would prevent the entire lake from draining. In fact, the river completely dried up at times before the dam was built, Johnson said. If one of the gates broke, it would be no different from opening the gate during normal operations. Eventually, the river would dry up. The biggest safety risk would be an accident while a gate was being adjusted, which could damage the bridge or overhead crane and could injure or kill the crane operator, Fergert said. The plan to replace the spillway Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each gate is 40 feet across and 45 tons of steel. The gates undergo routine maintenance and cleaning, but work this spring was part of an in-depth rehabilitation project. The inspection removed years of paint layers to the original base of Gate 3, which revealed holes and cracks in the two primary girders of the gate's upper leaf. The defects were likely made during manufacturing and worsened over time. A contractor is repairing the cracks with fiber-reinforced polymer. Once Gate 3 is returned to service, the next gate can be inspected for the flaw. But even if the other gates are OK, the corps plans to move forward with replacing them. The gates were only meant to last 50 years, and it has been almost 70. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The timeline for replacing them is longer than some lake residents had hoped. An updated design, needed to meet modern standards, is expected to be approved by next fall. Then the project would go to bid. The first replacement gate could be installed in 2027. After that, the corps estimates it will take another six months per gate. Some residents have complained that timeline means it will take longer to replace the gates than the five years it took to build the dam. "People are obviously frustrated, because it's going to take awhile," Johnson said. "You can't just get a gate from Amazon. You can't 3D-print a gate." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nicole Celestine, a spokeswoman for the Army Corps of Engineers district office in Seattle, said the timeline is based on estimated industry availability. The original contractor no longer exists, and the bid requires a highly specialized steel fabricator, so it is not feasible to expect 11 gates at once. The corps is working as hard as it can to fast-track the process, Celestine said, but taking the time to do it right could prevent another defect. Idaho's congressional delegation sent a letter in June urging the corps to "resolve this situation as soon as safely possible." Managing the lake Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the dam, Johnson said the corps has five missions to balance: generate hydroelectricity while managing the lake for flood risk, recreation, environmental stewardship and navigation. After the defect was discovered, the corps slightly reduced the summer lake level out of caution. The corps measures the water level by elevation from the other side of the lake at Hope, Idaho. The normal summer target is 2,062 to 2,062.5 feet. This year, that half-foot range was dropped 3 inches. Ferger said the corps is evaluating whether to keep that range next year. For lake users, inches mean a lot. Many fixed-pier docks and boat ramps can only be used when the lake reaches a certain elevation. Most access points are unusable throughout the winter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beginning in the fall, the corps drops the lake 11 feet gradually through the powerhouse. The 2,051-feet target was reached Tuesday. The annual drawdown is scheduled for a variety of reasons. Most important, it makes space for spring runoff, but it also gives flexibility for winter power generation, prevents erosion and invasive weeds, and accommodates kokanee salmon spawning. Last spring had an unusually light snowpack. But in normal years, the river has to pass the sudden melting onslaught from the Pend Oreille BaPhsin, which extends as far away as Butte. "We have to ensure we don't make bad decisions in bringing the lake up too fast, because once we fill, it is super hard to get rid of," Johnson said. "Then we are flooding." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the uncertainties after the defect was discovered, the corps delayed refilling the lake several weeks this year, but still reached the target level on June 19, two days later than the 10-year average. The issue of water levels, however, was a concern for some lake users long before this year's restrictions. Ralph Sletager, owner of Waterfront Property Management and the marina in Sandpoint, said that when the water level comes up at a slower rate, people book their vacations elsewhere. Sletager is the founder of the Lake Pend Oreille Alliance, a group that argues the lake's water rights belong to Idaho, not the federal government. The alliance's website points to a 1949 U.S. Senate document that contains a report by the chief of engineers that recommended operating the lake at full pool for "about six months" rather than the three months it does now. In an FAQ document on the dam's website, the corps said that the initial report was not a final operating plan. The dam's water control manual was updated with public feedback after the first few years of the dam's operation and with subsequent acts of Congress, including the Endangered Species Act and Northwest Power Act. State Rep. Mark Sauter, a Republican from Sandpoint who has asked the corps to speed up the process in replacing the gates, said he has initiated an economic impact study of lake levels on the region. Lake access is not only important for recreation, he said, but also for emergency responders, to make it easier to launch rescue boats. Sauter said he thinks there are alternative ways to operate the lake while still mitigating flood risk. He said that with modern data sources, the corps should be able to predict spring runoff while drawing the lake level up sooner. The corps plans to hold a public meeting in the spring to provide updates on the spillway. In the meantime, the project has a website with more information, and the corps is collecting public feedback on lake restrictions. James Hanlon's reporting for The Spokesman-Review is funded in part by Report for America and by members of the Spokane community. This story can be republished by other organizations for free under a Creative Commons license. For more information on this, please contact our newspaper's managing editor. Democratic attorneys general across the country are readying their legal defenses against the incoming Trump administration, preparing to pounce on potential violations and even take the president-elect to court if he implements controversial policies. During his first term, state attorneys general brought a wave of lawsuits against the Trump administration as they worked to block moves like his travel ban and family separations at the border. Four years after he left office, as President-elect Trump touts plans for mass deportations and a rollback of environmental regulations, the top prosecutors are on high alert. They join Democratic governors, some of whom are already in the spotlight as possible 2028 contenders, as a critical line of defense for the party, with the GOP set to take a trifecta of control over the White House and Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This time, not just with the trifecta, but also a more conservative judiciary, the number of venues for Democrats to advance their policies has shrunk on the federal level, said Paul Nolette, a Marquette University political scientist and the director of a database on state litigation and attorney general activity. Whenever that happens, what weve seen is that parties then really use the states as a way to advance their own policy. And when Democrats are still in control of states like California, New York, Illinois the actions of governors, the actions of state AGs, they really can make a difference not only in their own states, but across the country, on national policy, he said. The days since Trumps win have seen a surge of Democratic attorneys general stepping up to signal theyre ready to counterbalance the GOP when it takes power in Washington next year. I dont wake up every morning dying to sue the president of the United States or his administration, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin (D) told The Hill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If hes operating lawfully, were not going to challenge it. But when he violates the law, were not going to hesitate to protect our residents, Platkin said. Trump has said his Day 1 agenda would launch the largest deportation program in American history, roll back Biden orders on equity and drill, baby, drill. Its not like the Democrats made it up or something, said Carl Tobias, a law professor at the University of Richmond, of the prospective threats posed by a second Trump term. It comes from the mouth, and social media, of Trump himself. The president-elect has also stoked concerns with his picks for Cabinet positions, including Trump ally former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) for U.S. attorney general. Gaetz, who is being investigated by the House Ethics Committee, resigned from Congress after getting the nod. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Platkin blasted the nomination on the social platform X as a sign that Trump would use the DOJ to punish political opponents and undermine the rule of law. Attorneys general from coast to coast have been preparing for months amid the competitive White House race, Californias Attorney General Rob Bonta (D) told The Hill. Theyve monitored comments from Trump and his inner circle and scrutinized Project 2025, the conservative Heritage Foundations blueprint for a second Trump term. The prep is as specific as prewriting briefs so officials just need to cross the Ts, dot the Is and press print and file it, Bonta said. California alone reportedly brought more than a hundred lawsuits against Trump in his first term. What we learned from the first Trump administration is that he cant help but break the law. Its part of his brand. Its part of what he does, Bonta said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During Trumps first term, Democratic attorneys general led more than 130 multistate lawsuits against the administration, according to Nolettes database, and boasted an 83 percent win rate. That was more than twice as many as Republican attorneys general led against the Obama administration, with a 63.5 percent win rate. Against President Bidens administration so far, Republican AGs have seen a win rate of around 76 percent. The first Trump administration ushered in a world of heightened AG activism, Nolette said, making the latest crop of state legal officers much more proactive in getting ready for challenges that currently dont even exist. The attorneys general are connecting with each other through the Democratic Attorneys General Association (DAGA), as well as coordinating with their governors, who are also gearing up to resist Republican policies. Nothing unites Democrats more than Donald Trump, said James Tierney, a Harvard Law School lecturer, the director of StateAG.org and a former Democratic attorney general of Maine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Trumps win, California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) called a special session of the state legislature to protect progressive policies, vowing the Golden State is ready to fight. New York Attorney General Letitia James (D), who brought a major lawsuit against Trump in 2022, joined with New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) to announce their offices would be convening regularly to coordinate legal actions and develop responses to the incoming administration, according to a release. In Massachusetts, Gov. Maura Healey (D) herself a former state AG has promised her states law enforcement would absolutely not assist if the Trump administration asked for help with mass deportation plans. Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell (D) said shes on alert for threats to reproductive health care, gun safety, consumer protections and other issues, and told The Hill that she has real concerns about the president-elects position when it comes to the rule of law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The role of the Democratic AG is the most critical, I think, in this moment in time, Campbell said, arguing theyre on the front line. Several Democratic governors were in the running for the veepstakes to join Vice President Harriss 2024 presidential bid, and theyre also making early lists of possible 2028 contenders. Some state AGs, too, may have higher political aspirations, adding a political subtext to their public defense of their party ideals. The old joke, of course, is that AGs are aspiring governors. And I think at this point weve seen, certainly, plenty of evidence that AGs have leveraged their roles to become good candidates for higher office, Nolette said. Harris herself is a prime example: She served as California AG before jumping to the Senate and then to the vice presidency. Along the 2024 campaign trail, she touted her work in the role. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Washington states Attorney General Bob Ferguson (D) won his gubernatorial bid on Election Day. He told reporters after the results that his office feels prepared to defend progressive policies in his state as both the White House and his seat changes hands. And that defense doesnt always look like lawsuits, experts noted. State attorneys general often write letters to congressional leaders, participate in the notice-and-comment rule-making stage and speak out about certain policies. The wise attorney general understands that theyre more than just a lawsuit machine, Tierney said. DAGA president Sean Rankin told The Hill that state AGs will continue their work in the courtroom during a second Trump term, but also work to do a better job of explaining the work of attorneys general to the public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach (R), the chair of the Republican Attorneys General Association (RAGA), argued in a statement to The Hill that the Democratic AGs are making an empty gesture with their responses to Trumps win, given that regulatory overreach has been a hallmark of the Biden Administration. Unlike President Biden who lost dozens of times to Republican AGs for promulgating illegal and unconstitutional rules and regulations, President Trump will be focused on reducing excessive overreach, Kobach said. A Trump White House 2.0. will also likely have a more sophisticated approach both to reverse Biden-era regulations and advance their own policies, Nolette said. And Democrats are set to face new hurdles in the increasingly conservative court system including at the U.S. Supreme Court level, thanks to Trumps appointments. Its like the filibuster in the Senate. Both sides use it when its to their advantage. Republicans had a huge amount of litigation against the Biden administration in these past four years, and theres more to come. And so this isnt specific about Trump, Nolette said of using litigation to combat the administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its something that I think AGs of both parties have realized is a very good strategy to delay and to stop policies that they disagree with, he said. This is part of the process thats now entrenched. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. With Republicans taking control of The White House and both chambers of congress, Democratic Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland joins Katie Phang to discuss the road ahead for Democrats with a GOP trifecta of power. Democrats hope blue states can be the party's redoubt against Trump's second term. Democrats will be in the minority in both houses of Congress in January 2025. Democrats are also lining up lawyers to stymie Trump's agenda and planning for 2028. With Vice President Kamala Harris' presidential election loss, President Joe Biden leaving the White House in January, and Democrats looking ahead to life in a Senate chamber that they'll no longer control, the new year will bring a new reality: the party's power in Washington, DC will be diminished. A newly empowered Donald Trump, meanwhile, is aiming to reshape the federal government to a degree that he failed to achieve in his first term. He's assembling an array of loyalists to help further his goals on everything from immigration to foreign policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Early in Trump's first presidency, protests against his administration were common in Washington and other cities. And as Trump's first term progressed, Democrats remained laser-focused on opposing him. The party harnessed that energy to retake the House in 2018, win back the presidency in 2020, and flip the Senate in 2021. But this time, the Democratic Party appears to be coalescing around a revised strategy. Democratic officials and activists are hoping blue states can be the center of opposition to the president-elect, The New York Times reported. From abortion rights to paid leave, the party sees its Democratic strongholds as bulwarks against Trump, especially with the US Supreme Court dominated by conservative jurists. Democrats are also building up a legal operation to challenge the new administration, according to the Times. The newspaper reported that advocacy groups are rallying hundreds of attorneys to fight Trump's agenda from the start of the president-elect's second term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Skye Perryman, the CEO of Democracy Forward, a nonprofit organization created after Trump's win in 2016, told the Times that challenges to the president-elect will be different in his second term. "Resistance this time is a lot more about collective power building," she said. "It's using the law and using litigation." Democrats are also already looking ahead to the 2028 election. While Democrats are still smarting over Harris' loss and trying to assess how their party can reverse electoral gains that Trump made with working-class voters many of the party's crop of governors have emerged as potential 2028 contenders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats occupy 23 of the nation's 50 governorships, which will remain unchanged at the beginning of the year. Some of them like Govs. Gavin Newsom of California, JB Pritzker of Illinois, and Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan have long been considered White House aspirants. For Democrats, the focus on states will give many of these leaders a platform as Trump aims to enact a conservative agenda in a nation that remains politically divided. Harris easily won California and Illinois in the general election, but she lost Michigan a state that for years had been part of the party's vaunted blue wall by about 1.4 points. After the election, Newsom called a special session, which will begin on December 2 in Sacramento, to boost the state's legal resources to challenge the incoming administration on issues like abortion, civil rights, climate regulations, and immigration. Pritzker pledged to work with the Trump administration but also called himself a "warrior" for his state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "To anyone who intends to come take away the freedom, opportunity, and dignity of Illinoisans, I would remind you that a happy warrior is still a warrior," the governor, now in his second term, wrote on X. "You come for my people you come through me." Meanwhile, Whitmer reiterated that she worked with Trump during her first term and would find a way to do so again. "We'll figure out how to work with a Trump administration into this last two years of my term," she told reporters after the election. Read the original article on Business Insider Democrats have rounded on Seth Moulton, the congressman who criticised the partys trans policies in the wake of the election. Mr Moulton, a centrist from Massachusetts faced a backlash for his criticism of the partys emphasis on trans issues in a series of interviews. Last week the congressman told The Telegraph: We cant even have discussions about contentious issues like this, because anyone who disagrees with the Left-related Democratic orthodoxy just gets shut down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Moultons campaign manager quit and he was rebuked by the Democratic governor of Massachusetts. One local councillor called on the congressman to resign and opponents planned to picket his office. As part of the Democrats wider election post-mortem, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez lashed out at the party for listening to the donor class rather than working people. The Left-wing congresswoman, who won re-election in her New York district with a reduced majority, said: There is a disease in Washington of Democrats who spend more time listening to the donor class than working people. If you want to know the seed of the partys political crisis, thats it. Spat over DNC chairman The latest spat was triggered by suggestions that Rahm Emanuel, the former Chicago mayor and Obama ally, should become the chairman of the Democratic National Committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He already has the support of David Axelrod, one of the partys most experienced strategists. He is the most skilful, political kind of infighter in the Democratic Party. Hes been a member of Congress, hes been White House chief of staff, hes been the mayor of Chicago, Mr Axelrod said on his Hacks on Tap podcast. Ms Ocasio-Cortez, a member of the Left-wing Squad in the House of Representatives, gave the idea short shrift on X, formerly Twitter. A lot of people want to bring back Obama-era insiders for party building purposes. While those folks ran successful presidential campaigns, they also oversaw some of the largest down-ballot losses in modern times, she wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Ocasio-Cortez, 35, angered parts of the Squad progressive coalition by endorsing Joe Biden for re-election, despite his support of Israels war in Gaza. She also saw two fellow members of the group Cori Bush in Missouri and Jamaal Bowman in New York ousted by moderates during the Democratic primaries. Identity politics The inquest into the election defeat also has other influential Democrats question the wisdom of getting involved in the culture war, in particular over trans issues. From the Left, Bernie Sanders, warned that the party candidates should not have relied on identity politics. You can say, Look, isnt it great that we have in fact a very smart and effective black woman whos on the Supreme Court? Great. But you dont hang your hat on that, he said on a New York Times podcast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rift between the partys Right and Left did not surprise Christopher Galdieri, a professor of politics at Saint Anselm College in New Hampshire. This is not surprising, this is what happens to parties who have an election, you have a backlash, he told The Telegraph. When parties are shell-shocked, everyone has their say on what a party should do. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Democrats who won major Senate races have a blunt message for their party: Get a better economic message or keep losing. From Elissa Slotkin in Michigan to Ruben Gallego in Arizona and Adam Schiff in California, these soon-to-be senators took to the Sunday television shows to answer what they did right that other Democrats failed to do. It all came a week after many other Democrats hid from the networks last Sunday, in the aftermath of the election loss. Any party and I can only represent the Democratic Party needs to focus on the things that keep people up at night. That's their pocketbooks and their kids, Slotkin said in an interview with MSNBC's "Inside with Jen Psaki." There are a lot of issues out there. But you've got to start with what keeps people awake, and that is kitchen-table issues, economics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like Slotkin, Gallego is a member of the House who won a promotion to the Senate on Election Day even though Trump carried Arizona at the top of the ticket. He agreed that, broadly, Democrats did not connect with Americans on the issues that mattered to them, especially on the economy. You can have all the graphs you want, Gallego said on CNNs State of the Union. If you open up your checking account, and you see that you're making less, and there's not enough coming in, it doesn't matter what the GDP growth is. Gallego also noted that Arizona had more registered Republicans than Democrats and said he knew voters from both parties were struggling economically and could relate to them as someone who grew up poor. People were hurting. When I say people were hurting, people were really felt the pain of the economy, Gallego said. We explained to people that what is happening right now is bad. And also by the way, it's not your fault. But we're going to work to fix it. And I think that's the thing that we did for 23 months that made the biggest difference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schiff, another current House colleague from solidly-blue California, saw a similar messaging issue among Democrats. Frankly, I think one of the reasons I was successful in California is I was out there talking about the economy, Schiff said in an interview with CNNs State of the Union. We need to make that case all over rural America that we understand what people are facing, that we respect them, that we're going to deliver for them. I think that's been missing. Pennsylvania was one battleground state that saw Republican gains down the ballot, with a Senate flip and two seats in the House. Democratic Sen. John Fetterman, who flipped a Republican-held Senate seat in 2022, also pointed to unique factors this cycle that made Trump the strongest that hes been in three cycles such as the assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, and Elon Musks increased presence in the state. Even House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (N.Y.) acknowledged that Democratic losses among the working class is an incredibly important part of our analysis as the party moves forward. He reiterated that Democrats must put working families over the well-connected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Poorly negotiated trade deals, the outsourcing of good-paying American jobs, the decline of unionization, and of course the rise of automation have all jammed up people in the heartland of America, the Great Lakes states, and working families all across the country, Jeffries said in an interview on NBCs Meet the Press. And it's going to fall on Democrats, Republicans and independents to do something about it decisively. To me, that's the lesson that I take from the most recent election. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, who is term-limited three years from now and has been mentioned as a possible candidate for national office in the future, noted that the upcoming Trump administrations Cabinet picks open the door for Democrats to press their arguments. I certainly don't want to do any finger pointing, because the vice president had 107 days, and she did her very best. And I proudly criss-crossed the country in support of her, Beshear said in an interview with CBS Face the Nation. But what I know is, going forward, over the next couple years, we have a chance every day, every moment, to show the American people that we are laser-focused on jobs, on their health care, on their infrastructure, on their kids education just those everyday worries. He added, And with this administration, at least right now selecting some very extreme appointees, it's a chance to make a real difference, to really show people that we're where their basic needs are. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beshear also noted that this does not mean Democrats should abandon their beliefs, pointing to his veto of an anti-LGBTQ+ bill passed by Republicans in the state legislature, but then got back to discussing jobs the next day. If we're talking about this issue of the day, and then we're talking about what Donald Trump said last night, Beshear said. And then we're talking about jobs we're only spending a third of the time talking about what people are worried about and what impacts their life the most. GRAND HAVEN TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) Two drivers were hospitalized after they collided at an intersection near Grand Haven Sunday afternoon, deputies said. Around 12:30 p.m., a Chevrolet Tahoe was headed north on US-31 when it did not stop for a red light at Ferris Street, according to the Ottawa County Sheriffs Office. The Tahoe crashed into a Subaru that was headed east on Ferris. The drivers, who are both women in their 60s, were injured in the crash and taken to the hospital. The injuries are not life-threatening, deputies say. Both drivers were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash, according to the sheriffs office. A lane of northbound US-31 was closed during cleanup after the crash. The driver who did not stop for the red light was cited, according to deputies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha welcomed the 'Pushpa 2: The Rule' team at the trailer launch event of the film in Patna. He called it a historical moment and shared that such events promote tourism in the state. He said, "I welcome all the artists and technicians of the film at the historic Gandhi Maidan of Pataliputra...Today's event will be seen as a film revolution to promote the development of the film industry as well as tourism in Bihar...Till now, no trailer launch program of any film was organised on such a large scale in Bihar." Ahead of the release of 'Pushpa 2: The Rule', the makers organised a grand trailer launch event at Gandhi Maidan in Patna, Bihar on Sunday A huge crowd gathered to catch a glimpse of Allu Arjun and Rashmika Mandanna. Actor Allu Arjun expressed his gratitude towards the audience and said, "Pushpa never bows down. Today, for a change, Pushpa does that before your love. On this occasion, I want to thank everyone across the nation. Thank you for the love you have shown for this film. I would like to thank the entire 'Pushpa' team. Your love is the reason why this film was made so great and why everyone likes it so much. The film is going to be released grandly on December 5th. I hope everyone likes it. Thank you, Bihar. Thank you, Patna." Rashmika added, "I would like to thank all the people of Patna for showering so much love. I can assure you that your wait for this film will be more than worth it..." The fans were excited to see their favourite stars and the video showed their immense craze and enthusiasm. As they created a stampede-like situation security personnel used baton charge to control the massive crowd that gathered at Gandhi Maidan in Patna. It was a moment of excitement for Allu Arjun fans to see him once again in an action-packed avatar in the trailer of 'Pushpa 2: The Rule' has been released. The trailer features Allu Arjun reprising his titular character of a red sandalwood smuggler, while Rashmika appears as his love interest. Allu Arjun makes a magnificent entry. It continues with strong action scenes and the appearance of Rashmika Mandanna as Srivalli. Soon, Fahadh Faasil appears as Pushpa's enemy, threatening to fight him. Pushpa, on the other hand, has no fear of anyone and proudly declares that he is an international player rather than a national one. Dialogues in the trailer like "Pushpa naam chota hai lekin sound bahut bada.." and "Pushpa sirk ek naam nahi hai..Pushpa Matlab ek brand.." make it more intriguing and entertaining. Check out the trailer. https://x.com/alluarjun/status/1858133045464932388 Before the trailer launch, Allu Arjun and Rashmika Mandanna jetted off to Patna with their crew to attend the great event. They received a warm welcome from their fans at the airport. They also smiled for the paparazzi before going for the trailer-release event. A massive crowd can be seen at Gandhi Maidan for the trailer launch event of the film 'Pushpa 2'. Actor Rashmika Mandanna, recently posted two pictures from her dubbing session giving a glimpse into her work on the film on Instagram stories. In one of the pictures, Rashmika is seen in the recording studio, busy with her dubbing work. In the second picture, the 'Animal' actress makes a sad face, giving fans a hint of the emotional journey she's going through as she completes this phase of the film's production. Along with the pictures, Rashmika shared a note about why she appeared sad. "Now that the fun and games are over, let's get down to business!! Meaning - 1 Pushpa shoot is almost done. 2. Pushpa: The Rule - dub for first half is over. 3. I am dubbing for the second half and My God! The film's first half is already freaking amazing and the second half is even more so. I am literally short on words. I can't wait," read her note. Directed by Sukumar and produced by Mythri Movie Makers and Muttamsetty Media, the film will see Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, and Fahadh Faasil reprise their roles as Pushpa Raj, Srivalli, and Bhanwar Singh Shekawat. Allu Arjun, the main lead of the film, received a National Film Award for his performance in the first part. The first part of Pushpa showcased power tussles set against the backdrop of red sandalwood smuggling which was directed by Sukumar. The film was earlier scheduled to be released in August. However, in June, the makers locked December 6 as the new release date but now they have preponed the release and it's set to hit the theatres on December 5. (ANI) CLINTON, N.C. (WNCN) A raid at a Sampson County home linked to 20 separate car thefts across eight North Carolina counties led to the recovery of at least two luxury vehicles and the arrest of a Faison man on several charges, deputies said. Detectives obtained a search warrant for a home on Jackson Lane in Turkey after they saw a stolen car at the property, according to a Saturday news release from the Sampson County Sheriffs Office. Deputies said they believed the suspect might be armed so the Sheriffs Emergency Response Team executed the warrant on Friday, Nov. 8 and raided the location. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the search, deputies found two vehicles stolen from car dealerships in Raleigh and Pitt County, the news release said. Another vehicle stolen from Pitt County was found in Newton Grove the next day. A Porsche SUV that was among the stolen cars recovered following a raid at a home on Jackson Lane in Turkey in Sampson County, deputies said. Sampson County Sheriffs Office photo A Porsche SUV and an Audi sedan were among the stolen cars found, deputies told CBS 17. A seven-month investigation involving 20 separate auto thefts and larcenies across eight counties led officers to the residence, deputies said in the release. Ellis Jachin Wilson, 27, of Faison, was served with more than 30 warrants, deputies said. Officials said they are now investigating more cases linked to Wilson even working with other states. A late-model Audi sedan that was among the stolen cars recovered following a raid at a home on Jackson Lane in Turkey in Sampson County, deputies said. Sampson County Sheriffs Office photo Investigators have devoted a lot of time to tracking these events and tying them back to Ellis Wilson, Sampson County Sheriffs Office Capt. Marcus Smith said in the release. This arrest will begin to bring closure to a lot of thefts across Sampson County and other jurisdictions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies said some of the more serious charges against Wilson include: 2 counts of felony breaking and entering Sampson County 2 counts of felony larceny after breaking and entering Sampson County 3 counts of felony possession of stolen goods Sampson County 1 count of felony breaking and entering of a motor vehicle Sampson County 1 count of felony larceny of a motor vehicle Sampson County 1 count of felony larceny Sampson County 3 counts of felony possession of a stolen motor vehicle Sampson County 2 counts of felony possession of a weapon of mass destruction Sampson County 1 count of felony breaking and entering Pitt County 1 count of felony larceny after breaking and entering Pitt County 1 count of felony safecracking Pitt County 7 counts of felony larceny of a motor vehicle Pitt County 1 count of felony conspiracy Pitt County 1 count of felony possession of a stolen motor vehicle Pitt County Wilson is being held on a $187,700 bond at the Sampson County Detention Center with a court date scheduled for November 22, Smith said. Investigators should be commended for their hard work in this very complex case and we are thankful for all other jurisdictions who have assisted as well, Smith said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. This story has been archived. Click here for the updates on the deputy-involved shooting. TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) A deputy-involved shooting was reported in Tampa late Saturday night. At around 11 p.m., the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office said the incident was under investigation. He is my hero: Victim shares heartbreak after deadly shooting in Clearwater The shooting occurred in the area of West Hillsborough Avenue and Elliot Drive, the sheriffs office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The circumstances surrounding the incident were still unclear Saturday night, and no further information was immediately available. This is a developing story. Stay up to date on the latest from News Channel 8 on-air and on the go with the free WFLA News Channel 8 mobile app. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. The Detroit News issued an editorial urging the Senate to reject President-elect Trumps nominations of Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) as attorney general and former Fox News host Pete Hegseth for secretary of Defense. The Republican-controlled Senate should establish its intention to vigorously fulfill its advise and consent role, and its independence from the administration, by rejecting Gaetz and Hegseth, it wrote. The piece said the board has, generally, no major objections to Trumps picks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, two of his nominees for critical positions Matt Gaetz as attorney general and Pete Hegseth as defense secretary are so unacceptable their names should either be withdrawn by Trump or rejected by the Senate. Gaetz, a Republican representative from Florida, is unsuitable even to remain in Congress, let alone to assume the leadership of one of the most powerful departments of the federal government, the board added referencing his review for allegedly engaging in sexual acts with a minor. Senators have already raised concerns about his nomination. It is reckless of Trump to appoint a man who is under investigation by the House Ethics Committee on allegations of sexual misconduct and illicit drug use, read the editorial piece. The accusations also include accepting improper gifts, rewarding his friends with special favors and obstructing investigations into his misdeeds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The publication then affirmed calls for the House Ethics Committee to publicize the report into Gaetz, against the wishes of Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.). The American people should know exactly who the person is Trump has tapped to enforce the laws of the land and uphold the Constitution, the board stated. While Gaetz has denied the charges, the power vested in a U.S. attorney general demands the person in that position be above even the whiff of scandal. Gaetz reeks of scandal. The Detroit News then critiqued Hegseth for his lack of experience in military leadership and rhetoric surrounding removing woke generals with diverse backgrounds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats apparently the primary reason Trump selected him, the outlet said, citing Hegseths past comments on the woke ideology into the military. Hegseth is in no way qualified to handle those roles, the Detroit News wrote, opposing Hegseths control of the $1.13 trillion spending budget for Defense. His only executive experience was as CEO of a veterans advocacy organization. The editorial piece also raised brief concerns with Trumps nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii). Updated on Nov. 18 at 10:58 a.m. EST Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Parents, troop leaders, and Catholic community members are coming together after the Archdiocese of Cincinnati announced it is discontinuing its parishes partnerships with Girl Scouts. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The message that the archdiocese sent to girls through this decision was that theyre no longer welcome, Catholic troop leader and Girl Scout parent Jennifer Briede told our news partners at WCPO. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Briede said the archdioceses separation from Girl Scouts has hit her and her girls hard. I have a fourth-grade troop. Theyre kinda just like, my own daughter, What did we do wrong? I dont understand, Briede said. She organized a meeting at Oak Hills High School so other troop leaders and parents could figure out whats next. TRENDING STORIES: There might be other alternatives if we start working together, that we just dont know yet so thats the goal of this meeting, Briede said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Briede said she hopes the archdiocese will consider partnering with local Catholic Girl Scout leaders to maintain their community and relationships. The Catholic Committee, the liaison between the GSWO and the AoC, led Thursdays meeting. They said they hope to keep a line of communication open as the separation moves forward and to continue to foster the Catholic faith of Girl Scouts once connected with the archdiocese. Our primary goal is to remain committed to the spiritual development of young girls while fostering reconciliation between the archdiocese and the Girl Scouts of Western Ohio, Amy Armstrong Smith said, a Catholic Committee member and a Girl Scout troop leader. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A large portion of Thursdays meeting was hearing from the community. Community members asked why the archdiocese did not think of the impact on the girls and why they did not consult group leaders before making the decision. Briede said that one of the biggest unknowns is where troops will meet and hold events come December 2025. The Catholic Committee says more meetings will be held, and they will continue to focus on the most important: the young women. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] The New York Times reports President Biden will allow Ukraine to use U.S. made weapons to strike inside Russian territory. Also, national security officials worry some of President-elect Trumps Cabinet picks will leave the U.S. vulnerable. Former U.S. Ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul joins Alex Witt to discuss these topics and more. Several current and former Department of Justice and FBI officials have begun preparing to be potentially targeted by President-elect Donald Trumps loyalists. Concerns about criminally investigations by the Trump administration reportedly intensified following the president-elects nomination of Matt Gaetz for Attorney General. Throughout his 2024 presidential bid, Trump and his allies consistently railed against the president-elects numerous enemies and criminal investigations, calling them politically motivated and claiming the DOJ and FBI officials involved deserved to be prosecuted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those at the DOJ and FBI, however, argue that the probes were done by the book, having secured indictments from federal grand juries against Trump for his alleged mishandling of classified documents and 2020 election subversion efforts. Everything we did was aboveboard, one former senior FBI official told NBC News. But this is a different world. While the he said that he does not believe any attempt to prosecute him would be successful, heand multiple peersstarted contacting lawyers in anticipation of potential lengthy legal battles and congressional investigations. Other officials reportedly expressed confusion about the legal basis for possible prosecution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres no crime, a current official told the outlet. Whats the crime? Conservative attorney and Trump ally Mike Davis has argued that special counsel Jack Smith could be prosecuted for conspiracy against rights, a charged levied against Trump by Smith regarding the 2020 election. Ilya Somin, a law professor at George Mason University, dismissed Davis' idea as absurd. Donald Trump sits in Manhattan Supreme Court on the 13th day of his hush money trial. I dont see any legitimate charge that can be brought against Smith, he added with the caveat that a prosecutor could investigate an official over a long period to find unrelated violations of federal laws that cover minor offenses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you think about it, a majority of adult Americans have probably violated federal laws, such as smoking marijuana, at some point in their lives, Somin said. Regardless of the crime, legal experts argue that Trumps goal in investigating his investigators is to intimidate those who question his conduct. Trump aims to neutralize sources of power that may impede him..., said Stephen Gillers, an ethics professor at New York University Law School. He will tolerate no interference when the departments decisions will benefit Trump and his buddies or when its power can be deployed to retaliate against his enemies. In choosing Gaetz, one former DOJ official claimed, the president-elect is confident that Gaetz will do whatever Trump tells him to do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He needs to be able to control the department, which he can do through a loyal AG beholden to him. the former official continued. Gaetz, who was the subject of a federal sex trafficking probe that ended without charges, understands that he owes everything to Trump, who can protect Gaetz as well through his pardon power. Multiple current and former senior Justice Department and FBI officials have begun reaching out to lawyers in anticipation of being criminally investigated by the Trump administration, according to three people with knowledge of their deliberations. Following Trumps decisive election victory, many Justice Department officials and career staffers were already nervous about the possibility that they would be targeted by Trump loyalists, particularly members of Congress. But the selection of former Rep. Matt Gaetz, a firebrand Trump ally who was the subject of a recent FBI investigation, to lead the department has sharply increased the sense of alarm, the sources said. Everything we did was aboveboard, said a former senior FBI official who has started contacting lawyers because he expects to be prosecuted himself. But this is a different world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity out of fear of becoming even more of a target, doesnt believe any attempt to prosecute him will be successful. Judges and juries have the power to throw out cases or find defendants innocent if they deem prosecutions to be baseless. But like many other current and former Justice Department officials, he is bracing for a potentially long and costly legal battle, as well as the possibility of protracted congressional investigations, after Trump takes office in January. Career FBI employees are especially vulnerable, the official added. Since they make less money than they would in the private sector, they rely on the pensions they receive after 20 years. Agents have to do 20 years, the former senior FBI official said. These people dont have options. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A former senior Justice Department official who served during Trumps first term said he, too, saw Gaetzs nomination as a sign of the seriousness of the president-elects vow to exact revenge on those who investigated him. He needs to be able to control the department, which he can do through a loyal AG beholden to him, the former Justice Department official said. Gaetz, who was the subject of a federal sex trafficking investigation that ended without charges, understands that he owes everything to Trump, who can protect Gaetz as well through his pardon power, the former official added. Trump is confident that Gaetz will do whatever Trump tells him to do. Matt Gaetz walks onstage at a Trump rally in Coachella, Calif., on Oct. 12. Trump and his supporters have consistently argued that all of the criminal investigations against him have been politically motivated, and that Justice Department and FBI officials deserve to be prosecuted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weeks before Election Day, Steven Cheung, a spokesman for Trump, called for the Jan. 6 charges and all federal and state criminal charges against Trump to be dropped. This entire case is a sham and a partisan, Unconstitutional Witch Hunt that should be dismissed entirely as should ALL of the remaining Democrat hoaxes, Cheung said. Legal experts say Trumps goal in investigating his investigators is simple: intimidate anyone who dares to probe Trumps conduct. Trump aims to neutralize sources of power that may impede him, said Stephen Gillers, an ethics professor at New York University Law School. That includes the law and legal institutions. He will tolerate no interference when the departments decisions will benefit Trump and his buddies or when its power can be deployed to retaliate against his enemies. Shock inside the DOJ Justice Department officials, including Attorney General Merrick Garland, were shocked by Trumps decisive election win. For the last four years, Garland has argued that strictly following post-Watergate norms that require the Justice Department to work in a nonpartisan manner in criminal investigations would restore public trust in the Justice Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, some career Justice Department officials wept after the election, dismayed by the fact that large numbers of Americans apparently continue to believe Trumps claims that the department is a cesspool of corruption. Justice Department and FBI officials say that the Trump investigations were carried out properly. Justice Department prosecutors secured indictments from federal grand juries against Trump for his mishandling of classified documents and his efforts to reverse the 2020 election results. They expressed bafflement at what criminal charge could be brought against them as a result. Theres no crime, said a current law enforcement official. Whats the crime? Mike Davis, a conservative lawyer and Trump ally, has argued that special counsel Jack Smith could be prosecuted for breaking one of the laws that Smith accused Trump of breaking regarding the 2020 election: conspiracy against rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The statute says it is illegal for anyone to deny a person a federal right, such as voting. Smith argued that Trumps attempt to reverse the 2020 election results denied voters in multiple states the right to have their votes accurately counted. Special counsel Jack Smith speaks about an indictment of former President Donald Trump on Aug. 1, 2023, at the Justice Department in Washington. Ilya Somin, a law professor at George Mason University, said he did not see how Smith could be charged with denying Trump a federal right. I think thats absurd, he said. I dont see any legitimate charge that can be brought against Smith. Somin warned that a prosecutor can investigate an individual over a long period and find that they had broken unrelated federal laws that cover minor offenses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Trumps attorney general, for example, appoints a special prosecutor to examine the federal criminal investigations of Trump, they could find that a Justice Department or FBI official broke a federal law that does not relate to the Trump probes, such as a tax or drug infraction. If you think about it, a majority of adult Americans have probably violated federal laws, such as smoking marijuana, at some point in their lives, Somin said. Special counsel Robert Mueller, during his investigation of whether Trump campaign officials coordinated with Russia during the 2016 campaign, charged multiple Trump associates with unrelated crimes. Paul Manafort, Trumps campaign chairman, was sentenced to just under four years in prison after being convicted of tax and bank fraud. A special counsel appointed by Attorney General William Barr, John Durham, then spent years scrutinizing the actions of the CIA and FBI in connection with Russias 2016 election interference efforts, only to net a single guilty plea from an FBI lawyer who lied on a document. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But many of those investigated by Durham had to spend thousands of dollars on legal fees. Now, a new group of Justice Department and FBI officials are facing the prospect of hefty legal fees as well. Gillers, the NYU professor, said that he believes Trumps nomination of Gaetz was the beginning, not the end, of his efforts to exact revenge on the department. Elevating Gaetz is in part payback for Jack Smiths two indictments, Gillers said. The Justice Department is Trumps white whale, and like Captain Ahab, Trump is determined to get even. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com PENNINGTON GAP, Va. (WJHL) An inmate has died after a fight involving multiple people at the United States Penitentiary (USP) Lee in Pennington Gap, Virginia Saturday. According to a release from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), the fight took place on Saturday at around 5:46 p.m. The release said prison staff responded to a fight involving multiple inmates, and they isolated and contained all parties. The release said employees conducted life-saving measures on a man while awaiting EMS response. The inmate, named Sofio Nieto Jr., 43, was pronounced deceased at an area hospital, according to the release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jury finds Sean Williams guilty on all 3 counts of child porn production Mr. Nieto was a 43-year-old male who was originally sentenced in the Northern District of Texas to an aggregate 108-month sentence for Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribution of a Controlled Substance, Supervised Release Violation, and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, the release states. He had been in custody at USP Lee since July 2022. Four incarcerated individuals aside from Nieto were taken to a local hospital for further evaluation, and two other inmates were medically assessed at the prison. The release said no employees or additional inmates were injured in the fight, and the public was never in danger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement USP Lee added that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has been notified. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. Trump powers his voters Trump campaigns false claims about Haitians eating pets in Ohio stoke immigration fears (fresnobee.com, Oct. 23) After Jan. 6, it became clear to me that Donald Trump, the worst U.S. president ever, is not the real problem here. Who is? The 75 million people who voted for him. Trumps campaign was vile and inhumane, but my concern is that the vileness and muck he continues to exhibit have now given permission to his supporters to act in the same manner now publicly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump showed us that he is above reproach, and accountable to no one. He sets the stage for his followers to exhibit open vileness and inhumanity, in the form of the racial hatred, disrespect of other people and their religions, homophobia and misogynous rhetoric. Where is our country heading? What kind of people do we want our children to become? A failure to reflect on these questions would be to the detriment of us all. Because, right now, our reality is such that our leader is a criminal, our values are non-existent and our so-called great country is a myth. Jovita Harrah Fresno Opinion Dont deport ag labor Trumps new pick for border czar says workplace immigration raids planned (fresnobee.com, Nov. 10) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now that Central Valley corporate agriculture interests got their way on Election Day, the pilgrimage of their lobbyists and $1,000-an-hour lawyers to Washington, D.C. will commence. The purpose? To beg the newly anointed one to not deport their labor force come January. Even economist Milton Friedman, one of their early prophets, declared over 40 years ago that illegal immigration from Mexico was good for America. No doubt, those same corporate ag interests will continue to gloat by not removing their campaign billboards along Highway 41 south of Fresno. Sean P. Boyd Fresno Who will milk the cows? How Donald Trumps deportation plan would work (fresnobee.com, Nov. 6) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement California is the nations top dairy cow milk production state an over $7 billion critical industry to our nations milk production. There are about 1,100 dairy farms in California, with the Central Valley in the lead. When President Donald Trump implements his massive deportation of undocumented immigrants, it will have a big impact on the dairy farms (as its estimated that undocumented workers perform 70% of dairy farm labor). I believe many local citizens (some may be receiving unemployment checks), will happily take jobs requiring them to get up at 4 a.m. to start milking cows at about 5 a.m. Right? Bob Mulholland Chico Clovis monuments I have a question for the Clovis City Council: Why are all of you so reluctant to have monuments or streets dedicated to Martin Luther King Jr. or any other African American leaders? Clovis has many monuments and streets named and dedicated to important people of Clovis past. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clovis also has a giant monument dedicated to bull riders and such. However, the city does not have any streets or monuments dedicated to anyone who is Black or Hispanic. It is time for Clovis to lose its close-minded attitudes toward people of color and highlight individuals who have made this country as well as our city what it is today. Steven Trevino Jr. Clovis During the panel discussion, opinions were shared on the benefits of the green transition for SMEs, the responsible approach of businesses toward the environment, climate financing, and the needs of entrepreneurs in creating green businesses, Azernews reports. The panel on "The Role of SMEs in the Green Economy" was held as part of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in Baku. The event, organized by the Small and Medium Business Development Agency (KOBIA/SMBDA) in the "Green Zone," brought together officials, representatives of international organizations, business leaders, and start-ups working on "green economy" projects. Manuela Traldi, President of the Italy-Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce; Orkhan Mammadov, Chairman of KOBIAs Board of Directors; Dima Al-Khatib, Director of the UN South-South Cooperation Office and Head of SESRICs Statistical, Economic, and Social Research and Training Center for Islamic Countries; Zehra Zumrut Selcuk, Director of the International Trade Center; Vanessa Erogbogbo, Head of the Department at the International Trade Center; and Jonathan Ortmans, Founder and President of the Global Entrepreneurship Network, all participated in the panel discussion. Speakers addressed the role of SMEs in the global economy and employment, their contribution to combating climate change, climate financing, and the benefits of the green transition for businesses. They also discussed the importance of Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) principles in the green transformation of businesses, along with the responsibilities entrepreneurs have toward the environment. The event highlighted that the green transformation of SMEs can be achieved through global and national cooperation. Participants were invited to join the "Baku Coalition Declaration for Green Climate Transition of SMEs," an initiative put forward by KOBIA. It was noted that the International Trade Center, Brazils Micro and Small Enterprise Support Service (SEBRAE), and UN high-level climate change champion Nigar Arpadarai have already expressed their support by signing the declaration. The panel also discussed the steps needed to support SMEs during their transition to a green economy and increase their environmental responsibility. In addition, Tim Cheston, Senior Research Manager at Harvard Universitys "Growth Lab" Center for International Development, presented the global "Green Growth Portal," developed through a collaboration between the Ministry of Economy and Harvard. Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha condemned the attack on journalists and said it would not be tolerated under any circumstances. Addressing an event in Agartala on the occasion of National Press Day, CM Saha highlighted the media's role in providing impartial and objective news benefitting the people. "In such cases, the law will take its course. Additionally, the media must provide impartial and objective news for the benefit of the people. This will be good for both the country and the state," CM Saha said. The Chief Minister attended the Sharad Samman program at Rabindra Shatabarshiki Bhavan on Saturday as part of Press Day. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister extended his congratulations to all journalists, news workers, and everyone associated with the press. "Today, news media are also contributing to various social activities beyond delivering news. The Sharad Samman is one such initiative. Therefore, apart from providing news, the media should also contribute to building society," he said. CM Saha acknowledged that the government is not infallible and stressed the role of the media in highlighting errors responsibly. "Now that we are in government, we too may make mistakes. The media have to point them out. However, this must be done impartially, ensuring that no one is unfairly maligned or overly favoured. Honest and accurate information should be presented to the public. If our mistakes are pointed out, we will certainly try to rectify them," he stated. The Chief Minister also remarked on the evolution of media, from print to electronic and web platforms. "Today, we receive news for free from various sources. I regularly monitor the news and discuss issues with officials based on these reports. This highlights the significant role of the media in society. Social change cannot be achieved solely by the government or the cabinet. The media has a crucial responsibility in this regard," he said. He further emphasized that since assuming the Chief Minister's office, he has taken immediate action on reports of attacks on journalists. "I have not ignored any such reports. Attacks on journalists will not be tolerated under any circumstances. The law and order situation in Tripura is stable, even though the opposition claims otherwise," he added. The event was attended by Rajya Sabha MP Rajib Bhattacharya, Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath, Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, Mayor and MLA Dipak Majumder, Headlines Tripura Editor Pranab Sarkar, writer of the movie Laapata Ladies Biplab Goswami, and other dignitaries. (ANI) By Nidal al-Mughrabi CAIRO (Reuters) - Dozens of Palestinians were killed or injured in an Israeli strike on a multi-storey residential building housing at least six families in northern Gaza's Beit Lahiya town on Sunday, medics and residents said. The Palestinian Civil Emergency said around 70 people were living in the property but the Gaza government media office put the number of those killed at 72. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Israeli military, which has been fighting Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza since October 2023, said several strikes were conducted overnight on "terrorist targets" in Beit Lahiya with everything possible done to avoid civilian harm. "All information released by the Hamas-run Ministry of Health should be treated with caution, as it has been repeatedly proven unreliable in previous incidents," it said. Video footage of the strike site obtained by Reuters showed locals pulling bodies from a huge pile of rubble, with surrounding houses also damaged, some heavily. The Israeli army sent tanks into Beit Lahiya and the nearby towns of Beit Hanoun and Jabalia, the largest of the Gaza Strip's eight historic refugee camps, last month in what it said was a campaign to fight Hamas militants waging attacks and prevent them from regrouping. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It said it has killed hundreds of militants in those three areas, which residents said Israeli forces had isolated from Gaza City. MOUNTING DEATHS A statement by the armed wing of Islamic Jihad, an ally of Hamas, on Sunday said fighters blew up an Israeli army vehicle during fighting in Beit Lahiya. There was no immediate comment from Israel on the claim. Later on Sunday, an Israeli strike killed five Palestinians, tasked with escorting aid trucks that entered the enclave, according to residents in Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza Strip. Another strike in Gaza City killed two men, they added. Earlier in the day, an Israeli air strike killed at least 10 people in the Bureij camp in the central Gaza Strip, when a missile hit a house, medics said. Four other people were killed in the nearby Nuseirat camp, they added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Qatar has told Hamas and Israel it will stall efforts to mediate a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal until they show "willingness and seriousness" to resume talks. The two warring sides continue to trade blame. Hamas wants a deal that ends the war, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the war can only end once Hamas is eradicated. The Gaza health ministry said 43,800 people have been confirmed killed since Oct. 7, 2023. Hamas militants killed around 1,200 Israelis that day, and still hold dozens of some 250 hostages they took back to Gaza, according to Israeli tallies. (Reporting by Nidal Al-Mughrabi in Cairo, Emily Rose in Jerusalem; Editing by Kirsten Donovan and Andrew Cawthorne) Officers with the Seattle Police Department arrested a driver who they believed showed signs of impairment after a rollover crash into Lake Washington Saturday evening that critically injured a teenage girl. Detective Brian Pritchard with SPD Public Affairs said officers arrested a 20-year-old woman Saturday evening for her role in a rollover crash into Lake Washington in South Seattles Rainier Valley neighborhood, critically injuring a 17-year-old girl. The girl remains in critical condition at Harborview Medical Center as of Sunday morning. The woman is facing vehicular assault as a result of the crash. Police said shortly before 6 p.m. Saturday, officers with the department went to the Atlantic City Boat Ramp on Seward Park Avenue South regarding reports of a car submerged under the water. When officers and paramedics from Seattle Fire arrived at the ramp, they found a 20-year-old woman on the shore in stable condition. She told emergency personnel that a 17-year-old girl was still in the water. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Divers with SFD and harbor patrol officers with SPD went into the water and searched for the girl, pulling her out unresponsive. Paramedics started CPR and took her to Harborview Medical Center in critical condition. Following an investigation by the Traffic Collision Investigation Squad and officers with SPD, police found that the woman and girl parked at the ramp before the incident. But, the driver crashed and rolled over into the water. The driver got out of the car through a window followed by the girl, but the girl couldnt swim to shore. Police said the driver showed signs of impairment. She was taken into custody at the scene for vehicular assault. KIRO 7 reached out to Pritchard regarding why the car crashed, and he said that an operator error caused it to plunge into the water. There were no further details to provide at this time. If you have any information about this incident, please contact the Traffic Collision Investigations Squad at 206-684-8923. A drone attacked the Kupol plant in the city of Izhevsk, located in Udmurtia [a federal subject of the Russian Federation], on the night of 16-17 November. The plant is fulfilling orders for Russia's Defence Ministry. Source: Radio Liberty; The Insider Details: The Kupol electromechanical plant reportedly produces air defence systems and other military equipment. The US Department of the Treasury imposed sanctions on the facility in October for its participation in the Harpy UAV project. Media reports indicate that this marks the first time a drone has attacked Udmurtia. The plant in question on the map. Photo: Google Maps Support UP or become our patron! A foul-mouthed former Philippine president who jailed political rivals, insulted the pope and claims to have hired death squad gangsters is running for re-election in his hometown in a desperate bid to strengthen his scandal-hit political dynasty. Labeled Asias Trump by some commentators due to his unorthodox leadership style and bombastic rhetoric, Rodrigo Duterte is aiming for a perhaps even more unlikely political comeback than Donald Trumps seismic return to the White House. Duterte, 79, wants to return as mayor of Davao City, on the southern island of Mindanao, where he held power for more than two decades before leading the archipelago nation between 2016 and 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His return to politics is about more than a personal quest for power, analysts say its an attempt to shore up support for his family against the Philippines other famed political dynasty the Marcoses, who have an opposing vision for the country, particularly its relationships with the United States and China. In a political culture dominated by clan-based alliances, the Marcoses and the Dutertes made a vow of unity when Dutertes daughter, Sara Duterte-Carpio, ran for vice president alongside Ferdinand Marcos Jr. son of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos, who died in exile in 1989 after a brutal 21-year reign. The duo won a landslide victory in 2022, but not even halfway through their term the alliance is disintegrating as Duterte-Carpio faces calls for her impeachment for alleged corruption, which she denies. The Marcos-Duterte fallout has since descended into public tirades and name-calling a hallmark of Rodrigo Dutertes years as a straight-talking, filter-free president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Richard Heydarian, senior lecturer at the Asian Center of the University of the Philippines, says the older Duterte has entered the political maelstrom to bolster his familys defenses as they fight battles on several fronts. The Dutertes are at their most vulnerable moment in almost a decade, he said. Death squads and a war on drugs Duterte soared to power on a promise to replicate on a national scale his anti-crime crackdown in the familys stronghold of Davao, winning the 2016 presidential election in a landslide. In the years that followed, more than 6,000 people were killed in his war on drugs, according to police data, though independent monitors believe the number of extrajudicial killings could be much higher. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many of the victims were young men from impoverished shanty towns, shot by police and rogue gunmen as part of a campaign to target dealers. The bloodshed prompted an investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) and a monthslong House of Representatives inquiry, as well as a separate Senate inquiry led by the cousin of the current president. In a House hearing Wednesday, Duterte declared that he was finally ready to face the ICC, even urging prosecutors to hurry up and start the investigation tomorrow. In typically combative fashion, however, he also told the 12-hour long hearing that he would kick any ICC investigators who came to the Philippines to face him. Dutertes fighting talk comes after the former president made a stark admission to the Senate inquiry last month during his first public appearance in the investigations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before an audience of millions watching on television and online, Duterte told lawmakers he hired a death squad of gangsters to kill criminals while mayor of Davao City, 600 miles (965 kilometers) from the capital Manila. I can make the confession now if you want, Duterte said. I had a death squad of seven, but they were not police, they were gangsters. But in the same hearing, Duterte distanced himself from claims he directly ordered his national police chiefs to carry out extrajudicial killings during his time as president. He also said he told police officers to encourage suspects to fight back, as legal cover for the killings. Dutertes attempts to fend off criticism come as his daughter fights calls for her impeachment over claims she misappropriated funds from both the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers in September deferred the approval of budgets to her office as allied political clans at odds with the Dutertes demanded more transparency and accountability over her public spending. Families and supporters of victims of former president Duterte's war on drugs gather at the inauguration of the country's first mausoleum for the victims of extrajudicial killings in Manila, Philippines on May 1, 2024. - Jes Aznar/Getty Images Heydarian, the analyst, said Dutertes decision to run for Davao mayor marks an attempt to keep the family politically relevant, and is likely an acknowledgment that he may not have what it takes to run for a seat in the national legislature. His return to Davao may also serve to support his sons incumbent Davao mayor Sebastian Duterte and congressman Paolo Duterte who are contesting the Davao election but are viewed as out of touch with locals, Heydarian said. Its always foolish to underestimate the Dutertes given their almost fanatical base in certain parts of the country, but I think it would also not be foolish to think that the Dutertes are also now facing an existential crisis, Heydarian said. From unity to animosity The Marcos-Duterte alliance was always an unlikely one. But major cracks appeared in January, when Rodrigo Duterte called Marcos a drug addict and threatened that the president could be removed from power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Months later, Vice President Duterte-Carpio resigned as education secretary, a departure seen by analysts as a sign that the relationship between the countrys top leaders was beyond repair. All smiles in a show of unity from Sara Duterte-Carpio and Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the presidential inauguration on June 30, 2022. - Ezra Acayan/Getty Images In October, Duterte-Carpio aired a litany of grievances against the president in a two-hour livestreamed press conference, saying she wanted to chop his head off. She said the Marcoses used her to propel themselves to victory in the 2022 election. At one point, Duterte-Carpio spoke about Ferdinand Marcos Sr. the late patriarch and longtime dictator. She said she had become so incensed by the attacks on her that she wanted to dig up his body and throw it in the West Philippine Sea. Despite this, Duterte-Carpio told reporters she does not regret running for vice president under Marcos. They can drag me to hell, she said. And when they get there, I will be the president of hell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Marcos insisted he thought he and the vice president were friends. I always thought that we were, he told reporters on the sidelines of an Association of Southeast Asian Nations conference in September. But maybe I was deceived. His son, Sandro Marcos, entered the fray, saying in a rare statement that he cannot remain silent as the vice president threatens to exhume a former president and behead an incumbent one. At the heart of the feud is geopolitics, specifically how the Philippines should balance its relationships with China and the US, according to Ranjit Singh Rye, an assistant professor of political science at the University of the Philippines. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte attend an education-related event in Manila on January 25, 2024. - Kyodo News/Getty Images The incumbent Marcos administration has leaned more closely toward Washington the Philippines oldest and closest ally particularly strengthening its military alliance, in a move that reverses Dutertes pro-Beijing tilt for investment in infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cozying up to China is believed to have led to the nefarious proliferation of the gambling and online scams industry, with alleged links to Chinese organized crime, under Dutertes administration. The leaders split views on the Philippines geopolitical standing ultimately divided the Marcos-Duterte alliance, according to Rye. The differences are irreconcilable because they both represent a different vision of where the Philippines needs to go and how the Philippines needs to be governed, Rye said. Home turf survival When Duterte filed his candidacy in Davao, he was met by a roaring crowd of supporters. I want to serve you. Davao is better than yesterday, he told reporters, implying its current progress was due to his past iron grip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The midterm elections are not until May 2025 but politicking and campaigning in the Philippines starts punishingly early, and thousands of local posts are up for grabs across the country of just under 120 million people, from district councilors and mayors to lawmakers. Cleve Arguelles, a political scientist and head of polling firm WR Numero, said the outcome could shape the political landscape for years to come. In Davao, five members of the once-mighty Duterte clan are facing off with familiar rivals. Along with Sebastian, who will be his fathers running mate, Rodrigos eldest son Paolo is seeking re-election to Congress and two of Paolos sons are running for other local seats. Political pundits are saying that at least one Duterte may make a bid for the presidency in 2028. The Dutertes are not just joining this race as regular players. This is a fight to the death. This is for their political survival, Arguelles said. The Dutertes biggest challenger in Davao is the Nograles clan, reigniting a decades-old family rivalry. The late Prospero Nograles remains the only person from Mindanao to have served as the nations House speaker. Though he only held the role for two years until 2010, the patriarch of the Nograles family built formidable ties with influential lawmakers and entrenched political elites across a decades-long career in local and national politics. Now, the next generation of Nograles politicians is running against the Dutertes in their shared hometown. Karlo Nograles is running against Rodrigo Duterte for the mayoralty while his sister, Margarita, a lawyer and rising TikTok influencer, is challenging Paolo. Karlo Nograles has said people in Davao deserve a chance to have real, meaningful and lasting change a message that could sway a portion of voters, Arguelles said. If the Dutertes lose the ballot in their home turf, its a sign that they have not been able to defend themselves from attacks on several fronts, Arguelles said. A lingering problem for the Dutertes is their relationship with Pastor Apollo Carreon Quiboloy, a self-styled appointed son of God and founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ church, who is wanted by the FBI for alleged sex trafficking. Quiboloy is a close supporter and spiritual adviser of Rodrigo Duterte, who regularly appeared on a church-linked media network when he was mayor of Davao and was accused by lawmakers of concealing Quiboloys whereabouts. The church leader was arrested in September after a weeks-long standoff involving nearly 2,000 officers who surrounded a sprawling church compound just outside Davao International Airport a massive operation for which Marcos took credit. Despite all the controversies and alleged links to extrajudicial killings and suspected criminals, Duterte has told Davao voters that a vote for him is a vote for order. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com A government statement released in Berlin on Sunday revealed that the easing of immigration restrictions to attract skilled workers to Germany has led to a 10% increase in the number of visas issued for this purpose over the past year. "In the first year, around 200,000 visas for employment purposes were issued, according to preliminary figures," noted a joint statement from the Foreign Office, the Immigration Ministry and the Labour Ministry. The increase had been particularly marked in visas for study, gaining a professional qualification or having foreign qualification recognized, it said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said skilled workers could now enter Germany more quickly to start work, while Labour Minister Hubertus Heil emphasized the economy's need for skills. "The law is taking effect. Visa issue and consultations abroad are at a record level," Heil said. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock noted long delays in seeing a doctor and finding a car mechanic or carpenter in Germany. "Every year 400,000 clever heads and even more clever hands are lacking that will strengthen our country as a modern and attractive country for immigration," she said. Germany had passed the most modern immigration law in Europe, Baerbock said, noting that digitalization had speeded up the visa-issuing process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first part of the immigration reforms went into effect in November 2023 with the aim of updating a 2020 law and promoting the immigration of skilled workers. It included easing restrictions on the EU Blue Card, a residence permit for university graduates and foreign nationals with professional experience. Since March, qualified skilled workers with professional experience can enter Germany to work without first securing recognition for their qualifications. They no longer have to show that they have passed a course recognized in Germany. Instead the offer of a job paying at least 40,770 ($43,000) gross per year is sufficient. Nov. 17One of the only measures approaching "gun control" passed by the Maine Legislature last year is at risk of being undone by a legal challenge mounted by gun rights advocates and that, to put it plainly, is a shame. The law at issue, which requires people who are buying guns to wait 72 hours to receive the gun, is designed to prevent suicide by firearm and other acts of gun violence committed impulsively. Maine became the 10th state, along with Washington, D.C., to bring in such a law. Colorado, Florida and Illinois are in this group. Three other states (Minnesota, Maryland and New Jersey) have waiting periods for certain guns. Although the American public is mostly keenly aware and afraid of the utter tragedy of the mass shooting, the vast majority of deaths by firearm here in Maine are suicides in 2022, 87% of deaths, which amounted to 156 fatalities, mostly of men and boys. Nationally, we fare very poorly: According to a 2022 report, an average of 59% of gun deaths in the U.S. were suicides in 2020, versus 86% in Maine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The waiting period is slammed by opponents as fundamentally unconstitutional and criticized as being an arbitrary standard. In Maine, as elsewhere, the statute will have been prepared secure in the expectation that it would face legal challenges. Sooner or later, we will find out whether it was made airtight enough to survive. "This is an emotional issue for many, and there are compelling arguments for and against," Gov. Janet Mills said in an April statement explaining she would let the law pass without her signature. "This is not an easy issue." This was a cautious and generous stance by the governor. It's not an easy issue, no but it was reductive to suggest that the "emotional" weight of gun violence in Maine being driven by suicide could be as compelling as the need for the state's gun shows, to give just one example, to avoid the introduction of any friction at all. The supposed "quagmire" the 72-hour pause creates for sellers and buyers and the apparent intolerability of an "administrative burden" suggests that those resistant to the law have zero appreciation for its intent, for its potential value to public safety. Arguments against such a modest attempt at making Maine's relationship to firearms more safe are self-serving. Viewed more coldly, they put commerce above concern for others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One month before the devastation of the Lewiston shooting last October, this editorial board wrote the following: "Place the 'unfair burden' of laughably dry, run-of-the-mill measures like waiting periods on purchases on those law-abiding gun owners. Even if you think they're merely symbolic, make these safeguards a reasonable condition of gun ownership, a right that has caused America such staggering loss and bloodshed. That's the only unfair burden at issue here." Our position holds. Copy the Story Link Throughout the presidential campaign, voters consistently told pollsters that they were sick and tired of Americas broken immigration system and its porous border. And to the surprise of many Democrats, that number included many Latino voters and naturalized citizens in cities like Chicago that historically built their populations by welcoming new Americans. The Democratic candidate, Kamala Harris, said little that was new or useful during the campaign on the subject. She was hamstrung by intraparty disagreement. Her progressive base generally was (and is) for no enforcement applied to ordinary persons who have broken immigration law, supporting de facto open borders by always seeing people living in the U.S. illegally as either political or economic refugees who should be welcomed and embraced. Even the once-common term illegal immigrant was changed to further that goal. But Harris also knew that progressive position, flying in the face of the rule of law, would not help her get elected. Beyond broad generalities, silence was her pragmatic option. Trump, who clearly and loudly stated he was for mass deportations of all persons lacking legal status in the U.S., jumped into that void. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Already the president-elect has announced his intentions to appoint South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem to head the Department of Homeland Security, former Immigration and Customs Enforcement head Tom Homan as his border czar and his longtime confidante Stephen Miller for White House deputy chief of staff for policy and homeland security adviser. All three are immigration hardliners. Clearly, the prior immigration bill, a so-called compromise that Trump squashed, is now chum in Trumpian waters. Already Homan has laid down the gauntlet to defensive Democratic governors such as JB Pritzker of Illinois, who said Wednesday on MSNBC, I am going to do everything that I can to protect our undocumented immigrants. They are residents of our state. (For his part, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has called the president-elect a tyrant and has said he would not allow the Chicago Police Department to aid in immigration enforcement.) Of course, immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility, and Homan said after Trumps announcement that Pritzker and other Democratic governors and mayors should get the hell out of the way if they were not going to help, implying that beefed-up ranks of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents soon would be swarming through so-called sanctuary cities like Chicago as their mayors and governors helplessly watch. And there is no reason, given the records of the players on the new roster, not to worry this will in fact be the case, especially given Trumps Truth Social statement that Homan is in charge of all Deportation of Illegal Aliens back to their Country of Origin. (sic) How should ordinary Chicagoans feel about this coming conflict? Is there reason to fear major unrest in the citys streets? Will the Democratic governors and mayors merely stand aside as Homans agents swoop into states like Illinois, with the support of a duly elected president? Will they resist, an implication of Pritzkers word protect? Will newspapers like this one soon be filled with stories of families being ripped apart? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We say there is much reason to worry about all of that. It is vital that Trump and his officials, and his opponents, cool down the rhetoric, change the tone and, ideally, reframe the debate in favor of the economic benefits to the nation of legal immigration. Job one should be expanding the avenues for legal immigration, and Homan, Miller and Noem all should be talking a lot more about that. Work-visa programs for highly educated workers need to grow exponentially. Similarly, programs for guest workers who seek semi-skilled positions, and whom population-challenged states like Illinois badly need for their workforces, also need to be expanded. And the entire asylum system must be reformed. Those who come to America to escape genuine political persecution must be effectively protected and able to gain legal status, allowing them to work and contribute to their new home. On all of that, there should be no disagreement. Similarly, its not unreasonable for the authorities to expeditiously deport those in noncompliance who have broken serious laws. On MSNBC, even Pritzker allowed that there are certain circumstances in which the federal government, state governments should work together to allow deportation. An example would be somebody whos been convicted of a violent crime. So that is another area of broad agreement, and the new administration should move in those cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But thats where clear agreement ends. Pritzker certainly implied on MSNBC that he was uneasy with deporting those law-abiding undocumented immigrants in this country who had been issued final deportation orders by a federal court, at least beyond requesting someone leave voluntarily. He did note that he would not be able to stop any such enforcement by the feds. Of course, current U.S. law says noncitizens merely falling out of compliance with their visa are subject to deportation and the feds even accept anonymously reported tips. Reportedly, there are well over 1 million people living in the U.S. who have received final deportation orders and were told to leave the country but have stayed. Several thousand live in Chicago. Here is the third rail of this debate: Many leading progressives dont want this law enforced, but they also dont want to say out loud that they want decriminalization of all immigration violations because that position doesnt have enough popular support. Trump used that Democratic illogic to help get himself elected on the grounds that he, and only he, would actually maintain the rule of law in an area that everyone agrees is a federal responsibility. There is no question Trump will have the right to enforce federal immigration laws. But how Trump uses his power once he returns to the White House will probably say more about what happens now in America than any other policy decision he makes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The big question here to our minds is how the nation ethically deals with the simple reality that it has not meaningfully enforced its own laws for years due to American internal conflict and thus has tacitly encouraged people to cross the border illegally. Thats the best argument for some form of compassionate Ronald Reagan-style amnesty for otherwise law-abiding persons already here for several years, people who have formed family and community bonds and often live in mixed-status households and have been tacitly encouraged to do so by the lack of enforcement that Trump now wants corrected. So by all means secure the border, Mr. Trump. By all means require employers to use the existing E-Verify system to know a potential workers status and require them to follow the law. By all means remove the relatively small number of undocumented people guilty of serious criminal offenses. By all means, discourage people from crossing the border in violation of the law and remove incentives to do so. And, yes, you are within your rights to insist that those who have been told by a courts final order to leave actually go. (Ideally, with leave to try again if they do so according to the rules.) Otherwise there is no point in those orders being issued in the first place. But also start talking about the power of legal immigration, start boosting its numbers, and easing the red tape and the endless delays. Mr. Trump, get your hardliners talking about that as well as enforcement. And for heavens sake, look after the kids who were brought here by their parents through no choice of their own and have found themselves in school or at work after living for years in a country that enabled that reality if only through its own governmental inaction. Most Americans, including most Republicans, oppose national cruelty and support giving that group, branded by Democrats as Dreamers, this one-time chance. What a powerful and pragmatic opening gesture that would be for this Republican administration. Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com. A 43-year-old Eldridge man faces a felony charge after police say he broke the jaw and nose of a victim and also fractured the victims eye socket, according to court documents. Joseph Hollingshed faces a felony charge of kidnapping along with an aggravated misdemeanor charge of domestic abuse second offense, court records say. Joseph Hollingshed (Scott County Jail) According to arrest affidavits, Scott County deputies say that shortly before 6:15 p.m. Friday, Hollingshed punched a victim multiple times with a closed fist to the point the victim became unconscious outside an apartment complex and was dragged against the victims will into an apartment, where the victim was confined in the bathroom and was unable to call 911. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hollingshed, deputies say in affidavits, interfered with the investigation when being questioned about the whereabouts of the victim, telling uniformed deputies the victim was not inside the residence and left with someone else. The victim walked out of the bathroom with a bloody/swollen face during the conversation with (Hollingshed,) deputies say in affidavits. The serious injury the victim received was a broken nose, a fractured jaw, a fractured orbital eye socket and a possible brain bleed. The victim believed they would be killed by Hollingshed, according to affidavits. Hollingshed, who was being held Saturday on a $100,000 cash-only bond in Scott County Jail, is set for a preliminary hearing Nov. 26 in Scott County Court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement First-degree kidnapping is a Class A felony in Iowa, where it is punishable by a mandatory life sentence without the possibility for parole or probation. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com. Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma launched an all-out attack on the Congress party as he commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. Addressing a press conference in Maharashtra's Mira Bhyander on Saturday, he commended the development of the country under PM Modi's leadership and said India witnessed an extraordinary transformation since 2014. He further pointed out that Modi's government not only eradicated terrorism and Naxalism but also brought about significant development and welfare schemes for the poor. Speaking at the Mira Bhayander conference, he stated that during Congress's long tenure, the country was plagued by widespread corruption and terrorist attacks. "During Congress rule, we read about such heart-breaking terrorist incidents that our newspapers were soaked with tears," he said. CM Sharma exuded confidence that the BJP will continue to rule the nation for many years to come and that people will no longer be duped by the Congress party's corruption and false promises. He claimed that Congress is no longer able to influence the people by its employment of lies, corruption, and appeasement politics. He highlighted the BJP government's accomplishments, claiming that every promise made by Prime Minister Modi in 2014 had been fulfilled by 2019 and that all promises made in 2019 were accomplished by 2023. He reassured the nation that the Mahayuti alliance government in Maharashtra would also keep all of its promises. The Chief Minister also appreciated the contributions of the Rajasthan community, which has worked hard to achieve distinguished success in Maharashtra. He invited the community to attend the 'Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit', which will be held from December 9 to 11, 2024 and encouraged them to invest in Rajasthan to strengthen their ties with the state. Given the Maharashtra election, Sharma urged people to support the Mahayuti candidates. "All of you are requested to make your contacts aware of the achievements of the BJP government and urge them to press the lotus button in the elections," he said. The event was attended by Rajsamand MLA Deepti Kiran Maheshwari, Ahore MLA Chhagan Singh Rajpurohit, senior BJP leaders, and a large number of Rajasthani community members. Voting for the 288-member Maharashtra assembly will be held on November 20 and votes will be counted on November 23. (ANI) PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) An Elephants Deli worker loading a cargo truck held on to the back of the truck as a thief jumped into the drivers seat and took off from a Milwaukie warehouse early Friday morning. The incident, caught on surveillance video, happened around 4 a.m. The warehouse employees were loading an Elephants Delicatessen delivery truck when a man later identified as Forrest Guayante got into the cab of the truck and drove away with one employee still inside the back of the truck. Video clearly shows the woman hanging onto the back as packaged food flies out. Then she jumped off. A screen shot of surveillance video shows an Elephants Deli worker hanging onto the back of a truck as it is stolen from a Milwaukie warehouse. The woman jumped off and was not hurt, November 15, 2024 (Milwaukie PD) It was pretty wild, Elephants Deli manager Chris Mathieu said. Did not expect anything like that to happen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cottage Grove man accused of luring a minor, officials suspect additional victims But he and his co-workers began tracking the truck using an air tag. Over the course of the day, we were in Hayden Island, Beaverton, Tualatin and or Southeast, North Interstate. I mean, we were all over town, Mathieu told KOIN 6 News. Eventually they located the truck in a parking lot on Southwest Walker Road and Cedar Hill in Beaverton. By the time we eventually we were in Beaverton, and we knew that the person was driving recklessly, we were really nervous, he said. We didnt want anything bad to happen. They called police and guided them to the truck where Guayante was still inside. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our guy saw him and then Beaverton (police) showed up real quick, he said. Police identify cyclist killed in Northeast Portland hit-run near elementary school The 29-year-old suspect allegedly rammed a police vehicle and then ran away from the truck before a K9 caught him. Guayante was charged with unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, reckless endangering, attempt to elude(felony), hit and run, and unlawful possession of methamphetamine. A man was arrested after police say he stole an Elephants Delicatessen truck with an employee still inside on Nov. 15, 2024. (Courtesy: Milwaukie PD) Mathieu said theyre now taking a closer look at what happened and evaluating safety measures. Im just glad that everyone is more or less OK, Mathieu said. I mean, thats my only thoughts on the process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As for the worker who jumped off the moving truck at the beginning, Mathieu said he was really impressed. She was a real trooper yesterday after it happened. She had a great attitude about it, and she seemed to be processing it really well. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. Attorneys for X Corp., the firm established by Elon Musk to take over Twitter, filed a notice of appearance on Thursday in the bankruptcy case of Alex Jones and his Infowars platform. The new owners of satirical news site The Onion had been declared the successful bidders for Jones controversial platform, alongside families of the Sandy Hook massacre victims. But this week, the Texas bankruptcy judge overhearing the case voiced concerns about the transparency of the auction process and called for a new hearing to discuss those potential issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nobody should feel comfortable with the results of the auction, Judge Christopher M. Lopez said, according to a Bloomberg News report. The X Corp. filing, dated Nov. 14 and first reported by Mother Jones, does not disclose the purpose of Xs appearance, other than to state the rights reserved to it as an interested party, and to request all relevant documents in the case. Attorneys for X listed in the filing did not respond to a request for comment. A lawyer representing The Onion also did not respond to a request for comment. Both Musk and Jones are known allies of President-elect Donald Trump. Musk has allowed Infowars to broadcast on X while Infowars fate is in limbo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jones has used Infowars as a platform to promote conspiracy theories, far-right ideologies and misinformation. He often focuses on events and social issues to sell related products like supplements and survival gear. Jones bankruptcy stems from his obligation to pay $1.5 billion in damages to families of Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting victims, who filed defamation lawsuits over his false claims that the massacre was a hoax. He broadcast the conspiracy theory on his platform, which led to years of harassment and threats against the grieving families. In a statement on X, The Onions chief executive, Ben Collins who previously covered disinformation and conspiracy theories for NBC News called assertions made this week by Jones and other Infowars personnel that the auction had formally been overturned false, while describing other allegations they leveled as wacky. We look forward to completing this process at the next scheduled court date, Collins wrote Saturday. A representative for Infowars did not immediately respond to a request for comment. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Atlanta-based Delta is facing a discrimination lawsuit. It claims the airline retaliated against Jewish employees. One worker believes Delta knowingly compromised worker safety by hiring four flight attendants that openly expressed hate toward Israel and supported Hamas. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The suit alleges the company did not follow standard diversion protocol when a passenger got violent on a flight from Tel Aviv to New York last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Delta told us it cannot comment on pending litigation. But said the company has zero tolerance for discrimination or retaliation of any form in the workplace. TRENDING STORIES: Delta is also involved in a lawsuit of its own suing cyber-security firm crowd strike for its role in the globe software outage. The five-day meltdown caused more than 6,000 flight cancellations. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] ENTERPRISE, Ala. (WDHN) After serving his community for over 50 years, one Wiregrass rescue captain was recognized for his service earning a Lifetime Achievement Award. Captain Anthony Cole of Enterprise Rescue was honored by the Alabama Ambulance Association with the Lifetime Achievement Award, now named the Patty Brown Award. Cole has served Enterprise Rescue for 53 years. He joined Enterprise Rescue as an 18-year-old, rising through the ranks and prioritizing patients. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His motto: Whats best for the patient? Lets get it done! When accepting this prestigious award, Cole told the crowd how honored he was to receive it, highlighting the significance of this recognition. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com. Miss Universe Cuba caused a splash in her national costume on the preliminary night of Miss Universe 2024 in Mexico City. Marianela Ancheta wore an outfit inspired by the Yoruba goddess of love and beauty Oshun, which is also identified with the Virgin of Charity of Cobre, patron saint of Cuba, in the Thursday night competition. Ancheta stunned in a yellow dress with gold sparkles, fitted around the torso with a gladiator-style bustier, which extended into a tight collar around the neck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most spectacular part of the outfit, created by Venezuelan designer Dan Rojas, was the crown, conceived as a large hat with details of sunflowers the flower given as an offering to Oshun with a texture that imitates natural fibers, a tribute to the yarey hat of Cuban farmers. Another significant detail of the outfits styling is that Ancheta was barefoot, which gave her lightness of movement compared to the other contestants, who mostly wore high heels. This touch of informality, which also allowed her legs to be seen through the deep slits up the side of the dress, also refers to the goddess Oshun and her essence as queen of the rivers. It was also a bold design choice that no details of the dress included red, blue or white, the colors of the Cuban flag. Ancheta is the first woman to represent Cubans in 57 years, when Fidel Castro decided that Cuba would no longer participate in beauty contests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That crown belongs to Cuba, promised Ancheta upon winning Miss Universe Cuba on Sept. 26 in Hialeah. Marianela Ancheta, Miss Universe Cuba, llevo un traje amarillo dorado con una corona de girasoles inspirado en Oshun y la virgen de la Caridad del Cobre en el desfile de la noche preliminar de Miss Universo 2024, el 14 de noviembre en Ciudad de Mexico. The Cuban queen, born in Ranchuelo, Villa Clara, told el Nuevo Herald before leaving for the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico that she lit a candle to what she was going to wear. Oshun is seen as a maternal, kind and protective deity, but she can also be strong and firm when necessary, Ancheta wrote on her Instagram profile. For many Cubans, Oshun also represents the ability to overcome difficulties with grace and resilience, qualities that many people associate with the Cuban spirit. Her traditional colors are yellow and gold, and she is said to like honey, pumpkin and cinnamon, added Ancheta. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The preliminary night also featured the highly anticipated swimsuit competition. Ancheta wore a dark blue suit with a deep neckline and crossed straps, which made her stand out from the contestants in bikinis. But Ancheta did not win the title of Miss Universe 2024. That distinction went to Victoria Kjr Theilvig, 21, of Denmark, the first Dane to win the competition. On Saturday night, she bested more than 120 contestants to win the annual beauty pageant, which was held in Mexico City. Chidimma Adetshina of Nigeria finished as first runner-up and Maria Fernanda Beltran of Mexico was named second runner-up. Suchata Chuangsri of Thailand and Ileana Marquez Pedroza of Venezuela followed, CNN reported. Estonia's cabinet approved a proposal to deliver another package of military aid for Ukraine on Nov. 16, the country's Defense Ministry announced. The latest aid package will include an unspecified amount of munitions and military equipment, including naval uniforms, observation equipment, sights, and protective equipment. It was not immediately clear as to when the package is expected to arrive in Ukraine. The approval comes just days after Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur visited Kyiv on Nov. 11, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelensky and broadly announced a new aid package for Ukraine consisting of "clothing" and "small arms." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Ukraine continues to need help from Estonia and the free world to protect itself. This time, the aid package has been put together from the reserves of our defense forces, taking into account the needs of Ukraine, and still in such a way that Estonia's defense capability does not suffer," Pevkur said in a statement. "This aid package will not be the last, and in the near future we will open a competition-based annual support measure for Estonian companies, which will enable Ukraine to assist with the production of the Estonian defense industry," Pevkur added. Ukraine's Defense Ministry announced on Nov. 8 that Estonian arms company Frankenburg Technologies will transfer air defense missiles to Ukraine for testing. Estonia has been among Kyiv's staunchest supporters since the start of the full-scale invasion began, offering humanitarian, developmental, and military assistance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Estonia and Ukraine signed a 10-year bilateral security agreement on June 26. The deal stipulates that Estonia will supply Ukraine with defense aid worth more than 100 million euros ($107 million). Estonia has provided over 500 million euros ($527 million) in military aid to Ukraine since February 2022, amounting to 1.4% of the country's gross domestic product (GDP), ranking among the top military supporters of Ukraine as a percentage of the country's GDP. Read also: North Korea delivers 70 missile launchers, artillery systems to Russias Kursk Oblast, FT reports Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The winners of a EuroMillions jackpot have revealed the extremely ordinary item they first purchased after winning 114.9 million. Patrick and Frances Connolly from County Armagh, Northern Ireland, won 114,969,775 on New Years Day, 2019. The pair have donated 60 million to their loved ones, after scooping the fourth-largest UK lottery win at the time. Their biggest expenditure after their win was a six-bedroom house in County Durham with seven acres of land, while Mr Connolly drives a second-hand Aston Martin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Mrs Connolly, 58, bought a pair of M&S knickers as her first purchase with her newfound wealth. She told The Sun: We left our home with nothing, to keep us safe in case anybody found out about it and came to the house. And they did within minutes. When we arrived at a hotel in England on Friday night, ahead of the press conference, I had to phone our Fiona and say, Will you nip down to Marks & Spencer?. She got a pack of three pairs for 12 quid. Frances Connolly won 115 million in 2019 (PA) She said she has given more than half of her 115 million fortune because she is addicted to giving to others. The former social worker and teacher has set up two charitable foundations, one named after her late mother Kathleen Graham in their native Northern Ireland, and the PFC Trust in Hartlepool. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said helping others, whether with money or by volunteering her time, lifted peoples spirits. Mrs Connolly has always been motivated to help others, volunteering for the St John Ambulance from age nine and setting up an Aids helpline when she was a student in Belfast. Mr Connolly still runs plastic businesses, while Mrs Connolly devotes her time to the trusts, which have backed local community groups to help people get into work, buy electronic tablets for old people so they can connect with their families, and supported refugees. Winning such a huge sum has changed the pairs lives, but Mrs Connolly said it does not alter your personality. John Towsen and his wife, Riley Kellogg, watched in horror last Sunday as the flames in nearby trees inched closer and closer to their home of nearly five years. Suddenly, they realized they had no choice but to evacuate. We didnt know if we were coming back to the home or not, Towsen told CNN three days later, as he stood in front of his home in Greenwood Lake, about 35 miles northwest of New York City. Behind him, firefighters were still dousing the flames that had threatened the neighborhood, leaving behind rows of burnt trees. Its kind of miraculous that we do still have a home and were very thankful for that, Kellogg added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Across the street, she pointed to a home she says was destroyed by a microburst a punch of sinking air in a severe thunderstorm that could cause damage similar to a tornado during a severe thunderstorm in May, just one month after a 4.8 magnitude earthquake shook their community. The disasters that weve been experiencing, I hope that they really bring home to people whats going on, on a global scale, Kellogg said. And how, when we see the effects of it on our own lives here, that we really can connect them to whats happening all over the world and how our actions and our connections and what we do in our governments, how all of this has an effect on our lives directly. Riley Kellogg spoke to CNN from her neighborhood, which was at risk of being destroyed by the Jennings Creek/Sterling State Park fire. - CNN Its been a year of unusual extremes for New Yorkers. In April, a 4.8 magnitude earthquake rattled buildings across parts of the Northeast. Throughout the summer, multiple towns experienced tornadoes, according to the National Weather Service. In July, an EF2 tornado passed through Rome during a severe storm that killed one person and caused widespread damage. An EF1 tornado in Buffalo also damaged buildings and trees and overturned cars in August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are currently 13 wildfires across the state encompassing more than 5,000 acres, according to Governor Kathy Hochuls office. Among the fires is the Jennings Creek/Sterling State Park fire, which tore through areas along the New Jersey-New York border. An 18-year-old New York State Forest Ranger volunteer and state employee died on November 9 when a tree fell while he was responding to the wildfire in Greenwood Lake. Human-induced climate change fuels more extreme wildfire conditions globally and in the US, providing a stark reminder of how the climate crisis is upending lives and inflicting billions of dollars a year in damage. It will only get worse, according to fire experts. New York City alone has experienced over 230 brush fires since October 29, according to the New York City Fire Department. A brush fire in Brooklyns Prospect Park burned two acres of dry vegetation, spurring firefighters to battle the blaze for more than three hours, the fire department said. Only 0.01 inch of precipitation was recorded in October in New York City, making it the driest month in the city since record keeping began in 1869, a spokesperson for the New York City Emergency Management Department told CNN. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Central Park normally sees over 8.5 inches of rain in September and October but has only seen about 1.5 inches since the beginning of September, the spokesperson said. Thats a huge difference. With this lack of rainfall, drought numbers have been increasing substantially across the Northeast. As of November 5, about 55% of the region was under some sort of drought, providing plenty of fuel for wildfires. The National Weather Service issued red flag warnings for over 50 million people over the past week, including Washington DC, Philadelphia, New York and Boston. Climate change is fueling the extreme fire season Record-breaking heat waves, severe floods and wildfires, exacerbated by rapid climate change, are the new normal - and people should start getting used to unusual and extreme weather, according to climate scientists and experts. Everythings just getting a little wackier. Theres a scientist who called it Global Weirding. Everythings getting weird, Stephanie Spera, an assistant professor of geography, environment and sustainability at the University of Richmond, told CNN Almost every single person can say they have experienced an extreme weather event, whether it be hurricane or tornado or wildfire or blizzard. Its getting harder and harder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earthquakes, most of which are the result of a slippage of geologic plates sliding past each other, are not correlated to climate change, says Brenda Ekwurzel, the director of scientific excellence at the Union of Concerned Scientists. Recently, scientists have also noticed an increase in tornado reports happening in the Northeast. A record 32 tornadoes in New York have been reported to date in 2024 compared to 10 in 2023 and 7 in 2022, according to the National Weather Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. A home was destroyed by a microburst in New York in May 2024. - CNN Scientists are still investigating how the climate crisis may intensify tornado activity. Nonetheless, as climate change has created a warmer, more humid and unstable world, the conditions that produce strong thunderstorms that can form tornadoes are more likely, according to the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions. Without hesitancy, I can say warmer climates create more favorable environments for storms, create more energy for storms, and stronger storms can lead to higher incidence of tornadoes, Spera said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While scientists are less confident about climate changes general effect on severe thunderstorms, theyre more confident its driving the unusually warm temperatures that are behind droughts across New York and other parts of the country. Wildfires are fueled by a knot of factors, both natural and human-caused, but scientists say global warming is fueling more frequent, more intense and severe blazes. Hotter temperatures are the clearest climate change-fueled contributor to wildfires. In part, thats because heat sucks the moisture from vegetation, making it much more combustible. Down the road from Towsen and Kellogg, Esler and Maureen VanHouten also watched the fire inch closer to their home. Despite their fear, however, they didnt leave their community. Why would you stay? Theres earthquakes and tornadoes, but its your home, Maureen said. Something just keeps you here. Maureen and Esler VanHouten speak to CNN. - CNN The couple kept looking over their shoulders at the trucks of first responders racing up and down their road. Since the fire ignited last week, they havent been able to sleep through the night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its your home and youre just so, so scared of whats going to happen, theres so much sentimental value, Maureen said. Our kids grew up here. I know people say, Oh, its just a building, but theres so many memories. Tom Howley, the mayor of the Greenwood Lake, said their community is not used to contending with fires of this magnitude. We get snow, we get rain, we get fires, but we dont really get extremes. This is the most extreme Ive seen, Howley said. Now that the region is experiencing an increase in wildfires, people should always monitor warnings for their region, says Ekwurzel, of the Union of Concerned Scientists. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These particular wildfires are often triggered by human causes, just carelessness or something sparking something, she said. Ive been getting red flag warnings on my weather app, so I know Im not supposed to burn a fire, but if people arent getting that information, they may be inadvertently starting a little fire and not realizing just how dry the conditions are. As humans continue to heat up the world with fossil fuel pollution, scientists warn these kinds of fires will only become more common. I have two young kids and I am terrified for what this means for the future with the new administration, rolling back really progressive policies, Spera said. I wish people would care and get involved in community organizations at this point, because I dont know what else is left. Think about these places that you love and want to keep them around for your grandkids. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WNCN) Police are searching for two gunmen accused of stealing from people near the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill early Saturday morning. According to UNC police, the Chapel Hill Police Department responded between 2 a.m. and 2:30 a.m. to two armed robberies located off campus. The first incident occurred around 2:21 a.m. on West Cameron Avenue at the entrance of Granville Towers, which is a student housing complex near campus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I saw the Alert Carolina when I woke up this morning. And, its definitely just scary, because youre so close to it, said Emery Fraser, who lives in Granville Towers. Fraser told CBS 17 that many freshmen live in the student apartments. She said she always carries an alarm when walking around at night. The second robbery occurred at 2:27 a.m. in the area of Crest Street and Knoll Street, Chapel Hill police said. In both situations, two men driving a white boxy SUV got out of the car, attacked the victims and stole their personal property, UNC police said. The victims were treated for minor injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I still feel pretty good. We all carry pepper spray, and theres also one of the blue light things you can push right across from our house over there, and we have cameras, Madeline Kene told CBS 17. The suspects have not been identified or arrested, and an investigation is ongoing, police said. The community should be on the lookout, exercise caution and report any information to either Chapel Hill police or UNC police, according to a news release from UNC police. The UNC Police Department is available 24 hours a day by calling 911 in an emergency or 919-962-8100 for non-emergency assistance. Officers are also available in person at the Public Safety Building at 285 Manning Drive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Chapel Hill-Carrboro-UNC Crimestoppers, information that leads to an arrest could be eligible for a reward up to $2,000. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. During the mourning held at the TDP office on Saturday, the leaders recalled him as the voice of the poor and a man of the people. The leaders also paid floral tributes to a portrait of Ramamurthy Naidu. Ramamurthy Naidu passed away aged 72 years due to a cardiac arrest at AIG Hospitals, Gachibowli, Hyderabad on Saturday. Speaking on occasion, TDP State President Palla Srinivas Rao and Politburo Member Varla Ramaiah hailed Ramamurthy Naidu as a humanitarian who fostered unity among people. They noted his selfless dedication to public welfare and his relentless efforts for the TDP's success. The leaders praised his ideals, stating that Ramamurthy Naidu envisioned a society free of injustice and hoped for a "Rama Rajya" (a utopian state of governance). They emphasized that his goodness and humanity had earned him a permanent place in people's hearts and that individuals like him are rare. While he is no longer with us, they remarked, he will always be remembered by the people. Prominent attendees at the meeting included former MLA Peela Govind Satyanarayana, AP State Organic Products Certification Authority Chairman Shyaval Devadath, Gouda Corporation Chairman Gurumurthy, Handloom Cooperative Chairperson Sajja Hemalatha, Minority Cell President Mustaq Ahmed, Media Coordinator Dharapaneni Narendra Babu, Brahmin Welfare Committee Convener Bucchirampasad, TDP State Spokesperson Patharla Ramesh, TDP Central Office Reception In-Charge Haji Hasan Basha, NRI Cell Representative Chappidi Rajasekhar, and party leaders Shankar Naidu, Ravi Yadav, Mulaka Satyavani, and Peerayya Subhashini, among others. (ANI) The influx of Haitian immigrants has been a controversial topic in Cass County and many other communities in the United States in the past few months. Community members have expressed frustration with a lack of transparency from city officials and area businesses over an estimated population increase of 20 to 30 percent based on an uptick in use of city services. While city officials are often kept in the dark about the happenings of businesses, focus has also turned to Tyson Foods and its Tyson Fresh Meats facility on S. CR 125 West. Haitian immigrants who have spoken with the Pharos-Tribune and other media outlets have said they are here or were first brought here to work at Tyson, which has not responded to multiple requests from the Pharos-Tribune. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Haitian immigrants have often sought to come to the United States to escape political instability, economic crisis and natural disasters. Since 2021, gang violence increased exponentially leading to a massive surge of people leaving the island. Most of the Haitian immigrants in Cass County are here legally with a temporary protected status (TPS) designation by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). TPS is similar to asylum seekers, although those seeking TPS are already in the United States, while those seeking asylum are coming to the country. What is TPS? The Secretary of Homeland Security may designate a foreign country for TPS due to conditions in the country that temporarily prevent the countrys nationals from returning safely, or in certain circumstances, where the country is unable to handle the return of its nationals adequately. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement USCIS may grant TPS to eligible nationals of certain countries (or parts of countries), who are already in the United States. Eligible individuals without nationality who last resided in the designated country may also be granted TPS. Once granted TPS, an individual also cannot be detained by DHS on the basis of his or her immigration status in the United States. TPS is a temporary benefit that does not lead to lawful permanent resident status or give any other immigration status. TPS for Haiti was set to expire this past August, but was extended to February 3, 2026 by Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas. How do you maintain TPS? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Immigrants with the TPS designation can have it revoked if convicted of any felony or two or more misdemeanors in the United States. A person must also maintain continuous physical presence and continuous residence in the United States. Immigrants must also have proof of employment and re-register with TPS by a certain timeframe. In order to be authorized to work, immigrants must obtain an employment authorization document (EAD) to prove they can work in the United States for a certain time frame. A card, similar to a drivers license, is given to immigrants with employment authorization. Can TPS designees drive? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Mayorkas extended the TPS for Haiti designation several months ago, the Department of Homeland Security also sent a notice about drivers licenses. Individuals with a pending or approved TPS application may qualify for certain public benefits and REAL ID drivers licenses and identification cards. When applying for a federal, state, or local government benefit, individuals will need to show a document proving they applied for or are beneficiaries of TPS for Haiti. They then use their EAD to apply for a drivers license. According to the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles, an EAD is one of 11 valid options for an applicant to prove their identity. Immigrants will still need to pass the usual driving evaluations and vision tests to be eligible for a drivers license. Explosions occurred in the city of Kharkiv on the night of 16-17 November. Source: Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov on Telegram; Ukraine's Air Force on Telegram Quote: "Explosions are heard in the city as the enemy has launched guided aerial bombs on the city. Be careful!" Details: Ukraine's Air Force reported that Russian tactical aircraft had launched guided aerial bombs on Kharkiv Oblast. Support UP or become our patron! Claim: The White House will be listed on the sex offender registry once Donald Trump is sworn into office as president due to the verdict in E. Jean Carroll's 2023 trial against the former president. Rating: Rating: False Following former U.S. President Donald Trump's reelection in November 2024, a claim that the White House would soon be listed on a sex offender registry went viral on X. One such post making the claim, shown below, had amassed more than 5.1 million views as of this writing. Other examples of the rumor appeared elsewhere on X after Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris on Election Day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the claim is false. It is rooted in a misunderstanding of the implications of a civil defamation lawsuit between author E. Jean Carroll and Trump regarding the former president's denial that he sexually assaulted Carroll in the mid-1990s. While Trump was found liable for sexual abuse in civil court proceedings, that is not the same as being convicted for a crime, as Snopes has previously reported. Inclusion on a sex offender registry requires a criminal conviction something that a civil case is legally unable to provide. A criminal justice webpage on the website of New York State, where the civil court proceedings in Carroll and Trump's case took place, outlined that only criminal cases can lead to someone being required to register as a sex offender. Because Trump is not a convicted sex offender, the claim that the White House's address will be included on any sex offender registry come Inauguration Day is false. Sources: GovInfo. https://www.govinfo.gov/app/details/PLAW-104publ236/related. Accessed 12 Nov. 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Jury Finds Trump Liable for Sexual Abuse, Awards Accuser $5M." AP News, 10 May 2023, https://apnews.com/article/trump-rape-carroll-trial-fe68259a4b98bb3947d42af9ec83d7db. Kasprak, Alex. "Was Trump 'Found Guilty' of Sexually Assaulting E. Jean Carroll?" Snopes, 9 May 2023, https://www.snopes.com//news/2023/05/09/trump-liable-sexual-abuse/. 'New York Sex Offender Registry Frequently Asked Questions'. NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services, http://www.criminaljustice.ny.gov/nsor/faq.htm. Accessed 13 Nov. 2024. NHS bosses earning as much as 300,000 per year at the worst-performing hospital trusts in England could be facing the sack under new plans to improve performance. Wes Streeting warned earlier this week that NHS managers would be fired if they fail to perform in new NHS league tables. The Health Secretary said there would be a zero-tolerance approach to poor performance and vowed to rid the health service of rotten apples on bumper taxpayer-funded salaries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NHS England already categorises hospital trusts in four tiers based on their performance against a series of metrics as part of an oversight framework that it is understood will be used to create the public league tables. The Telegraph has identified 12 chief executives who have presided over failing NHS organisations for at least two years and which have been placed in the lowest tier, four previously called special measures and therefore require intervention from NHS England. Tier-four contenders This means they have very serious, complex issues manifesting as critical quality and/or finance concerns that require intensive support. The criteria considers factors including performance against waiting time targets, A&E and cancer care, financial deficits, ratings by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and any catastrophic failings in safety or leadership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A further eight failing hospital and ambulance trusts have had a new chief executive appointed within the last two years. All 12 organisations below are in NHS special measures and have a long-standing chief executive. East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust Tracey Fletcher was appointed chief executive of East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust in April 2022 with the task of turning around the trusts failing maternity services. A review by Dr Bill Kirkup, published in October 2022, revealed 45 baby deaths had died unnecessarily with many more subject to avoidable harm. But since then, things have only got worse, with the number of deaths rising. The CQC downgraded the trusts maternity services in 2023 from requires improvement to inadequate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, it was confirmed that an external review was underway to investigate a 34 per cent increase in neonatal deaths at the Trusts two hospitals: William Harvey Hospital in Ashford and the Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital in Margate. Meanwhile, Ms Fletcher took home 240,000 in 2023-24, according to the annual accounts. Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Professor Clive Kay has been in charge of Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust since 2019 and is the biggest earner on the list, taking home 305,000 per year. It is understood Kings College is receiving intensive support because of its huge financial deficits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hospitals chairman and financial chief both stepped down at the start of the year after its forecast deficit for 2023-24 rose from 45m to 90m. The Trusts pathology services provider, Synnovis, which provided bloodwork analysis, was hit by a cyber attack during the summer affecting tens of thousands of appointments. The hospital was also forced to defend a wheelchair rental scheme, which is free for four hours but charges patients 2 an hour after that. It said it did not receive any money from service provider Wheelshare for hosting the service. Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust Another hospital with significant maternity failings is Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust (NUH), which has been run by chief executive Anthony May since September 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donna Ockenden, a senior midwife, is currently conducting the largest ever review into maternity care, talking to almost 2,000 families that have suffered stillbirths, neonatal deaths, injured babies and mothers and maternal deaths dating back to 2012. Although the review began before Mr Mays appointment, Ms Ockenden revealed just two months ago her team were still hearing extremely disappointing reports of racism, discrimination, unkindness, lack of civility from staff to women, including some women being shouted at by members of staff, poor bereavement care. Mr May has repeatedly apologised to families who have suffered at the hands of the Trust and ensured improvements are being made. He was paid around 290,000 last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NUH also ranked second worst in October for its performance against the four-hour A&E target, with 50 per cent waiting longer. It also had one of the worst financial forecasts last year, having planned for a 6.5 million deficit in the third quarter of the 2023-24 financial year but ending up with an actual deficit of 63.8 million. Medway NHS Foundation Trust A lifelong NHS worker who trained as a nurse, Jayne Black was appointed chief executive in August 2022 and tasked with turning around Medway NHS Foundation Trusts inadequate A&E department. However, in June this year the CQC said the Trust still needed to urgently improve its A&E and revealed it had taken action against Medway Maritime Hospital in Gillingham following an inspection, but could not share details until legally able. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, the Health Service Journal (HSJ) revealed a senior manager had left the Trust after making alleged racist and sexist remarks on a work video call. The Trust also has one of the largest proportions of patients waiting more than 18 weeks for a hospital appointment in England, according to data published this week, with 49 per cent waiting longer than that target timeframe. A spokesman said this was because of capacity issues in the endoscopy department that were being addressed. Ms Black earns 200,000 per year. Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust Liz Davenport has led Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust since October 2018 but is due to retire later this year, which will coincide with the trusts two year anniversary of being in special measures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She earned around 215,000 according to the Trusts latest annual reports and the Trust has begun the process of finding a replacement. The trust was downgraded over issues with waiting lists, emergency care and finances. Last year the CQC ordered improvements to keep patients safe. In particular, its inspection found an overcrowded A&E unable to see children in crisis or patients with strokes within target times, as well as a 100-year-old outpatient department no longer fit for purpose. Earlier this year the regulator also demanded improvements to maternity care to its inadequate monitoring of unborn babies, incomplete records and unsafe staffing levels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesman for Torbay and South Devon said: Devons NHS is in national framework 4 and we are working as one system to deliver a plan that will deliver performance and financial stability. During the past year our performance has significantly improved, particularly for cancer and planned care. We have invested millions of pounds into our services to ensure people in Torbay and South Devon are seen and treated quicker. University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust The trust has been run by Richard Mitchell since October 2021, with the chief executive earning 195,000 a year. An inspection in June by the CQC found its services, including in A&E and maternity, required improvement, which were the same as after an inspection two years earlier, despite the regulator noting some improvements, for example safety in maternity care went from inadequate to requires improvement. Last month the Trust declared a critical incident because of delays in treating patients in its emergency departments as it urged only those with life-threatening injuries to attend. Its record on cancer care is also poor, with the latest data revealing that 43 per cent of patients had to wait more than 62 days to start cancer treatment after an urgent referral. The key target is for 85 per cent to begin treatment within two months. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board Maggie MacIsaac was appointed chief executive of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board (ICB) in November 2021 and received 245,000 last year. The board is one of 42 local NHS bodies around England in this case overseeing the operations of five hospital trusts and one ambulance trust in its area, all of which are in special measures. A spokesman for the ICB, also speaking on behalf of those on its patch, said: All NHS organisations in Hampshire and Isle of Wight requested to collectively enter the national Recovery Support Programme in 2023 which meant each was placed in segment 4 of the current NHS oversight framework. We took this decision due to the collective financial challenge we faced and recognised this could only be addressed by each organisation working together as a system. University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust Among those hospital trusts receiving intensive support in Hampshire is University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, led by David French since 2020, on a salary of 265,000. The hospital trust is among the most challenged in England because of its financial deficits, forecasting a 66 million end-of-year overspend. It has also been embroiled in controversy this week over a row with porters who are planning to strike in protest at being told they cannot take toilet breaks a claim the Trust has refuted. Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust Another Hampshire hospital in the NHSs lowest rung of tier four because of financial pressures and patient care is Portsmouth Hospitals, which has been run by Penny Emerit since March 2021. She earns 245,000 per year. The hospital trust ranks in the bottom five out of 118 trusts for A&E performance against the four-hour wait target. Some 43 per cent had to wait more than four hours to be seen in October. The target is to be less than five per cent. Hampshire Hospitals Foundation NHS Trust Alex Whitfield took the helm at Hampshire Hospitals in 2017 making her one of the longest serving chief executives in the NHS. She was paid around 205,000 last year. The hospitals financial challenges were set to be alleviated somewhat as part of the Conservatives 40 new hospitals programme, however that is currently being reviewed by the new Government. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust Ron Shields is the chief executive of this newly created NHS Trust which was born out of a merger between Southern Health, which he led from 2020, and Solent Trust. He was paid 200,000 per year in his previous role. Southern Health struggled to shake the damage to its reputation as a mental health trust following the deaths of multiple patients between 2011 and 2015. An independent report published in 2021, led by Nigel Pascoe QC, found there were still significant unresolved issues six years after its leadership was heavily criticised in relation to major care failings. Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin ICB Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin ICB has been in the NHS most challenged tier since its inception in 2022, with chief executive Simon Whitehouse in charge for the duration. It has a track record of large financial deficits in relation to its size, including an expected overspend of more than 70 million for 2023-24. It had planned for a deficit of 57 million, but was forced to increase this to 130 million earlier this year. The overspend is equivalent to about 14 per cent of its total funding, making it one of the largest deficits in the country by proportion. The chief executive, who earns 190,000 per year, has also faced a number of official grievances and resignations from directors in recent months. Six senior members of staff have left the ICB in the last year, including the chief nursing officer, chief medical officer, chief operating officer, deputy finance director, director of urgent and emergency care and head of digital. An NHS spokesman said: We have a robust recovery support programme in place for the most challenged trusts, including tailored improvement plans, dedicated advisers to provide support, and regular formal review meetings with more work being done to attract talented leadership teams to struggling trusts. Improvement takes time and long-term structural issues often affect the ability to turn around services. But where regulatory action is required, we enforce management changes in line with our statutory powers and responsibility to patients. East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust, Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, and Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin ICB were all approached for comment. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A North Texas father is suing First Baptist Dallas for negligence over allegations that his teenage son was sexually abused by an older boy on a summer mission trip in July 2022, court documents state. The lawsuit was filed in Dallas County on Nov. 11. The plaintiff is bringing suit on behalf of his son and is asking for more than $1 million in damages. Ryland Whitehorn, the churchs executive pastor of ministries, and Alan Lynch, the minister of pastoral care and counseling, are also named as defendants in the lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement First Baptist Dallas officials said they reported the alleged incident to law enforcement authorities, who determined the sexual activity was consensual, according to a statement obtained by Star-Telegram media partner WFAA-TV. First Baptist Church of Dallas categorically denies any allegations of impropriety, the statement reads. The teen, who was a member of First Baptists student worship choir, was invited to attend a mission trip to San Diego, California, the year he finished eighth grade. His parents met with the leader in charge of the trip before giving their permission. They were assured that First Baptist would ensure that the students would be supervised and protected, the lawsuit states. More top stories from our newsroom: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fatal wrong-way crashes double in Fort Worth Restaurants win honors in first Michelin Star awards for Texas Mom battling cancer shares memories of teen son killed in shooting [Get our breaking news alerts.] Prior to the mission trip, the teens parents allowed him to attend a camp in New Mexico sponsored by First Baptist Dallas. During the camp, another First Baptist student allegedly held a knife to the teens throat and threatened him, according to the lawsuit. Police officers in New Mexico informed the teens parents and asked if they wanted to press criminal charges. Later, two church employees called the parents to discourage them from pressing charges and assure them that the church was taking the situation seriously, the suit states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neither of the church employees apologized for the incident during the call, according to the lawsuit. As a result of the incident in New Mexico, the teens parents were reluctant to let him go to San Diego with the group. They had multiple conversations with the leaders regarding safety protocols for the mission trip, the lawsuit states. They parents said they were told the participants would be a more solid set of teens, and the students would be more closely supervised than they were at the New Mexico camp. The leaders assured Plaintiff ... that First Baptist took the safety and supervision of the students on trips sponsored by First Baptist very seriously, the suit states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once again, based on the repeated assurances of First Baptist, and its agents the teens parents allowed him to go on the mission trip to San Diego, according to the lawsuit. The group stayed in a hotel while in San Diego. The last night of the trip, one of the leaders informed them that there was no curfew, according to the suit. The only restrictions were that they remain on hotel property and not go in rooms occupied by the opposite sex. A 10th-grader invited the teen to the hotel room he shared with three other boys in the same grade. One of the leaders was in the room talking to the 10th-graders when the teen and other eighth-grade boys arrived, according to the lawsuit. He got ready to leave about 30 minutes later and told the teen he should leave as well and go back to his own room, the suit states. The 10th-graders told the leader that they wanted the younger teen to stay. He gave the boy permission and left, according to the lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This was the last time (the teen) had any adult supervision that night, the lawsuit states. One of the boys in the room got on Netflix and played an R-rated movie at some point during the night. Soon after it ended, the 10th-grader who invited the teen to the room sexually abused him, the lawsuit alleges. Another 10th-grader witnessed the abuse, according to the suit. The next day he told the teen and the other eighth-grade boys that, No one needs to know what happened yesterday, the suit states. The teen didnt report the abuse because he did not want to get into trouble or to be shamed or threatened by the older boys, according to the lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About two months after the San Diego trip, the teen and his parents were called to an urgent meeting at the church with Lynch and Whitehorn. Lynch, the minister of pastoral care and counseling at First Baptist Dallas, began asking the teen questions about the incident in San Diego, the parents said. He tried to intimidate, frighten, and confuse the teen, according to the lawsuit. The teen told Lynch about the full extent of the abuse by (the older boy), the lawsuit states, and Lynch told the family he would report the abuse to law enforcement authorities. The parents understood that the 10th-grader who allegedly abused their son wouldnt be allowed on church property. Lynch later called them to say that all we have right now are allegations, and no force was used by the older boy, the suit states. Youth leaders who already knew about the reported abuse would try to keep the two boys away from each other during activities, the parents said they were told. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No other leaders would be told about the alleged abuse, Lynch said, according to the suit. He then argued with the teens parents whenever they spoke and attempted to intimidate and bully them into silence, the suit says. The lawsuit also alleges that the same older boy abused another minor on a prior First Baptist Dallas mission trip. The victims mother said she told First Baptist about the abuse, but a church employee convinced her not to report it to higher church authorities. First Baptist knew that ... an older youth with a history of sexually abusing younger boys, would be on the San Diego Mission Trip when First Baptist was assuring Plaintiff ... that (his son) would be safe on the trip, the suit states. When the plaintiff asked for a copy of First Baptists sex abuse policy, he was told that the church didnt have a policy to report the sex abuse of minors, the lawsuit alleges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to suing First Baptist for negligence, the teens father is suing the church and Lynch on allegations of intentional infliction of emotional distress and the church, Lynch and Whitehorn for civil conspiracy. After learning that the 10th-grader sexually abused the teen, First Baptist, Whitehorn and Lynch formed a civil conspiracy to silence (the teen) and cover up the abuse, the lawsuit states. Loved ones are still seeking answers to their many questions about the tragedy, which killed seven people in August ABC Susahnnah Gurdon, a friend of the Lynch family Susahnnah Gurdon, a friend of the Lynch family Loved ones of the seven people who died when the Bayesian superyacht sank off the coast of Italy in August still have questions about what caused the deadly incident "Was there a problem with the design of the ship? People have speculated, I dont know the answer to that," victim Christopher Morvillo's brother told Impact X Nightline Three months after the tragedy, authorities have still not determined key elements in the case Friends and family of the victims who died when the superyacht Bayesian sank off the coast of Italy are remembering their loved ones and still seeking answers three months after the tragedy shocked the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seven people died on the morning of Aug. 19 after the superyacht encountered severe weather near the fishing port of Porticello and capsized. The 12 passengers aboard the Bayesian before it sank were celebrating two momentous occasions, according to Impact X Nightlines Gone In 16 Minutes: Sinking of The Superyacht, which premiered Thursday, Nov. 14, exclusively on Hulu: Mikes recent acquittal of fraud charges, and Hannahs plans to attend Oxford University in the fall. But soon, the celebration turned to tragedy when a downburst, not a tornado, impacted the small fishing community where Bayesian was anchored. Fifteen people of the 22 people onboard were able to escape, while the seven others perished. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. The victims were identified as yacht chef Recaldo Thomas; British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch and his daughter, Hannah Lynch; Christopher Morvillo and his wife, Neda; and Morgan Stanley International chairman Jonathan Bloomer and his wife, Judy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why do people die young, like Hannah? Why does somebody get cut off in the prime of life, like Mike? Those [are] sort of big why questions [and] life questions, said Susannah Gurdon, a friend of the Lynch family. And then there are sort of the nitty-gritty. Why did the boat go down? Why were they trapped? ALESSANDRO FUCARINI/AFP via Getty Divers of the Vigili del Fuoco, the Italian Corps. of Firefighters enter Porticello harbor near Palermo, with the body of Hannah Lynch, the last missing person at the back of the boat Divers of the Vigili del Fuoco, the Italian Corps. of Firefighters enter Porticello harbor near Palermo, with the body of Hannah Lynch, the last missing person at the back of the boat Born into a family of Irish immigrants, Mike worked mopping floors before attending Cambridge University as a young man, according to Impact X Nightline. Reid Weingarten, one of Mikes defense attorneys, described the British tech mogul as an extraordinarily smart man known to many as the the grandfather of AI, having launched the company Autonomy in 1996. You could meet him and you could think you were meeting somebody who was a perfectly ordinary individual, said Patrick Jacob, a friend of the Lynch family. When you actually, though, talk to him and you begin to realize he was very, very far from being ordinary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: What Happened When the Bayesian Sank? New Details Emerge About How the Unsinkable Yacht Capsized Mike was admittedly looking forward to starting a new life after his acquittal in June, two months before the Bayesian tragedy that also killed his daughter Hannah. Danny Fortson who interviewed Lynch after his acquittal for The Sunday Times previously told PEOPLE Mike was "obviously incredibly grateful and happy" after his sudden change in fortune, but was still "struggling to accept" his new reality. Given his age and some health issues, he was very clear that he would probably die in prison in America," the journalist explained. Simon Dawson/Bloomberg via Getty Mike Lynch, former chief executive officer of Autonomy Corp., a unit of Hewlett-Packard Co., and founder of Invoke Capital Partners, poses for a photograph in London, U.K., on Tuesday, July 8, 2014. Mike Lynch, former chief executive officer of Autonomy Corp., a unit of Hewlett-Packard Co., and founder of Invoke Capital Partners, poses for a photograph in London, U.K., on Tuesday, July 8, 2014. Related: Below Deck Captain Doesn't Believe Conspiracies About How Bayesian Sank, Offers His Insight into Tragedy Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hannah was a young poet and lover of literature, according to Impact X Nightline. Her friend Marko Kresojevic said she was happy to be the best at something but always wanted other people to be the best in their own way. There are so many hyper-intelligent and successful people who get where they are because they push other people down, but that wasnt Hannah at all, Kresojevic explained. Kresojevic hopes to keep Hannahs memory alive by living the way she lived, which was to the absolute fullest. He believed Hannah lived three times the lifetimes that most people were living. She planned to live life without worrying about where she would end up, only that she did all the things she ever wanted to, and that she lived unabashedly and in a self-sacrificing manner, Kresojevic told Impact X Nightline. ABC Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also on the superyacht were Chris, one of Mikes attorneys, and his wife Neda. The two met in law school and bonded over their love of traveling and wine, according to Chris brother Greg Morvillo. When we would get together, they would be sitting together, Greg told Impact X Nightline. His arm would be around her. They would hold hands. Chris had to convince Neda to join him for the trip on the Bayesian, Greg said. Neda liked to travel, but Neda also liked to be at home, Chris brother explained, and she didnt want to be away from her family. Related: Brother of Sicily Yacht Sinking Victim Still Thinks About the Passengers' Final Moments: Its Terrifying (Exclusive) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After learning of his brother and sister-in-laws tragic deaths, Greg is following through with an old promise he made to his now-late brother: protect his children. Theyre old enough that they dont need a guardian, but Ill be damned if Im not going to be there for whatever they need, Greg explained. So thats where my focus is. Ed OCallaghan, a former Justice Department official and close friend of the attorney, previously told PEOPLE that Morvillo, 59, hoped to spend time with his wife, 57, and two adult daughters, Sabrina and Sophia Morvillo. He missed a lot, OCallaghan says. He was just buried in putting together the defense for Lynch. And I think he really thought the near future was going to be a lot of wonderful payback time with the family. Patrick McMullan/Patrick McMullan via Getty Neda Morvillo and Chris Morvillo attend Summer Birthday Cocktails For Lawrence Kaplan at Tower 270 - Rooftop on June 21, 2018 in New York City. Neda Morvillo and Chris Morvillo attend Summer Birthday Cocktails For Lawrence Kaplan at Tower 270 - Rooftop on June 21, 2018 in New York City. Related: Yacht Sank in Sicily Due to Endless Chain of Errors,' Ship Maker's Owner Speculates: Everything Was Predictable Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities have still not determined key elements in the case, including if the keel (an underwater blade designed to help keep boats upright and prevent them from swaying back and forth) was in the proper position and whether doors or hatches were open that could have allowed water to rush in. "Why did they get off the ship and six people were left behind? I dont know the answer to that. Was there a problem with the design of the ship? People have speculated, I dont know the answer to that," Chris' brother told Impact X Nightline. Family members are asking for the communitys help searching for a Maui woman who missed her connecting LAX flight and hasnt been seen or heard from since Nov. 10. The last message that Hannah Kobayashi, 31, sent to her family was alarming, they say. She mentioned feeling scared, and that someone might be trying to steal her money and identity, her aunt said. Kobayashi is described as 5 feet, 10 inches tall, weighing about 140 pounds and has brown hair and eyes, and fair skin with freckles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kobayashis family said she was traveling from Maui to New York City to visit family, but when she missed her connecting flight in Los Angeles at 11 p.m. on Nov. 8, she decided to go to The Grove for a Lebron James event. When she returned to LAX days later, her aunt, Larie Pidgeon, said that was when she started sending concerning text messages. Strange, cryptic messages things about the matrix, it was so unlike her, Pidgeon told KTLAs Angeli Kakade. And then all of a sudden, no more communication. Family members are asking for the communitys help searching for Hannah Kobayashi, 31, of Maui, who missed her connecting LAX flight and hasnt been seen or heard from since Nov. 10. (Larie Pidgeon) Family members are asking for the communitys help searching for Hannah Kobayashi, 31, of Maui, who missed her connecting LAX flight and hasnt been seen or heard from since Nov. 10. (Larie Pidgeon) Family members are asking for the communitys help searching for Hannah Kobayashi, 31, of Maui, who missed her connecting LAX flight and hasnt been seen or heard from since Nov. 10. (Larie Pidgeon) Family members are asking for the communitys help searching for Hannah Kobayashi, 31, of Maui, who missed her connecting LAX flight and hasnt been seen or heard from since Nov. 10. (Larie Pidgeon) Pidgeon and other family members have traveled to Los Angeles to post flyers and search for the missing woman, and have started a GoFundMe to ask for help affording hotels and search efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kobayashis family asks that anyone with information on her whereabouts call Pidgeon at 845-750-3006. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Nov. 16The Fayette County Democratic Executive Committee (FCDEC) will meet on Dec. 13 at 6 p.m. at the Fayette Democratic Party Headquarters, 114 Main St W, Oak Hill, WV, to fill three vacancies, according to county party chair Pam Garrison. The FCDEC will hold nominations and elections for vice chair, as well as male party representatives from the New Haven and Valley districts. The vice chair must be a Democrat registered in West Virginia who lives in Fayette County. Duties are as described in the WVDP Bylaws. One does not need to be a member of the county executive committee to run for the vice chair position. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both the New Haven and Valley district representatives must be males and registered Democrats who live in the two respective districts of the county. District level representatives will be voting members of the FCDEC and represent their district. These elections are for an unexpired term that will end on July 1, 2026, or earlier if their successors are elected or seated before then. Officers do not need to be a member of the county executive committee. Nominations will be made at the meeting by county executive committee members. The person making the nomination will state the name of the person they nominate. Members can self-nominate for the vice chair office. Nominations do not need to be seconded. When nominations are closed, the person making the nomination will have 1 minute to speak in favor of their nomination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All candidates will have 2 minutes to speak. Voting will be held by roll call vote for any contested election. A majority of those present and voting must be achieved to fill all positions. This meeting is open to the public, Garrison pointed out in a press release. The Atlanta Federal Bureau of Investigation Office is asking for help in a child exploitation investigation. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Agents have identified the man as John Doe 49. Officials say he may have critical information about the identity of a child victim in an ongoing sexual exploitation investigation. The pictures shown are believed to have been produced on or before July 2024. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement John Doe 49 is between 45 and 65 years old, bald, and with a dark goatee. The FBI said he has at least five tattoos: the word Dabby on the right side of his chest, the number 197 on his left bicep, and more tattoos on his left and right forearms and right bicep. Anyone with information is urged to call 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or online. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Manipur police officials have arrested 23 individuals who were part of the mob involved in the alleged "ransacking and arson of the houses," said Manipur Police on Saturday. These individuals were arrested from Imphal East, Imphal West, and Bishnupur districts of the state. Additionally, the police officials have recovered one .32 pistol, seven rounds of SBBL, and eight mobile phones from their possession. Amid the escalation in the state, a total curfew has been imposed in Imphal until further orders. Following this, the government immediately suspended Internet and mobile data services for two days. According to police officials, 8 persons have been injured in the process of dispersal of the mob that targeted various houses and properties of public representatives in Imphal. Following this incident, heavy security forces including the Army and Assam Rifles were deployed in Imphal, said police. In a social media post on X, Manipur Police wrote, "On 16.11.2024, irate mobs have targeted various houses and properties of public representatives including Ministers and MLAs of the State in Imphal. Police have resorted to firing tear gas shells etc. to disperse the mob. Security forces including Army and Assam Rifles have been deployed in Imphal to strengthen the security in the town area. Flag marches have been conducted. 08 (eight) persons have been injured in the process of mob dispersal." "Further, 23 persons who were part of the mob indulging in ransacking and arson of the houses above have been arrested from Imphal East, Imphal West and Bishnupur Districts and recovered 01 (one) .32 pistol, 07 rounds of SBBL, 08 nos. of mobile phones from their possession, the tweet added. Manipur Police posted on X, "Total curfew has been immediately clamped in the town until further orders. Internet and mobile data services have been suspended for 02 (two) days immediately. SsP/ COs have been deployed on ground to manage the law-and-order situation. Senior officers are critically monitoring the situation round the clock." On Saturday, Manipur Police said, "Search operations and area domination were conducted by security forces in the fringe and vulnerable areas of hill and valley districts. Movement of 456 vehicles carrying essential items along NH-2 has been ensured. Strict security measures are taken up in all vulnerable locations and security convoy is provided in sensitive stretches in order to ensure free and safe movement of the vehicles. A total of 107 Nakas/Checkpoints were installed in different Districts of Manipur, both in the hill and the valley and no one was detained by Police in connection with violations in different districts of the State." (ANI) A new FBI alert says text messages invoking slavery have expanded to two more groups this weekend. Now, agents said people have reported receiving texts and e-mails that say they were selected for deportation or to report to a re-education camps. Atlantans embedded in their communities reacted Saturday night. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] We have never thought that we would see this day, you know, from where we come from, and were here, said Dwight Eubanks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is using this intel and his social influence to unite others. Its to divide and confuse, said Eubanks. We have to separate ourselves and educate ourselves and share knowledge with people who dont look like us or believe in the things that we believe in. Texts invoking slavery raised alarms across the country after the presidential election. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Channel 2 Action News spoke to African American and Black men, women, and students as young as 13 who received them. Now, Metro-Atlanta organizations like the Latin American Association are sharing the latest alert with members to try to stay ahead of any violence. This new generation, we are not going to dela with it. So, it is going to be interesting how we get out of this and where do we go from here, said Eubanks. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Columbia County, in partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), will host a hybrid public meeting to discuss proposed interchange improvements to the I-75 at U.S. 441/U.S. 41 intersection, including access management improvements at SW Howell Street. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] The hybrid public meeting for the I-75 at U.S. 441/U.S. 41 interchange improvements project will be held Monday, Nov. 18 at the Mason City Community Center. The project proposes operational improvements to the I-75 at U.S. 441/U.S. 41 interchange (commonly referred to as the Ellisville interchange) by signalizing the ramp intersections, adding turn lanes, extending existing storage lanes, and accommodating U-turn movements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement South of the Ellisville interchange, the project proposes enhanced safety by converting the existing full median opening at SW Howell Street and U.S. 441/U.S. 41 to a directional median opening and providing a new signalized intersection 1,500 feet south of SW Howell Street. The movements removed from the SW Howell Street and U.S. 441/U.S. 41 intersection will be accommodated through a new roadway called Ellisville Access Road. All participants, regardless of the platform they choose, will receive the same information on the proposed project and all comments received in-person, virtually, or electronically will be given equal consideration. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit on Friday affirmed a district courts decision earlier this year that Caldwell Countys closed bail hearing policy is unconstitutional. Caldwell Countys policy to bar the press and public from bail hearings was challenged in a lawsuit in 2023 by two nonprofit news organizations, the Texas Tribune and the Caldwell/Hays Examiner, and advocacy organization Mano Amiga. The plaintiffs claimed the county violated their First Amendment right of access to judicial proceedings and Plaintiffs Fourteenth Amendment right to procedural due process. This is a really gratifying result with enormous implications for bail hearings across Texas and beyond, said Scott Wilkens, senior counsel at the Knight First Amendment Institute, who argued the case for the plaintiffs. Public access to court proceedings is fundamental to our democracy because it ensures that theyre conducted fairly and fosters respect for the judicial system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The countys five magistrates adopted the bail hearing policy and did not provide the public with any notice or opportunity to object prior to the closed proceedings, which the countys attorney said created a situation of unnecessary delay. The lawsuit was prompted by repeated attempts by the plaintiffs to access the hearings in 2022. The Examiner visited the county jail multiple times asking for access. Mano Amiga even wrote to the county officials asking to have the hearings opened. According to court documents, the county judge repeatedly denied their access to the hearings saying that the public was banned. U.S. District Judge Robert Pitman ruled in favor of the plaintiffs in February, and in a preliminary injunction ordered Caldwell County to open bail hearings by March 4. Bail hearings occur no later than 48 hours after a person is arrested. In the hearing, the accused is informed by a magistrate judge of the charges against them and their rights. The judge also sets bail for the accused during the hearing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For criminal defendants, this can be the only time they appear before a judge before they enter a plea unless they plead guilty. Since most convictions happen before a trial, what happens in these proceedings is very important. According to the State Bar of Texas, approximately 98% of all criminal cases are resolved with some form of plea bargain. Without being able to see these hearings, the public and the press are not able to know if magistrates are fulfilling their duties or if they are treating arrestees fairly. Access to bail hearings ensures people who are arrested are treated fairly and their ability to pay is taken into account in setting bail, said Eric Martinez, executive director of Mano Amiga, in a press release. Even a few days in jail can lead to loss of jobs, vehicles, and housing consequences that devastate families and communities of the accused and underscore the importance of their right to attend bail hearings." Mano Amiga, which advocates for people who have been arrested and victims of crime, said it was prevented from supporting those who were having bail hearings. It is general practice in Texas that these hearings are closed. In the lawsuit, the county stated that there is no constitutional right for the press and public to participate in such informal proceedings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The plaintiffs argued that closed hearings stop them from their ability to keep the public informed regarding a crucial part of the criminal justice system in Caldwell County. The Texas Tribune believes firmly in the publics right to know whats going on inside courtrooms, halls of government and other areas where the power of the state is exercised, said Matthew Watkins, the Texas Tribunes editor-in-chief. Were thrilled with the result of this case, and are proud to have been a part of it. The ruling found that both news organizations were unable to report on bail trends and were barred from ensuring fairness and accuracy of the magistrate judges conduct. This decision is a victory for transparency, accountability, and freedom of the press, said Sam Benavides, managing editor of the Caldwell/Hays Examiner, in a press release. Independent publications like ours are committed to digging deep into issues of injustice in our communities, and todays decision will enable us to continue to diligently and responsibly cover legal proceedings. Caldwell Countys bail hearings can now be accessed via video stream. Officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment. It is unclear whether the county will ask the U.S. Supreme Court to review the case. Sen.-elect Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) said there is mounting concern among female officers at the Department of Defense following the nomination of Fox News host Pete Hegseth to lead the Pentagon. I don't think it's an understatement to say there is real stress on the horse right now, but there is a lot of power, she told Martha Raddatz on ABCs This Week on Sunday. The secretary of Defense is designed to be a very important job. So who we put in there is extremely, extremely critical to our security and who we are as a nation. Hegseth has faced backlash since President-elect Donald Trump announced him as the pick, particularly in response to his comments on diversity in the military. On a podcast earlier this month, he said that the military should not have women in combat roles, calling men more capable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Slotkin, a former CIA and Department of Defense official, said that she visited the Pentagon on Thursday and saw constant chatter and conversation and concern from senior women officers. But also I've heard from folks who I've recommended to service academies, young women just starting out their career saying, 'Am I going to be able to accomplish what I want to accomplish here?' Part of Hegseths claim is that having only men serve in combat would be a return to the way it was, arguing that the military should acknowledge its base is "strong, normal men. "His idea of normal may be different, Slotkin said. We want a diverse force. The military is one of the most diverse institutions in the world. So the officer corps should reflect that diversity. According to a Pentagon report, women made up 17.3 percent of the active-duty military in 2021. That figure includes Army Gen. Laura J. Richardson, commander of the U.S. Southern Command, and Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations and a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to women, Hegseth has taken shots at anyone involved in any of the DEI/woke shit, most recently on Shawn Ryans podcast. When asked if she believed that Trump and Hegseth would attempt to fire top generals who they consider woke or those close to former chairman Mark Milley who has criticized Trump Slotkin said she doesnt think there is much room to interpret otherwise. "I think they have been very clear that they're putting together some sort of panel that's going to look at generals, people who have served their nation their entire lives, over multiple administrations, Democrat and Republican in combat, she told Raddatz. They are now openly talking about dismissing them like some sort of kangaroo court. You can imagine the stress in the Pentagon about that. She continued: Our military and the role of the military is in the Constitution for a reason, and I think we're really at risk of politicizing the military in a way that we can't put the genie back in the bottle." Despite her reservations, Slotkin emphasized that she would meet with every nominee, including Hegseth, before voting on their confirmation. I'm a Senator-elect and advice and consent from the Senate is part of our constitutional process, she said. So I'm going to try and meet with everybody, hear them out, but I also am a former CIA officer and Defense Department official. I know just how important these jobs are not just for who gets what in Washington, but for the actual security of people in the United States. Local authorities said the flightless birds do not pose a risk to the community Getty Emus (stock image). Emus (stock image). A pair of emus are on the run! According to an official statement from the Horry County Police Department in South Carolina posted on Facebook on Nov. 13, two emus escaped from their owner's property and are "on the loose" in the Green Sea area. "We are not emu-sed," the officials quipped. "The department is aware of the reported emus, and we have made contact with the owner. We are working to aid the owner in the effort to locate and capture the animals," the statement continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The local police department said the birds do not pose a risk to the community. The emus' owner, Sam Morace, addressed the recent emu sightings in a Nov. 12 Facebook post on a local group page, confirming there are two emus and noting that they "got loose 3 months ago." Related: Orangutan Escaped Toronto Zoo Enclosure After Performing Acrobatic Move "They are feral and not trained like the ones we have at the house," she added. "Local law enforcement has already been at my house, [and] we are trying to get a tranquilizer approved so we can bring them home." Getty Emus (stock image) Emus (stock image) The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now! In an interview with CBS News, Morace said the emus are named Thelma and Louise inspired by the 1991 movie of the same name, starring Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis as two friends on the run from the law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detailing the emus' escape, she said, "They decided they wanted to hop the fence when we were trying to grab one of them to move her to another paddock and, well, she didn't like that." Related: Zoo Celebrates Releasing Thousands of 'Giant Spiders' that Grow to Be the Size of a Human Hand Morace added: "So she [is] living the wild life, well both of them are." According to the Smithsonian's National Zoo, emus are flightless birds with small wings. They vary in color but tend to be dark at the end of their molting season. The animals are native to Australia and grow to be 5 feet 7 inches tall and weigh more than 100 lbs. on average. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Emus have a life expectancy of five to 10 years, but can live longer in captivity. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. This isn't the first newsworthy animal escape in South Carolina this month. On Nov. 6, local authorities confirmed in an official Facebook statement that 40 primates had broken free from the Alpha Genesis research facility in Beaufort County. "Traps have been set up around the area, and the Yemassee Police Department is currently on-site utilizing thermal imaging cameras in an attempt to locate the animals," police said at the time. Residents in the area were strongly advised to keep doors and windows secured to prevent these animals from entering homes, per the statement. Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) has admitted that Elon Musk helped move the needle in getting Donald Trump elected, adding that the president-elect will be able to run the table with Republicans winning the House and the Senate. In an interview with Jake Tapper on CNNs State of the Union, Fetterman said he had previously warned Democrats about the prospect of Republicans taking charge of national policy-making through smart politics. Trump is the strongest that hes been in the three cycles, he said Sunday, crediting his victory to several things that were really unique that happened in the election cycle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among them, he said was the assassination attempt that was in Butler, 45 minutes from where were sitting right now, and then Musk. Musk is not just a typical kind of a surrogate. Were all in that business. We have surrogates. We have endorsements, and many of them often dont really matter much, Fetterman said. But now Musk made himself really active. He was described as moving to Pennsylvania, and I do believe that helped move the needle in that too. So Trump came in in the strongest position, and he carried Pennsylvania and carried all of the swing states. Fetterman claimed that the Democrat Party was still the part of the working class, but he said that representatives and senators had to tread carefully in how they reacted to news about Trumps picks for the cabinet. .@SenFettermanPA: Dems cant freak out over "every tweet or every appointment" after Trump's victory. "It's still not even Thanksgiving yet... it's going to be four years." pic.twitter.com/pRUh6SCkCb State of the Union (@CNNSOTU) November 17, 2024 Trump gets the kind of thing the kind of things that he wanted, like the freak-out, Fetterman warned. Its not even Thanksgiving yet. And if were having meltdowns, you know, every tweet or every appointment and all those things, I mean, its going to be four years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, Fetterman said, Democrats should be concerned about the control that Republicans have over the political agenda. I think the last time I was on your network I was warning about the jackpot, and I use that metaphor of the slot machine, the 777, he said. Hes going to get the House, have the Senate, the presidency, and the real jackpot is the Supreme Court. And thats been very clear thats a strong conservative slant. They can run the table right now and at least for the next two years. Thats what I think we should all be concerned about, not small tweets or random kinds of appointments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fetterman has repeatedly warned Democrats to chill when reacting to Donald Trumps posts on X and Truth Social, while also breaking from traditional party lines by saying he would vote for Marco Rubio to become Trumps Secretary of State. He was elected senator in 2022 when he flipped a Republican-held seat in the key state. This hypersonic missile is designed to carry various payloads for ranges greater than 1500km for all the Services of the Indian Armed Forces. The missile was tracked by various range systems, deployed in multiple domains. The flight data obtained from down-range ship stations confirmed the successful terminal manoeuvres and impact with a high degree of accuracy. This missile has been indigenously developed by the laboratories of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex, Hyderabad along with various other DRDO laboratories and Industry Partners. The flight trial was carried out in the presence of senior scientists of DRDO and the Armed Forces. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Armed Forces and the Industry for the successful flight trial of the country's first long-range hypersonic mission, and termed it a historic achievement. In a post on X, the Defence Minister described the event as a historic moment, emphasizing that this major achievement has placed India among a handful of nations with the capability to develop such advanced and critical military technologies. "India has achieved a major milestone by successfully conducting a flight trial of a long-range hypersonic missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, off-the-coast of Odisha. This is a historic moment and this significant achievement has put our country in the group of select nations having capabilities of such critical and advanced military technologies. I congratulate Team DRDO India, our Armed Forces and the Industry for stupendous achievement," Rajnath Singh posted on X. Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO also congratulated team DRDO for their active contribution to this successful mission. (ANI) Elina Valtonen, Finnish Foreign Minister, has called on European leaders to refrain from any more phone calls to Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin. Source: The Finnish official said this on the air of ARD, as reported by European Pravda Details: Valtonen urged the European allies to keep their distance from the Kremlin. Quote: "The most important thing is that we understand that we should not once again vie for the Kremlins attention. This will not help if the heads of European states make coordinated or uncoordinated phone calls with Putin," she said in an interview with ARD Europe magazine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the minister, a concerted reaction is required, not just with the US but, most importantly, with Ukraine. Valtonen also stated that the conference of Foreign Ministers on Monday will consider fresh measures against the Russian Federation, namely limits on its "shadow fleet." According to the minister, this will address not only Russia bypassing existing restrictions, but also the damage it causes to the environment. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said that Russia's latest attack against Ukraine proved the ineffectiveness of telephone diplomacy. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stressed that Russia's latest large-scale missile attack on Ukraine is war criminal Vladimir Putin's response to those who have called or visited him recently. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the afternoon of 15 November, it was reported that Scholz had spoken to Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin for the first time in two years. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy labelled the call a "Pandora's box". Support UP or become our patron! A fire broke out in a Worcester residential area Saturday night. Crews responded to calls of a house fire at 34 Franiconia Street of reports of a house fire. Crews were able to control the fire, but the status of residents is unknown at this time. Boston 25 has reached out to the Worcester Fire department for more information but has yet to hear back. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW WALTON COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) Walton County Fire Rescue responded to a structure fire in the Villa Tasso community on Saturday. According to officials, the fire happened just before 7 p.m. Firefighters were dispatched to a home on County Line Road following a 911 call reporting a fire in the backyard spreading toward the home. Upon arrival, crews said they found a shed fully engulfed in flames, extending to the single-story home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lynn Haven started Christmas celebrations early with Winter Wonderland Festival Firefighters quickly contained the blaze, preventing further damage. No injuries were reported. The State Fire Marshals Office is investigating the cause of the fire and the American Red Cross is providing assistance to the homeowner. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (WBOY) On Saturday, the first class of students officially graduated from the West Virginia Junior College (WVJC) School of Nursing at Mon Health. The 18-month, hybrid associates degree program was first announced in 2022 as a collaboration between the college and hospital to provide more options for prospective nursing students in north central West Virginia. Now, in November 2024, about 40 students became the first graduating class of the program. Samantha Esposito, Campus President of WVJC, said in an interview with 12 News that they saw a need for a hybrid nursing program during the COVID-19 pandemic, which would allow students from around the state to pursue their degree who otherwise may have been unable to. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After we launched that program we saw there was a great need and a great desire for students to be able to have that hybrid option, where theyre doing lecture classes online and going to hospital facilities to do their lab and clinical, Esposito said. Clarksburg raises fire fees to help afford new fire engine Its never too early or its never too late. We have a wide variety and wide range of students, and that if youre thinking about it to reach out, because theres always a possibility for people to follow their dreams and were there to help them along the way. If you want to learn more about the WVJC School of Nursing at Mon Health, you can visit the WVJC website here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com. The first case in the U.S. of a more severe mpox variant has been confirmed in a person who had recently traveled to East Africa and was treated in San Mateo County, the California Department of Public Health announced Saturday. The person diagnosed with the Clade I variant is isolating at home and recovering, while people who had close contact with the person are being notified by public health officials. There is no evidence that the strain is spreading in California or the U.S, the California Department of Public Health said. The risk of contracting Clade I mpox in the U.S. remains low, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A less severe variant known as Clade II continues to circulate in the U.S., including in Los Angeles and San Francisco two of the epicenters of the last outbreak in 2022. In Africa, a Clade I outbreak has been centered in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which had 6,169 confirmed cases and 25 deaths as of Oct. 6, according to the World Health Organization. Two years ago, cases of Clade II mpox were rapidly increasing in cities across the globe, particularly in the U.S. While that strain of mpox was rarely deadly, officials declared a worldwide public health emergency in July 2022. In the months that followed, the spread of the virus steadily fell, though cases have never completely gone away. Read more: Mpox is again a global health emergency. How concerned should Californians be? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In August 2024, the appearance of the more deadly Clade I variant once again prompted a global health alert. Recent evidence, however, suggests that this Clade I outbreak may be causing less severe illness than previous ones, especially when patients get quality medical care, the CDC said. In the past, the strain resulted in death rates of 3% to 11%, but the death rate for this outbreak appears to be closer to 1% with good medical care. Mpox belongs to the same family of viruses as smallpox but causes milder symptoms such as fever, chills and body aches. The symptoms for both types of mpox are similar, with more severe cases causing a rash on the hands, feet, chest, face, mouth or genitals. Both strains are transmitted by skin-to-skin or sexual contact. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CDC recommends that at-risk people, such as men who have sex with men, take precautions, which include getting vaccinated, avoiding skin-to-skin contact with those who have a rash or sores that look like mpox, and washing their hands often. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health continues to recommend mpox vaccinations for some people, including men who have sex with men or transgender persons, those living with HIV and those who have had skin-to-skin or intimate contact with someone with suspected or confirmed mpox. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. US health officials reported the first case of a more aggressive mpox strain in California on Saturday. The US governments Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that the strain, called clade 1, was detected in a traveller who had visited east Africa. The patient was being treated for mild illness and was in isolation at home in San Mateo, authorities said as they assured the public that the risk to the community remained low. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People who had close contact with this individual are being contacted by public health workers, but there is no concern or evidence that mpox clade 1 is currently spreading between individuals in California or the United States, a statement from the California Department of Public Health read. There are two major strains or clades of mpox, with clade 1 separated into subclasses 1a and 1b. The WHO first declared a global health emergency over clade 1b in November after it spread through African villages and killed hundreds of people in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It first emerged in September last year in sex workers in a Rwandan mining town and has since spread to more than 3,100 people worldwide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The strain has recently been detected in Germany, India, Kenya, Sweden, Thailand and Zimbabwe. A case was recorded in London last month and three more people have since tested positive in the UK. What is monkeypox? Mpox is a viral infection that spreads through close contact. It was first identified at the Statens Serum Institut in Copenhagen in 1958, when scientists noticed outbreaks of a pox-like disease in monkeys being kept for research. The first human case was not confirmed until 1970, when a nine-year-old boy living in the DRC developed a nasty rash that reminded doctors of smallpox. The clade 1 strain is endemic to Central Africa and is the most deadly strain of the disease. Clade 2, responsible for the 2022 outbreak that spread globally, is endemic to West Africa. It is milder and less infectious and 99.9 per cent of people infected survive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clade 1b has a higher mortality rate thought to be as high as 5 per cent in adults and 10 per cent in children. Death rates are expected to be much lower in countries with stronger healthcare systems and treatment options, including the United States, the CDC said in a statement on Saturday. Protect yourself and your family by learning more about mpox and other issues of Global Health Security Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Floods have hit Bangladesh, the world's third-largest rice producer, destroying over a million metric tons of rice. Soaring food prices are pressuring the country to boost imports of the essential grain. What's happening? Severe flooding in August and October caused by heavy monsoon rainfall killed at least 75 and impacted over 18 million people. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees is providing essential aid supplies in an urgent humanitarian response. Part of the effort is transporting medical supplies to the country's health clinics to help local authorities fight the spread of waterborne diseases. Bangladesh produces around 39 million tons of grain annually to feed its population of 170 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a food ministry official, per Reuters, the significant loss of rice production has prompted the Bangladesh government to import 500,000 tons of rice. The estimate of the country's agricultural losses, which include more than 200,000 tons of vegetables, is around $380 million. Food prices in Bangladesh have soared nearly 20% since the flooding. Why is flooding in Bangladesh important? Disruptions from natural disasters to food production mean the country has to rely more on imports. The United Nations Development Programme ranked Bangladesh as the seventh extreme disaster risk-prone country in the world. According to a World Bank analysis, only India has more people exposed to river floods than Bangladesh. Nearly 3.5 million people are expected to be affected by river floods in Bangladesh annually. Fifteen percent of the global population is projected to live in flood-prone areas by 2050, amounting to roughly 1.3 billion people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement River flooding impacts 21 million people around the world every year, and that number could rise to 54 million per year by 2030. Urbanization and an overheating planet are blamed for the rising number of people put at risk. What's being done about food security in Bangladesh? "To ensure food security in the face of increasing climate challenges, it is essential to develop more flood- and drought-tolerant crop varieties, along with short-duration varieties," said chief scientific officer at the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute, Khandakar Mohammad Iftekharuddaula, per Reuters. What is the biggest reason you don't grow food at home? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind "By focusing on flood- and drought-resistant traits, we can help farmers adapt to changing weather patterns and stabilize yields even in difficult conditions." Our warming world means many farmers are struggling to grow crops that used to thrive reliably in their regions. It is paramount to lower the planet's temperature by embracing renewable energy options rather than dirty sources that release heat-trapping gases. At an individual level, signing up for community solar programs and going electric for your next vehicle purchase can help. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (WFLA) A Port St. Lucie man was arrested on multiple charges Friday after investigators said he was caught posing as an undercover FDLE agent in order to avoid a background check. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement said agents began investigating after a local real estate agency contacted them regarding 64-year-old William Dennis Milsteads application for a residential rental property. Former St. Pete council member accused of hiding cameras in air vent to watch woman shower Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Milstead had reportedly submitted a falsified letter to the rental associate claiming that he was an undercover FDLE agent working off-grid and could not undergo a background check. A copy provided by the FDLE shows that Milstead addressed the letter from the assistant captain of a fictitious unit he referred to as the FDLE Official Off Grid Unit. Due to the nature of the work he performs his personal security would be at risk if leaked or falls into the wrong hands, the letter reads. For this reason information on his background and credit files are very limited and/or sealed and doesnt reflect his true ability to receive credit or pay his debts due to his involvement in FDLE Off Grid program. Falsified-FDLE-letterDownload Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FDLEs investigation revealed that Milstead had been arrested on felony charges 13 times before, including arrests in 2002 and 2016 for impersonating a police officer. Milstead was booked into the St. Lucie County Jail on Nov. 13 and charged with falsely impersonating a police officer, making a false statement to obtain property and using a two-way communication device to commit a felony. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. Carrying out a 2023 law, Florida universities have been ending agreements and partnerships linked to seven countries of concern. The state university systems Board of Governors next week is scheduled to receive a report about the law, which targeted ties to China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela and Syria. The law, in part, largely prevented state universities and colleges from participating in agreements or partnerships with schools based in the countries of concern. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also prevented such agreements or partnerships with foreign principals, which can include such things as governments or government officials, in the countries of concern. Background information prepared for Wednesdays Board of Governors meeting said four of Floridas 12 universities reported that 140 agreements, partnerships and contracts were in place before the 2023 law took effect. The background information said the universities terminated 77 of the 140 and allowed 47 to expire. Another six will expire by the end of this year, six will expire in 2025, and four will expire between 2029 and 2035, the information said. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram attended Bodoland Mahotsav in the national capital on Saturday evening and said that the tribal communities in the country are happy with the work done by his government for them. Speaking to ANI at Bodoland Mahotsav, Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram said, "PM Modi is encouraging us to work for tribal communities...tribal community is very happy." He also claimed that the Union government had never allocated funds like this for the tribal communities before. In a post on X, Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram shared the images from the event and wrote "Attended Bodoland Mahotsav in New Delhi this evening." "The two-day Mahotsav is a grand celebration of language, literature, and culture, aimed at fostering peace and nurturing a vibrant Bodo community. It's widely celebrated to promote unity among the Indigenous people," his post further reads. Earlier, PM Modi inaugurated the first Bodoland Mohotsav, a two-day mega event on language, literature, and culture to sustain peace and build a vibrant Bodo society. Noting that the Bodo community has faced many challenges but has shown immense resilience and commitment to peace, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday that coming to the Bodoland Mahotsav is a very emotional moment for him and the affection from the Bodo community is something he greatly cherishes. PM Modi said the government is committed to ensuring progress and prosperity for the vibrant Bodo community. He said the Bodo community has also shown violence can never solve any problem. "You cannot imagine how emotional this moment is for me. Maybe, these people sitting in air-conditioned rooms in Delhi, those who give different kinds of theories have no idea how big this opportunity is. Fifty years of bloodshed, violence for 50 years, youths of three-four generations lost their lives to this violence... after so many decades, Bodo is celebrating a festival today.," PM Modi said. PM Modi said that after the Bodo Peace Accord, Bodoland witnessed a new wave of growth. (ANI) NEWPORT, Tenn. (WATE) As Cocke County continues to recover from Hurricane Helene, people in east Tennessee have not forgotten about our neighbors in need. Compassion Ministries held one of their largest food drives Saturday, where they fed nearly 600 people in need. This is the largest crowd of volunteers we have ever had, and I think its because everyone wants to do something to help, said Compassion Ministries executive director, Robin Roland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over a month since hurricane Helene devastated the community, Roland said there is still a great need for resources in the area. Sheriff: No KCSO investigation involving Venezuelan gang reemerging in Tennessee Today, we brought in over $100,000 of food, she said, were working with Second Harvest and TVA and of course, with Walmart, and we set up this distribution and weve come prepared to serve over 500 families. From fresh produce to shelf-stable food, she said each person went home with nearly $400 worth of groceries. As someone who has worked in Cocke County for years, volunteer Kaviandra James said she is proud to be giving back to her community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You very rarely see somebody that is not supportive of each other, but sometimes they dont have anything to give themselves, said James. So, its just, its heartwarming to see the support thats out here today. Weve never had this many volunteers before here, so its been an amazing event. Its not its not always easy but we love coming and doing it and helping, She added that they could not have accomplished this drive without the help of others, like Matthew 25:30 Ministrys Jamie Reid. Its just heartwarming to just to be able to give back to people, theres just so much tragedy thats gone on and everybody needs help, and if this is a way that we could just help in just little ways, were glad to do it, said Reid. A sneak peek at the renovation plans for the historic Andrew Johnson Hotel Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the community is just starting to heal, Roland said they want to let the people of Cocke County know they are not forgotten. Weve come in to Cocke County really just to be a blessing, to encourage the people that were hit by the flood, that people are out there, they do still care and that the people that are helping them and our other customers that just need a little bit of help too, said Roland. Home based in Knox County, Compassion Ministries will have another food drive in Farragut November 21st, and plan to be in Monroe County in early December. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WATE 6 On Your Side. A former Dallas Cowboys cornerback was arrested at a hotel early Saturday in Arlington after the Jake Paul-Mike Tyson fight, according to online arrest records. Adam Pacman Jones was charged with public intoxication, assaulting a peace officer, and resisting arrest, according to arrest records. Police responded to Live! by Loews at around 1 a.m. after receiving a report of a fight breaking out in the hotels bar area, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When officers arrived, the fight had been broken up, but Jones continued to approach and yell at the other people involved, police said. A short time after that, Jones got involved in another fight in the hotels bar area, at which point officers attempted to arrest him, according to a statement from Arlington police officials. During his arrest, Jones struck the arresting officer on the arm and began walking away before being placed in handcuffs, police said. Like thousands of other people in Dallas last night, Pac was in town for the fight and was enjoying himself, spending time with the fans, a representative for Jones told TMZ Sports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The representative denied the allegations and said Jones looks forward to explaining the truth when the time comes. He was booked into the Arlington city jail at around 3:30 a.m., according to arrest records. A former employee of a residential halfway house is accused of sexually assaulting a federal inmate. Tristan Cox, 33, of Atlanta, made his initial appearance in court on Wednesday, Nov. 13 on federal charges of non-consensual sexual contact with an inmate in custody. Cox was released on a $10,000 bond. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The inmate resident said that Cox sexually assaulted him in a supply closet during Coxs overnight shift. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DNA evidence tested by the FBI confirmed the victims claim. Residential Reentry Centers, or halfway houses, are intended to provide a safe, structured, supervised environment for inmates who are nearing the end of their sentences to help them transition back into society, said Eric R. Fehlman, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General Southeast Region. Inmates should never experience assault of any kind at the hands of employees working in custodial settings. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (WFLA) A former St. Petersburg City Council member was arrested Friday for allegedly hiding cameras in an air vent so he could watch a woman as she showered and used the restroom. An arrest affidavit shows 64-year-old Jeffrey Ronald Danner was taken into custody at his home in St. Petersburg on Friday, Nov. 15, for one count of digital voyeurism. Suspect at large in shooting that left man dead, woman injured, Clearwater police say Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman told investigators with the St. Petersburg Police Department that she noticed something unusual while she was in the shower at Danners residence. The two had reportedly known each other beforehand and she was temporarily staying at his home. According to the woman, there appeared to be multiple cameras in an air vent in the bathroom, with one pointing directly toward the shower and the other toward the toilet. Jeffrey Ronald Danner (Credit: St. Petersburg Police Department) The woman took pictures of the cameras and showed them to police as evidence. She also shared a text conversation with investigators in which she confronted Danner over the cameras. In the arrest affidavit, officers said Danner responded to the woman with a text message claiming he had never connected the cameras after realizing how stupid and perverted it was. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detectives worked with the woman to conduct a controlled phone call in which they said Danner admitted to placing the cameras in the bathroom, then apologized and told her, It was a stupid idea. Danner previously served as St. Petersburgs District 8 City Council member. However, he reportedly lost his bid for reelection in 2021 to Richie Floyd. Records show Danner was booked into jail without bond. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. LEBANON COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) After a 10-year hiatus, the Fort Indiantown Gap hosted its first public open house. This is great, said Horace Ehrgood of Lebanon County. Its awesome to see what our military has. Its always been here long as Ive been alive, and they dont open it very often. So, this is an excellent opportunity to come out and see. All the equipments amazing. Due to the timing and resources available, for the first time in a decade, people like Ehrgood and his puppy Ranger got a chance to explore the Fort Indiantown Gap in Annville, Lebanon County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The last time we ran this was 2014, said Lt. Colonel Kevin Potts. So here were going to have an open house with all sorts of activities, events. There were flyovers, demonstrations, and displays of military equipment and vehicles while also allowing guests to interact with the men and women in uniform This is our community; this is part of the community outreach that the tag wants to do to show people that were still here and were still part of their community, Potts added. Were heavily involved in what they do. Brigadier General John Pippy told abc27 News, With the Fort Indiantown Gap, you have over 2500 people full time every day. So, were the largest employer. But more importantly for the military, this is the second busiest training post for the national guard in the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In September, Governor Shapiro named Brigadier General Pippy as Pas Acting Adjutant General and head of the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veteran Affairs. I can stay connected to my community; I can have my civilian job, Pippy said. I was a state legislator, I could be a state senator, a state representative, and yet still wear my uniform. So, for me, you know, this is this brings it all together because now I get the chance to lead just a tremendous organization that takes care of veterans first, that gets our men and women ready to do their military mission but also is an integral part of our community. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) A community forum was held Sunday to review project plans along the Genesee River in Rochester. Officials with the City of Rochester teamed up with the Genesee River Alliance and the Genesee Land Trust to host the forum at the Edgerton Recreation Center on Backus Street in Rochester. (WROC/Trinity Wilson) Whats really unique about this time is we have four very exciting projects that are intersecting both geographically and at the same time, said Kevin Kelly, the manager of city planning for the City of Rochester. The forum was put on to get the publics input and feedback on discussion topics including updates to ROC the Riverway, the Genesee Riverway Trail extension to Lake Ontario, High Falls State Park and the Inner Loop North transformation project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres lots of wonderful paths. The challenge is its not complete yet, Kelly explained. We have sections that are completed, especially south of downtown its really wonderful, connecting to the University of Rochester. But in downtown and north of downtown there are gaps along the way. Theyre challenging gaps because of the river gorge. So, were doing a study to figure out how to fill in the gaps on the trail. Organizers said there was a lot of work that still needs to be done to ensure the path is seamless and something the community can be proud of. We want our city to be revitalized and transformed so that it enhances our connection to the riverway trail, and that we recognize the river as an asset, said Helen Dumas, the head of the Genesee River Alliance. Its important for people to come out so that one, theyre aware, and they know things are happening, so they dont wake up to a state park in their backyard. To learn more about the work being done, or to provide input, you can find a survey here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) Three men and one woman have been arrested after Jackson police said they stole copper from a business. Officers responded to the 3600 block of Metro Center Drive on Thursday, November 14. They received a description of the suspects and their vehicle. Detective Tommie Brown said the suspects were arrested on the top-level loading dock. Teen pleads guilty to murder, other violent crimes in Jackson Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Brown, William Floyd, John Henry, Rachel Stepp and Zackery Williams forced their way into the building on the lower level of the Burlington store. He said the vehicle used in the crime was a 2002 Chevrolet Silverado that had a switched tag. William Floyd (Courtesy: JPD) John Henry (Courtesy: Hinds Co. Detention Center) Rachel Stepp (Courtesy: Hinds Co. Detention Center) Zackery Williams (Courtesy: Hinds Co. Detention Center) Police said they located guns, burglary tools and copper wire inside the suspects vehicle. The suspects will face the following charges: William Floyd Business burglary, possession of burglary tools and convicted felony of firearm John Henry Business burglary, possession of burglary tools, convicted felony of firearm and two active warrants for business burglary Rachel Stepp Business burglary, possession of burglary tools and convicted felony of firearm Zackery Williams Business burglary and possession of burglary tools Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) Four people were taken to multiple Columbus hospitals after a shooting early Sunday morning on the south side. A police dispatcher said officers were alerted of a shooting at the 1700 block of Parsons Avenue in the Vassor Village neighborhood just after 3:30 a.m. Three people injured from gunshots were found at the scene and taken to various hospitals in the area. One victim was transported in stable condition while two others were described as being in extremely stable condition, per the dispatcher. Columbus police looking for suspect in stabbing and carjacking Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police later learned a fourth person was injured in the shooting and went to the hospital on their own. The fourth victims condition was also described as stable. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. DES MOINES, Iowa The Fourmile Mountain Bike Park held a soft opening Saturday with a community ride through their new biking trails ahead of their 2025 grand opening. Located at 1601 Williams Street in Des Moines, the park sits on 50.25 acres of land in east Des Moines and Pleasant Hill along the Gay Lea Wilson Trail. Polk County Conservation and Central Iowa Trail Association (CITA) came together to design and undertake the project. The trails have been constructed and will be maintained by the CITA. It takes a community; we are 100 percent volunteer based so everything is built by volunteers and maintained by volunteers, so the trail users are the ones putting in the work, said Dave McCloney the president of the Central Iowa Trail Association. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The project included construction of biking trials, more parking, and other amenities. Earth berms, flow trails, wood jumps and boardwalks, and stream crossings are featured throughout the trail. They finished construction on the trails this fall but the project will not be completely finished till the spring of 2025. Saturday, several hundred people came to the park to enjoy the trails before they close for the winter season. The outcome was greater than they had anticipated but McCloney says hes not surprised that the new trails are drawing in a crowd. Weve talked in the past, and we heard it today, that people are going to travel to come here. So, when they come and travel, they are going to stay, so there is an economic impact and they will probably enjoy a nice meal afterwards, so its going to be a positive impact. Des Moines Public Works recycling helpers improved citys recycling stream Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Fourmile trails are unique not only because they cater to mountain biking, but they are also designed with conservation in mind. The trails were built using green infrastructure concepts, including designs that address stormwater runoff from the proposed parking lot. The trails also connect and intertwine so that people can enjoy the Fourmile Creek Greenway or the adjacent Copper Creek Lake Park. Its something unique to the Des Moines area, we dont have a dedicated trail system like this in the Des Moines area, said McCloney. What we have is a more traditional hand cut mountain bike trail, and these are machine built. The trail isnt just for mountain bikes there are some trails that will be great for families to come walk and hike and run. Mountain biking trails are not designed for the same style of smooth travel one would expect on a regular trial. They can be a bit more intense and because of this the equipment and safety standards may look a little different. You want to make sure your bike is in good working order; I wouldnt recommend bringing my same bike that I would ride RAGBRAI on this trail. Make sure you have good safety equipment; a helmet is highly recommended for any of the mountain bike trails Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The trails will be open from sunrise to sunset from November to March permitting weather and safety conditions. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. Ahead of the forthcoming assembly by-polls in Kedarnath, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday addressed a public meeting in the Rudraprayag district for the party candidate Asha Nautiyal. Addressing a rally in Chandranagar, Rudraprayag, the Chief Minister bowed to the holy land of Kedarnath and said that he considers himself fortunate to have come to the holy land of Gods and Goddesses. He urged the public to support the BJP candidate Asha Nautiyal. The Chief Minister said that Asha Nautiyal has always done the best development work here while serving the area. He added that for the development of this area, we have to fulfill the dreams of the former MLA Shaila Rani. Kedarnath Assembly seat was vacant after the death of the former MLA Shaila Rani. During the address, CM Dhami said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a special love for Uttarakhand, as he is a great devotee of Baba Kedarnath. His devotion, faith, and love for Kedarnath are not hidden from anyone. He added that PM Modi has declared the third decade of the 21st century as the decade of Uttarakhand and a grand form of Kedarnath Dham is being built under his guidance. This area has been developed with an amount of more than Rs 2,000 crore. From the construction of control rooms, hospitals, and police stations to housing for pilgrimage priests, the government is engaged in several works in the area. "...Prime Minister had said in Kedarnath Dham that the third decade of 21st century will be of Uttarakhand. It means that the coming 10 years will be of Uttarakhand in every sector. Uttarakhand will develop rapidly, it will be at the heights of progress. He didn't say it just for the sake of saying, he said this with a resolve and its impact can be seen today across the Kedarnath Assembly constituency and the state," he said. Counting the efforts of the state government, CM Dhami stated that the state government has taken several steps, including a bill of Uniform Civil Code (UCC), Conversion Law, Anti-Riot Law, and Anti-Copying Law. He added that 18500 government jobs have been given in the state in the last 3 years. The bye-elections in the Kedarnath Assembly constituency will be held on November 20 and the counting of votes will take place on November 23. (ANI) France and the UK, following the US, have reportedly granted Ukraine permission to use their long-range SCALP and Storm Shadow missiles for strikes on Russian territory. Source: Le Figaro Quote: "The French and the British have authorised Ukraine to strike deep into Russian territory using their SCALP/Storm Shadow missiles." Details: The publication provides no further details or specific sources for this information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The broader article focuses on US President Joe Biden's authorisation for Ukrainian forces to launch strikes deep into Russian territory with American ATACMS missiles. "This decision represents a significant shift in the operations of Ukrainian forces, who are reported to possess more American missiles than Franco-British ones," notes Le Figaro. For reference: Storm Shadow/SCALP is a long-range air-to-ground missile jointly developed by the UK and France and designed to target stationary objectives, including well-protected sites like bunkers, even in adverse weather conditions and at any time of day. The missiles warhead weighs 450 kg. Storm Shadow missiles can be mounted on Ukrainian Soviet-era jet aircraft. Background: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier, The New York Times reported that Biden Biden had, for the first time, authorised Ukrainian forces to use long-range ATACMS missiles to strike Russian territory. Sources say that these weapons are likely to be initially used against Russian and North Korean troops in Kursk Oblast. The report also highlighted that while British and French leaders had expressed support for President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's request for long-range strikes on Russian territory, they had hesitated to permit their use until Biden agreed to authorise the deployment of ATACMS. As per Reuters, Ukraine plans to carry out strikes on Russian territory using American long-range missiles in the coming days. Support UP or become our patron! BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) - French President Emmanuel Macron said that a major Russian air barrage against Ukraine on Sunday showed that Russian President Vladimir Putin "does not want peace and is not ready to negotiate". The priority for France was to "equip, support and help Ukraine to resist", Macron told reporters as he prepared to leave Argentina to attend the G20 Summit in Brazil. He declined to comment on German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's call with Putin on Friday, adding that Ukraine's allies "must remain united .... on an agenda for genuine peace, that is to say, a peace that does not mean Ukraine's surrender". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Regarding trade talks between the European Union and the Mercosur bloc, Macron reiterated France's opposition to a deal due to concerns over agricultural imports from South America that do not meet European standards. But Macron said Argentine President Javier Milei also expressed dissatisfaction to him with the current terms of the trade accord, reached in 2019 but never ratified as France objected. "I come out of this meeting with the belief that we're not there yet and I would like to reassure our farmers," Macron said after meeting Milei on Sunday. The EU-Mercosur talks have led French farmers to plan nationwide protests from Monday. (Reporting by Elizabeth Pineau and Gus Trompiz; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne and Kevin Liffey) Nov. 16FRANKLIN FURNACE A Franklin Furnace man, who was arrested for the murder of a Kentucky man found dead behind the wheel of bullet-riddled SUV, is facing additional charges. Jacub Tyler Carver, 25, of Franklin Furnace, was arrested Thursday and charged with murder. On Saturday, the Scioto County sheriff announced Carver had also been charged with first-degree felony attempted murder and second-degree felony felonious assault. The case began Thursday night around 7:46 p.m., the Scioto County 911 center got a call about a shooting at 19 Disterdick Lane, Ironton. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When deputies and detectives arrived on the scene they found Ronnie L. Rowe, 24, of South Shore, Kentucky, dead behind the wheel of a Chevy Equinox that had multiple bullet holes in it. Scioto County Sheriff David Thoroughman said that during the investigation, detectives learned another man had been inside the Chevy during the shooting. The man had fled on foot and detectives were able to locate him within minutes walking on U.S. 52 in the Franklin Furnace area. Carver was identified as the shooter and was detained. Carver was initially charged with one count of first degree felony murder. He is currently being held on a $100,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in Portsmouth Municipal Court on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thoroughman stated that the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigations was contacted to assist with processing the crime scene. Rowe has been sent to the Montgomery County Coroner's Office for an autopsy. Thoroughman stated that this is still an ongoing investigation that will result in more charges being presented to the Scioto County Grand Jury on a later date. Anyone with information should contact Detective Sergeant Jodi Conkel at 740-351-1091. PARIS (Reuters) - Farmers staged protests across France on Monday at the prospect of a trade deal between the European Union and South America's Mercosur bloc, which will further intensify competition for the French agriculture sector. The EU and four Mercosur members - Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay - are pushing to conclude long-running trade negotiations by the end of the year. Monday's protests were the biggest since French farmers held weeks of large-scale demonstrations last winter over cheaper imports, burdensome regulations and meagre incomes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The protests were mostly peaceful on Monday but tractors briefly blocked part of a highway near Paris in the morning, while others dumped manure in front of government buildings. "We have the same demands as in January, nothing has changed," Armelle Fraiture said on her dairy farm north of Paris. "We must make the government understand that enough is enough." This year French farmers have had to contend with rain-hit harvests, livestock disease outbreaks and a parliamentary election that delayed measures promised to defuse the previous protests. A Mercosur deal would represent a bitter "cherry on the cake", Arnaud Rousseau, head of France's main farmers' union, the FNSEA, told BFM TV. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tens of thousands of farms in France, the EU's biggest agricultural producer, were in financial trouble, he said. French farmers fear a Mercosur accord will bring more beef, chicken, sugar and maize from Brazil and Argentina, countries they say use pesticides on crops and growth antibiotics in livestock that are outlawed in Europe. Protests are planned to run into December, FNSEA said. "There's a lot of anger out there," the head of Young Farmers group Pierrick Horel told RMC radio. "Even if we don't approve the destruction of products, there comes a time when, unfortunately, it comes out, sometimes very strongly, very vehemently." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday reiterated his opposition to a deal with Mercosur as proposed. But with France lacking EU allies in the Mercosur talks, and rural grievances running deep, the authorities may struggle to placate the farmers. Similar frustration was voiced by farmers across Europe last winter after a surge in imports from Ukraine following Russia's invasion in 2022. (Reporting by Manuel Ausloos, Stephane Mahe, Gus Trompiz and Sybille de La Hamaide, Additional reporting by Kevin Coombs, Marco Trujillo and Stephanie Lecocq; Writing by Gus Trompiz, Editing by David Holmes and Susan Fenton) The Israeli military launched further attacks on the city centre of the Lebanese capital Beirut on Sunday. The state news agency NNA reported an Israeli attack near the famous Mar Elias shopping street. Witnesses told dpa there had been at least two consecutive impacts on the densely populated area. The Lebanese Health Ministry said two people were killed and 13 injured. Initial reports indicated that an electronics store had been hit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A few hours earlier, the Israeli military had hit the Ras Al Naba district in the heart of the capital. Lebanese security sources said the spokesman for the pro-Iranian Hezbollah militia Mohammed Afif was killed in that strike. Afif was one of the few remaining publicly known faces of Hezbollah after the killing of the group's leadership and had recently led press conferences. He was considered a confidante of the militia's former secretary general Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike at the end of September. The Israeli military did not issue evacuation notices ahead of the attacks in Beirut. There were several such calls issued for the southern suburbs of Beirut, known as Dahieh, which Israeli Air Force has attacked several times in recent days. According to the military, the attacks on Dahieh targeted Hezbollah's command centres and other facilities. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) The battle against drug addiction and death in Ohio is getting a big boost. The fourth round of state opioid and stimulant grant funds are making their way to local nonprofits. The organizations are using the funds to continue their mission to help prevent and decrease overdose deaths throughout Ohio. William Perry, with This Must Be the Place, notes he got the call just two days ago that his organization would be receiving over $140,000. He understands this money gives them the capabilities to truly reach people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This money was lifesaving to us, Perry said. We werent sure what was going to happen after the first of the year. We were up against the wall where our current funding was running out. And we were unsure what the future held. $100 million coming from the federal substance abuse and mental health services administration will be distributed across Ohio. Hanad Duale, President of UNIK foundation believes this money gives them much needed resources to prevent and further decrease opioid overdoses. This funding enables us to do is identify, train and hire individuals, Duale said. We want to make sure that fellow citizens are getting the services they need so that we can continue to make both of these strong and productive. The state knows it is vital to support local organizations that provide these services. In the past 2 years, overdose deaths in Ohio have steadily dropped. In 2023, Ohio had a 9% decline in overdose deaths, outpacing the national decline which stood at 2%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All eyes in the country as far as the people who fight the opioid epidemic are watching Ohio currently to see how we act and what we do and this signaling that were going to support grassroots organizations shows the rest of the country that thats whats needed, Perry said. The overall goal is for everyone to know that no matter who you are, there are places in the community that can give you support. Whether thats treatment, whether thats things like Narcan, that theyre available to the people that need it, Perry said. Its through funding opportunities like this one that just came down that were able to continue doing that work. A portion of the funding will enable organizations to partner with state agencies to ensure naloxone and other resources are available across Ohio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Credit: Krisztian Bocsi / Bloomberg / Getty Images As Europe digested the US election result last week, three leading figures of the German government were holding crisis talks in Berlin, said The Economist. But Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Vice-Chancellor Robert Habeck and the finance minister, Christian Lindner, weren't discussing how best to respond to Donald Trump's proposed tariffs or the likely US stance on Ukraine: "they were deciding whether to blow up their fraying coalition. Barely 12 hours later, it was all over and how." In a "blistering speech", Scholz eviscerated Lindner, who leads the pro-business Free Democrats (FDP), for his "incomprehensible egotism" and promptly fired him. The three parties that made up the "traffic-light" coalition that took office in 2021 Scholz's Social Democrats (SPD), the FDP and the Greens had lost patience with each other long ago, but this was the final blow. Scholz has brought "one of the most unpopular governments in modern German history" to an "ignoble end". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not before time, said Jan Schafer in Bild (Berlin). Far from tackling Germany's major problems, from its stagnant economy to its failing asylum policies, the coalition "led the country into an even deeper mess" with its meddling and infighting. To be fair, the origins of the economic mess should be traced to the failure of former chancellor Angela Merkel, said Wolfgang Munchau in The Times: it was she who allowed the economy to become over-reliant on a few industries like cars and chemicals; dependent on Russia for gas; dependent on China for exports. It was she who allowed Germany to fall far behind in digital tech; it now has one of Europe's worst mobile phone networks, and many shops "still only accept cash". The economic crisis may be of long standing, said Alexander Marguier in Cicero (Berlin), but Scholz is to blame for "the deepest political crisis since the founding of the Federal Republic". He tried to force Lindner to suspend the constitutional rules that limit the size of Germany's deficit in order to facilitate help for Ukraine, knowing Lindner wouldn't agree: then he sacked Lindner when he baulked. Scholz's lame-duck minority government will now have to soldier on until snap elections, called for early 2025. And each of the coalition parties is likely to come a cropper in these elections, said Nette Nostlinger on Politico (Brussels): Scholz's SPD is polling at a miserable 16%; the FDP and Greens are doing even worse. All three face growing challenges from both the hard-left populist Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance, and the far-right AfD. But it's Friedrich Merz, of the centre-right Christian Democrats (CDU), who's likely to be Germany's next chancellor, said Josef Kelnberger in Suddeutsche Zeitung (Munich). We can only hope he will rid the country of its new reputation as the "sick man of Europe", and offer real leadership at a time when the EU confronts the prospect of a second Trump presidency and a surge in support for the far-right. WASHINGTON (AP) Tulsi Gabbard, President-elect Donald Trump's choice to lead the U.S. intelligence services, in 2022 endorsed one of Russia's main justifications for invading Ukraine: the existence of dozens of U.S.-funded biolabs working on some of the world's nastiest pathogens. Moscow claimed Ukraine was using the labs to create deadly bioweapons similar to COVID-19 that could be used against Russia, and that Russian President Vladimir Putin had no choice but to invade neighboring Ukraine to protect his country. In fact, the labs are public and part of an international effort to control outbreaks and stop bioweapons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabbard, a military veteran and a former Democratic congresswoman from Hawaii, later said she wasn't accusing the United States or Ukraine of anything nefarious and was just voicing concerns about protecting the labs. But to critics in the U.S., including lawmakers in both parties, the comments showed a disturbing willingness to parrot Russian propaganda a tendency that has earned Gabbard praise on Russian state TV. Gabbard's past comments supportive of Russia as well as secret meetings with Syria's president, a close ally of Russia and Iran are attracting fresh scrutiny from Democrats and national security analysts who fear that as Trump's director of national intelligence she could give Russia a major win, undercut Ukraine, weaken U.S. national security and endanger intelligence ties with allies. Gabbard, like Gaetz, is like a hand grenade ready to explode, former Trump national security adviser John Bolton said, speaking of Matt Gaetz, the former Florida congressman who is Trump's pick for attorney general. Republicans who throw themselves on those grenades for Donald Trump are risking their own personal reputations and places in history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabbard says American assistance for Ukraine jeopardizes global security by antagonizing Russia. She has criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as corrupt and has expressed sympathy for Russias position, given Ukraines desire to join NATO, the Western military alliance. This war and suffering could have easily been avoided if Biden Admin/NATO had simply acknowledged Russias legitimate security concerns, she posted on Twitter at the start of Russias invasion in 2022. Democrats say Gabbards comments signify a pro-Russian bent that poses a problem for U.S. national security if she is confirmed by the Senate. Do you really want her to have all of the secrets of the United States and our defense intelligence agencies when she has so clearly been in Putins pocket? Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., said on MSNBC. That just has to be a hard no. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Office of the Director of National Intelligence was created after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks to coordinate the nation's intelligence agencies and act as the president's main intelligence adviser. Gabbard and the Trump transition team did not respond to questions seeking comment. She has in the past defended her actions and said her military service she has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades and deployed to Iraq and Kuwait has made her skeptical about military interventions. Gabbard also has defended Trump's relationship with autocrats such as Putin, saying it shows Trump has the courage to meet with adversaries, dictators, allies and partners alike in the pursuit of peace, seeing war as a last resort. Gabbard's own meetings with Syrian President Bashar Assad in 2017 angered many of her then-fellow Democrats. They said her visit helped legitimize a leader accused of war crimes and who has served as a proxy and host for Russia and Iran in the Middle East. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Assad welcomed Russias military into Syria in 2015 to crush a popular uprising against him. Russian forces and Iranian-allied militias have remained, using Syria as a base for attacks on American troops and their allies. The U.S. has severed diplomatic relations with Syria and placed Assad under heavy sanctions over the brutality with which he, Russian warplanes and Iranian-allied forces crushed the uprising, leading to 500,000 deaths. Gabbard ran for president in 2020 before dropping out and endorsing Democrat Joe Biden, who defeated Trump. Two years later, she left the Democratic Party to become an independent, criticizing her former colleagues as an elitist cabal of warmongers and woke ideologues. She subsequently campaigned for several high-profile Republicans, became a contributor to Fox News and started a podcast. Gabbard's remarks about Russia haven't gone unnoticed in Moscow, where state-run media have praised her and even jokingly referred to her as a Russian agent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An article published Friday in RIA Novosti, a major Russian state-controlled news agency, called Gabbard superwoman" and noted her past appearances on Russian TV, claiming that Ukrainian intelligence views her as probably an agent of the Russian special services. Gabbard's stance on Russia and Syria is likely to come up during her Senate confirmation. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, said that while he has questions about her comments and believes Gabbard should receive the traditional background check during her confirmation process, he doesn't second-guess her loyalties. I certainly would want to ask her about that, Cornyn said of Gabbards Russia comments. But I have no doubt that shes a patriot. I mean, she served in the United States military and was deployed much of the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement America's allies are watching the nomination process closely, worried about how Trump's incoming administration could affect intelligence cooperation and sharing. Trump's election raises very difficult issues for America's closest allies and members of the Five Eyes group, an intelligence-sharing coalition of the U.S., the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and Canada, according to Thomas Juneau, a former strategic analyst with Canada's Department of National Defence. Will the U.S. be more selective in what it shares, to pressure allies? If yes, this will create mistrust between the U.S. and its closest partners, Juneau said. In the long term, this would negatively affect the Five Eyes, which is an extremely close partnership premised on an extraordinarily high level of trust. Some officials in allied governments declined to speak about Gabbard and other Trump picks. Since Bidens dismal debate showing, which led to Vice President Kamala Harris becoming the Democratic nominee, some key European allies said they already were scrambling to build up a security strategy less reliant on the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement French President Emmanuel Macron and other European officials underscored that publicly after the U.S. election. ___ Lederer reported from the United Nations. Associated Press writers Lynn Berry and Kevin Freking contributed to this report. LIBREVILLE, Gabon (AP) Voters in Gabon overwhelmingly approved a new constitution, authorities said Sunday, more than one year after mutinous soldiers overthrew the countrys longtime president and seized power in the oil-rich Central African nation. Over 91% of voters approved the new constitution in a referendum held on Saturday, Gabon's Interior Minister Hermann Immongault said in a statement read on state television. Turnout was an estimated 53.5%, he added. The final results will be announced by the Constitutional Court, the interior minister said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The draft constitution, which proposes sweeping changes that could prevent dynastic rule and transfer of power, needed more than 50% of the votes cast to be adopted. In 2023, soldiers toppled President Ali Bongo Ondimba and put him under house arrest, accusing him of irresponsible governance and massive embezzlement that risked leading the country into chaos. The junta released Ondimba a week later on humanitarian grounds, allowing him travel abroad for medical treatment. The soldiers proclaimed their Republican Guard chief, Gen. Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, as president of a transitional committee to lead the country. Oligui is a cousin of Bongo. Bongo had served two terms since coming to power in 2009 after the death of his father, who ruled the country for 41 years. His rule was marked by widespread discontent with his reign. A coup attempt in 2019 failed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The draft constitution imposes a seven-year term, renewable only once, instead of the current charter that allows for five-year terms renewable without limit. It also says family members cannot succeed a president and abolishes the position of prime minister. The former French colony is a member of OPEC but its oil wealth is concentrated in the hands of a few and nearly 40% of Gabonese aged 15 to 24 were out of work in 2020, according to the World Bank. Its oil export revenue was $6 billion in 2022, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Assam Chief Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) co-in-charge for Jharkhand election Himanta Biswa Sarma assured that his party, along with the All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU), will run the state government 'very well' if voted to power in Jharkhand. "AJSU has experience in governance, we will learn from them and they will learn from us too. Together we will run the government very well," Himanta Biswa Sarma said in a press briefing in Bokaro on Saturday. Notably, AJSU, BJP, JDU, and LJP are contesting the Jharkhand election under the NDA banner. Describing the BJP's governance in Chhattisgarh the Assam Chief Minister said, "...In Chhattisgarh, we buy paddy for Rs 300, we implemented our premiere women direct bank transfer scheme from the first month this is the model of BJP's good governance." Meanwhile, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah over their criticism of the ruling JMM-led alliance on "infiltration", saying that the central government is responsible for managing international borders and has to answer if people are coming into the country illegally. He also slammed the BJP over its leaders questioning the contributions of Congress and said the party had given the country its Constitution and created institutions without which Narendra Modi would not have been holding the Prime Minister's post. He said BJP government at the Centre is responsible for securing the borders. Mallikarjun Kharge further accused the RSS and the BJP of trying to divide the people in the country and slammed the slogan 'batenge toh katenge'. He countered it with the slogan "awaz do, hum ek hain". The second phase of polls in Jharkhand will be held on November 20. The first phase of voting in 43 seats concluded on November 13. The counting of votes for the Jharkhand election will be held on November 23. (ANI) LIBREVILLE (Reuters) - Gabonese voters approved a new constitution by a landslide 91.8%, the interior minister said on Sunday, after a referendum that the junta in power promised would be a steppingstone to democratic rule. Speaking on state television, Minister Hermann Immongault said turnout was an estimated 53.5%. General Brice Oligui Nguema, who is interim president, has touted Saturday's vote as a sign of the government's commitment to a democratic transition, tentatively scheduled for summer 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Military officers seized power in a coup in August last year. The Gabonese largely welcomed the ouster of President Ali Bongo. His family's poor management of the central African country's oil wealth had led to a stagnant economy and a third of the population living in poverty. The proposed new constitution introduces a two-term limit on the presidency, each lasting seven years. It removes the position of prime minister and recognises French as Gabon's working language. The draft does not bar Nguema from running for the presidency, raising concern for some commentators about the junta's ambitions. (Reporting by Gerauds Wilfried Obangome, Writing by Alessandra Prentice; Editing by Lisa Shumaker and Cynthia Osterman) Sen.-elect Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) declined to say on Sunday whether he intends to vote to confirm President-elect Trumps pick to lead the Pentagon, former Fox News co-host Pete Hegseth, saying he will allow him to explain his controversial past comments. In an interview on CNNs State of the Union, anchor Jake Tapper noted that Hegseth has said women should not serve in combat roles and that the Joint Chiefs chair should be fired for being too woke. Im going to give him an opportunity to, number one, explain himself, and Ill give that to all these Cabinet members, Gallego said when asked about those comments in the interview and whether he will vote for confirmation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gallego, who deployed to Iraq with the Marines, said he will approach each confirmation hearing and vote from the perspective of what is best for his Arizona constituents. The most important things that Im going to use for all the metrics of everybody thats running is, number one, are you going to protect and serve the Constitution of the United States? Number two, is this going to be beneficial to Arizona, and are you, where relevant, you know, going to help us bring down the cost of everything thats in Arizona and the country in general? So, you know, Im not going to jump ahead and say yes or no, Gallego continued. Ill give him his opportunity as part of my constitutional duties, but I think he has to answer for a lot of what he has said in the past. Hegseth is one of several controversial picks that Trump has made for his Cabinet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to reports about Hegseths past comments, news that Hegseth was investigated in 2017 for an alleged sexual assault incident has come into focus in recent days since Trump announced his appointment. The Monterey Police Department confirmed an investigation of an alleged sexual assault at a home in October 2017 between the late-night hours and early morning. A summary of the report said the victim suffered a contusion to their right thigh, but the city did not release the report or additional details. The city did not indicate whether charges were filed in the case nor whether Hegseth was named the aggressor. Vanity Fair reported that Trumps incoming chief of staff, Susie Wiles, along with attorneys, spoke with Hegseth about the sexual assault allegation Thursday. Hegseth told Trumps team the allegation stemmed from a consensual encounter, according to Vanity Fair. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hegseth was an infantry officer in the Army National Guard from 2002 to 2021. After graduating from Princeton University in 2003, he went on to serve tours in Guantanamo Bay from 2004 to 2005, in Iraq from 2005 to 2006 and in Afghanistan from 2011 to 2012, according to the Army National Guard. For the past decade, he has been a Fox News personality and host of its weekend Fox & Friends program. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Nov. 17dbeard @dominionpost.com MORGANTOWN GATC West Virginia is making progress in medical innovation at its headquarters in the WVU Innovation Corp. Their lab is up and running and they're hiring, Chief Business Officer Ty Lam told us during a visit to their offices. First, some background. As we reported in August, GATC is innovating in two big ways. One, it's streamlining the creation of pharmaceuticals using it artificial intelligence Multiomics Advanced Technology (MAT) platform. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And two, they've partnered with Medical and Commercial International (MCI) an insurance underwriter based in London and a syndicate of Lloyd's of London to create clinical trial insurance coverage. This means that instead of a biotech entrepreneur having to sell off its equity to acquire the vast funds to move forward, it can take a loan, and the lender will be protected from failure by the insurance. Back ot the present. "We've actually got a live working lab, " Lam said. Their offices are in the office wing of the WVUIC complex, and the lab is located in part of the former Mylan factory building. Their first lead chemist, Alexa Martin, is now synthesizing compounds in the lab. She was in the office during our visit and told a little bit of her story. She completed her undergrad at Pitt and earned her doctorate in synthetic organic chemistry at WVU in 2022. With no local opportunities for work, she sought more training at Emory University in Georgia. But when she learned about California-based GATC Health hiring for its Morgantown operation, she inquired and got hired. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I was so happy to come home, " she said. And Lam added, "We are beyond happy to have her." Their second lead chemist, head of GATC's Chemical Research and Development at their Washington site, will be moving frm Tacoma to Morgantown early next year, Lam said. And they have an offer out to a third. Then they will build a team under those three. "We're bringing people to West Virginia, " Lam said. We talked about GATC's work using AI to develop drugs faster and more reliably. As we reported in August, drug development costs run from $160 billion to $200 billion per year. It may cost $1 billion or more to get a single drug through the 10-12 year FDA approval process, and 95 % of them fail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Drug developers will consider particular cellular targets to address a disease cause and then create compounds molecules to bind with the target cells. That takes four to six years. They then synthesize the compound for pre-clinical cellular testing, then animal testing, then human testing. An early stage biotech company might spend tens of millions on pre-clinical trials, then need hundreds of millions more for clinical trials. Only 40-50 new drugs survive the process each year. GATC's MAT platform takes that initial four-to six-year process and reduces it to 18 months, and they're looking to reduce it to 12 months. And these AI-crafted compounds will have a greater likelihood of surviving the pre-clinical (generally animal) and clinical (human) trials for FDA approval. They want to improve the 5-10 % success rate to 90 %. "All the work that's being done here has a much greater likelihood of making it through the cycle, " Lam said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another GATC advance is synthesizing their own cells for the in-vitro phase of pre-clinical testing. Before a drug is tested in an animal, it's first tested in vitro checking for effects, and dangerous side effects, in cells. They had been outsourcing that work to a firm in India, which takes a long time. "We said we should be doing this ourselves, " Lam said. "We're now building the cell ourselves. ... We're taking on lot of this pre-clinical work ourselves, not because we planned on it but because it makes the results of our AI platform come to fruition faster and with better results." Martin pointed out another important advantage. The AI platform is built on human data, not on data from rats and mice and rabbits and other lab animals. They said one of the reasons cliical trials can fail is because animal-based results don't translate to humans. So human-based AI modeling offers better results. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We said in August that Lam is a Virginia native and had his eye on West Virginia for GATC, for various reasons. One, space at the Innovation Corp. offered GATC the opportunity to consolidate lab operations in Morgantown. In March, the state Economic Development Authority and the Jobs Investment Trust approved a $5 million investment into GATC West Virginia to bring jobs here and advance its work. The company received its first $2 million and will receive an additional $1 million for each 10 people it hires, Lam said. Now, he said, GATC is working closely with WVU and Marshall on their drug-development research to help them transition it to the pre-clinical phase. "We now have the opportunity to partner even further with the university. It's becoming a really symbiotic relationship." GATC has its first drug invention awaiting FDA trials, Lam said. It's a potential breakthrough treatment for opioid use disorder. Another one, for PTSD treatment, is in the pipeline. Boating enthusiasts and representatives of the recreational boating industry are asking Georgia lawmakers to separate the right to float along the states rivers and streams from hunting and fishing. That was a major theme of the final meeting Nov. 13 of a legislative study committee that has been grappling with how to guarantee Georgians access to the states navigable rivers and streams without violating private property rights. The right of passage is independent of laws relating to navigability, Joe Cook, paddle coordinator for Georgia Rivers, a member of the Freedom to Float Coalition, told members of the study committee. Common law guarantees the right to float. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The right to float down Georgia waterways has been caught up in a debate over fishing rights that began early last year when a property owner on the Yellow Jacket Shoals portion of the Flint River banned fishing there and sued the state to enforce it. The General Assembly responded with legislation codifying public fishing rights into state law. But that didnt clear up confusion over which rivers and streams across the state are navigable and, thus, open to fishing and paddling, and which are off limits. The House Study Committee on Navigable Streams has held several hearings this summer and fall to try to come to grips with that issue. Front and center in the debate has been legislation House Majority Whip James Burchett, R-Waycross, introduced this year naming 64 rivers and creeks presumed to be navigable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Burchetts list bill has run into strong opposition. Representatives of the Freedom to Float Coalition argue the bill, if adopted, would ensure the publics right to boat, fish, and hunt on just 5% of the states 70,000 miles of waterways. List bills do not work when it comes to capturing the breadth of recreational boating in Georgia, said Suzanne Welander, author of Canoeing and Kayaking in Georgia. List bills barely scratch the surface of where people are boating today without conflict. Burchett has suggested that boaters wishing to float down streams that are not on the list of navigable waterways seek permission from landowners along the banks of those streams. But Janina Edwards, a kayaking instructor in DeKalb County, dismissed seeking out every property owner along a stream as unrealistic and even potentially dangerous. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This idea could get me killed for trespassing or having to get permission from dozens of property owners, she said. If a person has a vessel and it will float on a Georgia waterway, we have a right to recreate on it. Opponents of limiting access to the states rivers and streams also are putting forth an economic argument. Boating and fishing generated $1.1 billion in economic activity in 2022, and 70 small businesses offering canoe, kayak, tube, raft and paddleboard rentals as well as hundreds of independent fishing guides depend on access to Georgia waterways. Lets not curtail an entire river recreation sector, Andrea White, community programs coordinator for Georgia Rivers, told the study committee. Its a major draw for our state. The study committee has until Dec. 1 to make recommendations for the full House to consider during the 2025 General Assembly session starting in January. While Burchetts bill died with the end of the 2023-24 legislative term, it could resurface next year. It wont be an easy debate, Rep. Lynn Smith, R-Newnan, the study committees chairperson, said at the end of the Nov. 13 hearing. But its one worth having. A Georgia man is facing charges after a traffic stop led to the discovery of human smuggling. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Deputies in Okaloosa County, Florida said it happened Friday around 12:30 a.m. when deputies made a traffic stop near Crestview. According to the sheriffs office, a deputy spotted Michael Frost, of Columbus, GA, traveling northbound in the southbound lanes of State Route 85 near Airport Road. Frost was driving a white pickup truck with Georgia plates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After deputies stopped the truck they learned Frost had two Hispanic men in the truck. TRENDING STORIES: Okaloosa County officials said the two men were from Mexico did not speak English and only had a Mexican ID. Authorities said Frost told deputies he was paid $100 to smuggle the men into Crestview Florida for a friend. Investigators said Frost had nearly $2,500 in cash, which included 20 $100 bills. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was booked into the Okaloosa County Jail in Crestview on two counts of smuggling illegal individuals into the state. The investigation is active and ongoing. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said he supports Chancellor Olaf Scholz's phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, despite criticism from NATO allies and Kiev. "There is no talk of peace with Putin at the moment, and yet we must keep trying and at the same time support Ukraine," he told the public broadcaster ARD on Sunday evening. Less than 48 hours after Friday's phone call, Pistorius said Putin showed "what he thinks of peace negotiations or a ceasefire." "He had civilian infrastructure in Ukraine bombed from the air in a way that has not been seen for a long time," referring to Moscow's widespread strikes early Sunday on the country's power grid. Germany's Green Party is to nominate its chancellor candidate for the upcoming elections at the end of its three-day party conference on Sunday. Economy Minister Robert Habeck has been widely tipped to be the party's nomination, after his only serious rival, Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock - who ran as the Green chancellor candidate in the 2021 election - said in September she would not pursue a candidacy in the next election. Habeck, who also serves as vice chancellor in Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government, confirmed his plans to run as the Green Party's candidate for the top job in a video published on social media last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I am running as the Green candidate, for the people in Germany," he said. While Habeck needs to secure the support of party members for his nomination, he is not competing against other candidates for votes. Instead, the party's executive board has submitted an urgent motion, which refers to Habeck as the "candidate for the people of Germany." Habeck would be officially nominated as the party's candidate for chancellor if the motion is passed. Germany is currently preparing for early elections, expected in February, following the collapse of the government coalition last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Germany's pro-business Free Democrats withdrew from the coalition after Scholz dismissed party leader Christian Lindner from his post as finance minister following months of wrangling over the 2025 budget. According to the executive board's motion, Habeck is expected to lead the election campaign alongside Baerbock. But he faces a tough road ahead, with the Greens currently languishing on around 11-12% in the polls. Habeck appealed to voters last week: "I am ready to offer my experience, my skill and my responsibility - as chancellor, if you want. But that's not my decision; it's your decision." Delegates at the party conference in Wiesbaden on Saturday also elected Franziska Brantner and Felix Banaszak as the party's new co-chairs for the next two years. (Bloomberg) -- Germanys Greens picked Economy Minister Robert Habeck to lead them into February elections as support for Chancellor Olaf Scholz among his own Social Democrats seemed to be crumbling. Most Read from Bloomberg Habeck, whos also Scholzs deputy, secured 96.5% of the vote at a Green party congress on Sunday. Hed announced his intention to run as the Greens candidate for chancellor last week, setting up a contest with Scholz and conservative opposition frontrunner Friedrich Merz. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking to party members, Habeck warned against renewed cooperation between the CDU and SPD. The past grand coalition governments are to blame for the countrys gridlock, he said, and continuing this policy is damaging Germany. The Social Democrats, meanwhile, are less united on who to pick as their candidate. As Scholzs popularity with the public wanes, some members would prefer Defense Minister Boris Pistorius to lead the campaign, Bloomberg News reported on Saturday. Scholz is still sticking to his pitch for a renewed candidacy. The SPD and I are prepared to enter into this confrontation, and with the goal to win it, he told journalists in Berlin on Sunday, before departing for the Group of 20 summit in Rio de Janeiro. The Social Democrats currently garner some 16% support in national polls and are in third place behind the Christian Democrats and the right-wing Alternative for Germany. The Greens were at 10% in an INSA report published Saturday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Delegates elected Franziska Brantner and Felix Banaszak as the new co-chairs of the German Green Party at their national party conference in the city of Wiesbaden on Saturday. Brantner, a parliamentary state secretary at the Economy Ministry, gained 78.15% of the vote. Seen as a pragmatist in a party that unites idealists and those favouring more pragmatic approaches, Brantner said Germany needed more investment, amid concerns about the nation's economy. The German government lowered its economic forecast last month, with output set to fall by 0.2% this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Tightening your belt doesn't help if you don't have any trousers," Brantner said in her acceptance speech. Banaszak, from the party's left wing, won 92.88% of the vote. He has been a member of the Bundestag since 2021, where he sits on the economic and budget committees. Both co-chairs are to serve a two-year term. The party also decided by a large majority that work bans for foreigners should be completely abolished and that all those working, training or studying in Germany who have done nothing wrong should have the right to residency. Those who have no right of residence and do not take advantage of the opportunities offered to change lanes into the labour market or other possibilities, meanwhile, must leave Germany. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "But the rule of law must take a hard line, especially with serious criminals or religious extremists," the Greens decided, and: "Our rule of law must exhaust all possibilities to prevent these people from continuing to pose a danger." At the two-day gathering, the party is also expected to agree on German Economy Minister Robert Habeck as its chancellor candidate for the upcoming elections. Germany is gearing up for early elections, expected in February, following the collapse of the government coalition last week. Germany's pro-business Free Democrats withdrew from the coalition after Chancellor Olaf Scholz dismissed party leader Christian Lindner from his post as finance minister following months of wrangling over the 2025 budget. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, Habeck confirmed he plans to run as the Green Party's candidate for chancellor in the elections. "I am running as the Green candidate, for the people in Germany," Habeck said in a video released on social media. Habeck, who also serves as vice chancellor, said last week, "I am ready to offer my experience, my skill and my responsibility - as chancellor, if you want. But that's not my decision; it's your decision." Habeck has been widely expected to run to be the Green Party's candidate since his only serious rival, Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock - who ran as the Green chancellor candidate in the 2021 election - said she would not pursue a candidacy for chancellor in the next election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the end of September, Baerbock told the German broadcaster ARD: "Robert Habeck is the one who will lead us into the federal election campaign." If nominated, Habeck will need to tread a fine line to win over centrist voters without alienating his party base. As economy minister and vice-chancellor, he has negotiated compromises that the left wing of his party has resented, including on tighter migration policies. The Greens currently languish at between 10% and 12% in the polls. Habeck in particular is likely to face resistance due to Germany's poor economic situation, with wrangling over economic policy having triggered the collapse of the coalition. The Chief Minsiter had arrived in Mumbai on Saturday night to campaign in support of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidates on Sunday. The opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition, comprising Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and the Nationalist Congress Party (SCP), seeks to reclaim power in the state, challenging the Mahayuti alliance, which includes Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Ajit Pawar-led NCP. In the 2019 Maharashtra Assembly elections, the BJP won 105 seats, Shiv Sena secured 56, and Congress 44. In 2014, the BJP won 122 seats, Shiv Sena 63, and Congress 42. Earlier, on November 11, CM Dhami addressed a public meeting in Mumbai in a campaign for the BJP candidate from Nalasopara Assembly, Rajan Naik and Sneha Dubey, party candidate from the Vasai Assembly. Speaking at the public meeting, Uttarakhand CM said, "There is a feeling of belongingness in the Sanskrit of the hills. That feeling keeps us together." He said that certainly the blessings of the "god-like people of Uttarakhand" would be given to the BJP candidate. The Chief Minister urged the people to make BJP candidate Rajan Naik from Nalasopara Assembly and BJP candidate Sneha Dubey from Mumbai Vasai victorious with huge votes. He said, "Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the respect of India has increased. Today India is becoming the India that gives direction to the world. Earlier governments were immersed in corruption." CM Pushkar Singh Dhami further said that with their blessings, the public will send the BJP candidates from Nalasopara and Vasai assemblies to the assembly by making them victorious. "We have to keep away from the nepotism party and save them from corruption and appeasement," he said. The Maharashtra assembly elections are scheduled for November 20, with votes for all 288 constituencies to be counted on November 23. (ANI) Germany's Green Party delegates approved by 96.48% Economy Minister Robert Habeck as their chancellor candidate for the upcoming elections at the party's conference on Sunday. Habeck is to lead the election campaign alongside Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock. "We will take on the election!" Habeck declared in his acceptance speech. Shortly before his nomination, Baerbock praised Habeck as "super pragmatic," saying he had maintained Germany's course during times of crisis as economy minister and freed Germany from its dependency on Russia as an energy supplier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Habeck was widely expected to win the nomination as he was not competing against other candidates for votes. Germany is currently preparing for early elections, expected in February, following the collapse of the government coalition last week. Germany's Green Party delegates approved Economy Minister Robert Habeck as their chancellor candidate for the upcoming elections at the party's conference on Sunday. Habeck is to lead the election campaign alongside Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock. "We will take on the election!" Habeck declared in his acceptance speech. Habeck, who is also vice chancellor in Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government, was widely expected to be the party's candidate, after announcing his plans to run last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While he needed to secure the support of delegates at the conference, he was not competing against other candidates for votes. Instead, delegates voted on an urgent motion, submitted by the party's executive board, which referred to Habeck as the "candidate for the people of Germany." Habeck was approved by 96.48% of the delegates, with just 20 (2.6%) voting against him and seven (0.9%) abstaining. Shortly before his nomination, Baerbock praised Habeck as "super pragmatic," saying he had steered Germany through times of crisis as economy minister and freed the country from its dependency on Russia as an energy supplier. "No one can steer the ship in a storm like Robert Habeck and at the same time set the sails properly when the wind is favourable," Baerbock said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the party conference in the western German city of Wiesbaden, Habeck said he was seeking delegates' trust to continue to carry the party forward: "And if it carries us very far, then also into the Chancellery," he added. He expressly thanked Baerbock, with whom he once shared the party leadership: "It is a great privilege to know that you are in front of me, next to me and behind me." Germany is gearing up for early elections, expected in February, following the collapse of the government coalition this month. Germany's pro-business Free Democrats withdrew from the coalition after Scholz dismissed party leader Christian Lindner from his post as finance minister following months of wrangling over the 2025 budget. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Habeck faces a tough election campaign, with the Greens currently languishing on around 11-12% in the polls. In his hour-long acceptance speech after his nomination, Habeck took stock of his time in government, admitting that an unpopular green energy act that he spearheaded last year is hanging over the election campaign "like the sword of Damocles." He said he wants the party to focus on the low unemployment rate among mothers and the restrictive rules for asylum seekers who want to work but cannot. He also spoke of reforming Germany's debt rules and promised affordable electricity prices. The Green Party plans to adopt its election manifesto at another party conference on January 26. Robert Habeck, Germany's Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection and the Greens' lead candidate for the 2025 federal elections, stands next to Annalena Baerbock, German Foreign Minister, at the federal delegates' conference of Alliance 90/The Greens after his election. Michael Kappeler/dpa Germany's Green Party delegates approved Economy Minister Robert Habeck as their chancellor candidate for the upcoming elections at the party's conference on Sunday. Habeck is to lead the election campaign alongside Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock. "We will take on the election!" Habeck declared in his acceptance speech. Habeck, who is also vice chancellor in Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government, was widely expected to be the party's candidate, after announcing his plans to run last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While he needed to secure the support of delegates at the conference, he was not competing against other candidates for votes. Instead, delegates voted on an urgent motion, submitted by the party's executive board, which referred to Habeck as the "candidate for the people of Germany." Habeck was approved by 96.48% of the delegates, with just 20 (2.6%) voting against him and seven (0.9%) abstaining. Shortly before his nomination, Baerbock praised Habeck as "super pragmatic," saying he had steered Germany through times of crisis as economy minister and freed the country from its dependency on Russia as an energy supplier. "No one can steer the ship in a storm like Robert Habeck and at the same time set the sails properly when the wind is favourable," Baerbock said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the party conference in the western German city of Wiesbaden, Habeck said he was seeking delegates' trust to continue to carry the party forward: "And if it carries us very far, then also into the Chancellery," he added. He expressly thanked Baerbock, with whom he once shared the party leadership: "It is a great privilege to know that you are in front of me, next to me and behind me." Germany is gearing up for early elections, expected in February, following the collapse of the government coalition this month. Germany's pro-business Free Democrats withdrew from the coalition after Scholz dismissed party leader Christian Lindner from his post as finance minister following months of wrangling over the 2025 budget. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Habeck faces a tough election campaign, with the Greens currently languishing on around 11-12% in the polls. In his hour-long acceptance speech after his nomination, Habeck took stock of his time in government, admitting that an unpopular green energy act that he spearheaded last year is hanging over the election campaign "like the sword of Damocles." He said he wants the party to focus on the low unemployment rate among mothers and the restrictive rules for asylum seekers who want to work but cannot. He also spoke of reforming Germany's debt rules and promised affordable electricity prices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Green Party plans to adopt its election manifesto at another party conference on January 26. Habeck said later Sunday he would send Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine if elected as chancellor, reversing the current policy. Habeck was asked in an interview with Germany's public broadcaster ARD whether he would go against the current chancellor's decision not to send the long-range missiles to Ukraine. He said that in his capacity as economy minister he had repeatedly decided on arms deliveries. "That was part of my job, and they were some of the hardest decisions I had to make." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeatedly asked his allies for long-range weapons so that the Ukrainian military can attack Russian logistics centres and military bases far behind the front line and within Russian territory. Robert Habeck, Germany's Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection and the Greens' lead candidate for the 2025 federal elections, stands on the stage after his speech at the federal delegates' conference of Alliance 90/The Greens. Michael Kappeler/dpa By Thomas Escritt BERLIN (Reuters) - The new leader of Germany's Greens pitched his party on Sunday as the only one that could save Germany from years of stagnation under a renewed grand coalition and offered the conservative frontrunners cooperation on reforming a totemic spending cap. Robert Habeck, economy minister in Social Democrat Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government which collapsed 10 days ago, was anointed the party's candidate for the Feb. 23 election by 96% of delegates at the national congress in Wiesbaden. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His candidacy means he would be the party's nominee to head the government in the unlikely event the party comes from fourth position in opinion polls to win the election, or could become a senior minister if the Greens became a junior coalition partner. "We Greens want to carry on bearing responsibility," Habeck, a philosopher and novelist, said. "Perhaps even into the Chancellor's office." The speech, stressing a desire to serve, seemed designed to sharpen the contrast between him and Friedrich Merz, the irascible and outburst-prone leader of the conservatives whose 16-point opinion poll lead over Scholz's SPD looks almost unassailable with three months to go. Habeck offered to work with Merz on reforming the constitutionally enshrined spending limit known as the debt brake even before the election: a seemingly generous offer that also picks at ill-concealed divisions between fiscal disciplinarians and bigger spenders in Merz's camp. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement February's federal election comes as fierce competition from China, a new protectionist mood across the Atlantic and years of cumulative underinvestment pitch Europe's largest economy into its deepest crisis in decades. But while voters' mood is anti-incumbent, Habeck and Scholz are betting that Merz's lead is not down to their affection for the arch-conservative. Habeck's pitch seemed tailored to appeal to centrists who voted for the conservatives during the 13 years of Angela Merkel's relatively stable chancellorship but who are put off by Merz's certitudes. "Habeck embodies that calm," said poll expert Thomas Gschwend of Mannheim University. "He is trying to get the old Merkel voters: they don't have anywhere to go at the moment." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Offhand references in his speeches to philosophers like Kant and Hegel recall Merkel letting herself be photographed on holiday reading dense, scholarly tomes in what political analysts said was aimed at reassuring liberal middle class voters that she was a serious thinker they could put their trust in. But it is precisely Merkel's governments' heavy bets on Russian energy that he seeks to repudiate, and not everyone is convinced by his centrism. "His left-green ideology is poison for the economy and a threat to jobs and welfare," said Bijan Djir-Sarai, of the neoliberal Free Democrats, Habeck's erstwhile coalition partner. (Reporting by Thomas Escritt, Reuters TV, Holger Hansen and Alexander Ratz; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise) German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Sunday defended a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin that came in for sharp criticism from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. "It was important to say as well that he (Putin) should not count on the support for Ukraine of Germany, of Europe and of many others in the world declining," Scholz said in Berlin before leaving for the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro. Scholz said that in the call, made on Friday, he had told Putin "that it is now up to him to ensure that the war comes to an end." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The conversation had been announced well in advance, he said. It had been extensive but had also led to the recognition "that not much has changed with the Russian president regarding his views on this war which is not good news," Scholz said. For that reason it was important "that we are extremely clear on the question of principle, that is to say that Ukraine can rely on us, and that the basic principle applies: there will no decision taken over the heads of Ukraine," Scholz said. He expressed the view that it would not be a good idea if in the immediate future there were talks between the US and Russian presidents, while the head of government of an important European country did not himself conduct talks. Scholz appeared to be referring to remarks by US President-elect Donald Trump during his campaign that he would bring the war to an end rapidly by means of a deal with Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scholz took the initiative in phoning Putin on Friday, holding talks with the Russian leader for the first time since December 2022. In the call, he repeated a demand for Russian forces to withdraw and for Moscow to show readiness to hold peace talks. Zelensky expressed outrage at the phone call. "In my opinion, Olaf's call opens Pandora's box," he said in a video message posted on social media platforms. "Now there may be other conversations, other calls ... and that is exactly what Putin has wanted for a long time. It is crucial for him to weaken his international isolation, Russia's isolation," Zelensky said. Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.) credited President-elect Trump for reshaping the government with unexpected cabinet picks during an episode of Cats Roundtable on WABC 770 AM that aired Sunday. Im watching President Trump create the most reform-oriented cabinet in my lifetime, he told John Catsimidis. He added that Trumps nomination of former House Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii), Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) and Fox News host Pete Hegseth would create an amazing team, specifically highlighting the need for a complete overhaul at the Pentagon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its going to take enormous courage and resilience on the part of Pete Hegseth to survive over there because the whole old order is going to try to destroy him, Gingrich warned. Hegseths selection has raised questions from lawmakers about his qualifications, resume and ability to lead the nations defense efforts. But Gingrich believes his unique background would allow him to give the military the restructuring it needs. Ive been actively involved in thinking about and working on defense for an extraordinarily long time. And I can tell you, the building needs a very complete overhaul, Gingrich explained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I had one senior person in the military who retired, who was working with Trump, who said he would recommend the president have every three and four star general retire, he added. And then go down to two stars to pick a whole new generation of leaders. He thinks between Obama and Biden, the whole system has just been undermined and corrupted. The former president is reportedly crafting an executive order that would invoke external reviews of ranking military members that could result in their dismissal. Gingrich highlighted the new political landscape on the horizon as Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) and House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) work alongside the Trump administration with a total majority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He described Thune as a good guy who bridges everybody while acknowledging that Johnson has the hardest job in Washington today. Together, he shared that the three could make much-needed improvements to cities across the country. I think one of Trumps commitments ought to be to try to turn the cities red so that they actually have jobs, have safety and have decent, honest government, Gingrich concluded. Now, thats a pretty good project. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Glenard S. Middleton Sr., a labor leader who was an advocate for blue-collar workers and headed the public service union AFSCME, died of diabetic complications Nov. 7 at a Baltimore assisted living home. He was 76. He and I have been friends since childhood. Glen loved his family, cherished his friends and didnt suffer fools lightly. He constantly defied the limits of others expectations and gave us an example of perseverance that made us all the better for having known him, said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. Glenards tenacious work ethic and sense of fairness led to him becoming a forceful, effective and respected labor leader and civil rights advocate, the congressman said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Friends said he fought to keep Baltimores water supply system staffed by union members when there was a plan to privatize it. He battled cuts in the custodial staff of the school system and also backed the single-member Baltimore City Council districts that exist today. He could walk the halls of Annapolis or the Capitol and communicate the needs of hardworking people in an upbeat, positive, friendly way, Maryland Democratic Party Chair Ken Ulman said. Born in Baltimore and raised in Cherry Hill and Turner Station, he was the son of Lawrence Middleton, a Bethlehem Steel shipyard worker, and his wife, Gladys Partlow Middleton. He was a Dundalk High School graduate. In 1979 he married Sharon Green after meeting her at a Coppin University graduation ceremony at the old Baltimore Civic Center. She now serves on the Baltimore City Council. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr. Middleton was a Baltimore City correctional officer who became active in his union. Mr. Middleton, a former Baltimore jail guard, was elected to the top job with Council 67 in 1987 in an angry, hectic election that had to be resolved by the national union. He was fired from that position by his board in 1991, a decision later overturned by the unions national president, a 1993 Baltimore Sun article said. The day after the boards vote to replace Mr. Middleton with staff representative John H. Carter, a fistfight broke out in the parking lot between members of the two factions. He was a tough, tenacious trade unionist. When you walked down the street in Baltimore with Glen, no matter what neighborhood you were in, folks knew him and would greet him, said Lee Saunders, the national president of AFSCME and a close friend. Related Articles Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you met Glen, you would never forget him. He was a people person. If he met you on the street, hed forever call you by your name. He would take time to listen, said Dorothy Bryant, the union official who succeeded Mr. Middleton. Glen knew the dignity of work, he stood with people for dignity on the job and in our communities. He understood how important it was for everyone to have a seat at the table no matter what your station in life, said Patrick Moran, president of Maryland AFSCME. Survivors include his wife, Sharon Green Middleton; a son, Glenard S. Middleton Jr., of Baltimore; two daughters, Otesa Miles, of Richmond, Virginia, and Anika Middleton, of Baltimore; five grandchildren; and a great-grandson. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Nov. 22 at Empowerment Temple, 4217 Primrose Ave. Have a news tip? Contact Jacques Kelly at jacques.kelly@baltsun.com and 410-332-6570. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) The FBI is looking into a series of racist and offensive text messages and emails and encouraging any recipient to report details to the agency. The agency released a statement about the series of emails and texts Friday. The FBI is aware of the offensive and racist text messages sent to African American and Black communities around the country and is in contact with the Justice Department and other federal authorities on the matter. The reports are not identical and vary in their specific language, but many say the recipient has been selected to pick cotton on a plantation, according to the statement. The text message recipients have now expanded to high school students, as well as both the Hispanic and LGBTQIA+ communities. Some recipients reported being told they were selected for deportation or to report to a re-education camp. The messages have also been reported as being received via e-mail communication. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why are boob lights in so many houses and apartments? The FBI had not received reports of violent acts stemming from the offensive messages and was evaluating all reported incidents, according to the statement. The department said it is working with the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division and sharing information with law enforcement partners, and community, academia, and faith leaders. Diana Brier said she received an anti-gay text on Sunday. Im not surprised that my information is publicly available and that its known that Im a member of the gay community, she said. The text message referred to an executive order, and stated the recipient was required to check in at Nellis Airforce Air Force Base in Las Vegas on Jan. 20, which is Inauguration Day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following check-in, you will be transported to an undisclosed location for LGB re-education camp for a period of no less than 8 weeks, the text stated. Your new president, Donald J. Trump, looks forward to assisting you in becoming a mentally and emotionally stable member of society by eliminating lifestyles that have been detrimental to our American way of life through re-education. At first, I was sort of gobsmacked, Brier told the 8 News Now Investigators. The text also referred to Jesus Christ, an obligation to reproduce, birthing healthy white Christian children, and language against transgenders. There is also a threat included in the text that those unwilling to participate will be put away in a work camp for two years to life. How much does Instacart pay? I became a full-service shopper to find out Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Someone put a lot of thought and effort into this message. It was very detailed. It was very specific and very targeted towards the LGBT community, Brier said. It was just something that, that I think I was just absolutely shocked and frankly repulsed and disgusted that this sort of rhetoric, this hateful speech is being propagated so quickly, so rapidly, and so, so for no reason. The 8 News Now Investigators looked up the phone number and did not find results for a user or owner. It has a 301 area code, which covers Washington, D.C. and parts of Maryland. Brier said she was sharing her story to encourage others to come forward. This is something we need to really get eyes on and really raise awareness and let my community know its safe to let somebody know that youre receiving this, Brier told the 8 News Now Investigators. If youve been on the receiving end of a hateful targeted message, tell someone. We need to be in a see something, say something kind of era. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to encouraging recipients of the messages to report them, the FBI encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report threats of violence or anything considered suspicious. The 8 News Now Investigators also reached out to the Nevada Attorney Generals office. Spokesperson John Sadler said the office has not received any complaints regarding offensive messages targeting the LGBTQ community but did receive several complaints regarding similar messages with racist language. Sadler said anyone who has received one of the messages is encouraged to file a complaint. This type of hate has no place in Nevada, the Attorney Generals office said in a statement. True Nevadans defend their neighbor, regardless of race, sexual orientation, political beliefs, or gender expression. They do not spread messages of hate. To contact the FBI call 1-800-Call-FBI or visit tips.fbi.gov. To contact the Nevada Attorney Generals office, visit https://ag.nv.gov/. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. LONDON (AP) A gold pocket watch given to the ship captain who rescued 700 survivors from the Titanic sold at auction for nearly $2 million, setting a record for memorabilia from the ship wreck. The 18-carat Tiffany & Co. watch was given by three women survivors to Capt. Arthur Rostron for diverting his passenger ship, the RMS Carpathia, to save them and others after the Titanic struck an iceberg and sank in the north Atlantic on its maiden voyage in 1912. Auctioneers Henry Aldridge and Son, who sold the watch to a private collector in the United States on Saturday for 1.56 million British pounds, said its the most paid for a piece of Titanic memorabilia. The price includes taxes and fees paid by the buyer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The watch was given to Rostron by the widow of John Jacob Astor, the richest man to die in the disaster, and the widows of two other wealthy businessmen who went down with the ship. Astor's pocket watch, which was on his body when it was recovered seven days after the ship sank, had previously set the record for the highest price paid for a Titanic keepsake, fetching nearly $1.5 million (1.17 million pounds) from the same auction house in April. Auctioneer Andrew Aldridge said the fact that Titanic memorabilia has set two records this year demonstrates the enduring fascination with the story and the value of the dwindling supply and high demand for ship artifacts. Every man, woman and child had a story to tell, and those stories are told over a century later through the memorabilia," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rostron was hailed a hero for his actions the night the Titanic sank and his crew was recognized for their bravery. The Carpathia was sailing from New York to the Mediterranean Sea when a radio operator heard a distress call from the Titanic in the early hours of April 15, 1912 and woke Rostron in his cabin. He turned his boat around and headed at full steam toward the doomed vessel, navigating through ice bergs to get there. By the time the Carpathia arrived, the Titanic had sunk and 1,500 people perished. But the crew located 20 lifeboats and rescued more than 700 passengers and took them back to New York. Rostron was awarded the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal by President William Howard Taft and was later knighted by King George V. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Madeleine Astor, who had been helped into a lifeboat by her husband, presented the watch to Rostron at a luncheon at her mansion on Fifth Avenue in New York. The inscription says it was given with the heartfelt gratitude and appreciation of three survivors. It lists Mrs. John B. Thayer and Mrs. George D. Widener alongside Astor's married name. It was presented principally in gratitude for Rostrons bravery in saving those lives, Aldridge said. "Without Mr. Rostron, those 700 people wouldnt have made it. A gold pocket watch given to the ship captain who rescued 700 survivors from the Titanic sold at auction for nearly $2 million, setting a record for memorabilia from the ship wreck. The 18-carat Tiffany & Co. watch was given by three women survivors to Capt. Arthur Rostron for diverting his passenger ship, the RMS Carpathia, to save them and others after the Titanic struck an iceberg and sank in the north Atlantic on its maiden voyage in 1912.: Auctioneers Henry Aldridge and Son, who sold the watch to a private collector in the United States on Saturday for 1.56 million British pounds, said its the most paid for a piece of Titanic memorabilia. The price includes taxes and fees paid by the buyer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The watch was given to Rostron by the widow of John Jacob Astor, the richest man to die in the disaster, and the widows of two other wealthy businessmen who went down with the ship. This undated photo made available by Henry Aldridge and Son shows a gold pocket watch that was given to Capt. Arthur Rostron, captain of RMS Carpathia that rescued 700 survivors of the Titanic. The watch sold at auction on Saturday Nov. 16, 2024 for nearly $2 million. (Andrew Aldridge/Henry Aldridge and Son via AP) Astors pocket watch, which was on his body when it was recovered seven days after the ship sank, had previously set the record for the highest price paid for a Titanic keepsake, fetching nearly $1.5 million (1.17 million pounds) from the same auction house in April. Auctioneer Andrew Aldridge said the fact that Titanic memorabilia has set two records this year demonstrates the enduring fascination with the story and the value of the dwindling supply and high demand for ship artifacts. Every man, woman and child had a story to tell, and those stories are told over a century later through the memorabilia, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rostron was hailed a hero for his actions the night the Titanic sank and his crew was recognized for their bravery. The Carpathia was sailing from New York to the Mediterranean Sea when a radio operator heard a distress call from the Titanic in the early hours of April 15, 1912 and woke Rostron in his cabin. He turned his boat around and headed at full steam toward the doomed vessel, navigating through ice bergs to get there. By the time the Carpathia arrived, the Titanic had sunk and 1,500 people perished. But the crew located 20 lifeboats and rescued more than 700 passengers and took them back to New York. Rostron was awarded the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal by President William Howard Taft and was later knighted by King George V. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Madeleine Astor, who had been helped into a lifeboat by her husband, presented the watch to Rostron at a luncheon at her mansion on Fifth Avenue in New York. The inscription says it was given with the heartfelt gratitude and appreciation of three survivors. It lists Mrs. John B. Thayer and Mrs. George D. Widener alongside Astors married name. It was presented principally in gratitude for Rostrons bravery in saving those lives, Aldridge said. Without Mr. Rostron, those 700 people wouldnt have made it. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. BJP leader Kirit Somaiya on Sunday asserted that the District Election Officer of Parbhani district has started its investigation into the alleged divisive remarks by Maulana Khalilur Rehman Sajjad Nomani and suggested that the report may come by this evening. BJP Leader Somaiya had filed a complaint against Maulana Khalilur Rehman Sajjad Nomani for his alleged divisive remarks with the officials of Maharashtra Election Commission. Speaking to ANI on the issue, Somaiya said, "Maulana Khalilur Rehman Sajjad Nomani had given a statement that social boycott of those who support BJP is vote jihad. Regarding the complaint, I had made, the officials of Maharashtra Election Commission have given this information. The District Election Officer of Parbhani district has started its investigation. It is hoped that the report will also be ready by this evening." Lashing out at the NCP-SCP chief Sharad Pawar and the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance, Kirit Somaiya accused them of extending their support to the All India Ulema Board and accepting their demands of 10 percent reservation and a ban on RSS. He said, "...Does Sharad Pawar feel ashamed or is he scared to speak about Hindus? ...No one makes statements like Maulana Khalilur Rahman Sajjad Nomani, that if any Hindu votes against the BJP, then socially boycott them and name them Abdul Rehman. This kind of language does not exist in Hindutva. Sharad Pawar Sahab, you extended your support to the All India Ulema Board. Sharad Pawar and the Congress supported the Marathi Muslim Seva Sangh. Sharad Pawar and MVA accepted their demands to ban RSS and give 10 percent reservation. Sharad Pawar spread things like vote jihad. The family of Rahul Gandhi, Salman Khurshid spread vote jihad...They should feel ashamed" BJP leader also took a jibe at the Shiv Sena UBT and its leaders Uddhav Thackeray and Sanjay Raut, saying that they should stop their drama, as the Election Commission is checking everyone's bag, whether Home Minister Amit Shah or Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. "Uddhav Thackeray's situation has worsened, they (Uddhav Thackeray and Sanjay Raut) created a lot of drama and abused the Election Commission. They said the EC checked their bag, now the Election Commission says they check everyone's bag, whether it is Home Minister Amit Shah, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, or Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Uddhav Thackeray should stop this drama," Somaiya said. Earlier on Saturday, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis lashed out at Maulana Khalilur Rehman Sajjad Nomani for his alleged divisive remarks and accused the Congress and its allies of using polarisation tactics to gain votes ahead of the elections. Speaking in Nagpur, Fadnavis said, "In the video that has come out, he is calling to find and boycott those who supported BJP in the Lok Sabha elections. He further calls for vote jihad and says that our leaders for vote jihad are Sharad Pawar, Uddhav Thackeray, and Rahul Gandhi. What kind of politics is going on? We have never seen this kind of polarization in politics before. Congress and its allies, due to the panic of defeat, are trying to bring forward such ideas that divide the society and the country." The 288 Maharashtra Assembly elections will be held in a single phase on November 20, with the vote count happening on November 23. Campaigning has intensified for the 288 assembly seats in Maharashtra with both the ruling Mahayuti and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) making efforts to woo the electorate. (ANI) Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas) said Sunday that targeting others besides convicted criminals for deportation means government has failed us. You know, if were going after the guy thats picking tomatoes or the nurse at the local hospital and were not going after the convicted criminal, then our government has failed us, Gonzales told ABC Newss Martha Raddatz on This Week. President-elect Trump, a member of Gonzaless party, pushed a mass deportation plan throughout his bid for the presidency this year. He promoted a Day 1 agenda mostly centered on border and immigration crackdowns. At a previous rally the president-elect said, On Day 1, I will launch the largest deportation program in American history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You know, our country was built on those fleeing persecution, and it would be, it would be just absolutely terrible if we dont protect those that are doing it the right way, Gonzales said. Legal immigration should never be mixed with these hardened criminals. Last week, in response to a question from journalist Cecilia Vega on CBSs 60 Minutes about the possibility of going forward with mass deportation without separating families, Tom Homan, Trumps pick for border czar in his upcoming administration, said that possibility existed and that families can be deported together. Homan later said in an interview this month that U.S. citizens and legal immigrants are perfectly safe, for Gods sake. Trump has said that mass deportations will be aimed at people in the U.S. illegally, chiefly those with a criminal record. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the message is, Were here to deport your abuelita, thats not gonna work well, Gonzales said Sunday, using the Spanish word for grandmother. The Hill has reached out to the Trump transition team for comment. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Nov. 17Republican legislators from Northwest Montana are expressing dismay over the approval of a ballot initiative that codifies the right to an abortion in the state constitution but submit there's little recourse available to alter the outcome aside from a federal ban. The measure, CI-128, garnered the support of 58% of voters statewide in the Nov. 5 election with 344,410 ballots in favor and 251,846 against it. The ballot initiative enshrines a state Supreme Court ruling that determined the right to privacy protects the right to an abortion. Elizabeth Hubble, the director of the women's, gender and sexuality studies program at the University of Montana, said the broad support for the initiative in a Republican-majority state "shows that people who hold very conservative beliefs still understand the importance of health care." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The protection, according to Hubble, will make it difficult for anti-abortion legislation to pass on a state level. Rep. Amy Regier, R-Kalispell, who has been an anti-abortion advocate throughout her political career, described the outcome as disappointing. "There was a lot of false messaging as far as those wanting a yes vote," she said. "The idea that people want government out of health care decisions, well the government regulates all sort of health care decisions." The initiative, per the ballot language, "would amend the Montana Constitution to expressly provide a right to make and carry out decisions about one's own pregnancy, including the right to abortion." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It prohibits government from denying an abortion before fetal viability or an abortion done "to protect the pregnant patient's life or health." It also prevents the government from penalizing patients, health care providers or others who assist someone in "exercising their right to make and carry out voluntary decisions about their pregnancy." Sen. John Fuller, R-Kalispell, feels the measure's language about providers gives immunity to "so-called health care professionals." More than 250 physicians statewide endorsed the initiative ahead of the election. Like Fuller, Sen. Carl Glimm, R-Kila, said the initiative was too broad, poorly defined and lacked restrictions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I think that the language in it wasn't very good, and it will go much further than anyone anticipated," said Glimm, predicting that the state judiciary could use the protections under CI-128 and expand them beyond standard reproductive health care. Heading into the 2025 legislative session, Regier wants to bring forward an educational component in response to CI-128, whether that be pre-procedure acknowledgements or education about fetal development. Generally, health professionals say fetal viability starts between 20 and 25 weeks. Most abortions nationwide occur in the first trimester before 13 weeks. Rep. Courtenay Sprunger, R-Kalispell, plans to file a "fatherhood at conception" bill. The act would adjust child support responsibilities to begin at conception if there is no question of paternity, but the specifics are still being ironed out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The general premise is just the idea that I want to see both men and women held equally accountable for the life that they've created," Sprunger said. With legislation specifically targeting access to abortion now unconstitutional, Fuller suggested there may be other avenues to push forward the anti-abortion agenda. "When it comes to legislation regarding a constitutional amendment, there isn't much a legislator can do," said Fuller. "That needs to be litigated at the federal level, but of course that's not my role." He holds hope that CI-128 is deemed as unconstitutional under the U.S. Constitution's 14th Amendment because it "denies due process to the child that is unborn." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CI-128 ORGANIZERS collected over 117,000 signatures qualifying the initiative for the ballot, far exceeding the 60,000 signatures required. Montanans Securing Reproductive Rights, the group behind the initiative, then raised nearly $12 million to support the measure, according to OpenSecrets, compared to just over $100,000 raised by groups against it. Conservative leaning Flathead County was less supportive of the measure with roughly 31,000 both in favor and against. As of Wednesday, Flathead County voters placed just 61 more votes against the ballot measure than in support of it. "The Flathead Valley is a great conservative stronghold," Glimm said regarding the result. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Similarly, in the 2022 election, the Born Alive Infant Protection Act which would have required medical providers to give life-saving care to infants at any stage of development failed by 6% of votes statewide. Voters in Flathead County voted for the initiative by 6%. Measures on abortion access were decided by voters in nine other states this election as well. Out of 10 states, only three failed to pass protections, leaving strict bans in place. The election came more than two years after the reversal of Roe v. Wade, ending the constitutional right to an abortion and handing the decision to individual states. President-elect Donald Trump indicated on the campaign trail that a federal abortion ban is off the table. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm not in favor of an abortion ban, but it doesn't matter because this issue has now been taken over by the states," Trump said during a debate with Vice President Kamala Harris. Reporter Kate Heston can be reached at kheston@dailyinterlake.com or 758-4459. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Mediations between the Greater Albany School District and teachers union continued Sunday after the district reported significant movement towards an agreement in Saturdays bargaining session. Late Sunday night, the district announced theres been more progress but still no deal. Mediation adjourned for the night around 9 p.m., and the mediator suspend bargaining on Monday to enable both parties to review exchanged documents. Earlier in the day, parents held a rally in support of the striking teachers. Parents held a rally for striking Albany, Oregon teachers, November 17, 2024 (Rachel Gumpert) Hundreds of teachers from Greater Albany Public Schools went on strike last Tuesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oregon considers delaying rule limiting heavy-duty truck sales In the first strike in the district since 1987, it followed nine months of negotiations in which the teachers asked for better pay, school safety, caps on class sizes and more. As a a result, classes at all Greater Albany Public Schools were canceled for the rest of the week. Both parties returned to the bargaining table Wednesday, but the union claimed the district had refused to make a single proposal, counter, or agreement themselves for the entire 14 hours. What Oregons bird flu case means for your Thanksgiving turkey This prompted a march across downtown Albany early Thursday afternoon, which included hundreds of teachers, parents and students, ending in a rally outside the district office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once again, both parties returned to the bargaining table on Friday, and according to the district, they appreciate[d] GAEAs movement and progress toward an agreement. The district added that at Saturdays bargaining session, 21 of 34 articles presented by the union were tentatively agreed on. However, the district noted both groups will continue to work on Sunday to address issues related to caps on class size, adequate prep, as well as a class size adjustment fund. Classes are canceled for Monday. Stay with KOIN 6 News as we continue to follow this story. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. FLATWOODS Christmas Eve 1944 was a dark day for the 66th Infantry Division of the U.S. Army. At 99 years old, Jerry Carroll says his memory is fuzzy. But he vividly recalls the enemy attacking the SS Leopoldville on Dec. 24 80 years ago. Thats the part thats hard to deal with, said the World War II veteran. They loaded the majority of the troops on (Leopoldville) and as it was going into the harbor on Cherbourg, France, the Germans torpedoed the ship and sunk it. I had some really good friends and buddies that didnt make it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The division was going across (the English Channel) in the cover of darkness we wasnt allowed no light whatsoever, Carroll said. That still didnt stop that ship from being sunk. Fourteen officers and 748 servicemen died as a result. Carroll was aboard the HMS Cheshire. Only about 66,000 of the 16.4 million Americans who served in World War II are still alive, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The Flatwoods resident is one. Gunner from Grahn A Grahn, Carter County, native, Ercel Jerry Carroll joined the Army in 1943. The 18-year-old took basic training at Camp Blanding in Florida, and eventually reported to Camp Rucker, Alabama. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Private First Class Carroll became a machine gunner. When we move from place to place, the gunners had machine guns mounted on jeeps, Carroll recollected. The gunner had to be with that jeep, riding that jeep, and be prepared for if you need to use a gun. The 66th Division boarded a ship in New York on the day before Thanksgiving 1944, Carroll said, and traveled to Southampton, England. From Southampton to Cherbourg they went. Survivors from HMS Cheshire journeyed northbound through France. The division dissolved because of mass casualties. Us guys that made it, we were just sent here and there and whatever, Carroll said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was part of a group of troops that ended up in the Lorraine region of France. They had a division up there guarding, more or less, holding German prisoners, he said. They pulled that division out, sent them up to Belgium. Thats when the Germans made their last big drive they thought they were going to win the war, I guess, old Hitler did. The 66th Division survivors replaced that division in handling the duties of guarding the prisoners. Carroll and one of his friends were eventually called to Marseille, France, where they had an easy job, he said with a chuckle. Them prisoners down there were doing work and we were doing nothing but guarding them, Carroll said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The war ended in 1945. The Germans surrendered to the Allies on May 7 of that year. The Japanese surrendered on Sept. 2, 1945. By May 1946, Carroll was discharged. We got off the boat in New York, they put a bunch of us on a train and sent us back to Camp Atterbury, Indiana, Carroll said. I got my little pay day and came home. Back in the States Carroll said his return to America was welcoming yet challenging. It was good to be back home, with family and friends and everything, but it was a lot different, Carroll said. Youve gotta make a lot of adjustments. Youve gotta try to get a job and make a new living. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carroll purchased a pickup truck with a few dollars saved up and became a transporter of just about anything, he said with a smile. I done a little hauling, coal, anything anybody wanted me to haul, I did that for a while, he said. By 1948, the 23-year-old found firm footing in life meeting the woman of his dreams and landing a job on the railroad. I had some friends on the railroad who helped me get a job, he said. In the meantime, while I was trying to get a job and everything, I met this lady. You know what happened then! Jerry Carroll married Bernadean Roar Carroll in March 1948. Bernadean had a 6-year-old son Teddy Ray from a previous marriage. She was unable to have any more children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I knew she couldnt have any more kids unless a miracle happened; I accepted that, Carroll said. Railroad jobs were inconsistent, but he stuck with it. You might work a week and then laid off a week or two, he said. The older guys would say they would do that testing you. Aint got much choice really, couldnt get a job someplace else. The Carrolls lived near Big Lost Creek Road and Route 1 in Oldtown before they moved or, as Carroll put it, went to housekeepin to Wurtland. Jerry Carroll put in 38 years on the railroad, retiring in 1986. A promise kept Jerry and Bernadeans son worked for General Motors in Pontiac, Michigan. Teddy Ray and his wife, Kaye, had five children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Carrolls moved from Kentucky to Michigan to be close to their grandchildren. They lived there for 19 years until Bernadean began experiencing symptoms of Alzheimers. Things was good for us until she got that old bad guy Alzheimers, Carroll said. She wanted to come back home. Granting his wifes wishes, Jerry and Bernadean returned to Kentucky, getting a home on Indian Run Road in Flatwoods. Well, when we came back home, she didnt recognize anything, Jerry Carroll said. Bernadean died on Jan. 17, 2009. Before she passed away, she made Jerry promise her he would not go back to Michigan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That was Alzheimers talking, he said. She loved them grandkids and the whole family. Ted and Kaye tried to talk him into returning to Pontiac, but Jerry couldnt do it. I thought about it, but then, do I break my promise to her? You hate to go back on your promise, Carroll said. Birthday visit Born on Nov. 10, 1925, Carroll is a 99-year-old man who lives alone, keeps a neat home in Flatwoods and still drives albeit seldom. Jerry and his sister, Christine Mosier, are the last two of seven Carroll siblings who are living. Mosier and her daughter, Connie Fife Jerrys niece reside in Olive Hill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They stop in and see him from time to time. This past Sunday, two of his five grandchildren Amanda Gail and Terry Wayne paid the birthday boy a visit. It was a good visit, Carroll said with joyous laughter. The other three grandchildren are Jerry Dean, Buffy and Teddy Ray II. He has 10 great-grandchildren. Teddy Ray Sr. died in 2020, Carroll said, and his wife, Kaye, died about a year and a half later. Fife calls her uncle daily. I could listen to him all day, Fife said. Hes an amazing person all around. I cant tell you anything negative that anyone has ever said about him. As for that fuzzy memory, Fife calls his bluff. Hes sharp as a tack, she said. I couldnt be prouder of him, not just for what he did in the military, but for everything. Carroll accepted a Carter County Quilt of Valor several years ago. He keeps it on his bed. 99 and counting Jerry Carroll credits good doctors and nurses, and the Good Lord for blessing him with such a long life. He also takes 2,000 milligrams of fish oil a day. Carroll accepted Christ in the mid-1980s. He hasnt smoked a cigarette or had a sip of alcohol since. Carroll had a scare several years when his blood pressure hit dangerous levels. They couldnt believe I didnt have a stroke or heart attack, either one, he said. Thats where Dr. Rhodes came in. He was referring to Dr. Charles Rhodes, whom he saw on Veterans Day. I thank the Lord every day for good doctors and nurses, plus what He does for us, Carroll said. German Economy Minister Robert Habeck, who is running as the Green Party's chancellor candidate in the upcoming elections, said on Sunday he would send Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine if elected as chancellor. Habeck, who also serves as the sitting vice chancellor in Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government, was asked in an interview with Germany's public broadcaster ARD whether he would go against the current chancellor's decision not to send the long-range missiles to Ukraine. He said that in his capacity as economy minister he had repeatedly decided on arms deliveries. "That was part of my job, and they were some of the hardest decisions I had to make." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeatedly asked his allies for long-range weapons so that the Ukrainian military can attack Russian logistics centres and military bases far behind the front line and within Russian territory. Scholz justifies his decision not to supply Taurus cruise missiles on several grounds, including that they would enable Ukraine to also hit targets in the Russian capital Moscow. When an overwhelmed man came to a New Hampshire animal shelter last week hoping to surrender 150 mice, shelter employees were ready to assist. But now, the shelter is facing an enormous breeding problem, the director said because the man didnt have just 150 mice. He had 150 containers of mice. When he first arrived, he said he had 150 mice, said Lisa Dennison, executive director of the New Hampshire Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The man later clarified that he had 150 tanks with mice in them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The situation has spiraled out of control due to rapid breeding, creating a substantial problem for the homeowner and the local shelter. The breeding of the mice has just created this enormous problem for him, Dennison told CNN on Sunday. The man brought three large plastic tubs containing 73 mice to the shelter last Monday, overwhelmed by the sheer number of mice in his possession, NHSPCA said in a news release. As the week progressed, NHSPCA staff continued to make trips to his home, filling vans with additional tubs of mice. The shelter now has nearly 1,000 mice. The mice were living in filthy plastic tubs that hadnt been cleaned in what appeared to be a long time, the SPCA said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have never seen anything like this. And the longer we wait to get all of the mice out of their terrible living conditions, the greater the likelihood is that the numbers will continue to grow, said Savannah Alcero, director of animal and veterinary services at the SPCA. With a gestation period of just around 20 days, mice can reproduce at an alarming rate. Staff and volunteers attend to surrendered pet mice at the New Hampshire SPCA. - Charles Krupa/AP Adoption coordinator Lexi Giannopoulos cradles one of nearly 1,000 mice that were surrendered in Stratham, New Hampshire. - Charles Krupa/AP Dennison, seated with stacks of containers filled with mice behind her, is working to care for the mice, find them permanent homes, and prevent further breeding. We were separating the males and females, she said. And now we have many females on pregnancy watch because they breed rapidly. So far, 18 mice have been adopted, and many others have been sent to regional welfare organizations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elisha Murray adopted four females named Kelly, Dee, Maxine, and Eleven, despite having told her children last week, No more rodents, The Associated Press reported. Weve always had small rodents as pets rats, mice, hamsters, the whole nine so I just figured I could help out, she said. We have the whole setup, everything I need at home already, so I figured, what the hell. That is just the tip of the iceberg, Dennison said as she appealed to the public for help. Many of the mice have been given names, such as Doug, Daryl, Dude, and Deputy, while others are named after candies like M&M. Help these mice find wonderful new homes. They are great fun, Dennison urged. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com HARLEM, Manhattan (PIX11) In a powerful display of community spirit, Harlem residents came together on Saturday to restore and beautify Malcolm X Plaza, a significant landmark in their neighborhood. The initiative, organized in collaboration with Central Park Conservancy and Masjid Malcolm Shabazz, saw local leaders, volunteers, and youth working side by side to transform the public space. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Einnova Watson, an 18-year-old resident of Harlem and member of the Second Canaan Baptist Church, was among the participants. Think about it as if its your home. You wouldnt litter in your home, Watson said, emphasizing the importance of community pride. Throughout the day, volunteers engaged in various activities to enhance the plazas appearance. Watson described her contribution: Weve been planting around different garnishes and different vegetables. State Sen. Cordell Cleare, a key figure in organizing the event, stressed the historical significance of the plaza. Malcolm X Plaza is a significant piece of our community and its a representative of one of the greatest leaders, she stated. Cleare also highlighted the challenges faced by the neighborhood, saying, Historically Harlem has suffered a lot of neglect. This is the entrance to Harlem. This is our front door. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cleanup effort addressed recent difficulties, including pandemic-related issues, while emphasizing the importance of community appearance. People treat you how you look often and that goes for neighborhoods too, Cleare noted, underlining the impact of a well-maintained public space on community perception and pride. Kenneth L. Simmons Sr., a member of Malcolm Shabazz, echoed this sentiment with a call to action: Dont do our neighborhood dirty, support our neighborhood, clean one piece at a time. As Harlem continues to thrive through community efforts like this cleanup at Malcolm X Plaza, young participants like Watson stand out in their commitment to making their neighborhood a better place for everyone. Watson summed up the spirit of the day, saying, Everybody deserves to come together in unity and fellowship and be together as one. The organizations involved plan to host more community cleanups in the future. For those interested in participating or seeking more information, click here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. An amended solar law, as well as amendments to an energy storage batteries law, were both passed in 3-2 votes at Hartlands regular board meeting this week. Councilmen David Huntington and Joseph Reed were the dissenting votes. In a review of the action, Supervisor Margaret Zaepfel justified the law, saying that its passage is the will of the majority in Hartland. The amended law enacts significantly more stringent laws to replace regulations passed by the previous town board under former supervisor Ross Annables administration. Today we voted on the current solar law. We have listened and considered all divisions on this important law. The four board members were presented with over 365 signed petitions from the townspeople opposing the industrial solar project. In 2022 the town sent out a survey to ask the opinion of the towns residents. The results were approximately 75% against the project, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Zaepfel, discussions on the law over the last year were peoples panels and shouldnt be confused with an independent committee. She said that five meetings were held and the same 10 or so people came into the meetings and most were for the Ridge View Solar Project. One such resident is Floyd Snyder, who has agreed to lease some of his land to the project. He said that the board brushed aside his and others opinions on the matter. We had meetings, not many people came to them, Snyder said. We recommended to leave the solar law alone, but they knew what they were going to do. Currently, EDF, the solar company that proposed the Ridge View Solar Project, has not made an application to pursue the project through the New York State Office of Renewable Energy Siting or ORES. Zaepfel said it was withdrawn by EDF and that conversations probably wont begin again until next year with the company on the proposed project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kevin Campbell, development director for EDF, said that the reason for the lack of an application was that the company still needed to find landowners willing to connect the panels to the interconnection site. Weve been here since 2019, we signed 4,000 acres of land. Of that 4,000 acres, we used 1,800 for siting the panels themselves, and then, because the project is spread out, we have to sign easements so all those lines can get to our point of interconnection. We have 60% of that land signed up, he said. Campbell went on to say that the next opportunity to apply is in 2026 and the earliest that the interconnection is available is in 2029. Haley Ferington, EDF community relations manager, said that gave the company and the community time to continue to have these discussions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Payments by EDF if the project is sited and operational is $790,000 a year to Hartland, 150% of what the town now collects in property taxes. Approximately $360,000 a year will go to the Barker Central School District, $210,000 a year to the Roy-Hart Central School District, $260,000 a year to Niagara County and $278,000 a year to special district taxes. Hawaii Governor Josh Green joins Rev. Al Sharpton to discuss RFK Jr. being picked as Health and Human Services Secretary by President-Elect Donald Trump, and how it will huge impact on people. The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has extended heartfelt congratulations to Azerbaijan on the occasion of National Revival Day, celebrated on November 17, Azernews reports. In a statement shared on this historic day, the Ministry emphasized the significance of National Revival Day as a pivotal moment in Azerbaijans 36-year-long journey toward independence. We wholeheartedly congratulate Azerbaijan on National Revival Day, a turning point in the independence movement it began 36 years ago, the message read. The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs also celebrated Azerbaijans recent victory in the Second Garabagh War, which led to the liberation of the occupied territories. "We once again celebrate the triumph of our Azerbaijani brothers, who ended the occupation of their lands with the same spirit and determination," the statement continued. National Revival Day marks a key milestone in Azerbaijans struggle for independence and sovereignty, a movement that gained momentum during the late 20th century. The day commemorates the efforts of the Azerbaijani people to reclaim their national identity and achieve full independence, culminating in the restoration of Azerbaijan's sovereignty. Union Minister G Kishan Reddy visited Musi slums in Hyderabad and spent a night there with the locals. Speaking about his experience, Reddy said that the Telangana government was trying to break the house of the people. "The CM was saying that these people do not have proper houses to stay in and are living in houses full of mosquitoes and in unhygienic places. I have been staying with these people in the Musi catchment area for the last 15 hours. These people have been living here since a very long time, and not even a single one of the families here is ready to leave their homes. They have drainage facilities, proper water facilities, Aadhar cards, ration and after all this if the Telangana government is trying to break their homes, then it is wrong," Reddy said. Further, the Union Minister said Congress had given 6 guarantees and 420 sub guarantees but could not achieve anything and could only talk big. "The people here are ready to save their homes no matter what the situation is. They will not let the government run their bulldozers here. They should build a retaining wall here, it can be done in less money and the government can fulfill the expectations of the poor. Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi had given 6 guarantees and 420 sub guarantees. They have not even accomplished them. They don't have money. They can only talk and not do anything," he further added. Additionally, as a part of Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) 'Musi Nidra' program, Malkajgiri Parliament member Eatala Rajender visited the New Maruti and Nagar Satya Nagar colonies early morning to meet the people residing near the Musi Catchment area, as per a press release. Rajender stayed overnight in Phanigiri Colony and accepted Chief Minister Revanth Reddy's challenge to stay near Musi River catchment area. Eatala Rajender and other leaders visited areas near Musi catchment areas and had breakfast with colony residents this morning. The Musi slum is a geographical region where water drains into the Musi river, heavily dumped with untreated sewage and waste. The settlements on the riverbank have also contributed to the river pollution. People living in the Musli slums face significant health risks due to contaminated water and poor sanitation. (ANI) HONOLULU (KHON2) It has almost been one week since 31-year-old Hannah Kobayashi disappeared in California. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHONs morning podcast, every morning at 8 Los Angeles Police Department Missing Persons confirmed on Friday, Nov. 15 that Hannah is listed as a missing person. Some family members are on the ground in hopes of finding her. Hannahs aunt drove six hours from Big Sur to Los Angeles to try and help find her niece. Airport authorities released a photo that was taken before Hannah was supposed to get on her connecting flight to New York on Friday, Nov. 8. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hawaii woman apparently goes missing in California: We cant locate her The LAPDX have been helpful. They have been trying to find CCTV footage. We got that picture of her de-boarding the plane, said Larie Pidgeon. Hannahs family said her texts seemed to change tone before they stopped completely and a strange post on her Instagram on Sunday, Nov. 10 with LeBron James and Nike logos was discovered to be from an event at The Grove. They searched the internet for any video taken by attendees and found a short clip that showed Hannah walking with headphones on. We are 100% positive. And as of today, we spoke with that videographer who made that video and got a timestamp that she was here at the Grove at 3:40 p.m. on Sunday, Pidgeon said. This is going on six days that we have not seen her and her phone has been off for six days! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hannah is sweet and loving and kind, and she wouldnt make any of us worry. Larie Pidgeon, Hannah Kobayashis aunt Hannahs dad and another aunt are also in California to find her while Hannahs older sister will fly out on Saturday, Nov. 16 to help as well. Hannahs mom will remain in Hawaii with Hannahs baby sister, Hope. We have like an unwritten rule that we always check in no matter if its me, Syd, Hope, Hannah, we, its like, Okay, Im here and Im safe, said Hannahs mom, Brandi Kobayashi. Its not a normal behavior of hers to just disappear or to have something so planned out, because when she has her mind set on something as far as traveling, said Hannahs older sister, Sydni Kobayashi. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Become hell or high water, shes there, Brandi said. And that is why we are so grateful for the news outlets, for the media, for everyone covering this and trying to help us find our missing niece, daughter, sister, Pidgeon said. Check out more news from around Hawaii Hannahs phone was last located at the Los Angeles International Airport on Monday, Nov. 11. Anyone who has seen her or has any information about her whereabouts is asked to call LAPD. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. Six people died in a road accident near the western German town of Ochtrup in the early hours of Sunday, police in the town near the Dutch border reported. The collision occurred when a vehicle skidded into the path of oncoming traffic, hitting another vehicle head-on near a railway crossing, police said. One vehicle carrying two people caught alight and burnt out, killing both the driver and passenger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All four people in the other vehicle were also killed, the police report said. A police spokeswoman said identification of the victims was proceeding, with a specialist team deployed to the site of the accident to ascertain the precise course of events. The pain Im left with is insurmountable, said Jessica Castaneda, the older sister of Victor Enrique Castaneda Jr. GoFundMe Victor Enrique Castaneda Jr. Victor Enrique Castaneda Jr. The person whose head washed ashore at a popular South Florida tourist beach has been identified as a teenager who disappeared after saving his older sister from drowning. Victor Enrique Castaneda Jr., 19, and his sister, Jessica Castaneda, were last seen going into the ocean at South Point Beach in the early evening of Saturday, Nov. 9, when they were overtaken by a rip current, the Miami Herald previously reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, Nov. 12, after three days of unsuccessful searches for the missing teen, a beach worker in Key Biscayne, made a grim discovery, stumbling upon a head that had washed ashore, the Miami-Dade Police Department confirmed to PEOPLE. Now, the mystery of the human head has been solved. On Friday, Nov. 15, police identified the head as Castanedas, according to reports from CBS News, NBC News and the Miami Herald. WTVJ Officials investigate after human head washed ashore in Key Biscayne, Fla., on Nov. 12, 2024 Officials investigate after human head washed ashore in Key Biscayne, Fla., on Nov. 12, 2024 The Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner also confirmed that remains found on Tuesday near Key Biscayne belonged to Castaneda, according to the Miami Herald and NBC News. The Miami Beach Police Department extends prayers and condolences to the family, said Cmdr. Shantell Mitchell, a spokeswoman for the department, the Miami Herald reported. Our victim advocates will continue to provide support to the family during this time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Miami Beach Police Department did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment. A cause and manner of death for the teen have not been released, but there is currently nothing to indicate foul play, a spokesperson for the police told NBC News. An investigation is ongoing. Last week, before the head was identified, Det. Andre Martin with the Miami-Dade Police Department told PEOPLE that the case was not being investigated as a homicide. "At this point we're not discounting any possibility, he told PEOPLE. This could be an accident or missing person, its too early to tell the circumstances. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. After Castaneda and his sister were overtaken by a rip current, good samaritans were able to rescue his sister but could not find the teen, local TV station WTVJ reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Castanedas older sister Jessica later recalled to the outlet that her siblings had just gotten in the water when it began getting dark and they got overtaken. They became distressed and yelling for help," she told WTVJ. Before he was submerged, he threw my sister, because he told her they were gonna die, and he threw her, and that was the last she saw of him, she added of Castaneda, who she said died a hero. In a Nov. 12 Facebook tribute, Jessica wrote that her brothers absence will never be accepted. The pain Im left with is insurmountable, she wrote alongside photos of the late teen. My heart is completely and irreparably shattered. Your absence will never be accepted. No words could ever describe how much I love you Victor. To the top of the highest mountain and to the depths deeper than the titanic, I love you little brother. I love you so much. I will miss you every second of every minute of every single day for the rest of my life, she concluded. I will dream of your smile and your infectious laugh until I find you in the next life, in every life I will find you. . Pete Hegseth, Donald Trump's pick for defense secretary, paid a woman who accused him of sexual assault in 2017 as part of a settlement agreement, an attorney for Hegseth said in a statement on Saturday. Tim Parlatore, a lawyer for the former Fox News star, said in the statement that Hegseth settled in December 2020 only because he feared his career would suffer if her allegations were made public. Parlatore said Hegseth was the victim of "blackmail" and "false claims of sexual assault" by an unidentified woman after a Republican women's convention in California on Oct. 7, 2017. "Knowing that it was the height of the MeToo movement and any public accusation would result in his immediate termination from Fox, Mr. Hegseth ultimately decided to enter into a settlement for a significantly reduced amount," according to the statement. PHOTO: U.S. President Donald Trump is interviewed by Fox and Friends co-host Pete Hegseth at the White House in Washington, U.S. April 6, 2017. (Kevin Lamarque/Reuters) MORE: Pete Hegseth, Trump's pick for defense secretary, once slammed him for 'shallowness' on foreign policy Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Parlatore's telling, Hegseth met the woman an event after-party, where he became "visibly intoxicated." The woman "led him by the arm to his hotel room" where the two engaged in a "consensual sexual encounter." "The complainant was the aggressor in initiating sexual activity," Parlatore wrote. As ABC News has previously reported, the woman filed a police report days later but no charges were filed. Two years later, according to Parlatore, the woman "began to make noise about filing a lawsuit against Mr. Hegseth." Her co-workers "warned us of the threat," prompting Hegseth and his legal team to send her a cease-and-desist letter. Parlatore did not reveal the amount of the settlement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to The Washington Post, Parlatore's statement -- which was first reported by the newspaper -- came after a friend of the alleged victim sent a memo to Trump transition officials last week drawing their attention to the incident. PHOTO: Pete Hegseth walks to an elevator for a meeting with President-elect Donald Trump at Trump Tower in New York, Dec. 15, 2016. (Evan Vucci/AP) MORE: Trump taps Fox News host Pete Hegseth to serve as secretary of defense The memo, which ABC News has not obtained or reviewed, reportedly said that the woman -- who was described by the Post as a then-30-year-old conservative group staffer -- was responsible for ensuring that Hegseth made it back to his hotel room at the end of the night. In a post on X, Trumps team said the president-elect is standing by Hegseth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr. Hegseth has vigorously denied any and all accusations, and no charges were filed, Stephen Cheung, Trumps communications director, said. We look forward to his confirmation as United States Secretary of Defense. Trumps team has not replied to ABC News request for comment. The person who sent the memo to the transition team did not respond to requests for comment from The Post. According to the memo, two other women summoned her over when Hegseth became "pushy about his interest in taking them upstairs to his room." After the two other women left, the woman "didn't remember anything until she was in Hegseth's hotel room and then stumbling to find her hotel room." The next day, she "had a moment of hazy memory of being raped the night before, and had a panic attack," the memo read. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman then went to an emergency room where a rape-kit examination was positive for semen, the Post reported the memo said. Monterey city officials said in a statement that police investigated a "sexual assault" that allegedly occurred in the early morning hours of Oct. 8, 2017, at a Hyatt Regency. The incident did not involve a weapon, but the victim allegedly suffered "contusions to right thigh." Hegseth is not identified in the city's statement as the alleged assailant. The victims name and age are listed as "confidential." A police report was filed days later, on Oct. 12. A Monterey Superior Court spokesperson told ABC News on Thursday there no records on file with Hegseths name as a party. Hegseth, Trump's defense pick, paid settlement to woman who accused him of sexual assault, lawyer says originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Hezbollah has confirmed the death of its press spokesman, Mohammed Afif, in an Israeli attack in Beirut. He was a "pillar" of Hezbollah's media and political work, the pro-Iranian group said on Telegram. Afif was one of the few remaining publicly known faces of Hezbollah after the killing of the group's leadership and had recently led press conferences. He was a confidante of the militia's former secretary general Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike at the end of September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Afif died in an Israeli attack in the densely populated Ras Al Naba district near the centre of Beirut. At the time of the attack, he is said to have been in an office of the Baath Party, which is active in several Arab countries, including as the party of Syrian ruler Bashar al-Assad. According to Lebanese authorities, at least three other people were killed in the attack and 14 people injured. Weather watches and warnings A live data feed from the National Weather Service containing official weather warnings, watches, and advisory statements. Tap warning areas for more details. Sources: NOAA, National Weather Service, NOAA GeoPlatform and Esri. Open King tides returned to San Luis Obispo County this weekend, ushering in the years highest and lowest water levels within a span of less than 12 hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These tides are caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun, which creates a tidal bulge, or an area of elevated sea level on the oceans surface. As the Earth rotates eastward, California passes into this bulge, resulting in a flood tide that culminates in a high tide. As the rotation continues, we enter regions of lower than normal sea level, called nodes, leading to an ebb tide and eventually low tide. The slack tide occurs when the water is neither rising nor falling. These tidal effects are not the total gravitational pull of the moon and sun, but rather the variation in gravitational forces across Earths surface. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ray Weymann, a retired director and chair of the astronomy department at the University of Arizona, explained this phenomenon. High tides at Port San Luis were predicted to peak on Saturday at 9:16 a.m. at 6.8 feet, on Sunday at 9:58 a.m. at 6.7 feet and on Monday at 10:42 a.m. at 6.3 feet. However, actual sea levels can differ significantly from predictions due to factors such as ocean swell, currents and warmer seawater temperatures that cause thermal expansion of the water column. For instance, on Jan. 10, 2005, the verified sea level reached 7.7 feet 0.7 feet higher than expected. On Jan. 27, 1983, a predicted tide of 6.8 feet resulted in a record breaking 8-foot-tide, the highest ever recorded along the Central Coast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you visit the coastline to witness this nearly 7-foot-high tide, imagine the impact of an additional foot of water, as seen during the historic tide of Jan. 27, 1983. King tides, the highest highs and lowest lows of the season, came to Shell Beach on Thursday, Dec. 22, 2022. This photo was taken at 8:20 a.m., shortly before high tide reached a peak of 7.1 feet at 8:44 a.m. Low tide was -1.57 feet at 4:12 p.m. King tides, the highest highs and lowest lows of the season, came to Shell Beach on Thursday, Dec. 22, 2022. This photo was taken at 3:30 p.m., shortly before the low tide of -1.57 feet at 4:12 p.m. High tide reached a peak of 7.1 feet at 8:44 a.m. This week, a robust 1,037-millibar Eastern Pacific High, located about 1,500 miles west of the Central Coast, will steer the storm track toward the Pacific Northwest. This pattern will bring abundant precipitation to Northern California, Oregon and Washington through the end of November, while the Central Coast remains mostly dry. After crossing the Northern Pacific and impacting the Pacific Northwest, the jet stream will sharply turn right over British Columbia and Washington state, then shift southward toward Southern California. This shift will bring a colder air mass to the Central Coast through Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Saturday and Sunday, moderate to fresh (13 to 24 mph) and at times gusty Santa Lucia (northeasterly/offshore) winds will develop overnight into the morning, shifting out of the northwest and increasing in the afternoon. This condition will produce primarily clear skies with cold nights and cool afternoons. The inland valleys (Paso Robles), coastal valleys (San Luis Obispo) and beaches will struggle to break into the 60s. Overnight lows will drop to the high 20s in the inland valleys. The far inland valleys (California Valley) could drop to the low 20s by Sunday morning, while the coastal valleys and beaches will see low temperatures ranging between high 30s and low 40s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A weak cold front will move through the Central Coast on Sunday night into Monday morning with increasing clouds and a slight chance of a few scattered rain showers. Most areas will not receive any measurable rain. The main impact of this system will be strong to gale-force (25 to 38 mph) north to northwesterly winds that will follow in its wake on Monday. A pattern of moderate to fresh (13 to 24 mph) and at times gusty Santa Lucia (northeasterly/offshore) winds developing during the overnight and morning, shifting out of the northwest during afternoon will continue to produce clear skies on Tuesday through Saturday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Temperatures will gradually warm on Wednesday through Saturday with most areas warming to the low 70s. A weak cold front may bring scattered rain showers to our area on Sunday, Nov. 25. Otherwise, mostly dry conditions are expected to persist into the first week of December, unless a blocking high develops in the Gulf of Alaska. Surf report A 5- to 7-foot northwesterly (295-degree deep-water) sea and swell (with a 7- to 11- second period) is forecast along our coastline on Sunday, increasing to 8- to 10-feet (with a 7- to 17-second period) on Monday. This northwesterly (295-degree deep-water) sea and swell will decrease to 6- to 8-feet (with a 7- to 15-second period) on Tuesday, and will remain at this level through Saturday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Surface seawater temperatures will range between 53 and 55 degrees through Saturday. On this date in weather history (Nov. 17) 1927: A tornado injured 31 people when it cut a 17-mile path across Alexandria and southeastern Washington D.C. The tornado struck the Naval Air Station, where a wind gust of 93 mph was recorded. A waterspout was seen over the Potomac River 90 minutes later. (David Ludlum). 2008: After three straight days of record-breaking heat, the offshore winds substantially weakened bringing cooler temperatures into the coast similar to those seen today. 2012: Rocky Butte near San Simeon recorded 2.01 inches of rain, while Tims Home on top of the Irish Hills reported 1.80 inches of rain. The Davis Peak weather station in the Irish Hills recorded 1.14 inches of precipitation. This weeks temperatures LOWS AND HIGHS, PASO ROBLES SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN 29, 62 37, 59 31, 60 33, 71 36, 72 33, 68 34, 67 35, 65 LOWS AND HIGHS, SAN LUIS OBISPO AND COASTAL VALLEYS SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN 40, 66 45, 60 41, 61 42, 68 47, 71 46, 72 48, 68 47, 67 John Lindsey is a retired PG&E marine meteorologist. Email him at JohnLindseyLosOsos@gmail.com or follow him on Twitter @PGE_John. HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) Just in time for the holidays, the annual Trees of Hope celebration at Gary Rome Hyundai is bringing the community together for a beloved craft fair! On Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. the dealership service drive transformed into a vibrant marketplace with over 25 vendors showcasing a wide array of unique crafts and home decor. This was an event filled with joy and creativity, destined to ignite the holiday spirit! Gary Rome Hyundai in Holyoke holds 4th annual Trees of Hope fundraiser Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trees of Hope supports the Ronald McDonald House of Springfield by raffling off beautifully decorated trees donated by community organizations. The Marketing Administrator for Gary Rome Auto Group told 22News why supporting these local organizations is so important. Being away from home is definitely a challenge in itself for this time of year, just even in general, expressed Brianna Zemrock of Gary Rome Auto Group. So, its important to come out and support them so that way they can raise the money, and make that holiday special for the ones who are going through the challenging time right now Raffle tickets for fabulous craft prizes were available with the drawing happening at 3:30 p.m. The Trees of Hope event continues throughout the 22nd, and to find more information on how to support the Ronald McDonald house this holiday season and beyond, visit their website. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. A ruckus occurred during a public rally held by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Navneet Rana at Khallar village, part of the Daryapur constituency in Amravati, the police said on Sunday. According to the police, Navneet Rana came to Khallar village on Saturday to campaign for Ramesh Bundile, who is contesting from the Daryapur Assembly constituency on BJP's ticket. The incident occurred around 10 PM on Saturday when chairs were reportedly thrown at Navneet Rana while she was campaigning for Ramesh Bundile. The BJP leader was allegedly attacked as she was addressing the crowd in Daryapur's Khallar village. Following the attack, Navneet Rana filed a complaint at the police station. Former MP Navneet Rana claimed that while she was delivering her speech from the stage, a few people in the audience started hooting. She added when she stepped down after concluding her speech, chairs were thrown and slogans were raised against her. The police have registered a case regarding the incident and have initiated a probe into the matter. "BJP leader Navneet Rana came to Khallar village yesterday, to campaign for the BJP candidate from the Daryapur Assembly constituency, Ramesh Bundile. During the rally, a dispute broke out between two groups. We have registered a case on the complaint of Navneet Rana. The situation is now under control. A police checkpoint has been set up in the village. We request the citizens to not believe in any kind of rumours. Further investigation is underway," Inspector Crime Branch Rural Amravati, Kiran Wankhade said. Meanwhile, a viral video of senior Congress leader Nitin Raut purportedly claiming that he was dropped from the Vilas Rao Deshmukh cabinet for greeting the Chief Minister with 'Jai Bheem' has spelt trouble for the party. The clip has given the BJP ammunition to attack the party as Anti-Dalit. The Maharashtra assembly elections are scheduled for November 20, with votes for all 288 constituencies to be counted on November 23. The opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition, comprising Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and the Nationalist Congress Party (SCP), seeks to reclaim power in the state, challenging the Mahayuti alliance, which includes Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Ajit Pawar-led NCP. (ANI) LOS ANGELES (AP) The family of Quincy Jones was not sure they wanted to attend the Governors Awards. Their father died two weeks before he could accept his second honorary Oscar, alongside Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, filmmaker Richard Curtis and casting director Juliet Taylor. But the Jones family decided to show up for the event Sunday night in Hollywood for a celebration of his life and work with humor from Jamie Foxx, a rousing performance by Jennifer Hudson and a moment with his family: His daughter Rashida Jones even read the speech he had been working on up until a month ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We felt like we wanted to celebrate his beautiful life and career, she said. His music has literally defined an entire century of culture spanning genres. It was a moving end to a celebratory evening that had Hugh Grant roasting Curtis for getting a kind of Oscar and Daniel Craig celebrating the legacy of the James Bond films. The audience in the Ray Dolby Ballroom was starrier than even the Oscars. The event, put on by the film academys board of governors, is also a de-facto campaign stop for Oscar hopefuls as awards season gets underway. Everywhere you looked there were famous faces greeting one another: Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson at the bar ordering a margarita on the rocks; Jude Law and Kristen Wiig exchanging hellos; Zooey Deschanel sipping champagne; Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz Beckham wandering around; Saoirse Ronan and Elizabeth Olsen deep in conversation; Sharon Stone hugging Kieran Culkin; Jesse Eisenberg chatting with Elle Fanning; and Jeremy Strong taking a selfie with Guy Pearce. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Others remained near their seats, like Jennifer Lawrence, June Squibb and Angelina Jolie, who attended alongside her son Knox Jolie-Pitt. They sat beside her Maria director Pablo Larrain and across from His Three Daughters stars Natasha Lyonne and Olson. At another table, Barry Keoghan kept making his way to Margarat Qualleys side, squeezing in between her and Demi Moore. But most of the schmoozing subsided for the main event. With no television cameras or band to play anyone off during a speech, it is a night during which friends and colleagues can pay tribute to the years honorary Oscar recipients. Broccoli and her brother Wilson followed in her fathers footsteps receiving the rarely given Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award, celebrating the work of producers. Albert Cubby Broccoli accepted his own trophy, then a bust of Thalberg, at the 1982 Academy Awards as they looked on from the audience. Its heavier than I thought, Wilson said, holding the Oscar statuette. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Broccoli also commented on the importance of producers, a credit she said that lately is being handed out like party favors. They got some gentle ribbing from Craig beforehand. Broccoli, he said, cackles, I mean, crackles with passion. But for a man who has always had a seemingly conflicted relationship with his Bond era, his admiration for them was evident. I cant tell you how much I admire your integrity, Craig said. These (Bond movies) are the most expensive independent films ever made. Grant was less delicate but infinitely funnier paying tribute to Curtis, who has written for and directed him in many films including Four Weddings and a Funeral, Notting Hill and Love, Actually. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Would we call it an Oscar? Its a kind of Oscar, Grant said. Its a better than nothing Oscar. Curtis may be best known for his contributions to romantic comedies, but the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award was for a lifetime of charitable work, which Grant said was annoying and frankly selfish. In his acceptance speech, Curtis made a plea to the room to set aside a small portion of film budgets to hire an impact producer. Nicole Kidman presented the honorary Oscar to Taylor, a casting director unaccustomed to being publicly celebrated for her contributions to cinema. In her career of more than four decades, she cast classics like Annie Hall, Working Girl, Sleepless in Seattle and Schindlers List. Squibb, at the event with her Thelma director Josh Margolin, said that Taylor cast her in her fist film, Woody Allens Alice. I dont know if Id have a career in motion pictures without it, Squibb said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Taylor was excited about her award, she was even happier that her peers are soon going to be regularly recognized. Starting with films released in 2025, the film academy will give a new competitive Oscar to casting directors. There were many somber references throughout the evening to the events of the last few weeks, although no one speaking from the stage said anything much more specific. Jamie Foxx, introducing the Quincy Jones tribute, did his own little impersonation of President Elect Donald Trump. Why is everyone so down on these few weeks, he said. Foxx quickly got back on track to speak about Jones, whose celebration closed out the evening on a cathartic note. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was really excited to attend tonight, Rashida Jones said. He has so many friends in this room. Well, actually, probably in every room to be honest because wherever he went he made connections with everyone. Real ones. He knew how to stay present, to stay curious, to stay loving." Jones invited the audience to listen on the way home, to go for the deepest cuts. There's an entire universe waiting in his seven decades of music, she said. And while you listen, hear him, hear how he imbued love into every single second of music he made. That was his real legacy: Love. Rep. Madeleine Dean (D-Pa.) said in an interview Saturday that former Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (Hawaii), who has been chosen by President-elect Trump to serve as director of national intelligence, is not a serious pick for an extraordinarily important position. Shes not a serious pick for this extraordinarily important position of national intelligence, overseeing 18 different national intelligence agencies, knowing every single one of the most important secrets that our country has to be able to hold closely, Dean told MSNBCs Alex Witt on her show. Its a very unserious pick and actually a very dangerous one. Trump announced Wednesday that he has selected Gabbard to be director of national intelligence in his next administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For over two decades, Tulsi has fought for our Country and the Freedoms of all Americans. As a former Candidate for the Democrat Presidential Nomination, she has broad support in both Parties She is now a proud Republican! I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community, championing our Constitutional Rights, and securing Peace through Strength. Tulsi will make us all proud! Trump said in a statement. Gabbard has in the past shared content implying that the U.S. has previously had involvement in Ukraine making biological weapons, perpetuating a narrative from the Russians. She also met with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, who has been accused of the use of chemical weapons on Syrian civilians, seven years ago. She will also need to be confirmed by the Senate. Does she have the credentials for such an important position? Witt asked Dean about Gabbard. Well, clearly not, Dean responded. Again, with all of these appointments, or at least most, were finding that they are not serious picks. This is not a serious person, this is somebody I served alongside her in the first Congress that I was here, three Congresses ago, when she was on [the House Financial Services Committee] alongside me, literally in my row. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was seldom there, because she was moving on to either visit mouthing of the talking points of the Vladimir Putin, or visiting Syrian President [Bashar al-Assad,] but she also just wasnt there, Dean added. The Hill has reached out to the Trump transition team for comment. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Mike Huckabee (R), Arkansass former governor and newly appointed U.S. ambassador to Israel, commended President-elect Trump for selecting Pete Hegseth to lead the Department of Defense. I think hes going to be just as disruptive, which needs to happen at the DOD. Theyve been so focused on being woke and being diverse that nobody wants to join them, Huckabee said Friday on NewsMaxs Rob Schmitt Tonight. He said the Fox News host and Army National Guard officer could boost recruitment levels which are at an all-time low, which Huckabee blamed on recent diversity and inclusion efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Huckabee compared their attempts to increase enlistment to a social experiment that Hegseth could help end. The military has always been a meritocracy. Its never been some social experiment, the Republican said. So if Pete Hegseth goes in and gets rid of some of these folks who politically got their jobs rather than for military capacity, God bless him. Good for him. However, some lawmakers have questioned Hegseths selection after sexual assault allegations surfaced in addition to his lack of experience in military leadership. Others have joined Huckabee in praising Trumps choice in hopes that he would cure the armed forces of woke generals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im thrilled with these appointments so far, because every one of them pretty much are disruptive. These are not people who go into just oil the machinery thats already running, Huckabee said, noting Rep. Matt Gaetzs (R-Fla.) selection for attorney general. They want to come in and make some serious, positive changes so these agencies start working for the good and working for the American people rather than working for somebodys left-wing agenda. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Editors note: This story has been updated to show the correct time the rescue happened. NEGLEY, Ohio (WKBN) The Calcutta Fire Department rescued a hunter who fell off a cliff in Negley on Saturday morning, according to the departments Facebook page. It happened around 7:30 a.m. deep in the woods of the Amarillo Avenue neighborhood near Beaver Creek State Park Equestrian Campground. The hunter had a broken leg but was safely transported out of the woods to get medical help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Calcutta crews had help from Glenmoor Vol Fire Department, East Liverpool dispatch and other departments police officers and EMTs. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. Nov. 16The three federal immigrant detention centers in New Mexico house a combined 1,820 people and are about 78% full, according to data from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. It's not yet certain whether the recent election of former President Donald Trump, a Republican, to another term in office means the agency will need to increase its workforce and expand its capacity in this blue border state to prepare for rising numbers of detainees. It would be "premature to speculate" on that, ICE spokesperson Leticia Zamarripa wrote in an email last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the federal agency isn't waiting to find out if Trump will make good on his campaign promise for mass deportations. It began seeking more space for immigrant detainees in the region surrounding El Paso even before the Nov. 5 election, issuing a "request for information" in August for "approximately 850 to 950 detention beds ... for adult noncitizens" within two hours of its El Paso office and sub offices in Las Cruces, Roswell, Chaparral and Albuquerque. This could lead to an increase of about 30% in the capacity of New Mexico's detention facilities at least one of which has faced calls for closure in recent years over reports of poor conditions for detainees, many who were seeking asylum. The Torrance County Detention Facility saw hunger strikes over the conditions and a high-profile suicide. Immigrant advocates and U.S. senators urged ICE to end its contract with private prison operator CoreCivic to run the facility after the Department of Homeland Security's Office of the Inspector General issued reports in 2022 detailing subpar conditions and lack of access to medical, legal and language services. But CoreCivic continues to operate the facility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Data shows ICE could potentially expand its beds in New Mexico by greater numbers than 950 even without the need for new construction. The detainee data provided by ICE for its facilities in Torrance, Cibola and Otero counties appears to refer only to the number of its beds under existing contracts not the space of the buildings, which have room for many more beds. While an ICE spokesperson wrote in an email its Torrance County facility has a capacity of 505 beds, a spokesperson for CoreCivic says it can hold "more than 900." The discrepancy between the capacity reported by the federal government and CoreCivic for the Cibola County Correctional Center is even more stark: ICE says it's 315; CoreCivic says "more than 1,110." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement N.M. beds available? According to the New Mexico Immigrant Law Center, at least three applicants have responded to ICE's inquiry. The organization has filed a public records request for the applications under the federal Freedom of Information Act but is still waiting to receive them, senior attorney Sophia Genovese said. The law center knows applications were submitted from parties in Torrance, Cibola and Lea counties, she said; however, it doesn't know whether private prison operators or government entities have expressed an interest in providing the beds. "Advocates are somewhat concerned there will be direct contracting relationships between the federal government and private corporations to create this bed space, but we're still trying to find that information out," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Torrance County has contracts with both the federal government and CoreCivic for operation of the county-owned immigrant detention center in Estancia. The population there has rebounded nearly to full capacity 501 of its 505 ICE beds are occupied, according to the agency after having dwindled to only three detainees in December 2022 amid the reports of inhumane conditions and the August 2022 suicide of 23-year-old Brazilian asylum-seeker Kesley Vial. The annual contract between Torrance County and CoreCivic had been set to expire in May but has been extended twice since then once in May, and again in October. The most recent amendment extends the contract through the end of December. Under the terms of the extension, the federal government pays CoreCivic about $2.2 million per month to house detainees there. Torrance County Manager Jordan Barela said Friday he didn't know why the recent contract extensions were so short or whether they indicated plans to expand in the coming year. He said the county is essentially just a passthrough for the money and isn't involved in negotiations between the company and the federal government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To his knowledge, he said, the county has not responded to ICE's request for applications to provide additional beds. But he noted he's only been on the job since late September. "I wouldn't expect that Torrance County was actually that applicant," he said. "My thoughts would be that if there was any applicant ... it would have been CoreCivic directly." CoreCivic declined to say Friday whether the company had responded to the request for information. "It's our policy not to ever comment on any sort of open procurement processes," spokesperson Ryan Gustin said in an interview. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lea County Manager Mike Gallagher said his county has no existing agreements to provide beds for ICE detainees and isn't contemplating any. GEO Group, the private prison operator that runs the Lea County Correctional Facility currently housing state inmates did not respond to an email asking whether it was one of the applicants. 'Ready to litigate' About 46,250 undocumented immigrants living in New Mexico could be in danger of deportation if Trump follows through with his campaign promises, said Genovese, the lawyer with New Mexico Immigrant Law Center. Given the state's relatively small population "that's quite a lot of people, and it's nothing to minimize," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's not just immigrants who are impacted by enforcement operations," Genovese said. "It's their entire families and communities." She said the deportation rhetoric is dangerous and frightening for people who are either undocumented or have mixed status. "It's going to make people afraid to go to the police, go to the doctor, go to social services, public services, things that they need. The rhetoric is going to stoke fear that is going to harm everyone at large," Genovese said. The American Civil Liberties Union plans to advocate in the state's upcoming legislative session for a bill that would prohibit New Mexico counties from contracting with ICE for detention operations, ACLU of New Mexico senior staff attorney Rebecca Sheff said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "New Mexico really shouldn't be involved in facilitating Trumps's mass deportation campaign in any way," she said. The New Mexico Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights also has announced it will examine the implications of civil rights in immigration centers in the state as its next project, Sheff said. The group's report is due in 2025. In the meantime, Sheff said, New Mexico families who fear being separated should make safety plans "to make sure their loved ones are as protected as possible" as they face the potential for racial profiling, family separation and deportation. Genovese said the New Mexico Immigrant Law Center already has begun creating "toolkits" containing information to help community members understand their "rights and protections," and stands ready to represent people facing deportation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are ready to litigate," she said. "We will continue to fight." U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich, a New Mexico Democrat, was one of several lawmakers who called for ICE to stop contracting with CoreCivic for operation of the Torrance County Detention Facility in 2022, citing grievous living conditions, critical staffing shortages and lack of access to legal services. "Opportunities for meaningful oversight will undoubtably be constrained" during the next presidential administration due to Republican control of the U.S. House and Senate, his chief of staff, Rebecca Avitia, said in an interview Thursday. However, Heinrich spokesperson Luis Soriano wrote in an email, "as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Heinrich is committed to doing everything he can to try to put guardrails on how American taxpayer money is spent. This includes when considering conditions in ICE detention facilities." Soriano said Heinrich is familiar from the first Trump administration with the tactics to fight his policies, and "he'll work to use every one of them to deliver for New Mexico and the fundamental values and freedoms we hold close." SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) Saturday, the Great Plains Action Society cleaned up War Eagle park to prepare for the 22nd Annual March to Honor Lost Children. The overall sense is just bringing the community together and doing this out of a good heart, good prayer, good intentions, and just laying that foundation for the march, Great Plains Action Society Siouxland project director Trisha Rivers said. Young girl receives adaptive bike at Sioux City Hy-Vee Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Armed with gloves and trash bags, many Siouxland residents made their way through War Eagle Park with the goal of rematriation. Rematriation is an approach to returning back to traditional ecological knowledge and practices from the Indigenous perspective, Rivers said. So, how did we farm the land? How did our ancestors take care of this land? There was a balance within our own natural world, and so how do we bring back rematriation and not repatriation? To help with the effort, the nonprofit partnered with the Iowa Environmental Council to bring forward the environmental issues currently impacting Siouxland. Siouxland is in this really odd position where weve seen a lot of negative environmental impacts from climate change, corporate greed, and people just not knowing what is happening here, Iowa Environmental Council campaign organizer Lexi Mckee-Hemenway said. Cleaning up our environment is one small step we can take to preserve not only the land but the animals who live here and the people who walk on this earth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The effort to clean up War Eagle Park not only helps the environment but preserves the land that helps highlight Siouxlands Indigenous history. Public invited to 31st annual Festival of Trees in Sioux City Its the fabric of Sioux City, Rivers said. We have the story of Teddy Bruguier and Chief War Eagle who have made friendships with each other, so a non-native and a native making this friendship with each other and laying that foundation. So its important to hold events like this here because we want to honor that. We want to show that we can work together, especially when it comes to environmental issues. But also to shed light on native-centered issues in our own community, such as the foster care system. The Annual Memorial March to Honor Lost Children will begin at War Eagle Park on November 27 at 8 am. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Sunday paid tribute to Balasaheb Thackeray saying that it's a day to remember him and his thoughts. Raut asserted that it's been 12 years since he left this world but Balasaheb's ideas are still with them and hence Shiv Sena UBT is fighting in elections with his thoughts. "Today is the remembrance day of Hindu Hriday Samrat Balasaheb Thackeray. 12 years have passed, Balasaheb left us only physically, his ideas are still with us. In this election, we are fighting for Balasaheb's ideas. Balasaheb founded Shiv Sena so that religion is protected in Maharashtra, the self-respect of Marathis here is protected, our ideas are protected. Our justice and rights, which Balasaheb talked about, are in danger... Therefore, today is the day to remember him, to remember his thoughts and we are definitely fighting this election with his thoughts," Raut said while addressing reporters. Earlier today, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray paid tribute to Balasaheb Thackeray on his death anniversary at Shivaji Park in Dadar, Mumbai. He was accompanied by his wife Rashmi Thackeray and other leaders of the party. Party leader Anil Desai also paid floral tribute to Balasaheb Thackeray on his death anniversary. Balasaheb Thackeray was the founder of the Shiv Sena party and is the father of Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray. Born on January 23, 1926, in Pune, Balasaheb Thackeray had begun his professional career as a cartoonist with the English-language daily 'The Free Press Journal'. He later quit his professional job and founded the Shiv Sena in 1966 to advocate for the interests of the people of Maharashtra in Mumbai's political and professional landscape. Thackeray was also the founder of the Marathi-language newspaper 'Saamana'. He did not hold any official positions during his political career. Thackeray breathed his last on November 17, 2012, after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was 86. (ANI) BAKU, Azerbaijan (AP) They share stories of rising seas, burning trees, contaminated water and disease. But they also come ready to discuss solutions, sharing work their communities are doing to help confront a major threat to life on Earth: climate change. For the many Indigenous peoples who attend the annual U.N. climate talks, this year being held in Azerbaijan, it's a chance to make their voices heard. Their communities are often hard hit by weather extremes that are made worse by climate change. At the same time, traditional practices make many such communities vital in efforts to combat global warming. After all, for thousands of years Indigenous peoples around the world have successfully cared for lands, finding a balance with nature. The Associated Press asked 12 Indigenous people attending this years negotiations to say one thing about how climate change is impacting their community, or how their community is helping to combat climate change. Here are their reflections: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Saina Ekaterina Savvinova, 53 Indigenous community: Yakut Location: Yakutsk, Russia When I was a child, we had a lot of snow. We played in it. We made labyrinths with it. Now we dont have much snow. Antumalen Ayelen Antillanca Urrutia, 26 Indigenous community: Mapuche Huilliche Location: Huapi Island, Chile As a young Mapuche, I denounce the contamination of my home of Ranco Lake in southern Chile. I live on the third largest lake, on an island in the middle of it, and we do not have drinking water. Sydney Males, 27 Indigenous community: Kichwa Otavalo Location: Otavalo, Ecuador We have a connection, like an energy, with the lakes, with the water in general. We have a connection with fire, we have a connection with the the air and other things that you in the Occident don't have a connection with. So, we have solutions for climate change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Big Wind Carpenter, 31 Indigenous community: Northern Arapaho Location: Wind River Reservation, United States We have been in a drought since I was born. We have been in extreme drought the last 30 years and completely surrounded by wildfires. Flora Vano, 39 Indigenous community: Melenasian Location: Port Vila, Vanuatu Sea level rise is eating us up. It threatens our food security, contaminates our water source, infrastructure is destroyed and the increase in gender-based violence goes sky high. Puyr dos Santos Tembe, 47 Indigenous community: Tembe Location: Belem, Brazil Think about the Amazon. You have trees and rivers, and then you see the rivers, which are the mode of transport for many people, drying up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mingma Chhiri, 40 Indigenous community: Sherpa Location: Khumbu Pasanglhamu Municipality District, Nepal As ethnic people in the area, we dont destroy any natural beauty. We dont cut trees. We plant them. Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, 41 Indigenous community: Mbororo Location: NDjamena, Chad Right now we are experiencing the biggest floods we have ever had. Two million people have been displaced and thousands are dead. Ninawa Inu Pereira Nunes, 50 Indigenous community: Huni Kui Location: Feijo, Brazil The main work we do is to raise awareness among people to stop deforestation. But we are also restoring degraded areas by planting trees. And we are working very hard to strengthen the spirituality of our people by restoring the sources of the rivers and repopulating the streams and rivers." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Marynne Rimbao, 42 Indigenous community: Tombekin Location: Unda village, Papua New Guinea My place is located in one of the remotest places in Papua New Guinea, where there are mining activities. Especially when mining activities are involved, my area is being impacted by climate change when it comes to the environment the land, the water, the resources, the food and forests that sustains our livelihood." Didja Tchari Djibrillah, 30 Indigenous community: Peul Mbororo Location: Mayo-Kebbi East, Chad The community (of pastoralists) contributes to combatting the effects of climate change. When moving from one place to another, we leave cow dung that allows the soil to be fertilized and the ecosystem to regenerate." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jackson Michael, 40 Indigenous community: Iban Location: Borneo, Malaysia Heavy rainfall is affecting wildlife. Now the government is making a lot of effort to protect and preserve wildlife. __ The Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. Nov. 16A 59-year-old hunter was rescued Friday after suffering a hip injury that left him stranded on Cedar Mountain in Clarksville, according to New Hampshire Fish and Game. Bruce Guillemette of Deerfield twisted his torso while hunting, leaving him unable to walk, near Bobcat Trail around 9:15 a.m., Fish and Game said in a news release. Guillemette managed to call 911 and his hunting companion for help, officials said. Rescue crews from multiple agencies including Pittsburg Fire and Rescue, Beecher Falls Volunteer Fire Department, and Fish and Game reached Guillemette by noon using off-highway recreational vehicles. They carried him by litter for half a mile to waiting OHRVs before transporting him to Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital in Colebrook for evaluation. Officials said both Guillemette and his companion were experienced hunters and properly equipped for the freezing temperatures. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi on Nov. 16 dismissed reports about a meeting between Tehran's United Nations envoy and U.S. billionaire Elon Musk, who is also a close adviser to President-elect Donald Trump. U.S. media outlets, including The New York Times, reported that Musk and Iran's UN Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani had an hour-long conversation in New York on Monday. The Iranians, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss policy publicly, described the meeting as "positive" and "good news," the New York Times reported on Nov. 14. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This was a fabricated story by American media, and the motives behind this can also be speculated," Araqchi said during an interview with state television, reiterating an earlier denial from Iran's Foreign Ministry. The Iranian minister described the report of a meeting as a "media fabrication" intended to test the waters and gauge the potential for such an occurrence. "We are still waiting for the new US administration to clarify its policies, and based on that, we will adjust our own policies. Right now, it is neither the time for such meetings nor is it appropriate," Araqchi added. He also emphasized that the leadership had not authorized such a meeting, referring to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Read also: Democratic senators urge investigation into Musks calls with Russia, Reuters reports Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. A 38-year-old Irving police officer was killed in a motorcycle crash Friday afternoon, officials said. Officer Jerome Scholz was off-duty when the accident occurred, according to an Irving Police Department news release. He died at a local hospital less than an hour later. He was loved by so many and truly had a heart of a servant, the department said on social media. We extend our deepest condolences to Officer Scholzs family and loved ones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Irving police officers responded to a multi-vehicle accident involving a motorcycle in the 7800 block of Valley View Lane around 4:40 p.m. on Nov. 15. They found that Scholz was the motorcycle crash victim, the release states. A preliminary investigation suggests the other driver was turning and failed to yield the right of way, according to the release. Scholz, a U.S. Army veteran, had worked with the Irving Police Department for five years. Information about funeral arrangements is pending. More top stories from our newsroom: Fatal wrong-way crashes double in Fort Worth Restaurants win honors in first Michelin Star awards for Texas Mom battling cancer shares memories of teen son killed in shooting [Get our breaking news alerts.] Hezbollahs chief media officer and prominent spokesman Mohammad Afif was killed by an Israeli strike in central Beirut on Sunday. Mr Afif was visiting the Syrian Baath partys Lebanese headquarters in the Ras al-Nabaa neighbourhood of the capital when it was hit by an unannounced Israeli bombardment, Lebanese media said. Ali Hijazi, the Baath partys leader in Lebanon, later confirmed that Mr Afif had been killed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The strike came as Lebanese leaders were studying a US-drafted ceasefire deal that would see Hezbollahs disarmament in the border regions and Israel withdraw its troops. Under its terms, the Lebanese armed forces would be the only armed group south of the Litani river, which is about 20 miles from Israels border. Mr Afif was Hezbollahs chief media officer and a prominent spokesman for the terror group - Haider Kadhim/Reuters Video footage from the scene showed rescuers searching for survivors among the rubble of a collapsed building. Lebanons health ministry said one person had been killed and three others injured. Ras al-Nabaa is a central Beirut district, around three miles from the citys Hezbollah-dominated southern suburbs, where the vast majority of Israeli strikes have taken place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Afif was a long-time media adviser to Hezbollahs former secretary general Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli air attack on south Beirut on Sept 27. He had joined the terror group in the early 1980s and managed Hezbollahs Al-Manar television station for several years before taking over its media relations office in 2014. Mr Afif arranged numerous press conferences in Beiruts southern suburbs in recent weeks, and was a point of contact for journalists. The targeted building is in central Beirut, three miles from the citys Hezbollah-dominated southern suburbs - Adnan Abidi/Reuters The Israeli military declined to comment on the strike and did not issue an evacuation order before carrying out the attack. The Israeli militarys Arabic spokesman did not mention the strike, but said on social media that Israeli warplanes had targeted Hezbollah sites in the southern suburbs of Beirut. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The terrorist [group] Hezbollah is deliberately establishing military structures within civilian areas throughout Lebanon with the aim of carrying out terrorist acts, placing its operatives and leaders in the heart of the civilian population, he wrote on X, formerly Twitter. Prior to the raids, a series of steps were taken to reduce the possibility of civilian casualties, including intelligence gathering, aerial reconnaissance, and advance warnings to evacuate the area, he added. The spokesman said that the Israeli air force had attacked some 50 Hezbollah targets in the southern suburbs of Beirut this week, including Nasrallahs former home. On Sunday, Hezbollahs media office released a two-month summary of the war following Israels invasion, claiming that 100 Israeli soldiers had been killed and 30 artillery positions destroyed. It also said that Hezbollah had fired 1,047 rockets and 29 anti-aircraft missiles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel says that 47 soldiers have been killed since Sept 30, when it sent troops across the border. The Israel Defense Forces have since pushed deep into Lebanon, reaching a village 61 miles from the capital Beirut last week. David Lammy, the Foreign Secretary, said he would use the UKs coming presidency of the UNs Security Council to call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. We must not give up our pursuit of a future where all people of the region can live side by side in peaceful co-existence, he said. Pope wants Gaza genocide investigation Meanwhile, it emerged on Sunday that Pope Francis favours a global investigation to determine if Israels attacks in Gaza constitute genocide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to some experts, what is happening in Gaza has the characteristics of a genocide, the Pope said in excerpts from his forthcoming book, published by the Italian daily La Stampa. We should investigate carefully to determine whether it fits into the technical definition formulated by jurists and international bodies. While the Argentinian leader of the 1.4-billion-member Catholic Church has called Israels attacks in Gaza and Lebanon immoral and disproportionate and repeatedly stresses de-escalation, it is the first time he has openly called for an investigation of possible genocide allegations over Israels bombings in the Gaza Strip. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The spokesperson of the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, Mohammed Afif, was killed in an Israeli strike on Beirut on Sunday. The death of Afif, who was for years an adviser to the late Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah and had been responsible for the groups media relations since 2014, was confirmed by the militant group in a statement calling him a great media leader. Afif was at the headquarters of the pro-Hezbollah Baath Party at the time of the strike. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No evacuation warning was issued before the strike, which hit an area known as Ras al-Nabaa in the middle of the day, killing four people, according to Lebanons health ministry. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said it carried out a precise, intelligence-based strike that eliminated the terrorist Mohammed Afif, the chief propagandist and spokesperson of the Hezbollah terrorist organization. Among those paying tribute to Afif was the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which sent its condolences to Afifs family and Hezbollah leadership, calling him a strong and defiant voice of resistance. On Sunday evening, another strike hit a building in Mar Elias, a densely populated Sunni-majority neighborhood near central Beirut, killing at least two people according to the Lebanese health ministry. CNN has reached out to the Israeli military for comment on the strike. With Sundays attacks, five strikes have hit inside Beiruts city limits since 2006, when a 34-day armed conflict between Israel and Hezbollah took place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Afif was one of the few public faces of Hezbollah, following a massive Israeli infiltration operation drove the group deep underground. He often delivered speeches from news conferences amid the rubble in the southern suburbs of Beirut, which have been pounded by attacks since Israel began a new offensive on October 1. Hezbollah is currently reviewing a US-Israeli ceasefire proposal submitted to the Lebanese government on Thursday, according to CNN sources familiar with the negotiations. It is unclear whether Afifs reported killing will impact the negotiations. Israels targeting of Afif comes amid an escalation in its offensive in Lebanon. Last week, Israels defense minister Israel Katz announced the expansion of the ground operation in southern Lebanon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And on Sunday Israel said it was using artillery batteries inside Lebanese territory for the first time. Previously, batteries had remained on Israeli soil firing into villages across the border. Artillery batteries are carrying out shelling from inside Lebanese territory attacking targets in support of ground forces during their operations, Avichay Adraee, the Israeli militarys Arabic spokesperson, said Sunday. The aim, Adraee said, is to expand the scope of the shelling and direct heavy fire towards combat areas in support of ground maneuvers. Israels war on many fronts In northern Gaza, at least 50 people were killed in Israeli strikes on Beit Lahiya on Sunday morning, according to the enclaves health ministry. Dozens of Palestinians displaced by the ongoing Israeli operation in the nearby Jabalya area were sheltering in two of the houses hit, a local journalist said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We were sitting at home and suddenly we heard intense strikes, because of this we were not able to leave the house, one eyewitness, who is also a resident of the area, told CNN without giving his name. The resident said the people in the area started removing the dead from the rubble in the absence of civil defense and ambulances. Gazas civil defense say they are unable to operate in the area due to the continuing Israeli strikes. People check the rubble of a building hit in an overnight Israeli strike in Beit Lahya in the northern Gaza Strip on November 17, 2024. - AFP/Getty Images These were people displaced from Jabalya to Beit Lahiya, the eyewitness said. A video of the aftermath seen by CNN shows children panicking, with some crying in the background, as a man tells them to calm down and get out. A toddler, covered in blood, is being held in someones arms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another toddler is heard in the background crying, mama, mama. The IDF told CNN that several strikes were conducted on terrorist targets in the area of Beit Lahiya overnight. It said that there have been continuous efforts to evacuate the civilian population from the active war zone in the area and that IDF is precisely operating and is doing everything possible to avoid causing harm to civilians. Separately, Israeli strikes targeted al-Bureij in central Gaza killing 23 people, according to Al Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, where the bodies were taken. CNN has also reached out to the IDF for comment on those strikes. It was a very terrifying night, with the sounds of small children screaming every little one calling for their mother, one resident in the area, Mahmoud Azaiza, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked about the Al-Bureij strike, the IDF told CNN it is operating to dismantle Hamas military capabilities. Israel launched a renewed military offensive on Jabalya last month after Israeli intelligence indicated that Hamas was trying to rebuild its capabilities in the area. The offensive displaced thousands of Palestinians and killed dozens. The operation has inflicted losses on the Israeli military, with 20 soldiers declared to have been killed in northern Gaza since the operation began, including four last week, according to statements published by the IDF since October 6. Palestinians mourn near their relatives' funerals after Israeli airstrike hit Bureij Camp in Deir al-Balah, Gaza on November 17, 2024. - Ali Jadallah/Anadolu/Getty Images This operation to systematically dismantle terrorist infrastructure in the area will continue as long as required in order to achieve its objectives, the IDF said last month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The continued offensive on Gaza coincides with Israels expanding operation in southern Lebanon. On Friday night, Israeli forces reached the village of Chama, some 61 miles from the capital of Beirut, in what is understood to be the deepest incursion into southern Lebanese territory. Israeli forces withdrew after clashing with Hezbollah, Lebanese state media said. Lebanons health ministry also reported that Israeli airstrikes on villages in the southern Tyre district on Sunday killed at least 11 people. CNN has reached out to the IDF for comment. Israeli airstrikes continued pounding the Lebanese capital on Sunday for the sixth consecutive day. The IDF renewed evacuation warnings Sunday morning for residents of Haret Hreik in the southern Beirut suburbs, where Hezbollah is known to have a strong presence. The Israeli military said its air force had conducted strikes on six Hezbollah military targets in Beiruts southern outskirts, known as Dahiyeh. This story has been updated with additional developments. CNNs Lauren Izso contributed to this reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has criticized the draft of the planned final declaration of the upcoming G20 summit in Brazil addressing the conflict in the Gaza Strip, calling it "unbalanced and biased." Saar said on social media platform X that he had phoned several foreign ministers of the Group of 20 (G20) states over the weekend and expressed his displeasure at the draft, ahead of the two-day gathering starting on Monday. "This was in light of information we received regarding a draft of a summary resolution that is both unbalanced and biased against Israel," Saar said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In my discussions with my counterparts, I stated that the summary statement addressing the conflict in our region must include recognition of Israels right to defend itself, a demand for the release of all hostages held by Hamas terrorists for more than 400 days under horrific conditions, and condemnation of both Hamas and Hezbollah." Saar went on to say that any statement not addressing these elements "will harm peace and security, and only serve to encourage Iran and its proxies to continue to spread instability throughout the Middle East." Iran is considered the main supporter of Palestinian militant organization Hamas and the Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon, as well as several other militias in the Middle East that are hostile to Israel. Israel is not a member of the G20, which counts Saudi Arabia as its only Arab member. By Emily Rose JERUSALEM (Reuters) - The Israeli military issued call-up notices to more members of the ultra-Orthodox community on Sunday to bolster its forces as it fights on its southern and northern borders, a move that may further inflame tensions between religious and secular Israelis. The Supreme Court ruled in June that the defence ministry could no longer grant blanket exemptions to Jewish seminary students from the conscript military, an arrangement in place since around the time of Israel's establishment in 1948 when the number of ultra-Orthodox, or Haredi, was tiny. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Israel fights wars against Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, Israel's defense ministry said on Friday 7,000 members of the community would gradually receive notices, starting on Sunday. A statement from the defense ministry said it would work with community leaders to ensure ultra-Orthodox soldiers could preserve their religious lifestyles while serving. In July, the military called up 1,000 ultra-Orthodox men. The new policy shift has been opposed by the two religious parties in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, placing severe strains on the right-wing coalition. Leaders of the rapidly growing ultra-Orthodox community say that forcing seminary students to serve alongside secular Israelis including women risks destroying their identity as religious Jews. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The government faces increasing pressure from Israeli reservists, of which many have served for the majority of the past year, to draft ultra-Orthodox members. Israel's public broadcaster Kan reported Sunday that some rabbis were urging those who received notices to refuse. (Reporting by Emily Rose; Editing by Jan Harvey) Uddhav Thackeray was accompanied by his wife Rashmi Thackeray and other leaders of the party. Party leader Anil Desai also paid floral tribute to Balasaheb Thackeray on his death anniversary. Bal Keshav Thackeray also known as Balasaheb Thackeray, was the founder of the Shiv Sena party who passed away on November 17, 2012, following a cardiac arrest at the age of 86. Shiv Sena UBT leader and his grandson Aaditya Thackeray took to X to pay tributes to Balasaheb Thackeray and shared a heartfelt post on his social media handle. He shared an image of him with his grandfather and captioned it in Marathi, "Grandpa... Salutations to the holy memory!" https://x.com/AUThackeray/status/1857853811811037586 Born on January 23, 1926, in Pune, Balasaheb Thackeray had begun his professional career as a cartoonist with the English-language daily 'The Free Press Journal'. He later quit his professional job and founded the Shiv Sena in 1966 to advocate for the interests of the people of Maharashtra, particularly in Mumbai's political and professional landscape. Thackeray was also the founder of the Marathi-language newspaper 'Saamana'. Despite his significant influence in politics, he did not hold any official positions during his political career. (ANI) The Israeli military launched a wave of attacks on the city centre of the Lebanese capital Beirut on Sunday, as dozens more Palestinians were reported killed in strikes in the Gaza Strip. The state news agency NNA reported an Israeli attack near the famous Mar Elias shopping street. Witnesses told dpa there had been at least two consecutive impacts on the densely populated area. The Lebanese Health Ministry said two people were killed and 13 injured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Initial reports indicated that an electronics store had been hit. A few hours earlier, the Israeli military had hit the Ras Al Naba district in the heart of the capital. Lebanese security sources said the spokesman for the pro-Iranian Hezbollah militia Mohammed Afif was killed in that strike. Afif was one of the few remaining publicly known faces of Hezbollah after the killing of the group's leadership and had recently led press conferences. He was considered a confidante of the militia's former secretary general Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike at the end of September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Israeli military did not issue evacuation notices ahead of the attacks in Beirut. Church bells rang in a Christian district Sunday morning to warn of the attacks, prompting residents to seek refuge in nearby churches. Lebanon, unlike Israel, lacks both air raid shelters and an official warning system. There were several Israeli evacuation calls issued for the southern suburbs of Beirut, known as Dahieh, which Israeli Air Force has attacked several times in recent days. According to the military, the attacks on Dahieh targeted Hezbollah's command centres and other facilities. Almost 100 killed in Israeli airstrikes in northern Gaza Almost 100 people have been killed in new Israeli strikes in the north of the Gaza Strip, the Hamas-controlled press office said on Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An Israeli bomb hit a five-storey residential block in the city of Beit Lahia, killing 72 people, it said. The building housed families displaced from their homes in other parts of the Gaza Strip. Many women and children were reported among the victims. A further 24 people were killed and several injured in Israeli airstrikes on the al-Bureij and Nuseirat refugee camps in the centre of the Gaza Strip, the press office said. The official Palestinian news agency WAFA reported that rescue workers were looking for bodies and survivors in the rubble. The Hamas-controlled health authority in the Gaza Strip reported that 47 Palestinians had died in fighting in the area over the past 24 hours, raising the number killed since the start of the war in October last year to 43,846. The figures do not distinguish between combatants and civilians. Two Lebanese army officers killed Back in Lebanon, the military said two Lebanese soldiers were killed in Israeli attack on a post in the south. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Lebanese army said that Israeli forces had targeted a centre belonging to it in the southern town of Mari. At least two other people were injured. killing one of its personnel and injuring three others, one critically. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military. UN peacekeeping patrol fired at 40 times UN peacekeeping troops in southern Lebanon once again come under fire. A UNIFIL patrol involving French and Finnish peacekeepers was in the village of Maarakeh on Saturday when it was fired at from behind about 40 times. A statement from the mission said the attack likely came from "non-state actor members" and that the patrol safely made it back to base. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Although some patrol vehicles had bullet impacts, there was no injury to the peacekeepers," the UN Interim Force in Lebanon said on Sunday. In recent weeks, peacekeeping troops have repeatedly found themselves caught in the crossfire during clashes between Israel and Hezbollah. Since September, Israel's military has massively expanded its attacks in Lebanon, where it says it is seeking to push back Hezbollah from its northern border so that residents can return to their homes. Fighter planes have bombed targets across the country and frequently in the suburbs south of Beirut. More than 3,000 people have been killed in Lebanon so far, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Health. BEIRUT (AP) A rare Israeli strike in central Beirut killed the Hezbollah militant group's chief spokesman on Sunday, while an Israeli strike in northern Gaza s Beit Lahiya killed at least 30 people, a hospital director there told The Associated Press. Mohammed Afif al-Naboulsi was killed in a strike on the Arab socialist Baath partys office in Beirut, Hezbollah confirmed in a statement. He had been especially visible after all-out war erupted between Israel and Hezbollah in September. Israel's military in a statement said he wielded significant influence over Hezbollahs military operations and glorified and incited attacks on Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was the latest targeted killing of a senior Hezbollah official. On Sunday night, another strike in central Beirut hit a computer shop, killing two people and wounding 22, Lebanon's Health Ministry said. There was no immediate comment from Israel's military. The strikes happened as Lebanese officials considered a United States-led cease-fire proposal. This confirms the crimes of the Israeli enemy, and that it wants to negotiate under fire and is expanding and targeting safe and safer areas, said a Lebanese member of parliament, Faisal Al Sayegh. Israel also bombed several buildings in Beiruts southern suburbs, where Hezbollah has long been headquartered, after warning people to evacuate. Screams in central Beirut Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was no Israeli evacuation warning before the strike near a busy intersection that killed Afif. Four people were killed and 14 wounded including two children, the Health Ministry said. I was asleep and awoke from the sound of the strike, and people screaming, and cars and gunfire," said witness Suheil Halabi. After the second strike in central Beirut, firefighters struggled to control the blaze in the busy residential neighborhood of Mar Elias. Bystanders said they heard a second explosion and a car nearby appeared to be hit. Hezbollah began firing rockets, missiles and drones into Israel the day after Hamas Oct. 7, 2023 attack ignited the war in Gaza. Israel launched retaliatory airstrikes in Lebanon and the conflict steadily escalated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israeli forces invaded Lebanon on Oct. 1. On Sunday, Israels military said mobile artillery batteries had crossed into Lebanon and began attacking Hezbollah targets, the first time artillery was launched within Lebanese territory. More than 3,400 people have been killed in Lebanon, according to the Health Ministry, and over 1.2 million driven from their homes. It is not known how many of the dead are Hezbollah fighters. Hezbollah has fired dozens of projectiles into Israel daily. The attacks have killed at least 76 people, including 31 soldiers, and caused some 60,000 people to flee. Israels Magen David Adom emergency service said a teenager suffered blast injuries Sunday in Upper Galilee. Lebanon's army, largely on the sidelines, said an Israeli strike on Sunday hit a military center in southeastern Al-Mari, killing two soldiers and wounding two others. There was no immediate Israeli comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Gaza, an escalation The director of the Kamal Adwan hospital in Beit Lahiya, Hosam Abu Safiya, said dozens were wounded in the Israeli strike and other people likely were under the rubble. Fleeing residents told the AP that houses were hit. An Israeli military statement earlier said it conducted several strikes on terrorist targets in Beit Lahiya, and that efforts to evacuate civilians from the active war zone continued. Israeli forces have again been on the offensive in northern Gaza, saying Hamas militants have regrouped. Tonight we did not sleep at all, said one fleeing Beit Lahiya resident, Dalal al-Bakri. They destroyed all the houses around us. ... There are many martyrs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A woman, Umm Hamza, said the bombing escalated overnight. Its cold and we dont know where to go, she said. Earlier, officials said Israeli strikes killed six people in Nuseirat and four in Bureij, two built-up refugee camps in central Gaza dating back to the 1948 war surrounding Israels creation. Two people were killed in a strike on Gazas main north-south highway, according to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in the central city of Deir al-Balah. Israels military said two soldiers were killed in northern Gaza on Sunday. The war between Israel and Hamas began after Palestinian militants stormed into Israel on Oct. 7. last year, killing about 1,200 people mostly civilians and abducting around 250 others. Around 100 hostages remain in Gaza, about a third believed to be dead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Sunday, Israels Shin Bet internal security agency said it met with the heads of the army and intelligence to discuss mediation efforts to release the hostages. It was the first public word of any such effort since Qatar announced earlier this month it was suspending its mediation work. Gaza's Health Ministry says around 43,800 Palestinians have been killed in the war. It does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but has said women and children make up more than half the dead. Around 90% of Gazas population of 2.3 million Palestinians have been displaced, and large areas have been flattened by Israeli bombardment and ground operations. Pope Francis has called for an investigation to determine if Israels attacks in Gaza constitute genocide, according to excerpts released Sunday from an upcoming book. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 3 arrested after flares fired at Netanyahu's home Israeli police arrested three suspects after two flares were fired overnight at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus private residence in the coastal city of Caesarea. Netanyahu and his family were not there, authorities said. A drone launched by Hezbollah struck the residence last month, also when they were away. The police did not provide details about the suspects, but officials pointed to domestic political critics of Netanyahu. The prime minister has faced months of mass protests. Critics blame him for security and intelligence failures that allowed the Oct. 7 attack to happen and for not reaching a deal with Hamas to release hostages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His government also faces anger from the ultra-Orthodox community over military draft notices. Some protested Sunday in the ultra-Orthodox city of Bnei Brak near Tel Aviv after the government said 7,000 new notices would be issued. ___ Shurafa reported from Deir al-Balah, Gaza Strip. Associated Press reporters Natalie Melzer in Tel Aviv, Israel, Melanie Lidman in Jerusalem and Kareem Chehayeb and Abby Sewell in Beirut contributed. ___ Find more of APs war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war BEIRUT (Reuters) -Lebanese armed group Hezbollah confirmed its media relations chief Mohammad Afif was killed by an Israeli strike on a building in central Beirut on Sunday. Israel has rarely hit senior Hezbollah personnel who do not have clear military roles, and its air strikes have mostly targeted Beirut's southern suburbs where the group has its heaviest presence. Israel's military, which earlier declined to comment, issued a statement late on Sunday reporting it had "eliminated" Afif. The Lebanese health ministry said the strike had killed one and injured three. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A second, separate strike later on Sunday hit Mar Elias street, another central area rarely targeted by Israeli bombs, Hezbollah's Al-Manar TV reported. The Lebanese health ministry said that strike killed at least two people and wounded 22. Hezbollah and Israel have been trading fire for more than a year, since the group began launching rockets at Israeli military targets on Oct. 8, 2023. That was a day after its Palestinian ally Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people, Israeli authorities say. In late September, Israel expanded its military campaign in Lebanon, heavily bombing the south and east and the southern suburbs of Beirut alongside ground incursions on the border. Israel's campaign in Lebanon has in the last year killed 3,841 people and wounded nearly 15,000 others, the Lebanese health ministry said on Sunday, a toll that did not distinguish between civilians and combatants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hezbollah rockets fired across the border have killed dozens of Israelis, including soldiers and civilians, Israel says. A separate assault on the Gaza Strip in Israel's war against Hamas has killed more than 43,000 people, most of them civilians, according to Palestinian health officials. LEBANESE SOLDIERS KILLED In addition to targeting Hezbollah, the escalation has killed several soldiers of the Lebanese military, including two who died on Sunday when Israel attacked an army post in the southern town of Al-Mari, the Lebanese army said on X. Two other soldiers were wounded, it said. The strike in Beirut targeting the Hezbollah official hit the Ras al-Nabaa neighbourhood, where many people displaced from the southern suburbs by Israeli bombardment have sought refuge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Lebanese security sources said a building housing offices of the Ba'ath Party had been hit, and the head of the party in Lebanon, Ali Hijazi, told the Lebanese broadcaster Al-Jadeed that Afif had been in the building. Ambulances could be heard rushing to the scene, and guns were fired to prevent crowds approaching. The Lebanese broadcaster showed video of a building whose upper floors had collapsed and civil defence workers at the scene. Afif was a long-time media adviser to Hezbollah secretary-general Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli air attack on the southern suburbs of Beirut on Sept. 27. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He managed Hezbollah's Al-Manar television station for several years before taking over the group's media office. Afif hosted several press conferences for journalists among rubble in Beirut's southern suburbs. In his most recent comments to reporters on Nov. 11, he said Israeli troops had been unable to hold any territory in Lebanon, and that Hezbollah had enough weapons and supplies to fight a long war. (Reporting by Beirut bureau; additional reporting by Menna Alaa El Din and Emily Rose; Editing by John Davison, Kevin Liffey, Andrew Cawthorne and Cynthia Osterman) Civil defense teams and locals flock to the attack site after an Israeli airstrike allegedly targets and kills Hezbollah spokesman Mohammed Afif in a building at Ras al-Nabaa neighborhood in Beirut, Lebanon on November 17, 2024 Credit - Murat Sengul/AnadoluGetty Images A rare Israeli airstrike on central Beirut killed Hezbollah's chief spokesman on Sunday, an official with the militant group said. Earlier, Israeli strikes killed at least 12 people in the Gaza Strip, officials said, where Israel has been at war with the Palestinian Hamas for over a year. The latest in a series of targeted killings of senior Hezbollah officials came as Lebanese officials were considering a United States-led cease-fire proposal. Israel also bombed several buildings in Beirut's southern suburbs, where Hezbollah has long been headquartered, after warning people to evacuate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mohammed Afif, the head of media relations for Hezbollah, was killed in a strike on the Arab socialist Baath party's office in central Beirut, according to a Hezbollah official who was not authorized to brief reporters and so spoke on condition of anonymity. Afif had remained especially visible after the eruption of all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah in September and the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, who was also targeted by an Israeli airstrike. Last month, Afif had hastily wrapped up a press conference in Beirut ahead of Israeli strikes. A rare strike on central Beirut An Associated Press photographer at the scene of Sunday's strike saw four lifeless bodies and four wounded people, but there was no official word on the toll. People could be seen fleeing the neighborhood. There was no comment from the Israeli military. I was asleep and awoke from the sound of the strike, and people screaming, and cars and gunfire," said Suheil Halabi, who witnessed the strike. "I was startled, honestly. This is the first time I experience it so close. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The last Israeli strike in central Beirut was on Oct. 10, when 22 people were killed in strikes on two locations. Hezbollah began firing rockets, missiles and drones into Israel the day after Hamas October 7, 2023 attack ignited the war in Gaza. Israel launched retaliatory airstrikes in Lebanon and the conflict steadily escalated, erupting into all-out war in September. Israeli forces invaded Lebanon on Oct. 1. Hezbollah has continued to fire dozens of projectiles into Israel each day and has expanded their range to the central part of the country. A rocket barrage on the northern city of Haifa on Saturday damaged a synagogue and wounded two civilians. More than 3,400 people have been killed in Lebanon, according to the countrys Health Ministry, and over 1.2 million driven from their homes. It is not known how many of the dead are Hezbollah fighters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the Israeli side, Hezbollahs aerial attacks have killed at least 76 people, including 31 soldiers, and caused some 60,000 people to flee from communities in the north. Overnight strikes in central Gaza kill 12 Israeli strikes killed six people in Nuseirat and another four in Bureij, two built-up refugee camps in central Gaza dating back to the 1948 war surrounding Israels creation. Another two people were killed in a strike on Gazas main north-south highway, according to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in the central city of Deir al-Balah, which received all 12 bodies. The war between Israel and Hamas began after Palestinian militants stormed into Israel on Oct. 7. last year, killing about 1,200 people mostly civilians and abducting around 250 others. Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, about a third of them believed to be dead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Health Ministry in Gaza says around 43,800 Palestinians have been killed in the war. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but has said women and children make up more than half the fatalities. Around 90% of Gazas population of 2.3 million Palestinians have been displaced, and large areas of the territory have been flattened by Israeli bombardment and ground operations. Israeli police arrest 3 after flares fired at Netanyahu's home Israeli police meanwhile arrested three suspects after flares were fired at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus private residence in the coastal city of Caesarea. Netanyahu and his family were not at the residence when two flares were fired at it overnight, and there were no injuries, authorities said. A drone launched by Hezbollah struck the residence last month, also when Netanyahu and his family were away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The police did not provide details about the suspects behind the flares, but officials pointed to domestic political critics of Netanyahu. Israels largely ceremonial president, Isaac Herzog, condemned the incident and warned against an escalation of the violence in the public sphere. Netanyahu has faced months of mass protests. Critics blaming him for the security and intelligence failures that allowed the Oct. 7 attack to happen and for not reaching a deal with Hamas to release scores of hostages still held inside Gaza. Israelis rallied again in the city of Tel Aviv on Saturday night to demand a cease-fire deal to return them. Israeli minister looks to revive polarizing judiciary overhaul Israeli Justice Minister Yariv Levin seized on the flare attack on Netanyahu's home to call for a revival of his plans to overhaul the Israeli judiciary, which had sparked months of mass protests before the war. The time has come to provide full support for the restoration of the justice system and the law enforcement systems, and to put an end to anarchy, rampage, refusal, and attempts to harm the prime minister, he said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Supporters said the judiciary changes aim to strengthen democracy by circumscribing the authority of unelected judges and turning over more powers to elected officials. Opponents see the overhaul as a power grab by Netanyahu, who is on trial on corruption charges and for an assault on a key watchdog. Many Israelis believe the fierce internal divisions caused by the attempted overhaul had weakened the country and its military ahead of the Hamas assault. Opposition Leader Yair Lapid said in a post on X that he strongly condemns the firing of flares at Netanyahus home while blasting Levins proposal. Levin should go home with rest of this irresponsible government, Lapid wrote. We will not let him turn Israel into an undemocratic state. Contact us at letters@time.com. Tennessee Titans linebacker Jack Gibbens has been ruled out of Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings after suffering a right ankle injury. The injury occurred with 10:55 left in the third quarter on an Aaron Jones rush, fumble and fumble recovery. Gibbens' right leg was quickly put in an air cast, and he left the field at Nissan Stadium on a cart. Titans coach Brian Callahan acknowledged the injury after the game and said that Gibbens is likely out for the rest of the season. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gibbens led the Titans in tackles in each of the past two games, but had not recorded a tackle in Sunday's game. Jerome Baker, acquired via trade from Seattle in the deal that sent Ernest Jones IV to the Seahawks, should get the bulk of the linebacker snaps alongside Kenneth Murray. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Jack Gibbens injury update: Titans LB out after serious ankle injury (Bloomberg) -- Japanese troops will regularly deploy to train alongside US rotational forces in Australias north starting from 2025, the latest move by the three nations to strengthen their security ties in the face of growing strategic competition with China. Most Read from Bloomberg Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin held a meeting with Japans Defense Minister Gen Nakatani and Australias Defence Minister Richard Marles in Darwin, northern Australia, on Sunday. It is a very important statement to the region and to the world about the commitment that our three countries have in working with each other, Marles said at a press conference announcing the decision on Sunday. The deployments are expected to begin from next year, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corp. Subscribe to The Bloomberg Australia Podcast on Apple, Spotify, on YouTube, or wherever you listen. Marles, who is also Australias deputy prime minister, said Tokyo and Canberra had been looking at ways to utilize their reciprocal military access agreement which was signed by both nations in January 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the obvious opportunities was for Japan to participate in activities when the US marine rotation is in place in Darwin, Marles said in an interview on Sky News on Sunday. He also said that Japans Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade had been invited to train with US and Australian forces. The US has been strengthening its security arrangements with regional partners in the face of growing strategic competition with the Chinese government. In July, Austin signed an upgraded security agreement with Japan and South Korea, while the Aukus pact to supply Australia with nuclear-powered submarines by the 2030s has progressed in the US Congress. Asked whether he expected the announcement to provoke the Chinese government, Marles said Australia would engage with the friends and allies it chooses. Ultimately this is a matter for Australia, Japan and the US in terms of their presence in Darwin with the marine rotation, Marles said. Thats the focus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (Updates with more details and comments) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. CANBERRA, Australia (AP) Japan will send troops for joint training with U.S. Marines and Australian forces in northern Australia, the countries' defense ministers said Sunday, as they expressed concern about a spate of confrontations with China's increasingly assertive military. Australia's Defense Minister Richard Marles hosted his U.S. and Japanese counterparts, Lloyd Austin and Nakatani Gen for talks in Darwin. The ministers announced trilateral amphibious training between Australia, Japan and the U.S. Marine rotational force in northern Australia from 2025, beginning with Exercise Talisman Sabre. Australia will also join Exercise Orient Shield in Japan for the first time next year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A joint statement reiterated serious concern about destabilising actions in the East and South China seas including dangerous conduct by the Chinese military against Philippine and other vessels from the region. China claims the South China Sea almost in its entirety. The ministers also urged the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. China claims self-ruled Taiwan as its own territory and has stepped up military harassment with frequent drills around the island. Marles, who is also Australia's defense minister, said following talks with his Japanese counterpart in September that both nations looked to ways to build greater familiarity between their forces. One of the obvious opportunities was for Japan to participate in activities during the U.S. Marine rotation in Australia, he said Sunday. Having a more forward-leaning opportunity for greater training with Japan and the U.S. together is a really fantastic opportunity, he said. Asked if the increased military cooperation would anger Beijing, Marles said the decision was about building "the best relationships possible with like-minded countries, with our friends and with our allies. By Mariko Katsumura TOKYO (Reuters) - Japanese authorities seeking to reduce the carbon footprint and overcrowding at Mount Fuji will propose a trackless, rubber-tyred tram system made by China's CRRC to transport climbers, a person with direct knowledge of the plan said. The new proposal, which has not been previously reported, would replace the original plan to build a light-rail system connecting the base to the fifth hiking station of the popular Yoshida Trail, which goes to the top, after a local city and other parties, voiced concern over its environmental and cost impact. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yamanashi Prefecture, home of the most popular route used by climbers of the 3,776-metre (12,3388-foot) volcano, is set to announce the plan soon, the person told Reuters, asking for anonymity because the information is not yet public. Mount Fuji, which straddles Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan, whose numbers have surged in recent years. Pollution from the constant stream of tourist buses and cars arriving at the fifth station, as well as overcrowding on the trails, have become headaches for authorities seeking to clean up the site, which Japanese people hold sacred. Mount Fuji was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2013, further boosting its appeal. But the distinction came on the condition that Japan reduce overcrowding, environmental harm from visitors, and fix the artificial landscape, such as the large parking lots constructed to accommodate tourists. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shanghai-listed CRRC's "Autonomous Rapid Transit" is a new-generation tram that uses magnetic road markings and can be operated unmanned. Yamanashi prefecture plans to use locally produced hydrogen to power the tram, the source said. The transit system is expected to slash the project's cost by as much as 40% from the roughly 140 billion yen ($895 million) estimated for the rail system, said the source. The new plan would allow the prefecture to use the existing Fuji Subaru Line toll road and prohibit the entry of all private vehicles and sightseeing buses, the person said. The prefecture hopes to conduct a pilot run as early as the next fiscal year starting in April. Yamanashi is also aiming to build a tram network that would extend to local municipalities and connect to a magnetic levitation rail system planned by Central Japan Railway in the 2030s, the person said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yamanashi prefecture declined to comment on the plan. During the summer climbing season between July to September this year, the mountain hosted 204,316 climbers. Authorities have said they hoped to control the number of visitors through a public transit system. ($1 = 156.3500 yen) (This story has been refiled to clarify that the trail, not the tram, goes to the top in paragraph 2) (Reporting by Mariko Katsumura; Editing by Chang-Ran Kim, Christian Schmollinger and William Mallard) House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said he has no issues with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, telling NBCs Kristen Welker that he does not think she is undermining him with her election comments. "I think Speaker Emerita Pelosi has been incredibly respectful of the entire leadership team. It's an honor to stand on the shoulders of Speaker Nancy Pelosi, an incredibly consequential public servant in the history of America, the New York Democrat said Sunday on "Meet the Press." Jeffries was poised to become the first Black speaker of the House if Democrats had won the House majority. When asked if he thought Pelosi was undermining his leadership with her public pronouncements, he answered with a decisive: "No." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House Democrats, we're proud of the new leadership team. We're looking forward to confronting the challenges we have to face on the behalf of the American people, he added. Certain Democrats think Pelosi, who left the leadership after the 2022 elections, should step down to help Jeffries lead the caucus, Axios reported Friday. This follows an interview that Pelosi gave to the New York Times in which she suggested President Joe Biden should have dropped out of the race sooner. Jeffries skirted around the same the question, praising Bidens choice to drop out. "I think that President Biden will go down in history as one of the most consequential presidents of all time and I was thankful for all the work we were able to do together. He did make the decision it was a selfless decision to pass the torch to Vice President Kamala Harris and she ran with it and did the best job she could under incredibly challenging circumstances and a little over 100 days, he said. She came close, but we fell short. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans have won 218 House seats for the next Congress, Democrats have won 212, and 5 remain undecided. As a result of falling short, Democrats are now dealing with the fallout of President-elect Donald Trumps Cabinet choices, which many, from both the right and left, are critiquing. The incoming president throughout the campaign promised the American people that we would have the best economy, the best border security and the best administration possible, Jeffries said. The question that has to be asked is this the best that we can do? He continued: Of course not. America deserves better. Hopefully, we'll see the Senate Republicans do their job, scrutinize these picks, certainly confirm those that meet the basic level of qualifications and reject others." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In specific reference to former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, who Trump picked as director of national intelligence, Jeffries said he would not characterize her as a Russian asset at this particular juncture, as his colleague Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) called her on Friday. I'm open to scrutinizing whatever information is presented to all of us, but this is going to fall on Senate Democrats and Republicans, Jeffries said. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) said Sunday that his bias would be to vote for the people that President Trump wants for the upcoming administration. My bias would be to vote for the people that President Trump wants to serve [by in his] administration, Johnson told NewsNations Chris Stirewalt on The Hill Sunday. Again, as a U.S. senator, Im probably the minority view here; I dont particularly like being the human resource department of administration. Again, the top picks, lifetime appointments, I have no problem with that, but you start getting down to the lesser agencies here, or positions, its really ridiculous what we do, Johnson continued, adding that hed much rather spend time on oversight and investigations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President-elect Trump has selected a few controversial people for roles in his incoming administration, including right-wing firebrand and former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) for attorney general. While Gaetz had been a strong supporter of the president-elect during his time in Congress, he also had some rough relationships within his party, notably having an ongoing public feud with ex-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.). Gaetz will most likely have to earn votes in the upper chamber to claim the role of attorney general, and although Republicans will have control of the Senate next year, GOP senators have expressed reservations about casting their votes for him. The Florida Republican, who resigned from the House immediately after the announcement, has recently been the subject of a probe by the House Ethics Committee looking into whether he took part in sexual misconduct and illicit drug use, alongside other allegations. He has denied allegations of wrongdoing, but Gaetzs resignation essentially kills the probe by taking himself out of the panels jurisdiction. Johnson said Sunday that he had not seen the Ethics report on Matt Gaetz, but he also said that Trumps pick for attorney general is an incredibly effective advocate for the president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NewsNation is owned by Nexstar Media Group, which also owns The Hill. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Security forces continued their joint search operation in the jungles of Abujhmad at Kanker in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region for the third consecutive day on Sunday, a day after five Naxals were killed in an encounter in the area. The joint search operation involves personnel of district reserve guards (DRG), special task force (STF), Bastar Fighters and Border Security Force (BSF), officials said. Two jawans were also injured in the gunfight that broke out between security forces and naxals on Saturday. A large cache of weapons was also recovered during the exchange of fire between security forces and Naxals in the Abujhmadh jungle on the Kanker-Narayanpur border in Chhattisgarh. According to Chhattisgarh Police, security forces initiated a search operation on Friday night. Inspector General (IG) of the Bastar Range, Sundarraj P had said, "An exchange of fire took place between the security forces and the Naxalites many times. After conducting the search operation of the area, the dead bodies of five Naxalites including two women were recovered. Weapons were also recovered." "Two jawans were also injured in the operations and have been admitted to the hospital. Their condition is stable," he added. Previously, on November 9, the bodies of three Naxals, including a platoon commander with a bounty of Rs 8 lakh, were recovered following an encounter in the Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh, a senior police official said. (ANI) House Speaker Mike Johnson has refused to rule out the use of recess appointments to appoint Donald Trumps cabinet nominations of Pete Hegseth and Matt Gaetz without Senate approval. In an interview on Fox News Sunday with Shannon Bream, Johnson said the constitutional loophole could have some function in getting his nominations through. He also said that there would be a process of evaluation at the appropriate time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I believe in the principle of a new president being able to choose his team, and that used to not be a controversial notion, Johnson said. Were at a time of very divided government and a very partisan atmosphere in Washington. I wish it were not. I wish the Senate would simply do its job of advice and consent and allow the President to put the persons in his cabinet of his choosing. But if this thing bogs down, it would be a great detriment to the country, to the American people. Johnson claimed that such a power grab may be necessary to follow through on Trumps promises to his voters. Well evaluate all that at the appropriate time, and well make the appropriate decision. There may be a function for [recess appointments], and well have to see how it plays out, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recess appointments are an archaic loophole in the U.S. Constitution that has been suggested as a possible way for Trump to get his nominations through without due scrutiny. It allows presidents to make appointments for official positions when Congress is not in session for a period of time. Given the nature of the appointment as being a temporary one in extraordinary circumstances, cabinet selections would only last up to one year in the official positions, or until the end of a congressional session. Senators would first need to vote for recess to take place. There is no guarantee it would, with Republicans such as Lisa Murkowski of Alaska showing their opposition to Trumps picks by claiming that Gaetz was not a serious nomination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is precedent for recess appointments in recent presidential terms, with Bill Clinton and George W Bush racking up over a hundred appointments each, according to Congressional Research Service. The Supreme Court ruled against former president Obama in 2014 for various appointments they deemed unconstitutional. But the loophole has not been used to fill important cabinet roles as president-elect Trump has suggested. In a podcast appearance, Jon Stewart dismissed the idea that Democrats need their own Joe Rogan. The suggestion, he said, always comes from "people that have never really listened to him." Rogan, Stewart said, talks to everyone with curiosity, which Stewart suggested Dems need more of. Jon Stewart seems to think the idea that Democrats need their own Joe Rogan-type media personality to balance the podcast giant's support for President-elect Donald Trump is laughable. In a Thursday appearance on his "The Weekly Show" podcast, Stewart chuckled at a listener's question relayed to him by his producer, Brittany Mehmedovic about who the democrat version of Joe Rogan could be. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I think that's oversimplifying Joe Rogan," Stewart said. "I mean, as somebody who does listen to Joe Rogan, like, I don't know what I would necessarily classify him as he has some ideas that I think are wildly progressive, other ideas that are probably, I would less agree with." Rogan's podcast has a massive audience, largely made up of young men. The former "Fear Factor" host made headlines late in the campaign cycle when he, after months of avoiding an explicit endorsement, backed Trump's reelection bid. Some Democrats have since suggested his draw with young voters should be replicated with a liberal-leaning media personality of their own. Rogan's political leanings have varied over the years. He previously endorsed Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, a progressive candidate, in his 2020 election campaign. He later said he'd rather vote for Trump than President Joe Biden before formally backing Trump in 2024. He has regularly featured conservative guests on his show, including provocative pundits like Matt Walsh and Ben Shapiro, drawing criticism from some liberal listeners who argue commentators who espouse seemingly racist or sexist views shouldn't be featured on the podcast. But Stewart said Democrats should consider Rogan as more than a partisan media figure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Bernie went on Joe Rogan, which I think was exactly the right thing to do," Stewart said, referring to Sen. Sanders' 2019 appearance on the show. The suggestion that Democrats should build their own version of Rogan, he said, always comes from "people that have never really listened to him." Sen. Sanders has also pushed back on the partisan criticism of Rogan, telling CNN's "State of the Union" last week that the current Democratic party has a problem "vilifying" its critics like Rogan. "Look, you're going to have an argument with Rogan, agree with him, disagree with him," Sanders said. "But, what's the problem with going on those shows? It's hard for me to understand that." Read the original article on Business Insider PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) An Oregon salmon program is under the spotlight after LGBTQ+ personality and comedian Jonathan Van Ness posed a question to their audience during a stop in Portland and then recently posted the video to social media pages. I was doing a little pre-research for the show, Van Ness explained onstage at Helium Comedy Club on Oct. 11. But is it true that you guys get to raise salmon in school? From like a little egg? So, it starts as an egg and then you guys rear it to an adult salmon? the Emmy Award-winner asked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scientists record highest number of steelhead to return to Deschutes River since 1960s One audience member said Oregonians dont hatch the eggs in class before another audience member said they do, to which Van Ness jokingly said, Oh my God, Im going to start a fight. Dont freak out you guys, I know that its like outdoors. I know we have to protect the f-ing salmon, you guys, Van Ness said. A Nov. 8 clip of the stand-up bit made its way to Reed Fischer, an Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife biologist with the Salmon Trout Enhancement Program. I saw his comedy bit and I wanted to scream out the right answer because the audience didnt know and it was driving me nuts, as one of the people who runs the program, Fischer said of the Queer Eye stars bit. I was hoping hed stick around and do a new style or something for me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Positively Portland Van Ness is right, some Oregon students do raise salmon. ODFWs Salmon Trout Enhancement Program started in the 80s and teaches kids everything from fishing to habitat restoration. Their most popular program is called Fish Eggs to Fry, which gives classrooms 100-150 eggs, so students have a hands-on experience raising salmon themselves. So often, we sort of just talk at people, we lecture them, and its not as effective as having them do it themselves. So, most of our programs are designed around a hands-on philosophy, Fischer told KOIN 6 News. Eggs to Fry is our most popular and somehow it made it to Hollywood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arctic fox found in Portland is headed to Wisconsin to join male partner The Eggs to Fry is something that has kind of woven itself into Oregon culture, and I run into people who did it as kids, and every now and then I hear about it from someone youd never expect, Fischer said. According to Fischer, the program grows by about 50 classrooms every year and is currently in 750 locations across the state reaching roughly 60,000 students per year. The program is mostly run by volunteers and isnt limited to schools, so other institutions such as hospitals or libraries can also sign up. I find, for me, this program is important because it opens the door for so many other conversations. So, when we bring fish in, theres obviously the lesson about raising fish and how difficult they are to keep alive and that kind of leads to so many other things. We can talk about harvesting, we can talk about farming, or dams, or politics, or Indigenous populations, or cultures. Theres so many conversations that it opens up, Fischer said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oregon Zoo polar bears relish National Pickle Day Eggs to Fry is also beneficial for all students no matter their academic interests, the biologist added. Even if you arent a hardcore biology student or a scientist and youre into art, well, theres fish art to be made out of this program, or some kids write songs about it and its really cool in the sense that it not only reaches everybody, but theyre also really excited about it. When you get in the classroom, I have yet to see a student whos not excited to have us come in and for whatever reason, fish in particular, salmon are something that that everybody agrees on. Everybody loves washing them in the river, or everybody loves seeing them swim around the tank, Fischer said. It reaches every part of Oregon life. I always remind the students, Hey, you guys are Oregonians. How cool is it that you get to grow up with this in your backyard? And, for me, the benefit is having students realize, like that creek 10 yards from you has these monster fish in them and most people dont know, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Portland City Council considers $120 million Streetcar expansion to Montgomery Park After the eggs hatch, one of Fischers favorite parts of the program is when students release the fry into streams, noting the kids care about these streams for the rest of their lives. I just talked to a guy who did this 30 years ago and he still thinks that little stream he released those salmon, its his stream, you know, something he really cares about, Fischer said. Its kind of an emotional benefit to everybody. As the program continues to grow, Fischer told KOIN 6 News that Van Ness is invited to come up here to work with us and Oregons fish anytime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. Carroll County sheriff's deputies seized four journalists' cameras on Oct. 18 after they say they filmed vans carrying the jury to the double murder trial of Richard Allen. Three days later, Special Judge Frances Gull returned the cameras to the journalists, including Alex Martin of the USA TODAY Network's Lafayette Courier & Journal. Today, even after a jury found Allen guilty of the 2017 kidnapping and murder of Abigail "Abby" Williams and Liberty "Libby" German, the sheriff's office has not returned the memory cards from Martin's cameras. The cameras' seizure in public space outside of the Delphi courtroom, and from a photojournalist who actually complied when ordered not to record the vans' arrival was indicative of the lengths Gull and Carroll County officials went to ensure the high-profile trial was orderly and without distraction from the media or public at large. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From a gag order preventing involved law enforcement, witnesses, lawyers and families from speaking publicly about the case to strict rules that prevented the use of any electronic device in the courtroom, Gull made full use of her prerogative to, as she wrote in her pretrial decorum order, "ensure the integrity of the proceedings, to protect the Defendant's constitutional rights for due process, to ensure the safety of the parties and the public, and to permit public access to criminal proceedings." Allen's trial attracted international interest across a broad swath of society, including some true crime devotees who developed an unhealthy obsession with the case and investment in the trial's outcome. Conspiracy theories and speculation swirled on social media. Members of the general public and media waited outside the courthouse for hours, often in the dark and cold, for a chance to see the proceedings firsthand. Many, including credentialed media, were regularly turned away when the courtroom filled. Gull, who retired Morgan County Judge Jane Craney called "a fine judge and a fine person," doesn't suffer fools. Nor should she. The judge admonished people for falling asleep in the courtroom during the trial, and felt it necessary to remind people to walk, not run, in the courthouse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As is often the case, bad behavior by a few led to restrictions for the many who were playing by the rules. Something was lost to these limitations that ultimately resulted in reporters passing handwritten notes on the verdict amongst each other like the middle school students they'd been treated as. Permitting public access to the trial was the last priority listed in Gull's decorum order. It was treated thusly so. Indiana media coalition cleared significant access hurdles in Delphi trial Court TV senior producer Barbara MacDonald holds a sign showing the verdict Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, at the Carroll County Courthouse in Delphi, Ind. Richard Allen was found guilty on all four counts. Here's where I'll pause to take a tonal shift. Yes, I'm concerned about the potential implications of Gull's broad use of her discretion to limit public and media access to Allen's trial for future high-profile cases in Indiana. Even those in the gallery didn't see the full picture as TVs were turned so only the judge, jury, defense and prosecution could see certain evidence. Given the subject matter, that might be considered by some a kindness. From a public access standpoint, however, this trial set an extremely low bar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But here's where Indiana's press corps collaborated to fill a critical need. Each week, a coalition of print and broadcast outlets managed the 12 allotted media seats in the courtroom and shared handwritten notes from designated pool reporters with those outlets that didn't get in the courtroom. Reporters checked facts and answered questions from their competitors from other newsrooms. The state broadcast association funded a sketch artist to provide the public its only look inside a courtroom where cameras were banned. Everyone's handwriting was surprisingly legible, a considerable concern when accuracy is paramount. Special recognition goes to WTHR-TV Assistant News Director Cyndee Hebert, who kept the coalition running through the trial, and to IndyStar Managing Editor Cindi Andrews for spearheading ample pretrial planning. You wouldn't have gotten the news, wherever you got it, without their considerable efforts. I'm also grateful for all of my USA TODAY Network colleagues who reported from Fort Wayne and Delphi, or provided remote support. Veteran Journal & Courier reporter Ron Wilkins was in court nearly every day of the trial, with IndyStar reporters Sarah Nelson and Jordan Smith working late into each night on extended coverage. Kristine Phillips, Jen Guadarrama, Virginia Black and Jenny Porter Tilley all provided critical support to our reporters in Delphi. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All told, more than 20 USA TODAY Network journalists worked tirelessly over the last five weeks to bring you trustworthy, accurate and authoritative coverage of the trial. Our coverage of this trial will be a point of pride at IndyStar for years to come. As always, it's an honor to serve you. Thank you for reading IndyStar. Eric Larsen is IndyStar executive editor. Reach him at ericlarsen@indystar.com. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Delphi murder trial restrictions curtailed public access to case A Jackson County jury convicted a Kansas City man Friday of second-degree murder after a fatal July shooting that led to an hours-long standoff with police. Juan Maiden, 70, is convicted of second-degree murder, unlawful use of a weapon and two counts of armed criminal action. The jury recommended a life sentence on the murder conviction and 15 years on the other convictions, according to the Jackson County Prosecutors Office. The murder conviction is in connection with a July 23 shooting that killed a woman at a home in Kansas Citys North Blue Ridge neighborhood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers were dispatched to the 500 block of Booth Avenue after a shooting call around 9:30 p.m. Outside, they found the victims sister and a neighbor, who told officers Maiden shot the victim and was still inside, police said in a probable cause affidavit. Police were unable to enter through the front door, so they broke out a window. Inside, they found a woman in the hallway with an apparent gunshot wound to her head, according to the affidavit. Officers got the victim out of the residence through the window, and she was taken to a hospital where she was later pronounced dead. A witness told police she was in a bedroom talking to the victim when Maiden walked in and shot her unprovoked with a handgun, according to the affidavit. The witness said Maiden stood over the victim and shot her two more times after she fell to the ground. The witness said she hit Maiden in the head and face and was able to get the gun out of his hand and call the police. After a nearly nine-hour standoff, officers found Maiden in the basement of the home suffering from injuries to his head and face, according to the affidavit. Police said Maiden appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was taken to a hospital for treatment, and upon his release, was interviewed by police. Maidens interview with police Maiden allegedly told police he was in the living room attempting to install a ceiling fan and that one of the witnesses had the victims handgun. Allegedly, she began spinning the handgun around her finger, and it discharged twice, striking the victim, he said. Maiden said he attempted to take the gun from her but was unable to disarm her. The witness allegedly began hitting him with the firearm, so he went to the basement, he told police. He said he fell asleep there and was awoken by a member of the Kansas City Police Department. At the scene, police found a pool of blood on the floor in a bedroom, the affidavit said. Officers found two 9mm shell casings and one live 9mm round in the hallway outside of the bedroom. Two bullet holes were located in the floor of the hallway, according to the affidavit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two more spent 9mm casings were found in the living room, along with a live 9mm round, police said. Officers found a black 9mm handgun in the living room. Maiden was indicted by a grand jury on the charges on Aug. 15. His sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled. Nov. 16The Alaska Department of Corrections was negligent in its care of a woman who suffered severe brain injuries in a suicide attempt but is not liable for her injuries, an Anchorage jury found Thursday. The jury returned a verdict in the monthlong civil case on Thursday morning, according to the Alaska Court System. The verdict found that the department's negligence was not a "substantial factor in causing harm to the Plaintiff and awarded no damages," according to the jury form. The plaintiff's attorneys had asked for $35 million in damages, for her medical care and the loss of life potential. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabby Chipps of Ninilchik was 20 when she was arrested in 2020 on an assault charge and taken to Wildwood Correctional Center in Kenai, her attorneys said at trial. She'd never before been in prison. After several weeks of incarceration and signs of mental deterioration, she attempted suicide in an isolation cell and suffered an anoxic brain injury. Chipps now requires 24-hour-a-day medical care, which her attorneys said is provided at home by her family. A decision on who will pay for attorney fees in the case is still being litigated, according to the Alaska Court System. The Department of Law said in a statement that the case was tragic but the jury recognized "her injury is not the state's fault simply because she was inside a state facility." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Sometimes tragic events happen, and no one is to blame," Alaska Attorney General Treg Taylor said in a Department of Law statement. Chipps' mother, Holly Chipps, said the case was "painful" and "raw." "It's not just individuals but families that are affected," she wrote. "This is not just Gabby's story, but really so many who have lost." The Enquirer's Just Askin' series aims to answer the questions that no one seems to have an answer for, not even Google. Thanksgiving is right around the corner, but not everyone has the resources to have a big turkey dinner. It's why local organizations have stepped up to fill that need with free meal distributions the week of Thanksgiving. How many pounds of turkey do Cincinnati organizations serve during Thanksgiving meal distributions? A breakdown of three of the largest meal distributions in the Cincinnati area: Freestore Foodbank The Freestore Foodbank holds several meal distribution events during Thanksgiving week. This year there are five separate distributions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The nonprofit typically distributes over 1,000 meals during the holidays, which include a turkey. That is nearly 200,000 pounds of turkey for the holidays, according to Trisha Rayner, Freestore Foodbank chief development officer and VP of external affairs. Turkeys go out to the food pantry's 20-county service area and through Bea Taylor Market and Liberty Street Market, as well as its drive-thru distributions in partnership with the Reds Academy, Cincinnati Bengals and St. Elizabeth Hospital. Freestore purchases nearly all the turkeys in advance of the holidays, but typically receives just under 500 birds from donors. Upcoming distributions are: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thursday, Nov. 21 : 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Reds Community Fund, 2026 E. Seymour Ave. in Roselawn. Thursday, Nov. 21: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Incompass Health Care, 1037 W. Main St. in Vevay, Indiana. Thursday, Nov. 21: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Dearborn Clearinghouse, 411 George St. in Aurora, Indiana. Saturday, Nov. 23: 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Immanuel Church, 1440 Boone Aire Road in Florence, Kentucky. Tuesday, Nov. 26: 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Fifth Third Operations Center, 5050 Kingsley Drive in Madisonville. St. Vincent de Paul Each year St. Vincent de Paul distributes Thanksgiving meal kits, including a turkey and all the fixings. In 2023, St. Vincent de Paul distributed more than 1,000 Thanksgiving meals during the annual food drive. Donation statistics were not available. This year the distribution will be held Nov. 26 at the Neyer Outreach Center, located at 1146 Bank St. in the West End. The event will start at 9 a.m. and will continue until all meals are distributed. Fall Feast from Give Back Cincinnati Local nonprofit Give Back Cincinnati holds a Thanksgiving meal distribution each year at Duke Energy Convention Center. Fall Feast is one of the biggest holiday meal distributions in the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year they went through 625 pounds of turkey, 1,080 pounds of green beans, 42 gallons of gravy and 200 pies. This all helped to serve 1,500 meals, according to Give Back Cincinnati president Jordan Klette-Cusher. Fall Feast is canceled this year due to the ongoing renovations at Duke Energy Convention Center, but it will return next year. Do you have a question for Just Askin? Send it to us at localnews@enquirer.com. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Thanksgiving meal distributions: How much Cincinnati nonprofits serve MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) In life, Mica Miller loved music, her community and her faith. All three were on display Saturday as part of a daylong event honoring the life of a woman whose April suicide sparked a national conversation about domestic violence awareness and prevention. I know that she would be so very excited to be here for all of this, so we are here standing for Mica and honoring her and everything that she did for his community, said her sister, Abigail Francis. For so many people to be out here is just incredible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Micas Benefit Concert, hosted by WayMakers, ran from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Grand Park in The Market Common and featured bands, a kids zone, raffle giveaways, vendors, food trucks and local business sponsors. Timeline: The saga of John-Paul and Mica Miller Controversy has swirled around Micas husband John-Paul Miller and his embattled Solid Rock Ministries since she was found dead in late April at the Lumber River State Park in Robeson County. Her death was eventually ruled a suicide, but the case prompted nationwide interest because of allegations that she was abused by John-Paul before her death. Dozens of those closest to Mica showed their support on Saturday, while also bringing awareness to her charity, Waymakers. News13 photo / Hannah Huffstickler The Socastee High School band, where Mica attended, were among those that performed, and pictures of her lined the road leading into the park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She believed that God is the one and only waymaker, so we are out here showing that God makes a way for everything, Francis said. Micas best friend Charlotte Korn said she was inspired not only by Saturdays turnout, but the impact her story has had on so many who werent there. Its just so encouraging, such a blessing to see all of the lives she has touched, and how much she means to everybody, Korn said. They come out and support not just her, but the family and the cause, its been really amazing. * * * Hannah Huffstickler is a multimedia journalist at News13. She joined the News13 team in January 2024 after graduating from Coastal Carolina University in December of 2023. Keep up with Hannah on Facebook, X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram. You can also read more of her work here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * * * Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) A woman in her twenties was shot and killed in the Highland neighborhood in Shreveport during mid-November. Kali Lynch-Roberts, 29, was at a residence in the 100 block of East Herndon Street when she was shot and killed around 1:00 a.m. Her killing marks the 17th homicide in Caddo Parish this year. Its the 44th homicide in Shreveport in 2024. An autopsy has been ordered by Shreveport police, who are investigating Lynch-Roberts death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com. Nov. 16A convicted rapist given a suspended sentence in Flathead County District Court in 2023 is now facing the same charge in Lake County. Fabian Alexander Perez-Calderon, 25, pleaded not guilty Nov. 13 to one count of felony sexual intercourse without consent in the 20th Judicial District Court, which covers Lake and Sanders counties. He remains in the Lake County Jail with bail set at $50,000. Prosecutors accused Perez-Calderon of raping a woman he met through Facebook. The victim, who came forward to the authorities in March 2024, told investigators the two agreed to meet offline, according to court documents. Perez-Calderon allegedly agreed to bring alcohol. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When they got together, Perez-Calderon aggressively attempted to kiss the victim, court documents said. She asked him to leave, a request she believed he had complied with. While in bed a little later, the victim looked up to find Perez-Calderon allegedly standing naked in her room. He grabbed her hair, prompting her to cry and tell him he was hurting her, court documents said. "Don't you find me attractive?" he allegedly asked her before pulling off her shorts. Perez-Calderon put his hand over her throat and hair before raping her, court documents said. Perez-Calderon remains on probation for a rape conviction in Flathead County District Court. In March 2023, Judge Robert Allison gave Perez-Calderon a 10-year suspended sentence for allegedly raping a woman in a car following a bonfire party in 2022. He was also designated a level one sex offender and ordered to undergo sex offender treatment. Allison simultaneously gave Perez-Calderon a suspended five-year sentence in an unrelated case dating back to 2021. In that case, Perez-Calderon was accused of punching and beating a man with a skateboard. Allison ordered him to pay $4,149.52 in restitution to the victim. Jammu Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) President Farooq Abdullah on Sunday said that the NC-Congress government in the Union Territory is doing 'very well' and assured of fulfilling all promises made in their election manifesto. "Our government is going very well...we will fulfil the promises made in our manifesto in 5 years," JKNC President Abdullah told reporters. When asked about PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti's statement, asking JKNC to make its stand clear on article 370 he said, "... She should not make such statements...our manifesto is clear about this (Article 370) ..." Earlier on Saturday, National Conference President Farooq Abdullah reaffirmed his commitment to restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, expressing confidence that it will be achieved. "How many days have passed since the new government was formed? How many weeks? Will the statehood come from the sky? I have no doubt that we will get the statehood," Abdullah told reporters. The state was bifurcated into two Union Territories following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. Political parties in the state have been demanding early restoration of statehood. Responding to 'Katenge toh batenge", Abdullah said that India will become strong when diversity is strengthened "What does it mean? What is this slogan? I don't understand what it means... What does 'Katenge, batenge' mean?... I don't know. What are we if we are not one? Is India not one? India has unity in diversity. India will become strong when diversity is strengthened," Abdullah added. Farooq Abdullah also expressed grief over the loss of children in the Jhansi fire incident, urging the government to provide swift assistance and launch an investigation into the fire incident. The tragedy unfolded when a fire, suspected to have been caused by a short circuit in an oxygen concentrator, quickly spread in the highly oxygenated environment of the NICU, claiming the lives of 10 newborns. The tragedy has left grieving families devastated, with many still searching for their missing children. (ANI) A Jackson County judge sentenced a Kansas City man to 23 years in prison for the 2023 fatal shooting in which the victims body was dumped from a car and left in the street, according to the Jackson County Prosecutors Office. Ibrahim Abdikarim Sharif Ahmed, 39, was sentenced to 18 years in prison after pleading guilty to second-degree murder and five years in prison after he pleaded guilty to armed criminal action, prosecutors said. The judge on Friday set the sentences to run consecutively for a total of 23 years in prison. Because Sharif Ahmed was allegedly intoxicated during the incident, he was able to plead guilty without admitting to the crime through an Alford plea, which allows a defendant to do so while accepting the sentence, the prosecutors office said in a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police found the victim, 30-year-old Abdullahi Yussuf, lying unresponsive near the intersection of Independence Avenue and Olive Street just before 9 p.m. on March 15, 2023. Video surveillance previously obtained by The Star shows a red Dodge Challenger stopping in the middle of the road around 8:50 p.m. and driving away minutes later. Yussufs body can be seen after the Challenger leaves. Kansas City police arrived on the scene just before 9 p.m. Yussuf was taken to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. According to documents filed in Jackson County Circuit Court, a witness told detectives a group drove to a McDonalds on Independence Avenue around 7 p.m. that evening before dropping another passenger off at an apartment complex. After leaving the complex, the victim allegedly told Ahmed, who was driving, to be careful because he was messing up the car. Sharif Ahmed allegedly responded that it was fine. The witness told detectives she put her head down to finish a text message when she heard five gunshots. She looked up and saw Yussufs face covered in blood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Sharif Ahmed continued to drive, he allegedly told the witness to get Yussufs body out of the car. The witness told detectives she was afraid, so she helped push the victim onto the street. The witness then asked Sharif Ahmed if he could drop her off near her home. Sharif Ahmed then allegedly fired several shots out through the passenger window before stopping in the area of her apartment, where the witness exited the Challenger and contacted police. Another witness who was allegedly with Sharif Ahmed earlier that night told detectives that Sharif Ahmed had been acting strange and continually laughing like a child, prosecutors previously said. Previous reporting by the Stars Jenna Thompson contributed to this story. Herman Lindsey, a death row exoneree, speaks at the Kansas Coalition Against the Death Penalty meeting Nov. 16, 2024, at the University of Kansas. After Lindsey was exonerated in 2009, he has traveled the country as an advocate to end the death penalty. (Grace Hills/Kansas Reflector) LAWRENCE Herman Lindsey knows firsthand how bad actors can lead to wrongful convictions in capital murder cases. After two witnesses who were threatened and promised compensation if they lied testified against him, Lindsey was convicted and sentenced to death. Now exonerated, Lindsey spoke Saturday at the University of Kansas as part of the Kansas Coalition Against the Death Penaltys annual meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So, thanks to a lot of good folk like yourself getting involved in this issue, innocent people are actually starting to come out of that bondage, Lindsey said. Kansas has not executed a prisoner since 1965, but there are nine inmates currently on death row. The U.S. Supreme Court halted capital punishment in 1972, then cleared the way for new death penalty laws in 1976. Kansas reinstated the death penalty in 1994. Lindsey said one of the witnesses in his case was his ex-wife. Detectives threatened her with taking her children away and offered to compensate her with $10,000 if she testified as they directed. Mark Simms testified in exchange for a shorter sentence that Lindsey had confessed to the murder when they shared a holding cell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You got to do what you got to do to free yourself, Simms, a prisoner who was promised a shorter sentence if he lied, told Lindsey, according to court documents. Lindsey was sentenced to death in 2006 for the 1994 robbery and murder of a pawn shop owner. Lindsey had been to the pawn shop four months before the killing, and detectives interviewed him because they believed Lindseys godbrother was connected to the crime. After Lindsey left the interview, he heard nothing from the detectives for 12 years. In 2006, the told Lindsey he sounded suspicious in his initial interview. Lindsey laughed while being arrested, because he knew he was innocent. He was offered a plea deal of three years in prison, which he turned down. Lindseys pawn shop slip was presented as evidence that hed been planning the murder days before which Lindsey said he found funny, since the slip was from four months earlier. Lindsey blames an uninterested jury on ignoring this detail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lindsey was exonerated by an anonymous verdict from the Florida Supreme Court in 2009. The court found there was no evidence to prove him guilty of a crime. Lindsey is now the executive director of Witness to Innocence, a group of exonerated death row survivors who aim to end the death penalty. Lindsey travels the country to share his story, and he works closely with the American Civil Liberties Union. The ACLU wants Lindsey to be the face of its petition for President Joe Biden to commute all federal death sentences before President-elect Donald Trump takes office. The annual meeting of the Kansas Coalition Against the Death Penalty followed the ACLU asking a state court to abolish the death penalty in Kansas. Robert Sanders, a board member for the coalition, said there is potential the ACLUs challenge to the Kansas law eventually could be heard before the U.S Supreme Court. Sanders said he became less optimistic of the direction that it may go once it gets to that level after the election results. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has said he wants to restart federal executions and make more crimes eligible for capital punishment. Trumps first term oversaw the largest number of federal executions since the late 1800s. Sanders said Kansas has come close to ending the death penalty in the past. The coalitions membership is made up of both Republicans and Democrats, and Sanders said its a matter of timing. This year were talking about being all in, and thats what were asking people to be all in, Sanders said. The conference offered breakout sessions for members to talk about the legality of the death penalty and the new makeup of the Kansas Legislature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Gallup Crime Survey from 2023 revealed that for the first time, a majority of Americans believe the death penalty is applied unfairly. When I was sentenced to death, the only thing I remember about that time this is when it gets emotional for me, Lindsey said. When I heard, We the people of the state of Florida hereby sentence you to die by lethal injection that is a moment I will never forget. Because those particular words stick to me so much, I feel like its my job, my obligation, to educate the people. A 25-year-old Salina man killed by officers on July 24 did not have a gun on him, but did make gestures that would lead any reasonable person to believe he had a gun, Saline County Attorney Jeffery Ebel said in a news release this week. Jesse Dean Wray died at the scene after being shot by two officers. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation, in an initial statement the day after the shooting, said gunfire was exchanged between Wray and officers before Wray was fatally shot. But after reviewing evidence that included video and body cam footage, its not believed Wray had a gun on him at the time of the shooting, according to a KBI news release issued Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No charges will be filed against the Kansas Highway Patrol trooper or the Salina police officer who fatally shot Wray, Ebel said in the news release. Here is what the KBI says happened: Around 7:30 p.m., officers were called to 544 North 12th St. in Salina about arresting a wanted man, 44-year-old Larry Joseph Wray Jr. of Salina, who was in a detached garage east of the home. Court records show he had a warrant for violating the terms of his probation in an aggravated battery case after failing to appear in court. He was found in the garage and taken into custody. He is the father of the man killed by officers, the KBI said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jesse Wray was in the garage as well and, while his father was being arrested, pointed what appeared to be a gun at a Salina officer. A BB gun that had been made to look like a revolver was later found in the garage. KBI spokesperson Melissa Underwood said a witness and the officer both verified that Jesse Wray had pointed the gun at the officer. She did not immediately reply to a question about whether the BB gun is the gun referred to as having been pointed at an officer. Jesse Wray also had a warrant for his arrest for violating probation in a case involving battery on an officer, interference with police and drug charges, court records show. The officers retreated and called for backup. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jesse Wray did not comply with multiple commands to come out with your hands up and similar directives, the KBI said in the news release. Smoke and flames then came from the garage. The Office of the State Fire Marshal determined that the garage had been intentionally set ablaze. A woman came out of the garage with her hands up and Jesse Wray ran out behind her, the release stated. Wray ducked behind a parked truck in the driveway where he crouched in what appeared to be a shooting stance, extending his hands in front of him and toward officers, the release stated. Two officers from (the Salina Police Department) fired nine rounds, but no rounds struck Wray. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation says this photo shows Jesse Wray crouched and in a posture indicating he had a gun, even though he didnt, before being fatally killed by officers in Salina on July 24. The release included an image that shows a shirtless man in that position. There is no gun in his hands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jesse Wray then ran west of the garage and came face to face with KHP troopers and a Salina officer. One trooper and a Salina officer fired four shots, killing him. It was 6.35 seconds from the first to the final shots, the KBI said. Both officers stated they heard shots from a handgun and both attributed those shots to Wray, as they knew he had a gun and heard yelling, Ebel said. Under Kansas law, and the facts of the case, I conclude that the officers are immune from prosecution and no criminal charges can be filed against the officers because any reasonable officer would believe that the use of deadly force was justified. Kansas man barricaded in garage shot and killed by police; several others arrested Since 2020, ketamine therapy has been the only thing that effectively treats Marks complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD), a mental condition akin to PTSD that, in Mark's case, stems from childhood developmental trauma. When Mark, a 73-year-old who worked in finance before retiring, learned that his provider was under investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and would no longer be prescribing the anesthetic drug, he feared he wouldnt be able to get another prescription before his symptoms became debilitating. He was already out of the country in Mexico stretching his supply until he got back, and soon, his depression began to set in again. The only ketamine I could have gotten, had I pursued it at the time, would have been black market ketamine, Mark, who is using his first name only to protect his privacy, told Salon in a phone interview. I didnt have a backup antidepressant, and I was terrified. In Mexico, Mark could buy Prozac over-the-counter, and this antidepressant medication had helped him in the past to stabilize his depression. However, it could take a month or two to fully take effect, and ketamine plus intensive psychotherapy were really the only things that broke through to treating his CPTSD. Mark writes about his experience using ketamine online and is well-connected to existing resources, so he was able to rapidly find another provider. Within just a few weeks, he had another prescription of lozenges, or oral ketamine tablets, delivered to his home in Pennsylvania. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not like finding another primary care provider or orthopedic surgeon, and this is an exceedingly difficult task for someone who is mentally ill to accomplish, Mark said. I [was terrified] the DEA would suspend all other practitioners and maybe I wouldn't get my shipment. Ketamine, an anesthetic administered through infusions that can have psychedelic properties, has been hailed as a life-saving treatment for some patients. Although it has not been approved to treat mental health conditions, it is increasingly being used off-label to treat depression, suicidality and PTSD, said Dr. Brent Turnipseed, the medical director of a ketamine clinic Roots Behavioral Health in Austin, Texas. Ketamine treatment therapy clinic We have many success stories where people have their function restored and can go back to school or get back to their job or their relationship improves or they are not contemplating suicide anymore, Turnipseed told Salon in a phone interview. We have many, many good experiences from using ketamine. Like any drug, ketamine also carries risks, and some are concerned that the proliferation of clinics providing this treatment has outpaced what regulatory systems can support. Much of that concern stems from the relaxation of telehealth regulations that allowed doctors to prescribe oral ketamine tablets to patients at home, rather than having it be administered intravenously in a clinic. Want more health and science stories in your inbox? Subscribe to Salon's weekly newsletter Lab Notes. This summer, Martthew Perrys autopsy reported he died from the acute effects of ketamine, putting into question how the drug is regulated. Perry also had multiple drugs in his system, including buprenorphine, a drug that treats opioid use disorder. He had been diagnosed with coronary artery disease and was found to have drowned in a hot tub. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following the arrests made in connection to Perrys death, in an interview where CBS Face the Nation host Margaret Brennan likened ketamine abuse to the beginnings of the opioid epidemic, DEA administrator Anne Milgram said the agency would similarly target doctors and practitioners "who are violating this duty of trust to their patients by over-prescribing medicine, or prescribing medicine that isn't necessary." However, some experts caution that overregulating ketamine carries its own risks and could decrease access for patients who depend on it to maintain their mental health. With a few high-profile cases like Perrys death recently circulating in the news, others are questioning whether it is time to develop a stronger regulatory network for ketamine prescribing to prevent misuse and diversion. There are some very good, high quality practices out there, and I think it's important that we set some of these guidelines, said Dr. Sandhya Prashad, president of the Association of Ketamine Physicians, Psychotherapists and Practitioners (ASKP3), the largest organization of ketamine providers in the country. Ketamine is approved for anesthesia but the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved it for depression, except for a pricey version of the drug known as Spravato (esketamine.) Doctors can still prescribe ketamine for depression off-label, but insurance often won't cover drugs prescribed in ways the FDA hasn't approved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of this limits the data researchers have on how many people are prescribed the drug, in what doses, and the frequency of safety concerns, said Dr. Gerard Sanacora, a psychiatrist at Yale University who studies ketamine. The FDA has required Spravato be administered under a strict risk evaluation system to track this information. There is real concern that ketamine is a drug of potential abuse, and there is very little regulation about how it is being prescribed and used, Sanacora told Salon in a phone interview. I've heard a lot of people say, Well, it's not as bad as oxycodone or it's not as bad as opioids. Well, that's true, but it doesn't mean that we don't have to be concerned about it. There has been an increase in adverse events related to ketamine reported in national data systems. Still, those events remain relatively low, said Joseph Palamar, PhD, a drug use epidemiologist at NYU Langone. The DEA has also reported increased seizures of illicit ketamine in recent years at rates far lower than seizures of fentanyl or other far more deadly and prevalent illegal drugs. The DEA did not respond to Salon's request for comment. Reports to poison control, for example, have increased over the years, but its nothing compared to opioids or cocaine or anything like that, Palamar told Salon in a phone interview. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At this point, the scale of ketamine misuse hardly compares to the opioid overdose crisis, which kills tens of thousands of Americans every year. In a national survey of U.S. adults conducted between 2015 and 2019, 0.13% of the population reported using ketamine in the past year. Meanwhile, 3.1% of the population reported misusing prescription pain relievers like opioids or fentanyl in the past year in the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Since 2021, more than 100,000 people in the U.S. have died each year from the overdose crisis, whereas ketamine was detected in 0.5% of overdose deaths in 2023, which corresponds to 107 deaths. Moreover, 82% of those deaths in which ketamine was detected involved other substances like fentanyl or methamphetamine, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. People can develop a dependency for ketamine and have misused it with side effects to the bladder and other organs. Still, its potential for addiction is far lower than opioids, which can cause deadly physical withdrawals. From a toxicology perspective, [ketamine] is objectively safer than many other drugs, especially when compared to opioids, said Dr. Ryan Marino, the medical director of toxicology and addiction medicine at University Hospitals in Cleveland. Matthew Perrys tragic death by drowning while intoxicated illustrates that the greatest risks from ketamine are not direct effects of the drug but from using outside of medical settings or without proper monitoring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Recent media attention stemming from high-profile cases of ketamine use have shone a light on misuse. In addition to Perrys death, ketamine was also involved in Sean "Diddy" Combs high profile charges. In a different but also highly publicized case from 2019, first responders injected Elijah McClain, a 23-year-old Black man, with ketamine against his will. He later died after being restrained by police, the cause determined as ketamine overdose. The paramedics responsible were sentenced earlier this year with 14 months in jail. Providers told Salon they havent seen a widescale crackdown on ketamine clinics yet. In January, the DEA charged two doctors in St. Louis, Missouri for distributing ketamine without authorization, and the agency also charged two doctors in connection to Perrys death this summer. The DEA also suspended the controlled substances license of Dr. Scott William Smith, Marks doctor, who became licensed to prescribe ketamine in 48 states under the relaxation of the telehealth regulations during the pandemic. In a Reddit thread addressing the situation, Dr. Smith said he was put under scrutiny because he did not obtain state controlled substance certificates in Connecticut and Oklahoma and failed to sign up for state Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs in several states. He did not respond to a request to comment before this story was published. Ultimately it is my responsibility to meet these requirements. I failed due to my lack of fully understanding how the PDMP system does and does not function across all 50 states, Smith wrote. I would like to openly apologize to this entire community for failing you in this manner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dozens of patients on Smiths Reddit thread wrote to share their gratitude for how his services had changed their lives. Online services, including numerous telehealth companies, also send ketamine to patients' homes virtually. These companies have the potential to increase access to the medication and reduce cost, yet online and take-home services also increase the chances of misuse or diversion, Turnipseed said. Introducing new regulations for ketamine prescribing could help organize the $3 billion ketamine industry that has developed in recent years. The ASKP3 regulates some 600 clinics that administer in-office intravenous ketamine, but thousands of other providers are estimated to operate in other clinics and online. I'm sure there are many that are practicing at a very high level of integrity and medical sophistication, but I'm sure there are also some that are not, Sanacora said. Still, others are cautious of the harm that could be done with overregulating ketamine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One thing we actually know very well is that criminalization and prohibition of drugs drives people to use drugs in less safe ways and can actually increase risks of harms like overdose and death, Marino told Salon in an email. Indeed some critics have pointed to the DEA's crackdown on opioid "pill mills" with pushing more people to use street heroin and eventually fentanyl, which resulted in overdoses soaring as prescriptions fell. As with any health policy, its likely the most effective means of regulating the industry lies somewhere in the middle. It's that balance between having access to the people that really could benefit from this and making sure that we're not causing more harm overall than we're benefiting, Sanacora said. Unlike their French counterparts who regularly bring their cities and ports to a standstill in disputes with the state, British farmers tend to spurn militant action. But they have been driven to protest by the decision of Rachel Reeves in her first Budget to remove the agricultural land relief on inheritance tax (IHT) from assets worth more than 1 million. From next year they will be liable to 20 per cent IHT, putting many family farms at risk since they will have to sell up to pay the taxman. The complete failure of Labours largely urban-based ministerial team to understand the economics of farming has led to a stand-off. On Tuesday thousands of farmers will descend on central London to lobby MPs and impress upon the Government the need to think again. But the signs are ominous. At the weekend Sir Keir Starmer attending a conference in north Wales said he would defend the Budget all day long. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He repeated the assertion that it had demonstrated a willingness to take tough decisions when grabbing more tax is in reality an easy option for any government. Properly difficult choices on spending and welfare reform were ignored. Labour will now reap the whirlwind of the partys visceral hostility to wealth creation and the countryside. One former No 10 aide even suggested the country didnt really need small farmers. Ministers say that three quarters of farms will not be affected by the changes. But of those producing the countrys food a great majority are over the 1 million threshold which means an inevitable impact on security of supply and higher prices for consumers. There was evidently no conception in the Treasury of the consequences of this policy before it was announced. Even though the ramifications are now apparent, Ministers are stubbornly digging in and making increasingly implausible arguments to defend the indefensible. Rather than deal with excessive spending, Labour has decided to hit businesses, including farmers, while inflating the unproductive and so far unreformed public sector. Sir Keir said he would defend fiscal decisions that protect the payslips of working people which is an insult to some of the hardest working people in (and on) the land but indicative of the worldview of a north London lawyer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the Government is not to inflict irreparable damage on British farming the Chancellor needs to swallow her pride and think again. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) Paula Priours home once looked over a pitch black Texas Hill Country. Amid the tall grass, old trees and art displays built by her husband and son, the hills roll for miles and miles. When we first moved here, there were no lights on the horizon at all, said Priour while looking down at the dozen or so developments that have popped up in the last couple of decades. Paula Priours property looks out across the Texas Hill Country, where she can see developments for miles. (Credit: KXAN/Morganne Bailey ) There are six developments between here and (Highway) 12, and the Mirasol line will extend past that for another eight miles out, Priour said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mirasol Springs is a planned green development on the border of Travis and Hays counties. It is located in an environmentally sensitive area near the Pedernales River, Hamilton Pool and Reimers Ranch. In October, the West Travis County Public Utility Agency (WTCPUA) heard public comment on a proposed water line that would provide service to the development. To get approval, the developers would have to agree to certain restrictions. Ahead of a decision on the water service line, Priour and other landowners are concerned the utility agency wont uphold its promises and maintain those restrictions on the development. Water concerns at the green development The construction and line would be paid for by the developers. The line would be three inches in diameter. and be built along Hamilton Pool Rd. Plans for Mirasol Springs include around 40 homesites, cabins and a hotel. Much of the land will be placed in a conservation easement, preventing further development on the land. (Credit: Mirasol Capital) Travis County leaders have voiced support for the water line after they initially were concerned about the damage the development could have on the taxpayer land, including Hamilton Pool, near Mirasol Springs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: Mirasol Springs new water line decision delayed amid pushback Pushback from landowners, worried about increased development as a result of the line, led to a delay in a vote by the WTCPUA until November 18. While the WTCPUA has said the proposed line is only meant for Mirasol Springs, Paula said past extensions have led to the development she sees today. Development she worries isnt over. Bringing water to the hills In 2005, the Lower Colorado River Authority built a water line extension from Bee Cave to the area west of Highway 71 on Hamilton Pool Road. We fought it at the time, and we said, if you put a water line out here, then thatll open it up for development, Paula said. But of course, we obviously we lost. Landowners gather to protest Mirasol Springs, a development aiming to set the gold standard for conservation. (Credit: Eric Henrikson/KXAN) A short time later, the LCRA sold the pipes and retail water business to newly formed entity: the WTCPUA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ahead of the Mirasol vote in October, representatives with the WTCPUA told KXAN that the reason we are considering it is to relieve capacity from the Trinity Aquifer and the Pedernales River. Mirasol Springs has applied for permits for groundwater pumping in the area and surface water permits along the Pedernales River. As part of the proposed line, the developers will not be able to pump groundwater or use surface water. More development requires more water Paula said that ensuing development, including one just feet from her driveway, has led to expanded water lines. People along this road are having to lop off property. That is what is happening to Nell Penridge. It pisses me off in a huge way. Nell Penridge saw the construction of the original water line. Now an expansion of that line is resulting in her losing several feet of her own yard to eminent domain. (Credit: KXAN/Morganne Bailey ) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nell, who moved to her home in 1993, saw the 2005 line installed. The ground was dug just up the hill from her home, then crossed to the other side of the street. When the line was installed, many landowners were concerned about the increased development. If you build it, they will come. And they came. The developments came, the traffic came, the lack of water came. And we are now in the same predicament, if you will, going down west of 12, Nell said. Pushback against wastewater disposal near Texas best-kept secret In order to expand water access after one development, Belvedere, lost water multiple times over the summer, the WTCPUA will expand the line. To do that, they are turning to eminent domain and purchasing more than a dozen feet of Nells property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They will remove several heritage oaks along her property and remove the bushes that provide her privacy from the busy Hamilton Pool Road. That which provided me privacy and a quality of life is going to be gone, Nell said about the move. An additional water tank will also be installed near Paulas home to support this increased flow. Paula can see the current water tower from her bedroom balcony. Paula is actually optimistic about Mirasol Springs. She said that the development seems to be taking all the appropriate actions, but she worries about the agreement between Mirasol and the WTCPUA could change after it is approved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Travis County enters fray over conservation-scale development Mirasol Springs At the meeting the other day, Scott Roberts, the president of the PUA, says, and this is totally correct. He cannot bind a future board to what a future board decides to do, Paula said. Paula said that the developments and landowners west of 71 do not have representation of the board. Support for the water line On November 14, Travis County Judge Andy Brown signed a letter on behalf of Travis County Commissioners Court that supported the new line under several restrictions, which include: The size of the water main line extension shall not exceed 3 inches with a maximum flow of 108 gallons per minute. The drilling of any new water wells and upon service from the WTCPLA the non-exempt use of groundwater is prohibited. Rainwater harvesting and storage for outdoor irrigation is mandatory. The use of the Pedernales River as a potable water supply to the area served by WTCPUA is prohibited. Mirasol will sever its groundwater estate and grant Travis County a groundwater conservation easement. WTCPUA water is limited to indoor use. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Letter-to-WTCPUADownload Activists opposing the construction of the water line have cited a 2015 study by The Meadows Center, conducted by hydrologist Doug Wierman. That study was funded by the Save Our Springs Alliance, one of the groups opposing Mirasol Springs. That study found that the construction of a water service line, operated by the WTCPUA, led to an increase in development and depletion of groundwater along the 290 corridor and in Dripping Springs. Texas crown jewels threatened by new development; landowners and activists say However, at a recent meeting of the Southwestern Travis County Groundwater Conservation District, Wierman spoke about that study. He compared the situation with the 290 pipeline and Mirasol Springs to apples and oranges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement highway-290-pipeline-studyDownload The 290 pipeline was a production pipeline put in for that purpose, where this service line to Mirasol appears to be a single service or single entity type of use. I agree with everything everybody said about the devils in the details. It certainly is. But I think from a groundwater protection perspective, this could solve a lot of your problems, Wierman said. The WTCPUA board will meet at Bee Cave City Hall on Nov. 18 to decide the future of the line. The meeting will begin at 11 am. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden listens to Gov. Kristi Noem during her 2023 budget address on the House floor of the South Dakota Capitol on Dec. 5, 2023. (Makenzie Huber, South Dakota Searchlight) State lawmakers from across the political spectrum are expressing confidence in Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden while he prepares to potentially succeed Gov. Kristi Noem early next year. Theyre also wondering who Rhoden might choose as his own lieutenant governor. Meanwhile, Rhoden himself has said little publicly, except to provide a statement congratulating Noem on her recent nomination by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The nomination wont officially be sent to the U.S. Senate until Trump takes office in January, the same month South Dakotas Legislature will convene for its annual lawmaking session in Pierre. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Senator-elect Jamie Smith, D-Sioux Falls, served previously in the Legislature and ran against Noem for governor in 2018. Ive always had a good working relationship with the lieutenant governor, Smith said. I believe this change creates new opportunities to work together for the betterment of South Dakota. House Speaker Pro Tempore Karla Lems, R-Canton, believes legislative priorities will remain consistent regardless of who is governor. It will not change much in terms of bills proposed, she said. I believe the current legislators will strive to work with Lieutenant Governor Rhoden to accomplish legislation on behalf of the people of South Dakota. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Rhoden becomes governor, hell have to appoint a new lieutenant governor. And one of the lieutenant governors roles is serving as president of the state Senate. Sen. Randy Deibert, R-Spearfish, said it will be important to have a lieutenant governor with substantial legislative experience. If thats going to happen, we should get that appointment made as soon as possible, so we can hit the ground running, Deibert said. With a significant number of new senators and a fresh leadership team, strong guidance from an experienced Senate president will be crucial. Rhoden has not said whether he will run for governor in 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Casey Crabtree, R-Madison, was majority leader of the Senate for the last Legislature. He said Rhodens lieutenant governor will likely be someone familiar with the Senates workings, capable of aiding in governance, and strategic on the campaign trail for a potential 2026 gubernatorial run. Rhodens team would likely want someone strong along the I-29 corridor given he already has West River credentials, Crabtree said. Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden speaks during a rally featuring former President Donald Trump on Sept. 8, 2023, at The Monument in Rapid City. (Seth Tupper/South Dakota Searchlight) The transition may lead to a shift in style in the governors office. Noem is nationally known and has spent significant time outside the state campaigning for Trump and other Republican candidates. Crabtree highlighted Rhodens 16 years as a legislator and described him as a leader focused on the nuts and bolts of government. Rhoden is a lifelong rancher and a custom welder from rural Union Center in western South Dakota. He is married to Sandy Rhoden, and they have four sons and six grandchildren. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EDITORS NOTE: This story has been updated with a correction. The original story misstated Casey Crabtrees title during the last legislative session. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX MAURY COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) Maury County firefighters had to perform two vehicle extrications on Friday, one of which ended with two people being brought to the hospital. According to the Maury County Fire Department, the first incident happened on Theta Pike shortly before 8:45 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 15, but crews only needed to remove a windshield to free an occupant. (Courtesy: Maury County Fire Department) No additional details were released about that crash, including the condition of the motorist who was involved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement VIDEO: Drone helps find 4-year-old boy lost in Sumner County woods As for the second incident from Friday, fire officials said it occurred around 11:15 p.m. on Double Branch Road. When personnel arrived on scene, they found two occupants, one of whom was heavily entrapped, so they got to work freeing the passenger. (Courtesy: Maury County Fire Department) (Courtesy: Maury County Fire Department) (Courtesy: Maury County Fire Department) (Courtesy: Maury County Fire Department) A member of the Franklin Fire Department reportedly heard the wreck from his home and provided assistance at the scene. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com According to the Maury County Fire Department, Maury Regional Emergency Medical Services transported both occupants to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. There is no word on the nature of their injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said Tennessee Highway Patrol is investigating the crash. No additional information has been released about it. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Kailash Gahlot, a senior leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and minister in the Delhi Government, has resigned, citing deep concerns over the party's direction and internal challenges, saying that the political ambitions within the party have overshadowed its core commitment to serving the people. Gahlot criticized the shift in the party's focus from advocating for the rights of the people to advancing its own political agenda, a shift he said has hindered AAP's ability to provide basic services to the residents of Delhi. He highlighted the unfulfilled promise of cleaning the Yamuna River, which remains more polluted than ever and expressed concern over controversies like the 'Sheeshmahal' issue, which, he said, have led people to question whether AAP still upholds its commitment to being a party of the "Aam Aadmi." Kailash Gahlot resigned from AAP, citing internal challenges and unfulfilled promises, including the failure to clean the Yamuna River. He criticized the party's shift from serving the people to prioritizing political ambitions, which he said has hindered basic service delivery in Delhi. In a letter to AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday, Kailash Gahlot said, "Let me start with sincerely thanking you for having given me the honour of serving and representing the people of Delhi as an MLA and a Minister. However, at the same time, I also want to share with you that today the Aam Aadmi Party faces grave challenges. Challenges from within, to the very values that brought us together to AAP." "Political ambitions have overtaken our commitment towards people, leaving many promises unfulfilled. Take for example the YAMUNA, which we had promised to transform into a clean river, but never got around to doing it. Now the Yamuna River is perhaps even more polluted than ever before. Apart from this, now there are many embarrassing and awkward controversies like the 'SHEESHMAHAL', which are now making everyone doubt whether we still believe in being the AAM AADMI." "Another painful point has been the fact that instead of fighting for people's rights we have increasingly only been fighting for our own political agenda. This has severely crippled our ability to even deliver basic services to the people of Delhi. It is now obvious that real progress for Delhi cannot happen if the Delhi Government spends the majority of its time fighting with the Centre," read the letter. Kailash Gahlot further announced his resignation from AAP, stating that his political journey began with a commitment to serve the people of Delhi, and he intends to continue that mission. Gahlot also extended his best wishes to AAP leadership for their health and future, while thanking his party colleagues and well-wishers for their support during his tenure. "I had started my political journey with the commitment to serve the people of Delhi and I want to continue doing that. This is why, I find myself left with no option but to step away from AAP and hence I resign from primary membership of Aam Aadmi Party. I wish you the best for your health and future. I also thank all my party colleagues and well-wishers for their wishes and kindness throughout this journey," said Gahlot. (ANI) LEEDS, Ala. (WIAT) Leeds residents will get a chance Tuesday to explore downtown with a national real estate development consultant and share their ideas for revitalizing the area. By walking together, attendees can talk about the potential for Leeds future growth and vibrancy. Kristy Biddle is the executive director of Leeds Main Street and joined CBS 42 Morning News on Sunday to talk about the event. She said the nonprofit is offering the opportunity to bring in experts after the city received a grant for it to happen. Joe Borgstrom is a national real estate development consultant from Place + Main in Michigan and will be in the area Tuesday and Wednesday to help lead the process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hell be looking at vacant buildings and talking to the city a little bit about what we have going on downtown, Biddle said. Ultimately, the most exciting part is the Walking Visioning Tour. Biddle said the Walking Visioning Tour is community led because the citizens understand the heart of downtown the best. I think that sometimes the citizens arent sure how to voice or how to see what they want to happen downtown, how to help facilitate that, Biddle said. This is an opportunity for all of those groups to come together with the citizens. Really, the people who live in Leeds are the ones. We want foot traffic downtown. We love local businesses. NASCAR legend Bobby Allison laid to rest Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biddle said it is a low-key event where they will talk about vacant properties. If you participate, youll be given a pack of sticky notes to write down ideas that you will stick on storefront windows as you walk by. In my perfect world, we would have someone who has an idea of maybe opening a bakery or something like that to be part of this tour and to hear all of their friends and neighbors say, Oh, this is what I would like to see here,' Biddle said. And hopefully, it would give them the momentum and that bravery to take that step and open up a business downtown. As they walk, and as we pass by each building, each property thats available, theyll be able to put on the windows what they would like to see there, Biddle continued. Then, Main Street Alabama will also have a team there collecting those to create a community report of what the community would really like to see. The event is at 6 p.m. Tuesday. You can meet at the parking lot next to the Leeds Jane Culbreth Library. You can visit Leeds Main Streets website, call 205-937-3203 and email director@leedsmainstreet.com or info@leedsmainstreet.com for more information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. To the editor: As a longtime member of the Pacific Community Police Advisory Board, I listen to crime statistics at monthly meetings. I have commented that reported stats are significantly understated because lots of crimes are not reported. ("New LAPD chief says people aren't calling the police enough and that needs to change," Nov. 14) Whenever a neighbor complains about a recent crime incident, I ask if they reported it. More often than not, they say, "No, because it takes so long." As such, reported crime might be a fraction of actual crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Steve Freedman, Venice .. To the editor: How can Jim McDonnell, the new chief of the Los Angeles Police Department, focus on reporting of crimes without a single mention of what really plagues the department? To wit a culture so far removed from public service, so riddled with cliques and so failed that after 20 years of trying to implement an effective disciplinary process, we are no closer to public accountability. Larry Lang, Fullerton This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. To the editor: Yes, California takes longer than other states to count ballots, as a letter writer points out. There are three reasons for this. First, mail-in ballots are accepted up to seven days after the election as long as they are postmarked by election day. In Texas, mail-in ballots must be received by Election Day or, if postmarked on election day, the following day. In Florida, mail-in ballots must be received by election day. Second, California's population is larger than Florida by 17 million, and larger than Texas by about 9 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Third, California encourages voting. Florida and Texas work to limit voting, thereby discouraging turnout. Increased voter participation is worth a delay in receiving results. Moira Waddell, Los Angeles This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. In October 2016, weeks before the country rendered its verdict on Donald Trumps first major-party run for the presidency, a Special Forces dive team crept along the bottom of a lake outside Fort Bragg in a nighttime training exercise. Visibility-wise, no one could see shit, and not just because the sun was down. Hurricane Matthew had just ripped up the Atlantic coast and left the water looking like a muddy snow globe. To communicate, the divers walked in buddy pairs and held a PVC pipe between them. Five shakes meant go; two meant stop. Everything was going fine until Major Taylor Murphy, the dive team leader, crashed into the guy in front of him. He was likewise rammed from behind. Murphy felt five shakes, but it was too late. Theyd run into a tree stumpor something stumplikeand now their buddy lines were all tangled up in it. The real problem, though? They suddenly couldnt breathe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A normal person would have just panicked, but that would have been really dangerous. It was a chaotic situation, Murphy tells me, years later. Someone could have easily died. According to Murphy, its not uncommon for divers to find themselves fouled up on something, or for it to take a while to get unfouled. As it happened, his dive detachment had encountered similar obstacles earlier that week. But wed never experienced buddy lines pinching off air sources before, he says. That was a frightening new wrinkle. Still, nobody panicked. For the next 10 or so minutes, in total blackout conditions, Murphy worked slowly through the chaos of his tangled buddy line, while taking frequent breaks to reopen his air hoseto, you know, breathe. In this way, he fell into a rhythm: Work on the entanglement; open the hose; breathe. Work on the entanglement; open the hose; breathe. It felt like it took an eternity, he says. But we were able to eventually work through it. To keep their lizard brains at bay. To breatheat least every now and again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For many Americans who did not vote for Donald Trump, it may well feel as if were caught underwater without our air hoses. The stakes of this election have been frequently described in near-existential termsfrom the future of womens health, to the future of our most vulnerable citizens, to the future of democracy itself. Even before the final votes have been tabulated, much has already been made of what the so-called resistance to Trump and his norm-busting ways may look like during a second term, especially now that he and his allies are so keen to empty the governments cupboards of civil servants who might stand in his way. These concerns are valid. The threats are real. But that doesnt mean we have to feel threatened. As humans, when we experience stress, our brains do a kind of instant assessment; they take an inventory of our resourcesour abilitiesand weigh those against the demands of the situation. Our brains want to know: Do we have what it takes to succeed? Based on that assessment, we enter either whats known in performance psychology as a challenge state, if we believe we have the resources to meet those demands, or a threat state, if we dont. In a challenge state, our bodies have a physiological response thats optimized for taking action. But in a threat state, we essentially enter fight, flight, or freeze. We react impulsively, unthinkingly. We panic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres a reason Murphy and his fellow divers didnt panic when they found themselves pulling at their air hoses and getting nothing in return: Theyd been trained to survive similarly stressful situations before, and they felt confident in their ability to do so again. To stay calm and problem-solve. As we grapple with the specter of a second Trump term, its tempting to romanticize the full-throated convulsions of disgust and protest that erupted during the early days of 2017the pink-hatted Womens March, for exampleas proof of our unwillingness to bend to Trumps will, and fret if things dont look similar this time around. But even more than outward displays of resistance, we should prioritize the lessons of resilience. Just like those military divers, we ought to recognize that weve faced these kinds of threats beforeeven if there are surely a few frightening new wrinkles in storeand feel some level of confidence that we have what it takes to survive yet again. Resilience is a mindset as much as anything, and the stories we tell ourselves matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Brian Decker, a former Green Beret who now does player development in the NFL, the mentally toughest and most successful people hes ever seen all have one thing in common: a tipping-point moment when they make a commitment to press on in the face of adversity. In the coming months and years, many of us will have to make just that kind of commitment. Folks at every level of government, consequences be damned, will have to stand up against Trumps worst instincts and initiatives: those that violate peoples rights or tear at the fabric of our democracy. Lawyers will have to fill the dockets with legal challenges. Journalists will have to report on what promise to be eye-popping levels of corruption. And for fucks sake, Democrats will have to earnestly look themselves in the mirror and question why their establishment candidates havent won a presidential election in more than a decade when lacking the step stool of a global pandemic. As for the rest of us, we need to stay engaged, not freeze up. We need to dig in, not flee to foreign shores. And we need to fight not just with passion, but also with defined purpose. Almost assuredly, there will be no Womens March in January, or at least not one as big and meaningful as the one in 2017, and maybe thats a good thing. Sure, on some level, that likely means weve become numb to Trumps behavior and policy promises, but it also means weve been inoculated against the high levels of stress he presents. It means, whether we realize it or not, that we know how to operate in these uncertain and murky waters without panickingand its that comfort with a discomforting environment that will, in turn, allow us the clear-sighted chance to respond in ever more calculated ways. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the military, theres an acronym they teach soldiers to help train their attention for when they find themselves in highly stressful situations: WIN. Whats important now? For those Special Forces divers stuck without air at the bottom of the lake, it wouldnt have been useful to worry about how much time they were losing on their mission or how things might have gone differently. They needed to focus exclusively on the problem at hand. Of course, someone has to do the work of strategizing against Trump politically, and others have to dissect exactly why Democrats are so incapable of reaching voters in meaningful ways. But on an individual level, when things start to feel really overwhelming, we dont all need to think 10 steps ahead. We need to focus just on whats important now. Work on the entanglement; open the hose; breathe. Then do it again. Many of the coming wars may well be won on the battlefields of attrition and indifference. And for most of us, that will be the challenge of the next four years: staying engaged, staying in the fight. Not because things arent grim, but because we have what it takes to survive. And we can do just thatone breath at a time. WASHINGTON (AP) The Library of Congress has notified lawmakers of a cyber breach of its IT system by an adversary, a hack of emails between some congressional offices and library staff, according to an email obtained by The Associated Press. The library said that an adversary accessed email communications during the period from January to September. The matter has been referred to law enforcement, the library said. Authorities gave no immediate information on the attacker, including whether their identity was known. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Library has mitigated the vulnerability that the adversary used to access the environment and has taken measures to prevent such incidents in the future, the library said in the notification. NBC News first reported the breach. The Library of Congress operates across from the U.S. Capitol within the complex grounds. It is the largest library in the world, according to its website, and it holds millions of books, films and video, audio recordings, photographs, newspapers, maps and manuscripts in its collections. The Library is also the main research arm of Congress, and the home of the U.S. Copyright Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the notification about the breach, the library noted that the House and Senate's information technology networks, including individual House and Senate email accounts, were not compromised in any way." It said an adversary accessed email communications between congressional offices and some Library staff, including the Congressional Research Service, compromising the information obtained in those emails. The notifications said the U.S. Copyright Office systems were not impacted by the breach. The library said it is in the process of analyzing which email communications were accessed and would contact specific congressional offices and staff members with more information. ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) Sandia National Labs held its annual electric car challenge, bringing together middle school students from across the state to showcase their STEM skills. The competition asks kids to build an electric car capable of delivering a payload weighing about as much as a salt shaker and complete a design challenge. There was also an optional research challenge defending their findings. Judges said they were impressed with what they saw. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was just such a great day. They were so excited. Their builds were beautiful. They just blow me away. Theyre our future engineers, said Sandia Lab STEM Education Outreach Coordinator Debra Menke. Dozens of awards were also given away at the end of the competition, celebrating the teachers and students who dedicated months to preparing for the event. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. A lot of cruise ships make stops in the Bahamas with Nassau and Freeport being two of the most popular stops. Some passengers opt to take excursions in those ports, and while that's not a guarantee of safety, it's certainly safer than going off on your own. In both cases, many passengers opt to either stay on the ship or simply walk around the enclosed port areas where the only locals you will encounter are vendors, security staff, and customs officers. If you never actually enter the city, then you don't really have to worry about more than whether that cigar you're buying is actually Cuban or whether the handmade crafts were really mass-produced in China. Related: US issues travel warnings for surprising Caribbean cruise ports In both Nassau and Freeport, which is also sometimes referred to as "Grand Bahama," there are areas to explore beyond the cruise ports. Those include markets, restaurants, shops, and beaches, which can be very enticing for passengers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Nassau, for example, you can get off the ship and be at Junkanoo Beach in about a mile. It's an easy walk where you will pass many shops and places to eat along with pretty aggressive vendors. Freeport has similar areas, although you will need to take a cab or some other form of transportation to get there. Both Nassau and Freeport are popular cruise destinations that are both under a travel advisory from the US Department of State. That has been the case since Jan. 26, 2024, but anyone visiting needs to be aware of exactly what the warning says in order to be safe if they decide to get off the ship in either destination. Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter to save money on your next (or your first) cruise. The Bahamas is under a Level 2 safety warning The US State Dept. has four levels of travel warning: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Level 1: Exercise normal precautions Level 2: Exercise increased caution Level 3: Reconsider travel Level 4: Do not travel Many places you would not think of as dangerous are under Level 1 warnings. That warning basically means, "Don't be stupid, and remember that you're not in Kansas." A Level 2 warning is a little more serious and should be paid attention to, but it's not the US government telling you not to travel. In the case of The Bahamas, which is under a Level 2 travel advisory, you really have to read the warning. "Exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due tocrime," serves as essentially the headline for the Level 2 travel advisory which then gets much more specific. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands. In Nassau, practice increased vigilance in the 'Over the Hill' area (south of Shirley Street) where gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population. Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas. Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence," the State Department shared. What's not said is that if you stay downtown near the port, where there is a very visible police presence, and you make smart decisions, you will likely not be in any danger. Be the first to see the best deals on cruises, special sailings, and more. Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter. US State Dept. shares added Bahamas warning When the State Dept. last modified its warning for The Bahamas, it added a section on watercraft and other water-related activities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated. Watercraft may be poorly maintained, and some operators may not have safety certifications. Always review and heed local weather and marine alerts before engaging in water-based activities. Commercial watercraft operators have discretion to operate their vessels regardless of weather forecasts; injuries and fatalities have occurred," the State Dept. shared. ALSO READ: Top travel agents share how to get the best price on your cruise The Level 2 travel advisory also shared some fairly basic information about general water safety. "Never swim alone, regardless of your age or level of swimming skills. Keep within your fitness and swimming capabilities. Be mindful of sharks when swimming and engaging in water activities, as there have been recent fatal and non-fatal incidents involving sharks. Be aware of weather and water conditions and heed local warnings," it added. Are you taking a cruise or thinking about taking one? Visit our Come Cruise With Me website to have all your questions answered. MARINETTE, Wis. (WFRV) A local boy was welcomed home with his hard-earned Victory Bell, accompanied by the Peshtigo Police Department and Marinette County Sheriffs Office after a year-long battle with cancer. According to a Facebook post from the City of Marinette Police Department, Jameo demonstrated remarkable courage, strength, and determination, ultimately triumphing over the illness. The community came together to celebrate his victory, honoring his incredible journey and resilience. Shelling out help: Exotic pet surrender event in Suamico gives creatures a second chance Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of the celebration, Jameo had the opportunity to check out our tactical rescue vehicle, meet Marinette PDs K-9 named Vinny, and meet some of the local heroes who supported him along the way, according to the Marinette PD post. The Facebook post says Jameo had a chance to interact with Sergeant Greg Haemker, Officer Brad Bayerl, Officer Jim Harper, Officer Alex Wojcik, and Deputy Chad Haws, who were all thrilled to be part of his special day. Running the show: Girls on the Run celebrates confidence and community at fall 5K Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. A somber crowd amassed on the sandy beaches of South Pointe in Miami Beach Saturday afternoon, carrying flowers and holding back tears as they mourned the loss of 19-year-old Victor Enrique Castaneda Jr. Wearing shirts with his face adorned on them, Forever 19 written in cursive above it, they held up a portrait and lowered their heads near a purple lifeguard tower flying two warning flags: dangerous marine life and medium surf. Photos of Castaneda were passed around before the ceremony began. Just off shore, two Miami-Dade Fire Rescue boats played their sirens and fired water cannons into the air in an honorary show. Two Miami-Dade Fire Rescue boats fired water cannons into the air on Saturday, Nov. 16 in an honorary show at a memorial service for 19-year-old Victor Castaneda, who lost his life while swimming in Miami Beach. Castaneda disappeared into the ocean after swimming with his younger sister, Hailey Clements, off South Pointe Beach on Nov. 9. His family now remembers him as the hero who gave his life to save his sister. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pastor Tucker Stipe, of Christ Fellowship, started the ceremony asking the dozens of family and friends that came to mourn to bow their heads in prayer. He was a man full of life, Stipe said. Ive been told in the last week how he was a great guya funny guy. Anytime he was around no one was frowning. His family told heartwarming stories of how they remembered his caring demeanor. Hailey, 17, took the mic, and fighting through tears, spoke on the protector her brother was. Victor was a loving guy, a sweet guy, she said. Ever since I was little, Victor always told me he would protect me and he died protecting me. Hes my everything, hes my other half. Ill never stop missing you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Choking back tears, his older sister Chloe Castaneda shared similar stories of his kindness. He was an amazing soul, the kindest boy youll ever meet. We are all going to miss him truly, she said. A picture of Victor Castaneda stands among family and friends who gathered in South Pointe Beach on Saturday, Nov. 16 for a memorial service for 19 -year-old Victor Castaneda who perished while swimming nearby. His family released three white doves that soared into the air and hovered around the crowd. Chloe assured the crowd her brother would want them happy and celebrating on the sands. And so they did, singing, hugging and slowly rocking to his favorite songs. As night fell, a stream of fireworks were set-off as a final goodbye. People gathered in South Pointe Beach on Saturday, Nov. 16 for a memorial service for 19-year-old Victor Castaneda who went missing from South Pointe Beach and has been confirmed dead by police. A night swim gone wrong On the day of his disappearance, Castaneda and his sister struggled in the water. He called for help, and bystanders managed to rescue his sister. However, they could not reach Victor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My brother was an amazing person. To know him was to love him, said Jessica Castaneda, his older sister. He was always helping people. He was the friend people would go to to help them. Investigators continue to work on piecing together what happened to Victor, hoping to bring answers and closure to his family, Officer Christopher Bess, a Miami Beach Police Department spokesman told the Herald on Saturday. Elaine Lugos son, Christian, was Victors best friend and was there that night with a group of other friends. Lugo said her son was devastated by the loss and recalled fond memories of Victor at her home. He called me Mama Lugo, she said. I broke down [hearing the news]. My family broke down. Were still sick to our stomach. He was a special kid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What is known at this point in the investigation is that no foul play is suspected, said Bess. Victor graduated from Somerset Academy Charter High School in Princeton, located in south Miami-Dade. In a separate Instagram tribute, his other older sister, Chloe, described him as the best part of this family. She wrote, A hero life has a way of taking the best people. There was a time when he was all that kept this family going. Pure, genuine, so full of life. On Friday, Miami Beach and Miami-Dade County police confirmed that remains found washed ashore on a Key Biscayne beach were of Victor. The Miami Beach Police Department extends prayers and condolences to the family, said Cmdr. Shantell Mitchell, a Miami Beach Police Department spokeswoman. Our victim advocates will continue to provide support to the family during this time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The remains was discovered on Tuesday by a beach employee near the Oceansound Key Colony II condominium at 251 Crandon Blvd. A GoFundMe page has been started to help the family and describes how Victors calling was to always serve others. He would have loved to see how many people have come and really gotten together to love him wholeheartedly., Chloe said. He was a hero. The delegation of Members of Parliament (MPs) was led by MP Shri Radha Mohan Singh, who chaired the meeting. Senior officials from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and ICG also attended the meeting. The ICG was represented by Director General S Paramesh, PTM, TM, Director General Indian Coast Guard, who provided a comprehensive overview of the ICG's operational capabilities, strategic initiatives, and preparedness to address the nation's coastal security challenges. According to the release, the discussion focused on ICG's ongoing efforts to safeguard India's maritime interests, improve coordination with various stakeholders, and enhance response mechanisms for ensuring maritime safety and security. During the review, DG S Paramesh briefed the Committee on the various facets of ICG operations, including its extensive surveillance systems, advanced vessel fleet, and specialized response units. The ICG's role in preventing maritime security threats, such as illegal fishing, smuggling, and human trafficking, was also highlighted. The Committee members expressed their satisfaction with the Indian Coast Guard's recent achievements, acknowledging the force's significant progress in strengthening coastal security infrastructure, enhancing inter-agency coordination, and implementing cutting-edge technologies. They commended the ICG's proactive role in safeguarding India's 11,098 km coastline and ensuring the security of vital maritime trade routes. A meeting of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence was held in Chennai yesterday to review the working of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) in ensuring coastal security along India's vast maritime boundaries. The delegation of Members of Parliament (MPs) was led by MP Radha Mohan Singh, who chaired the meeting. Senior officials from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and ICG also attended the meeting, the release said. (ANI) PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) A local contractor took a small step to help a local business owner get to his car. George Manias, 93, is the owner of Peorias Georges Shoeshine & Hatters and in a Facebook post described what Otto Baum Contractors did to help him out. Outside of Manias shop, he has to step down off a curb in-order to get to his car and the curb is quite a drop for the 93-year-old, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local business celebrates 77 years in service Otto Baum however had noticed him using a sandbag to help make the drop from the curb a little more bearable and went and put a little slab of bricks as a step to help Manias get off the sidewalk. Manias also says how helpful the company has been keeping him and his brother updated on the process of construction. Their foreman, Scott, and his boss John have been really good about keeping both me and my brother updated about whats going on in front of my store. Thank you. Manias said Manias migrated from Greece to America in 1946, where he started shoe shining in a barbershop with one shoe stand. Today, he has nine seats in the shoe stand and a rich history. Every Illinois governor has paid him a visit since he opened his store, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Georges Shoeshine & Hatters has been around for over 77 years, and he started the business when he was only 15 years old. His shop is located downtown at 101 SW Adams St near the intersection of Main Street. He is hoping he will finally be able to use the front door to his shop on Monday. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. BAY COUNTY, Fla (WMBB) A local church made Thanksgiving dinner possible for hundreds of Bay County residents on Saturday. Calvary Panama City gave away 500 free turkeys at their Turkey Giveaway. Recipients started lining up at the churchs new Lynn Haven location at 9 a.m. Local woman organizes Thanksgiving dinner for those in need Volunteers brought the birds to peoples cars and prayed over them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It didnt take long for all of the turkeys to go. Four refrigerated trucks that stored the Thanksgiving dinner staple were emptied in less than an hour. Calvary Panama City officials say their mission is to show people love and help fill the gap where they can. We have a lot to be thankful for as Americans and as believers. We have a lot to be thankful for. We have the ultimate hope. Were hoping some families get around the Thanksgiving table and say Hey man, somebody loves me, theres hope for my future. Hopefully, theres some financial relief at Thanksgiving time so families can be together and just enjoy each others company, Cavary Panama City Pastor Kyle Shoots said. Theres people here that love them, people here that can help them, and give hope where needed, Calvary Panama City Outreach Director Jeremy Gibbens said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Calvary Panama City will be hosting another food drive on December 7th. Theyre planning on giving away 12,000 pounds of food. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. Editors Note: The video above first aired in July 2024. ECTOR COUNTY, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) The West Odessa Water Warriors, a local non-profit, announced they have a solution for West Odessa residents who remain without access to clean water. During the organizations first meeting in May, the residents of West Odessa suggested the group bring a water truck for home deliveries of water. On Thursday, the West Odessa Water Warriors announced that resources have been found to make this possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: Local group looks to bring clean water to West Odessa amid economic growth concerns For more information, you can contact the group or text 432-530-5214 with the following information: Your name Address Preferred language Preferred contact information While the water is not potable, or suitable for human consumption, the group said its perfect for showering, laundry, and other household needs. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin. BOARDMAN, Ohio (WKBN) Police are investigating reports of a shooting on the Boardman-Youngstown border. Read next: Man pleads guilty, is sentenced in Boardman rape case The incident happened shortly after noon Sunday near Southern Boulevard and Maple Drive, according to Boardman police. Boardman Police Chief Todd Werth said one male victim was shot and is receiving treatment at a local hospital. His condition is currently unknown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An investigation is open to identify possible suspects. First News will provide more information as it becomes available. Shianna Gibbons contributed to this report. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. Images in this story and above video may be considered disturbing Rumors are aplenty, and nobody knows the real reason why, but Los Angeles and its surrounding areas have been fortunate to be populated with beautiful, model citizen parrots for decades. But as of late, in a disturbing trend, many of these birds in the San Gabriel Valley are being found by residents with severe wounds, or even dead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cleo Watts, founder of non profit animal rehabilitation center Cleos Critter Care in Pasadena, says shes received several calls reporting severe injuries or deaths to the friendly creatures in the area. Ive been getting a lot of phone calls for birds being shot down, Watts told KTLAs Jennifer McGraw. Its very upsetting to know that somebody would do this to these animals. Parrots in and around the Pasadena area are being injured and even killed by unknown suspects. (Cleos Critter Care) Watts admits that the colorful birds are a controversial topic in Pasadena, Altadena and the rest of the San Gabriel Valley. They can be loud and somewhat obnoxious, she said, leading to some wishing the birds werent populating the area. We have leaf blowers, we have people with loud [car] exhausts, crying babies, barking dogs, she said. We dont go shooting them. So why these guys? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspected targeting of these birds isnt the first time its happened in the L.A. area it happened just last year in Temple City, when someone placed nets into trees, resulting in the death of some birds. This time around, Watts said it appears that someone is shooting the birds with some kind of weapon. As many as 11 parrots have been killed or severely injured in recent weeks. Parrots in and around the Pasadena area are being injured and even killed by unknown suspects. (Cleos Critter Care) The surviving, injured birds have been placed into Watts care. Shes taken some to specialists, where they can receive intensive care as needed. One parrot brought into her care was missing half of a wing, according to Watts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information as to a suspect in these crimes are encouraged to call police. Anyone that finds an injured bird is encouraged to reach out to Watts at cleoscrittercareca@gmail.com. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. NEW LONDON, Conn. (WTNH) An officer with the New London Police Department has been placed on paid administrative leave after he was arrested for domestic violence. New London Police say that on Thursday at 5:00 p.m., a victim arrived at the Waterford Police Department to report a domestic violence incident that originally occurred in New London. On the same day, Julio Gil-Martinez, 29, of New London, arrived at the New London Police Department to also report a domestic violence incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gil-Martinez, who became an officer in New London in 2023, was charged with threatening in the second degree, assault in the third degree, strangulation in the second degree, unlawful restraint in the first degree, and interfering with an emergency call. We want to assure the public that this matter is being investigated thoroughly and impartially, says New London Chief of Police Brian Wright. Our department is deeply committed to supporting victims of domestic violence. We want to emphasize that we are here to provide assistance and resources to anyone affected by such incidents. We encourage victims to come forward and seek help, knowing that their safety and well-being are our top priorities. The Office of the States Attorney New London Judicial District and the New London Police Department are investigating this incident. Gil-Martinezs bond is set at $75,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. Rain is moving into New Mexico tonight and will be lasting through Monday. Snow is expected in higher elevations. A low pressure system moved into the Great Basin on Friday. Through the day today this low pressure system has tracked south and settled over the Baja. Over tonight and tomorrow the low will begin to move into New Mexico. Ahead of this next movement, the low is drawing up moisture into New Mexico. This moisture will bring rain back to the state as soon as tonight. The rain late tonight could reach as far north as the Albuquerque Metro. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The heaviest rainfall will come on Sunday. The rain will be constant all today tomorrow. The heaviest rainfall will be in the southeast and eastern New Mexico. The heavy rainfall will begin in the afternoon and last through the night. On Monday, the low pressure system will be directly over southeast New Mexico. The low will lift out of New Mexico and towards the Midwest by Monday evening. The rain following the low will stick around eastern New Mexico through Monday evening. Along with nearly statewide rain, this low pressure system will also be bringing snow to higher elevation. 6 of snow is expected for elevations above 7500 and 8 is possible above 9000. A winter weather advisory is in place for portions of the Sacramento Mountains and Gila Wilderness through 8 a.m. Monday. Our next storm system will be clipping New Mexico Tuesday afternoon. This storm will not be bringing very much precipitation. A few spotty showers and flurries in the north are expected. The low pressure will be bringing windy conditions to eastern New Mexico. It will also be bringing cooler temperatures in the middle of the week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cooler temperatures will not be lasting very long. A high pressure system will build over the Baja next Thursday. This high pressure system will warm up temperatures across New Mexico through the end of next week. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. Nov. 16As he drove back home to Artesia from a homeland security briefing Tuesday in Las Cruces, state Rep. Jim Townsend noticed a marked difference among the agents who work at a Border Patrol checkpoint along U.S. 70 in Alamogordo. "We don't know each other, but we recognize each other," said Townsend, who served as minority leader of the state House of Representatives from late 2018 through 2022. Although they were always "very nice" in the past, the agents looked disgruntled and were browbeaten, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Tuesday a week after former-and-future President Donald Trump won another term in the White House the looks on their faces told a different story. "I said, 'You guys look like a couple of Cheshire Cats. You're smiling from ear to ear,' " Townsend recalled. "They said, 'Representative, better days are ahead of us.' " While border agents Townsend encountered in Alamogordo may be enthusiastic about a president-elect who promised to crack down on border security and illegal immigration, not everyone in New Mexico shares in the excitement, particularly when an unprecedented mass deportation of undocumented immigrants is part of his plan. "People are scared," said Allen Sanchez, executive director of the New Mexico Conference of Catholic Bishops, which plans to be a "voice for those who are here now." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There's people scared that they or a loved one or their family member, that someone is going to be yanked out of their family and torn apart because they saw that happen" during Trump's first presidency, he said. "How can you not be afraid if the same people that put children in cages are going to be in charge of this process again?" he asked, referring to the detention of unaccompanied child immigrants and those who had been separated from their families at the border. Amid the fear is also uncertainty over what it will look like in a blue border state like New Mexico if Trump carries out his promises to secure the southern border and deport millions of undocumented immigrants. 'We're going to resist' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interview Friday with The New Mexican, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said her administration will not stand idly by if Trump makes good on his promise of mass deportations. She said such an action is contrary to the values of "most Americans and certainly to those in New Mexico" and would cause significant economic and family disruptions. "A little bit like the border wall, I'm skeptical that they can actually execute that, but I take this administration at its word that their intentions are to create these sort of harsh, divisive efforts, that they will try," she said. "We're going to resist like all of the Democratic states, and I think some Republican states might," Lujan Grisham said. "Their [National] Guards will not be deployed to do that. Police cannot be deployed to do that ... because this is a federal issue, requires federal resources, so we're not allowed to do that, and we're not going to start now." Lujan Grisham said New Mexico is already cooperating with efforts to hold people accountable if they are here illegally and committing crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm going to continue to do that," she said. "If they want the Guard to plus up and to continue doing drug interdiction, I'm working on that. I would share that work with Texas or Oklahoma or Arizona or Colorado. I think that's really important work." If Trump wants to address the border, the governor advised passing the bipartisan border security bill Trump pressured Republican lawmakers to kill earlier this year. "Frankly, they could manage the border," she said. After a number of Democratic governors voiced resistance to Trump's mass deportation plans, Tom Homan, his new "border czar," indicated the new administration would beef up efforts in those states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If you don't want to work with us, then get the hell out all the way, we're going to do it," he said in an interview with Fox News Digital before Trump tapped him as border czar. "What it means is, rather than send 100 people to Boston, we're going to send 200 agents to Boston. We're going to get the job done," he said. Homan also said the administration would focus first on undocumented immigrants who have committed crimes. "It's not going to be a massive sweep of neighborhoods. It's not going to be massive raids. It's going to be a targeted enforcement operation," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 'We have to be prepared' State Sen. Joe Cervantes, a Las Cruces Democrat whose district borders Mexico, called Trump's proposal to deport millions of undocumented immigrants in the country "fanciful," citing the impracticality of such a rigorous task. "I think everyone recognizes it would be an impossibility, and there are far more sensible and effective proposals across the aisle to address our immigration problem," he said, adding it's important to recognize New Mexico and the U.S. have "significant border issues." "But the idea of exporting 12 million people, I don't know a sensible person who believes that's going to occur," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury, who represents New Mexico's 1st Congressional District in the central part of the state, said "we are all bracing ourselves for the reality" Trump will make good on the promises he made on the campaign trail. The announcement that Stephen Miller, the architect of the child separation policy during the last Trump administration, will act as his deputy chief of staff "should tell you everything you need to know about his plans to attack immigrants," she said during a virtual news conference Friday in which she raised alarms about other Trump nominees. Stansbury noted stock in companies used in the past for immigrant detention went up "exponentially high" a day after Trump won the presidential election. "It's very clear that there is an expectation that he plans to deliver on his promise," she said. "Now, what will that look like? What will be legally achievable? I personally would predict that it will be as chaotic as what happened in 2017. ... I think there will be a rush to the courts to try to stop illegal activity, but I think they will absolutely try to do mass detention and family separation, and I think we have to be prepared for that." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 'Take away their labor?' New Mexico House Speaker Javier Martinez, D-Albuquerque, called mass deportation a "complete fallacy" that would not only create a humanitarian crisis but cripple the economy. "Are you telling me that Donald Trump is going to go to big corporate agro businesses and take away their labor? Is he going to go to the oil and gas companies and take away their labor?" he asked. "It would completely upend the economy of the United States if he did any semblance of mass deportation." Like the governor, Martinez advocated for comprehensive immigration reform. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm not going to predict what Trump's going to do or not do he's an unpredictable person, obviously but I can tell you from a practical reality, unless Americans are prepared to pay $7 for a head of lettuce, which I don't think they are because we all heard about the price of milk and eggs over and over again," he said. "Well, eggs are about to get more expensive if Trump deports 11 million people." The Migration Policy Institute, in a 2019 report, estimated 63,000 undocumented immigrants lived in New Mexico at the time, the vast majority from Mexico.That number is likely higher today given a surge in border crossings under the administration of Democratic President Joe Biden. The report also found that more than 70% of undocumented immigrants in the state at that time had been here at least 10 years. In a report earlier this year, the Pew Research Center estimated the unauthorized immigrant population across the entire United States had grown to 11 million in 2022, up from 10.5 million in 2021. "This is the first sustained increase in the unauthorized immigrant population since the period from 2005 to 2007," the center reported. "However, the number of unauthorized immigrants living in the U.S. in 2022 was still below the peak of 12.2 million in 2007." Most demographers rely primarily on the Pew Research Center for data on the number undocumented immigrants, Robert Rhatigan, director of Geospatial and Population Studies at the University of New Mexico, wrote in an email. "Estimating undocumented residents is very difficult even at the national level, and any data is highly uncertain," he wrote. 'Committed to bridging divides' U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez, who represents 180 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border in New Mexico, was unavailable for an interview, and his office didn't respond to specific questions, including his opinion on Trump's mass deportation plans. "At present this is no plan," his spokesperson, Valeria Ojeda-Avitia, said in a statement. "There is simply rhetoric." Ojeda-Avitia said Vasquez would continue to fight for the best interests of the state's 2nd Congressional District, "which includes a secure border and ensuring a legal pathway to citizenship to those who've earned it." She didn't elaborate when asked who has earned a legal pathway to citizenship. Vasquez, who was in a tough reelection fight against former U.S. Rep. Yvette Herrell, the Republican he narrowly defeated two years ago, was constantly hammered over the border and illegal immigration during the campaign. In July, Vasquez and another Democrat and Republican in tight races introduced a bill to try to stem the flow of fentanyl at the southern border. "Congressman Vasquez is committed to bridging divides in Congress, regardless of who is in the White House, to find real solutions and advance policies that reflect the unique needs and values of New Mexico's border communities," Ojeda-Avitia said. While New Mexico's entire congressional delegation is Democratic, they will be in the minority in Congress after Republicans won both the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House, giving Trump's party control. In response to a question, Lujan Grisham said she didn't think it was "outside the realm of possibilities" that Trump would make New Mexico an example after the state voted for Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris and she had stumped for Harris across the country. "People, I think, know me as kind of a fighter for the things that are right," she said. "But they should also expect me, that if there are things this administration proposes that are good for New Mexico, I'm not going to fight that for the sake of a difference in a political agenda. We do the things that make a difference for New Mexicans." When Trump held a rally in Albuquerque just five days before the general election, he harped on border security and illegal immigration a central theme of his campaign and one that was greeted with enthusiastic support from rallygoers who cheered and applauded every time he brought up the subject. "They all said, 'Don't come [to New Mexico],' " Trump said in his opening remarks. "I said, 'Why? They don't want to stop the people pouring across the border that are murderers; they're killers; they're drug addicts; they're drug dealers; they're gang members? Why? New Mexico wants to keep it going like it is?' " he said, prompting a large segment of the crowd to respond "No!" in unison. Follow Daniel J. Chacon on Twitter @danieljchacon. Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Anish Dayal Singh is scheduled to visit Manipur amid continued tensions in the region, sources said. In light of continued tensions, Manipur police officials have arrested 23 individuals who were part of the mob involved in the alleged "ransacking and arson of the houses," said Manipur Police on Sunday. Manipur police officials have arrested 23 individuals who were part of the mob involved in the alleged "ransacking and arson of the houses," said Manipur Police on Sunday. Amid the escalation in the state, a total curfew has been imposed in Imphal until further orders. Following this, the government immediately suspended Internet and mobile data services for two days. According to police officials, 8 persons have been injured in the process of dispersal of the mob that targeted various houses and properties of public representatives in Imphal. Following this incident, heavy security forces including the Army and Assam Rifles were deployed in Imphal. In a post on X, Manipur Police wrote, "On 16.11.2024, irate mobs have targeted various houses and properties of public representatives including Ministers and MLAs of the State in Imphal. Police have resorted to firing tear gas shells etc. to disperse the mob. Security forces including Army and Assam Rifles have been deployed in Imphal to strengthen the security in the town area. Flag marches have been conducted. 08 (eight) persons have been injured in the process of mob dispersal." "Further, 23 persons who were part of the mob indulging in ransacking and arson of the houses above have been arrested from Imphal East, Imphal West and Bishnupur Districts and recovered 01 (one) .32 pistol, 07 rounds of SBBL, 08 nos. of mobile phones from their possession, the police added. "Total curfew has been immediately clamped in the town until further orders. Internet and mobile data services have been suspended for 02 (two) days immediately. SsP/ COs have been deployed on the ground to manage the law-and-order situation. Senior officers are critically monitoring the situation round the clock," Manipur police said in its post. (ANI) (Bloomberg) -- F- you, Elon Musk, Brazils first lady said as her husband geared up to host a high-stakes summit of Group of 20 leaders. Most Read from Bloomberg Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rosangela da Silva, the wife of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, took aim at the billionaire owner of the X platform at a Saturday event in Rio de Janeiro while talking about the need to regulate social media networks and combat fake news. The feud has been brewing between Lulas camp and the worlds richest man since even before Brazils Supreme Court blocked access to X earlier this year. Janja, as the first lady is known, last year threatened to sue the social media company after an apparent hack of her account, accusing Musk of failing to adequately respond. Musk later responded on X to a video of Janja cursing him, saying they will lose the next election. Brazils next presidential contest is in 2026. Leftist Lula had a razor-thin victory over far-right incumbent Jair Bolsonaro in 2022. Lula moved quickly into damage control mode. After Janja spoke at the event he said that we dont have to offend or curse anyone. A spokesperson for Janja declined to comment on Sunday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bolsonaro, Lulas arch rival who Musk openly backs, immediately seized on the episode to criticize the government on social media. On Sunday morning, he shared a video of a meeting with Musk during his presidency, when the government sought support for projects to deliver Internet to remote regions like the Amazon rainforest. Musk is also a major supporter of President-elect Donald Trump, who tapped him to co-lead a new government efficiency effort and whose November election victory has already clouded Lulas G-20 ambitions and set the stage for conflicts between the US and Brazil over their trade, environmental and economic policies. Brazilian officials close to the president have downplayed the potential impact of the remarks, and Lulas government trying to ignore the dust-up in an effort to keep it from overshadowing his G-20 agenda, according to people with knowledge of the situation who requested anonymity to discuss internal matters. But it has nevertheless generated concerns that the comments gave Bolsonaros movement an opening to criticize the government during an event that had otherwise sidelined Lulas opponents and put the president at the center of the global stage, the people said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Influential First Lady Brazilian presidential spouses have typically played far less prominent roles than first ladies in the US and some other nations. But Janja has emerged as a central figure in Brazilian politics since her relationship with Lula first became public in 2019. The couple married in 2022, five years after they began dating shortly before Lula was sent to prison on a corruption conviction. Janja was among the presidents supporters who camped outside the jail where Lula was incarcerated, and they often exchanged love letters throughout his 580-day stint behind bars. The social media-savvy sociologist served as fixture in Lula campaign events throughout his 2022 presidential run, and has become an influential and heavily scrutinized player in his government since his return to the top job. Unlike Lulas first wife, who died after a stroke in 2017 during the investigations into him, she regularly weighs in on internal policy debates, at times dictates access to the leftist leader and has shaped the governments public messaging. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president has long credited her for his personal and political rejuvenation. She has even shaped the G-20 schedule, organizing a series of concerts and events that some Brazilians have dubbed Janjapalooza a play on the name of the popular music festival. Her active role in the government and the presidents political decision-making has at times irked others inside the government and coalition parties, generating criticism that she has isolated Lula from some allies. But it has also fueled her own popularity in a deeply polarized nation, fostering speculation among some within the leftist Workers Party that she is a potential successor once Lula eventually steps aside whether ahead of the 2026 presidential election or in subsequent races. Nearly half of Brazilians said they had a positive image of their first lady in LatAm Pulse, a survey conducted by AtlasIntel for Bloomberg News in October. Only Lula himself earned higher marks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement --With assistance from Andrew Rosati. (Updates with additional comments and context from fifth paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. A Newport Beach startup is bringing new life to an old idea: overnight train service between L.A. and San Francisco. Dreamstar Lines announced Tuesday it has partnered with Designworks, BMW Group's design subsidiary, to create concepts for luxury rail cars that could have Angelenos falling asleep at Union Station and waking up in the Bay Area by summer 2025. The Streamliner Lark offered premium overnight travel. Courtesy of Southern Pacific Railroad Archives The collaboration will focus on developing first-class suites with private bedrooms and bathrooms, standard cars with both seating and sleeping accommodations and social spaces, including lounge cars with open seating and bars, KTLA reports. Dreamstar CEO Joshua Dominic says Designworks was chosen for their ability to deliver on the company's vision of "high-end, luxurious and desirable" travel. The concept aims to revive a service not seen since Southern Pacific's "Lark" route ended its run in 1968. Unlike the state's ongoing high-speed rail project or existing Amtrak services, Dreamstar's focus is on transforming overnight rail travel into a hotel-like experience, offering travelers a more relaxed alternative to crowded airports and long drives. Step back in time with this stunning view of Southern Pacifics legendary locomotive, once the heart of overnight rail travel in California. By Drew Jacksich from San Jose, CA, The Republic of California via Southern Pacific Railroad Archives Earlier this year, the company reached a memorandum of understanding with Union Pacific, which owns most of the Coast Line railroad right-of-way needed for the service. While formal agreements with Union Pacific and local rail operators Metrolink and Caltrain are still being negotiated, Dreamstar remains optimistic about launching by next summer. If successful in California, the company plans to expand the luxury sleeper service to other markets, positioning itself as an eco-friendly alternative to short-haul flights while avoiding what it calls the "challenges of traditional rail, airlines, automobiles and buses" including crowded hubs, stopovers, and minimal amenities. Provided by Dreamstar Lines Courtesy of California High-Speed Rail Authority Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rediscover luxury travel with Dreamstars overnight sleeper train, blending breathtaking views, private suites, and social lounges for a serene, hotel-like journey. Digital Edit of rendering via Dreamstar Lines Get the latest news delivered to your inbox daily! Sign up for Los Angeles Magazines The Daily Brief below or click here. Nov. 16MADISON A quick-moving fire damaged an old, two-story Houghton Street home Saturday, drawing dozens of firefighters from area towns. Madison fire Chief Don French said he called the Office of State Fire Marshal to the scene to help confirm the cause of the fire. "It's not suspicious at all," French said around 2:30 p.m. at the scene. The fire was reported around 12:30 p.m. as an outside brush fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I was first on the scene," he said. "When I came, there was heavy fire on the back side of the house. The whole upstairs had heavy, heavy, heavy smoke that's why I decided to go to a second alarm." At the scene, firefighters were climbing a ladder to the second floor, while others were throwing insulation and other items out of a one-story addition to the back of the house, which was blackened and charred on the outside. French said there was heavy smoke and water damage throughout the house, from the basement to the attic. About 40 firefighters from Madison, Anson, Starks, Norridgewock, Athens, Waterville and Skowhegan responded to the scene. Ambulances from Redington-Fairview General Hospital and Anson-Madison-Starks arrived at the scene as well. Somerset County Sheriff's officials blocked off Houghton Street to traffic as emergency crews worked. French said the Waterville Fire Department brought its Rapid Intervention Team, also known as RIT, in case a firefighter needed to be rescued, which did not occur. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement French said no one was hurt in the fire. A neighbor said the occupants had lived in the home a long time. The homeowner is insured, and the American Red Cross was called to help the family. French praised the firefighters, saying, "The boys made a hell of a save. I'm so proud of my guys. Mutual aid is wonderful." Copy the Story Link Comments are not available on this story. Major James Nairne, who has died aged 100, saw active service with the Seaforth Highlanders in the campaign in north-west Europe, and after retiring from the Army he served as a Queens Messenger. James Kemp Nairne, the third of four boys, was born in Belfast on December 7 1923. His father, Lieutenant-Colonel Charles Nairne, had served with the Seaforth Highlanders in the First World War and was a talented artist. His mother was an active member of an amateur dramatic company. Young James was brought up in the countryside near Winchester before going to Dauntseys School at West Lavington in Wiltshire. In June 1942 he enlisted in the Seaforth Highlanders, in which one of his brothers was already serving. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After basic training at Fort George, Inverness, on June 3 1944 Nairne embarked at Tilbury Docks for Operation Overlord, the invasion of Normandy. He landed on Gold Beach on June 7 (D-Day+1) and fought throughout the campaign as a rifleman in the 2nd Battalion. He served in the Intelligence Section until early in 1945, when he became a section commander. At the end of the year he was a corporal and decided to apply for officer training. After being granted a regular commission in November, he served in Germany and Gibraltar before moving to Malaya with the 1st Battalion, where he was second-in-command of a company on internal security operations during the Emergency. In 1955, he served with the 1st Battalion in the Western Aden Protectorate on operations against dissident tribal groups before returning to Gibraltar as a company commander. After nine months at Munster in West Germany in command of a company, in 1959 he retired from the Army in the rank of major. Nairne joined The Scotsman newspaper, based in Edinburgh, as a research assistant and, after a few years, became their assistant advertisement manager. He recalled that his main task was preparing the lay-out for the daily edition. Since he had never been much of a mathematician this was not easy, and it was often made more difficult by the need to pacify a sub-editor whose special piece had to be held over in favour of an advertisement on its way by train from London a pre-digital age, indeed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1965, restless, in search of a more demanding role and imbued with a spirit of public service, he was attracted by the idea of joining the Corps of Queens Messengers. The job required 24-hour dedication, total discretion and considerable reserves of patience. It involved conveying confidential messages and documents for the Foreign & Commonwealth Office to British embassies and high commissions around the world. Journeys could be complicated. A visit to Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, took Nairne 38 hours by train across China. He had to carry his own spirit stove and rations since eating local food might prove to be imprudent. Nairne in 1959 In 1988, after nearly 24 years of service, almost 900 journeys travelling with 75 different airlines, covering more than five million miles to deliver 16,306 diplomatic bags, Nairne retired. The bags were always given the airline seat next to him and occasionally included clandestine jars of Coopers Oxford marmalade. Travel allowed him to employ two of his special talents, watercolour painting and tapestry-making. The first was a family tradition, but Nairnes own speciality was creating exquisite watercolour postcards. He recorded places and views and added messages in his excellent italic hand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The tapestry was portable and a way of filling spare time overseas. He produced a kneeler for Gordonstoun School and another for the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst. Other interests in retirement included serving as calligrapher to the Imperial Society of Knights Bachelor. At Winchester Cathedral, he served as a sidesman for eight years and as a member of the Council of Friends for more than 10. Nairne lived in his own flat in Winchester surrounded by his paintings, sketchbooks and diaries, together with regimental mementos. When he could no longer travel, this was where he wanted to see his family and friends and it was made possible by the help and dedication of those who cared for him. He had a gift for mimicry and was excellent company but, above all, he cared deeply about fellow soldiers, colleagues, friends and family. For the rest of his life he was an active supporter of his regimental association. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement James Nairne never married. The obituary of his elder brother, Sir Patrick Nairne, appeared in The Daily Telegraph in 2013. Major James Nairne, born December 7 1923, died October 13 2024 Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. NEW YORK Three months ago, male model Dynus Saxon confidently strutted down the red carpet at the premiere of the superhero smash Deadpool & Wolverine. It was one of several red carpet rides the steely eyed, square-jawed stunner had made over the last few years as his modeling career blossomed. He struck a far less assured pose late Friday as he stood quietly before a Bronx Criminal Court judge, accused of murder for stabbing a young father to death in a friends apartment. Sporting a grimy, high-end brown sweater, nylon parachute pants and a large bandage over his right hand, the towering Saxon said nothing and appeared subdued as a judge ordered him held without bail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Saxon, 20, is accused of fatally knifing Kadeem Grant in the neck and chest as his victim dozed on a couch in the small Mott Haven apartment on Grand Concourse near E. 144th St. The model was visiting the apartment when he attacked Grant without any apparent provocation, police sources said. Saxon got up and got a knife and went after the guy, the tenant told police after the Nov. 10 attack. Responding cops found Grant, 35, dead, the knife still sticking out of his chest. Saxon was arrested at the scene. He was bleeding from a deep gash to his right hand that he incurred from repeatedly jamming the knife into Grants chest, prosecutors said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was briefly hospitalized and underwent a psychological evaluation before showing up at court with his injured hand conspicuously bandaged. Police charged him with murder, manslaughter and weapons possession. Hes expected to return to court and answer the charges on Dec. 3. While in custody, Saxons first call was to his mother. I was his person that (Saxon) wanted to call from the hospital, his mom, who didnt share her name, told The New York Daily News Tuesday. Theres a lot that it possibly could be and I just kind of got to wait to see what is said. Saxon couldnt remember what happened when he spoke to his mother, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont know what happened, but I can tell yall based on what I do know, that its not going to be as simple as you want to make it, she said. Dynus didnt just decide to murder somebody. Neither Saxon nor Grant lived in the apartment where the killing took place. Saxon knows the tenant, who also knows Grant, police sources said. Detectives believe at least two of the men were involved in a sexual relationship but it was unclear which two. Police are investigating the possibility of a love triangle but also believe Saxon may have just snapped with no motive. Saxon, of East Harlem, has appeared in Vogue Italia, LOfficiel Baltic and ad campaigns for Levis. After learning of his arrest, Dot Models New York, which represented Saxon, pulled his images off the companys website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grants heartbroken father, who was traveling to New York from his home in Florida on Tuesday to deal with the tragedy, told the Daily News his son had a 3-year-old daughter. He was just a loving kid who was there for his family and his daughter, Christopher Grant said. Its just sad that she has to grow up without a father. A 38-year-old Davenport man who faces arson charges in Rock Island County now faces a felony charge in Scott County, according to court records. Frederick McKenzie faces a Scott County felony charge of dominion/control of a firearm/offensive weapon by a felon and an aggravated misdemeanor charge of assault while displaying a dangerous weapon, arrest affidavits show. Frederick McKenzie (Scott County Jail) A disturbance in Davenport Shortly after 6:45 p.m. Wednesday, Davenport Police responded to the 1100 block of Warren Street for a disturbance, according to affidavits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McKenzie went into a residence with a black semi-automatic gun, displaying it at the victim, affidavits say. He knowingly placed the victim in fear of serious bodily injury or death by further racking the firearm in the kitchen of the residence. In affidavits, police say McKenzie is prohibited from possessing a firearm based upon numerous prior felony convictions dating back to 2004. (McKenzie) has a Robbery conviction out of Rock Island County, Illinois on 07/05/2006. Officers recovered a loaded Smith & Wesson semi-automatic firearm in this case, affidavits show. He was released on his own recognizance from Scott County Jail, and is set for a preliminary hearing Dec. 3 in Scott County Court, according to court records. A fire in Moline McKenzie is on active GPS monitoring through Rock Island County as a term of bond conditions on a Class X felony count of aggravated arson, according to court records. (photo: Dave Logan) A former resident of Timber Knoll Apartments in Moline, McKenzie was charged with setting the complex on fire on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023, police and court records say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At 10:12 a.m., the Moline Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 3700 block of 53rd Street, a 16-unit multi-family apartment complex known as Timber Knoll Apartments. Moline Fire and Police responded and found a blaze that was brought under control by firefighters, according to a release from Moline Police. The Moline Police Department Criminal Investigation Division and the Moline Fire Bureau of Investigations conducted an investigation into the cause and origin of the fire. Witnesses reported seeing a person inside the apartment complex with what appeared to be a gas can moments before the fire, police said. Investigators conducted interviews and gathered evidence. This led investigators to Davenport, where they located McKenzie in the 2200 block of Telegraph Road, the release says. Moline Police were assisted by the Davenport Police Department and Iowa State Patrol. The Rock Island County States Attorney filed charges and a warrant was issued for his arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rock Island County records indicate McKenzie faces charges of aggravated arson/knowing people were present and residential arson. A pretrial/status hearing in that case is set for Nov. 21 in Rock Island County Court, according to court documents. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com. SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) A Sioux City man was arrested on Saturday after eluding law enforcement in a stolen vehicle that belonged to a Sioux City police officer. According to the complaint documents, at 2:56 and 4:05 p.m., Elwood Freemont, 34, of Sioux City, was listed as being involved in a police pursuit while driving a stolen vehicle. Man who robbed Sioux City bank sentenced to federal prison The documents state that Freemont eluded law enforcement in South Sioux City and was then seen by the Sioux City Police Department driving the wrong way down 6th Street at 70 mph in a 35 mph zone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Freemont crashed the stolen vehicle and continued to elude officers on foot before being apprehended, according to the documents. The victim was informed of stolen items that were valued at approximately $357.49 after the fact. Freemont was charged with first-degree theft, fourth-degree theft, and eluding at speeds 25 mph over the speed limit. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. (KRON) The San Pablo Police Department arrested a man accused of stealing tools from multiple cars on Saturday night, the department announced. An alarm call alerted San Pablo police officers of an issue at an unknown building. While police were en route to the scene, they reviewed camera footage and noticed a suspect breaking into multiple vehicles. The suspect stole multiple tools from several work trucks, according to San Pablo PD. Image provided by the San Pablo Police Department Tool Man arrested in San Jose retail theft bust Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers located and arrested the suspect the same night. Police also recovered the stolen tools. The department issued a warning to thieves on its social media, Just a reminder dont steal in San Pablo, or you will be arrested. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. Vikash Yadav, accused of attempting to murder Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannu in the United States, has filed an application before a Delhi court requesting exemption from attending his case hearing. Yadav claims that his personal details have been made public, putting his life at risk. He has asked the court to grant him relief from being present for the hearing due to the ongoing security threat. The plea stated that false and baseless allegations have been made against the applicant (Vikas Yadav) and that his personal details--such as his address, background, and photographs--have been widely circulated globally, thereby exposing him to a serious threat to his life from malicious elements. The plea further stated that the applicant is being relentlessly monitored by hostile elements, who are attempting to track him at all possible locations, leaving him with no option but to remain confined for his safety. It was also argued that the threat to the applicant's life is immediate, grave, and imminent and that his physical presence in court could provide an opportunity for these elements to harm him. Given these circumstances, the plea emphasized that even appearing via video conference would be highly unsafe, as the applicant's location could potentially be traced using electronic technology, thereby reinforcing the request for exemption. Noting the submissions, the Delhi court granted the applicant exemption from attending the hearing on Saturday and directed him to appear on February 3. Vikash Yadav, said to be a former RAW official, has been named by the US in connection with the failed assassination attempt on Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Recently, Vikas Yadav's lawyers denied the allegations against him, claiming they were false and that he was being made a scapegoat in international political conflicts. A Vikash Yadav, was arrested by the Special Cell of Delhi Police in December of last year following a complaint from a businessman based in Rohini, northwest Delhi. A chargesheet was filed in March this year, and Yadav was granted bail in April. Yadav is facing a trial under charges of attempted murder and kidnapping. (ANI) SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) A man in Springfield was arrested earlier this week after throwing an axe at a state police cruiser. According to Massachusetts State Police, on Monday troopers were patrolling the Springfield Barracks around 9 p.m. when a man in his 30s approached the passenger side of their vehicle. Rise in suspected rabies reported in Northampton, Easthampton Troopers also saw that the man was carrying a hatchet, several knives and a machete. After a verbal exchange, the man struck the cruiser several times with the hatchet, before throwing it at the passenger side of the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident was caught on body cam footage. The man was later arrested with the help of additional State and Springfield Police. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Airport security stopped the smuggler, who was also carrying nine bullet ants illegally taken from the Amazon rainforest gob.pe One of the 320 tarantulas One of the 320 tarantulas Authorities arrested a man in Peru after his bulging clothes gave him and the hundreds of tarantulas strapped to his body away, as he attempted to leave the country with them. Security officials at Limas Jorge Chavez International Airport stopped the alleged smuggler, a 28-year-old South Korean man, on Nov. 8 because his stomach appeared abnormally swollen while he was passing through security, Perus National Forest and Wildlife Service (SERFOR) said in a press release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man, who was not identified, was asked to lift his shirt, revealing two belts that had been adorned with camouflaged bags and packages containing tarantulas and other bugs, according to the wildlife service. Specialists with the government agency later tallied the concealed critters, counting 35 adult tarantulas, 285 juvenile tarantulas, 110 centipedes and nine bullet ants. gob.pe Some of the tarantulas a man tried to smuggle out of Peru Some of the tarantulas a man tried to smuggle out of Peru Related: Man Trying to Smuggle Over 100 Live Snakes in His Pants Caught by Officials The adult tarantulas were described as human hand-sized, each taking up a large plastic container, while the juveniles shared space in small tubes that were stuffed from either end to prevent their escape, as seen in photos of the confiscated specimens. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of the creatures are native to the Peruvian Amazon, and the tarantulas, specifically, are on Perus list of endangered species, Walter Silva, a wildlife specialist at SERFOR, explained in the release. The agency believes they were extracted from Madre de Dios, a biodiverse region whose forests make up 12% of the Peruvian Amazon, according to the World Wildlife Fund. gob.pe A collection of insects a man tried to smuggle out of Peru A collection of insects a man tried to smuggle out of Peru Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Silva said he believes the illegally extracted bugs are part of a global trade in which wildlife is smuggled and sold for high prices, generating millions of dollars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also explained that smuggling cases like these arise more often as Christmas nears, as illegally trafficked critters tend to fetch higher prices during the holiday season. gob.pe The juvenile tarantulas a man attempted to smuggle out of Peru The juvenile tarantulas a man attempted to smuggle out of Peru Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This smuggler, in particular, was headed to Korea with a planned stop in France, according to the press release. The National Police of Peru arrested the man, and the Environmental Prosecutor's Office opened an investigation into the case. The creatures, meanwhile, have been moved from their overcrowded storage and put in a safe place, SERFOR said. AKRON, Ohio (WJW) A man was arrested after investigators say a caretaker was stabbed to death at an Akron group home Friday night. According to the Akron Police Department, officers were called to a fight at a residence described to be a group home in the 1700 block of Shaw Avenue around 9:22 p.m. Officers received a 911 call from a woman who said she was pushed by a client at the home. Las Vegas woman found dead in freezer called police weeks earlier, 911 caller says Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When officers got there, they found a man at the door with injuries to his hands. The officers stepped inside and found the victim, a 56-year-old woman, who was unresponsive and suffered from an apparent stab wound. The woman, who investigators say was the caretaker who made the 911 call, was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators identified the injured man, 34-year-old Jarel Wooden, as the suspect. After receiving medical attention, Wooden was arrested on a murder charge and taken to the Summit County jail. The victims name hasnt been released at this time. The fatal stabbing remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to reach out to the Akron Police Department Detective Bureau at 330-375- 2490 or 330-375-2Tip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. A man is dead and another is in custody after a stabbing in Darke County Saturday. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] As News Center 7 previously reported, Greenville Police officers were dispatched at 10 p.m. to the 600 block of Walnut Street on reports of a stabbing. When officers arrived at the scene they began rendering aid to Kyle Brown, 35, who had been stabbed. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brown was flown to Miami Valley Hospital where he later died, police said in a media release Sunday. Police located Matthew McKnight, 48, near the scene and arrested him. Further information about what led up to the stabbing or the initial charges McKnight faces was not included in the media release. We will continue to follow this story. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) An investigation is underway after a man was found shot outside of a shopping complex in East Nashville early Sunday morning. Just after 3 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 17, officers responded to reports of a shooting in the 100 block of Ewing Drive. 1 dead after shooting at bowling alley in Hermitage According to a release from the Metro Nashville Police Department, Gerald Muse, 45, had been shot several times and was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials said a ski mask and a stolen handgun were found near his body. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Multiple people reportedly told officers they heard gunshots from the parking lot. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com The MNPD said investigators are pursuing active leads, but the motive for the shooting remains unclear. No additional information was released. If you know anything about Sundays deadly incident, youre asked to call Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. Download the News 2 app to stay updated on the go. Sign up for WKRN email alerts to have breaking news sent to your inbox. Find todays top stories on WKRN.com for Nashville, TN and all of Middle Tennessee. This is a developing story. WKRN News 2 will continue to update this article as new information becomes available. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. CNNs Jake Tapper took his interview with Mike Johnson to a personal level as he quizzed the Republican House Speaker on how his support for President-elect Donald Trumps controversial Cabinet nominations squared with his Christian family values. Johnson has been asked by several Republican congressmen and senators to release the details in a House Ethics Committee investigation into allegations that Matt Gaetz, who is Trumps pick for Attorney General, had sex with a 17-year-old. In an interview on Sunday, Tapper challenged the House Speaker on whether he planned to release the report and on his support of Trumps cabinet choices, which include more than one man who has been accused of sexual assault. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Take a step back, because you and I have known each other for a long time, Tapper began. Youre a man of faith. Youre a man of God, youre a man of family. With some of these nominees Gaetz, Hegseth, RFK Jr. I wonder, does it matter anymore for Republicans to think of leaders as people who are moral in their personal lives? Is that still important to the Republican Party? Its an important issue for anyone in leadership, Johnson agreed before going on a rambling spiel about how Trumps picks will buck the status quo. I think what the American people have believed, and what they delivered with the mandate in this election, is demand that we shake up the status quo, he continued. Its not working for the American people. So use the term in the opening about how these are disruptors. They are, I think thats by design. Johnson also called on the Senate to swiftly approve Trumps cabinet picks so that they can run with the administration on day one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the interview, Johnson also said he had not discussed the investigation report into Gaetz with Trump and that the report should not be published as Gaetz was no longer a member of the House since his resignation earlier this week. Theres a very important protocol and tradition and rule that we maintain that the House Ethics committees jurisdiction does not extend to non members of Congress. I think that would be a Pandoras box. I dont think we want the House Ethics Committee using all of its vast resources and powers to go after private citizens, and thats what Matt Gaetz is now. Tapper pointed out that there had been precedent for the House releasing ethics committee reports into members who have resigned. There have been, I understand, I think two exceptions to the rule over the whole history of Congress and the history of the ethics committee, but I wasnt the speaker at that time, Johnson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im the speaker now. The speaker does not have the authority to stop the release of a report by the ethics committee, but Ive just simply said what I believe is an obvious point, that we dont want to go down that road. I dont think you want the house ethics committee investigating Jake Tapper or any other private citizen, Johnson added. He also claimed that the investigation had not been completed. COLUMBIA, Tenn. (WKRN) Maury County will soon decide whether animal control officers should wear body cameras after a 130-pound Labrador named Neil died while officers were trying to capture him last month. Maury County Animal Services dispatched the officers after receiving a call about an aggressive dog. News 2 obtained the recording of the voicemail. There is a dog that is harassing the neighbors and they were not able to get out of the car or the house. Hes coming down here because my dog is in heat and I need him picked up, the caller said. Hes very dangerous. Hes going to bite one of the children or relatives of mine that come here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neils owner, Michael Grieshaber, said while he was sick with the flu, he lost track of Neil, so he called law enforcement and Maury County Animal Services to look for him. Cannot replace my dogs: Former Tennessee deputy charged after 7 dogs shot, killed According to the shelter director for Maury County, Kimberly Raffauf, Neil was wandering the neighborhood for five days. On Oct. 16, Grieshaber said he received a phone call from an officer who told him Neil had died. Grieshaber described the phone call to News 2: The officer called and said that, was that my dog, and for me to call him, and I called him and I said, Aww, dont tell me somebody shot mywho shot my dog? He said, No, he wasnt shot, and then they told me that he was strangled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Based on the capture report from Maury County officials, neither of the dogs owners were home and Neil wasnt microchipped, so they werent immediately able to identify Neils owner. Raffauf said animal control officers put a catch pole on Neil and led him to their vehicle, but they had trouble lifting him since he weighed about 130 pounds. Man facing animal cruelty charge after dog shot in Sumner County There was a freak accident where the pole tightened, so they were trying to hurry to get him in the vehicle, and [Neil] was working against it, Raffauf explained. An animal control officer in training who was on scene said when the lead officer was looking for a way to get Neil into the trunk, she realized the dog was too calm. According to the capture report, Neil was too limp, and then he went unconscious. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After hearing about Neils death, Grieshaber said his first reaction was shock, followed by heartbreak. Hes big, beautiful, muscular, intimidating looking, but hes nothing but a big old bear, he said. When asked if Neil had ever hurt anyone before Grieshaber said, NeverIve got 12 grandchildren, 10 granddaughters and two grandsons, and he grew up with all of them. Hes never bit anybody, ever. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com Raffauf told News 2 she terminated the lead animal control officer who was in charge of capturing Neil. After Neils death, Grieshaber donated body cameras to the shelter in hopes animal control officers will wear them. Raffauf said she is in favor of the cameras and proposed the idea at the Maury County Health and Safety Committee meeting. It will ultimately be up to Maury County officials to decide whether animal control officers will wear the cameras. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To cope with the loss of Neil, Grieshaber adopted a German Shepherd puppy from the shelter named Darcy. While shell never replace Neil, Raffauf said she hopes Darcy will give Grieshaber and his family some peace and comfort. Its our family, you know? said Grieshaber. You could have everything I own, but not my dog. You can have my truck, my houseI just want my dog. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) A Sioux City man will be sent to federal prison after being convicted of robbing Great Southern Bank in downtown Sioux City early this year. According to court documents, Jonathan Birdnecklace, 32, was sentenced Friday in United States District Court to five years and three months (a total of 63 months) in prison. He will also have to serve three years of supervised release after his prison sentence. Macy man sentenced to federal prison for sexual abuse of minor over 2 years Jonathan Birdnecklace (Courtesy: Woodbury County Sheriffs Office) Birdnecklace was originally charged with second-degree burglary following an incident on Jan. 23, 2024. On that day, Birdnecklace went to Great Southern Bank on Pierce Street at approximately 9:51 a.m. with the intention of robbing it, court documents stated. While there, Birdnecklace allegedly handed a note to a teller demanding money and threatening them. Birdnecklace received more than $2,000 and left the bank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was arrested that afternoon. Documents stated that the money he had on him was money from the robbery. Birdnecklace pleaded not guilty to second-degree burglary in February. On March 28, the case was filed in Iowa Northern District Court, and Birdnecklace was federally charged with bank robbery by force or violence in violation of 18 U.S. Code 2113(a). Former Plymouth County deputy sentenced again for pharmacy burglaries following retrial Then, on April 1, the state of Iowa motioned to dismiss the state case due to federal prosecutors pursuing the case or the same circumstances which formed the basis of the States charges herein. A judge approved the motion later that day, and the case was dismissed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Birdnecklace had been previously convicted of robbing the exact same bank in 2014. He pleaded guilty to second-degree robbery as part of an April 2015 plea agreement. An additional charge was dismissed as part of the agreement. He was sentenced then to 10 years in prison, fined $1,000, and ordered to pay $200 in restitution to the bank. Wesley Thoene contributed to this report. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. KANSAS CITY, Mo. Police are investigating after a man was found shot and killed in the parking lot of an Independence, Missouri restaurant Saturday night. According to the Independence Police Department (IPD), at about 11 p.m., officers were dispatched to the Twin Peaks Restaurant located along East Jackson Drive less than a half-mile from Little Blue Parkway on reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers found a man in the parking lot suffering from a gunshot wound. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Car chase turned trooper-involved shooting leaves one injured in KC The victim was taken to a hospital where he was later pronounced dead. According to IPD, a person of interest was taken into custody on the scene. Police said there was no danger to the public. The IPD Criminal Investigations Unit is investigating the case. This is a developing story. Stay tuned at FOX4 News for the latest updates and details. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. Police have announced the arrest of a man who they say sexually assaulted a 4-year-old girl at a park in Santa Ana. The Santa Ana Police Department put out an alert on social media Wednesday indicating detectives began searching for the suspect identified as Benedicto Partida Quinonez after multiple witnesses reported seeing him touch the girl inappropriately while she was on a swing set. The exact date and time of the incident was not released. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to multiple witness statements, the victim was sitting on a swing set when Benedicto touched her buttocks over her clothing, SAPD said on Wednesday. He then fled the area on foot. She didnt deserve what happened to her at all: Family devastated after loved one fatally shot in South L.A. Partida Quinonez, 58, was featured on the departments Wanted Wednesday social media post this week; police were advising the public at the time to be on the lookout for him and to call them with any information on his whereabouts. However, authorities announced Saturday night that the information was no longer needed, as Partida Quinonez had been located taken into custody that day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Where he was located was not disclosed. The exact nature of his charges is also unclear. Individuals with further information on the incident are asked to contact Cpl. Detective D. Gray by calling 714-245-8381 or emailing dgray@santa-ana.org Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. On November 17, a group of NGO leaders and public activists in Azerbaijan staged a protest outside the hotel where U.S. Congressman Frank Pallone, known for his anti-Azerbaijan stance and pro-Armenian remarks, is staying, Azernews reports. The protesters are calling for Pallone to apologize to the Azerbaijani people and for criminal charges to be filed against his security guards, who allegedly used violence against activists during a peaceful demonstration the previous day. The ongoing protest has seen activists signing a petition urging the **Ministry of Internal Affairs of Azerbaijan** to launch a criminal case against Pallone's security team. Additionally, the protesters are demanding that Pallone be held accountable for his defamatory statements and his past actions, including illegally crossing Azerbaijan's borders multiple times during the occupation period. NGO representatives emphasized that the protest is a peaceful call for justice, urging legal action against Pallone for his inflammatory campaigns against Azerbaijan. State Minister Nara Lokesh also paid his tribute to the younger brother of Andhra Pradesh CM Naidu. Earlier on Sunday, the mortal remains of Ramamurthy Naidu were transported from the airport to the Nara Vari Palle. Family members including Minister Nara Lokesh and others joined the procession. Ramamurthy Naidu passed away on Saturday at the age of 72 years due to a cardiac arrest at AIG Hospitals in Gachibowli, Hyderabad. Earlier on Saturday, leaders of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) expressed deep sorrow over his sudden passing during a mourning session held at the TDP office. The leaders recalled him as the voice of the poor and a man of the people. They also paid floral tributes to a portrait of Ramamurthy Naidu. Speaking on the occasion, TDP State President Palla Srinivas Rao and Politburo Member Varla Ramaiah hailed Ramamurthy Naidu as a humanitarian who fostered unity among people. They noted his selfless dedication to public welfare and his relentless efforts for the TDP's success. The leaders praised his ideals, stating that Ramamurthy Naidu envisioned a society free of injustice and hoped for the establishment of "Rama Rajya" (a utopian state of governance). They emphasised that his goodness and humanity had earned him a permanent place in the hearts of the people and that individuals like him are rare. While he is no longer with us, they remarked, he will always be remembered by the people. Prominent attendees at the meeting included former MLA Peela Govind Satyanarayana, AP State Organic Products Certification Authority Chairman Shyaval Devadath, Gouda Corporation Chairman Gurumurthy, Handloom Cooperative Chairperson Sajja Hemalatha, Minority Cell President Mustaq Ahmed, Media Coordinator Dharapaneni Narendra Babu, Brahmin Welfare Committee Convener Bucchirampasad, TDP State Spokesperson Patharla Ramesh, TDP Central Office Reception In-Charge Haji Hasan Basha, NRI Cell Representative Chappidi Rajasekhar, and party leaders Shankar Naidu, Ravi Yadav, Mulaka Satyavani, and Peerayya Subhashini, among others. (ANI) (FOX40.COM) A pedestrian man in a wheelchair was killed after a car crashed into him on Saturday morning, according to the California Highway Patrol. Around 5:30 a.m., CHP responded to Watt Avenue near Roseville Road for a man in a wheelchair who was in one of the street lanes. Details on why he was in the road are unclear but, he was hit by a sedan. Arrest made in $35,000 retail theft operation in Northern California Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said the pedestrian was transported to the hospital with major injuries and was later pronounced dead. The cause of the collision is under investigation. DUI is not suspected. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. A rally-march began in Berlin, at Potsdamer Platz, which was attended, in particular, by the organisers, Yulia Navalnaya, Vladimir Kara-Murza, and Ilya Yashin. Source: DW; Novaya Gazeta Europe Details: By the start of the manifestation, the police projected that there would be around 1.800 participants. Ukrainians were also on the scene, demanding that the "fascist rag" (i.e. the Russian flag) be removed. In response, the Russians yelled at them, asking the Ukrainians why they were "not on the battlefield". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The participants' demands include the withdrawal of Russian soldiers from Ukraine, the release of political prisoners, and Putin's indictment as a war criminal. In addition, the "Russian opposition" organised an action in Prague that will coincide with a march for Czech democracy. Approximately a thousand individuals gathered on the square. The media also reports on a rally in Warsaw, where perhaps a hundred people gathered. Support UP or become our patron! On Nov. 5, Donald Trump was reelected president, sparking renewed concerns about the future of marriage equality. Trumps prior statements, such as his support for traditional marriage and belief that marriage should be between a man and a woman, have fueled fears. While he once labeled marriage equality cases as settled, he has also stated he would consider appointing justices willing to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges. While presidents wield significant power through executive actions, its crucial to remember the substantial legal protections that marriage equality has gained over the past decade. Chief among these is the landmark 2015 Obergefell decision, where Justice Anthony Kennedys majority opinion affirmed that marriage equality is a fundamental right protected by the 14th Amendment: The right to marry is a fundamental right inherent in the liberty of the person, and under the Due Process and Equal Protection Clauses of the Fourteenth Amendment couples of the same-sex may not be deprived of that right and that liberty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because Obergefell established marriage equality as a constitutional right, it cannot be overturned by federal law or executive order but only by the Supreme Court. Courts generally hesitate to reverse their previous decisions because of the principle of stare decisis, which upholds the stability of legal precedents. However, Supreme Court rulings are not immune to reversal. Notably, only two of the justices who supported Obergefell remain on the bench today: Justices Sonya Sotomayor and Elena Kagan. In her dissenting opinion in Department of State v. Munoz this June, Sotomayor questioned the Supreme Courts commitment to upholding the Obergefell decision. Furthermore, the 2022 Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health decision, which overturned Roe v. Wade, serves in our collective memory as a recent example of the Supreme Court overruling long-held precedent. Though the court has yet to hear any direct challenges to marriage equality, the fallout from Dobbs provides insights into how marriage rights could be safeguarded if Obergefell were ever overturned. A key federal safeguard is the Respect for Marriage Act, which President Joe Biden signed into law on Dec. 13, 2022. This legislation repealed the Defense of Marriage Act, including its definition of marriage as a union between one man and one woman, ensuring federal recognition of same-sex marriages. Additionally, it compels states to recognize same-sex and interracial marriages legally performed in other U.S. states or territories. Notably, the act received bipartisan support, with 39 Republicans in the House and 12 in the Senate voting in favor of its passage. However, the legislations protections hinge on at least one state or territory maintaining marriage equality, even if Obergefell were to be overturned, and for individuals to be able to obtain a marriage in that state or territory without significant barriers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State-level protections are another important defense. This Election Day, voters in California, Colorado and Hawaii joined Nevada in enshrining marriage equality in their state constitutions. Nevertheless, 33 states still have statutory or constitutional bans on marriage equality, which would immediately become enforceable if Obergefell were struck down. These bans could impact nearly 61% of LGBTQ+ adults living in those states. These numbers include the District of Columbia, but do not include individuals in U.S. territories. While Obergefell is not likely to be overturned in the near future, it remains vulnerable. That said, there are far greater federal and state protections for marriage equality than discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community, particularly for transgender and genderqueer individuals. In 2024 alone, a record 532 anti-LGBTQ+ bills were introduced across the U.S. Individuals who would like to wait to be married might want to put down the premature wedding invites and start contacting their state legislators instead. Advocating for protective state legislation, donating to organizations protecting LGBTQ+ rights and staying informed on local and national policies can make a meaningful impact. Grassroots efforts, such as contacting state representatives and encouraging voter turnout in elections, can play a crucial role in advocacy. The future of equality depends not just on the courts, but on the collective efforts of American citizens. Nico B. Stillwell is a civil rights and employment discrimination lawyer at Edelman, Liesen & Myers in Kansas City, Missouri. Nov. 16S-T-E-M! A cheerleading squad at Mary Ann Binford Elementary School in Southwest Albuquerque chanted those letters during a Friday morning assembly at the school to get students excited about science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The squad wasn't just getting students hyped about four subjects they will be studying or could use to launch their future careers they were celebrating the launch of a STEM Center, made possible through a partnership with the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation and ExxonMobil, which donated $65,000 toward the project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The center was the second for the Albuquerque Public Schools, which saw one installed at Marie M. Hughes Elementary School last year. There are currently seven fully funded STEM Centers in New Mexico thanks to the foundation-corporate partnership. On Friday, after greeting her students with "Good morning, Bears!" a reference to the school's mascot Principal Stephanie Nieto kicked off the assembly by asking them, "You know about the STEM lab, right?" The students responded with cheers. Nieto also had another announcement to make: the school was no longer an MRI (More Rigorous Intervention) school by the New Mexico Public Education Department and was once again considered a "traditional school" under the federal Every Student Succeeds Act, which requires states to support their lowest-performing schools. "That means that ... you guys are doing so good at learning reading, math, writing and science," Nieto told students at the assembly. "So this year, we have to continue the work, yes?" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The students cheered again before thanking their teachers in unison at the request of Nieto. In an interview following the announcement, Nieto said representatives of ExxonMobil and the foundation approached APS in September 2023 about looking for a school that could support the STEM lab. Mary Ann Binford Elementary already had a STEM class, but it lacked the ability to teach students about technology, she said. "(The STEM Center) creates so many enrichment opportunities for our students that we didn't before," Nieto said. "Before, we were kind of getting by and trying to investigate through scientific methods. But now, kids have ways to explore, investigate and experiment." All of the components needed to make a STEM Center came to the school within two weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It was a lot; it was really exciting, though, and really unexpected," Nieto said. "We didn't think we were going to receive as many things as we did." Following the assembly, the STEM Center was thriving with activity. Ozobots swarmed a table devoted to teaching robotic coding. Students, with the help of adults, built a Ferris wheel using colorful Kid Spark STEM Labs blocks. Students used insulating play dough from Squishy Circuits to learn the basics of electrical circuiting. Mariya Bryant, a fifth grader, said she loves STEM. Science excites her the most and she is particularly interested when the school brings insects, from cockroaches to butterflies, into the classroom for study. Having learned about the STEM Center last week, Bryant said "it's awesome" to see it in action and she was "really happy to see it when it was finished." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement STEM teacher Barbie Pierson was one of a handful of APS employees wearing a navy-blue STEM Center T-shirt on Friday. "So often, our students don't have things like this," Pierson said. "The excitement and just knowing that they're going to be able to do things that they may never have been able to just makes my heart so full." Pierson and Nieto weren't the only ones guiding students through activities in the STEM Center so were representatives from ExxonMobil and the foundation, named after the father of former Baltimore Orioles shortstop Cal Ripken Jr. Shannon Johnson, vice president of resource development of the foundation, said in an interview that the organization doesn't just give schools a check for a STEM Center and "walk away." The foundation developed a curriculum that is aligned with "NM STEM Ready!" standards, she said, and staff members plan to stay in touch with the school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson, a native New Mexican, said she wants to make sure students have access to inquiry-based learning so they can "start to learn that science is all around them." "(Their education is) a cradle to career, so they will always have a lifelong love of learning," Johnson said. Scott Buechler, New Mexico production manager for ExxonMobil, told students at the assembly that he got a STEM education, which led him to travel the world working for the oil and gas industry. Buechler also believes STEM is important because he wants to see his children "get those kinds opportunities you're going to get." In an interview, Buechler said he hopes the STEM Center "inspires kids and gives them opportunities they otherwise wouldn't have" to be "the next generation of STEM professionals." "Of which we can't get enough of to meet society's needs long-term," Buechler said. "What better place to start than the communities we operate in?" A Maryland couple wants answers after their 7-year-old son was found hanging on the door of a bathroom at an elementary school. The mother shared a cropped photo of the child in a hospital bed, along with the harrowing account of what happened at C. Paul Barnhart Elementary in Waldorf, in a now-viral social media post on Saturday (Nov. 16). Trending Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman said that on Friday (Nov. 15), her son experienced something no child should have never in life experience. My child who is a 2nd grader, was hung in the boys bathroom by a 4th grader. I received the most traumatizing phone call from the school stating that my child was being rushed to [a] childrens hospital. When the student was located by the principal, he was reportedly foaming at the mouth and unconscious. This is the most heartbreaking [and] traumatizing situation my family has ever been in. Everything about this is unacceptable. Nothing about this is ok BULLYING is never ok. Im feeling anger [and] seeing red. In a letter sent to parents, Charles County Public Schools district officials described the incident as horseplaying in a school bathroom when one students jacket got caught on a stall door hook. They allege that an involved peer was unable to assist the boy and sought help from administrators. However, the boys parents believe there is more to the story. Both chose not to be identified when they spoke with WUSA 9 about the ordeal. They said that their young son has bruises around his neck from being choked and marks under his eyes. Hospital records indicate that he suffered a contusion on his neck caused by blunt force trauma. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes traumatized. Its gonna take time. This is not something hes going to just get over overnight, his mother said. My son did tell me that when they were in the bathroom, he said the little boy told him Im going to show you how I did people back in the day, thats why I feel like its bullying. Its [no] telling how many other kids this has happened to. The mother hopes that the incident will prompt school officials to implement policy changes that would prevent something of this nature from happening again. [We're] sending our kids to school every day thinking that they are safe, the boys father said. At this time, they have no plans to send their child back to the school. You Might Also Like Massachusetts lawmakers are being asked to reject Boston Mayor Wus commercial tax increase. The Massachusetts Legislatures Joint Committee on Revenue will hold a hearing at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday on Bostons tax classification legislation. The tax bill would grant the Mayors office the power to temporarily shift the division of commercial and residential property taxes in response to projected economic upheaval. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Small Property Owners Association (SPOA) will be among those who will provide testimony asking lawmakers to reject the tax increase. Instead of trimming her budget for efficiency, Mayor Wu wants to impose a tax increase on Boston property owners when they can least afford it, especially owners in the commercial sector who are already struggling with empty buildings, SPOA said in a statement. The mayors tax hike is aimed at addressing a commercial revenue shortfall in the citys annual budget, which is driven by changing post-pandemic work patterns that have led to plummeting property values and a record number of vacant office buildings. The mayor is attempting to circumvent the guardrails established by Proposition 2 to give Boston a special deal unavailable to any other city or town in Massachusetts. By shifting the tax burden to commercial taxpayers beyond limits defined by Proposition 2 , Mayor Wu will start an inevitable rush to the legislature by other communities asking for the same special deal, SPOA said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SPOA also says Mayor Wus tax increase is contradictory to the intent of the Economic Development Bill, which is intended to make Massachusetts more attractive for businesses. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Nov. 16WILKES-BARRE Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh this week held a roundtable discussion to inform development of the Shapiro Administration's Maternal Health Strategic Plan. The event also promoted the maternal health strategic plan survey, which aims to collect community input primarily focused on woman's lived experiences during pregnancy and the postpartum period while receiving maternal health care in Pennsylvania. "Pregnancy, childbirth, and welcoming a new baby are exciting but often stressful times for parents, Arkoosh said. "Tragically, for too many women and Black women especially having a child can be life-threatening if they cannot receive high-quality, accessible, and equitable care during and after their pregnancy. We must do more to address quality of life issues for women and families in Pennsylvania." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since taking office, Gov. Josh Shapiro has prioritized addressing maternal health disparities in access to quality health care and secured a $2.6 million increase in the 2024-25 budget for maternal mortality prevention, managed through the Department of Health. In addition, DHS is currently working with the federal government to expand services available to support pregnant women covered by Medicaid. Recently, the Shapiro Administration also launched an online survey to learn more about what women experience and what needs they have before, during, and after a pregnancy, or when receiving maternal health care such as check-ups, preventive services, parenting supports, and other perinatal care. The survey will help DHS inform and expand the planned strategies to improve maternal health outcomes across the state. Pennsylvanians are encouraged to take the survey before the November29, 2024, deadline. The survey is open to anyone who wishes to share their own experiences surrounding maternal health care. The plan and survey will be pushed out to maternal health leaders across Pennsylvania through the departments of Health (DOH), Human Services (DHS), Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP), and Insurance (PID), as well as the Governor's Advisory Commission on Women and Pennsylvania's General Assembly. Right now, all members of the Maternal Health Strategic Plan are tasked with sharing the survey across Pennsylvania online, or in-person though maternal health events and community outreach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When completed, the maternal health strategic plan will include priorities centering on equity and diversity, with a focus on increasing access to high-quality care, expanding and diversifying the maternal health care workforce, and addressing behavioral health and substance use disorder services and supports. Rep. Meuser co-sponsors legislation to hold FEMA accountable U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, R-Dallas, this week co-sponsored the Modern Employment Reform, Improvement, and Transformation (MERIT) Act. This legislation takes steps to restore accountability to the civil service system, which has failed to hold federal employees to a responsible high standard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The MERIT Act was introduced in response to reports of misconduct by federal employees and the existing lengthy process to discipline them. Most recently, a FEMA supervisor in Florida was caught instructing workers to withhold aid from residents displaying Trump campaign sign and flags in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. This legislation establishes a streamlined dismissal process for federal agencies to address poor performers and misconduct. The current system is overly time-consuming, and the MERIT Act allows agencies to remove federal employees for misconduct and poor performance rather than merely demoting them. "Federal employees who fail to take their responsibility to the American people seriously must be held accountable," Meuser said. "The FEMA supervisor in Florida who neglected hurricane victims based solely on political affiliation is just one example of a larger pattern of misconduct. For too long, abuses within the federal workforce have gone unchecked due to a system that takes over a year to remove bad actors. Under the Trump administration's new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), we will work to shrink bureaucracy and implement critical reforms to streamline agency processes. I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense legislation to restore transparency, accountability, and efficiency in our federal agencies." The MERIT Act will be referred to the Oversight and Accountability Committee for further consideration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lt. Gov. Davis highlights funding to support local law enforcement Lt. Gov. Austin Davis this week announced that the Shapiro-Davis Administration has provided local law enforcement agencies with $3.04 million in grants to help them attract high-quality recruits and fill 692 vacant positions across the Commonwealth. "When we first ran for office, Gov. Josh Shapiro and I promised to ensure that our police are well-staffed and well-funded, and we're delivering on that promise," said Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, who serves as chair of the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD). "In our first two state budgets, we secured funding for 800 new state trooper cadets, and we've awarded grants to 108 local police departments to help them recruit and train 692 new officers. In addition, we're taking a comprehensive approach to making our communities safer, investing more into community-based programs to reduce violence, doubling our investment in the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, creating a new statewide initiative to provide more after-school learning opportunities and safe spaces for young people, increasing funding for domestic violence services and staffing up a statewide office of gun violence prevention." The goal of the Law Enforcement Recruitment Incentives program has been to support Act 120 training and recruitment activities for law enforcement officers. (Act 120 is a mandatory training program for municipal police officers in Pennsylvania.) Eligible law enforcement agencies could request up to $7,000 per new officer to support costs associated with the training or apply for up to $5,000 per new officer to support stipends, signing bonuses or marketing efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to funding for local law enforcement agencies, the Shapiro-Davis Administration has secured funding to hire 800 new state troopers for the Pennsylvania State Police. In total, the Administration has provided the funding to help recruit and train nearly 1,500 law enforcement officers. PCCD report aimed at enhancing protections for domestic violence victims The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency's (PCCD) Offices of Gun Violence Prevention and Victims' Services this week announced it has collaborated with the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence (PCADV) to host the second stakeholder listening session for PCCD's Office of Gun Violence Prevention. Aimed to guide the work of the Office, the convening brought together domestic violence advocates, allies, and law enforcement professionals to discuss the intersecting trends of gun violence and domestic violence, as well as policy, programming, and resource needs to strengthen support services for survivors and their loved ones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2023, homicides decreased by 16% across Pennsylvania greater than the national average. While this is welcomed progress, according to PCADV, during the same time period, gun-related domestic violence homicides increased by 14% statewide, reaching a total of 119 domestic violence-related homicides. A significant majority of domestic violence homicides involve firearms, and last year, 77% of domestic violence homicides were gun-related up 10% from 2022. "Addressing the deadly intersections of gun violence and domestic violence is critical to making our communities safer," said Samantha Koch, Interim Director of PCCD's Office of Gun Violence Prevention. "This gathering signifies an important step by the Shapiro-Davis Administration to provide a platform for survivors, advocates, and community members to share their experiences and insights and shape strategies to protect and support survivors and prevent future tragedies." Key topics of discussion from the listening session included local trends, needs and challenges, policies, programs, and resources that are working, and implementation of recently enacted protections through Act 79 of 2018 to increase victim/survivor safety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Takeaways from the listening tour will drive the work of the Office of Gun Violence Prevention as well as inform Pennsylvania's federal FY 2024 Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program (SCIP) Funding Plan. Community stakeholders are encouraged to complete PCCD's Stakeholder Feedback Survey to share their thoughts related to ideas about policies, programs, and how funding should be used to help reduce gun violence in Pennsylvania. In 2018, Pennsylvania enacted Act 79, landmark bipartisan legislation establishing new weapons relinquishment requirements for individuals subject to final PFA orders and misdemeanor domestic violence convictions. Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) will be under the microscope when it comes to President-elect Trumps most contentious Cabinet nominees, with senators watching closely to see if he will oppose confirming former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) as attorney general or former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence. McConnell, who clashed with Trump and is leaving his leadership position in the new Congress, will turn 83 in February and is up for reelection in 2026. Crossing Trump could make his road to another term more difficult, but its also far from clear that he would seek another six years in the Senate. The longest-serving Senate GOP leader in history, McConnell has always been seen as a team player, but many think he could forge his own path on certain nominees. And if he isnt running for reelection, he has little to lose in voting his conscious. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hell feel a bit liberated, I think. But hes a very measured man. Hes very controlled. Very focused. What matters in this Congress mattered to him before, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) said. I think his influence is real, and his voice will matter. When he speaks, people will listen, Graham added. Trump over the past week has rolled out a number of Cabinet nominations that have caught some Senate Republicans off-kilter. Along with Gaetz and Gabbard, Trump has picked Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a skeptic of vaccines, to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, and Fox News host Pete Hegseth to help the Pentagon. Gaetz angered a number of Republicans, including McConnell, by leading the effort to unseat former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.). He has also been under various legal and ethical clouds related to allegations of sexual misconduct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabbard, a longtime Democrat who left the party in 2022 and became a Republican this year, has raised eyebrows with past remarks that seemed to echo the talking points of Russian state media on the Ukraine war. McConnell is not the only GOP senator whose support or opposition could be key. People will also be watching closely to see how Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Susan Collins (R-Maine) vote on various nominees. But because of McConnells history leading his conference through myriad legislative battles and political storms, how he handles the most contentious of Trumps picks will be watched closely. And could lead others to follow. Hes not just another senator now. He has earned his influence for sure. I dont know that he wants to play that role, but if he does, he could do it better than anyone, Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) said when asked about the possibility of McConnell giving cover to more center-right members who may not be enthralled with some of Trumps selections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He knows our process, and he knows the politics of it very, very well, Cramer continued. Just by virtue of his influence which is earned by experience, not by title he will always have a bit of a sage role. Thats for sure. Both Graham and Cramer likened his potential role in the 119th Congress to that of former Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), whom McConnell praised recently for how she has transitioned out of leadership. She departed as Democratic leader two years ago. I think Pelosi has done a pretty good job as a former Speaker, still being able to express herself and have an audience, McConnell said in late October. Im hopeful people will still care what I think. The Kentucky Republican has stayed largely mum on the emerging list of Cabinet and other nominations, saying only that the upper chamber must do its due diligence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each of these nominees needs to come before the Senate and go through the process and be vetted, McConnell said on Wednesday while being honored at the American Enterprise Institutes annual gala. While hes kept quiet on that front, McConnell has indicated he plans to spend his final two years working on and speaking up about foreign policy and defense. He said the day after the election that he considers now the most dangerous time since right before World War II. That will dovetail right into the consideration of Gabbard to lead the nations intelligence community, as the two hold diametric views on many issues on the world stage, including on Ukraine. McConnell is perhaps the GOPs foremost leading voice in support of Kyiv a stark contrast to Gabbard, who has echoed Russian talking points since the outset of the war that is set to hit the three-year mark in February. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, McConnell has long been considered by members to be mindful of the conference at large, including the presence of Thune one of his proteges who served the past six years as his deputy in leadership. Any decision he makes will likely be with him in mind, as he likely will not want to make life more complicated for the new head of the Senate GOP, especially considering the influence he continues to carry. Mitch has always been able to carve his own way, said Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), a top ally of the new leader. I dont know which direction hell go, but hell be working with the conference. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Chief Minister paid floral tributes to the statue of the country's first Home Minister Sardar Patel on the hospital premises. He also offered condolences to the late trustee of the hospital, Shri Dharamshibhai Patel. In a post on X, Chief Minister shared the pictures of his visit and wrote, "RMS Hospital managed by the Sardar Patel Health Foundation in Dhandhuka. This hospital, equipped with modern facilities, is providing excellent services to the residents of 150 nearby villages along the Bhavnagar-Ahmedabad National Highway, travelers passing through the highway, and needy patients." "On this occasion, paid tribute to the late Shri Dharamshibhai Patel, a trustee of the hospital, and held a meeting with the trustees to understand the hospital's operations," the post further reads. In addition, the Chief Minister held a meeting with the trustees of RMS Hospital and received detailed information about the hospital. The event was attended by Member of Parliament Chandubhai Shihora, former Ministers Bhupendrasinh Chudasama and Jitubhai Vaghani, MLA Kalubhai Dabhi, former MLA Bharat Pandya, RMS Hospital Chairman Odhavjibhai Monpara, Minister Bhimjibhai Sutariya, Vice Chairman Harishbhai Mordiya, Dr. Purohit, and other hospital trustees, a release said. (ANI) Many consider the pro-life movement in the US to be characterised by religious types, typically found clutching rosaries outside abortion clinics. But a lesser-known advocacy group is using satire to call out what it deems disingenuous debate around abortion and what the Left euphemistically calls reproductive freedom. Its military veterans, especially combat veterans, and theyre feeling pretty grumpy about what is going on. One example is Joel Berry, a United States Marine Corps (USMC) veteran and managing editor of The Babylon Bee, a popular conservative Christian website that publishes satirical articles on topics including religion, politics, current events and public figures. It is particularly withering in its coverage of abortion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I would wager Berry did not vote for Kamala Harris, who made abortion central to her self-consciously inspiring and joyful campaign. Another veteran, with over 70,000 followers on the same social media platform, goes by the name of @HarmfulOpinion and describes himself as: Respiratory Care Practitioner. Board certified adult critical care specialist. Father. Husband. A salty combat veteran and a very okay dude. In a recent post following the US election, he commented on Harriss loss, saying: I guess killing babies in the womb wasnt the political platform they thought it was. This particular salty combat veteran also has a strong track record of pushing back against modern liberal orthodoxy and its attendant ideologies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This highlights another reason why veterans are wading in. Its well established many veterans struggle to assimilate back into civilian society. Its estimated about 22 veterans commit suicide every day in the US. Todays veterans often served in both Iraq and Afghanistan, thereby earning, as an ex-British Army friend reminds me, the dubious honour of losing two wars. In addition to bearing that, they returned to a civilian realm that began to take aim at toxic masculinity, alongside embracing the ideological garbage of the so-called culture wars. Blue and pink-haired women screaming obscenities about the vital need to terminate pregnancies represent a very different sort of person and creed from those that veterans encountered in the military. Progressive identity politics was turbo charged by the Biden-Harris administration. As a result, according to a Pew Research Center survey in September, about 61 per cent of registered voters who served in the US military or military reserves said they supported Donald Trump, while 37 per cent backed Harris. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement None of this is surprising if you think about it: many of these guys were involved with the killing of women and children in Iraq and Afghanistan, usually as collateral damage, as I experienced during my tour in Afghanistan. Recently, there has been growing research around so-called moral injury, which shares some of PTSDs symptoms while being distinctive from it in other ways. In traumatic or unusually stressful circumstances, people may perpetrate, fail to prevent, or witness events that contradict deeply held moral beliefs and expectations, explains the US Department of Veterans Affairs. An apt example is collateral damage, the remnants of which the Afghans helpfully collected and brought by cart to the forward operating base to remind us of reality, something that reproductive freedom warriors often appear out of touch with. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US Department of Veterans Affairs continues: Moral injury is the distressing psychological, behavioural, social and sometimes spiritual aftermath of exposure to such events. A moral injury can occur in response to acting or witnessing behaviours that go against an individuals values and moral beliefs. Due to its spiritual dimension, moral injury is often referred to as an injury to the soul. Many pro-life campaigners argue that some women who have an abortion afterwards suffer something akin to the type of moral injury experienced by too many veterans. Its not hard to see why, but even with the parallels, its not an easy or indeed seemingly permissible subject to discuss. Leaving aside the Is this what we fought and died for? cliche, what ultimately blows many veterans away, as with all progressive ideological cant, is being told what to think on such an important issue that, if it is clear cut, is as clearly cut for many veterans in a very different way to that pushed by the mainstream. The result is that, as with situations we found ourselves in during Iraq and Afghanistan, when we are expected to go against what our hearts and moral compass tells us to be true, we get a little salty. James Jeffrey is a writer, assistant online editor for the Catholic Herald and a Camino guide Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. More than two months after being appointed by Meadville City Council, Joe Tompkins joined the Meadville Housing Authority board at its monthly meeting Wednesday in the Holland Towers community room. Tompkins was present for the boards meetings in each of the past two months, but he attended as an audience member at the request of Authority officials. This week, Tompkins was at the table and was an active participant, asking numerous questions throughout the course of the meeting. The outcome was greeted as a positive resolution by City Council members Autumn Vogel and Gretchen Myers, who were in the audience for the meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were glad to see Mr. Tompkins seated today, Vogel said, reading from a letter to the board during a public comment period at the beginning of the meeting. It just reaffirms the appointment that we made of Mr. Tompkins several months ago and encourages the Housing Authority to take any steps that they can to make that appointment a long-lasting one. The reason for the delay was a conflict of interest involving Tompkins that authority attorney Christopher Ferry had hoped to resolve prior to Tompkins taking his seat. Citing the potential for unintended consequences with regard to the funding the authority receives from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Ferry convinced Tompkins to delay assuming his role as a board member. In an email Friday, Ferry explained that the conflict arose because the authority has a contract with Meadville nonprofit Common Roots for three housing choice vouchers, also known as Section 8 vouchers. Tompkins wife, Julie Wilson, is the executive director of housing and community development for Common Roots. HUD officials followed up with Tompkins and determined that the situation does constitute a conflict, according to Ferry. While Tompkins joined the board this week, the resolution to the conflict has not yet been determined. Instead, HUD directed the Housing Authority to propose a course of action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Joe seated himself on the board at the meeting on the (Wednesday), Ferry said. So, the next step is to put together a proposed resolution of the conflict to submit to HUD for review and hopefully approval. Among updates on the authoritys various housing complexes, Executive Director Vanessa Rockovich told board members that the $6.2 million renovation of half of the 132 units at Holland Towers was progressing but that a few hiccups had complicated the work. Because weve had so many unforeseen things occur electrical, plumbing were hoping once we get through these 30 units, when we do the other 35 units, that weve got all the hiccups and bugs worked out, Rockovich said. It seems like things are starting to move a little bit more. The 365-day timeline that was part of the project contracts was thrown off by about three months largely due to the discovery that asbestos abatement was needed, according to Rockovich. In response to questioning from Tompkins, she estimated that the work would be completed next fall or winter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sixteen units in Holland Towers and 13 at William Gill Commons are being treated for active bedbug or cockroach infestations, according to the monthly extermination report. With all 100 Gill units up for inspection last month, Rockovich said there had been concern that more apartments would be found to have insect issues. Thats not bad, she told the board. We were pleased that the number came in that low. Regarding the Holland Towers infestations, Assistant Maintenance Inspector Kyle Lynch said the steady number of units being treated has typically involved reoccurring infestations in the same units. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyll get rid of them for a little bit and they get them back again, Lynch said. We dont understand how or why, but thats probably a few of them and then some people just congregating with people who have them. The intractable nature of the bedbug problem, which has waxed and waned for more than three years without ever disappearing entirely, is the result of a gap in social services, authority officials said in response to questions from Tompkins. The authority can react to the infestations as they occur, but cant provide the social services often needed by tenants experiencing repeated infestations. At the same time, the social services agencies that might be able to help are often understaffed and lack the resources to adequately address the problems. Rockovich described a Catch-22 situation that has arisen numerous times, particularly when hoarding tendencies contribute to an infestation. Some of the tenants here need a lot more help than theyre getting, and we just have tried anything and everything, she said, referring to social service agencies. Its just so ongoing, and its so frustrating because theyll say, Well, our case workers cant go in because they have bedbugs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How are we going to get rid of the bedbugs, Rockovich continued, if caseworkers dont go in and help them get ready? Similar questions are asked during the eviction proceedings that can result from ongoing problems with tenants, according to Ferry, and there tend to be few remaining options by the time a case is being litigated. Its difficult, theres no question about it, he said. I dont know that we can blame anybody in particular. I just think that weve just got a gap. It would be great if we could figure out a way to fill it. Nov. 16Robin Martin doesn't remember having any philosophical discussions with her father about what it meant to be an independent newspaper owner but she does remember him banging his head on the dining room table a couple of times. "Yes, literally," said Martin, who in 2001 took over ownership of the Santa Fe New Mexican from her late father, Robert Moody McKinney. Once, Martin said, was when then-Gov. Bruce King's wife was described in a cutline as his "first lay" rather than "first lady." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another time, the head-banging was prompted by an "r" where it didn't belong, transforming "Las Vegas" into "Las Vergas," an obscenity in Spanish. "He was doing it to be dramatic," Martin said, laughing. The gesture may have been theatrical, but it demonstrated how invested he was in the paper's quality and success. And while they never had a formal discussion about leading the family business, Martin said she emulated her father's approach when she became owner of The New Mexican and The Taos News. "With a locally owned paper, the owner lives in the community and knows what issues are important for the community to flourish," Martin said. "With a corporate or hedge fund ownership, the point of owning a newspaper is to make money. ... It's completely different." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That dynamic is part of what can make independently owned newspapers like The New Mexican, which is celebrating its 175th anniversary this month such strong community assets. It's also what makes owning a newspaper a tough gig. Corporate acquisitions The New Mexican briefly went corporate during an economic squeeze; McKinney, who first bought the newspaper in 1948, sold it to Gannett in 1976. But he was unhappy with the way Gannett ran the paper and sued the chain for breach of contract, prevailing and winning the paper back after a 13-week trial. The financial burdens only got tougher with the advent of the internet, the decline of print advertising revenue and the difficulty convincing digital readers to pay for subscriptions. Across the country, those trends have helped drive thousands of newspapers out of business. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 3,200 print newspapers have vanished since 2005, Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism reported last month. Earlier this fall, for example, five newspapers in eastern Colorado announced they would either close or halt print publication in the span of just a few days, according to The Colorado Sun. For years, large chains were active in gobbling up newspapers for sale, hollowing out the ranks of the country's independent newspaper owners. Martin said there was a period when she was getting two or three inquiries every week about selling The New Mexican, a pace that dropped off after the 2008 recession. On a national scale, those acquisitions have slowed recently, according to the Medill report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "While large chains continue to control the largest share of newspapers, the past three years have been marked by increased activity from medium-size and small owners," the report said. New Mexico investors That newer trend has been accentuated in New Mexico, where local ownership is the rule rather than the exception, and two fairly new local organizations, El Rito Media LLC and Ctrl+P Publishing Group have been investing in New Mexico publications. El Rito Media, an investment group headed by longtime oilman and former state Republican Party chair Harvey E. Yates Jr., started out by acquiring the Rio Grande Sun in Espanola two years ago, then picked up the Artesia Daily Press last year. Earlier this year, the company scooped up the Alamogordo Daily News, Carlsbad-Current Argus and Ruidoso News from newspaper giant Gannett. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those acquisitions, and the sale this year of the Farmington Daily Times to Colorado-based Ballantine Communications Inc. which shut it down take Gannett's New Mexico holdings down to just a single outlet: the Las Cruces Sun-News. Rich Connor, CEO of El Rito Media and the editor/publisher of all five publications, said since taking over the former Gannett newspapers in Southern New Mexico, he's been seeing 100 or more new subscriptions every week in Alamogordo, Carlsbad and Ruidoso combined. He said under Gannett, the papers each carried far less local news than they do now. "These papers are loaded now in the last four months from front page to the back," Conner said. "We're getting an incredible reaction from readers unlike anything I've ever seen." Meanwhile, Ctrl+P Publishing Group, led by former Albuquerque City Councilor Pat Davis, is creating online-only news opportunities. He started New Mexico Political Report in 2015 and City Desk earlier this year, as well as Albuquerque-based alt-weekly The Paper in 2020 in the wake of the closure of the Weekly Alibi. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His company also has picked up small publications in Corrales, Sandoval County and the East Mountains in recent years, as well as the Santa Fe Reporter just this summer. Clara Garcia, the New Mexico Press Association's board president, says she finds the wave of acquisitions by both groups heartening. "It's nice to know that we have local investors in New Mexico who are willing and wanting to invest in local journalism," said Garcia, who is also the editor/publisher of the Valencia County News-Bulletin, which is owned by the same local company as the Albuquerque Journal. "I think that's a big positive for our industry." That's all in addition to a number of nonprofit, online-only organizations operating in the state, including Searchlight New Mexico, New Mexico In Depth and Source New Mexico, which Garcia said offer a great deal of value for New Mexicans by tackling in-depth reporting that smaller publications don't always have the resources to carry out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Those are great resources, and I think they help the whole state," Garcia said. Challenges for local owners That's not to say independent owners don't face major headwinds. William P. Lang, owner and publisher of the Albuquerque Journal, said while he still views the publication as a "value-added local paper," the erosion of print advertising has been a blow. "So much advertising has gone on the internet," said Lang, who also owns papers in Rio Rancho, Belen and Socorro. "So we have to have internet products for our clients, and it is a challenge to keep local advertising in our paper." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lang said the paper, whose main customers tend to be over 50, also needs to become more relevant to a wider audience. "They're still good, loyal customers with us," Lang said. "But ... our real challenge is to kind of move toward getting more younger people." Big profits may not be the end-game for Martin, but she, too, said her greatest challenge is making enough money from advertising, distribution and printing to support the newsroom. For Connor, staffing is the first and greatest hurdle. "The biggest challenge we face is A) finding good people to hire, and B) finding almost anybody," Connor said, adding that over his nearly six-decade news career he's embraced hiring people with high potential but no experience and training them up into journalists. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Mexico's news landscape still has plenty of gaps. Newsrooms tend to be smaller than even just a few years ago and according to the Medill study, the state has five counties without a single local news source and 16 counties with only one. Garcia said partnerships with universities and the New Mexico Local News Fund have helped with those challenges across the board, but she hopes independent owners continue to bear up under the burdens. "I think it is a lot better to have local owners, just because they understand ... New Mexico the landscape, the culture, the community," she said. "They know our needs." ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) The New Mexico cannabis industry could soon experience a major shift in how the state enforces cannabis laws. It comes as lawmakers discussed a bill expected to be introduced to the legislature this upcoming session. There is a thriving underground market of cannabis sales here in New Mexico, said New Mexico Senator Katy Duhigg. Its that underground market that lawmakers are trying to disrupt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lot of the tools that we are trying to give Regulation & Licensing to appropriately regulate cannabis, its really hard for them to actually use those tools if they do not have the authority to hold things in place, Sen. Duhigg explained. A bill expected to be introduced to legislators could create a Compliance Bureau team for the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department (NMRLD). If approved, members of that team would be certified law enforcement called compliance inspectors with the authority to conduct lawful warrantless searches and seizures of illegal cannabis products and arrest anyone unlawfully trafficking cannabis. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Something that would cost $5 from a legitimate shop can cost pennies from one of these other folks because theyre getting it so cheap, Sen. Duhigg said. According to the proposed bill, compliance inspectors would be responsible for identifying, marking, and explaining why a product is illegal during inspections. Violations could include having more cannabis plants than allowed, possessing unregulated products from other states, or misbranded items. Licensees could face a fourth-degree felony if any items marked by inspectors are removed, hidden, or destroyed. Lawmakers argue its these illegal operations that make it difficult for local shops to follow the law. That really puts everyone who is following the law and following the rules at a severe competitive disadvantage, Sen. Duhigg said. Businesses would have 10 business days to request a hearing following the seizure of any products. A district court would then decide if the product is lawful to sell. If its not, the Cannabis Control Division (CCD) would have the power to destroy the items at the owners expense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This approach of giving CCD these police powers, is a way to make sure we are appropriately enforcing our laws around cannabis without taking our other law enforcement away from the really important work they are doing, added Sen. Duhigg. If approved, $325,000 from the states general fund would be used to create the team. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. Nov. 17SANTA FE When Donald Trump takes office again in January, his agenda could be met with a healthy dose of resistance in New Mexico. That's because Democrats still hold all statewide elected offices and some are readying to push back against the president-elect. But Trump's administration could have the final say on proposed land swaps, oil drilling on federal lands, natural disaster relief and other key policy issues affecting New Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House Speaker Javier Martinez, D-Albuquerque, said Democrats will be quick to act on behalf of women seeking reproductive health care, immigrants and other groups if the Trump administration rolls back existing protections. "We will step up, and we will protect our people," Martinez told the Journal. But he also said the GOP president-elect would be wise to follow New Mexico's lead by expanding a federal child care tax credit and making higher education more affordable. "If the Trump administration wants to come to New Mexico and learn from what we've done, they are welcome to come," Martinez said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, State Land Commissioner Stephanie Garcia Richard said she's concerned the Trump administration could scuttle plans for a land exchange in southern New Mexico. The proposed land swap, which has already been initiated, involves the state receiving about 76,000 acres of federal land on the west side of Las Cruces and around the Santa Teresa port of entry. In exchange, the state would transfer to the federal Bureau of Land Management roughly 84,000 acres now included within the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument near Las Cruces. That would prevent the land in question from being developed or leased by a future land commissioner. "We're really urging this new administration not to stand in the way," Garcia Richard told the Journal. "It would be a shame to see it stymied." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The land the state would acquire via the swap could be leased for manufacturing, solar energy and other types of economic development, according to the State Land Office. Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris in this month's general election, while Republicans won control of the U.S. Senate and retained a slim majority in the U.S. House of Representatives. That "trifecta" could give the Trump administration the green light to enact its agenda on a federal level, with states having only a limited ability to defy federal mandates. While some elected officials have taken a wait-and-see approach to Trump's second term, Garcia Richard said New Mexico should expect the once-and-future president to try to carry out his campaign pledges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I don't think it's speculative, because we've been through this before," she said, referring to Trump's first term as president from 2017 through 2020. How the economy may be impactedTrump held a campaign rally in Albuquerque the week before Election Day, during which he claimed a Democratic victory would eliminate more than 90,000 oil and natural gas industry jobs in New Mexico. "If Kamala is elected, New Mexico's economy will be reduced to rubble," Trump said. While New Mexico oil production increased by about 120% over the four years Trump was previously president, it increased by nearly 80% over Democratic President Joe Biden's first three years in office eclipsing 683 million barrels of oil last year and is on track to grow even more this year, according to legislative data. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a result, state revenue has surged to record-high levels over the last several years and is projected to surpass $13 billion for the current budget year more than double the amount from eight years ago. Senate Minority Whip Pat Woods, R-Broadview, said Trump's administration could bolster oil and natural gas production to even higher levels, in part by relaxing regulations in order to build new pipelines. "In my view, the economy under Trump has the opportunity to blossom with a little less regulation," Woods said. But he said he expects such regulations will not be adopted overnight, adding that solar and wind energy will likely remain a part of the state's energy mix. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I think that process will keep going," Woods told the Journal. "I think there will still be a demand for renewable energy." Woods also said he does not expect to see a loss of federal funds for New Mexico's military bases and national laboratories, though the conservative policy playbook Project 2025 calls for the labs to refocus on national security issues not on climate change and renewable technologies. U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., disputed Woods' assertion, saying funding for the "very programs that have positioned New Mexico as a leader in defense, science and innovation" could be at risk. Federal funding made up about 35.7% of New Mexico's total revenue in 2022, according to data from the Pew Charitable Trusts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers look to codify protections State lawmakers have already taken some steps to enshrine federal laws in state statute, effectively shielding the state from any federal policy changes. In 2019, for instance, the Democratic-controlled Legislature approved measures codifying parts of the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, in state law. The law, which was signed by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, specifically bars health insurers from denying coverage based on pre-existing conditions. Lujan Grisham signaled Friday her administration will work with lawmakers to pass similar protections during the upcoming 60-day legislative session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats maintained a comfortable majority in both legislative chambers in this month's general election, though Republicans picked up one seat in both the House and Senate, based on unofficial results. "I do believe we will have a number of legislative proposals that will codify the protections we have," the two-term Democratic governor said in an interview. That could include the creation of a state health care affordability fund, in case the federal government seeks to trim funding levels for Medicaid or other programs, she said. She also said it is a "real possibility" that Trump could withhold federal disaster relief funds from states like New Mexico that have opposed his agenda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We've experienced a Trump administration before and he can be punitive and reactive," the governor told the Journal. "I also know when he says something extreme, it could happen." But Lujan Grisham said she does not believe the state needs to strengthen its abortion laws, after lawmakers in 2021 repealed a long-dormant state abortion ban. In addition, Lujan Grisham stopped short of describing her efforts as an attempt to "Trump-proof" the state, a phrase that has been used to describe the actions of other Democratic governors, including California Gov. Gavin Newson. "When you use terminology like that, it sounds like you're politicizing," the governor said. "It's part of the job I'm elected to do irrespective of who the president is." She also said she has been approached by fellow Democratic Govs. JB Pritzker of Illinois and Jared Polis of Colorado about joining their nascent group called Governors Safeguarding Democracy. However, Lujan Grisham said she has not yet decided whether to join the group, or other similar organizations that are in the works after Trump's election victory. Courts could end up as key battlegrounds The ability of states like New Mexico to enact policies that go further or possibly clash with federal mandates could end up being decided by the courts. That could put some Democratic officials in the position of advocating for states' rights, a position often trumpeted by Republicans. Attorney General Raul Torrez indicated he won't hesitate to take action if he believes New Mexicans' constitutional rights are being violated. "Despite our political differences, all Americans believe in building a safer, stronger, more prosperous nation and we expect our president to work toward those goals while upholding our shared faith in the rule of law and our commitment to basic human decency," Torrez said. "New Mexicans should know that any assault on those principles will be met with fierce resistance by my office, and I will not hesitate to stand and fight for the freedom and dignity to which we are all entitled," he added. With battles looking likely on the horizon, the question appears to be when not if the first challenges are filed. Policies criminalizing the possession of drug paraphernalia ostracize people who use drugs and create unsafe conditions, increasing drug-use related harms like disease transmission and overdose. Syringe services programs are community-based programs that provide services such as counseling, medication treatment, sterile drug use supplies, disease testing and many other resources. The evidence base for such programs is strong; they have long been known to decrease viral disease transmission and drug overdose and increase treatment engagement. When the operations of syringe programs are restricted by laws and stigma, drug users suffer. Indeed, in West Virginia, outbreaks of HIV in 2018-2019 and 2020 were associated with policies placing heavy restrictions on syringe service programs, resulting in the closure of nearly half the states programs. Michigan House Bills 5178 and 5179 modify the current public health code to redefine drug paraphernalia and ensure that people who engage in services offered by syringe programs cannot face legal repercussions for trying to stay safe. HB 5178 and HB 5179 aim to decriminalize the possession of syringes or drug testing supplies obtained from a syringe program or similar government sanctioned programs. These bills, however, do not explicitly decriminalize other drug paraphernalia used to test or inject drugs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To better protect drug users from disease transmission and overdose, future iterations of HB 5178 and 5179 should use clear and direct language to decriminalize the distribution and use of not only sterile syringes, but also other tools for safer use, such as clean pipes, cookers, cottons, mouthpieces, weight scales, drug testing technologies and more. We cannot expect people to seek treatment for drug use while simultaneously punishing them for accessing the resources available to them. Lone drug users cannot rely on social support systems that do not exist, drug users cannot rely solely on their dealers to ensure the ever-changing drug supply is safe and people who die of drug overdose cannot get a second chance at accessing treatment. Danielle Lenz Detroit The Michigan State Capitol sits in Lansing on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023. Maternal mortality and stillbirth rates among Black women in U.S. are too high The maternal mortality and stillbirth rates among African American women in the U.S. are alarmingly high, with African American mothers facing a three to four times higher risk than their white counterparts. This disparity is both unacceptable and preventable. Key factors include limited access to quality prenatal care, implicit bias in healthcare, and socioeconomic challenges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Maternal and Child Health Stillbirth Prevention Act of 2024 (H.R. 4581) is a crucial step forward, providing funding for targeted, evidence-based initiatives and community support programs. This law grants African American women greater access to resources, education, and culturally competent care vital for healthier pregnancies. This law holds particular significance for states like Michigan, where African American women experience disproportionately high maternal mortality rates, highlighting severe racial health disparities. By addressing systemic inequities, this act marks an essential move toward reducing racial health disparities and improving maternal health outcomes in Michigan. Dominique Pace Oak Park Opinion: Lawmakers, don't water down minimum wage increase, paid sick time Social work licensing should be affordable Social work licensure should be affordable, easily accessible and timely. According to the National Association of Social Workers, there are several racial and age disparities in this exam. Those who are in these groups have surpassed the renewal limits and are forced to exit the field. Social workers are consistently being asked to pay for classes, tutors and practice exams out of pocket. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state of Michigan is looking at passing House Bills 5184 and 5185. These bills look at removing the examination portion required to become a social worker, as well as increase the number of licensed social workers in order to bridge the gap between the shortage of social workers. Also, the House bills are looking at reducing any problematic barriers and would keep Michigan in line with other state licensures processes. Allison Weber Brownstown, Michigan I urge Michigan senators to support vaccination A court awarded $12 million to a former Blue Cross Blue Shield employee who was fired for refusing to get a COVID-19 vaccine. While vaccine refusers receive millions in compensation, 1.2% of all deaths in the U.S. this past week were attributed to COVID. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vaccines are extremely cost-saving and life-saving interventions. Gavi, the global vaccine alliance, has helped vaccinate over 1 billion children and prevented over 17 million child deaths since 2000. U.S. leadership on basic global health inspires other nations to do more for global access to life-saving vaccines. Currently Senate Res. 684 is on the floor to support Gavi. Ask U.S. Sens. Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters to co-sponsor this resolution to encourage the U.S. and other nations to do their part at the upcoming Gavi pledging conference. Suha Iqbal Troy Nazis demonstrate outside "The Diary of Anne Frank" performance on Veteran's Day As America honors our veterans, a group of Nazi demonstrators chose to flaunt their hatred of Jewish people outside Livingston Countys American Legion post where The Diary of Anne Frank was performed. I wondered what World War II veterans of American Legion Devereaux Post 141, who had seen firsthand the aftermath of the Nazis unbridled Jew hatred, would think of these 21st Century hoodlums trampling on the very essence of what they had fought against. Paul L. Newman Merion Station, Pennsylvania This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Decriminalize drug paraphernalia, make social work affordable | Letters A 43-year-old woman, Erika R. Todd of Erie, was fatally struck by a moving car while walking along Smith Road in Bedford Township. After being hit once, Todd was struck two more times by two other vehicles late Saturday night. According to the Monroe County Sheriff's office, Todd was walking eastbound on Smith Road, near Telegraph Road, in dark clothing. While walking along the shoulder, she was struck first in a hit-and-run. Police have not identified the first vehicle's driver, and the make and model are unknown. The vehicle fled from the scene. After being hit once, Todd was in the the eastbound lane and struck again by a 65-year-old woman in a Honda Accord, and once more by a 19-year-old woman in a Nissan Sentra. Both drivers stopped and have been identified and released by police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also read: Prominent Michigan attorney Mike Hodge found dead after police search in Barry County Todd was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Monroe County Sheriff's Office has asked the public for assistance in locating the first vehicle to strike Todd. Anyone with information is asked to call 734-240-7548. Breaking News Reporter Liam Rappleye can be reached at LRappleye@freepress.com This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Erie woman Erika R. Todd fatally struck by 3 cars in Bedford Township (Bloomberg) -- Even before he landed in Rio de Janeiro for Brazils Group of 20 summit, Argentinas Javier Milei had already started raining on President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silvas big party. Most Read from Bloomberg Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Argentine diplomats have thrown a wrench into last-minute talks meant to reach consensus on the communique world leaders are set to sign Tuesday, according to multiple government officials from various G-20 nations. They even began backing off support for ideas they had previously signed off on in previous meetings, including a tax on billionaires, the people said. In the end, negotiators managed to salvage the draft communique by adding a footnote saying that Argentina doesnt agree with some of the points, four officials said, requesting anonymity because the statement isnt yet public. Still, the drama has frustrated counterparts facing the fact that Milei has little regard for multilateral institutions like the G-20, and few qualms about irking world leaders with whom he disagrees. Some diplomats have begun quipping that Milei was effectively turning the G-20 into a G-19, while arguing that his foreign policy approach has left the South American nation increasingly isolated in Rio. The irritation with Argentina is hardly limited to Brazils delegation, according to a person familiar with the situation who said that Germany, Italy, France and other nations have also complained about its approach to the discussions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But its stance poses particular problems for Lula, the leftist whose efforts to use the G-20 to showcase Brazil as a major player on the global stage are already teetering after Donald Trumps election victory shifted leaders focus to preparations for the return of the all-consuming US president-elect. The presidents of the historically-allied nations have been locked in a public battle since last year, when Lula deployed a team of campaign advisers to work for Mileis election opponent and the Argentine lumped his neighbor into a group of communists with whom he wouldnt work. Armed with competing economic visions and opposite views on climate change, social issues and the role of the government, the pair have yet to hold a bilateral meeting and even made sure to stand on opposite sides of an official photo at a G-7 meeting in Italy earlier this year. Emboldened by the early success of his radical economic agenda at home, Milei also sees himself as a leader of what he calls a new global order that runs counter to the woke agendas of leftist leaders like Lula and institutions like the UN. He has openly campaigned for right-wing opposition parties in Spain, and this year picked a conservative rally popular among supporters of Jair Bolsonaro Lulas predecessor and arch-nemesis for his first visit to Brazil. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US election result has only further fueled his cause, giving him a close ally in the worlds largest economy. Lula, by contrast, effectively endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris ahead of her defeat. Brazilian officials, in particular, see Mileis willingness to muck up talks around the communique as an effort to further cozy up to the president-elect, with some involved in the G-20 negotiations saying that the Argentine seemed to be acting as a saboteur working on Trumps behalf. Argentinas foreign ministry declined to comment. But while Milei clearly senses momentum is on his side, analysts and observers have cautioned that it carries substantial risk of leaving Argentina isolated on the world stage. Frances Emmanuel Macron planned to deliver a similar warning during a visit to Buenos Aires ahead of the G-20 that was meant to convince Milei to help preserve the international order after Trumps election win. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since taking office last December, Milei has rapidly turned his nation into a radical supporter of the US and Israel, shifting its foreign policy drastically. That shift consolidated and accelerated late last month when he fired Foreign Minister Diana Mondino, saying she had betrayed the country for voting against Cubas economic embargo at the UN. Mondino hadnt been a member of Mileis inner circle in months, but she played instrumental roles in patching up relations with Brazil Argentinas largest trading partner and Spain, which yanked its ambassador from Buenos Aires amid a dispute between Milei and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez earlier this year. She also led a successful visit to China as Argentina negotiated the renewal of a much-needed credit line from Beijing, overcoming the impact of Mileis aggressive criticism of the communist government led by Xi Jinping during his campaign. Even before she was fired, signs that Milei had begun imposing his foreign policy vision on Mondinos ministry had started to emerge. Earlier in October, Argentine negotiators suddenly refused to sign a statement on female empowerment that had the support of all other G-20 members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After her departure, Argentina rejected UN proposals defending the rights of Indigenous peoples and combating violence against women and girls. It was the only nation to vote against the resolutions. --With assistance from Ilya Arkhipov and Eric Martin. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. A volunteer group that helps support a local bird sanctuary has a message for visitors: quit messing with the owls. In a Saturday Facebook post, Friends of Roberts Bird Sanctuary specifically the Thomas Sadler Roberts Bird Sanctuary in Minneapolis' Lyndale Park, near Lake Harriet says they've learned that "some people are going off trail and harassing an owl" roosting in a tree. The group says some of the culprits even brought a ladder to get a "closer view" of the bird. "Besides the fact that Park Board rules prohibit going off trail and harassing wildlife, it's very troubling that anyone would think this behavior is OK anywhere, and especially in a bird sanctuary," the post says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "No picture is worth harassing and harming wildlife, not to mention disrupting and alarming other visitors to the Sanctuary." According to the group's website, the sanctuary is used by nearly 130 bird species, including four types of owls: the eastern screech owl, the great horned owl, the barred owl and the long-eared owl. Bring Me The News has reached out to Friends of Roberts Bird Sanctuary for comment. The sanctuary, established in 1936, is a 31-acre site managed by the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board. It was renamed in 1947 to honor Thomas Sadler Roberts, a doctor and University of Minnesota ornithology professor who is considered the father of Minnesota ornithology. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to the veteran leader of Maratha politics, Balasaheb Thackeray on his death anniversary. Calling him a visionary leader, PM Modi said that he was the "cause" of Maharashtra's development and the empowerment of the Marathi people. "I pay homage to the great Balasaheb Thackeray Ji on his Punya Tithi. He was a visionary who championed the cause of Maharashtra's development and the empowerment of Marathi people. He was a firm believer in enhancing the pride of Indian culture and ethos. His bold voice and unwavering spirit continue to inspire generations," the Prime Minister posted on X. https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1858052452173623367 Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid tribute to an "eminent politician" Balasaheb Thackeray. Praising Balasaheb Thackeray's dedication to his values, Shah said that whenever the country talks about dedication to ideology and commitment to principles, he is definitely remembered. In a social media post on X, Amit Shah wrote, "I remember and pay my tribute to Balasaheb Thackeray, an eminent politician who dedicated his entire life to Sanatan culture and national interest, on his death anniversary. Whenever the country talks about dedication to ideology and commitment to principles, Balasaheb Thackeray is definitely remembered. Balasaheb's commitment towards Sanatan culture and religion, who never compromised on ideology and political values even in adverse circumstances, is inspiring." "On the occasion of his death anniversary, we remember and pay homage to the great leader Balasaheb Thackeray ji, who dedicated his entire life to Sanatan culture and national interest. Whenever the issue of ideological dedication and principled commitment comes up in the country, Balasaheb Thackeray ji is definitely remembered. Balasaheb Thackeray's commitment to Sanatan culture and religion, even in adverse circumstances, not to compromise with ideology and political values is inspiring," the tweet added. https://x.com/AmitShah/status/1858004495545868683/photo/1 Congress MP and Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi also remembered Balasaheb Thackeray on his death anniversary and posted on X, "Remembering Balasaheb Thackeray ji on his 12th death anniversary. My thoughts are with Uddhav Thackeray ji, Aditya and the entire Shiv Sena family." https://x.com/RahulGandhi/status/1858041409934397608 Born on January 23, 1926, in Pune, Balasaheb Thackeray had begun his professional career as a cartoonist with the English-language daily 'The Free Press Journal'. He later quit his professional job and founded the Shiv Sena in 1966 to advocate for the interests of the people of Maharashtra, particularly in Mumbai's political and professional landscape. Thackeray was also the founder of the Marathi-language newspaper 'Saamana'. Despite his significant influence in politics, he did not hold any official positions during his political career. (ANI) ORMOND BEACH, Fla. (WFLA) A young Ormond Beach boy at the center of a Missing Child Alert was found dead Sunday night. An alert was issued for 4-year-old Waylon Childs around 2 p.m. after he was reported missing from the area of Fleming Avenue, according to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Vigil held for teen who died saving sister in rip current, days after remains washed ashore Waylons father had been at a park with him and his two siblings, all under the age of 5, when the young boy disappeared, Ormond Beach Police said. Waylon Childs (Credit: FDLE) The Ormond Beach Police Department, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, FDLE, Volusia Sheriffs Office, and local law enforcement from neighboring cities worked closely together to conduct a thorough and exhaustive search that spanned nearly the whole day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then, at around 9:02 p.m. authorities said they recovered Waylons body near the park where he had gone missing. This is a heartbreaking tragedy, and our hearts are with Waylons family during this unimaginable loss, said Ormond Beach Police Chief Jesse Godfrey. We would like to thank the community, and all the agencies involved for their support and efforts during this search. The Ormond Beach Police Department remains committed to standing with the family and our community in the days ahead. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. DES MOINES, Iowa The Des Moines Police Department announced Saturday evening that the missing Des Moines teen has been reunited with her family. Earlier this week the Des Moines Police Department asked for the communitys help locating missing 14-year-old Kiley Sporer. She was last seen on November 11th in the Union Park neighborhood. Kiley did not have her phone and was without her prescribed medication. Name of victim in fatal Hamilton County crash released Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Des Moines Police Department announced that Kiley Sporer has been found safe and has been reunited with her family. The Des Moines Police Department thanks all who remained vigilant during her absence. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. Moldova's Foreign Minister Mihai Popsoi has confirmed that Russian missiles and drones violated the country's airspace on the morning of 17 November. Source: Popsoi on X (Twitter), reported by European Pravda We strongly condemn the violation of Moldovas airspace by Russias missiles and drones targeting Ukraines critical infrastructure today. Explosions near our border and sightings of low-flying drones over villages underscore the risks to our people from Russias brutal war. pic.twitter.com/WFa4OX46cr Mihai Popsoi (@MihaiPopsoi) November 17, 2024 Details: Foreign Minister also posted a video capturing the sound of missiles flying overhead. Quote: "We strongly condemn the violation of Moldova's airspace by Russian missiles and drones targeting Ukraine's critical infrastructure. Explosions near our border and drones flying low over our villages highlight the risks posed to our citizens by Russia's brutal war." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: The footage, originally posted by Popsoi was shared by NordNews, which reported that it was sent by a resident of Ruseni village in Edinet District. The sender said that the missiles flew at low altitudes and the sound was recorded by surveillance cameras. The Moldovan governments Prima Sursa Telegram channel reported that several Russian drones may have breached Moldova's airspace. Due to their low altitude, they were not detected by radar systems. The statement also mentioned sightings of a missile on the Ukrainian side near Larga in Briceni District. Background: On 10 November, Moldova identified two drones in Causeni and Riscani Districts. Subsequently, the Moldovan Foreign Ministry handed a protest note to the Russian ambassador. Later, Moldovan authorities discovered a third drone on the outskirts of Cosernita village. Moldova has previously reported finding wreckage from drones used in Russian airstrikes on Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! Moldovan President Maia Sandu has strongly condemned Russia's latest large-scale attack on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Source: Sandu on X (Twitter), as reported by European Pravda Details: Sandu condemned the use of winter to force the subjugation of an entire nation. "I strongly condemn Russias massive air strikes on power infrastructure across Ukraine. Weaponising winter to freeze a nation into submission is cruel and unacceptable. Moldova stands with Ukraine," the Moldovan president tweeted. I strongly condemn Russias massive air strikes on power infrastructure across Ukraine. Weaponising winter to freeze a nation into submission is cruel and unacceptable. Moldova stands with Ukraine. Maia Sandu (@sandumaiamd) November 17, 2024 Background: Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stressed that Russia's latest large-scale missile attack against Ukraine was war criminal Vladimir Putin's response to those who have called or visited him recently. On the afternoon of 15 November, it was reported that Scholz had spoken to Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin for the first time in two years. At the time, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy labelled the call a "Pandora's box". Support UP or become our patron! This is not something hes going to just get over overnight, the Maryland mother said of her sons mental state Getty A public restroom (stock image) A public restroom (stock image) The parents of a 7-year-old Maryland student have "so many questions left unanswered" after they say their son was hung in a school bathroom. The boys mother, whose identity has not been shared, recounted the incident in a social media post and provided details of what happened on Friday, Nov. 15, at Waldorfs C. Paul Barnhart Elementary School to area outlets WUSA News 9, WTOP News and Fox 5 Washington, D.C. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The parents told WUSA 9 News that the injuries their son sustained included marks under his eyes and bruises on his neck from being choked. Hes traumatized. Its going to take time, the mom said. This is not something hes going to just get over overnight. The school released a statement on the day of the incident, describing it as a horseplaying accident. "Two of our students were reportedly horseplaying in a school bathroom when one students jacket got caught on a stall door hook," the school wrote. The student was not able to free themselves and the other student involved was also not able to help them, the statement continued. This student left the bathroom to seek help from staff and reported the incident to administrators. Administrators responded and were able to assist, but staff called 911 for additional precautionary medical support. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. The school concluded by thanking the students who reported the incident, the staff for managing the situation and the students for following directions while the paramedics were on site to administer care for the student. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement C. Paul Barnhart Elementary School also said that there is an ongoing investigation into the incident, and the school resource officer and police are involved with the school's administrators. In her Nov. 17 social media post, the boys mother shared a photo of her son in a hospital bed, writing, My child who is a 2nd grader was hung in the boys bathroom by a 4th grader. She said she received "the most traumatizing phone call" from the school informing her that her son was being rushed to a children's hospital. "The principal went into the bathroom & found my baby foaming out the mouth & unconscious," she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I walked into the trauma room with 8-10 doctors surrounding my son, the mom continued. This is the most heartbreaking & traumatizing situation my family has ever been in. The mother is hoping to bring awareness to other parents and students about the incident, emphasizing that everything about this is unacceptable nothing about this is ok BULLYING is never ok. Im feeling anger & seeing red but my son is here by the grace of GOD and I will forever be thankful, she concluded. I have so many questions left unanswered. I thank everyone for all the calls check ups & prayers. A mother's intuition led to the return of Delimar Vera after six years AP Photo/Joseph Kaczmarek Luz Cuevas, Delimar Vera Luz Cuevas, Delimar Vera It started with a fire at the Philadelphia home of Luz Cuevas and Pedro Vera in December 1996. The fire rampaged through the home and gutted the second-floor bedroom where the couples 10-day-old daughter Delimar was sleeping. Authorities presumed the infant perished in the blaze. In a strange twist, six years later, Cuevas, who never believed her daughter died in the fire, was attending a birthday party when she saw a young girl named Aaliyah. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was convinced the child was Delimar, according to The Guardian. I have dimples and all of my siblings have dimples," Delimar, now 26, said in a recent interview with the U.K. daytime show, This Morning. "That was the first give away from her. She always says, Blood calls so she could sense that I was hers. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. Cuevas was confident in her mother's intuition, so she slyly nabbed a strand of the childs hair, brought it to police, and asked them to conduct a DNA test, The Guardian reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prior to the administration of the DNA test, Delimar has a distinct memory of the woman she believed to be her mother, Carolyn Correa, spraying some kind of substance in my mouth, she told This Morning. Delimar says she later learned the unknown substance was Correas saliva. Getty, AP Photo/Joseph Kaczmarek Luz Cuevas; Pedro Vera Luz Cuevas; Pedro Vera DNA testing eventually confirmed that Delimar was the daughter of Cuevas. For six years, she'd been living with Correa and her family in Willingboro, N.J., just 15 miles away from her Philadelphia home, Time reported. Soon, Delimar went back to Philadelphia to live with her mother. Correa was taken into custody and charged with kidnapping, per The Guardian. She was ultimately convicted and sentenced to 30 years, per the Associated Press. Delimar Vera/Instagram Delimar Vera Delimar Vera Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At first it was really exciting, Delimar said about the national attention the case garnered, per This Morning. All the cameras and the gifts but then it became too much having to go in our home through the backyard. Now, Delimar is telling her own story in the three-episode Fremantle documentary The Hand that Robbed the Cradle. In an interview with Variety in advance of the film, Delimar says she had a real identity crisis." They said: Shes back, its done, we have a happy ending. ... I didnt know who to be. I tried to pick my new familys mannerisms, to make it seem like I was never kidnapped, but I was also mourning my old family. When I was a child, I felt like I had two moms. It wasnt until I was 11 or 12 years old that the reality finally set in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Delimar struggled. At one point, she left her mothers home and moved in with her father, who had separated from Cuevas, but after a fight with him, she ended up in a group home when she was 15, according to The Guardian. For a long time, I felt unworthy, undeserving of certain things, she told The Guardian. AP Photo/Joseph Kaczmarek Carolyn Correa Carolyn Correa By the age of 20, she was sick of feeling sorry for myself, of being a victim. You really come to realize that not everybody is going to feel as bad for you as you do for yourself," she told The Guardian. "You have to accept that and do better. Today, Delimar is married and lives with her husband Isaiah and her 11-year-old stepson in Philadelphia and still speaks with her father and mother multiple times a week, according to The Guardian. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the question still remains: Why did Correa kidnap her? And did she have an accomplice? "I dont feel like I need to sit down and have that conversation with [Correa] because I learned a lot of things about Carolyn and how her mind works, and I dont know if it is going to be the truth," Delimar told This Morning. She adds: "There is no way she took me out of a two-story home by herself, per This Morning. Delimar Vera tells her own story in the three-episode Fremantle documentary The Hand that Robbed the Cradle. MOOREVILLE Mooreville Middle School and Mooreville High School hosted their annual Veterans Day program in the high school gym the morning of Thursday, Nov. 14. The program is a tradition that goes back three decades, to when now-retired Mooreville teacher Carol Rupert founded it in 1993. Knowing there were many World War II veterans living in the area, she wanted to do something to honor them. Her students loved the program, so she did it again the next year, and the next, and the program has lived on since then. When Rupert retired in 2014, MHS teacher Amanda Fowler took over the annual program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The participation from the community has been wonderful, Rupert said, reflecting on the programs history. The administrations have been very supportive down through the years. And its a good time before Thanksgiving, to do this program. It makes us conscious of our blessings. Thursdays program kicked off with a trumpeter from the MHS band, Colton Namie, performing Reveille. MHS Principal Kevin Long, one of Ruperts former students, welcomed attendees. It's a great honor for us to be able to honor y'all, and for what y'all have done for the country, and for the sacrifices y'all made, and just for your service to the country, Long said, speaking to the veterans in the room. We appreciate it very much. There were a number of songs played and sung throughout the program. The MHS band performed beautiful renditions of American Flourish, Veterans Day Salute and Freedom. The MHS and MMS choirs performed The Star Spangled Banner, American Anthem and Veterans Day Salute. Student Ella Smith sang and played Travelin Soldier, and student Ro Fowler sang God Bless the U.S.A. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before the presentation of the flag, Long spoke on its meaning and importance. (The flag) assures us of our rights and reminds us of our responsibilities to her and to the people she stands for, Long said. It is our duty to respect her at all times, our honor to properly display her, and our privilege, should the occasion arise, to defend her. So many have served greatly and proudly wearing the Stars and Stripes on their shoulders, knowing that a flag-draped coffin could soon be their own. Today, we honor the flag, the flag of the United States of America, and display it proudly, specifically today, in tribute to those people. Members of the middle and high school student councils went to the front of the gym to give brief statements on most of the American conflicts throughout history and to honor their veterans, as well as peacetime veterans, active-duty service members, widows and first responders. (First responders were added to the program in 2001, following the events of 9/11). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attending veterans from each of the conflicts of the last 80 years were honored, and then each service branch was honored as well. Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Bary Parker, who served in the Army for 37 years, including on three deployments, was the guest speaker at the program. He commented that the MMS/MHS Veterans Day program was one of the best hed been to. Freedom is not free, Parker told the crowd. You know, there's a lot of men and women who's paid the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom we enjoy today. He advised attendees to be servants, whether that meant serving their country in the military or serving in some other capacity. Be a good member of the community, he said, and respect your neighbors. Help the people around you who need it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finally, the program closed with a rendition of Taps, played by Namie. Everyone stood as the bugle call rang through the gym. We are all so blessed at Moorville that our students always pick up the mantle from the students as they graduate year in and year out, and they really come through for us in this program, Amanda Fowler said after the program. We owe God our lives, but we owe our veterans for our freedom every single day. U.S. officials would allow increased logging on federal lands across the Pacific Northwest in the name of fighting wildfires and boosting rural economies under proposed changes to a sweeping forest management plan thats been in place for three decades. The U.S. Forest Service proposal, released Friday, would overhaul the Northwest Forest Plan that governs about 38,000 square miles (99,000 square kilometers) in Oregon, Washington and California. The plan was adopted in 1994 under President Bill Clinton amid pressure to curb destructive logging practices that resulted in widespread clearcuts and destroyed habitat used by spotted owls. Timber harvests dropped dramatically in subsequent years, spurring political backlash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But federal officials now say worsening wildfires due to climate change mean forests must be more actively managed to increase their resiliency. Increased logging also would provide a more predictable supply of trees for timber companies, officials said, helping rural economies that have suffered after lumber mills shut down and forestry jobs disappeared. The proposal could increase annual timber harvests by at least 33% and potentially more than 200%, according to a draft environmental study. The number of timber-related jobs would increase accordingly. Harvest volumes from the 17 national forests covered by the Northwest Forest Plan averaged about 445 million board feet annually over the past decade, according to government figures. Cutting more trees would help reduce wildfire risk and make communities safer, the study concluded. That would be accomplished in part by allowing cuts in some areas with stands of trees up to 120 years old up from the current age threshold of 80 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The change could help foster conditions conducive to growing larger, old growth trees that are more resistant to fire, by removing younger trees, officials said. A separate pending proposal from President Joe Biden's administration aims to increase protections nationwide for old growth trees, which play a significant role in storing climate change-inducing carbon dioxide. Much has changed in society and science since the Northwest Forest Plan was created, Jacque Buchanan, regional forester for the Forest Services Pacific Northwest Region, said in a statement. He said the proposal would help the agency adapt to shifting conditions, as global warming increases the frequency of droughts and other extreme weather events. The proposed plan also calls for closer cooperation between the Forest Service and Native American tribes to tap into tribal knowledge about forest management. Tribes were excluded when the 1994 plan was crafted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Environmentalists greeted the proposal with skepticism. The group Oregon Wild said it was deeply troubling that the Forest Service would release the proposal just ahead of a change in presidential administrations. It appears that the Forest Service wants to abandon the fundamental purpose of the Northwest Forest Planprotecting fish and wildlife and the mature and old-growth forests they need to survive, John Persell, an attorney for the group, said in a statement. During former President Donald Trumps first term, administration officials sought to open millions of acres of West Coast forest to new logging by stripping habitat protections for the imperiled spotted owl. The move was opposed by government biologists and reversed under Biden. A draft environmental study examined several potential alternatives, including leaving the existing plans components in place or changing them to either reduce or increase logging. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A timber industry representative who co-chaired an advisory committee on the Northwest Forest Plan said the proposed plan resulted from discussions involving committee members, the Forest Service and others. We want to see a modern approach to federal forest stewardship that protects us from catastrophic wildfires, reduces toxic smoke, meaningfully engages tribes, and delivers for our rural communities and workers, said Travis Joseph, president of the American Forest Resource Council. The publishing of the proposal begins a 120-day public comment period. The Forest Service's environmental review is expected to be completed by next fall and a final decision is due in early 2026. With two days left for the Maharashtra elections, All India Congress General Secretary Randeep Surjewala addressed a press conference on Sunday. Attacking the BJP government, Surjewala called the BJP (B) party the 'Bhagoda Jutao' company and said that there four main M were- Mumbai mortagage, Mahayuti guns and Gundaraj, MMR's Shinde and Mahayuti means 'Mehangai'. Addressing the media. Surjewala said "Maharashtra and Mumbai are under a designed attack by the Khoka Group vultures, also known as the B company. Mumbai and Maharashtra's skill and resources are being plundered by invaders and masqueraded by Mahayuti and they have admitted to political brokerage." Further, he raised questions on how leading industrialist Adani became Mumbai's biggest land developers. Speaking on the first M--Mumbai Morgaged, Surjewala said "CBI and ED had raided GVK in June 2020 and in August 2020 GVK got clean chits from CBI and ED. Adani now owns Mumbai Airport, and also owns Mumbai's electricity supply... Adani has been awared 6,600 megawatts of electricity till 2049, making him a owner of a large portion of power production. He is the beneficiary of Maharashtra's biggest land deal --Dharavi Development Project...He is also allocated 990 acres of land in Mumbai. 429 acres of project area, 21.25 acres of Kola Dairy land, 140 acres of mud island and 255 acres of the Central government, and 125 acres of Bonar dumping ground, making it in all 990 acres." Surjewala spoke on the issue of how every builder has to compulsorily buy TDR from the Dharavi project and said "Every builder in Mumbai now has to compulsorily buy TDR transfer development rights from Adani. In November 2023, it was made mandatory for every builder of Bombay to buy 40 per cent of TDR from Dharavi project, which effectively says that any builder and the whole of Mumbai is completely dependent on Adani. Why are TDR rights to be bought only from Adani across Mumbai? The answer is a fresh survey.I ask as a citizen, if a fresh survey is being done, then how is it that a tender can be allocated? When the number of eligible beneficiaries, the area to be constructed or allotted or land required, cost of the project either to the state or to the developer is not known, then how have you allocated the tender? There is a dichotomy and that's why I call it Mumbai mortgaged.This is what the Mahayuti is doing." Speaking on the second M --Mahayuti's gunraj and gundraj, Surjewala alleged that under Mahayuti, Mumbai Metropolitian Region (MMR) had become badlands of crime remembering the recent murder of the political leader Baba Siddique by the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. "Among India's biggest cities, I am sure you know Mumbai is the highest in crimes, with 14 crimes reported in a day. The instances and the trail reveal a shocking pattern of complicity, collusion of the Mahayuti leaders with the gangsters and criminals. Shots are being fired at their residences bang in the middle of Mumbai, by the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Mr. Lawrence Bishnoi, the dreaded gangster, continues to be lodged in the high security Sabarmati jail in Gujarat with Mumbai police not being permitted to interrogate him. What should I call it? Complicity, collusion or coincidence, you to judge... Now people are shooting each other, not outside where police can't reach, but in the premises of the police station," he said. Attacking Eknath Shinde, he said "Shinde, despite being Chief Minister, runs and gives protection to gangs and booms and known criminals. All these instances rove the protection of gunraj and gundaraj culture by Mahayuti." Speaking on the third M --Mahayuti and Mehngai, Surejwala said "Eknath Shinde has been awarding contracts and tenders at breakneck speed without following procedures. Jayant Maheshar's company MEP collects toll at five entry points and had gone into bankruptcy, goes to NLC... Is the Prime Minister going to share how much compensation is to be paid by Maharashtra government to MEP in a year? Is it not correct that MMRDA has taken a Rs 30,000 loan from the Power Finance Corporation on interest on which Maharashtra has to pay interest has also pay back the principal. Thirdly, is it correct that the MMRDA will now start collecting tolls starting the year 2029 in the MMR region for a period of 35 years to repay this 30,000 corrode and interest of loan taken by MMRDA. So how are we in Mumbai and MMR benefiting is a question that I asked myself. How many tenders and contracts have been awarded by Mr. Eknath Shinde and his government in the last one year, particularly in the last six months? On one side you say removal of tolls and on the other side you are imposing tolls up to 2064 to pay back this 30,000. So which one is correct? Are you imposing removing tolls or are you going to impose tolls between 2029 and 2064?... Speaking of the upcoming elections, he said that there was always room for correction and introspection. "There is scope for correction and introspection. With two more days of active campaigning left and one day of silence period, I am sure the people of Mumbai and people in MMR will consider some of the issues," he concluded. (ANI) WASHINGTON, DC (DC News Now)The mother of a young man whose body police found near Suitland Parkway in Anacostia is speaking out on her loss. The first thing that I want for my son is justice. I want justice, said Ingris, who opted not to give her last name or show her face on camera. 18-year-old Alexander Pavon-Rios was her oldest son. Ingris said he vanished on Oct. 27. Then, on Nov. 8 at around 6:55 a.m., Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers were called to the 2600 block of Dunbar Road after someone reported finding human remains. MPD said that the caller reported the body being near a vent shaft. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police later identified the body as Pavon-Rios. My son was a happy teenager, who was just happy, Ingris told DC News Now. Anywhere he went, he just brought a smile to everyones face. He got along with everyone he interacted with. Police use helicopter to find, arrest carjacking suspect in Northwest DC Since his death, Ingris has turned to social media to come up with the money for the funeral so her son can be buried in his home country of Nicaragua. However, thats not all she wants. Im also looking to move back to Nicaragua permanently because I dont feel safe, Ingris said. There is still no word from D.C. police on any suspects or a motive in the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police are offering a $25,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest and conviction for the 18-year-olds death. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. MEMPHIS, Tenn. On Saturday, dozens laced up to walk or run in an annual 5k thats all about honoring officers in our city. For the seventh year, those with the Memphis Polie Department put together the Turkey Trot with Cops. You may have heard the phrase, Its a good day to have a good day. Well, in this case, it was a great day to support a great cause. I-55 bridge replacement to begin in 2026; Crump roundabout should open 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Runners and walkers alike lined up to honor officers who made the ultimate sacrifice. This is the seventh year we are doing this, said MPD officer Kimberly Nailor. In honor of Sergeant Verdell Smith and Officer Darrell Adams who passed away in the line of duty. Along with all Memphis Police officers who died while serving and protecting. Officer Nailor, who is proud to be the neighborhood watch community outreach coordinator with the Austin Peay Precinct, told WREG that this is a labor of love. MPD hosts seventh annual Turkey Trot 5k. MPD hosts seventh annual Turkey Trot 5k. MPD hosts seventh annual Turkey Trot 5k. MPD hosts seventh annual Turkey Trot 5k. MPD hosts seventh annual Turkey Trot 5k. She along with others in the Memphis Police Department are honoring fallen officers, while also building up community engagement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I just want the people to know that we love them and we want them to love us the same way we do them, Nailor said. There was certainly love and enthusiasm in the air, including from middle schoolers who will tell you without a doubt that they were excited to play a part. We are volunteering for the community to help around, eighth grader Kennedy Gilmore said. Company to bring over 800 skilled jobs to Memphis Showing that youre never too young to give back to those who give selflessly day in and day out. And with that, they were off to run or walk in this years Turkey Trot. Dozens have gathered to take part in this annual event including MPDs December recruit class. Officers who are walking along the same streets they will soon patrol in order to serve and protect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So, whether these participants were on the move to take on the 3.1 miles or if they were showing off their moves, today was a good day to do just that. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) said it is looking for a man who followed a woman into a building and made inappropriate comments and threats in Navy Yard on Friday afternoon. Police said that at about 12:10 p.m., officers responded to the 1000 block of First Street in Southeast D.C. for reports of a suspicious person. Crews recover body from Potomac River in Northwest DC, MPD investigating Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When officers arrived at the scene, they learned that a man approached a woman and followed her into her building while making threatening gestures and inappropriate comments. The suspect then left the area. MPD said surveillance cameras captured the suspect, who is pictured here: Credit: The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Anyone who can identify the suspect or has information about this incident should call police at (202) 727-9099 or text a tip to the Departments TEXT TIP LINE at 50411. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Nov. 16The letter from the Morgantown Utility Board was, admittedly, a little bit alarming when it arrived in some 20, 000 mailboxes late last month. "Notice of Unknown Service Line Material, " printed across the top. The letter then commences to describe the potentially life-altering health impacts of prolonged lead exposure, particularly in children. Within a day or so, it had prompted dozens of social media posts and comments and more than a few calls to the utility board and its representatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are required to send these letters out by the [United States Environmental Protection Agency ], and the language is required language, " Morgantown Utility Board General Manager Mike McNulty said. "The first thing we want to make sure everyone knows is we have no concerns about lead whatsoever. MUB has been testing for years per the guidelines of the EPA ... So, we're comfortable in saying we're not worried about it. Nobody should be worried." The effort is part of sweeping regulations announced by the EPA in November 2023. Under those changes, water utilities nationwide were required to submit an initial inventory of lead service lines by Oct. 16, 2024. Locally, MUB dug through records dating back to the 1920s and a fair amount of dirt to confirm the materials used in some 40, 000 service lines in its coverage area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have no known lead service lines within our water system, " MUB Communications Director Chris Dale said. What MUB can't do, however, is encroach on private property. The new EPA mandate requires MUB to also document the materials used on the customer's side meaning everything from the property line or water meter to the home, business or school. That's where the letters come in. "We still have a lot of unknowns on the customer side in our system, and we need help. We need help identifying those and that's what those letters and bill inserts were ; just asking customers to provide us with that information, " Assistant General Manager Rich Rogers said. "That ask is still out there. We need all the help we can get." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rogers said that of the 30, 000 or so customer connections it needs to check, MUB's probably received about 300 responses. Lead pipes are most likely to be found serving homes built before 1986. Congress banned their use in the late 80s but allowed existing lines to remain in service. On its end, MUB checked everything it put in the ground prior to 1990. Rogers explained that as long as the utility continues making progress in checking off "unknowns " on the customer side, it will remain in compliance with EPA guidelines. "You just have to make progress, and we're certainly doing that, " he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For most customers, helping MUB mark their homes off the list is as easy as taking a cell phone photo and emailing it. For information on how you can confirm your service line, check out mub.org /inventory, contact MUB at 304-292-8443 or email MUB at serviceline @mub.org. Further, the EPA has developed a step-by-step guide to help identify lead pipes. The guide is available by searching "Protect Your Tap: A Quick Check for Lead." Lastly, McNulty said MUB is available to assist in person. "If someone doesn't know what it is or they need help, all they need to do is call and we'll set up an appointment and send a couple employees out, " he said. "We can help anyone who needs the help." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the EPA issued the new reporting rules, it explained that there were more than 9 million lead pipes delivering water in the United States as of 2021. That number, it explained, comprised about 9 % of the existing infrastructure. The heavy metal is a powerful neurotoxin. The EPA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention agree there is no known safe level of lead in a child's blood. Prolonged exposure will result in significant and irreversible health impacts including learning disabilities and behavioral issues. And it continues to show up. It 2022, the Monongalia County Health Department launched a pilot testing program through its WIC nutrition program to begin testing in Harrison County after kids in Clarksburg begin turning up with elevated lead levels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those exposures were tied to contamination of the public drinking water due to old service lines. Earlier this year, the health department expanded that testing to include Monongalia and Marion counties. MCHD oversees WIC for a six-county region. Nutritionist Jason Nguyen said MCHD WIC completed 68 lead tests in September and 66 in October across the three counties. "I can confirm there have been elevated lead levels among children, " Nguyen said. "We had one child with a very high level recently in Marion County." Multiple crews with the Seattle Fire Department put out a house fire early Sunday morning after a car crashed into it and caught ablaze in Capitol Hill. Kaila Lafferty, a public information officer with the department, said around 4:30 a.m. Sunday, multiple fire crews went to a single-family home at 15th Avenue East and East Aloha Street in Seattles Capitol Hill neighborhood. A car crashed into the home and caused a small exterior fire. The driver got out of the car safely. When fire crews arrived at the home, they found the driver, an 80-year-old man, with a non-life-threatening injury, Lafferty said. Paramedics took him to a local hospital in stable condition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Firefighters put out the exterior fire that had also spread into a crawl space. No reports indicated that anyone was in the home at the time of the crash and fire, Lafferty said. Primary and secondary searches of the home were clear. No firefighters reported injuries. Seattle police are investigating the cause of the crash. ROBESON COUNTY, N.C. (WBTW) A weeklong roadside cleanup effort in Robeson County resulted in the collection of multiple deadly weapons and drug paraphernalia including a crack pipe, Sheriff Burnis Wilkins said on Sunday. Detention Center inmates this week filled nearly 600 bags of trash through North Carolinas Adopt-A-Highway program. Multiple deadly weapons were located in ditches, along with crack pipes, mattresses, toilet fixtures, tires, furniture and so on, Wilkins said in a Facebook post. A lot of this was covered by high weeds in ditches, while most of it was in plain view alongside the roadway. Photo courtesy of Robeson County Sheriff Burnis Wilkins Wilkins urged residents to volunteer and clean up areas in their communities as part of the countys crime-fighting and public safety efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Everyone wants to complain about it and talk trash, but we need help in picking it up. Yes, we would love to catch these people dumping the trash, but that is much harder than you think, Wilkins said. North Carolina launched its Adopt-A-Highway initiative in 1988, and its currently run by more than 120,000 volunteers. Wilkins said inmates will return to the job this week. * * * Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. Elon Musk, a billionaire and close ally of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, mocked on Nov. 16 President Volodymyr Zelensky for saying that Ukraine is an independent country that cannot be forced to "sit and listen." Initially a supporter of Ukraine, the SpaceX and Tesla CEO and one of the world's richest people has made progressively controversial remarks about the besieged country as the war progressed. The billionaire reposted a modified excerpt from Zelensky's interview with the Suspilne broadcaster shared on X, which read: "The U.S. cannot force us to 'sit and listen' at the negotiating table. We are an independent country." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk added his own comments, mockingly saying, "(His) sense of humor is amazing." He also attached a link to a BBC article published in 2021, presenting Zelensky as a "comedian who had no experience of politics when elected." The article was updated after the outbreak of the full-scale invasion, saying that the president "has suddenly emerged as a convincing war leader." He sense of humor is amazing https://t.co/4BL4rTXaZS https://t.co/pacq5vNkza Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 16, 2024 In the interview with Suspilne, Zelensky was asked what messages he received from Trump regarding possible negotiations with Russia. The U.S. president-elect previously said he would end the war within "24 hours," and his team pledged to bring Kyiv and Moscow to the negotiating table. "We are independent Ukraine. I think that during this war, our people and I personally, in negotiations with the U.S., with Trump, Biden, and European leaders, have shown that the rhetoric 'sit and listen' does not work with us," Zelensky responded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Musk made the post shortly after two U.S. Democratic senators called upon the government to investigate reports of Musk's communications with Russian officials, including President Vladimir Putin. The Wall Street Journals recent report cited U.S., European, and Russian officials who claimed Musk had several conversations with Putin and Russian Deputy Chief of Staff Sergei Kiriyenko. Musk responded on his X network that he is "going to find out who's making these accusations and nuke them." The billionaire is seen as becoming increasingly influential in Trump's team and has been tapped to lead the "Department of Government Efficiency," a newly-proposed advisory body. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Axios, Musk joined on a phone call between Zelensky and Trump shortly after the latter's election victory, reportedly saying he would continue to support Ukraine through his Starlink satellites. Read also: Step toward World War III Russian MPs react to long-range strike permission reports Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) The name of a man who was killed in a crash near Clear Lake, South Dakota has been released. Preliminary crash information states that Richard Allen Vant Hul, the driver of a 2022 Chrysler Voyager, was traveling east on US 212 near mile marker 399. At the same time, a 2013 Ford Econoline was traveling west on US 212 and crossed into the eastbound lane to pass a vehicle in front of him. Fire damages Sioux Falls commercial building Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While passing, the cars collided head-on. Vant Hul died at the scene. The driver of the Econoline sustained serious, non-life-threatening injuries. Highway Patrol is investigating the incident. All information released is subject to change. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday addressed the media and spoke on additional Rs 5,000 hectares in the bank accounts of soyabean and cotton cultivators. "Soyabean and cotton cultivators are being given an additional Rs 5,000 hectare in their accounts. The import duty on edible oils from Malaysia and Indonesia has also been effectively increased to 27.5 percent so that the oil mills in the domestic markets purchase soyabeans from the domestic farmers and pay them the right price to benefit them. The moisture content in the soyabeans during the procurement has also been increased from 12 percent to 15 percent," he added. The Union Minister also spoke about the Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana. The Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana is a program in which the government compensates farmers for the difference between MSP and rate at which the farmers sell their crops, which is relatively higher. "One of our schemes is the Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana. It depends on the government on how whether they want to directly buy supplies or use the MSP and deposit the money in the farmers account. In the second scheme, the ICAR will determine the model rate for crops like potatoes, onions and tomatoes and give a 50 percent profit on the production cost. This will help the farmers not face losses when retail costs are lower. Another scheme is for the transportation costs. So our scheme says that the government will brunt the transportation costs that the farmers earlier used to pay," he said. Soybean, a key cash crop, is primarily grown ahead of Diwali, as it provides farmers with immediate liquidity during the festive season. The Vidarbha and Marathwada regions are particularly significant for soybean cultivation Notably, Maharashtra, which is going to the Assembly polls on November 20, is a key grower of soybeans.(ANI) HUEYTOWN, Ala. (WIAT) The Hueytown community remembered NASCAR legend Bobby Allison as his family laid him to rest on Saturday. It was a somber day in Hueytown as Allison took his final ride down Allison-Bonnet Memorial Drive. Friends, community members and people wanting to pay their respects lined the streets. Hueytown honored Bobby a good bit, and he honored Hueytown, said Hueytown resident Mike Elrod. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elrod and his wife, Julie, stood by as Allisons casket made its way to the cemetery. Its a sad day in Hueytown, so we come out here to honor Bobby and just be a part of it, Elrod added. The procession, complete with a police escort, was guided by fans. Hueytown resident Kelly Clinton said, He is really going to be missed. I just cannot say enough about him. Signs displayed along the road showed just how much Allison meant to the community, and how his friendship and kindness was seen by everyone he interacted with. I dont think you could find a better representative for Hueytown; I dont think you could find a better person, Elrod said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Allison was buried at a Hueytown cemetery during a closed service attended by his family and friends. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. WASHINGTON In addition to articles already covered by Native News Online, here is a roundup of other news released from Washington, D.C. that impacts Indian Country recently. Indian Health Service Announces Updated Tribal Consultation Policy The Indian Health Service (IHS) on Wednesday announced the update of its Tribal Consultation Policy. The revised policy is a significant step toward strengthening the Agencys commitment to meaningful and effective consultation and reflects over three years of collaborations with Tribal leaders through multiple rounds of Tribal consultation, alongside efforts of the IHS Directors Advisory Workgroup on Tribal Consultation (Consultation Workgroup). Never miss Indian Countrys biggest stories and breaking news. Click here to sign up to get our reporting sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want to express my sincere appreciation to the Consultation Workgroup members for their commitment and hard work in helping us shape this important policy update, IHS Director Roselyn Tso said. The update is an example of Tribal consultation in practice and underscores the Agencys unwavering commitment to the principle of meaningful Nation-to-Nation consultation as we work together to address the health care challenges facing our communities. The update comes more than 18 years after the 2006 policy was issued and introduces clearer guidelines, timelines, and procedures that enhance the IHS Tribal Consultation process. This update aligns with the requirements of Executive Order (EO) 13175 Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments, the Presidential Memoranda on Tribal Consultation and Strengthening Nation-to-Nation Relationships, Uniform Standards for Tribal Consultation, and with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Tribal Consultation Policy. It further includes a training requirement for IHS employees who work with Tribal nations or on policies with Tribal implications, that at a minimum, includes a review of EO 13175, the Presidents Memorandum on Uniform Standards for Tribal Consultation, and the IHS Tribal Consultation Policy. The Dear Tribal Leader Letter announcing the updated IHS Tribal Consultation Policy, including enclosures that outline the Tribal consultation activity and detail the revisions to the updated policy are located on the IHS website at Tribal Leader Letters. NEW Tribal Library E-Rate Advocacy Program (T-LEAP) Launched On Tuesday, October 29, 2024, FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel shared an announcement during the general assembly at the National Congress of American Indians Convention that the FCC has launched the Tribal Library E-Rate Advocacy Program (T-LEAP). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Building on the Tribal Library Pilot Program from the past two years, T-LEAP is a permanent program providing one-on-one assistance for Tribal library applicants in all aspects of preparing, applying, and receiving E-Rate support throughout a funding year. T-LEAP will also help Tribal library participants through E-Rates invoicing and other post-commitment processes. The E-Rate program, with funding from the Universal Service Fund, provides discounts of up to 90 percent of the costs for broadband connections to and within Tribal libraries. The Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), the E-Rate program administrator, will staff the T-LEAP. For more information, visit the following resources: President Biden Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the Crow Tribe of Montana FEMA announced on Friday that federal disaster assistance is available to the Crow Tribe to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storm and straight-line winds that occurred on Aug. 6, 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Presidents action makes federal funding available to affected individuals of the Crow Tribe. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the Crow Tribe. About the Author: "Native News Online is one of the most-read publications covering Indian Country and the news that matters to American Indians, Alaska Natives and other Indigenous people. Reach out to us at editor@nativenewsonline.net. " Contact: news@nativenewsonline.net German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Sunday came under fire from NATO allies for his phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier this week. In a post on X, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said: "No one will stop Putin with phone calls." The massive Russian overnight attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure had shown that "phone diplomacy" could not replace genuine support for Ukraine from the West as a whole, Tusk said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen also called on European leaders to exercise restraint in their dealings with Moscow over the war in Ukraine. Valtonen told the German public broadcaster ARD: "The most important thing is that we understand that it cannot come to this that we end up with a competition for the Kremlin's attention." Having European leaders phoning Putin, whether in a coordinated or uncoordinated way, would not produce results, she said. A coordinated response was required, not only with the United States, but primarily also with Ukraine, Valtonen added. Scholz spoke to the Russian president on Friday for the first time since December 2022. In the call, he repeated a demand for Russian forces to withdraw and for Moscow to show readiness to hold peace talks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky later expressed outrage. "In my opinion, Olaf's call opens Pandora's box," he said in a video message posted on social media platforms. "Now there may be other conversations, other calls ... and that is exactly what Putin has wanted for a long time. It is crucial for him to weaken his international isolation, Russia's isolation," Zelensky said. Scholz sought to defend the call earlier on Sunday. "It was important to say as well that he [Putin] should not count on the support for Ukraine of Germany, of Europe and of many others in the world declining," the chancellor said in Berlin before leaving for the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro. He said he had told Putin "that it is now up to him to ensure that the war comes to an end." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The conversation had been announced well in advance, he said. It had been extensive but had also led to the recognition "that not much has changed with the Russian president regarding his views on this war which is not good news," Scholz said. For that reason it was important "that we are extremely clear on the question of principle, that is to say that Ukraine can rely on us, and that the basic principle applies: there will no decision taken over the heads of Ukraine," Scholz said. He also said it would not be a good idea if there were talks between the US and Russian presidents in the immediate future, without the head of government of an important European country conducting talks. Scholz appeared to be referring to remarks by US President-elect Donald Trump during his campaign that he would bring the war to an end rapidly by means of a deal with Russia. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Sunday came under fire from NATO allies for his phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier this week. In a post on X, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said: "No one will stop Putin with phone calls." The massive Russian overnight attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure had shown that "phone diplomacy" could not replace genuine support for Ukraine from the West as a whole, Tusk said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen also called on European leaders to exercise restraint in their dealings with Moscow over the war in Ukraine. Valtonen told the German public broadcaster ARD: "The most important thing is that we understand that it cannot come to this that we end up with a competition for the Kremlin's attention." Having European leaders phoning Putin, whether in a coordinated or uncoordinated way, would not produce results, she said. A coordinated response was required, not only with the United States, but primarily also with Ukraine, Valtonen added. Scholz spoke to the Russian president on Friday for the first time since December 2022. In the call, he repeated a demand for Russian forces to withdraw and for Moscow to show readiness to hold peace talks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky later expressed outrage. "In my opinion, Olaf's call opens Pandora's box," he said in a video message posted on social media platforms. "Now there may be other conversations, other calls ... and that is exactly what Putin has wanted for a long time. It is crucial for him to weaken his international isolation, Russia's isolation," Zelensky said. Scholz sought to defend the call earlier on Sunday. "It was important to say as well that he [Putin] should not count on the support for Ukraine of Germany, of Europe and of many others in the world declining," the chancellor said in Berlin before leaving for the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro. He said he had told Putin "that it is now up to him to ensure that the war comes to an end." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The conversation had been announced well in advance, he said. It had been extensive but had also led to the recognition "that not much has changed with the Russian president regarding his views on this war which is not good news," Scholz said. For that reason it was important "that we are extremely clear on the question of principle, that is to say that Ukraine can rely on us, and that the basic principle applies: there will no decision taken over the heads of Ukraine," Scholz said. He also said it would not be a good idea if there were talks between the US and Russian presidents in the immediate future, without the head of government of an important European country conducting talks. Scholz appeared to be referring to remarks by US President-elect Donald Trump during his campaign that he would bring the war to an end rapidly by means of a deal with Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said he supported the chancellor's conversation with Putin. "There is no talk of peace with Putin at the moment, and yet we must keep trying and at the same time support Ukraine," he told the public broadcaster ARD on Sunday evening. Less than 48 hours after Friday's phone call, Pistorius said Putin showed "what he thinks of peace negotiations or a ceasefire." "He had civilian infrastructure in Ukraine bombed from the air in a way that has not been seen for a long time," he said. A NATO flag is seen at the Oberlausitz military training area. A NATO spokeswoman expressed sharp criticism of massive overnight Russian attacks on Ukraine's power grid and said the alliance would continue to support Kiev. Robert Michael/dpa NATO has denounced Russia's massive attack on Ukraine, as a result of which civilians were killed and subjected to terror. Source: NATO spokesperson, cited by Tagesschau, as reported by European Pravda Details: NATO spokesperson highlighted that these attacks targeted critical energy infrastructure in Ukraine. The Alliance stands with Ukraine and its members will continue to contribute to strengthening Ukraines defensive capabilities, the spokesperson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NATO also sought to reassure its member states. In Poland, an alliance member state neighbouring Ukraine, fighter jets were scrambled as a precautionary measure during the attack, which included strikes on the city of Lviv, bordering Poland. The Alliance has reinforced its air and missile defence systems because of Russias war. The spokesperson explained that the Alliance would continue to evaluate its deployments to ensure the security of all its members: "We will continue to assess our deployments and ensure the protection of all Allied partners". Background: In the early hours of 17 November, Russian forces launched a combined strike on Ukraines energy sector using 210 missiles and drones, 144 of which were intercepted. Ukraines Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha described the latest large-scale missile attack as a response by war criminal Vladimir Putin to recent calls and visits from foreign leaders. Support UP or become our patron! A NATO spokeswoman expressed sharp criticism of massive overnight Russian attacks on Ukraine's power grid and said the alliance would continue to support Kiev. "NATO strongly condemns Russia's large-scale attack against Ukraine, that has killed and terrorized civilians and targeted critical energy infrastructure," the spokeswoman said. "We stand by Ukraine, and allies continue to make unprecedented contributions to Ukraine's defences," she added. She noted that in response to the war, NATO had strengthened its air and missile defence and said it would continue to assess its posture and defend all members. Liberty Energy Donald Trumps pick for energy secretary called net zero a sinister goal and drank bleach on camera. Chris Wright, the founder and chief executive of Denver-based Liberty Energy, is expected to spearhead Mr Trumps drill baby drill plans to increase oil and gas production and seek new ways to boost energy. A climate sceptic who has filed lawsuits opposing climate disclosure rules, Mr Wright has called climate activists alarmist and has likened efforts by Democrats to combat global warming to Soviet-style communism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2019, he made headlines when he drank a fracking fluid cocktail containing a collection of chemicals, which he knocked back with colleagues after toasting the long lives and healthier lives of billions of people all around the world from oil and gas. Last year, he was briefly censored by LinkedIn for posting a video in which he said: There is no climate crisis and were not in the midst of an energy transition either. Destructive deceptions During the 12-minute video, he said that the terms climate crisis, energy transition, carbon pollution, clean energy and dirty energy are all destructive deceptions that cause children anxiety. Mr Wright went on to say that we have seen no increase in the frequency of hurricanes, tornadoes, droughts or floods as a result of climate change a claim that is widely disputed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The social media platform took the video down, claiming it violated its policy on spam and scams, before restoring it the next day, according to The Wall Street Journal. Mr Wright, who does not have any political experience, has written extensively on the need for more fossil fuel production to lift people out of poverty. He has stood out among oil and gas executives for his confrontational, freewheeling style. In a keynote address to oil and gas industry figures earlier this year, Mr Wright has said theres no such thing as renewable energy, adding that the target of reaching net zero emissions by 2050 is sinister. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Net zero 2050: zero chance of this happening, but its actually a sinister goal because we spend an insane amount of money pretending were going to actually achieve this, he said. He added that the net result has been to make energy more expensive, less reliable, and impoverish people. Expansion of nuclear power As energy secretary, Mr Wright would oversee US energy diplomacy, administer petroleum reserves which Mr Trump has said he wants to replenish and run programmes to advance new energy technologies. Mr Wright will also probably be involved in the expansion of nuclear power, an energy source that is popular with both Republicans and Democrats, as well as marshalling the countrys ageing nuclear weapons complex, waste disposal and 17 national labs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His predecessor, Jennifer Granholm, is a supporter of electric vehicles, emerging energy sources like geothermal power and a backer of carbon-free wind, solar and nuclear energy. Announcing his nomination, the president-elect said that Mr Wright has been a leading technologist and entrepreneur in energy. As energy secretary, he will be a key leader, driving innovation, cutting red tape, and ushering in a new golden age of American prosperity and global peace, Mr Trump continued. A self-described tech nerd, Mr Wright studied engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and in 2011 founded Liberty, now a $2.8 billion company that is heavily involved in fracking for extracting shale gas. Mr Wright, whose compensation in 2021 was $4.6 million, has railed against cautious executives, saying he thinks that is a mistake in regards to climate issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They want to be respected business leaders. They dont want to be told theyre lying, or [that] theyre spreading misinformation, Mr Wright told the Wall Street Journal. I think we should speak more honestly, and less and less appeasement-oriented. Casting himself as a straight talker, Mr Wright has repeatedly called out a perceived lack of transparency among climate scientists and politicians. We want new energies, but lets just be honest, lets call them alternative energies or new energies, dont call them clean energy because theres no such thing as clean energy or dirty energy. All energy sources have different trade-offs, lets just be honest about that. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A progressive prison reform that was on the ballot in California and Nevada this month met drastically different outcomes after the votes were counted: In California, voters chose to keep the status quo, allowing "involuntary servitude" to remain legal in prisons. On the other side of the state line, Nevada voters overwhelmingly passed a measure to ban "slavery and involuntary servitude." These diverging results in two neighboring states raised questions about whether Nevada voters, a majority of whom supported Donald Trump's successful bid to return to the White House, are more liberal on criminal justice issues than voters in deep-blue California, where Vice President Kamala Harris won. Some have suggested that the failure of California's Proposition 6 reflects a rightward shift in the state, where voters passed Proposition 36, the tough-on-crime measure on the same ballot that will reverse course on progressive reforms they approved a decade earlier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But a closer examination of the prison measures in California and Nevada reveals two key differences that may explain the surprising outcome. The first came down to the word "slavery": Nevada's measure included the word, while California's did not. The second distinction was in the practical effect of the proposals: California's measure would have banned mandatory work for prisoners; but Nevada's ban is largely symbolic, leaving it up to the courts to decide whether it will mean any changes to prison labor. Luke Scott, pursuing a master's degree from state prison last year, is among inmates who advocates say could focus more on rehabilitation if involuntary servitude were banned in California. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times) "In California, slavery is abolished, but involuntary servitude isnt. There's been a lot of back-and-forth about this," said Dennis Febo, a lead organizer of the Abolish Slavery National Network, which is working to pass similar measures in several states. "It didnt hit California voters as an issue." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement California changed its Constitution in the 1970s to prohibit slavery. This year, Proposition 6 asked voters whether they wanted to further amend the Constitution to remove a "provision that allows jails and prisons to impose involuntary servitude to punish crime (i.e., forcing incarcerated persons to work)." Nevada's measure sought to remove both slavery and involuntary servitude as punishments for crimes in one fell swoop, since both terms were still in its constitution. The presence of the word "slavery" on the ballot likely alarmed Nevada voters who may not have known it was still legal in their state as a punishment for crime, said Jay Jordan, who led the Yes on Proposition 6 campaign. The California measure, he said, didn't create a similar sense of urgency or shock because it lacked the word "slavery." Advocates for Proposition 6 see forced labor in prisons as a vestige of slavery, and used the word in their campaign messages. Jordan said they asked California officials to describe the measure in the ballot summary with the phrase, "Slavery of any kind is prohibited." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "But they didn't put it in there," he said. "I dont know why." Read more: Prop. 6 supporters ask voters to end slavery in California. Isn't it already illegal? California Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta writes the titles and summaries of each measure that makes the ballot. In crafting them, his office considers several factors, including the complete text of the measure and how it would change existing law, a spokesperson said. Mentioning slavery in the Proposition 6 summary could have raised questions of accuracy, because California has long banned the practice as punishment for crimes. Involuntary servitude, however, is still in the Constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This whole thing is about language," said Febo. He pointed out that while both states wanted the same changes in language, Nevadas campaign was simple," and Californias ballot summary was less direct. Jordan said the California measure faced additional hurdles, including the short time supporters had to mount a campaign. The Legislature placed Proposition 6 on the ballot this summer amid intense negotiations led by the Legislative Black Caucus over a package of bills meant to address reparations. And the proposition landed on the ballot in a year when voters showed heightened concern about crime, passing Proposition 36 to enact tougher sentences for certain thefts and drug crimes, and ousting progressive prosecutors in Los Angeles and Alameda counties. In Nevada, the measure that became Question 4 on this year's ballot also came from the state Legislature. Assemblymember Howard Watts introduced the measure in 2021. Watts, a Democrat, said he was in part inspired by Ava DuVernay's 2016 documentary 13th, which explored how the U.S. Constitution abolished slavery in 1865 through the 13th Amendment but with a provision that allows slavery as criminal punishment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As other free states joined the union, several also enshrined this language into their constitutions. DuVernay and supportive lawmakers have argued that the phrase allowing slavery as a punishment for a crime permits prisons to force inmates to perform labor, many for as little as several cents an hour. In recent years, seven states have outlawed slavery and involuntary servitude in their constitutions, including Colorado in 2018, Utah and Nebraska in 2020, and Alabama, Oregon, Tennessee and Vermont in 2022. Louisiana voters rejected their state's 2022 measure. Prison workers in Louisiana, where voters rejected a similar constitutional amendment to outlaw slavery and involuntary servitude two years ago. (Gerald Herbert / Associated Press) The practical consequences of each measure can differ from state to state. In Tennessee, for example, state officials have said the ballot measure was written to remove outdated language without stopping the state from forcing prisoners to work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watts said the Nevada measure is largely "symbolic," but he "welcomes" people to push the interpretation further so it applies to prison labor. Whether it winds up forbidding mandatory work for prisoners will probably be determined in the courts. "My thought on it was to keep it simple," Watts said of the measure. "The more complicated you make it, the more difficult it is" for voters to understand. But in California, Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) went further by explicitly stating that the elimination of involuntary servitude would result in a voluntary work program for prisoners. This, she and advocates argued, would allow inmates to refuse a work assignment, choose their schedule, and have more time for rehabilitation, including therapy and schooling. The majority of California voters were not convinced that was the right way to go. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: California could end forced prison labor. Will lawmakers send this measure to the ballot? These are people who committed crimes and are being punished for those crimes, said Jeff Greeson, a prosecutor from Chico who voted against Proposition 6. "The tasks that many of them do that are involuntary are based on normal upkeep that anyone would do to maintain a facility. He said that labeling inmate labor as slavery would be an extraordinarily inappropriate use of language. Austin Yu, a voter from San Mateo, said he was 50-50 on the measure, but eventually decided to vote yes. Yu said he thinks additional work needs to be done in California to fix a legal system he considers biased against people of color. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think that if youre rightly imprisoned, you should have to work, he said. But Im pretty liberal, so the part that won out was to not disproportionately affect a population. Jordan, of the Yes on 6 campaign, remains hopeful that California will eventually go the same way Nevada did in passing its own ban. His grassroots campaign was driven by a corps of volunteers who had served time in prison. Engaging them in politics was a win, he said, even though the measure lost. "They said, We can do this again?'" he recounted. "And Im like, 'You can do it over and over. This is not the end.' Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Nov. 16A week-long fireworks convention which had proven to be a success in Newton back in 2022 will not be returning in 2025, even after representatives from the Pyrotechnics Guild International scouted the proposed site. Randy Ervin, chair of the PGI Newton Committee, is greatly disappointed it couldn't work out. While there is still a slight chance the town could host the convention, Ervin told Newton News that uncertainties with individuals who own the land needed to discharge the fireworks have stalled out any real progress. The event, he said, would have brought upwards of $3 million of economic impact to Jasper County. At the Nov. 4 city council meeting, a number of residents spoke out against the event. The council went on to approve a resolution allowing the use of city parks and land north of the cemetery for camping grounds and event space. However, the city properties would not be used to light off fireworks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was expected there would be backlash, and Ervin was upfront that the event would indeed be loud. Although he understood that noise was a big concern, to him the economic benefits it brought to the city far outweighed the loud booms residents would hear from afar for one week. Most of council felt the same way. While Ervin certainly wanted Newton to host another PGI event, apparently so did the PGI Board. When the board first approached the city about hosting it again, Ervin said he had spoken with the Iowa Speedway to host it once more, but it couldn't fit in to the racetrack's calendar. So, Ervin told PGI it couldn't work. But PGI Board members started calling Ervin and saying they really wanted to come back to Newton. It was a good time, they said, and the town was amazing. So the PGI Newton Committee scouted out locations and settled on some farmland north of the city's softball complex. It seemed like a good fit for PGI and it passed their measurements for fallout zones and noise zones. Initial discussions with the farmer who worked the land also boded well. Ervin was later met with some resistance from another party who manages the land, but made some headway after some discussion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ervin contacted the owner in Oklahoma who initially expressed they were not interested, but again he did make strides to possibly convince them of hosting the site. When Ervin revisited the land recently, he saw a home was being built near one of the major fallout areas. That proved to be an issue. Coupled with the undecided land owners and the PGI Board up against their own deadlines, Ervin told them at this time he could not make a firm commitment that the city could host the convention. Ervin said he feels horrible about it and feels like he failed the city. "I don't make a penny off this thing," he said. "I do it because I love the people of Newton. We chased away $3 million." When the 2022 PGI Convention was hosted at the Iowa Speedway, several restaurants and retailers reported massive sales. The week-long event was a major boon to the city. Ervin said when he spoke with the owners of Uncle Nancy's Coffee House it was their best week they ever had. "That's what hurts me the most," he said. "I was trying to do something really good for the city. And it just didn't work out." Territorial Army (TA) announced the successful culmination of its recent recruitment drive, held from November 11 to 17, in Baramulla, according to a statement. The event saw unprecedented participation and engagement from aspiring candidates across the region, who braved inclement weather on certain days to pursue their dreams of serving the nation, 161 Territorial Army (TA) said in the statement. The highly anticipated recruitment drive attracted a record number of applicants, demonstrating the immense interest and dedication of the youth towards serving the nation. The overwhelming response not only highlights the strong sense of patriotism among the candidates but also underscores the community's unwavering support for the armed forces and the positive development trajectory of Kashmir, it said. "We are immensely proud of the remarkable turnout and the exceptional talent displayed by our candidates," said Major General PS Punia, GOC, 19 Infantry Division at Baramulla. "This recruitment drive has been a testament to the dedication and passion of our youth towards serving their country. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this event," he added. According to the press statement, approximately twenty-three thousand young men from various backgrounds showcased their enthusiasm and commitment by attending the recruitment rally. Despite challenging weather conditions on some days, the candidates displayed remarkable resilience and dedication in their pursuit to join the Territorial Army. The complete recruitment drive was conducted in a fair and transparent manner, adhering to the highest standards of recruitment protocols. 161 Territorial Army, known for its discipline and commitment, ensured the entire process was smooth, fair and efficient. The local community played a vital role in supporting the event, providing facilities and resources to ensure a smooth and successful recruitment drive, it added. The participants thanked the Commanding Officer, 161 TA and expressed their gratitude towards the local administration which made the recruitment drive a grand success. 161 TA remains committed to upholding the values of integrity, honour, and excellence within the armed forces. The selected candidates will now undergo a written test to join the ranks of the esteemed Territorial Army, continuing the legacy of bravery and service to the nation, it said (ANI) By Felix Onuah ABUJA (Reuters) - Nigeria and India on Sunday agreed to deepen collaboration in maritime security, intelligence and counter-terrorism during a state visit to the West African country by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi is the first Indian premier to visit Nigeria in 17 years after an invitation by President Bola Tinubu, who is seeking investments from some of the world's biggest economies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Modi arrived in the capital Abuja on Saturday night and met Tinubu at the presidential villa on Sunday where the two leaders also discussed economic development, defence, healthcare and food security, a joint statement said. With growing threats in the Gulf of Guinea and the Indian Ocean, the two countries agreed to coordinated action to safeguard maritime trade routes and combat piracy. Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation, is seeking to woo more Indian investment and cheaper lines of credit to boost its economy and create jobs. On the sidelines of the G20 summit last year, Nigeria said it had secured nearly $14 billion of pledges from Indian investors, including Jindal Steel and Power which committed to pump $3 billion into Nigeria's steel sector. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are more than 200 Indian companies operating in Nigeria. After Nigeria, Modi was set to travel to Brazil to attend this year's G20 summit. (Writing by MacDonald Dzirutwe; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne) Nov. 16With a new administration taking over the White House in January, New Mexico's congressional delegation is calling upon the Biden administration to resolve the long-running litigation over Rio Grande water rights before the end of the year. In a letter to Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland and Attorney General Merrick Garland, the delegation, all Democrats, asks the DOI and DOJ to quickly resolve the Texas v. New Mexico and Colorado litigation in collaboration with the parties. The U.S. Supreme Court last summer nixed a proposed settlement reached between Texas and New Mexico and Colorado over the allocation of waters of the Rio Grande. Texas originally sued New Mexico in 2013, alleging farmers pumping groundwater in southern New Mexico were diverting water that had been allocated to Texas via the 1938 Rio Grande Compact. But the majority of the Supreme Court found that the federal government, which opposed the settlement, needed to consent to any deal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The states and federal government must go to mediation no later than Dec. 16 in Washington, D.C., to settle their disputes or risk going to trial in federal court. Any settlement could impact how groundwater is managed in the Rio Grande basin in New Mexico and West Texas, both for agriculture and in cities that pump water from aquifers, such as Albuquerque and Las Cruces. The letter to Haaland and Garland was signed by U.S. Sens. Martin Heinrich and Ben Ray Lujan and U.S. Reps. Gabe Vasquez, Melanie Stansbury and Teresa Leger Fernandez. "Over the last year, nearly every part of the state has experienced a period of drought. That means that more than 2.1 million New Mexicans and almost 44,000 businesses have had inconsistent or extremely limited access to water in the last year," the Nov. 14 letter stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In times of worsening drought and precipitation out of line with historical patterns, it is imperative that our communities, municipalities, farmers, ranchers, and businesses have as much clarity about their future water supplies as possible. A delayed resolution to the issues posed in the Supreme Court's decision in Texas v. New Mexico and Colorado imperils the ability of water users to prepare for more common and more extreme droughts in the Rio Grande Basin." The delegation's letter also noted that New Mexico has the lowest water-to-land ratio of all 50 states. "As of November 7, 2024, a majority of the state of New Mexico is experiencing some degree of abnormal dryness or drought," the letter said. "Communities in the Basin are constantly grappling with the unpredictability of water supplies due to long-term aridification. A speedy resolution will allow for all parties to move forward and pursue water use practices that best serve their people." Nazzareno Venanzi is unconcerned by the blanket of thick fog and the chilly wind whistling across the mountains in Italys central Marche region. The 85-year-old building surveyor has just driven 14 miles (22 km) up a winding road from his home in the medieval town of Sarnano, Macerata to a place he would rather forget. He has come to the edge of dense woodland in the Sibillini Mountains for the first time in 40 years to reveal the location of one of Italys enduring mysteries. Fiastra, Marche, near the area where the bodies of Jeannette May and Gabriella Guerin were found in January 1982 This is where the bones were found, says Mr Venanzi, staring down a steep gully through a kaleidoscope of brilliant autumn foliage. Just down there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A roadside memorial marks the spot where Jeanette Bishop May, the 41-year-old once married to Sir Evelyn de Rothschild from the international banking dynasty, was found with her secretary, Gabriella Guerin, long after they disappeared in a snowstorm on November 29 1980. Theres no explanation for why they went into the mountains that day or why they came here, Mr Venanzi adds as he photographed the memorial. Its a mystery. Nazzareno Venanzi at the memorial for the two women - Chris Warde-Jones for The Telegraph For the next four decades, speculation has swirled around what happened to the British socialite and her 39-year-old Italian companion. Conspiracy theories have flourished about possible links to the mafia, a Rome art theft, a Brazilian gem dealer and the death of a Vatican banker in London. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Initially police determined the death of the women was an accident and the cause was hypothermia. Subsequent investigations were hampered by conflicting testimony and inconclusive forensic evidence; an open verdict was finally declared in 1989 saying they were victims of a double murder by unknown perpetrators. But questions continued to be raised about whether they were victims of misfortune or malevolence. Now Italian authorities have launched a fresh inquiry into the cold case and announced it is a murder investigation. Mr Venanzi was one of a dozen witnesses summoned by police and prosecutors for interrogation last week, as he was one of the last people to see the two victims alive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He had met both women in Sarnano on the day they disappeared because Mrs May had seen a gate that she wanted to replicate for the cottage she had bought just outside the town. They shared an aperitivo at the surveyors home with him and his wife before lunch. Theres no explanation for why they went into the mountains that day or why they came here says Venazzi, one of the last people to see Jeannette May alive - Chris Warde-Jones for The Telegraph She asked me if I could go to the mountains with her, Mr Venanzi remembers. I told her I couldnt because I had too many deadlines. From that moment on, we knew nothing more. When I learnt they did not return to their hotel, I was worried and notified the police. Mrs May missed a scheduled appointment with the previous owner of her home in the early afternoon that Saturday. Instead she and her secretary drove up the mountain and stopped at the Hotel Sibilla Parco, where the owner, Ortelio Valori, now 82, served them refreshments. By now it was around 4 p.m. and already getting dark. I saw a car outside, a man waiting for them in a car, Mr Valori says. A key witness in this case, he also testified before police and prosecutors this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But what happened to the women after they left the hotel is still unclear. Police feared the women had been kidnapped when their Peugeot 104 sedan was found three weeks after their disappearance, showing no mechanical faults or sign of forced entry, eight miles up the mountain from Sarnano. Investigators found a scarf and other belongings in the car but were baffled when a ransom demand never arrived. The story captured the interest of Italian and English media - Chris Warde-Jones for The Telegraph Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were also signs the women had sought refuge from the snowstorm in an abandoned farm house nearby, where burnt firewood and dirty plates had been left behind. Media reports at the time suggested a mans fingerprints had been found inside their Peugeot. Despite a massive search involving 500 police supported by helicopters and dog squads, it would be another 14 months before hunters discovered the womens corpses in woodland near Lake Fiastra in January 1982. Ravaged by wild boars and wolves, their skeletal remains were found lying side by side in the woods nearly eight miles (12 km) from where they had left their vehicle. Dubbed the murder mystery of the century, the case provoked a media frenzy in the UK and Italy. Scotland Yard detectives joined the investigation as newspaper headlines screamed of foul play and experts theorised about whether it was the perfect crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now local residents are once again wondering what led the women to drive up a mountain on a day when there was already light snow on the mountains and dark clouds were closing in. No-one around here ever thought it was an accident or misfortune, says Roberta, a barista in a cafe in the tiny town of Fiastra. After 40 years, there is something else, something is unclear. Corrado Ermini lives in a hamlet on the opposite side of Lake Fiastra a few miles from where the bodies were found Now 82, he was one of the three local hunters who discovered the womens bones while he and his friends were on the hunt for wild boar just two weeks after Mrs Mays second husband, Stephen, offered a reward for any news. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Ermini is still haunted by what he saw that day. It was really shocking, he recalls, in an interview at his home. I saw the bodies laid out on the grass, they had been there a long time. It was as if they had been laid on the earth in a position of repose. Corrado Ermini was one of the first people to find the remains of Jeannette May - Chris Warde-Jones for The Telegraph Mrs May was found wearing a Cartier bracelet that her husband had given her as a gift, and the womens identity papers were inside the handbags found beside the bodies. But little else remained. They were still in their clothes, but you couldnt recognise them, Mr Ermini says. I found a detached boot with the remains of a tibia bone inside, you could see a little flesh but most of it had been taken away. Who knows what happened to them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week the silver-haired hunter was asked to share his memories with a new generation of investigators. Im surprised that this is happening after all these years, everyone is surprised, he adds. Colonel Raffaele Ruocco, the newly appointed provincial commander of the Carabinieri police in Macerata, believes a review of the cold case had suggested there were aspects worthy of further inquiry. Unlike previous investigations, he stressed the focus was local. We want to gain further information and insights, conduct analysis and hear from witnesses to determine whether there is enough evidence to continue with criminal proceedings, he says. We want to hear from those who may have seen something, those who stayed at the hotel where the women stayed, hunters, railway workers, and road maintenance workers. The memorial established by Jeannettes husband, Stephen May - Chris Warde-Jones for The Telegraph The regional chief prosecutor, Giovanni Fabrizio Narbone, confirmed a double murder investigation was underway. As many of the key witnesses are now elderly, he said time was running out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are working in the hope of getting a result, he told Italian media. We thought this could be the last chance to try and get to the truth. Jeannette Bishop May was a newcomer to the Marche, and probably knew little about the unpredictable mountain landscape where sunny clouds can suddenly dissolve into ominous grey clouds and dense fog. Snowstorms can isolate communities for days in the winter and earthquakes are common. Born in London, the British woman had a successful modelling career, before marrying Sir Evelyn De Rothschild, the prominent banker who served as financial advisor to the late Queen Elizabeth II. After her divorce she started an antique business before marrying her second husband, Stephen May, in 1977. Known for her elegance and ease, Mrs May seemed to charm everyone she met in Sarnano while continuing to mix with designers and art dealers in the international jet-set in London and Rome. British writer Raymond Flower, and Gianni Bulgari, from the wealthy jewellery dynasty, were reportedly amongst her friends. General Corsetti was one of the two investigators in charge of the case and is adamant the two women were killed - Chris Warde-Jones for The Telegraph Days after the womens disappearance, investigators began looking at Mrs Mays connections to the art world when a telegram was delivered to her hotel in her name with a Rome address linked to a jewellery robbery at Christies in Piazza Navona. At the same time, Scotland Yard was looking into the death of Sergio Vaccari, a Roman antique dealer, who was stabbed to death in Holland Park in September 1982. Bishop mixed in the same circles as Vaccari who reportedly had connections to Roberto Calvi, nicknamed Gods Banker because of his close association with the Vatican, who was murdered in London the same year he was killed. Retired police investigators, General Carlo Felice Corsetti and General Giacomo Battaglia, spent several years trying to unravel what happened to Mrs May and her secretary during the 1980s, but today they remain divided about the cause of their deaths. General Battaglia believes the snowstorm was responsible, while General Corsetti is adamant they were killed. Ive never been convinced that it was an accident and I hope they can solve the case, General Corsetti says, speaking in Rome. I was really thrilled to hear the news that the cold case had been reopened. General Corsetti, now aged 77, travelled to Innsbruck, Zurich, London and even Brazil to pursue various leads in the case without ever solving the mystery. The two officers also conferred with Scotland Yard to see if any of their lines of inquiry merged. I invested a lot of time in this case, several years, he adds. At a certain point, our inquiries concentrated on a gemologist, Jose Rodriquez May. He looked like the man who was seen speaking animatedly to Mrs May on the afternoon of the disappearance. We arrested him but he was released and everything ended there. Mayor Fabio Fantegrossi says the deaths have had a lasting impact on the towns residents - Chris Warde-Jones for The Telegraph In Sarnano speculation continues about what happened that fateful day in November 1980. Fabio Fantegrossi, the 36-year-old mayor of Sarnano, was born long after the case made international headlines and put his tiny town on the map. He said its had a lasting impact on the 3,000 inhabitants who live there. As a child, my parents used to tell me to avoid the mountains if it snowed or I would end up like Lady De Rothschild, he says. Whether someone killed them, or they died from the cold, this mystery has almost become a local legend because it is 44 years old and still no-one really knows what happened. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. We cant plead ignorance We knew his character. We voted for Trump knowing his character. We knew of his lies, his felony convictions and countless other criminal charges. We knew of his references to suckers and losers directed toward those who had served and died for our country. The list continues. But the list no longer matters. We knew his character and we embraced it. Authoritarians rejoice, especially Putin, knowing the ease in manipulating a fellow narcissist whose primary concern is for self. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our allies are fearful, knowing the dangerous path when alliances crumble. Trump has dark talents seen before in dictators. It is no comfort that their fate never ends well as neither does the fate of the nation they rule. We knew his character. We knew who he was by listening to him and watching him. We knew his lack of empathy and lust for power. And we recall his words which ring ominously true when he told us that even if he shot someone in the middle of New York City that we would continue to follow him. It was a single tragic truth among thousands of lies. We knew his character. And it did not matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bob Fontaine, Eagle Hold men responsible for unwanted pregnancies Doctor shortage is because of the laws Brad Little and the Legislature promote which interfere with care for Idaho women restricting the care doctors can give. Doctors personally told me Idaho politics is a major factor in why doctors do not come to Idaho. Politicians obviously do not care about the doctors oath. By all that I hold highest, I promise my patients competence, integrity, candor, personal commitment to their best interest, compassion, and absolute discretion, and confidentiality within the law. Women of all ages are at risk because of the shortage of OB/GYNs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The root cause of the problem is the male. He is one who is usually the sexual aggressor he did not wear a condom without his sexual act, no unwanted pregnancy. Politicians put harsh penalties on only women and doctors. Penalties should be on the man. Require him to pay $10,000 fine to help pay for the care of women during pregnancy. Or, issue jail time. That should reduce unwanted pregnancies. As it stands, the man is not penalized at all and can go on to create more unwanted pregnancies. Cherry Woodbury, Meridian Costs of space tourism The owner of SpaceX donated at least $119 million to the successful Republican ticket. The reasoning was it might be better to have an anti-environment president who wont clamp down on frivolous space flights. According to Cosmos magazine, As a ballpark, one researcher has suggested that per person, a space tourism flight is 50-100 times worse for the atmosphere than a long-distance plane flight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration website, Like other greenhouse gases, CO2 acts like a blanket in the atmosphere, preventing heat radiating off the planets surface from escaping into space. And according to New Scientist, The worst case scenario would be that overshooting triggers a tipping point such as the collapse of the West Antarctic ice sheet or the drying up of the Amazon, which will be impossible to reverse for many millennia. Will future generations wonder why their ancestors from 2024 voted for drill drill drill instead of fighting for a sustainable environment for future generations. Sidney Asker, Boise Dont beg Washington for help again I see one of your health districts has voted to end its COVID-19 vaccine program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The last time we went through this nonsense with you Harborview Hospital (Seattle), which King County taxpayers ponied up $1 billion to upgrade and renovate, was overrun with Idaho nitwit anti-vax-era demanding treatment at Harborview a regional trauma treatment center. I have this day sent a letter to newly elected Gov. Ferguson and my state legislators asking that soon legislation be passed and signed into law prohibiting the treatment of COVID-related illness in all Idahoans seeking treatment who cannot or will not produce an up-to-date COVID vaccination card. We paid for this hospital, Idaho. See to yourselves. Randal McChesney, Bellevue, Washington A nation of xenophobes Give me your tired, your poor, Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free... Send these, the homeless, tempest tossed to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door! Emma Lazarus This poem is inscribed on the Statue of Liberty. Unfortunately, since MAGA voters elected Trump to the presidency this invitation to immigrants is no longer true. As Trump, who referred to immigrants as criminals, rapists and mentally ill, begins to enact Project 2025, which he claims no knowledge of, ten million undocumented immigrants will be deported. Some will be torn from their families and many will be sent to deportation camps. Per Project 2025, birth-right will end, chain migration (Melanias parents) will cease and extended surveillance and racial profiling will be common. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Trump chooses his cabinet, Project 2025 will require that his chosen people pledge loyalty to an extremist agenda. Over 20,000 supporters will be recruited while over 50,000 career civil servants in Washington D.C. will be purged. Trump, following Project 2025, will abolish the Department of Education, end ACA and repeal environmental regulations. MAGA voters, you sold your souls for lower prices. America will suffer the consequences of your decision. Rhonda G Anderson, Boise Why Harris lost Why did Harris lose the election? Its really very simple: Americans are fed up with ridiculous liberal, woke policies being shoved down their throats, the anti-American, DEI (anti-merit) indoctrination infecting schools and colleges, the rank abuse and politicization of every government agency to demonize and attack conservatives, the constant race-baiting and divisive rhetoric from the left, and, most importantly, the continuing utter failures and damage to our country caused by liberal, woke policies. Daniel Bergey, Boise Democrats and veterans groups are taking aim at Trump Defense secretary nominee Pete Hegseths belief that women should not serve in combat roles, with at least two crucial GOP senators also asking for answers on his stance. Hegseth, 44, a Fox News host, has often made questionable comments on the military matters hed oversee should he be confirmed as Pentagon chief. But his assertions last week have elicited fears that Hegseths views could have a chilling effect on women wanting to serve or alienate those currently in uniform. Im straight up just saying that we should not have women in combat roles, Hegseth said on The Shawn Ryan Show podcast. It hasnt made us more effective, hasnt made us more lethal, has made fighting more complicated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added: Weve all served with women, and theyre great. But our institutions dont have to incentivize that in places where, traditionally not traditionally, over human history men in those positions are more capable. The comments quickly were picked up after Trumps surprise announcement choosing Hegseth on Tuesday, with combat veteran Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) telling reporters she wanted clarification on his stance. Even a staff member of mine, she is an infantry officer . . . she is a tough woman, so he is going to have to explain it, said Ernst, top Republican on the Senate Armed Services emerging threats subcommittee. A spokesperson from Ernsts office later told The Hill that she looks forward to visiting with Hegseth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Incoming Senate Armed Services Committee Chair Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) also said he wants to learn more about Hegseths position. Weve gotten to the point where women are involved in almost every part of military service, he told Politico, adding that he would look into exactly what [Hegseths] point of view is. But Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), an Iraq war veteran and Purple Heart recipient, had far more pointed words: Where do you think I lost my legs? Duckworth said on CNN Wednesday. Duckworth, who was one of the first women to fly combat missions as an Army helicopter pilot, lost both her legs and some mobility in her right arm after her aircraft was hit by a grenade in 2004. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Look, hes not qualified to serve as Secretary of Defense, and obviously, hes made these comments about how he doesnt think women should be in combat. . . . I ask him, how does that strengthen our nations military? She added: We cant go to war today without our women military members, she said, noting there are more than 225,000 active-duty women serving in the military right now. The Trump transition team didnt respond to requests for comment about Hegseths remarks about women in combat. Women have been in combat roles for the better part of three decades beginning in 1991 and 1993, when Congress repealed the law barring women from combat aircraft and ships, respectively. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That was followed by the Navy in 2010 reversing its policy banning women from submarines, and the 2013 repeal of the Combat Exclusion Policy, allowing women to serve in ground combat units. A few years later in 2015, former Defense Secretary Ash Carter opened all military combat positions to female service members. Such progress has allowed women to fill about 220,000 jobs previously off-limits to them, such as special operations, infantry, armor, and reconnaissance units. Today, women account for about 17.5 percent of the militarys active-duty force, according to 2022 data from the Defense Department. Hegseth a decorated veteran who served as an Army National Guard infantry officer with tours in Afghanistan and Iraq and at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba in the past has accused the military of lowering standards for women to enter combat jobs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Women shouldnt be in combat at all, Hegseth said in a June interview with conservative commentator Ben Shapiro. Theyre life-givers, not life-takers. I know a lot of wonderful soldiers, female soldiers, who have served, who are great. But they shouldnt be in my infantry battalion. In his remarks last week, Hegseth also suggested that allowing women to fight has led to more casualties on the battlefield. Everything about men and women serving together makes the situation more complicated, and complication in combat, that means casualties are worse, Hegseth said. The comments drew the ire of veterans organizations and Democrat lawmakers, who argued women have competed and succeeded on the same playing field as their male counterparts. They also worried Hegseths views, should he be confirmed, would have a negative effect on women looking to join the armed forces at a time when the military has struggled with recruitment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Allison Jaslow, the chief executive of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America who deployed to Iraq in 2004 as a platoon leader, believes the women in combat have proven tougher than many of their male counterparts. Need proof? Look at the women whove graduated from Ranger School, which is so grueling that around half of the men who enter it fail out, she said in a statement to The Hill. Those women deserve a Secretary of Defense who is aware of that reality and also ensures that the culture in the military embraces that reality especially as we still continue to confront a recruitment crisis. Joanna JoJo Sweatt, a Marine Corps veteran and the national organizing director for Common Defense, a progressive veterans group, said the organizations womens veteran caucus had been discussing Hegseths expected nomination with frustration. His on-record dismissal of diversity initiatives and resistance to acknowledging the contributions of women and LGBTQ service members signals a dangerous regression to a culture that undervalues and undermines our voices, service, and sacrifices, she said. Hegseths stance disregards the progress made toward a more inclusive military that reflects the diversity of the country it defends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sweatt, who joined the service in 1997 as female Marines were being infused into combat support roles, was a radio operator and deployed to Iraq in 2003. She said one member pointed out that the question of women in combat is a completely different can of worms, as weve always served in combat, its just that our stories were never told. Many were behind enemy lines or on the front providing a variety of direct support and many posing as men firing on the front lines. Current House Armed Services Committee Chair Adam Smith said Hegseths appointment would be a step background. Every person who puts on the uniform deserves respect, gratitude, and a fair chance to serve. Trumps appointment of Pete Hegseth is a step backward. Ill stand up against any attempt to deny respect or restrict the right to serve based on gender, Smith wrote on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hegseth could face a tough path to confirmation, as Republicans will hold only a slim majority in the Senate and his past comments and relatively untested status may serve as obstacles. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) Democrats fell short again in wresting away swing-state prize North Carolina from Republicans in the presidential election, but scored significant downballot victories, giving them hope as they look to the future. Despite Donald Trump's more than 3-percentage point win over Vice President Kamala Harris in North Carolina, Democrats celebrated Election Day victories in races for governor, attorney general and the legislature in a closely divided state where conservatives have recently dominated the General Assembly and the courts. In an election with few bright spots for Democrats nationally, the ticket-splitting tendencies of Tar Heel state voters offered some of that good news. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think we had quality candidates running for office against right-wing extremists, and the people of North Carolina made the right choices, said Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper, a Harris surrogate who was once considered her potential running mate, of the downballot races. Attorney General Josh Stein, a Democrat, easily defeated Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson to succeed Cooper, who was ineligible to run again because of term limits. The campaign was dominated by Steins fundraising prowess and by ads and social media targeting Robinsons history of inflammatory statements on issues such as abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. Democrats have now won eight of the past nine gubernatorial elections in North Carolina. In contrast, Republicans have won the state in 11 of the 12 past presidential elections, with Barack Obama in 2008 the lone exception. In the race to succeed Stein as attorney general, U.S. Rep. Jeff Jackson extended a Democratic election winning streak from 1900 by defeating U.S. Rep. Dan Bishop. Democrats flipped both the lieutenant governors office and the state school superintendents job defeating, in the latter race, a Republican who attended the Jan. 6, 2021, rally in Washington before the attack on the U.S. Capitol and who called public schools liberal indoctrination centers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Democratic Party Chair Anderson Clayton, the youngest in the country at 26, is learning to embrace the positives while coping with the headwinds Harris faced at the top of the ticket. Everybody keeps calling us a bright spot," she said. And Im like, We still lost the presidential race. State Republicans can hang their hats for 2024 success on Trumps third consecutive electoral victory and the pickup of three additional congressional seats the result of 2023 redistricting that led Democratic incumbents not to seek reelection. Those flips were key to national Republicans' efforts to maintain U.S. House control. But in the state's lone toss-up congressional race, first-term Democratic Rep. Don Davis won narrowly. While the GOP retained a veto-proof majority in the state Senate, it will likely fall short of keeping one in the House by a single seat, giving Stein a more robust veto stamp to turn back Republican legislation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ticket-splitting in North Carolina has gone on for decades. Voters have long been comfortable with Democrats running state agencies but less at ease with the liberal wing of the national Democratic Party. People are unhappy and want to see change at the federal level. Theyre not quite as comfortable with that idea of change for changes sake at the state level, said David McLennan, a political science professor at Meredith College in Raleigh. State Republican leaders say their party still is doing well. They point to winning five of the 10 statewide executive branch positions, retaining General Assembly control and continuing recent dominance in statewide appellate court races. A pending state Supreme Court race, however, seems likely to go to a recount. Theres going to be a lot of talk about North Carolina being a purple state. Youve all heard me say this before: North Carolina is a default Republican state," state Senate leader Phil Berger told reporters after the election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, 2024 will be marked by missed GOP opportunities that some critics place at Robinson's feet. What was billed after the March primaries as the nation's most competitive gubernatorial race never materialized; Stein won by almost 15 percentage points. Robinson's bid was overwhelmed by Stein's 4-to-1 spending advantage through mid-October and a CNN report that said Robinson posted graphic sexual and racist statements on a porn website message board more than a decade ago. Robinson denied writing the messages and ultimately sued CNN. The case is pending. But the Republican Governors Association stopped running ads supporting him, most of his campaign staff quit and Republicans distanced themselves. That included Trump, who had endorsed Robinson before the March primaries and called him Martin Luther King on steroids" but stopped appearing with him when Trump passed through North Carolina. Stein's campaign was comfortable enough to send $12 million late to the state Democratic Party that helped other candidates, including General Assembly hopefuls who ran advertisements linking GOP rivals to Robinson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It could have been a historic race for the state of North Carolina, but it didnt happen," state House Majority Leader John Bell said in an interview. While giving credit to Stein for his campaign, Bell added, our gubernatorial candidate ran a very poor campaign. Larry Shaheen, a longtime political consultant who is now a state Republican Party fundraiser, wrote on X that without the work of party leaders the damage to candidates due to Robinson would have been huge. Some conservatives stuck with Robinson and blamed Republican officials who gave up on him for some poor electoral results. Robinson himself complained during the campaign about politicians on his side of the aisle that when it gets hot in the kitchen and you turn around and look, theyre not there anymore. The next major electoral test comes in 2026, when GOP U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis' seat is up for reelection. Robinson hasnt ruled out a future bid, which could include challenging Tillis in a primary. Among Democrats, Cooper hasnt publicly rejected a 2026 Senate bid, and outgoing U.S. Rep. Wiley Nickel, a Democrat, has said he was also considering one. Democrats havent won a U.S. Senate seat in North Carolina since 2008. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, McLennan said, Democrats gave themselves something to build on. Democrats have to feel pretty good," he said. But they've still got a lot of work to do for 2026 and 2028. Clayton, the Democratic chair, said the work starts now. That means recruiting candidates, starting with next year's municipal races, making sure incumbents have the help they need, and checking in with people across the state to lay the groundwork for future elections. We got to get back to basics," she said. Mooresville Mayor Chris Carney thanked the community for its support after he took a several-week leave of absence to be with his dying father. Robert Joseph Carney Sr. of Hickory died Tuesday, Chris Carney said that night on Facebook. He was 77 and had been in hospice care. Thanks to the love shared by so many of you over the past few weeks, I was able to take a little breather from work to spend as much quality time as possible with my dad and our family, Chris Carney said on Facebook. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It meant so much to me that you all understood and supported my need for time, but it means even more to me now, Carney said. His dad spent the past few weeks surrounded by all of us who loved him so much and valued him and his influence in our lives, Chris Carney, a former state senator and Mooresville town commissioner, said in his social media post. Building final memories with dad Carney included family photos with his post. Chris Carneys brother, Robert Carney, is a Cornelius town commissioner. The mayor took his medical leave of absence in October, after the death of a close family friend and his father being placed in hospice care, Mooresville commissioner and mayor pro tem Eddie Dingler said at a Board of Commissioners meeting, The Charlotte Observer previously reported . Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thank you all again, from the bottom of my heart, for graciously and patiently giving me the past few weeks to build final memories of and with my dad, Chris Carney wrote in his Facebook post on Tuesday. Bone marrow donation saved his sisters life Robert Carney Sr. was an active member of the Knights of Columbus service organization at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Hickory and later joined Christ Church in Mountain View, according to his obituary. An avid flashlight and pocket knife collector and a lover of telling jokes, Bob also enjoyed watching movies and spoiling his grandchildren with milkshakes, his family wrote in his obituary. A private service is scheduled for 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at Cavin-Cook Funeral Home in Mooresville. A public reception will follow the service from 2 to 4 p.m. at Cavin-Cook, 494 E. Plaza Drive. Robert Carney Sr. was an avid blood donor who also donated his bone marrow to save the life of his sister, Penny, his family said. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that blood or monetary donations be made to the American Red Cross at www.redcross.org. North Korea could send up to 100,000 troops to support Russia's war in Ukraine. Source: Bloomberg, citing sources familiar with estimates made by some of the G20 countries Details: According to one source, North Korea might send up to 100,000 troops to back Russia's war in Ukraine if the alliance between Pyongyang and Moscow strengthens. Reports say this is one of several analyses focusing on the alliance between Russian leader Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sources emphasised that such a step is not unavoidable, and that if it occurs, military support of this magnitude will most likely be provided by groups with rotation of troops over time, rather than within the framework of a single deployment. The publication quotes Ukraine's Ambassador to South Korea, Dmytro Ponomarenko, who stated in early November that up to 15,000 North Korean troops fighting in Russia's Kursk Oblast and possibly in the occupied areas of Ukraine's east will be rotated every few months. According to Bloomberg, numerous allies will discuss the problem of cooperation between the DPRK and Russia during the G20 summit in Brazil this week, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. German authorities say Scholz would press the Chinese leader at their meeting in Rio on Tuesday to use his influence with Russia and North Korea to prevent further escalation of the war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On 10 November, The New York Times claimed that 50,000 Russian and North Korean soldiers were preparing to launch a large-scale counteroffensive in Russias Kursk Oblast. The publication also quoted a senior Ukrainian official as saying that, according to Ukrainian intelligence, North Korea may send up to 100,000 troops to aid Russia. Background: On 7 November, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that North Korean soldiers fighting alongside Russian forces in Kursk Oblast, Russia, have already suffered losses. A record number of North Korean citizens arrived in Russia in the third quarter of 2024, citing "training" as their reason for travel amid reports of North Korean troops being deployed to participate in the war against Ukraine. Later, two US officials confirmed that North Korean troops were involved in combat operations in Russia's Kursk Oblast for the first time. South Korean intelligence also said that North Korean soldiers, who were previously sent to Russia, are now in Kursk Oblast and are "already engaging in combat" operations against Ukraine. The Financial Times reported that North Korea had sent Russia around 50 M1989 Koksan self-propelled howitzers and 20 multiple-launch rocket systems, some of which have been deployed to Kursk Oblast. Support UP or become our patron! By Hyonhee Shin SEOUL (Reuters) -North Korean leader Kim Jong Un urged the country's military to improve capabilities for fighting a war in a speech last week, state media KCNA said on Monday, after Pyongyang dispatched thousands of troops to Russia. Kim delivered the speech to a conference of battalion commanders and political instructors held in Pyongyang on Friday, during which he called for building political and military strength and fighting efficiency to ensure that the armed forces can cope with a war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Threats from the United States and its allies including South Korea and their military confrontation with North Korea have brought tension to "the worst phase in history," he said, calling the Korean peninsula "the world's biggest hotspot." "He ardently called upon all the participants to go all out for bringing about substantial and fundamental improvement in improving their capabilities for fighting an actual war," KCNA said. The report came amid international criticism over rapidly developing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia. Washington, Seoul and Kyiv have said there are more than 10,000 North Korean soldiers in Russia to support its war against Ukraine, and some of them have engaged in combat in Kursk, near the Ukraine border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KCNA said a workshop was given for military officers over the weekend as part of the conference, which was aimed at strengthening the battalions, bolstering their fighting efficiency and "rounding off war preparations as required by the prevailing situation and modern warfare." In a separate dispatch, KCNA said a Russian delegation led by National Resources and Ecology Minister Alexander Kozlov arrived in Pyongyang on Sunday for trade and economy talks. Last week, Kim guided a test of suicide drones and ordered their mass production, citing an intensifying competition for adopting such weapons around the world. U.S. President Joe Biden, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba condemned North Korea and Russia's decision to "dangerously expand" the Ukraine war as they held a summit on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in Peru. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden's administration has allowed Ukraine to use U.S.-made weapons to strike deep into Russia, sources told Reuters, marking a significant policy reversal and a response to Russia's deployment of North Korean ground troops. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has said that North Korean troops had suffered casualties in combat with his country's forces, and the first battles between them "open a new page in instability." (Reporting by Hyonhee Shin; Editing by Cynthia Osterman and Diane Craft) Corrected: Previous headline said that Norway condemns latest attack on Russia. We apologise to our readers for this error. Norway's Foreign Minister, Espen Barth Eide, denounced Russia's major attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Source: Espen Barth Eide on Twitter (X), as reported by European Pravda Details: According to him, Norway continues to support Ukraine by providing arms and aid in the fight against Russian aggression. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "As temperatures drop and Ukraine nears 1,000 days of war, Russia launched massive air strikes against civilians, seemingly targeting energy infrastructure. Norway condemns this illegal war and continues to stand with Ukraine, providing arms and support against Russias aggression," the Norwegian foreign minister wrote. As temperatures drop and Ukraine nears 1000 days of war, Russia launched massive air strikes against civilians, seemingly targeting energy infrastructure. Norway condemns this illegal war and continues to #StandWithUkraine, providing arms and support against Russias aggression. Espen Barth Eide (@EspenBarthEide) November 17, 2024 Moldovan President Maia Sandu also strongly condemned Russia's latest large-scale attack on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stressed that Russia's latest large-scale missile attack on Ukraine is war criminal Vladimir Putin's response to those who have called or visited him recently. Support UP or become our patron! An alleged sharpshooter of the Neeraj Bawania gang who was involved in double murder in Delhi's Subhash Place area in 2014, was arrested from Sonepat in Haryana, police said on Sunday. The accused has been identified as Raghu alias Amarjeet (35), a proclaimed offender (PO) in the case, they said. Amarjeet, resident of Murthal's Hassanpur village in Sonepat, was absconding court proceedings in the double murder gang war shootout case of Police Station Subhash Place, police said. Police got a tip-off that Amarjeet, an active sharpshooter of the Neeraj Bawania gang, could be traced in Sonepat. Delhi Police's Crime Branch laid a trap near a wineshop at Hassanpur, Sonepat and apprehended him. During sustained interrogation, he confessed his involvement in the present case and several other cases of Police station Murthal, Sonepat and thus was arrested vide 41.1C and produced before the court concerned, police said. According to police, on August 24, 2014, residents of one of the posh localities of the Delhi, Subhash Place got chills with the sensational double murder in a gangwar between Neeraj Bawania Gang and Neetu Dabodia wherein multiple rounds were fired from both sides. A case u/s 302/307/120B/34 IPC & 25/27 Arms Act was registered and shooters Raghu alias Amarjeet, Parvesh Mann, Naveen, Naveen Sehrawat, Pradeep alias Kitty, Pankaj, Monu, Ashok and Sunny were arrested for their involvement in the said incident. Amarjeet evaded the court proceedings and Rohini Court declared him proclaimed offender in February 2019 for evading court proceedings in the case. He didn't refrain from criminal activities and was again found involved in cases of attempt to murder etc., in Delhi NCR, police said. As per directions of Senior Officers, activities of gang members especially shooters of active gangs in Delhi-NCR were being monitored continuously. The team of NR-II, zeroed down gang members who had criminal involvement in firing incidents and are still active in the field of crime and put them under surveillance, police said. Amarjeet disclosed that he studied up to tenth class and started working as a farmer with his family members. In the year 2009, he committed his first murder due to an old enmity in his native village, Hassanpur. He got arrested and was lodged in Sonepat Jail where he met Naveen alias Bali and other members of Neeraj Bawania Gang and joined hands with them. Amarjeet came out of the jail in 2013 and worked in tandem with famous gang members of Neeraj Bawania Gang and got involved in several murders, attempt to murder, dacoity, carjacking, robbery, burglary and under the Arms Act. He is still an active gangster who also has recent criminal history in cases of Police Station Murthal, Sonepat, police added. (ANI) A photo illustration by Oona Zenda of KFF Health News. ST. LOUIS Inside the more than 600 Catholic hospitals across the country, not a single nun can be found occupying a chief executive suite, according to the Catholic Health Association. Nuns founded and led those hospitals in a mission to treat sick and poor people, but some were also shrewd business leaders. Sister Irene Kraus, a former chief executive of Daughters of Charity National Health System, was famous for coining the phrase no margin, no mission. It means hospitals must succeed generating enough revenue to exceed expenses to fulfill their original mission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Catholic Church still governs the care that can be delivered to millions in those hospitals each year, using religious directives to ban abortions and limit contraceptives, in vitro fertilization, and medical aid in dying. But over time, that focus on margins led the hospitals to transform into behemoths that operate for-profit subsidiaries and pay their executives millions, according to hospital tax filings. These institutions, some of which are for-profit companies, now look more like other megacorporations than like the charities for the destitute of yesteryear. The absence of nuns in the top roles raises the question, said M. Therese Lysaught, a Catholic moral theologist and professor at Loyola University Chicago: What does it mean to be a Catholic hospital when the enterprise has been so deeply commodified? The St. Louis area serves as the de facto capital of Catholic hospital systems. Three of the largest are headquartered here, along with the Catholic hospital lobbying arm. Catholicism is deeply rooted in the regions culture. During Pope John Paul IIs only U.S. stop in 1999, he led Mass downtown in a packed stadium of more than 100,000 people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For a quarter century, Sister Mary Jean Ryan led SSM Health, one of those giant systems centered on St. Louis. Now retired, the 86-year-old said she was one of the last nuns in the nation to lead a Catholic hospital system. Ryan grew up Catholic in Wisconsin and joined a convent while in nursing school in the 1960s, surprising her family. She admired the nuns she worked alongside and felt they were living out a higher purpose. They were very impressive, she said. Not that I necessarily liked all of them. Indeed, the nuns running hospitals defied the simplistic image often ascribed to them, wrote John Fialka in his book Sisters: Catholic Nuns and the Making of America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their contributions to American culture are not small, he wrote. Ambitious women who had the skills and the stamina to build and run large institutions found the convent to be the first and, for a long time, the only outlet for their talents. This was certainly true for Ryan, who climbed the ranks, working her way from nurse to chief executive of SSM Health, which today has hospitals in Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Wisconsin. The system was founded more than a century ago when five German nuns arrived in St. Louis with $5. Smallpox swept through the city and the Sisters of St. Mary walked the streets offering free care to the sick. Their early foray grew into one of the largest Catholic health systems in the country, with annual revenue exceeding $10 billion, according to its 2023 audited financial report. SSM Health treats patients in 23 hospitals and co-owns a for-profit pharmacy benefit manager, Navitus, that coordinates prescriptions for 14 million people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Ryan, like many nuns in leadership roles in recent decades, found herself confronted with an existential crisis. As fewer women became nuns, she had to ensure the systems future without them. When Ron Levy, who is Jewish, started at SSM as an administrator, he declined to lead a prayer in a meeting, Ryan recounted in her book, On Becoming Exceptional. Ron, Im not asking you to be Catholic, she recalled telling him. And I know youve only been here two weeks. So, if youd like to make it three, I suggest you be prepared to pray the next time youre asked. Levy went on to serve SSM for more than 30 years praying from then on, Ryan wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Catholic hospitals, meetings are still likely to start with a prayer. Crucifixes often adorn buildings and patient rooms. Mission statements on the walls of SSM facilities remind patients: We reveal the healing presence of God. Above all else, the Catholic faith calls on its hospitals to treat everyone regardless of race, religion, or ability to pay, said Diarmuid Rooney, a vice president of the Catholic Health Association. No nuns run the trade groups member hospitals, according to the lobbying group. But the mission that compelled the nuns is what compels us now, Rooney said. Its not just words on a wall. The Catholic Health Association urges its hospitals to evaluate themselves every three years on whether theyre living up to Catholic teachings. It created a tool that weighs seven criteria, including how a hospital acts as an extension of the church and cares for poor and marginalized patients. Were not relying on hearsay that the Catholic identity is alive and well in our facilities and hospitals, Rooney said. We can actually see on a scale where they are at. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The association does not share the results with the public. At SSM Health, our Catholic identity is deeply and structurally ingrained even with no nun at the helm, spokesperson Patrick Kampert said. The system reports to two boards. One functions as a typical business board of directors while the other ensures the system abides by the rules of the Catholic Church. The church requires the majority of that nine-member board to be Catholic. Three nuns currently serve on it; one is the chair. Separately, SSM also is required to file an annual report with the Vatican detailing the ways, Kampert said, we deepen our Catholic identity and further the healing ministry of Jesus. SSM declined to provide copies of those reports. From a business perspective, though, its hard to distinguish a Catholic hospital system like SSM from a secular one, said Ruth Hollenbeck, a former Anthem insurance executive who retired in 2018 after negotiating Missouri hospital contracts. In the contracts, she said, the difference amounted to a single paragraph stating that Catholic hospitals wouldnt do anything contrary to the churchs directives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To retain tax-exempt status under Internal Revenue Service rules, all nonprofit hospitals must provide a benefit to their communities such as free or reduced-price care for patients with low incomes. But the IRS provides a broad definition of what constitutes a community benefit, which gives hospitals wide latitude to justify not needing to pay taxes. On average, the nations nonprofit hospitals reported that 15.5% of their total annual expenses were for community benefits in 2020, the latest figure available from the American Hospital Association. SSM Health, including all of its subsidiaries, spent proportionately far less than the associations average for individual hospitals, allocating roughly the same share of its annual expenses to community efforts over three years: 5.1% in 2020, 4.5% in 2021, and 4.9% in 2022, according to a KFF Health News analysis of its most recent publicly available IRS filings and audited financial statements. A separate analysis from the Lown Institute think tank placed five Catholic systems including the St. Louis regions Ascension on its list of the 10 health systems with the largest fair share deficits, which means receiving more in tax breaks than what they spent on the community. And Lown said three St. Louis-area Catholic health systems Ascension, SSM Health, and Mercy had fair share deficits of $614 million, $235 million, and $92 million, respectively, in the 2021 fiscal year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ascension, Mercy, and SSM disputed Lowns methodology, arguing it doesnt take into account the gap between the payments they receive for Medicaid patients and the cost of delivering their care. The IRS filings do. But, Kampert said, many of the benefits SSM provides arent reflected in its IRS filings either. The forms reflect very simplistic calculations and do not accurately represent the health systems true impact on the community, he said. Today, SSM Health is led by longtime business executive Laura Kaiser. Her compensation in 2022 totaled $8.4 million, including deferred payments, according to its IRS filing. Kampert defended the amount as necessary to retain and attract the most qualified candidate. By contrast, SSM never paid Ryan a salary, giving instead an annual contribution to her convent of less than $2 million a year, according to some tax filings from her long tenure. I didnt join the convent to earn money, Ryan said. KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFFan independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism. A Brooklyn pol arrested after infamously chomping on a cops arm during a homeless shelter protest pulled out the tin cup Saturday and bizarrely raised money on a public sidewalk to help pay off her legal fees. Reps for City Councilwoman Susan Zhuang, a conservative Democrat, were spotted openly soliciting money and collecting checks for the pols legal defense trust at the corner of 25th Avenue and 86th Street in Bensonhurst. Brooklyn Councilwoman Susan Zhuang who was arrested in July after infamously chomping a cops arm during a homeless shelter protest pulled out the tin cup Saturday and bizarrely had staffers raise money on a public sidewalk in Bensonhurst to help pay for her legal fees. Kevin C Downs forThe New York Post Zhuang has said donations received will be used to cover her legal expenses for the criminal charges shes facing, including assault and resisting arrest, after allegedly sinking her teeth into an NYPD cop during a July 17 protest over a proposed Bensonshurt homeless shelter. Stephen Yang for the New York Post The political panhandling occurred near the same site eyed for a shelter that many neighborhood residents and Zhuang have been protesting daily for more than four straight months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And Zhuang appeared to be making a killing with prospective donors. A Post reporter watched 20 people over a half-hour period midday Saturday fill out paperwork before cutting checks. Dozens of others had signed in earlier. It was unclear how much she raised, but The Post spied a $200 check made to the Susan Zhuang Legal Defense Trust. Others holding hundred-dollar bills were told organizers were taking checks only. Zhuang being handcuffed and arrested by cops in July after allegedly biting a cop at a protest. X/YIatin Chu Flyer seeking donations for NYC Councilwoman Susan Zhuangs Legal Defense Trust. Obtained by The New York Post Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protestors have gathered along 86th Street near 25th Avenue in Bensonhurst daily for over 120 straight days to protest the citys plan to open a homeless shelter nearby. Kevin C Downs forThe New York Post Besides Zhuang, indicted MayorEric Adams who is fighting federal bribery charges is the only other NYC pol ever to create a legal defense trust, a controversial mechanism allowing elected officials to accept donations in a manner similar to political campaigns to pay off legal fees. Zhuangs staff declined comment, and she didnt return messages. The embattled pol has said funds received will be used to cover her legal expenses from the myriad of criminal charges shes facing, including assault and resisting arrest, after allegedly sinking her teeth into NYPD Deputy Chief Frank DiGiacomos arm during the July 17 protest. Zhuang, who set up the defense fund in September, had yet to report raising money for it as of her latest disclosure filing last month, records show. However, she did shell out $25,000 from her re-election campaign fund in August to the high-profile spin shop, Actum, to help rehab her image. Following the morning attack by Russian forces on 17 November, the most challenging conditions in the oblast are in the city of Odesa, where heat, electricity and water are partially unavailable. Source: Oleh Kiper, Head of Odesa Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram and the national 24/7 joint newscast Details: On the evening of 17 November, Kiper reported that the situation with heating, water and electricity in the oblast remains difficult. In the southern and central districts Izmail, Rozdilna, Berezivka and Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi the power supply is stable. Energy providers are working on fully restoring power in the Bolhrad and Podilsk districts. Invincibility centres [heated premises stocked with food and power banks to assist residents facing hardships due to power cuts] are open in these areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote:"The most difficult situation is in the city of Odesa and the Odesa district. Repair works are underway to fully restore supplies of heat, electricity and water. According to DTEK [Ukraine's largest private energy firm], as yet there is no technical ability to supply power to critical infrastructure in the Kyivskyi and Prymorskyi districts of the city. Generators are in use. In total, 674 invincibility centres are operational in the oblast, with an additional 138 ready to open if necessary. We hope that given favourable conditions, the power supply in Odesa Oblast will be fully stabilised soon. Water and heating services are expected to be restored by morning." Details: Earlier, Kiper announced that the Commission on Technogenic and Environmental Safety and Emergencies had decided that schools and educational institutions of all types in the city of Odesa, both state and private, will be closed on Monday and Tuesday. However, provisions have been made for on-site childcare groups and classes in preschools and general secondary schools. Kiper revealed on the national 24/7 joint newscast that Odesa Oblast was attacked with nearly 50 aerial targets, 80% of which were missiles of various types. Two employees of Ukrenergo, Ukraines state-owned electricity transmission operator, were killed, and a 17-year-old boy was injured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most of the oblast was initially left without electricity, but efforts to restore the power supply are ongoing. There are issues with the water supply in the city of Odesa; technical water is being delivered and water distribution points remained open until 22:00 to ensure access to drinking water. Background: On 17 November, Russian forces carried out a large-scale attack, damaging critical energy infrastructure in Odesa Oblast. This has resulted in disruptions to heating, water and electricity supplies. The attack claimed the lives of two Ukrenergo employees and caused widespread power outages across the oblast. The Oblast Administration says the power supply is expected to be fully restored within 24 hours, with water and heating services anticipated to resume by the morning of 18 November. Support UP or become our patron! At Barnsdall High School in northeastern Oklahoma, teacher James Cole prompts his Advanced Placement English students to write an opinion essay about the recent presidential election and what direction the country should go. A student chooses to take the stance of indifferent, but isnt sure how to develop the required counterarguments for the essay. Youre 15. In four years, youll be 19, Cole offers. Youre a legal adult. Youve graduated high school in four years, youre in the working real world. So youre not old enough now, but in four years, you will be, and youll be affected greatly because of it. Okay? So thats an argument I would say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its Coles first year teaching AP, and he said he loves that it allows him to delve deeper with students. Before him, media specialist Wilma Logue taught it. Shes been at Barnsdall for about 70 years and started the schools AP program in the early 2000s. Its rigorous. Its challenging. And its making people think, Logue said. And were living in a world right now that wed better do a lot of thinking. And I think AP lends itself to that. AP has been around for more than 70 years, with a significant expansion nationwide in the early 2000s. The coursework is demanding, and students have the option of earning college credit by passing a test at the end. The tests are graded on a scale of 1-5, and a 3 is considered a passing grade. According to the Oklahoma State Department of Educations Advanced Placement Annual Report, 26,399 AP exams were taken by Oklahoma students last year. About 54% of those resulted in passing grades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four years ago, lawmakers passed House Bill 3400, which requires all Oklahoma public high schools to offer at least four Advanced Placement courses. It went into effect this fall. Barnsdall is currently teaching AP English and Biology. It stays in compliance with the new policy by making other courses available online. But Superintendent Sayra Bryant says the law hasnt resulted in much of a change in her district. We can offer them, Bryant said. Getting students to take them is the hard part. More: New rule requires Oklahoma students to fill out FAFSA to graduate: What to know Thats the case at many Oklahoma schools. According to data from the College Board, analyzed by StateImpact, though schools stay in compliance by offering courses, more than 60% of high schools are currently teaching zero AP courses this year. Only a quarter are teaching four or more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The issue is exacerbated in rural schools in districts with enrollment of less than 1,000, nearly 80% are teaching zero AP courses, and 94% are teaching less than four. The law may have had an impact, albeit modest, on the number of AP courses currently being taught since it was passed in 2020. Then, 192 high schools taught zero courses. This year, 27 of those are now teaching AP courses, and five of those are teaching four or more AP courses. Rural Oklahoma schools face obstacles to AP buy-in Red Oak Public Schools in southeastern Oklahoma serves less than 300 students. Bryan Deatherage, the districts superintendent, said the demand for AP is nonexistent. And even if there was a demand, a shortage of teachers means his students would have to take the courses online. If youre going to start trying to teach three and four AP classes, our teachers typically teach seven through twelfth [grade], Deatherage said. You had one math teacher, one science teacher, one English teacher, etcetera. So, theres not room in the day, per se, to offer two or three AP courses just to appease three or four kids. It just is not feasible with the personnel that we have. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the College Boards data, 14 districts are offering some or all of their AP courses online. Deatherage said he feels like lawmakers are out-of-touch with the realities of rural communities. Theres real things that are happening that were having to deal with in rural Oklahoma that consume our days. Where did the kid stay last night? Were they with mom? Were they with dad? Were they with a foster family? Were they with grandparents? Did they eat? Did they sleep? Deatherage said. But somebody is worried whether that kids taking an AP class. Im just glad they got shoes on and could come to school. Rep. Rhonda Baker (R-Yukon) authored the legislation. She did not return requests for an interview. In defending the bill on the House Floor in March of 2020, she was asked about its impact on rural districts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We do want to make offerings of AP courses available to all districts across the state, even if they only have one or two students that may want to access the course they can do so virtually, Baker said. Were trying to make sure that there are enough choices available for even one or two students. Macomb Public Schools Superintendent Matt Riggs said risking college credit over a high-stakes test, instead of earning the credit through taking a concurrent course, is a gamble his students arent willing to take. If they put the work in with concurrent, they get high school credit and they can get college credit, and its immediate, Riggs said. I think a lot of them just look at it like, If Im going to be doing the work and doing the extra, I want to be guaranteed of the credit, of the reward, that Im going to receive once I do this work. He said he thinks lawmakers were well-intentioned with the law, and he credits it for continuing a conversation about expanding student pathways. But in his district, he doesnt think it has done anything to move the needle. Instead, he said, it would be more effective to expand course offerings by providing funding to hire more staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think at the Legislature especially, there are good ideas and people, but they dont involve people in conversations that can bring those other frames of reference, Riggs said. And then they also try to frame the conversation around, Well, why would you be against making sure that kids get AP? Well, nobodys against that, nobody is against course offerings. But theres the practical side of being able to make it work. At Barnsdall, science teacher Austin Gann teaches a five-student AP Biology class. He said regardless of the law, he sees value in schools offering advanced courses when they can. While concurrent courses may be more of a sure thing, in terms of earning college credit, he believes his students take AP for the rigor and the elevated GPA. I think it allows us to differentiate [instruction], but in their own class hour, Gann said. And instead of trying to do it all in one group, trying to get people stretched, instead of maybe holding them back if they were in another setting. Media specialist Wilma Logue said shes aware of the hardships that rural students are facing, but she sees AP classes as necessary for developing the next generation through expanding access to higher-level thinking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I guess I want to quote [Robert] Browning: A mans reach should exceed his grasp, or whats a heaven for? Its simply exploring the world and letting the mind reach out and pull in ideas, Logue said. They need more than just calling words, reading a book and just reading words, and not thinking, not applying their own ideas to that and doing something with it. And so that, I think, thats advanced placement.StateImpact Oklahoma is a partnership of Oklahomas public radio stations which relies on contributions from readers and listeners to fulfill its mission of public service to Oklahoma and beyond. Donate online. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Many Oklahoma schools still not offering Advanced Placement classes Train derails, hits bridge support in Ohio Officers and firefighters responded after nearly 10 train cars derailed in Ohio Saturday night. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Cincinnati Police said between eight to nine cars derailed near West 6th and Evans Streets around 9 p.m., according to our news partner WCPO in Cincinnati. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The train does not appear to be carrying hazardous materials, police told Cincinnati media outlets. The Cincinnati Fire Department sent photos to media outlets. It shows that the train struck a support for the 6th St. bridge. 6th Street Viaduct will be closed due to the derailment. No injuries are reported. We will update this story. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and multiple Columbus city officials made their thoughts known Saturday after receiving earlier reports that a group of neo-Nazis marched in the Short North Arts District. NBC4 received multiple eyewitness accounts and video around 1:45 p.m. of the march, which showed at least eleven people wearing masks walking down the sidewalk. The group carried flags bearing swastikas near the intersection of 1st Avenue and North High Street, and also shouted obscenities into a megaphone. DeWine, who denounced the groups actions, also confirmed more details of the incident. Why are boob lights in so many houses and apartments? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will not tolerate hate in Ohio, DeWine wrote. Neo-Nazis their faces hidden behind red masks roamed streets in Columbus today, carrying Nazi flags and spewing vile and racist speech against people of color and Jews. There were reports that they were also espousing white power sentiments. City Council President Shannon Hardin rejected the groups pathetic efforts to promote fear and hate. Ive been in touch with law enforcement about Nazis marching through the city, Hardin said. City Attorney Zach Klein also confirmed he was in contact with Columbus police regarding the march, and would continue to monitor this hate groups actions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Displays of neo-Nazi hate have no home in Columbus, Klein wrote. Take your flags and the masks you hide behind and go home and never come back. What is Bluesky? Emerging social platform tops 15M users in wake of election NBC4 reached out to Columbus police and asked if any arrests were made as a result of the march. They have not said if anyone was detained as of 5:30 p.m. Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther also shared a statement regarding the march. We will not allow any of our neighbors to be intimidated, threated or harmed because of who they are, how they worship or whom they love, Ginther said. We reject the cowardly display reported in the Short North earlier today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and multiple Columbus city officials made their thoughts known Saturday after receiving earlier reports that a group of neo-Nazis marched in the Short North Arts District. NBC4 received multiple eyewitness accounts and video around 1:45 p.m. of the march, which showed at least eleven people wearing masks walking down the sidewalk. The group carried flags bearing swastikas near the intersection of 1st Avenue and North High Street, and also shouted obscenities into a megaphone. DeWine, who denounced the groups actions, also confirmed more details of the incident. We will not tolerate hate in Ohio, DeWine wrote. Neo-Nazis their faces hidden behind red masks roamed streets in Columbus today, carrying Nazi flags and spewing vile and racist speech against people of color and Jews. There were reports that they were also espousing white power sentiments. The Short North Civic Association also shared an account Saturday night of a confrontation between the neo-Nazis and a bystander during the march. The bystander sprayed the group with repellent spray, and the neo-Nazis retaliated by spraying them with mace. Columbus police were in the area and stepped in to break up the encounter, according to the association. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a Sunday morning update, police said officers investigated the encounter and at first detained multiple neo-Nazi protestors for assault. However, police said it was later determined an assault did not take place and released all individuals that were initially detained. Columbus police said no arrests were made. City Council President Shannon Hardin rejected the groups pathetic efforts to promote fear and hate. Ive been in touch with law enforcement about Nazis marching through the city, Hardin said. Parents react to Olentangy school principal placed on leave after sending election note City Attorney Zach Klein also confirmed he was in contact with Columbus police regarding the march, and would continue to monitor this hate groups actions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Displays of neo-Nazi hate have no home in Columbus, Klein wrote. Take your flags and the masks you hide behind and go home and never come back. Lee Shapiro, regional director for the American Jewish Committee, did note that Columbus police were acting to quell this unauthorized march in a statement Saturday evening. After drive-thru order dispute, three McDonalds employees face assault charges Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther also shared comments regarding the march. We will not allow any of our neighbors to be intimidated, threated or harmed because of who they are, how they worship or whom they love, Ginther said. We reject the cowardly display reported in the Short North earlier today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. Leaders in Ohio condemned a group of neo-Nazis parading around part of Columbus carrying flags with swastikas on Saturday afternoon. Columbus public safety dispatchers told CBS affiliate WBNS on Saturday that they received multiple 911 calls around 1:30 p.m. about a group of individuals marching in the city's Short North. Video sent to the station showed nearly a dozen people wearing black pants, shirts and head coverings and red masks covering their mouths marching down the street. Three of the people were carrying black flags with red swastikas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was not immediately clear who was in the group. On Monday, the White House weighed in, issuing a statement saying the "hateful poison of Nazism" is "hostile to everything the United States stands for, including protecting the dignity of all our citizens and the freedom to worship." Hours after the incident, Mayor Andrew Ginther released a statement saying the city rejects the "cowardly display" and that it "stands squarely against hatred and bigotry." "We will not allow any of our neighbors to be intimidated, threatened or harmed because of who they are, how they worship and whom they love," Ginther said in his statement shared on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city's attorney, Zach Klein, said in a statement on X that those involved in the neo-Nazi march should "take your flags and the masks you hide behind and go home and never come back. Your hate isn't welcome in our city." "This is not who we are, and we will not tolerate or normalize this disgusting ideology in any form," he added. Gov. Mike DeWine said in his own statement that the people involved in the incident were "spewing vile and racist speech against people of color and Jews." "There is no place in this State for hate, bigotry, antisemitism or violence, and we must denounce it wherever we see it," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Columbus Division of Police Sgt. Joseph Albert told WNBS that there were no arrests made, although he noted that many of the individuals were detained but later released. Columbus, Ohio's largest city, is located roughly 45 minutes from Springfield, where the Columbus Dispatch reported that neo-Nazis marched through the streets this summer as the city became the focal point of false claims about Haitian immigrants in the presidential election. Combating Parkinson's with rock climbing Cher opens up about life with Sonny Extended interview: Cher Nov. 16COLUMBUS Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik met Nov. 7 morning with several officials from the Ukrainian region of Kharkiv Oblast for the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation aimed at strengthening Ohio's support for the war-torn country. Among those attending the signing ceremony from Ukraine were Head of the Kharkiv Oblast Regional Council Tetiana Yehorova-Lutsenko and Ukrainian Ambassador to the United States Oksana Markarova. The ceremony, held in the Cabinet Room at the Statehouse, marks a renewed commitment between Ohio and Kharkiv Oblast, building on a longstanding relationship that promotes mutual progress in various areas. The Kharkiv Oblast delegation met with Governor DeWine, State Representative Sean Patrick Brennan, and representatives of the Ohio Department of Development and the Ohio Commission on Eastern European Affairs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our partnership, rooted in goodwill and mutual respect, unites Ohio and Kharkiv Oblast in a shared vision for prosperity and advancement for our communities and citizens," said DeWine. "Today I was extremely honored to witness together with Governor Mike DeWine the signature of Memorandum of Cooperation between the Director of the Department of Development, State of Ohio, and the Kharkiv Regional Council," said Ambassador Markarova. "Thank you for standing with Ukraine for almost a thousand days of this terrible and brutal Russian aggression, thank you Mr. Governor, and thank you People of Ohio! I am confident that today we are opening a new chapter of our cooperation between our great countries and bringing our victory closer." The Memorandum of Cooperation builds on a partnership between the two countries established 22 years ago with the signing of an agreement of intent focused on mutual growth, with exchanges in business, the arts, and cultural understanding. The city of Cincinnati also plays a role in strengthening ties between the two regions with their decades-old sister-city relationship with the city of Kharkiv, extending their agreement with the region last year as a symbol of solidarity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The DeWine-Husted Administration has shown it's committed to deepening our state's partnership with Kharkiv," said Director Mihalik. "By signing a Memorandum of Cooperation, we are solidifying that partnership that will benefit many generations building a world that is more interconnected, prosperous, and inclusive for all." Ohio is home to more than 44,000 people of Ukrainian descent. In 2023, Ukraine was Ohio's 63rd largest export market, exporting more than $31 million worth of products. Ohio imported $205 million worth of goods from Ukraine in 2023. OKLAHOMA Oklahoma state superintendent Ryan Walters announces a new agency aimed at promoting religious liberty and patriotism. Walters says the Office of Religious Liberty and patriotism at the State Department of Education will offer support to teachers and students. Earlier this year, Walters issued a mandate requiring Oklahoma schools to incorporate the Christian Bible into classroom lessons. Walters says schools have become ground zero for the erosion of religious liberty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also announced the purchase of more than 500 Bibles for use in advanced placement government classrooms. Walters says he is focused on ensuring we get Bibles available in every classroom in our state as quickly as we can. Last month, the ACLU filed a lawsuit on behalf of more than 30 Oklahomans to block Walters mandate that all public schools use the Bible as part of classroom lessons. The 32 people represented in that lawsuit include parents, students and faith leaders. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. Launching a scathing attack against the Bharatiya Janata Party, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Sunday said that the voice of the Lucknow engine (UP government) has changed as the Uttar Pradesh bypolls are approaching. "The voice of the Lucknow engine (UP government) has changed as the elections (UP Bypolls) approach. Are they talking about any development? They say that Samajwadi people are mafia and goons...But the truth is that when the Chief Minister (Yogi Adityanath) leaves his house, he does not look in the mirror," said Akhilesh Yadav while addressing a public rally in Uttar Pradesh's Katehari Vidhan Sabha. He further promised that if people make the Samajwadi party win then schemes like Agniveer would be abolished and permanent jobs in security forces would be provided to the youth. "Governments keep changing but we must work on improving the institutions. The democratic system must be improvised. People's trust in the system must increase. The BJP has done damage to this. I appeal to you all to stand in queue to cast a vote. If you could stand in long queues when demonetisation happened, then, you can do it now as well. I promise youngsters of employment and tell them that we will never accept schemes like agniveer. I will work to provide them with permanent jobs in the security forces," added Akhilesh Yadav. The SP chief said that the BJP will be defeated in the Maharashtra assembly elections and UP bypolls as well. "The engines of Delhi (central government) and Lucknow (UP government) are colliding with each other. There are a lot of reasons behind this collision. Due to this, (UP) DGP has not been appointed...Earlier their (Delhi and UP) engines were colliding, now their slogans are also colliding...After the results of the Maharashtra elections, the Maharashtra government will not be in power. They (BJP) will lose UP also...", he added. Notably, bypolls will be held on nine seats in Uttar Pradesh on November 20 and results will be declared on November 23. (ANI) GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) Investigators with the Greenville County Sheriffs Office are working to learn more about a shooting which sent one person to the hospital early Sunday morning. According to the sheriffs office, at around 3 a.m. deputies were called to a home on Augusta Road in Greenville for a reported shooting. Shortly after deputies were called, an adult man arrived at the hospital with at least one gunshot wound. The shooting remains under investigation, and there is currently no word on any suspects. Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 23-CRIME. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. SPARTANBURG COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) A woman was injured after a rollover that happened in Inman, South Carolina Highway Patrol said. Highway patrol said the accident happened at 5:00 p.m. on I-26 westbound, near exit 15, when the vehicle rolled off the road. The collision involved a singular vehicle, and the driver was the only occupant. Highway patrol said the woman was transported to the hospital by EMS. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Oklahoma City police responded to a fatal shooting in Northeast Oklahoma City Saturday night. According to police they received a call of shots fired near the area of East Wilshire Boulevard and Northeast Katherine Place around 8 P.M. When police arrived they found the male victim laying in the street and he was transported to the hospital where he later died. At this time there is no suspect information available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. CRANSTON, R.I. (WPRI) Care packages containing a little bit of Rhode Island were assembled and sent to military members stationed away from home during the holidays as part of the annual Operation Holiday Cheer. Rhode Island Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos, Blue Star Moms, and several other state and federal organizations met at the National Guard Armory in Cranston to assemble hundreds of care packages Sunday. The care packages contained Ocean State favorites like Dels Lemonade, Autocrat Coffee syrup and Downeast coffee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Between 350-400 care packages are expected to be put together for local troops this year at the Operation Holiday Cheer event. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. Last month, Ukraine announced it had made its first contact with North Korean forces. The skirmish occurred in Russias Kursk province, where Ukraine has made gains in recent months. The Ukrainians were successful during the attacks. According to reports, the North Koreans likely sustained casualties during the fighting, and Ukrainian forces are standing firm. Ukraine continues to hold over 1,000 square kilometers of Russian territory. Aside from the event, the North Koreans and Russians in Kursk province are experiencing other issues. First, they are struggling to overcome language barriers. Russian officers have had to take time to teach North Korean soldiers basic military commands, which has been a painful process for Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is estimated that North Korea has sent around 10,000 troops to help Russia with its ongoing invasion of Ukraine. According to defense experts, North Koreas involvement will not alter the scales of the war. Instead, it suggests that the Russian Federations invasion is not going according to plan, and that it is desperate for assistance. In addition, the Russian and North Korean soldiers are struggling with military operations. Both militaries use different tactics, which has made coordinating efforts an issue. In one instance, the Daily Beast even reported that North Korean soldiers fired upon and accidentally killed Russian soldiers who were fighting alongside them in Kursk. Given these issues, Russia may turn to Belarus to help it in its fight. Over the past two and a half years, Russia has used Belarus as a staging ground for its operations. Russian forces have stayed in Belarusian barracks, the Russians have transported soldiers and equipment from Russia into Belarus and they have previously entered Ukrainian territory from the north. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, the Russians have launched bombardments on Ukraine from Belarusian territory. Russia even deployed nuclear weapons to Belarus. There are also advantages for Russia in having Belarus join its war. First, the Belarusian government and Belarusian military still operate in Russia. This would mean that Belarusian and Russian soldiers would be able to easily communicate with one another. In addition, Belarus and Russia hold several military exercises and drills throughout the year. They are interoperable with one another as they have operated together before. Belarusian soldiers would be familiar with Russian tactics and battleground operations. Finally, Belarus and Russia neighbor Ukraine. The soldiers in these countries are familiar with the terrain and landscape of the region, something the North Koreans lack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the Belarusian government understands that sending its soldiers to aid Ukraine would be a costly and unpopular mistake. Most Belarusian citizens oppose the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The majority of citizens also do not want Belarus to send its soldiers to fight in Ukraine. Aside from civilian opposition, numerous members of the Belarusian military do not support the war. In fact, several officers resigned in protest and others have joined foreign legions in Ukraine to fight against the Russian invasion. Finally, the Belarusian government is aware of its unpopularity and fears the nations opposition movement. Belarus officials understand that sending soldiers to fight in Ukraine would spark outrage nationwide, leading to protest movements. Therefore, to avoid losing power, the Belarusian government is doing everything possible to push back against Russias request to send soldiers to join its war. But Russia is getting impatient and desperate, and it may use forceful tactics to have Belarus enter the invasion. The Russian Federation understands that it is Belaruss largest trading partner. Russian trade and loan programs have helped the Belarusian economy stay afloat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Should Russia determine that the North Koreans are not enough to help it in its invasion of Ukraine, then Russia may opt to use financial pressure to have Belarus join. This would condemn thousands of Belarusian soldiers to their deaths. Now, as Ukrainian forces continue to hold their ground against the invading Russian and North Korean forces, they will be on high alert as they monitor the situation in Belarus. Ukraine understands the complexities Belarus would bring to the war but is prepared to accept the challenge. North Koreas involvement in Russias war has done little to alter the battlefield. Russia will continue to turn to Belarus for additional assistance, and at the same time, Ukraine will continue to operate carefully to defend its homeland against the ongoing invasion. Regardless of what is to come, Ukraine will be ready. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mark Temnycky is an accredited freelance journalist covering Eurasian affairs and a nonresident fellow at the Atlantic Councils Eurasia Center. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Delaware confronts a collection of related crises: a shortage of affordable housing; a surge in unhealthy medical conditions; erosion of environmental resilience; and rising air and water pollution. While none of these have simple causes or solutions, public decisions over the past several decades have exacerbated them. Delawares sprawling development patterns force us to drive to school, to work, to the store, to the fitness center and elsewhere and often at considerable distances. Decades of piecemeal land-use decisions have made us totally dependent on our personal motor vehicles. That dependence has cost us a great deal. It has compromised our health, created a shortage of diverse and affordable housing, gobbled up open space, farmland, forests and wetlands, increased pollution, escalated the public costs of infrastructure and services, driven climate change and eroded the sense of place and quality of life that makes strong communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Consider Delawares elevated incidences of obesity, diabetes and heart disease, due partly to our sedentary lifestyle; the increase in pediatric asthma due partly to local air pollution; and the high cost of healthcare associated with all those conditions. Consider, too, increased air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions from traffic, the high cost of transportation as a percentage of household income, high rents and the continued building of homes at prices out of reach for too many Delawareans. Governor-Elect Matt Meyer visited Glasgow High School and helped teach an algebra lesson on Wednesday November 6, 2024. Our development patterns also compound the mobility and housing challenges faced by our large and growing older population, including the ability to age in place, which has downstream impacts on healthcare costs for state Medicaid and retiree programs and services. All of these conditions hit our most vulnerable neighbors hardest. Their health is worse than the population overall, flooding of their neighborhoods is routine and more consequential, their housing options are more limited, and they are cut off from valuable resources and economic opportunities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whats more, the loss of open space from new development has greatly diminished the lands ability to absorb storm water, which has increased flooding during major weather events and extreme high tides, compromising our already compromised climate resilience and increasing the need for expensive infrastructure improvements. And with every traffic study aimed at accommodating more cars and with every zoning change we approve every subdivision, strip center or office park we make the challenges harder to address. Delaware must reform land-use strategies Yet there is a simple solution: Address the challenges together by reforming our land-use strategies. In a nutshell, spur development where it makes real sense and discourage development where it causes the most damage. The time has come. In Delaware, 60 government entities make land-use decisions under a structure designed when our state was 60% less populated and confronted fewer critical challenges. There is little coordination between those entities and there are no penalties for deviating from state planning guidance or county comprehensive plans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We hope the incoming administration will recognize that smart land use is one of the most powerful and cost-effective tools for addressing our housing challenges, mitigating climate effects, building community resilience and improving human and environmental health. Shouldnt municipal, county and state governments be on the same page? Rethinking Delaware believes they should. Rethinking Delaware is an informal coalition of former state officials and nonprofit, non-governmental organizations that believe government at all levels, led by the state, should encourage development of compact, mixed-use, walkable, transit-supportive communities as a central part of the states housing, transportation, health, environmental and climate priorities. Our recommendations to the new administration include: Review and amend all state and local land-use and infrastructure policies and funding for transportation, schools, and water and sewer systems that impede development of compact, walkable communities. In support of more compact development patterns, shift transportation investment to accommodate walking, biking and a new suite of transit services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Re-orient all comprehensive plans and zoning laws to prioritize mixed-use neighborhoods with places to live, work, shop, learn, and play while increasing the supply and diversity of housing and transportation options. Establish state- and/or county task forces to develop innovative proposals for specific areas that address the collective challenges of housing and transportation costs, our changing demographics and health challenges, and climate-related threats, all in ways that incorporate a sustainable economic strategy for the future. Imagine what could be. Walk the kids to school or the bus stop, then walk to the local cafe for a coffee on the way to the co-op workspace or transit stop. Its right near the grocer, pharmacy and cleaners. On the weekends, hike or bike the beautiful green trails around the neighborhoodthe same trails others use to cycle to work. Walk or bike to the park and ball fields, the farm stand, to restaurant night. The result: more physical activity that lowers health risks, which eases the cost of healthcare; better air and fewer respiratory ailments, which also eases healthcare costs; less valuable time spent in traffic; lower transportation costs (which translates to more discretionary spending for our households), more necessities readily available to seniors, and stronger communities; a more resilient environment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats a better Delaware for everyone. If you agree, reach out to your town council, county council representatives and state legislators and the governor-elect to urge action. Reach us at rethinkingdelaware@gmail.com. Rethinking Delaware is an informal coalition of former cabinet secretaries and state officials including Anne Canby, Rita Landgraf, Christophe Tulou, Joseph Pika, Mark Chura, and Charles Salkin; New Castle County Council representative Dee Durham; and nonprofit, nongovernmental organizations including Delaware Chapter of the Sierra Club, Delaware Nature Society, Healthy Communities Delaware, Housing Alliance of Delaware and The Nature Conservancy in Delaware. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Opinion: Delaware smart development The Democrats have some tough choices in front of them. With Vice President Kamala Harris, they ran a very strong candidate in an incredibly well-resourced campaign, in which hundreds of prominent members of the opposing party endorsed their nominee and still lost. Now, they are thinking about which direction to move next, and that consideration will affect the politics of the coming years. Hillary Clintons loss in 2016 caused many Democratic activists and leaders to question their long-standing assumptions about politics. They developed all sorts of narratives to explain it, that she practiced identity politics, campaigned in the wrong places, her messaging wasnt engaging, there was too much racism and sexism in the electorate, Russia interfered and more. A lot of these diverse narratives led to a common set of beliefs: Clinton was somehow too unconventional a candidate, and the party needed a bland, relatively moderate white guy if they were ever going to defeat Donald Trump in 2020. That is, Clinton was New Coke and they needed to pivot back to Coke Classic as quickly as possible. Joe Biden was very much the Coke Classic candidate. Read more: Abcarian: How could voters choose both Trump and AOC? Pay attention, Democrats Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The outcome of 2020 confirmed those Democrats beliefs. We cant prove it, of course, but as far as many Democrats were concerned, they needed to moderate (both ideologically and symbolically) to win, and they did and it worked. With Harris loss, Democrats will be considering a new set of narratives. This was about Harris race and sex I get why this is an obvious argument, especially since the Democrats have lost both contests in which they nominated a woman for president. I believe its wrong. For one thing, women candidates do as well as men candidates in contests for governor, the Senate, the House and elsewhere, even while many party leaders are convinced they dont . Many nations with far less progressive views toward womens rights have had women as prime ministers and presidents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is a very unfortunate case of timing that the Democrats nominated women in two elections where the national mood was already inclined against their party. In 2016, Democrats had held the White House for two terms (winning a third consecutive term is very rare) and economic growth was modest at best. In 2024, voters were convinced that the economy was awful and blamed the Democrats for it. In both elections, Democrats counted on peoples revulsion toward Trump to carry them to victory. It wasnt a baseless idea, but it didnt work. I know some Democrats are convinced that the nation is too racist to elect a Black candidate. Id note that only a handful of people have won the White House by majority vote twice; one of them was a liberal Black man from Chicago, and it wasnt that long ago. And some are convinced that white voters are more likely to vote for a white candidate, but to that Id note that Harris, as a Black woman, did not really see a particular spike for her campaign among either Black or women voters. Conversely, Trump made impressive gains among Latino voters while directly insulting Latinos. Racial electoral politics are not always as straightforward as wed like to think. Read more: Granderson: There's no mystery. White women handed Trump the election The party was too 'woke' Versions of The party was too embracing of the trans community / undocumented immigrants / crazy cat women / pronouns, etc. are already emerging. There are often more conservative Democrats who are not as enthusiastic about the partys mission of inclusiveness and are ready to throw an unpopular minority under the bus in the name of electability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Harris was not particularly embracing of what we call identity politics. In her many speeches, she rarely talked about her own race or gender (possibly having internalized a lesson of Clintons loss), instead focusing on the economy and on her opponents flaws. To be sure, the party was widely accused of doing things along these lines, but parties are regularly accused of many things; that doesnt mean its the reason they lost. Read more: Calmes: Coming soon to Washington America's dark ages Messaging was poor An understandably frustrating thing for Democrats is that the Biden administration made legitimate and substantial policy gains, and the party was not rewarded for it. They are often accused of being out of touch with the needs of working-class voters but presided over substantial gains for union laborers and significant income growth for lower-income people , in a way that actually reversed the trend of economic inequality . Maybe, the concern goes, its Democrats fault for assuming policy achievements will be rewarded, and not knowing how to message about it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a plausible concern, but its not as if the Democrats didnt speak about this . Also, when Trump is talking about the middle class, he is often speaking in very different terms less about gains in income or political power, and more about racial, gender and cultural statements , advocating for an Archie Bunker-esque vision of America. Harris needed more time or a competitive primary This is a narrative thats likely to take care of itself, since the next Democratic presidential nominee will probably emerge from a competitive nomination contest. Im skeptical that any particular skills Harris would have honed or any sorts of attacks she would have sustained during a tough primary campaign would have made much of a difference in the end. It could potentially have resulted in a different nominee (although probably not), but that nominee would have faced the same headwinds Harris did. And its hard to say that Democrats werent unified behind Harris they were. There were just more voters on the other side. These internal party conversations are useful indeed the campaign after the campaign to decide just what the lessons of the election were can determine a lot about what the party will do to prepare for the 2026 and 2028 election cycles, and what sort of candidates it will nominate. These debates are often informed by emotions and instincts, but as Democrats chart a path forward, it is useful to consider just what the evidence says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seth Masket is a professor of political science at the University of Denver and a visiting senior scholar at the Center for the Study of Democratic Institutions at Vanderbilt University. He is the author of Learning From Loss: Democrats 2016-2020 and writes the Substack Tusk. If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. A somber scene unfolded on Oct. 6 in Tehrans Revolutionary Court that underscores the brutal clampdown on dissent in Iran. Seven political prisoners, including seasoned activists and young professionals, faced grave charges under the watchful eyes of the regime. Among the accused is Abolhassan Montazer, a 65-year-old with a storied history of political resistance dating back to the 1980s. Despite suffering from serious health conditions, Montazer faces charges that could lead to the most severe penalties. Alongside him are young professionals like Pouya Ghobadi and Vahid Bani-American, whose only crime appears to be their unyielding demand for a free Iran. The Iranian judiciary, acting as an arm of suppression rather than a pillar of justice, has begun resorting to increasingly harsh measures. The recent trial of these seven men is conducted by Judge Iman Afshari, who is known for his harsh rulings. The proceedings lack the most basic standards of fairness and due process, and they are often characterized by predetermined outcomes and accusations of torture and forced confessions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This crackdown occurs within the broader context of the Iranian regimes efforts to control an increasingly volatile societal atmosphere, as public discontent simmers due to the new President Masoud Pezeshkians failure to alleviate the severe difficulties faced by Iranians. The judiciarys oppressive measures extend well beyond the courtroom. Recent months have seen a sharp rise in the number of executions. Specifically, in the last week of October, at least 25 prisoners were executed, contributing to an alarming surge that resulted in 170 executions that month alone an 85 percent increase compared to the previous year. Among those executed was Jamshid Sharmahd, a German-Iranian citizen who was controversially abducted in Dubai in 2020 and later sentenced to death following a sham trial, which was widely denounced by Amnesty International, Germany and the European Council. These executions typically follow trials lacking fair legal representation, with defendants often charged with ambiguous crimes like waging war against God. The execution tally rose to 438 people since Pezeshkian assumed office in August. Fearing the increasing appeal of the Peoples Mojahedin Organization of Iran among the Iranian public, the ruling regime has intensified its actions against the dissident group, detaining its supporters and issuing death sentences to suppress the organizations activities. In a stark demonstration of both economic and political suppression, assets linked to the group are being confiscated. A glaring example is the absurd trial in absentia of 104 members in Tehran, during which the judge mandated the confiscation of all defendants properties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The plight of these political prisoners is a stark reminder of the ongoing human rights crisis in Iran. Their trial is a test of global commitment to human rights. The world must stand in solidarity with those who have the courage to demand change in the face of such peril. Iran is at a pivotal moment, and the choices made by the international community now will resonate not only within its borders but globally. It is imperative that global powers increase their examination of Irans human rights practices and hold the regime to account for its violations. Every international interaction with Iran, be it economic or diplomatic, should be contingent upon tangible improvements in human rights, such as the release of political prisoners and the cessation of torture within its prisons. The call for action extends beyond mere rhetoric; it demands substantive, collaborative efforts that unequivocally support human rights and justice. This involves not only sanctions and diplomatic pressure but also support for the Iranian populaces quest for freedom from oppressive theocratic rule. The global response should thus be robust and unwavering, aiming to empower the Iranian people in their fight for a democratic and just society. Dr. Majid Rafizadeh is a Harvard-educated political scientist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Elon Musk is one of the biggest winners of the 2024 presidential election, next to President-elect Donald Trump. He went all in to reelect Trump, spending millions of dollars and even personally campaigning in the pivotal state of Pennsylvania. Musk will have an outsized influence in the coming second Trump administration, particularly regarding space policy. Ars Technica has some interesting speculation as to what that means. One of the major effects that Musk could have on a Trump space program may be in the Artemis program. That effect may be concerning as it involves Musks Mars ambitions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hitherto, Artemis has been envisioned to send astronauts back to the moon first, then send them to Mars at some future date. However, the new plan, pushed by Musk, may be to go directly to Mars at the same time as going to the moon or perhaps even bypassing the moon entirely. Musk has boasted that he can send uncrewed Starship rockets to Mars by 2026 with a crewed expedition in 2028. The plan is very attractive to Trump since American and allied boots on the Martian surface by the end of his presidency would be a legacy enhancer. However, the timeline Musk suggests is unrealistic. Much has to happen before Starship is a practical interplanetary spacecraft. A crewed return to the moon by 2028, on the other hand, is entirely reasonable. While NASA still officially plans Artemis III, the first moon landing since 1972, to happen in 2026, problems with the Orion spacecraft heatshield and the time it will take to make the Starship into a viable lunar lander will likely push the date out a year or two. Even so, the prospect of Trump making that phone call to the Artemis III crew on the lunar surface, just as President Nixon did with the crew of Apollo 11, is more likely than having astronauts on Mars during his upcoming term, Trump would also have the legacy of starting the Artemis program, just as President Kennedy did the Apollo program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The arguments for returning to the moon sooner rather than later include the value of Earths nearest neighbor for science and economic development. However, a 21st-century campaign to explore and occupy the moon is also a great enhancer for Americas soft political power, something that takes on greater importance in light of Chinas lunar ambitions. The last thing Trump would want would be for China to steal a march on the United States and get back to the moon first while NASA is bogged down trying to get to Mars. That kind of legacy seems too much like losing. Trump does not like to lose. Greg Autry, a space business educator who served on the NASA agency review team and as White House liaison at NASA, has touched on the Chinese threat in his book Red Moon Rising. Of course, several things can be done to hurry matters along. Regulatory reform would go a long way toward restraining the Federal Aviation Administrations ability to gum up the schedule, for starters. Without waiting for months for regulatory approval, development of the SpaceX Starship can go pedal to the metal. Another decision that might move things along to both the moon and Mars would be to cancel the Space Launch System, or at least phase it out as Starship and other commercial systems continue to develop and improve. The SLS is an expensive, kludgy rocket that has launched only once, during the Artemis I flight in 2022. It is not scheduled to fly again for at least a year, possibly more. The SLS is standing in the way of our expansion to the Moon, Mars and beyond. The trick will be getting Congress to agree to eliminate the rocket. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Firming up plans to go to Mars would be fine, so long as it is not done at the expense of returning to the moon. Glenn Reynolds, a law professor and blogger, suggests that we have the prospect of a future that includes Moon flights, Moon bases, at least one new space station, and possibly orbital solar power stations and asteroid mining beginning within a decade. Mars would follow naturally. That future would be an American-led one rather than a Chinese one. An expansion of humanity across the solar system will provide our civilization with a sense of purpose and dynamism that would benefit future generations beyond evaluation. Mark R. Whittington is the author of Why is It So Hard to Go Back to the Moon? as well as The Moon, Mars and Beyond , and, most recently, Why is America Going Back to the Moon? He blogs at Curmudgeons Corner. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. If theres one universally accepted truth in the modern age, its that sequels suck. And Trump 2.0 will be no exception. Trump takes office with a plan to institute the worst parts of Project 2025. Hell be enabled by a judiciary packed with right-wing ideologues and congressional majorities stacked with MAGA foot soldiers. He intends to take full advantage of the impunity the Supreme Court has given him. But Trump winning with under 50% in a single election does not give him the right to govern as a dictator, nor does it mean American democracy is dead. Ordinary people can organize themselves to block Trumps attacks, break MAGAs political strength and build a winning majority coalition. We know because weve seen it before. In 2016, we wrote the Indivisible Guide to demystify how Congress works and help folks organize locally to fight back against the Trump agenda. It went viral and inspired thousands of Indivisible groups that would go on to help save the Affordable Care Act. In the 2018 elections, those groups helped take back the House of Representatives with the largest popular vote margins for a midterm in the history of the republic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many Americans are upset and scared and perhaps even taking a break from the news. But they are also determined. They want to do their part to protect their family, their neighbors and democracy. While Trump 2.0 and the world are different, weve learned a lot from working with the Indivisible movement over the last eight years, so heres our advice to those Americans on where to begin. We start by coming together. Fascists and their ilk want us to believe were alone and powerless. As historian Timothy Snyder recently observed, They want you to be alone. Nobody is going to fix this alone. Thats not how this works. Even the most capable individuals lack the power local, organized groups possess. Forming or joining local volunteer associations of like-minded Americans where we live, like an Indivisible group, is the basis for everything else we can hope to achieve in this period. Once your group is established, its time to pick your targets. Trump wants us to believe that the presidency is all-powerful, but thats false. Political power overlaps between local, state and federal elected officials, all of whom need votes to get re-elected. No matter the region, at least some of these officials will be ripe targets for influence. Your groups power comes from your ability to either support or be a real pain in the butt to those elected officials. That power can be wielded to get them to hold off the harms of Trump 2.0 or face political consequences. What, more specifically, can we hope to achieve? As we lay out in our new guide, there are four big things: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement First, we can stop, stall or blunt some of the worst of whats to come from Congress and the White House. Second, we play hardball in the cities and states where Democrats have power to fight back and protect our communities. Third, we can protect election infrastructure in swing states to make sure a 2028 election actually takes place. Fourth, we can limit some of the harm that is coming for us, our neighbors and our families. Not every strategy or tactic will work for everyone everywhere. But each of us will have a role. Think of it as a giant national pro-democracy team some of us are playing offense, some are playing defense, but we all need to play our part. Sound impossible in this new era? Well, weve already seen one pressure campaign work just this week. Republicans in Congress tried to fast-track a bill that would have increased Trumps power to target nonprofit organizations. Many Democratic members of Congress were poised to stand aside and let it happen, but a wave of calls to their offices pushed them to take a stand and block the bill. Is it enough? No. Did we do some good for our democracy? Damn right we did. Were not going to lie: This is a lot of work. Its going to take a lot of us to do it, and thats why leadership in this moment must come from regular people, not just politicians. Elected Democrats will need our encouragement, support and cajoling to find their spines and fight back. Elected Republicans can and must break with MAGA or be held accountable for the harm they cause. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If we all tap into the power we have in every corner of our country, we can blunt the damage of Trump 2.0 as we build toward a win in the 2026 midterms. Our country is on the brink, but working together we can live to fight another day. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan met with a high-level delegation from Johns Hopkins University (JHU) on Sunday, during which the two sides explored the potential for establishing an offshore campus of the prestigious US university in India. The 12-member delegation was led by JHU's president Ronald J Daniels. The delegation also included officials from Gupta Klinsky India Institute (GKII), an internal unit of JHU with a mandate to bring the JHU community with Indian partners through research, education, policy and practice. During the meeting, the discussion centred on strengthening academic and research collaborations between JHU, a private research university in Baltimore, Maryland, United States, and premier Indian Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Pradhan emphasised the potential for collaborations to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among students in both nations, the education ministry said in a statement. Higher education Secretary K Sanjay Murthy; senior officials of the Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education and Ministry of External Affairs attended the meeting. "Pradhan highlighted the transformative opportunities enabled by the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020), which has paved the way for academic collaborations and advancing India's education sector," the statement read. Pradhan appreciated the JHU's commitment towards building robust partnerships with Indian HEIs, contributing to the global exchange of knowledge, particularly in the areas of dual and joint degree programmes, two-way mobility of students and faculty, and research partnerships in emerging fields like data science, artificial intelligence, and futuristic technologies. "He emphasised the potential for these collaborations to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among students in both nations. The delegation actively discussed establishing an offshore JHU campus in India," the ministry informed. The ministry asserted that the visit by Daniels and the delegation highlights the growing significance of India-US educational cooperation. As part of their multi-city tour of India, the delegation will visit various Indian university campuses and engage with key government officials and academic leaders. The delegation included distinguished academicians and administrators such as Fritz W. Schroeder, Senior Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations; Alexander Triantis, Dean of the Carey Business School; Judd Walson, Chair of the Department of International Health at the Bloomberg School; Sridevi Sarma, Vice Dean of Graduate Education at the Whiting School of Engineering; Jon Goldstein, Senior Associate Director of Development for International Programs; and Amita Gupta, Director of the Division of Infectious Diseases at Johns Hopkins University and Co-Founder of the Gupta-Klinsky India Institute (GKII). Prominent Indian-origin faculty from JHU, such as Mathuram Santosham, Professor of Paediatrics and International Health, and Chirag Parikh, Professor of Medicine and Director of the Division of Nephrology, also participated. (ANI) Nov. 16To be fair, the controversial, scandal-prone, grossly mismanaged renovation of New London's State Pier into a wind construction hub, with massive overruns pushing the cost to more than $310 million, does not exactly meet the definition of an architectural folly. That would be something built intentionally as a ruin, that has no other use than ornamental, something created to look like it once had a purpose and then fell into disuse. The state-rebuilt pier has indeed been put to some use for offshore wind construction, as intended. There are currently some wind turbine parts being moved through the port, but there's only one more project scheduled to use it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The long-term future use of the port for offshore wind use began to seem dubious when Gov. Ned Lamont chose earlier this year not to jump in with Rhode Island and Massachusetts in the last round of bidding for wind energy purchases, suggesting the price was too high. The foreign wind companies have said they need more federal subsidies to make the offshore endeavors less costly. It now looks like that certainly is not going to happen with Donald Trump in the White House. Rather than more subsidies I would expect to see a lot of obstruction from the federal government, and that's not promising for the wind merchants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are going to make sure that ends on day one," Trump said about offshore wind, while on the campaign trail last spring. The Danish utility rsted, which contributed a small share of the massive costs of State Pier, has a long lease for its use for offshore wind and a deal to contribute fees to New London while it deploys at the pier. But rsted didn't get any takers for its latest offer for offshore wind contracts. Its stock fell 14% the day after Trump was elected. I would bet it would be more likely in the near future to see federal assistance for transgender surgeries than subsidies for offshore wind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Pier was never needed for the development of offshore wind in the Northeast. The same work can be done in other places. The notion that Connecticut will become some kind of wind turbine manufacturing hub is still being pushed by Lamont, although the idea is more absurd than it ever was. He's even investing in the fantasy, putting money into a nonprofit to promote wind work manufacturing here. The nonprofit organized a junket touring facilities in Europe. I hope the taxpayer-funded trip was at least fun. Maybe the whole pier project, carried out with multiple scandals involving big contracts that went to Democratic insiders, all in the name of an expensive, unpopular industry dominated by foreign interests, is a good example of why Democrats failed so miserably in the election. State Pier may not have been built without a purpose, like a real architectural folly, but it looks like it may age as one, a modern industrial ruin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It does most certainly meet the other dictionary definition of folly as foolishness. I know Lamont's pier defenders will say it can be repurposed back into use for traditional cargo. They are already starting to deploy that argument, to excuse the terrible waste of money at the pier, chasing wind turbines. But way less money could have been spent for modern improvements to the historic port, with its previous design of double piers connected to rail lines, more useful for classic shipping. I can't help but think of all the ways the governor could have spent a couple of hundred million borrowed state dollars in the New London region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One much better project that comes to mind is the National Coast Guard Museum, which sure looks to be at risk for lack of funding. I don't have enough fingers on my hands to keep track of all the schedule delays. Even the latest round of $50 million in federal funding secured by Sen. Chris Murphy is not enough to finish the job, by the museum's own recent public reckoning. Indeed, they say they are still $50 million short of the final cost, a little more than they've been able to raise themselves after many years of trying. And as much as I enjoyed the spectacle of Murphy pulling that $50 million out of the federal budget hat, it wasn't nearly enough to finish the project. And I am pretty sure he won't be able to pull off that trick again, in Trump's Washington. This is the opinion of David Collins. d.collins@theday.com During Mitch McConnells first race for the Senate in 1984, President Ronald Reagan came to Kentucky and endorsed his good friend, Mitch ODonnell. Vice President George H.W. Bush identified McConnell, incorrectly, as the mayor of Louisville. Over the following four decades, no politician, Democrat or Republican, would make such a mistake again. And this week, McConnell stepped down as the longest-serving and one of the most historically important Senate leaders in history. During his tenure as leader, McConnell secured passage of important bipartisan legislation. He negotiated compromises with the Obama administration that prevented a default on federal government debt; extended the George W. Bush-era tax cuts; and bailed out the financial services industry during the Great Recession. He worked with President Biden to get the Infrastructure Bill, the CHIPS Act and military aid to Ukraine through the Senate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That said, as Michael Tackett implies in his new book, The Price of Power: How Mitch McConnell Mastered the Senate, Changed America, and Lost His Party, he has also caused considerable damage to democratic norms, practices and institutions. While he was in college, McConnell wrote that the American government should insure the BASIC RIGHTS OF ALL citizens, regardless of race, creed, or national origin. He voted for Lyndon Johnson because Barry Goldwater opposed civil rights legislation. In 2019 and 2020, however, McConnell refused to hold hearings on, let alone bring to the Senate floor, the Voting Rights Act passed by the House restoring the Department of Justices authority to pre-clear state voting laws that allegedly discriminate against people of color. McConnell insists that nobodys votes are being suppressed anywhere across America, in any of the states. But in 2021, the Brennan Center for Justice identified 253 bills introduced, pending or passed that restrict voting access in 43 states. In an op-ed published in 1973, McConnell claimed that the lack of an overall limit on spending is an open invitation for special interests to unduly influence candidates. We are close to being a bought nation, he added. He advocated excising the cancer of money in politics by publicly financing elections, limiting campaign contributions and mandating full disclosure by donors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two decades later, McConnell made an argument that, according to Tackett, became the heart of his political identity: Campaign spending is an act of free speech. He launched an all-out assault on the McCain-Feingold campaign finance bill. And he played a pivotal role in court challenges that resulted in Citizens United v. FEC, the Supreme Courts 2010 decision that paved the way for virtually unlimited and often undisclosed dark money political contributions from millionaires and billionaires in political action committees, operating under the fiction that they are not coordinating with candidates or political parties. Since then, campaign spending has skyrocketed, hitting a heretofore unimaginable $16 billion in the 2024 presidential and congressional races and showing no signs of leveling off. During the debate over Reagans nomination of Robert Bork to the Supreme Court in 1987, McConnell opined that senators should assess the character and professional qualifications of judicial nominees and defer to the president about their philosophy and ideology. Abiding by this standard to avoid gridlock, McConnell acknowledged, I put myself in the position maybe a couple of years from now, of having to choke it down and support a well-qualified nominee whose views I find completely inappropriate. When a Democrat was in the White House, however, McConnell jettisoned this view. He blocked dozens of Obamas nominees to federal courts. He is responsible for the appointment of almost as many appeals court judges during Trumps single term as in Obamas two terms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Justice Antonin Scalia died in February 2016, McConnell cited a rule that never existed a Supreme Court vacancy should not be filled during a presidential election year and refused to allow the Senate to consider Obamas nominee, Merrick Garland. In 2017, when Democrats filibustered Neil Gorsuch, Trumps choice to fill the seat, McConnell persuaded his colleagues to end the filibuster for Supreme Court nominees, and Gorsuch was confirmed by majority vote. When Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg died in September 2020, McConnell concocted another new rule: When the same party controls the Senate and the White House, proximity to a presidential election should not preclude consideration of a nominee. After a brief hearing, the Senate confirmed Amy Coney Barrett, giving the high court a conservative supermajority. A week after the Jan. 6, 2021 assault on the Capitol, McConnell acknowledged in an oral history interview that apparently you can impeach somebody after they leave office, and if that happens, theres a second vote in the Senate, which only has to pass by a simple majority, that prevents that person from seeking office again. If Trump hasnt committed indictable offenses, he subsequently told Tackett, I dont know what one is. But when the impeachment vote was called on Feb. 13, McConnell did another about-face and declared that the Constitution did not prescribe such a penalty once a president left office. Perhaps he was afraid to break with the vast majority of his Republican colleagues in the Senate and was betting that Trump had no future in politics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McConnell, it now seems clear, made a catastrophic miscalculation. For some reason, he also decided to endorse Trump for reelection in 2024. McConnell plans to serve out his term, which expires in 2027, albeit from a different seat in the Senate chamber. When he no longer has anything to lose, one wonders whether he will bend to the will of a president he has characterized as unfit for office, stupid, despicable, a sleaze ball, a narcissist, and just about every quality you would not want somebody to have. Glenn C. Altschuler is the Thomas and Dorothy Litwin Emeritus Professor of American Studies at Cornell University. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. As a physician who has dedicated my life to improving public health, I find myself deeply troubled and, frankly, alarmed at the prospect of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. becoming the secretary of Health and Human Services. This isnt just a matter of political disagreement. Its a scenario that could have profound, far-reaching consequences for the health and well-being of every American, including you and your loved ones. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is the principal agency for protecting the health of all Americans. It oversees critical institutions like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which are responsible for disease prevention, food and drug safety, medical research and implementing health policies that affect every American. Imagine a health care system where scientifically proven treatments are called into question, where long-established safety nets we take for granted are dismantled and where misinformation guides critical health policies. This isnt a dystopian fiction its a very real possibility if Kennedy assumes this pivotal role. One of the most alarming aspects of Kennedys potential appointment is his long-standing skepticism of vaccines. Despite overwhelming scientific evidence that supports the safety and efficacy of vaccines, Kennedy has repeatedly promoted debunked theories inaccurately linking vaccines to autism and other health issues. Although he told NPR that were not going to take vaccines away from anybody, thats small consolation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If he were to implement policies based on these unfounded beliefs, it could lead to, among other things, decreased vaccination rates, potentially causing outbreaks of preventable diseases; weakened immunization programs, putting vulnerable populations at risk; and erosion of public trust in vital health institutions. Over at the NIH and FDA, Kennedys skepticism toward established medical practices and pharmaceutical companies could lead to delays in drug approvals, potentially withholding lifesaving treatments from patients; reduced funding for critical medical research; and the promotion of unproven or dangerous alternative treatments. The FDA has drawn Kennedys particular attention, and he has said he intends to overhaul the agency, specifically its nutrition regulators. While improving our food system is a worthy goal, Kennedys approach, which includes promoting raw milk consumption, could expose Americans to increased risks from foodborne illnesses. Kennedys national reputation was built on his environmental advocacy, but even there his approach has been antiscientific. Should he bring his approach to chemical regulation to the role of HHS secretary, it could have unintended consequences. Without the proper scientific backing and research, overzealous regulation could impede the development of actually beneficial products and treatments. Perhaps most concerning is the potential for Kennedys views to shape broader public health policy. His stance on issues like water fluoridation, despite its proven benefits for dental health, could lead to policy changes that harm millions of Americans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The HHS secretary approves policies and decisions that have a direct effect on your daily life, such as the safety of the food you eat and the drugs you take; the availability and cost of health care services; the information you receive about health risks and preventive measures; and the funding and direction of medical research that can lead to new treatments for diseases. With Kennedys unscientific views guiding these decisions, it could mean less reliable health information from government sources; increased risk of infectious disease outbreaks in your community; reduced access to proven medical treatments; and higher health care costs due to ineffective policies. In an era when public health challenges are increasingly complex, we need leadership at HHS that is firmly grounded in scientific evidence and best practices. Kennedys appointment could undermine decades of progress in public health and put Americans at unnecessary risk. As a physician, I urge all Americans to consider the implications of this potential appointment carefully. The health and well-being of our nation depend on having leadership at HHS that respects and upholds scientific integrity and evidence-based practices. A role for healthy skepticism is appropriate, but our health and the health of our loved ones is too important to be guided by unfounded theories and misguided policies. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Since the election, a series of stories have proved if proof were needed that President-elect Donald Trumps campaign rhetoric about using the U.S. military against political opponents should be taken quite seriously. First, the Wall Street Journal reported that Trumps team is considering creating a board of retired senior officers to review serving generals and admirals. (MSNBC has not been able to confirm the report.) These were then followed by multiple reports of Trump planning to fire the most senior officers and replace them with generals and admirals more closely aligned with the president-elect. The third step was the naming of Fox News host Pete Hegseth as his choice for secretary of defense. Hegseth has made many extreme statements about the U.S. military, including questioning the efforts to build a diverse force. All together, these reports, if accurate, indicate that the long history of the United States having a nonpartisan military may be at an end. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why is this so important? First, keeping the U.S. military out of partisan battles and keeping partisan bickering out of the military has been key to American military might for generations. When political loyalty replaces merit for promotion and selection to key commands, effectiveness suffers. Such militaries are led not by the most qualified officers, but by those who have most professed fealty to the chief executive. Even the most competent of these officers are far more likely to make major mistakes as they try to anticipate what might curry favor with the president rather than focus their assessments on battlefield realities. The American military watched this dynamic firsthand when training the Iraqi forces in the late 2000s and early 2010s. When their officers were promoted based on merit, the Iraqis did well. But as partisan dynamics increasingly shaped promotions, the Iraqi army crumbled against the Islamic States attacks in 2014. Second, civilian control of the armed forces depends on officers giving professional advice to leadership so that the civilians can make the big decisions concerning when to go to war, where to focus ones efforts and so forth. Partisan generals and admirals would only tell the president what he wants to hear, making it more likely the U.S. blunders into a crisis. Again, we have seen this repeatedly happen around the world, including most recently with Russian generals telling Vladimir Putin that defeating Ukraine would be quick and easy. Third, making partisan identity more important within the armed forces threatens to disrupt the cohesion of American military units. The irony here is clear that those who have argued against women in combat roles and against efforts to create a diverse force, as Hegseth has, usually cite the threat these people pose to unit cohesion. Yet it is precisely the politicization of the military, making promotion contingent on partisan identity, that is most likely to create suspicion, distrust and rivalry within the American armed forces. Members of the armed forces will view the promotions of others as due to their political connections and loyalty to an individual and a party rather than to the Constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finally, the greatest danger is that the president might use American troops against the American people. Trump promised in his campaign to use the military against the enemy within, referring to his political foes. While the National Guard has been called out frequently in American history to deal with natural disasters and riots, the regular forces have been used rarely over the past hundred years. Famously, presidents from both parties, Dwight D. Eisenhower and John F. Kennedy, called out the U.S. Army to enforce the Supreme Courts rulings on integrating schools. In neither case was the military using force against the presidents opponents, but instead enforcing the courts decisions at a time when the court was not seen as a partisan actor. Trump, by contrast, threatened to use the Insurrection Act in 2020 to deploy the military against those protesting police brutality. With a much more compliant secretary of defense and with more partisan generals, after purging those who were promoted via normal procedures, Trump is far more likely to use the Army to put down protests in his second term. This, in turn, would divide the military, as not all members will follow such orders even if they are lawful. In addition, another pattern of civil-military relations is that the more a military is used for domestic order, the less effective it is at fighting foes abroad. The strains and divisions and distractions are simply bad for military effectiveness. While the second Trump administration has not begun formally, its early preparations indicate a desire and, yes, a plan to make the military subservient to one politician and one party, rather than serving the country and the national interest. This will be more harmful to the American military than the defeat in Vietnam or the withdrawal from Afghanistan. And it will weaken U.S. standing in the world even as Americas adversaries are increasingly aggressive. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com The American people elected Donald Trump as the 47th president in one of the most remarkable political comebacks in modern U.S. history. Despite all the controversy and his polarizing personality, there is a silver lining in his return to the White House. Middle Eastern leaders have already shown respect for his return to governance. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Qatari Emir Sheikh Al-Thani, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and so many others have congratulated Trump on his victory. For the first time since the Gaza war, Morocco has also reasserted its ties with Israel. Whether it be traditional politicking or genuine satisfaction with the outcome of the American election, Middle Eastern leaders respect Trump and fear his unpredictability and strength. Though Trump is a master of theatrics, his first term showed he was unafraid to act decisively notably with the historic Abraham Accords and the elimination of Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This combination of bold talk and action resonates in the Middle East, where strength of voice and initiative is the lingua franca. In the U.S., many Americans struggle to see the value of a strongmans return to the White House for reestablishing deterrence and bolstering U.S. foreign policy. Although many Americans find Trumps style distasteful, he can improve by speaking more frequently about the successes of his first-term Middle East policies and clarifying how his approach enhances alliances and deters adversaries. Even Arab Americans emerged from the election with such realizations. In stark contrast to 2020, when Arab Americans overwhelmingly backed President Biden, Arab Americans favored Trump over Vice President Kamala Harris in this election. Dearborn, Mich., characterized as Americas Jihad Capital in a Wall Street Journal op-ed, went red. In a remarkable turnaround, they voted in common cause with a candidate holding an ironclad pro-Israel stance and who enacted the short-lived Muslim Ban in 2017. Additionally, throughout his campaign, Trump pledged to give Israel free rein to get the job done and urged Netanyahu to finish the war quickly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democratic Arab-American mayor Amer Ghalib of Hamtramck, Mich., endorsed Trump, citing his hope for Middle East peace while feeling neglected by the other side, which is to say, the Democrats. The priority for [our community] at this time is accomplishing a cease-fire and bringing peace to the Middle East, said Ghalib. Kamala Harris has been in the office for the past three years and during the whole year of war in the Middle Eastbut nothing was happening. Trump has affirmed his commitment, writing on X that he would bring safety and security to the Middle East and stop the suffering and destruction in Lebanon. The Biden administrations rhetorical support for Israels offensives in Gaza and Lebanon amid its failure to end the war surely altered the Arab American decision this election. The Biden-Harris administration drastically failed to bring stability to the region in the aftermath of Oct. 7, like when it threatened to condition resources to Israel if the Israel Defense Forces launched an operation in Rafah but, in the end, did not. Another instance is when it delisted the Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organization in 2021, then re-listed it as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist group in early 2024. The Houthis are the Yemeni militaristic faction that attacks American assets across the Middle East and whose slogan is Death to America, Death to Israel, Death to the Jews. Middle Eastern leaders, Arab and Israeli alike, have internalized the policy flip-flops that diminished the Biden-Harris administrations credibility. The Middle Eastern mindset is not built for games. A commitment is serious, a commitment means business. Domestically, the Biden-Harris administration has continued to play diplomatic ping-pong between Jewish, pro-Israeli audiences and their anti-Israel, progressive supporters. Not even agreeing with an anti-Israel protestor that the genocide of Palestinians was real at a campaign event in Wisconsin last month helped Kamala Harris. Harriss attempt to appeal to both sides, including by running different targeted ads for Arab and Jewish American audiences in Michigan and Pennsylvania, did not help her case either. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Jewish American vote diverged from the Arab vote. Despite pre-election speculation of a potential rightward shift due to Republican stances on Israel and antisemitism along with the Democratic Partys failures to address antisemitism and arguable tolerance for it maintained their traditional leftward lean in voting for Harris. This, despite Trumps record on Israel during his first term. In his prior term, Trump moved the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem, withdrew from the disastrous Iran nuclear deal and recognized the Golan Heights as Israeli territory. In 2018, he halted funding to the United Refugee and Works Agency (UNRWA) that contributed to the Palestinian pipeline of terror that was partly responsible for the Oct. 7 massacre. He also signed a 2019 executive order on combating antisemitism, extending Title VI protections to antisemitic behaviors per the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition. In this term, hes recommitted to defunding UNRWA, pledged to remove accreditation of universities that fail to address antisemitism and said he would deport non-citizens participating in unlawful pro-Hamas protests. Although Biden has been a strong Zionist throughout his political career, the Biden-Harris administrations approach to de-escalate the Israel-Hamas conflict has inadvertently allowed it to escalate. The Biden administration has sought to appease Iran and its proxies by pursuing a failed reentry into the Iran nuclear deal and funneled $100 billion to the Ayatollahs regime, providing the financial incentive for aggression. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under Biden, the U.S. built the Gaza pier to facilitate the supply of aid but could not protect it from Palestinian looting; now, the Biden administration blames Israel for increasing suffering by limiting aid to Gaza. Most of all, the Biden administration has continued to restrain Netanyahu from directly addressing the threat, which is ongoing, following the successful eliminations of Hezbollahs leader Hassan Nasrallah and Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar and Ismail Haniyeh. Just before Winston Churchill was set to succeed British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain in May of 1940, he said Appeasers feed a crocodile hoping it will eat him last. The Biden-Harris administration has fed the crocodile empowering terrorist leaders, enablers and supporters which has come back to bite on our American campuses and city streets. As the leader of a global superpower, Trump has the opportunity to show Arab and Jewish Americans that the U.S.s democratic choice benefits Israel, the broader Middle East and America. There may be other issues on which Americans deeply disagree with Trump, however, foreign policy must be a priority this presidential term to secure the global order. Many Americans, notably Jewish Americans, must realize that peace through strength is given the circumstances the best way forward. Trump must prioritize communication about his policies, using his theatrical strongman style strategically to his, and Americas, benefit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sabrina Soffer is a senior at George Washington University. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Trusting Russias autocrat Vladimir Putin on Ukraine or anything of any significance to him is like trusting his role model, Joseph Stalin. Life under Stalin-imposed communism in Poland and years of news reporting have taught me that any trust put in the ex-KGB spy currently calling the shots in the Kremlin is going to end badly for President-elect Trump, Vice President-elect Vance, the Republican Party and the American people. Consider what President Franklin Roosevelts naive trust in Stalin did to millions of East Europeans who lost their lives or spent decades in fear and poverty under communism after FDR had sold them down the river to the Soviet dictator. The Yalta Agreement he signed in 1944 with Stalin failed to bring lasting peace as FDR had naively hoped it would. Russia and communist China initiated proxy wars with the U.S. in Korea and Vietnam, in which tens of thousands of Americans were to lose their lives. At the same time, the Red Army brutally suppressed anti-Soviet uprisings in East Germany and Hungary and the peaceful Prague Spring in Czechoslovakia. Putin, who had served the brutal Soviet regime as a spy, knows how to manipulate naive leaders, journalists, and ordinary citizens of Western nations. He learned his craft from his KGB spymasters, who learned it from Lenin and Stalin. It is indeed puzzling why some conservative Republicans allowed themselves to be deceived by Russian propaganda that this ex-communist spy is now a reborn Christian who wants nothing but peace and good relations with the U.S. Soviet dictators knew that lying and blackmail gave them a significant advantage over the West. They also knew that Westerners craving money and fame or being blinded by ideology could easily be bought and duped. Grateful for helping him hide his responsibility for the Katyn massacre, in which thousands of captured Polish military officers were massacred during World War II, Stalin gave as gifts two cavalry horses to FDRs wartime ambassador to Moscow, W. Averell Harriman, and his daughter, Kathleen, who freelanced for the U.S. government as a journalist. Earlier, the Soviet secret police had corrupted Pulitzer Prize New York Times Moscow correspondent Walter Duranty and several of his Western colleagues to get them to deny that millions of Ukrainians had starved to death in the early 1930s after the Bolsheviks took their farms. I understand why Trump does not like wars. Most Americans want peace between Russia and Ukraine. But if the U.S. forces Ukraine to capitulate to Putins demands, it will only give him time to rebuild his army to launch more low-scale aggressive wars. They will not amount to World War III Armageddon, as he likes to bluff. Putin is not such a great fool as to attack any NATO country, now or in the future. But he will continue his hybrid war against the U.S. using his Iranian and Hamas allies and employing other means to divide and weaken the West. The good news is that dictators come and go. When Mikhail Gorbachev emerged in the old USSR, Margaret Thatcher and President Reagan decided they could do business with him. Still, even then, Reagan said, Trust but Verify. Before negotiating, he called Russia The Evil Empire and demanded, Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall. Putin is no Gorbachev. There is no way to verify his promises. Trusting Putin, Trump risks a repetition of President Obamas 2009 Reset with Russia, which rewarded Putins grab of Georgias border regions in 2008. Ignoring warnings from East European anti-Soviet resistance leaders Lech Waesa and Vaclav Havel, Obama wanted to be conciliatory and generous. Putin repaid him by invading and annexing Crimea in 2014. For now, the heavy toll of war on ordinary Ukrainians and Russians continues. If there is to be peace, only the Ukrainian people can decide the terms of any agreement with Russia. Otherwise, it would be a betrayal of the brave Ukrainians who are making heroic sacrifices to defend their country. An American capitulation to Putin would also betray Poland, the Baltic States, the Czech Republic and other loyal NATO allies. Suppose President-Elect Trumps future administration tries to reach a deal with Putin without Ukraines approval, as FDR did with Stalin without agreement from the people of Poland and other East-Central European nations. If that happens, most Americans will see a betrayal of American values and sooner or later punish the Republican Party at the polls just as American voters of East European extraction punished the Democrats when FDRs Yalta sellout became widely known. In his speech in Warsaw in July 2017, near the beginning of his first term, Trump talked about the 1939 deal between Hitler and Stalin that led to the outbreak of World War II and the division of Poland between Nazi Germany and Soviet Russia. He also mentioned how Stalin ordered the Red Army to stop its advance in August 1944 so that the Germans could exterminate Polish leaders and soldiers fighting in the anti-Nazi Warsaw Uprising. Putin will behave like Stalin. Just as FDRs faith in Stalin did not turn out well for the Democrats and the free world, giving in to Putins imperial ambitions would not only be bad for Trump and the Republican Party. It would also destroy the international order, weaken the U.S. and strengthen Russia and China. Ted Lipien was chief of Voice of Americas Polish service during Polands successful struggle for democracy. He later served as VOAs acting associate director and president of Radio Free Europe-Radio Liberty. Journalists are migrating there en masse. Celebrity actors and musicians are flooding in. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., has joined the party, and the New York City mayors office is ordering agencies to set up camp. Theyre calling it the #Xodus, and its happening fast. Millions of social media junkies and power users are pivoting from using X, Elon Musks social media platform, to setting up accounts on Bluesky, a buzzy platform that resembles the earlier days of Twitter before Musk rendered it a technically unusable mess and an untrustworthy platform. Bluesky was developed in recent years by Jack Dorsey, a co-founder of Twitter, as a kind of open and decentralized alternative to Twitter. (Dorsey has since left the board of Bluesky.) In terms of the basic user experience and design of the site, it looks a lot like Twitter used to in the pre-Musk era. Bluesky had an invite-only beta launch in 2023, and in February it became available to the general public. While it has grown throughout the year, it has seen a meteoric explosion in sign-ups after the election. And with media organizations and politicians now setting up accounts on the site, it looks like Bluesky is exuding official new alternative to Twitter vibes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are a lot of reasons that people are fleeing X, and I dont agree with all of them. But I can say my personal experience on the site since Musk bought Twitter in 2022 (after which he renamed it X) has been deeply disheartening, and at times enraging. Changes to the algorithms and default user feed means I am constantly wading through a nauseating torrent of misinformation, rage bait, demagogic pundits, product placement for Musks other companies and imbecilic short videos that skew violent and prurient. The default feed is labeled for you, but compared to most social media Ive used, the algorithm has no understanding of my interests. Instead, it's just the most vulgar bid for generic user attention imaginable. Beyond the disastrous for you feed, X has become insufferable to read. The company's decision to shove as many ads as possible into the interface frequently makes it impossible to tell if Im reading a post or an advertisement. (There is no evidence that the visual assault of ads has helped Musk recover the gigantic share of ad revenue he has lost as he has ruined the platform.) Despite the fact that one of Musks premises for buying Twitter was to improve the platforms bot problem, bots now dominate the user experience on a level Ive never experienced before on the site or anywhere else I frequent on the internet. And Musks decision to gut Twitters verified badge policy has made it far harder for me to use the site to track reliable real-time reporting and separate rumor from fact. Musk has also said he downgrades the visibility of posts with links because he doesnt want people to leave the site so posts linking to legitimate news articles get buried under clickbait posts. Meanwhile Musk has tweaked the sites algorithm to prioritize his own posts, amplifying his power as a colossal purveyor of misinformation and far-right propaganda. As of late it feels like posting is pointless. Despite having thousands of followers, the engagement on my posts has plunged, and my average post seems to disappear into the ether unnoticed. When I do get engagement, a good portion of the time its a bot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is, if its not a bigoted, disparaging remark. Due to a combination of Musk reinstating verified pro-Nazi accounts, the growing popularity of X as a platform for extremist and antisocial right-wingers, and his paring back of features and resources designed to reduce abuse, X has become a miserable place brimming with venomous racists, misogynists, transphobes and trolls of every stripe. While receiving profane insults and racism is something Ive always experienced as a journalist, Ive noticed a big uptick of it in my daily experience on X. This isn't political dialogue, it's just being on the receiving end of misanthropy and hatred. This is not simply the cost of "free speech." X does have anti-harassment policies and does suspend accounts for violating rules, it's just that these rules are enforced poorly and unpredictably and are limited in their ability to mitigate a platform-wide culture of trolling. Moreover, Musk's free speech narrative is a facade. Musk has shown a pattern of suspending accounts in a manner that appears to align with a right-wing political agenda. He also selectively upholds free-speech principles in different countries in a manner that reflects what could be his perceived political and business interests. And Musk's decision to become an all-out Trump activist and to work with the Trump administration underscores that he is compromised as a independent arbiter of speech. As X has slid into dysfunctionality and extreme unpleasantness, Bluesky has emerged as an attractive alternative. It represents a return to basic, commonsense principles of text-based social media. Its easy to use and navigate, it has good tools for reducing harassment, the default feed is a simple chronological set of posts. Posts are not swarmed by porn bots, bigoted trolls and strange native advertising. Even though I have a fraction of my old following on my new account at Bluesky, my engagement is already much higher. Some people have tried criticizing the exodus from X as a desire for people on the left to retreat to safe spaces and ideological echo chambers. (Not everyone heading to Bluesky is on the left, but its a crowd that leans to the left overall.) I can say unequivocally that is not the case for me. I enjoy reading and talking with people across the political spectrum, and I would prefer to spend most my time on a platform with maximum ideological diversity. Im not sick of X because it has people I disagree with on it. Im sick of X because it sucks. A reactionary billionaire with no commitment to free speech or user experience has taken a wrecking ball to a once flawed but invaluable digital commons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I havent sworn off using X entirely, but it wont be a place I will invest as much time as I once did. Nor do I assume Bluesky will be a a perfect haven it is run by a corporation after all. But for now Ill mostly read people across the political spectrum outside of X, and lean into having conversations online in a place that functions closer to the way a public square ought to. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Its been a little over a month since Central Florida saw heavy rainfall and damaging winds during Hurricane Milton, and now residents in Orange County are just sitting and waiting for piles of debris to be picked up. Literally, every home in this neighborhood, Wingrove Estates, has got a bundle of debris thats just been sitting out front, said Mitch Frank, Orange County Resident. Frank reached out to Channel 9 after realizing that no moves had been made in his neighborhood to collect the storm debris. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There truly was an unavialability in which case I would have really appriciated getting something in the mail telling me, said Frank. Frank said after speaking to the county, he was told that there were only two contractors working to collect in the county and that 15% of the county had been collected. According to Orange County, as of November 5th, 34,000 cubic yards of storm debris has been picked up. Via social media, the county said debris pick-up is six days a week from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm. I mean, for you to even think that it would take that long, thats heartbreaking in a sense because, you know, stuff like this should be done at a moments notice or as soon as it can be done, said Frank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read: Tropics Update: Tropical Storm Sara expected to disappear within the next 24 hours The countys interactive map shows a large portion of the county still in t the process of being picked up. Orange County said if your debris is small, you can follow the solid waste guidelines for regular yard waste, and they will pick it up. Even if things dont change, I dont have great faith that they will get it done by christmas, said Frank. As curbside debris recovery continues, Osceola County offers free yard waste drop-off sites for residents to dispose of their hurricane debris. 3511 Pug Mill Rd, Kissimmee, FL 34741 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Open this weekend, Saturday, November 16th Sunday, November 17th, 2024. Hours: 7:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. Read: Single vehicle fatally crashes into pole in Pine Hills Rules for disposal Vegetative debris only Must have valid county ID NO fresh green yard waste fresh cut debris will NOT be accepted Absolutely no business or commercial vehicles In the meantime, officials ask for patience, as the pick-up takes longer than expected. Read: Police: Man at large after an armed robbery at a liquor store in Mount Dora Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. An employee of a restaurant in Orange County died on Saturday after he fell off a ladder, according to authorities. The incident was reported at about 7:52 a.m. on the 3300 block of Bristol Street in Costa Mesa, according to Costa Mesa Police and Fire Rescue. Authorities said the employee, identified only as a 32-year-old man, fell from a roof while climbing down a ladder. Worker killed in construction accident at Orange County high school Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He suffered severe head trauma and was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities didnt say which restaurant he worked for. His identity has not yet been released. According to police, officers do not believe this is a suspicious death, and its being investigated as an accident. No additional details were immediately made available. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. As prices for almost everything goes up, people are stuck choosing what necessities are more than others, including food. Four months ago, The Osceola Response Team started a program called Open The Freezer. Its a concept that allows people who need food to take what they need whenever they want. No questions asked. Its either rent or food, so theyre paying their rent and going without food. No, we stopped that, said Richard Herr, Director of the Osceola Response Team. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Herr said he started the program after seeing the prices of food climb and noticing people around the county in need of food. He said he thought back to the memories of his mother shouting at him to close the freezer and decided to buy freezers in hopes that people would take food for nourishment or donate to keep the program moving. Every city in every county doesnt want to see people starving, nor do they want to see them on the side of the road. But if you have no food, you may end up on the side of the road asking somebody. This, to me, eliminates that, said Herr. Read: Orange County residents are still waiting for Hurricane Milton debris to be collected a month later According to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, 1 in 8 people and 1 in 6 children face hunger. Both Marion and Osceola Counties have higher rates of food insecurity than the national average of 13.5%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far, there are five freezer locations the non-profit has disburbed across Osceola County, with a sixth location in the works. -Abracadabra Ice Cream Factory in Kissimmee:11 am -11 pm -Grannys Southern Smokehouse in St. Cloud: Open 24 hours Read: Tropics Update: Tropical Storm Sara expected to disappear within the next 24 hours -Green Machine services in Kissimmee: Open 24hours -Homepride Group Reality in St. Cloud: Open 24 hours -Kwik Stop at 2331 Old Dixie Highway in Kissimmee: Open 8 am to 8 pm -Pray 1 Thrift Store at 8553 US-192, Kissimmee: Open 24 hours Each location has a pantry for non-perishable items as well. Herr said the team fills each of the locations every other day, and with the help of donations, hes looking to be able to fill them more often. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Herr said people can also donate to the program by placing food in the freezers or donating to the cause by scanning a code on any freezer or through the website. Read: Single vehicle fatally crashes into pole in Pine Hills Click here to download our free news, weather, and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Ahead of the assembly polls, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said on Sunday that it has been decided to buy cotton and soybeans with 15 per cent moisture following his recent discussion with Union agriculture Minister. CM Shinde also said that women are satisfied with the Ladki Behan Yojana. "I have recently had a discussion with the Union Agriculture Minister on the issues faced by cotton and soybean farmers. It has been decided to immediately give MSP to the farmers. It has also been decided to buy cotton and soybeans with 15 per cent moisture. MSP of soybean is currently at Rs 1892 per quintal, cotton Rs 7121, and dry cotton Rs 7529...," CM Shinde told reporters here. "All the government schemes have had a positive impact in Maharashtra. Women are happy with the Ladki Behan Yojana and other schemes, so I think that the government of Mahayuti will be formed," CM Shinde added. Meanwhile, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday addressed the media and spoke on additional Rs 5,000 hectares in the bank accounts of soyabean and cotton cultivators. "Soyabean and cotton cultivators are being given an additional Rs 5,000 hectare in their accounts. The import duty on edible oils from Malaysia and Indonesia has also been effectively increased to 27.5 per cent so that the oil mills in the domestic markets purchase soyabeans from the domestic farmers and pay them the right price to benefit them. The moisture content in the soyabeans during the procurement has also been increased from 12 percent to 15 percent," he added. The Union Minister also spoke about the Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana. The Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana is a program in which the government compensates farmers for the difference between MSP and rate at which the farmers sell their crops, which is relatively higher. "One of our schemes is the Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana. It depends on the government on how whether they want to directly buy supplies or use the MSP and deposit the money in the farmers account. In the second scheme, the ICAR will determine the model rate for crops like potatoes, onions and tomatoes and give a 50 percent profit on the production cost. This will help the farmers not face losses when retail costs are lower. Another scheme is for the transportation costs. So our scheme says that the government will brunt the transportation costs that the farmers earlier used to pay," he said. Soybean, a key cash crop, is primarily grown ahead of Diwali, as it provides farmers with immediate liquidity during the festive season. The Vidarbha and Marathwada regions are particularly significant for soybean cultivationNotably, Maharashtra, which is going to the Assembly polls on November 20, is a key grower of soybeans. In the 2019 Maharashtra assembly elections, the BJP won 105 seats, Shiv Sena secured 56, and Congress 44. In 2014, the BJP won 122 seats, Shiv Sena 63, and Congress 42. (ANI) GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM Overnight ambassador team members encounter homeless people on their walking patrol of Waikiki beaches and Kalakaua Avenue early Friday morning. Here, Joshua Lewis, left, Antonio Tiny Patton and Chris Aki walk along Kalakaua Avenue. 1 /4 GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM Overnight ambassador team members encounter homeless people on their walking patrol of Waikiki beaches and Kalakaua Avenue early Friday morning. Here, Joshua Lewis, left, Antonio Tiny Patton and Chris Aki walk along Kalakaua Avenue. GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM Overnight ambassadors team members, Antonio Tiny Patton, left, Joshua Lewis and Chris Aki met with Trevor Abarzua shortly before starting a walking patrol of Waikiki beaches and Kalakaua Avenue Thursday night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2 /4 GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM Overnight ambassadors team members, Antonio Tiny Patton, left, Joshua Lewis and Chris Aki met with Trevor Abarzua shortly before starting a walking patrol of Waikiki beaches and Kalakaua Avenue Thursday night. GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM A person rests on a Kalakaua Avenue bench early Friday morning in Waikiki. 3 /4 GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM A person rests on a Kalakaua Avenue bench early Friday morning in Waikiki. GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM Overnight ambassador Antonio Tiny Patton checks on a man at the closed beach early Friday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 4 /4 GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM Overnight ambassador Antonio Tiny Patton checks on a man at the closed beach early Friday morning. GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM Overnight ambassador team members encounter homeless people on their walking patrol of Waikiki beaches and Kalakaua Avenue early Friday morning. Here, Joshua Lewis, left, Antonio Tiny Patton and Chris Aki walk along Kalakaua Avenue. GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM Overnight ambassadors team members, Antonio Tiny Patton, left, Joshua Lewis and Chris Aki met with Trevor Abarzua shortly before starting a walking patrol of Waikiki beaches and Kalakaua Avenue Thursday night. GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM A person rests on a Kalakaua Avenue bench early Friday morning in Waikiki. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @STARADVERTISER.COM Overnight ambassador Antonio Tiny Patton checks on a man at the closed beach early Friday morning. Overnight aloha ambassador Antonio Tiny Payton knocked on the door of the public bathrooms at Kuhio Beach Park in Waikiki at midnight, opened the door a crack and shone a flashlight into the restroom. Aloha, the beach park closing, Payton said during his shift that began late Thursday night. A few moments later a homeless woman with a backpack emerged and headed away from a relatively empty Kuhio Beach. The restrooms and beaches used to be filled with overnight sleepers and late-night visitors but the numbers have come down considerably since this past summer, when the city Department of Parks and Recreation began closing Kuhio Beach two hours earlier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If its tourists or locals or homeless, we greet them with respect, Payton said. I notice using the word aloha first off, it lightens them, it puts a glow on their face so that aloha softens the blow of letting them know that the beach is now closed from midnight to 5 a.m. from the shoreline all the way to the sidewalk including the beaches, the benches and the park area. The expanded beach closure hours augment Safe & Sound Waikiki, a crime reduction and human services program that began in September 2022, coinciding with the start of the Waikiki Business Improvement Districts overnight ambassador program that assigns two safety ambassadors and a human services outreach coordinator to an overnight patrol to uphold park rules, guiding individuals toward safer behaviors and resources. Don 't miss out on what 's happening ! Stay in touch with top news, as it happens, conveniently in your email inbox. It 's FREE ! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Email 28141 Sign Up By clicking to sign up, you agree to Star-Advertiser 's and Google 's and. This form is protected by reCAPTCHA. Through proactive encounters, the team assists tourists with safety reminders and supports vulnerable individuals seeking services, said Trevor Abarzua, WBID president and executive director. This creates a welcoming environment that balances safety, compassion and community support. Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm said the overnight ambassadors complement Safe & Sound Waikiki, which is patterned after Weed & Seed, a multi agency strategy to control and prevent violent crime, drug trafficking and drug-related crime in targeted neighborhoods. Safe & Sound aims to make Waikiki safe by reducing crime, and sound through social service partnerships that serve the community. Abarzua said the overnight ambassadors program, which uses paid staff, has helped to reduce the count of homeless people sleeping outdoors in Waikiki from 213 to 183, a 27 % reduction from the start of Safe & Sound Waikiki some two years ago, and a 14 % reduction since June when the overnight ambassador team began supplementing WBIDs Safe & Sound partnerships with the Institute for Human Services, the Honolulu Police Department and the citys Department of the Prosecuting Attorney. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alm said the first focus for Safe & Sound was to reduce crime by getting habitual offenders off the street and urging tougher sentencing for those using Waikiki to commit crimes of opportunity, including geographic restrictions when appropriate. According to Alm, over the past two years, reports of robbery dropped 19 %, while burglary reports fell 30 %, auto theft declined 21 % and vehicle break-ins decreased 38 %. We did see disorderly conduct reports increase by 17 %, but I think thats OK because that means police are arresting troublemakers and being very proactive, he said. Im really pleased with Safe & Sound Waikiki results. It just shows the collaborative efforts of everyone are working. Police Maj. Bradon Ogata, commander of District 6, which includes the tourism hub, said in an email that HPD is working with WBID and other partners to proactively address concerns at an early stage, including holding criminal offenders accountable for their actions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ogata said the aloha ambassadors have proven very helpful. They assist the public by answering questions on a wide range of topics, including basic safety tips, park rules and bicycle laws, he said. Aloha ambassadors assist the police by acting as witnesses and extra observers out in the community. Their presence is definitely an asset to Waikiki. Expansion sought Since June, WBIDs overnight team, which consists of two safety ambassadors and an outreach ambassador, has been patrolling from 10 :30 p.m. to 6 :30 a.m. daily to provide an extra layer of security at Kuhio Beach Park and along Kalakaua Avenue. Abarzua said that during the teams first quarter, which ended in October, the team conducted 115 interactions with homeless individuals in Waikiki, connecting 25 of them to case managers. Some 21 homeless individuals were transitioned to long-term or short-term shelter, and five others to respite or stabilization centers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Abarzua, the new overnight ambassador program was funded with a $200, 000 grant from Mayor Rick Blangiardis office and supplements the work of Katie Kaahanui, executive coordinator for Safe & Sound Waikiki, as well as the outreach and street medicine work that WBID pays IHS $115, 000 to do in the district. These initiatives are paying off, he said. The current level of unsheltered homelessness in Waikiki, Abarzua said, is the lowest the University of Hawaii and Karl Kim, a professor in the UH Department of Urban and Regional Planning, have noted in the past 18 years they have partnered with WBID to track and analyze homeless patterns within Waikiki. But he added that more needs to be done. We are very proud of the results, but there are still 183 people sleeping outside in Waikiki, Abarzua said. They are part of our community too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said WBID is pursuing additional grants and funding to expand the number of overnight ambassadors and the area they cover. He would like to add overnight ambassadors to Kuhio Avenue and seek partnerships with Waikikis business owners to expand jurisdiction onto private property. Abarzua said private businesses without overnight security are more likely to struggle with after-hours occupation by homeless individuals. Changing lives Joshua Lewis, who was working a shift as an overnight safety ambassador Thursday, said more than 80 % of the homeless individuals the team encounters in Waikiki refuse services, often because they have a mental illness or other challenges. If they are a little off, we will feel them out. Sometimes they can be acting, but if we can see that there is really a problem we will get the Honolulu Police Department involved, or if they seem really helpless, well try to get Emergency Medical Services here first, he said. Christopher Aki, who was working as an overnight outreach ambassador Thursday, said the team will collect data on those who need assistance but arent an immediate threat to themselves or others. The information is passed on the next morning to an on-staff outreach counselor who will try to set up a meeting with them. Abarzua said WBID also hopes to increase its partnerships to include more doctors to provide street medicine and attorneys to help support assisted community treatment petitions for court-ordered treatment. Since November 2023, street doctors working with IHS have administered antipsychotic medication shots to more than 50 homeless individuals in Waikiki, he said. Sometimes individuals who have built a rapport with outreach workers will consent to medical treatment, but others will need court urging, which has yielded positive results, according to Abarzua. We recently received a picture of one man that was treated through (assisted community treatment ). He was all cleaned up and going to a job interview, he said. Weve had some amazing results that have changed lives. Treatment often needed Such successes are especially rewarding for overnight ambassadors like Jason Martin, who was once homeless himself and now supervises an overnight crew. Ive been there. I know the challenges that homelessness brings. As long as I can connect them with our daytime outreach and they are willing to put in the work, outcomes are usually positive, Martin said in a video statement. Abarzua said the team recently was able to help a newly widowed woman in her 60s, who became homeless in Kuhio Beach Park after she ran out of money after flying to Honolulu from the mainland on a whim following the death of her husband. She wanted to be here because they had honeymooned here 30 years ago. But she arrived without making a hotel reservation and only had $100, he said. She was on the beach and she was sad and in need of assistance. Our team was able connect her to outreach and help her get back to her daughter. Alm said from the start, Safe & Sound Waikiki organizers knew that services for homeless people as well as those contending with mental health and addiction challenges needed priority. His department is supporting a jail diversion program that tries to divert the seriously mentally ill from the criminal justice system. This is mostly for misdemeanors and petty misdemeanors, because this is often how people who are seriously mentally ill end up getting in trouble with law enforcement, Alm said. They urinate in public, they may be striking out at people. He added that he also has expanded the Substance Use Disorder Assessment-Fast, or SUDA-Fast, program into Waikiki. The program works to get people who are homeless and get arrested for drug possession quickly assessed and into treatment before they are sentenced to probation. People who are chronically homeless, almost all of them have drug or alcohol or mental health problems, he said. In order for them to get off the street and stay off the street, they really need to get into treatment. SAFE & SOUND WAIKIKI There has been a reduction in crime in the two years since the start of the program CRIME SEPTEMBER 2022 SEPTEMBER 2024 % CHANGE Robbery . 150 121 -19 % Burglary . 374 .. 263 -30 % Auto theft . 755 .. 593 21 % Vehicle break-ins .. 722 .. 449 -38 % Source : Waikiki Safe & Sound Even Matt Gaetzs father was shocked by the controversy-stricken congressmans nomination for Attorney General by President-elect Donald Trump. Don Gaetz, a Florida state Senator himself, said that he and Matts mother really had no prior warning about their sons nomination, and only learned about the offer when he called them. I think its fair to say Matt was not seeking the job, he told Politico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement News of Matts nomination sparked immediate backlash from politicians across the aisle, having spent much of his time in Congress infuriating his fellow Congress members by quarrelling on the House floor and leading the coup against dormer House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE) told reporters he had no good comment on Trumps decision whereas Rep. John Duarte (R-CA) told Axios that the Matt would be a compromised AG. Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) is seen during preparations on the second day of the Republican National Convention. Matt was also found the subject of two-year House ethics probe into several allegations including that Matt had sex with a minor. A past investigation into these accusations by the Department of Justice ended with no federal charged. Calls for the House Ethics Committee to release its report, which reportedly include testimony from his underage accuser, have grown since his nomination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Don, however, dismissed his sons checkered history in elected office, claiming Hes been investigated by everyone for more than two years and theres never been any reason to be charged with anything and hes denied all these fraudulent politically motivated allegations. A longtime political powerbroker in Florida, Don is no stranger to controversy, having challenged other powerful Republicans like then-Gov. Rick Scott. His and Scotts bickering led to the former governor blocking Dons bid for president of the University of West Florida. Florida Sen. Don Gaetz speaks to state legislators in Tallahassee, Florida. Don, however, seemed confident in his sons ability to weather what is anticipated to be a rocky Senate confirmation battle, a process he called a dice roll At least 10 GOP senators said they would not vote to confirm Gaetz as attorney general. And, newly elected Senate majority leader Sen. John Cornyn said he absolutely still wants to review Matts unreleased ethics probe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, Don said Matt is a guy who has always looked for an opportunity to be an advocate for the issues he cares about. Hes been a strong supporter of the president ... and a harsh critic of Biden-Harris administration, he continued. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Sunday faced mounting pressure from within his party to clear the way for Defence Minister Boris Pistorius to run as the Social Democrats (SPD) candidate for chancellor in the upcoming elections. Joe Weingarten and Johannes Arlt became the first SPD members of parliament to call publicly for Pistorius, who is far more popular than Scholz in opinion polls, to run for chancellor. "It is my clear opinion that we should go into the election campaign with Boris Pistorius," Weingarten told the Suddeutsche Zeitung newspaper on Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shortly afterwards, Arlt told the Tagesspiegel newspaper: "Boris Pistorius would be an excellent SPD chancellor candidate. In my opinion, he is ideally suited to lead our party into the election campaign." Arlt added that Pistorius holds "the most difficult ministerial office" and can "explain political decisions to people in simple, clear terms." Scholz announced his intention to run again for the top job in July, months before the collapse of his coalition last week set the country on its path towards early elections, now expected in February instead of September. The chancellor has stood firmly behind his plans. "The SPD and I are ready to go into this debate, with the aim of winning, by the way," he said before flying to Brazil for the G20 summit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The party leadership and Pistorius himself have repeatedly assured Scholz of their backing. "Olaf Scholz is the chancellor. And everyone who has responsibility in the SPD has made it clear in recent days that we stand behind him," SPD co-leader Lars Klingbeil said on Saturday. Pistorius reaffirmed his support for the chancellor on Sunday. "We have a truly outstanding chancellor who, in one of the most difficult times in the history of the republic, took the reins in a difficult three-way constellation," he told the public broadcaster ARD. He added that he "still firmly expects that Olaf Scholz will be nominated." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pistorius said the task at hand now was to achieve a good result in the election, expected to take place on February 23: "That's all that matters, and we will certainly not achieve that if we start arguing about the chancellor candidate in the next few weeks." However, Scholz's approval rating has been less than 20% for weeks and the SPD is currently trailing the conservative Christian Democrats/Christian Social Union bloc by 16-18 percentage points in the polls. EBENSBURG, Pa. Medical reports on the 2016 death of a Blairsville woman, as well as defendant Christopher George Rowes version of how his former girlfriend died, were explored Friday in Cambria County court. Friday was the third day of Rowes trial in the death of 26-year-old Kaylene Roedel, who was found dead near the Honan Avenue Community Hiking and Biking Trail near the Minersville neighborhood of Johnstown. Jurors heard from forensic pathologist Kevin Whaley; a character witness; and state Trooper Scott Urban, who interviewed Rowe twice in 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whaley took the witness stand first and shared his assessment of Roedels medical files two years after they were authored. The original pathologist has since died. He said he believed Roedels manner of death was homicidal violence with an undetermined cause, although he said strangulation was likely a factor due to the congestion in her face, meaning that it was discolored because the blood couldnt escape that portion of the body before death. What that means is at one point of time there was pressure on the veins of the neck, he said. Roedel was found with her clothes cut off near the trail on Aug. 7, 2016, and her former boyfriend, Rowe, was charged in 2020 with criminal homicide, false reports and related counts in her death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whaley said there could have been other factors that led to her death and the strangulation was presumably not done with force from hands. It was hard to say for sure, he said, because an in-depth examination of the neck region wasnt done during the autopsy. Additionally, a toxicology report on which he was questioned by both sides stated the victim had amounts of several substances, including oxycodone and caffeine, in her system at the time of death. A recording previously played in court had Roedel state she was prescribed pain medication for a neck issue. Court-appointed defense attorney Toby McIlwain, who is representing Rowe with attorney Daniel Kiss, asked whether an overdose was possible. Whaley indicated that wasnt the case. That doesnt fit, Whaley said, adding the congestion in Roedels face and her clothes being cut off led him to homicide as the manner of death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other details on which the pathologist was questioned included that Roedel likely was intimate with someone prior to her death due to the entomology report he could not determine if that was consensual or forceful; and the victim either was killed in the location where she was found or died a short time before being placed there because of how the blood settles in the body after death in Roedels case, her back. Whaley also said that an interview he heard Rowe participate in regarding how Roedel died made him conclude Rowe either was party to the slaying or witnessed it, because of the degree of knowledge shared. During cross-examination, McIlwain asked about the timeline of Roedels death and when she was found. Whaley said she may have died 36 to 48 hours prior to her discovery, but he stressed that was a soft number. Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General prosecutors, who are trying the case, allege the victim went missing on Aug. 4, 2016, after finishing her shift as an exotic dancer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rowes interviews In two conflicting interviews Rowe did with Urban in August and September 2020 both at Rowes request and played in sections for the jury he shared his side of the story about what happened prior to and after Roedels death. In both interviews, Rowe claimed he went to the Blairsville residence that he and Roedel shared on Aug. 2, 2016, after confronting her at her work, and she pepper-sprayed him during an argument and he left. Rowe alleged in both interviews that Roedel later contacted him to come back to the house to try and work out their issues, and they spent all of Aug. 3, 2016, together. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Rowes August 2020 interview, he told Urban that between 9 and 11 a.m. Aug. 4, 2016, there was a knock at the door and Roedel went down to answer it. At that time, Roedel and another woman, who Rowe was reportedly friends with and had been staying with in Johnstowns Moxham section, began an altercation, according to Rowe. When Rowe went downstairs, he said, he saw the other woman on her back with Roedel in a rear naked choke hold on top of her, and when he tried to intervene, a male nearby pulled a gun on him. The woman quickly realized Roedel wasnt moving anymore and released the hold to get up, he said. I 100% guarantee saw (her) choke her to death, Rowe said in the first interview. She was still twitching ... but she was definitely not alive. He then told Urban that the two intruders and a third person who came inside all of whom he knew by name forced him at gunpoint to help load Roedels body into the tan SUV she drove and find a place to deposit her body. Rowe said he took them to the Minersville location because he believed there were cameras there to capture the situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, in the September 2020 interview, he stated the trio told him if he didnt handle the situation, they would go to the police and say he killed Roedel, then they left. Rowe said he then loaded Roedels body into her SUV alone and drove for an undisclosed amount of time through multiple counties before deciding to return to Johnstown and place her somewhere she would be found. In both stories he told Urban, Rowe said the other three people made him return to where he disposed of Roedels body the next day Aug. 5, 2016 and cut her clothes off before going to rent a truck and move all of his belongings from Blairsville to Moxham. Another matter handled Friday was leftover business from Thursday, when the defense twice motioned for a mistrial after Johnstown Police Department Detective Sgt. Cory Adams spoke to a witness after they were released from the stand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The issue came about when Adams testified that the witness told him while walking out together that they wouldnt identify Rowe in the courtroom out of fear. Cambria County Senior Judge Norman A. Krumenacker III denied both mistrial motions Thursday, but instructed Adams to have no further contact with witnesses. Krumenacker stated for the record Friday that, in his opinion, Adams did nothing inappropriate in speaking to the witness before and after they testified. Prosecutors argued the day before that Adams was the affiant and allowed to talk to witnesses. He also stated there was nothing improper about the witness being recalled to clarify their comments. Rowes trial will continue Monday and is scheduled through Nov. 22. Russia's latest mass attack on Ukraine shows Russian President Vladimir Putin's true response to attempts at appeasement, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said on Nov. 17. "Russia launched one of the largest air attacks: drones and missiles against peaceful cities, sleeping civilians, critical infrastructure," Sybiha said. Ukrainian air defenses shot down around 140 of the 210 drones and missiles launched at the country, primarily targeting the energy grid. "This is war criminal Putins true response to all those who called and visited him recently. We need peace through strength, not appeasement." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Nov. 15 held the first phone call with Putin in two years, during which he condemned Russias war in Ukraine, urged Putin to withdraw his troops, and discussed potential talks with Kyiv. Ukraine's Foreign Ministry expressed concerns over the Scholz-Putin call, saying that such lengthy conversations have been a tool Putin has exploited for over 20 years, now providing him hope for easing his international isolation. The call came amid growing uncertainties about the stability of Western support and Ukraine's setbacks on the battlefield. Donald Trump's victory in the U.S. election adds to the uncertainties, with some fearing that Washington might withdraw its support and force Kyiv toward painful concessions. In turn, top Ukrainian officials voiced hope for a more resolute decision-making. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Certainly, with the policies of this team that will now lead the White House, the war will end faster. This is their approach, their promise to their society, and it is also very important to them," President Volodymyr Zelensky said. Read also: Russia launches one of the largest aerial strikes on Ukraine, targets energy grid Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Nancy Pelosi is upsetting some Democratic lawmakers who are hoping she yields more power to younger party leaders, a new report reveals. Pelosi has been on a press tour in recent days, explaining why she think Democrats lost the White House and their majority in the Senate on Election Day. Just days after Kamala Harris lost the election, the former speaker suggested President Joe Biden should have dropped out of the race sooner to facilitate a proper primary process. "Had the president gotten out sooner, there may have been other candidates in the race," she told The New York Times. The anticipation was that, if the president were to step aside, that there would be an open primary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pelosi also reportedly played a key role in pressuring Biden to exit the race after his poor performance in a debate against Donald Trump. Despite these rumors, Pelosi claimed in August that she did not call one person and did not lead a pressure campaign against him. Some Democratic lawmakers are encouraging former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, 84, to step out of the spotlight after she blamed President Joe Biden for the partys loss on Election Day (REUTERS) Now, Democratic lawmakers tell Axios they want the 84-year-old to step out of the spotlight and let younger leaders, like House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, take the reigns. "Hakeem has been tremendously graceful and respectful of her, but I dont think she is being respectful of him," an unnamed member of the Congressional Black Caucus told Axios. "I understand that this is a difficult transition for her, not being the leader, but she is not," the unnamed Congressional Black Caucus member added. "She needs to understand what her new role is. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "She needs to take a seat," another unnamed Democratic lawmaker told Axios. Making scattershot comments is not just unhelpful, its damaging. A spokesperson for the former speaker told Axios she is immensely proud of Leader Hakeem Jeffries. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries speaks at a press conference on November 15. Democratic lawmakers want former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi to step out of the spotlight and make way for younger leaders, like Jeffries, to be the face of the Democratic party, Axios reports (EPA) "We all should praise the excellent progress made by House Democrats under his leadership, the spokesperson said. The party is already gearing up for the 2028 race. Democratic National Committee members are preparing to draft a new order of states for the 2028 presidential primary, NBC News reports. Meanwhile, several Democrats are also already looking ahead to the 2028 primary as the party tries to rebuild after a devastating loss to President-elect Donald Trump. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, California Governor Gavin Newsom, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz are all names that are considered to be in the mix. (WJET/WFXP) City of Jamestown Police are asking the public to be on the lookout for a person of interest in their investigation of an August shooting death. Police issued a be-the-lookout order for Jermaine Holloman of Jamestown for the shooting death of 25-year-old Corey Johnson of Buffalo back on August 18. Buffalo man dies following shooting outside Jamestown bar Johnson was found shot around 2:15 a.m. on Aug. 18 in a parking lot in the 300 block of North Main Street and was rushed to UPMC Chautauqua then UPMC Hamot where he was later pronounced dead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said they believe the shooting was a targeted event and the victim knew the shooter. Police said Holloman already had an active warrant out of the Chautauqua County Sheriffs Office and should be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone with information is asked to call Jamestown Police at 716-483-7536 or call 911. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com. LIMA (Reuters) - Peru's president signed defense and mining cooperation deals with her Japanese counterpart on Sunday, following an official visit between the two leaders just after the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit hosted by Lima. The agreements were signed by Peru's President Dina Boluarte and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who in remarks touted what he described as a 10-year cooperation roadmap. Part of the deal involves assistance to boost mining supply chains. Peru is one of the world's top copper producers, while Japan is a major consumer of the key industrial metal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the aftermath of the APEC summit, Peru also inked a defense cooperation deal with South Korea, including a submarine agreement with Hyundai Heavy Industries and another deal with Korea Aerospace Industries to manufacture parts for fighter aircraft, according to Boluarte's foreign minister. Last week, Peru formally inaugurated the Chinese-built Pacific coast megaport of Chancay, promising faster and more efficient trade between Latin America and Asia, with China's President Xi Jinping in attendance. (Reporting by Marco Aquino; Editing by Lisa Shumaker) Conrad Sangma-led National People's Party (NPP) on Sunday withdrew its support from the N Biren Singh-led BJP Government in Manipur with immediate effect amid the ongoing tensions in the state. Meghalaya Chief Minister Sangma wrote a letter to BJP National President JP Nadda and said that the Manipur government under the leadership of Biren Singh has "completely failed to resolve the crisis and restore normalcy." "The National People's Party would like to convey its deep concern over the prevailing law and order situation in the State of Manipur. In the last few days, we have seen the situation further deteriorate where many more innocent lives have been lost and people in the State are going through immense suffering," the letter said. "We strongly feel that the Manipur State Government under the leadership of Biren Singh has completely failed to resolve the crisis and restore normalcy," the BJP ally said in the letter. "Keeping the current situation in mind, the National People's Party has decided to withdraw its support to the Biren Singh led Government in the State of Manipur, with immediate effect," the letter further said. The exit of National People's Party will not affect the government as the BJP holds an absolute majority in the state. In the 60-member Manipur Assembly, the BJP currently holds 37 seats on its own, a majority well above the halfway mark of 31. The NPP has 7 MLAs in the state assembly. Meanwhile earlier on Sunday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah convened a high-level meeting with senior officials in the national capital to assess the security situation in Manipur. Sources indicated that the Home Minister has planned to hold a detailed review meeting on Monday to address the concerns and strategies surrounding the fragile security scenario that has gripped Manipur in recent days. The situation in Manipur has seen heightened tensions, prompting the government to take proactive steps in monitoring and managing regional stability. Shah convened the meeting after he returned to his residence in Delhi, postponing his planned visit to Vidarbha, where he was expected to attend a series of rallies ahead of Maharashtra assembly polls on November 20. Armed miscreants from both Meiti and Kuki communities in conflict have been indulging in violence leading to unfortunate loss of lives and disruption in public order in Manipur. Amid the escalation in the state, a total curfew was imposed on Saturday in Imphal. Following this, the government immediately suspended Internet and mobile data services for two days. "Total curfew has been immediately clamped in the town until further orders. Internet and mobile data services have been suspended for 02 (two) days immediately. SsP/ COs have been deployed on the ground to manage the law-and-order situation. Senior officers are critically monitoring the situation round the clock," Manipur police said in its post. Violence erupted in the northeastern state on May 3 last year following clashes during a rally organised by the All Tribals Students Union (ATSU) to protest against the demand for the inclusion of the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe category. (ANI) Pete Hegseths co-hosts on Fox & Friends Weekend defended his character after Sherillyn Ifill, a former NAACP Legal Defense Fund president, declared the Secretary of Defense nominee was a white supremacist. If he was a white supremacist, I think wed know and I hope that he has the time, which Im sure he doesnt because hes preparing for his hearings and everything before the Senate, that woman deserves to be sued. That is defamation, Rachel Campos-Duffy said. Her fellow host Will Cain adamantly agreed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is one of the people who I feel like I know best in my life who I would vouch for their character. That being said, we do know him best [], Cain stated. That ridiculous opinion is based upon what she accuses him of being against: DEI [Diversity, Equity, Inclusion]. So merit is now racist is what shes suggesting, he added. Cain also addressed concerns about one of Hegseths tattoos which was flagged by a fellow National Guard member in the anti-terrorism unit. It reads Deus vult, a term that Cain said means God wills it. The complaint resulted in Hegseths removal from duty at President Bidens inauguration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its been used by white supremacists concerned it was an indication of an insider threat. This is a saying, by the way. It goes back to 1096, he argued. I mean, I read the email. Its one mans internet rabbit hole theory. Cain described the resurfacing of the issue as desperate while Hegseths fill-in, Joey Jones, said the effort was spurred by Democrats. The Democrat Party would have you believe that serving in the military is some sort of indicator that you are, you know, alt-right, far-right, that you hate the country because you hate the idea of DEI, which attacks the meritocracy of the military, Jones stated. The one thing I do know about Pete Hegseth is if hes confirmed as Secretary of Defense, he will not seek retribution with his National Guard unit or with that person. Hell treat everyone the exact same and give them all an opportunity to be the best fighting force our countrys ever seen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers have questioned Hegseths ability to get confirmed, citing his little experience in military leadership and a previous sexual assault allegation. Trump has not recalled his nomination or publicly addressed the backlash. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Pete Hegseth paid a woman who accused him of sexual assault in a settlement so he would not lose his job at Fox News, according to his lawyer. Mr Hegseth, who has been nominated as Defence Secretary by Donald Trump, has repeatedly denied the allegations he sexually assaulted the woman. Tim Parlatore, who acts as Mr Hegseths attorney, said that he entered into a settlement agreement containing a confidentiality clause even though he claims he was completely innocent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hegseth strongly felt that he was the victim of blackmail, Mr Parlatore said, so he ultimately decided to enter into a settlement for a significantly reduced amount because he knew that the revelation would result in his immediate termination from Fox. He claims that the accuser was taking advantage of Mr Hegseth. We believe she then extorted him knowing that at the height of the #MeToo movement, the mere public allegation would likely result in his immediate termination from Fox News, Mr Parlatore said on Saturday. Last week, the City of Monterey confirmed in a news release that it had investigated the sexual assault allegations made against Mr Hegseth. The alleged incident was reported to have taken place at the Hyatt Regency hotel in Monterey, California, on a night in October 2017. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim reported suffering bruises to the right thigh. No weapons or property were involved, according to the report. He is one of several Trump nominees who could face difficulties being confirmed by the US Senate, despite the Republicans having a majority. Doubts have also been voiced about Matt Gaetz, the nominee for Attorney General; Robert F Kennedy Jr, who has been picked to head the Department of Health and Human Services and Tulsi Gabbard, the former Democrat chosen as the Director of National Intelligence. Mr Hegseth has been nominated as Defence Secretary by Donald Trump - Kevin Lamarque/REUTERS Donald Trump Jr on Sunday hailed his fathers unconventional nominees as disrupters, while admitting they could face pushback. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reality this time is, we actually know what were doing. We actually know who the good guys and the bad guys are, he told Fox News Channels Sunday Morning Futures. And its about surrounding my father with people who are both competent and loyal. They will deliver on his promises. They will deliver on his message. They are not people who think they know better, as unelected bureaucrats. He added contingency plans were in place if any were rejected by the Senate. Mike Johnson, the Republican Speaker of the House of Representatives, also described the nominees as disruptors, adding that Mr Trump had the right to pick his own Cabinet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They will go into the agencies theyve been asked to lead and they will reform them, he said. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. New details have emerged about the sexual assault allegation against Pete Hegseth, Donald Trumps pick to run the Department of Defense. This week, a report emerged revealing police investigated Hegseth for alleged sexual misconduct in Monterey, California in 2017. Now, The Washington Post reports the veteran and Fox News host paid the woman who accused him of sexual assault as part of a non-disclosure agreement. Despite the payment, he maintained the encounter was consensual. The Post, citing a statement from Hegseths attorney Timothy Parlatore, reported that Hegseth was visibly intoxicated when he encountered a woman in Monterey seven years ago. Parlatore said in this statement that the woman contacted the police, and they concluded, the Complainant had been the aggressor in the encounter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Monterey police did not confirm this to the Post. Pete Hegseth, Donald Trumps pick for Secretary of Defense, paid a woman as part of an NDA after she accused him of sexual assault in 2017 according to a new report (AFP via Getty Images) Hegseth later agreed to pay the woman as part of an NDA because he was concerned hed be fired by Fox News, the Post reports. The NDA and payment came after she threatened to litigate further in 2020, the Post reports, citing Hegseths attorney. The Post also obtained a memo which was written by an unnamed individual who claims to be a friend of the accuser and sent to Trumps presidential transition team. That memo claimed Hegseth raped a 30-year-old conservative group staffer in a hotel room in Monterey in 2017, the Post reports. Police investigated the incident but Hegseth never faced charges, the memo said. Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung told the Post that Hegseth vigorously denies all wrongdoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Trump is nominating high-caliber and extremely qualified candidates to serve in his Administration, Cheung said. Mr. Hegseth has vigorously denied any and all accusations, and no charges were filed. We look forward to his confirmation as United States Secretary of Defense so he can get started on Day One to Make America Safe and Great Again. Meanwhile, the Fox News hosts lawyer told the Post that Hegseth strongly felt that he was the victim of blackmail and innocent collateral damage in a lie that the Complainant was holding onto to keep her marriage intact. Hegseths lawyer noted it was the height of the MeToo movement, and that he ultimately decided to enter into a settlement for a significantly reduced amount, according to the Post. Earlier this week,Vanity Fair reported that Trumps team was briefed on Wednesday evening about an allegation that Hegseth engaged in sexual misconduct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wiles and Trumps lawyers spoke to Hegseth after learning about the alleged incident, Vanity Fair added. The Fox News host reportedly said the incident was consensual. This allegation was already investigated by the Monterey Police Department and they found no evidence for it, Hegseths attorney told the outlet.In a statement to The Independent, Parlatore said: Mr. Hegseth is completely innocent. He was cleared after a police investigation determined that the woman was the aggressor in the situation and was then the subject of blackmail. This entire episode detracts from all the women out there who are true victims. The Independent has contacted the Monterey Police Department for comment. PG&E is only too eager to shut off the power to your house when it believes theres a public safety threat. (Not to mention a threat to their equipment.) But when it comes to ensuring public safety in a popular recreation area outside Fresno, PG&E would rather not bother. In fact, the utility company is actively seeking a way around new safety and environmental measures in the San Joaquin River Gorge set by multiple government agencies and recommended by conservation groups designed to prevent the sudden onset of deadly high-water conditions. I dont know why PG&E is fighting so hard to keep from doing the right thing, said Dave Steindorf, stewardship director for American Whitewater. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Me neither. Opinion On the San Joaquin River between Mammoth Pool and Millerton Lake, PG&E produces hydroelectric power through Kerckhoff Dam and two powerhouses. Before reaching Millerton, water released from Kerckhoff Dam flows downstream through the San Joaquin River Gorge Special Recreation Management Area, roughly 6,700 acres of federally owned land that straddles Fresno and Madera counties. PG&Es license to operate the Kerckhoff Hydroelectric Project expired in 2022, compelling the utility company to undergo a re-licensing process overseen by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During that process, the Bureau of Land Management (which manages the San Joaquin River Gorge), U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and California Department of Fish and Wildlife all placed new conditions on PG&Es dam operations designed to boost public safety and enhance the ecological health of the river system. Such conditions are commonplace on California rivers, including those where PG&E produces hydroelectricity. But rather than agree to follow them for Kerckhoff Dam, the utility filed for a special Department of the Interior hearing to bring several of those conditions into dispute. Because flows are controlled by an upstream dam, river levels in the San Joaquin River Gorge are erratic. In the span of 15 minutes, a relative trickle can become a raging torrent. As its name implies, the gorge is narrow and lined with slippery boulders and bedrock. Not an especially hospitable place to be when a wall of water appears without warning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If youve spent any time in that gorge, the thought of that big a flow change in that short of a time is terrifying, Steindorf said. The PG&E Kerckhoff 1 Powerhouse sits above the San Joaquin River Gorge in this photograph looking upstream from the footbridge that spans the river at the special recreation management area near Auberry. The recently renamed San Joaquin Butte looms in the background. Sudden releases blamed in death Sudden dam releases into the San Joaquin River Gorge are blamed for the May 2018 death of Jared Gardner. The 18-year-old was among a group of Clovis teens swept away by multiple surges of fast-moving water. On the day Gardner drowned, American Whitewater says releases from Kerckhoff Dam increased from 35 cubic feet per second to 5,989 cfs in less than an hour. Enough water to raise the level of the San Joaquin by 7 feet below the dam. Miles downstream in the narrow gorge, that 7 feet translates to 15 feet. Theres no other river in the state that I know of that sees those kinds of fluctuations especially one that goes into a heavily used recreation area, Steindorf said. Im astounded there havent been more fatalities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 85,000 people (many of them from Fresno and Clovis) visit the San Joaquin River Gorge every year to hike, fish, hunt and ride mountain bikes and horses. Access to the river is poor, partially due to the challenging terrain. American Whitewater previously called upon federal agencies to amend PG&Es license for the Kerckhoff Hydroelectric Project before anyone else is hurt or drowned by PG&Es erratic water releases. Now, the BLM and other agencies have joined in. As a condition of PG&Es re-license with FERC, theyve required the utility company to implement a ramp up rate of no more than 1 foot of water per hour (when measured below the dam) under specified conditions. Many hydroelectric projects licensed by FERC have ramping rate requirements to protect aquatic resources and public safety, the BLM wrote in its official justification. Moderate changes in flow are the most effective way to communicate that flows are changing, prompting people to move to safer locations. PG&Es assertions challenged PG&E did not reply to my questions about why it is standing in the way of basic safety measures in the San Joaquin River Gorge. In response to prior media inquiries, the company attributed the fluctuating releases to upstream dams beyond their control specifically the Big Creek Hydroelectric Project operated by Southern California Edison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats only partially true and nowhere close to the whole story. Using data from the California Department of Water Resources, American Whitewater has documented instances where the flow spikes from Kerckhoff Dam far exceeded the capacity of Big Creek Powerhouse No. 4 upstream strongly indicating that water passing through the Big Creek project was not solely responsible for surges in the river gorge. In addition, the nonprofit produced a series of graphs showing PG&E has enough storage capacity in Kerckhoff Reservoir to mitigate extreme fluctuations with better coordination with So Cal Edison over how much water is headed downstream. Were not talking about anything outlandish here, Steindorf said. People have the right to expect that they can safely recreate in rivers below PG&Es dams. PG&E seems to care about public safety when it suits them. Visitors to the San Joaquin River Gorge shouldnt put their lives at risk when it doesnt. The footbridge that crosses the San Joaquin River at the San Joaquin River Gorge Special Recreation Management Area near Auberry is seen in this aerial image taken by drone on Friday, April 20, 2018. The San Joaquin River flows toward Millerton Lake in this 2005 photograph taken from the green bridge at the San Joaquin River Gorge Special Recreation Management Area near Auberry. Advertisement Advertisement SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) The Beta Alpha Chapter of the National Phi Delta Kappa Sorority held their veterans appreciation program. The program recognized the military husbands of the sororitys sisters. Veterans have served this county and they are the reason for our freedom. They put their lives on the line every day for us, and if theres a group that we should recognize, its a veteran, they keep us safe, said Margaret Thomas, chairwoman for the veterans program with the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Beta Alpha Chapter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Veterans were honored with a medal and a certificate of appreciation. Commissioner Ronald L. Cothran, for Caddo Parish District 10 was a recipient, serving 23 years in the military, moving from aviation to medical to retiring as a Sergeant Major. Anytime that youre honored, people do not have to do that. And the thing is anytime that somebody takes the time out to recognize and honor you, you should be not only appreciative but also think about the time and the effort that it took them to actually go through the process of getting it together, said Cothran. The Commissioner spoke and honored fellow veterans, including Vietnam Navy Veteran Garfield Johnson Jr. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson Jr. joined the service in 1965 and says the experience made a man out of him. He was not able to get a college scholarship, so he joined the military. It was a different thing for me as being a person of color going into service, but the only thing you could do is try to do the best you could to get advanced in anything that you wanted to do, said Johnson. Commissioner Cothran said it was an honor to be in attendance and ended the program with a message. Anytime that you see a soldier, be it active, or should I say, service member or retired, or veteran, please let them know you thank them for what theyve done for this country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cothran also said this is the greatest country in the world. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com. Russian officials will depart the Poznan consulate in the next few days, and the Polish government will agree to Kyiv's proposal to open a Ukrainian consulate in the same location. Source: RMF24, as reported by European Pravda Details: Polish Foreign Minister Radosaw Sikorski said in October that he had revoked his authorisation to the Russian Consulate General's activity in Poznan. On Saturday, the media questioned the minister about when Russian diplomats would leave the premises in Poznan and his thoughts on the notion of establishing a Ukrainian diplomatic mission there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "The lease of this premises expires at the end of this month. Now we are talking about a few days. Today's network of Ukrainian consulates, given the unprecedented increase in the number of Ukrainian citizens in Poland, does not meet consular needs. Please remember that consulates do practical things. These are all kinds of legal acts, children are born, people die. And we would certainly look with great sympathy at such a request from the Ukrainian side," Sikorski said. Radosaw Sikorski said in October that the decision to reject permission to open the Russian Consulate General in Poznan was based on the Russian Federation's war against Ukraine and a hybrid war against the West, including Poland. Sikorski stated that as foreign minister, he was aware that Russia was behind sabotage activities in Poland and other ally countries. The Russian consulate in Poznan was created in 1946 after an agreement between the Soviet embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Polish People's Republic. The consulate halted operations in 1948 and resumed them in 1960. In 1971, it was renamed the General Consulate. The majority of Poles feel that Poland should expel the Russian ambassador, according to a United Surveys poll. Support UP or become our patron! Polish and allied aircraft have been scrambled in Polish airspace in response to a large-scale Russian attack involving cruise and ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles and targeting sites in western Ukraine. Source: a statement from Polish Armed Forces Operational Command; European Pravda Details: The Polish military emphasises that "regular pairs of fighter jets have been scrambled, and ground-based air defence and radar systems have been placed on high alert". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Attention, Polish and allied aircraft have begun operating in our airspace due to a large-scale attack by the Russian Federation, which has launched cruise missiles, ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles against targets located, in particular, in western Ukraine," Operational Command said. The statement also notes that these decisions are aimed at ensuring security in areas bordering the territories under threat. "Operational Command is monitoring the current situation, and subordinate assets and personnel remain in full readiness for immediate response," the statement said. Background: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the morning of 17 November, a series of explosions occurred in the city of Kyiv during a large-scale Russian missile attack on targets in Ukraine. Kyiv Mayor Vitalii Klitschko reported that the bombardment had caused a fire in the central part of the city, set off by debris from a downed missile. Two people were injured. Explosions also rocked Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipro, Kryvyi Rih, Cherkasy and other Ukrainian cities. The Russians are attacking Ukraine, particularly with Kinzhal hypersonic missiles and air-launched cruise missiles, the Ukrainian Air Force said. This is not the first time Poland has scrambled aircraft because of Russia's attacks on Ukraine. Last month, Polish Foreign Minister Radosaw Sikorski stated that Poland and other nations bordering Ukraine are "obliged" to shoot down Russian missiles before they enter their airspace. The Polish Foreign Ministry later clarified that Sikorski had expressed his opinion, not the government's stance. Support UP or become our patron! Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk queried the usefulness of a phone call between German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Russian President Vladimir Putin on the war in Ukraine in a post on X on Sunday. "No one will stop Putin with phone calls," Tusk posted. The massive Russian overnight attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure had shown that "phone diplomacy" could not replace genuine support for Ukraine from the West as a whole. "The coming weeks will be decisive, not only for the war itself, but also for our future," Tusk predicted. Police should focus on tackling violent crime and burglaries instead of questioning people over their social media posts, Sir Keir Starmer has said. The Prime Minister urged forces to concentrate on what matters most to their communities amid the deepening row over a police investigation into Telegraph writer Allison Pearsons post on X a year ago. He said chief constables who prioritised looking into complaints about allegedly offensive tweets would be held to account for those decisions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sir Keir intervened after politicians, campaigners and a former MI6 chief warned that hate crime laws were being exploited to stifle free speech. Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, said that police were using hate crime laws wrongly 90 per cent of the time, while Lord Stevens, the former Met commissioner, called for forces to focus on tackling violent crime rather than policing peoples opinions online. Former MI6 head Sir Richard Dearlove suggested the investigation into Pearson was a waste of resources. Essex Police has come under fierce scrutiny over its decision to investigate Pearson over an allegedly offensive tweet. Two officers visited her home on Remembrance Sunday and invited her for an interview over an incident or offence of potentially inciting racial hatred online. Allison Pearson is under investigation for allegedly stirring up racial hatred with a social media post - GETTY The case led to uproar, with calls growing for the Government to rein in chief constables and scrap non-crime hate incidents (NCHIs) altogether. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sir Keir was asked during a trip to the G20 summit in Brazil whether police should be prioritising freedom of speech over hurt feelings. He told the Telegraph: I think that, as a general principle, the police should concentrate on what matters most to their communities. This is a matter for the police themselves, police force by police force, so they can make their decisions and will obviously be held to account for those decisions. The Prime Minister pointed to a review by Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, into the rules surrounding the logging of NCHIs. These can be registered if anybody, not necessarily the victim, tells the police they have taken offence to somebodys remarks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although NCHIs do not trigger a criminal investigation, they are registered on police databases and can come up in enhanced background checks, for example if someone applies to work as a teacher. NCHIs are registered on police databases and can come up in enhanced background checks Forces are supposed to weed out complaints that are trivial, irrational or malicious or relating to the expression of lawfully held views. But a report by HM Inspectorate of Constabulary in September found many forces fail to correctly apply the guidance. It uncovered evidence that confusion over the rules meant officers were taking a risk-averse approach summed up as if in doubt, record. As a result, NCHIs were too often being logged for complaints that amounted to little more than peoples hurt feelings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Julie Bindel, the feminist writer, revealed in The Telegraph at the weekend how officers knocked on her door following a complaint about a tweet she sent. She said detectives refused to tell her which post the allegation referred to but that the report had been made by a transgender man in the Netherlands. Tom Hunt, a former Tory MP, has also told how a NCHI was logged against him after a complaint was filed by a Labour activist. He had written in a local newspaper column raising concerns that certain communities were largely responsible for crime in Ipswich city centre. Chris Philp, who tightened the rules on NCHIs as policing minister in the last government, said police should only be recording them extremely rarely where there was a real risk of imminent criminality. Chris Philp leaves the BBC shortly after appearing on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg - GETTY He said: If somebody, for example, appears to be about to threaten violence, or theyre expressing views that are exceptionally either racist or misogynistic, that might suggest that that could lead very imminently to a crime being committed, then I think we would want the police to keep an eye on that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the majority, probably 90 per cent of these NCHIs that are being looked at dont meet that [threshold]. The police should not be policing free speech. The police should not be policing thought. They should be concentrating on actual crime or behaviour that is just below the criminal threshold and might realistically and imminently lead to a crime. We want to focus on those crimes, not policing thought. Baron Stevens, a former Met commissioner, said forces should prioritise things like knife crime and violence on the streets. Wasting their time Sir Richard, a former head of MI6, said it was ridiculous that the police were wasting their time investigating Pearsons tweet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Cooper is, however, seeking to reverse the Tories decision to downgrade the monitoring of NCHIs, specifically in relation to anti-Semitism and Islamophobia, so they can be logged consistently by police. She is concerned that the crackdown has prevented police recording anti-Semitic and Islamophobic abuse that could escalate into serious violence. Ms Cooper will also announce this week that police will be given minimum standards for solving crimes, including violence against women, knife offences, robbery and theft. She will set up a policing performance unit that will aim to end the postcode lottery where some forces are up to six times more likely to charge an offender for a crime such as shoplifting than other constabularies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new unit will monitor time spent on the front line and collect data by crime type to give a clearer picture of local performance. It mirrors a similar initiative by Lord Blunkett, the former Labour home secretary, in 2001 and is designed to better monitor Labours priority areas such as anti-social behaviour, knife crime and violence against women and girls. Forces will be held to account on key metrics, including call and incident response times, to ensure minimum standards are being met in every area of the country. Where necessary, turnaround teams will be sent in to drive specific improvements. There will also be a focus on police standards, with data collected on misconduct, vetting procedures and disciplinary processes. This will be acted on to root out those who are not fit to serve while helping to restore public trust. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The police nabbed the couple on board Sadbhavana Express train at Shahjahanpur Railway Station in Uttar Pradesh, rescuing the child. According to Akansha Yadav, Additional DCP South West Delhi, the police received a PCR call informing the abduction on November 15 at around 3 pm. After checking the CCTV footage, the police came to know that the couple boarded Sadbhavana Express from Anand Vihar railway station. "With the coordinated efforts of Railway, GRPF, RPF, and the Delhi Police a thorough search operation was done in the train. The accused couple have changed their appearance completely so we took some time. In Shajahanpur, we were able to nab the accused and able to rescue the child," Akansha Yadav told ANI. She said that a further investigation is on to ascertain the motive and modus operandi of the couple. The accused is identified as Maahi Singh (24) and Rohit Kumar (32). The police said that Maahi Singh had worked in various spas in Gujarat and Noida in Uttar Pradesh. (ANI) An 80-year-old Cass Twp. man was scammed out of $17,000 after someone hacked his computer and forced him to buy gift cards, according to state police at Frackville. Police said that an unknown actor on Nov. 10 coerced the victim into withdrawing $17,000 from his bank. The victim, under false pretense, was forced to purchase gift cards totaling that amount, police said. An investigation will continue pending further information, according to police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Nov. 7, state police issued a news release advising people of Bitcoin scams, whereby an unknown caller orders someone to withdraw large amounts of money from their bank account. The victim is then told to put the money in a Bitcoin kiosk for safeguarding, and the money is transferred to the caller. Due to the nature of the crime, many of those scam cases go unsolved, police said. PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) The Prince Georges County Police Department (PGPD) said it was at the scene of a deadly shooting that happened on Saturday night. Police said that at about 9 p.m., officers responded to the 700 block of Harry S. Truman Drive North for the report of a shooting. Man found shot, dead in Prince Georges County When officers arrived at the scene, they found a person who had been shot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was taken to the hospital, where he died hours later. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Nov. 16Groton City Robert F. Girard, 37, of 70 Maple Ave., second floor, New London, was charged Saturday with second-degree breach of peace, violation of a protective order and sixth-degree larceny. New London Joseph Lallier, 59, was charged Friday with operation of a motor vehicle under suspension or registration and failure to drive in the proper lane. Norwich Andrew Henry Scovish III, 52, of 6 Kinney Ave. was charged Friday with third-degree burglary and first-degree criminal mischief. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leticia Marcos-Santiago, 39, of 252 Old Canterbury Turnpike was charged Saturday with disorderly conduct, third-degree assault and reckless endangerment. Police logs reflect arrests, not convictions. For outcomes of criminal arrests, visit bit.ly/ctcourts. The Mount Dora Police Department is searching for an unidentified Black man who robbed a woman at gunpoint on Saturday in Lake County, according to the police department. Around 5:40 p.m. police were called to Viva Liquor, located at 101 South Highland Street, where they discovered a woman who had been robbed, according to Mount Dora PD. The woman said as she was entering her vehicle just outside the liquor store a man dressed in all black and wearing a ski mask approached her with a silver semi-automatic firearm and took her purse, Mount Dora PD said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The unidentified Black man also demanded the womans cellphone but she refused to hand it over. Then the man threatened to shoot her, Mount Dora PD said. The man fled the scene in a silver SUV of unknown make or model and travelled west on 1st Avenue toward Clayton Street, Mount Dora PD said. The woman, whose identity has not been released, did not sustain any injuries, the agency said. The Mount Dora Police Department is asking anyone with information to contact the Criminal Investigations Unit at (352) 735- 7130 or via email at PoliceDeptCIDEmail@cityofmountdora.com. Police are to be set minimum standards for solving crimes including violence against women, knife offences, robbery and theft under plans to be unveiled this week by Yvette Cooper. The Home Secretary will announce the creation of a policing performance unit which will aim to end the postcode lottery where some forces are up to six times more likely to charge an offender for a crime like shoplifting than other constabularies. The unit will monitor time spent on the front line and collect force-level data by crime type to give a clearer picture of local performance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It mirrors a similar initiative by Lord Blunkett, the former Labour home secretary, in 2001 and is designed to better monitor Labours priority areas like anti-social behaviour, knife crime and violence against women and girls. Forces will be held to account on key metrics, including call and incident response times, to ensure minimum standards are being met in every area of the country. Where necessary, turnaround teams will be sent in to drive specific improvements. There will also be a focus on police standards, with data collected on misconduct, vetting procedures and disciplinary processes. This will be acted on to root out those who are not fit to serve while helping to restore public trust. Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, will warn that the principle of policing by consent is in peril - Wiktor Szymanowicz/Future Publishing Speaking at an annual summit of police chiefs this week, Ms Cooper is expected to say: We need stronger performance across all police forces yet right now it is far too hard to find any of the information on how police forces compare to each other, how they are doing at tackling basic crimes or where improvements are needed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police chiefs have been calling for reform for a long time, but the system is too fragmented to even get straightforward data on what is happening. That makes it much harder for police officers and for communities. Thats why we will work with policing to put a clear new police performance framework in place for all forces, with clear action to ensure there are improvements when things go wrong. She will also say that the last 14 years of Tory government have left police forces facing a perfect storm of cuts and conflict, which took officers off the beat, meant fewer crimes were solved, and led to waste and bureaucracy that held policing back. All of that has left our precious British principle of policing by consent in peril. Because when people dont see bobbies on the beat, when they dont bother reporting crime because they dont believe anybody will come or anything will be done, when 90 per cent of crimes go unsolved, then confidence is withdrawn, and communities are let down, she is expected to say. Ms Cooper is also expected to announce a neighbourhood policing guarantee within weeks, as well as more funding amid concerns from police chiefs that they could be left short by the costs of increased national insurance employers contributions and a 4.75 per cent pay rise for officers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is thought that about 50 million will go to the Metropolitan Police, which is due to receive a total of 3.5 billion in 2024-25, an increase of 3.5 per cent. However, the extra cash is unlikely to plug the hole in the Mets finances. It is understood that over the next two years the force faces a shortfall of up to 350 million. Ms Cooper will say the Government will deliver an additional 13,000 more neighbourhood police and PCSOs and work with the College of Policing to support the rollout of a new specialist training programme for neighbourhood policing. In an article for The Telegraph, Emily Spurrell, chairman of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, said forces needed to do more to prevent crime. She said police and crime commissioners (PCCs) were key to achieving this by bringing together different agencies with the police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As PCCs, we have the necessary relationships and convening power to coordinate and deliver effective local services to prevent crime, rehabilitate offenders and, importantly, support victims, she said. We must do things differently By Emily Spurrell, Chairman of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners Emily Spurrell - Jonathan Chen/Home Office This summer we saw the best of our police service. Officers risking their own safety, many suffering injuries and trauma, to protect people and property as violence and hatred erupted on the streets of our towns and cities. In Southport, officers who had run towards danger on the day of the devastating knife attack which led to three young girls losing their lives, were the next day back on shift facing bricks and bottles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Merseyside, I know too well the collective trauma the area suffered following the shocking murders of Elsie, Alice and Bebe. A tragedy and grief that was shamelessly hijacked by those who used it as an opportunity to spread hatred and division, driven in large part by malicious disinformation and lies shared on social media. In the wake of that appalling violence and disorder, it is vital we reflect on how we can address the underlying causes and how we can target the dangerous and malicious individuals directing and coordinating activity on and offline. A vehicle burns in Southport following disorder in July earlier this year - Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PCCs have a pivotal role in addressing these challenges. Our unique capacity to convene partners, within and outside of policing and criminal justice health, education and business for example enables us to identify potential problems at an early stage and act to help tackle the underlying causes of some of societys biggest challenges. PCCs are the voice of the public in policing. By advocating for local communities, delivering on what they want through local police and crime plans and holding chief constables to account on their delivery, PCCs provide critical oversight and represent the views of the people they serve. There is no doubt that the polices relationship with the public has been badly knocked by scandals that have damaged trust and confidence. The horrific crimes of the likes of Wayne Couzens and David Carrick have understandably led to a continued loss of trust in the police from women and black communities in particular. The publics trust must be earned, and policing leaders must play their part by demonstrating the highest possible standards of behaviour, transparency and honesty. The conviction of Wayne Couzens prompted protests outside the Old Bailey in London - TOLGA AKMEN/AFP Significant work is already being done, and positive change is happening. Those who should not be in the police are being removed, vetting of officers and staff has been strengthened, and a new Crimestoppers service is available for the public to report police corruption and abuse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Government has committed to delivering a Hillsborough Law to compel public bodies to co-operate with investigations into major disasters, and chief constables have voluntarily signed up to a duty of candour obliging them to ensure a culture of honesty and openness within their force. PCCs will work with the Government and our policing partners to explore how a statutory duty of candour in public services could help increase public confidence and trust in policing. The Home Secretary has been clear about her ambition to reform policing and is embracing the drive among police leaders to think differently and to challenge the status quo. This week, policing leaders will meet to begin discussions in relation to these reforms the biggest for a generation. This level of change requires radical thinking and an absolute commitment to collaboration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We must not shy away from this opportunity to bring about a transformation in policing in the public interest. The case of Sarah Everard, who was murdered by Met officer Wayne Couzens, shook public confidence in the police - Victoria Jones/PA The local accountability that PCCs bring is key to this, and we are ready to work towards meaningful and effective change. We can only do that if we are willing to work collaboratively, recognise the need for compromise and, crucially, follow the evidence of what will genuinely improve services for the public. Solving crimes is, of course, crucial but, as I said when I became chairman of the Association of PCCs (APCC), wed all rather there was less crime in the first place, so we must do more to prevent offending. This wont work if we operate in silos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We know those who are drawn into offending behaviour often have unstable and complex backgrounds and too often they end up in a revolving door of criminal offending and prison. If this is to change, we must do things differently. As PCCs, we have the necessary relationships and convening power to coordinate and deliver effective local services to prevent crime, rehabilitate offenders and, importantly, support victims. Sir Keir Starmer and Yvette Cooper have vowed to reduce knife crime and violence against women and girls - Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images Europe All with a focus on safer streets, reducing anti-social behaviour and youth violence, and supporting the Government in its aims to halve both knife crime and violence against women and girls in a decade. This work will be significantly boosted by the additional 13,000 neighbourhood police officers promised. We must never take for granted our precious policing by consent model. The contract between police and the public endows officers with significant powers over their fellow citizens. With that comes public accountability. We want a confident, fully resourced and skilled police service, one in which all communities can trust, and one they can feel confident in turning to when they need it. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. One reason the police officers who turned up at Allison Pearsons door on Remembrance Sunday refused to tell her what they were investigating her for might be that they didnt want her to burst out laughing. That was the reaction of barrister Sarah Phillimore three years ago when she learnt that the police were investigating her for a tweet in which she described her cat as a Methodist. Was she guilty of stirring up hatred against a group based on their religion, a criminal offence under the Public Order Act? In the end, the police concluded her comment wasnt in fact a hate crime, but recorded it as a non-crime hate incident (NCHI). This particular form of policing dutifully recording non-crimes is more widespread than youd think. According to FOI requests submitted by The Telegraph in 2019, the police in England and Wales had recorded 119,934 NCHIs since 2014 when the concept was first devised by the College of Policing, and that number has probably doubled since then. Thats an average of about 65 a day. Little wonder that in parts of Essex, where Pearson lives, 93 per cent of car-related crimes last year went without a single suspect being identified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NCHIs sound like something out of Nineteen Eighty-Four, but the writer who deserves the most credit for anticipating them is Philip K Dick, who came up with the concept of pre-crime in Minority Report, his 1956 novella that later became a film starring Tom Cruise. In Dicks nightmarish society of the future, specially trained telepaths are able to foresee serious crimes and a division of the police is tasked with arresting the perpetrators before they have a chance to commit them. NCHIs are a form of pre-crime, with the idea being that if you put the frighteners on someone guilty of saying something hateful, but which isnt against the law, you deter them from taking the next step, which would be to commit a hate crime. That was the rationale provided by Paul Giannasi, a retired police officer and now the Hate Crime Policy Lead at the National Police Chiefs Council, in a witness statement he submitted on behalf of the College of Policing when it was being sued by Harry Miller. Miller, an ex-cop, sued both Humberside Police and the arms-length body after an NCHI was recorded against him in 2019. Failure to address non-crime hate incidents is likely to lead to their increase, and ultimately increase the risk of serious violence and societal damage, said Giannasi. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his witness statement, Giannasi said this supposition that NCHIs, if not addressed, would inevitably lead to more and more serious crimes was based on the work of Gordon Allport, an American social psychologist, who wrote a book in 1954 called The Nature of Prejudice. According to Allport, theres a pyramid of hate a five-stage model with disparaging remarks about out groups at the bottom and what he called extermination at the top. Failure to tackle this nexus of hatred when stage one rears its ugly head can lead to genocide. When Harry Miller discovered the guidance the police were following was based on this 70-year-old book, he submitted an FOI request to the College to see if it had any evidence to substantiate this hypothesis. Had any research been done to see if the number of hate crimes being committed in England and Wales had declined since NCHIs were introduced in 2014? No, was the answer. They couldnt undertake any research of that nature because the data is all held at a local level. He was told to direct his query to individual police forces. Harry dutifully sent off FOI requests to all 43 police forces in England and Wales. Had any data gathering been carried out? The answer was no again. Those forces that bothered to reply all used the same phrase to explain why no such work had been done: hate crimes and NCHIs were separate and distinct and therefore couldnt be compared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You would have thought that if the police are spending so much time investigating and recording NCHIs 65 a day! theyd be more curious to find out if its having any beneficial effect. But apparently not. Which brings us to the nub of the issue. The reason Essex Police dispatched two officers to interview a middle-aged journalist about a year-old tweet on a Sunday morning wasnt because they genuinely believed she might embark on a crime spree if her hateful behaviour wasnt nipped in the bud, or that she might incite racial hatred. Its because those responsible for devising national police policy people such as Paul Giannasi believe that if you openly flout the new woke public morality you should be punished. Say something that upsets or offends a member of a minority group or one of their self-appointed guardians and you might get a visit from the police. Thats why youre more likely to have an NCHI logged against your name if youre Right-of-centre than Left-of-centre. To date, an ex-Conservative home secretary, a former vice-chairman of the Conservative Party and the ex-deputy leader of the Scottish Conservatives have all had NCHIs recorded against them, but I dont know of a Labour MP whos suffered the same fate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those hailing from the Left who have been investigated, such as Ian Austin and Julie Bindel, have generally diverged from progressive orthodoxy. This goes to show NCHIs are a way to keep people in line and persecute heretics, not prevent crime. The last Conservative government could have got rid of them, but chose not to. Lets hope that if the Tories ever get back into power they put a stop to this thought policing. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Questions continue to mount over Labour MP Kim Leadbeaters Private Members Bill, which if passed would see the introduction of assisted dying in Britain. A new report from the think tank Policy Exchange highlights that experience overseas should give us pause for thought before rushing ahead. As the report sets out, events in Canada provide a revealing and ongoing illustration of the slippery slope inherent in such proposals, and the tendency for the scope of the legislation to expand with time and interpretation. As former chief coroner of England and Wales Thomas Teague KC wrote in endorsement, many of the promised safeguards amount to nothing more than arbitrary restrictions which would be subject to a logically inexorable erosion over time. Baroness Grey-Thompson, meanwhile, notes that the proposed legislation would fundamentally alter the political and societal landscape for disabled people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These concerns are far from merely academic, and experts whose peers would be intimately involved in the process are now stepping forward to express their deeply held misgivings about the proposals. Sir James Munby, former head of the High Courts family division, has warned that the plan to have the courts judges rule on whether an assisted death can go ahead is fundamentally misguided, saying that it is not what judges do and not what judges are for, and noting that the Bill falls lamentably short of providing adequate safeguards. Doctors, too, have expressed concern at being compelled to participate in the killing of patients, that the use of syringe drivers as a potential delivery system could undermine confidence in palliative care and cause patients to refuse adequate medication, and indeed over the complicated and unpleasant nature of the process. It is small wonder, then, that many MPs appear to lack confidence that this legislation is fit for purpose, and it is notable that Health Secretary Wes Streeting is among them. He has expressed fears that patients could feel pressured into opting for assisted dying to avoid piling costs on relatives or the NHS, and stated his intention to vote against the Bill as a result. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the time comes to debate the Bill, MPs should be wary of rushing into a decision they may regret. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. ROME Pope Francis has called for an investigation to determine if Israels attacks in Gaza constitute genocide, according to excerpts released Sunday from an upcoming new book ahead of the pontiffs jubilee year. Its the first time that Francis has openly urged for an investigation of genocide allegations over Israels actions in the Gaza Strip. In September, he said Israels attacks in Gaza and Lebanon have been immoral and disproportionate, and that its military has gone beyond the rules of war. The book, by Hernan Reyes Alcaide and based on interviews with the Pope, is entitled Hope never disappoints. Pilgrims towards a better world. It will be released on Tuesday ahead of the popes 2025 jubilee. Francis yearlong jubilee is expected to bring more than 30 million pilgrims to Rome to celebrate the Holy Year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to some experts, what is happening in Gaza has the characteristics of a genocide, the pope said in excerpts published Sunday by the Italian daily La Stampa. We should investigate carefully to determine whether it fits into the technical definition formulated by jurists and international bodies, he added. Last year, Francis met separately with relatives of Israeli hostages in Gaza and Palestinians living through the war and set off a firestorm by using words that Vatican diplomats usually avoid: terrorism and, according to the Palestinians, genocide. Francis spoke at the time about the suffering of both Israelis and Palestinians after his meetings, which were arranged before the Israeli-Hamas hostage deal and a temporary halt in fighting was announced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pontiff, who last week also met with a delegation of Israeli hostages who were released and their families pressing the campaign to bring the remaining captives home had editorial control over the upcoming book. The war started when Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people and abducting 250 as hostages and taking them back to Gaza, where dozens still remain. Israels subsequent yearlong military campaign has killed more than 43,000 people, according to Gaza health officials, whose count doesnt distinguish between civilians and fighters, though they say more than half of the dead are women and children. The Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza has triggered several legal cases at international courts in The Hague involving requests for arrest warrants as well as accusations and denials of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the new book, Francis also speaks about migration and the problem of integrating migrants in their host countries. Faced with this challenge, no country can be left alone and no one can think of addressing the issue in isolation through more restrictive and repressive laws, sometimes approved under the pressure of fear or in search of electoral advantages, Francis said. On the contrary, just as we see that there is a globalization of indifference, we must respond with the globalization of charity and cooperation, he added. Francis also mentioned the still open wound of the war in Ukraine has led thousands of people to abandon their homes, especially during the first months of the conflict. Reacting to the Jhansi Medical College fire incident, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Sunday expressed grief and pointed out that due to the negligence and the carelessness of the government, ten children died and a huge loss occured. "Sadly, these kinds of incidents are happening today... When children died due to lack of oxygen in Gorakhpur, they should have become careful... Whenever these people go for an inspection or do a surprise inspection, all the arrangements are found to be fine, but as soon as an officer or minister goes, the hospital becomes the same... Did the government give enough budget? Were enough security arrangements made?... Due to this negligence and carelessness of the government, ten children died and such a huge loss occurred," said the SP chief. Earlier on Saturday, Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav demanded strict action from the Uttar Pradesh government against those responsible. She stated that the incident was very unfortunate. I demand that the state government take action against those responsible for the tragedy. My deepest condolences to those who have lost their innocent children. The state government must assist and provide compensation to the affected families, she said. Jhansi District Magistrate Avinash Kumar stated that seven bodies have been identified and handed over to their relatives. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced financial assistance of Rs5 lakh for the families of the deceased newborns. The Uttar Pradesh government formed a high-level committee to probe. The tragedy occurred when a fire, suspected to have been caused by a short circuit in an oxygen concentrator, spread rapidly in the highly oxygenated environment of the NICU, leading to the deaths of 10 newborns. A four-member committee comprising members of the UP health department has been asked to submit its report in seven days. (ANI) ROME (AP) Pope Francis has called for an investigation to determine if Israels attacks in Gaza constitute genocide, according to excerpts released Sunday from an upcoming new book ahead of the pontiff's jubilee year. It's the first time that Francis has openly urged for an investigation of genocide allegations over Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip. In September, he said Israel's attacks in Gaza and Lebanon have been immoral and disproportionate, and that its military has gone beyond the rules of war. The book, by Hernan Reyes Alcaide and based on interviews with the Pope, is entitled Hope never disappoints. Pilgrims towards a better world." It will be released on Tuesday ahead of the pope's 2025 jubilee. Francis yearlong jubilee is expected to bring more than 30 million pilgrims to Rome to celebrate the Holy Year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to some experts, what is happening in Gaza has the characteristics of a genocide, the pope said in excerpts published Sunday by the Italian daily La Stampa. We should investigate carefully to determine whether it fits into the technical definition formulated by jurists and international bodies, he added. Last year, Francis met separately with relatives of Israeli hostages in Gaza and Palestinians living through the war and set off a firestorm by using words that Vatican diplomats usually avoid: terrorism and, according to the Palestinians, genocide. Francis spoke at the time about the suffering of both Israelis and Palestinians after his meetings, which were arranged before the Israeli-Hamas hostage deal and a temporary halt in fighting was announced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pontiff, who last week also met with a delegation of Israeli hostages who were released and their families pressing the campaign to bring the remaining captives home had editorial control over the upcoming book. The war started when the militant Hamas group attacked Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people and abducting 250 as hostages and taking them back to Gaza, where dozens still remain. Israels subsequent yearlong military campaign has killed more than 43,000 people, according to Gaza health officials, whose count doesnt distinguish between civilians and fighters, though they say more than half of the dead are women and children. The Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza has triggered several legal cases at international courts in The Hague involving requests for arrest warrants as well as accusations and denials of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the new book, Francis also speaks about migration and the problem of integrating migrants in their host countries. Faced with this challenge, no country can be left alone and no one can think of addressing the issue in isolation through more restrictive and repressive laws, sometimes approved under the pressure of fear or in search of electoral advantages, Francis said. On the contrary, just as we see that there is a globalization of indifference, we must respond with the globalization of charity and cooperation, he added. Francis also mentioned the still open wound of the war in Ukraine has led thousands of people to abandon their homes, especially during the first months of the conflict. Pope Francis has spoken in favour of an investigation into the accusation that Israel is committing genocide in the Gaza Strip in his forthcoming book, the Italian newspaper La Stampa reported on Sunday. "According to some experts, what is happening in Gaza has the characteristics of genocide. It should be carefully examined to see if it meets the technical definition formulated by jurists and international bodies," La Stampa quoted the head of the Catholic Church as saying. Israel is facing massive international criticism due to the large number of civilian victims in the Gaza Strip and the catastrophic shortages of aid supplies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement South Africa has brought a lawsuit against Israel at the International Court of Justice in The Hague for genocide. The chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, also in the Hague, in May applied for arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defence minister Yoav Gallant, as well as Hamas leaders, for the conduct of the war. Israel has been bombarding the coastal strip since the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. The Hamas-controlled Health Ministry puts the death toll in the Gaza Strip at more than 43,000. The figure cannot be independently verified. The book in which the pope made comments is title "Hope Never Disappoints. Pilgrims Towards a Better World." It will be published in Italy on Tuesday. FULTONDALE, Ala. (WIAT) The Power of Life Foundation will host its fifth annual Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway on Nov. 23. According to the organization, the event will last from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 3020 Hawkins Ln. in Fultondale. There will be 500 free turkeys available. They will be limited to one per car. Flu cases down, vaccines evolving each year The Power of Life Foundation is a Birmingham-based organization that aims to empower underserved populations across the country, including those living below the poverty level, women and children, senior citizens, veterans and at-risk youth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) Rockford Police are warning motorists Saturday night to avoid Auburn Street due to a safety hazard caused by downed power lines. According to police, a car hit an electric pole in the 2300 block of Auburn Street, between Ridge Avenue and N. Rockton Avenue, prior to 10:54 p.m. Police said power lines are down across all lanes and access cannot be gained. Authorities are asking the public to avoid travel in the area until the hazard can be cleared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports. (Bloomberg) -- Ukraine powered down most of the remaining operational nuclear reactors under its control following a massive overnight Russian missile and drone attack. Most Read from Bloomberg Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Staff from the International Atomic Energy Agency stationed at plants in Ukraine reported that only two of nine reactors were generating electricity at full capacity on Sunday. Generation was dialed down to between 40% and 90% of capacity at the other units, according to a statement from the UNs nuclear watchdog. The countrys energy infrastructure is extremely vulnerable, directly impacting nuclear safety and security, said IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi. He added that inspectors are evaluating he full extent of the damage. Russia launched one of its largest missile barrages against Ukraine on Sunday as the full-scale invasion of its neighbor nears the 1,000-day mark. About 120 cruise, ballistic and aeroballistic missiles and 90 drones were fired by Kremlin forces operating from bomber jets and ships, Ukraines air force said. An IAEA team based at the Khmelnytskyy Nuclear Power Plant reported hearing a loud explosion, while others stationed at the Rivne site reported that high-voltage power lines were unavailable. Both facilities are in western Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine has warned that air strikes against critical power substations could trigger an emergency at one of the three operating nuclear power plants still under Kyivs control. Substations maintain stability by regulating high-voltage transmission on power grids. Unlike fossil fuel or renewable plants, nuclear generation needs a constant flow of electricity to keep safety systems running. Without it, fuel inside a reactors core risks overheating, potentially resulting in a dangerous release of radiation. Ukraine has thousands of electricity substations. But at stake are ten crucial nodes linked to atomic power plants, whose destruction could plunge the country into darkness and provoke a radiological emergency, Ukraines Energy Minister German Galushchenko told Bloomberg News in a September interview. The IAEA teams visited seven substations located outside the nuclear power plants across the country in September and October to assess the damage from attacks in August, and will assess whether further visits are required following todays military activities, Grossi said on Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Emma Baum was nine months pregnant when she was last seen on Oct. 10 Missing People In America/Facebook Emma Baum Emma Baum More than a month after Emma Baum went missing, her family is still looking for answers. The 25-year-old woman was last seen on Oct. 10 in Gary, Indiana, on 25th Avenue and Connecticut Street, ABC 7 Chicago reported. She was nine months pregnant at the time. According to CBS News, Emma had gone to see the father of her unborn child that day, in an area known to be desolate, and did not have a working phone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Friends and family members have been looking for her since, handing out flyers and seeking clues to her disappearance. She was reported missing to the Gary Police Department on Oct. 28, per Chicago outlet WGN9 News. During an emotional news conference on Friday, Nov. 15, her family addressed the tragic situation. "I have stopped people in their cars. I have stopped people walking. I have talked to anybody I could. We're looking in abandoned houses," Emma's sister Hailey Baum said during the conference, according to CBS News. Missing People In America/Facebook Emma Baum Emma Baum "We love you, Emma. And if you can hear us, there is nothing that you have done to make any of us stop loving you," Emma's other sister, Abigale Smith, said, per WGN9 News. "We trust that somebody knows something, and we want her home." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Emma's mother, Jamie Baum, told reporters, "We're always going to look for her. I'm never going to stop looking for her." "My whole family will never stop looking for you, Emma," she added, per CBS News. According to NBC Chicago, Emma's boyfriend and the father of her unborn child was picked up on a warrant. He is currently in custody for an unrelated matter and has not been charged in connection with Emma's disappearance, Gary Police commander Jack Hamady told the outlet. Gary Police Department/Facebook Emma Baum Emma Baum Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Emma is 5 feet and 3 inches tall and has brown hair and brown eyes. She has several tattoos along with scars on her arms. She is known to experiment with different colored wigs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Emma's family, she has three other children. She may already have given birth. Anyone with information on Emma's disappearance is asked to contact the Gary Police Department at (219) 881-1209. An earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 3.5 struck the Inland Empire on Saturday, which was felt by residents across a large swath of the region. The quake, reported at 2:17 p.m. according to the United States Geological Survey, hit about 5 miles northwest of Fontana. As of 2:40 p.m., there were no reports of injury or damage. This is a developing story. Stay with KTLA 5 News for updates. Latest California Earthquakes. Please wait a moment for map to load. Use controls or your thumb to move and zoom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thousands of earthquakes are recorded in California yearly, but the vast majority are extremely minor. Several hundred reach a magnitude of 3.0, and only about 15 to 20 are greater than magnitude 4.0, according to the USGS. In North America, only Alaska records more quakes per year than California. What to do in an earthquake During an earthquake, its crucial to know the proper steps to protect yourself and minimize injury. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) provides detailed guidelines on what to do during such events. Here are the key points: Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Drop: Immediately drop down onto your hands and knees. This position prevents you from being knocked over and allows you to stay low and crawl to safety if necessary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cover: Use one arm to protect your head and neck, and if possible, take shelter under a sturdy table or desk. If no shelter is available, get down next to an interior wall away from windows. Stay on your knees and bend over to protect vital organs. Hold On: Hold on to your shelter until the shaking stops. Be prepared to move with your shelter if it shifts. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Delhi Transport Commission employees on Sunday staged a protest in Sarojini Nagar. The protestors raised slogans," Bharat Mata Ki Jai," Equal work, Equal pay". Give a guarantee of the 60 years of employment, they demanded. The protests came on a day when Delhi Minister for Transport, Kailash Gahlot, resigned from the Aam Admi Party. AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh claimed that Kailash Gahlot had to take this step as the BJP put an allegation of Rs 112 crores on him and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted several raids on his home in the last few days. "Kailash Gahlot's resignation is a part of the BJP's dirty politics and conspiracy. The BJP government conducted ED raids on him. Income tax raids were conducted at his residence for several days. BJP put an allegation of Rs 112 crores on him. Pressure was created on him, due to which Kailash Gahlot had to take this step. He did not have any option other than joining the BJP," Sanjay Singh said. Earlier today, Kailash Gahlot resigned from AAP, citing deep concerns over the party's direction and internal challenges, saying that the political ambitions within the party have overshadowed its core commitment to serving the people. Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi has accepted Kailash Gahlot's resignation which came ahead of the assembly polls in the National Capital in 2025. Notably, Gahlot, in his resignation letter, criticised the shift in the party's focus from advocating for the rights of the people to advance its own political agenda, a shift he said has hindered AAP's ability to provide basic services to the residents of Delhi. He highlighted the unfulfilled promise of cleaning the Yamuna River, which remains more polluted than ever, and expressed concern over controversies like the 'Sheeshmahal' issue, which, he said, have led people to question whether AAP still upholds its commitment to being a party of the "Aam Aadmi." Kailash Gahlot also cited internal challenges and unfulfilled promises, including the failure to clean the Yamuna River. He criticized the party's shift from serving the people to prioritizing political ambitions, which he said has hindered basic service delivery in Delhi. (ANI) German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Sunday faced mounting pressure from within his party to clear the way for Defence Minister Boris Pistorius to run as the Social Democrats (SPD) candidate for chancellor in the upcoming elections. Joe Weingarten and Johannes Arlt became the first SPD members of parliament to call publicly for Pistorius, who is far more popular than Scholz in opinion polls, to run for chancellor. "It is my clear opinion that we should go into the election campaign with Boris Pistorius," Weingarten told the Suddeutsche Zeitung newspaper on Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shortly afterwards, Arlt told the Tagesspiegel newspaper: "Boris Pistorius would be an excellent SPD chancellor candidate. In my opinion, he is ideally suited to lead our party into the election campaign." Arlt added that Pistorius holds "the most difficult ministerial office" and can "explain political decisions to people in simple, clear terms." Scholz announced his intention to run again for the top job in July, months before the collapse of his coalition last week set the country on its path towards early elections, now expected in February instead of September. The chancellor has stood firmly behind his plans. "The SPD and I are ready to go into this debate, with the aim of winning, by the way," he said before flying to Brazil for the G20 summit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The party leadership and Pistorius himself have repeatedly assured Scholz of their backing. "Olaf Scholz is the chancellor. And everyone who has responsibility in the SPD has made it clear in recent days that we stand behind him," SPD co-leader Lars Klingbeil said on Saturday. When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Credit: Archewell Prince Harry is reportedly preparing to make his case in court. On Friday, Nov. 16, the Duke of Sussex's attorney, David Sherborne, confirmed that the royal's legal case against New Group Newspapers (NGN), the publisher of the U.K. tabloid The Sun, will continue and is expected to go to trial in January 2025, People reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NGN is owned by Rupert Murdoch, the controversial media mogul who also founded Fox News. Prince Harry has accused the publisher of phone hacking and carrying out other "privacy violations" between 1996 and 2011 that amount to illegal information gathering. The Duke of Sussex alleges both The Sun and the now-defunct publication News of the World were targeting him by using those alleged practices. NGN has denied the allegations or any wrongdoing. According to People, the High Court ruled that Prince Harry's legal team could access "additional emails between senior NGN staff and royal household members," which were argued to be "crucial" to the Duke of Sussex's ongoing case. Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex attends a Sentebale reception and panel discussion at The Saxon Hotel in Johannesburg, South Africa. People reports that the judge, Justice Fancourt, ruled there was sufficient justification for the emails in question to be disclosed, saying that there is a credible case for saying a full picture is necessary in the interest of justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prince Harry has been involved in a number of high-profile and contentious legal fights over his privacy and security for some time. In 2022, the Duke of Sussex won a defamation lawsuit against The Mail on Sunday. The legal winone of the royal's firstscame after he filed a lawsuit against Associated Newspapers , which publishes the Daily Mail and The Mail on Sunday, that same year. Prince Harry sued the publisher for claiming the royal had hidden the fact that he was suing the U.K. government, and for alleging that he hadn't offered to pay for his and his family's own police protection for their Jubilee visit. One year prior, Prince Harry's wife Meghan Markle won her own lawsuit against Associated Newspapers for breach of privacy, which included a front-page apology from the paper . Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stand together in their home for a video Prince Harry has remained extremely concerned about his safety and the safety of his family after the monarchy stripped him of his publicly funded security detail in 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Duke of Sussex recently revealed that he believes "it's still dangerous" to bring Markle back to the U.K. without proper security. He reportedly feels the same about their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. As a result, and in addition to taking prominent U.K. tabloids and their publishers to court, Prince Harry has launched a legal attack regarding his family's lack of security protection overseas. A source close to Prince Harry and his family, however, recently claimed that the Duchess of Sussex wants her husband to move on from his various legal battles. Rachel Reevess decision to impose VAT on school fees from January is set to prove as calamitous as its opponents feared. Small schools will close, children will be uprooted from their friends mid-year, and exactly the situation that Labour supposedly objects to that public schools are largely the preserve of the rich will gradually become true. If there is any good to come out of this nasty, vindictive strike against aspirational parents, it is that Conservative politicians are finally vocally standing up for independent schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the last two decades, the Tory politician who would unashamedly celebrate the value of private education has been a rare beast indeed. This is partly perhaps even largely explained by Tory leaders David Cameron and Boris Johnson overcompensating for their Eton schooldays. The overwhelming majority of the 620,000 children attending over 2,500 independent schools are at establishments which have very little in common with the Windsor-facing institution. But the shadow it cast had its deleterious effect on Tory education policy. Increases by the last Conservative government to employer contributions to the pay-as-you-go Teachers Pension Scheme the vast majority of the larger, more established independent schools have been part of it hit private schools hard, while the state sector was compensated. This hidden Tory imposition was in fact almost as significant as Labours VAT raid. Employment costs rose by over 12pc, leading to consequential fee hikes. Reevess exact VAT ruse was floated by Tory eminence grise Michael Gove in a rival newspaper in 2017, when he was briefly relegated to the backbenches. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But now the Conservatives are loud and proud in their support of parental choice, they could do better at the next election than simply saying they will reverse Labours vengeful levy. They could reclaim an idea extolled by Milton Friedman and favoured by Margaret Thatcher, but shelved for being too radical the education voucher. And they may even find the policy remarkably popular. In England this year, the spending per child at a state school stands at 7,690 it is slightly higher in Wales, and is more than 8,500 in Scotland. What if parents could choose to take this money and spend it with any provider of their choice? It will clearly not come close to covering the fees of most independent schools fees at London secondary day schools are around 8,000 per term and above, 24,000 per year plus. But it would mean many more parents could consider the option. The middle classes would get something back for their taxes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some past advocates of vouchers have squeamishly suggested that they should not be topped up, but this rather defeats their purpose. Some vouchers will of course go to those who do not need them, but so what? They are paying enough as it is. Tories should be concerned about the aspirational whose opportunities have thus been expanded. The policy would have one other major attraction. Critics of Britains public school scene argue with some justification that this market has become rather ossified and that many providers are inefficient. Traditionally independent schools have either operated as self-perpetuating charitable trusts, true of all the renowned public schools, or as owner-operated ventures, true for many prep schools. Great results have ensued, but these are not always the most dynamic of structures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In more recent years, corporate entities have started entering the private school scene. Most are still operating at the traditional, high-cost model. But the introduction of education vouchers would surely result in many more such entrants into the market. Low-cost providers would directly compete with the state in offering education at the cover price of the voucher or with a modest supplement of a few thousand pounds. Independent education could really become an option for the many, not the few. If Kemi Badenoch was the Tory prime minister to achieve this, she would have instantly ensured that she would have a legacy to be proud of and generations of parents would be grateful for. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Avi Rachlin, representing Groypers for America, testifying Thursday to the Michigan Senate Civil Rights, Judiciary and Public Safety Committee against bills to largely ban guns in the capitol complex in Lansing. Nov. 14, 2024. A far-right activist testifying against bills to ban guns from the Michigan Capitol in Lansing, which he claimed targeted white people, was gaveled down Thursday and dismissed after using the n-word. The individual in question identified himself as Avi Rachlin, while his sign-in card said he was representing Groypers for America, referencing a far-right movement associated with white supremacist Nick Fuentes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Testifying to the Michigan Senate Civil Rights, Judiciary and Public Safety Committee, Rachlin immediately began his remarks by angrily denouncing the bills, talking so loud that it distorted the audio being recorded. Absolutely not. That is the message that voters sent last week when they decided to eject representatives from the state House and send Donald Trump into the White House. And rather than recognizing the will of the people in deciding to restore Republicans to the state house, Democrats have embarked on an effort of retaliation and retribution At that point, the committee chair, state Sen. Stephanie Chang (D-Detroit), cut off Rachlin and asked him to speak to the bills at hand. From there, Rachlin, who is a former regional director for Michigan Open Carry, alleged a racial component behind the legislation. This is legislation that targets white people. It is racial because the people who carry in the capital are primarily white. People who have CPLs [concealed pistol license] are primarily white, and this is retaliation for the only demographic that overwhelmingly voted to support Donald Trump. And that is why it is being taken out on us because you dont like us, Rachlin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rachlin became increasingly angry leading up to when he used the slur. If you want to address gun violence, we would be focusing on the people who bring guns into communities and shoot people like where I live in Detroit where you represent Stephanie Chang, which are overwhelmingly 13-to-34-year-old Sub-Saharan African nirs. Those are the people who Chang immediately gaveled down Rachlin and said they were moving on. I am testifying, said Rachlin. Yep. And I am the chair, and I have gaveled you down, said Chang. Rachlin then angrily asked if Chang was going to have armed guards remove him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Armed men with guns? he said. Sen. Jim Runestad (R-White Lake) then spoke up. Did I just hear you call a group of people by some epithet? he asked Rachlin. Yes, said Rachlin. The idea that this is aimed at white people. I know so many different groups from minority communities that are armed, that carry concealed. Its just a ridiculous argument, said Runestad. Sen. Ruth Johnson (R-Holly) then interjected. The term that you used is inappropriate and it will not get you anywhere in this Legislature, she said. The committee then moved on and Rachlin gathered his things and left. The committee voted 4-2, with Runestad and Johnson opposed, to send SB 857 and SB 858 to the full Senate for debate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The package would largely prohibit guns inside the three buildings that make up the Capitol complex in Lansing: the Michigan Capitol, the Anderson House Office Building and the Binsfeld Senate Office Building. The main exception would be for a lawmaker with a CPL, who could still carry a weapon in the buildings. The bills essentially codify a decision made last year by the bipartisan Michigan State Capitol Commission to institute the ban in the Capitol building, and extend it to the Anderson and Binsfeld buildings where lawmakers offices are located. After the committee hearing, Chang posted Rachlins name to social media, and noted that when he was a student at Penn State University, his peers referred to him as a violent, misogynist, homophobic, white supremacist, referencing a petition initiated by students to have him expelled after an incident in which Rachlin got into a physical altercation with an assistant professor during a vaccine rally in 2021. Rachlin uses the username avsterbone on social media and responded to Changs post with one of his own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps Project 2025 will deport you and your parents back to Taiwan, he posted. Maybe living under the constant fear China will one day seize your island might make you reconsider your current push here to disarm White people. Thankfully, youre termed out and will be gone in 2026. Chang is the first Taiwanese American Michigander elected to the Legislature. State Sen. Kevin Hertel (D-East Lansing) called out Rachlins comments. This is the rhetoric of [a] weak person who has run out of any valuable argument. While I dont like giving it any attention, its important to be clear eyed that this type of hatred still exists, posted Hertel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of those testifying in favor of the bills who spoke prior to Rachlin, was state Sen. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing), who recalled COVID-19 pandemic protests in 2020 in which gun rights advocates were allowed to bring long guns into the Senate gallery. It was just a few years ago that many of us were in this building absolutely terrified as firearms were pointed at us while we were trying to do our jobs, said Anthony, who was interrupted several times by Runestad, who questioned if she had reported to Capitol security that guns had actually been pointed at her. Anthony said she had done so, both to the Michigan State Police, as well as House sergeants. When Runestad again interrupted Anthony, she reminded him that she was speaking and said, I raised a lot of nieces and nephews, and Im not shy when it comes to addressing temper tantrums. Speaking with the Michigan Advance after the session, Anthony said the exchange with Runestad may have indirectly encouraged Rachlins later comments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He just wouldnt let me talk, and he wouldnt let me speak in an honest manner and so I was a little shaken up by it, she said. I dont like bullies. Ive never liked bullies, even when I was a child. I just have always felt like people should give folks respect, even when you disagree. State Sen. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing), chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee. | Kyle Davidson Anthony said the combative comments from Runestad created an environment in which someone else felt comfortable enough to use a racial slur. Myself and Rep. Felicia Brabec (D-Pittsfield Twp.), were the two Black women that were testifying about this issue. And so when you use the n-word as a part of your justification of why you want to continue to have firearms in the Capitol, its hurtful, right? Its hurtful. Its direct and the lack of civility amongst colleagues creates an environment, in my opinion, that makes it easier for the public to come in and use derogatory terms, said Anthony. Lavora Barnes, the first Black woman to chair the Michigan Democratic Party, also spoke out against Rachlin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The vile language used today was unacceptable, and every lawmaker in attendance should be making it very clear that no matter who you are or what you support bigotry and hatred have no place in our legislature or political discourse. The group he belongs to, Groypers for America, is known for espousing racist, antisemitic language, and they should be nowhere near Michigan politics. Anthony says she just hopes this isnt a glimpse into the new normal in political discourse. I hope were not in a place that this becomes the norm. That whether its lawmakers or the public, just dont treat each other with respect and civility, and a lot of that, folks feel very emboldened by Trump. And Im sad for what that looks like for the future, she said. I dont want to have to go back to wearing a bulletproof vest to work. Its very, very, very uncomfortable. I want to focus on doing things like balancing the states budget, not making sure theres not bullets thats flying in this building. Advance reporter Kyle Davidson contributed to this story. KAHUKU, Hawaii (KHON2) Several professional surfers spent the day surfing with kids battling cystic fibrosis on Oahus North Shore. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news Surfers Koa Rothman, Eli Olson, Jamie OBrien, Sally Cohen and others surfed for several hours with kids from across Oahu battling CF, a disease that impacts the lungs. The Mauli Ola Foundation has been touring across the country for years, visiting kids at hospitals and taking others out to surf for salt water therapy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement History of surfing ahead of the Olympic Games What we do is introduce surfing as a natural therapy for cystic fibrosis, explained Mauli Ola Foundation executive director Hans Hagen. Its a pulmonary disease and a digestive disease, and its proven to be a natural therapy. Surfing is also a spiritual activity and its a pleasant distraction and just something to get their minds off of the hard regimen they have with their health, he added. The event took place at Jamie OBriens Surf School located at Turtle Bay on Oahus North Shore with food donated from Pupukea Grill. Click here to learn more about the Mauli Ola Foundation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. Guest Opinion. We represent approximately 320,000 citizens of the Cherokee Nation. Progress for at-large citizens has been the result of decades of advocacy by various leaders and Cherokees at the grassroots level. Although there is still more work to do, the progress made in recent years is significant. It is important to acknowledge a basic challenge for the Cherokee Nations government in serving its at-large citizens. Although the Cherokee Nations budget has grown due to increased revenue from tribal businesses, a majority of the funding comes from federal programs. Never miss Indian Countrys biggest stories and breaking news. Click here to sign up to get our reporting sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The federal government has a trust obligation to the Cherokee Nation, which includes funding for certain programs and services. Often, these federal funds, which meet only a fraction of the need, are tied to investments within the reservation, such as infrastructure, or benefits tied to residency, such as housing. Even with federal red tape holding back benefits for at-large citizens, Cherokee leaders are increasingly using the tribe's general fund revenue mostly from money generated by tribal businesses to support at-large citizens. Examples abound. Today, more Cherokees receive college scholarships than ever. Legislation we sponsored earlier this year increased the scholarships and locked in special funding for Cherokee citizens. This semester alone, over 1,300 Cherokee students are attending college on a Cherokee scholarship. Limits within education programs such as income remain. However, we plan to eliminate these restrictions as our business revenues increase. We are also working toward expanding career pathways for Cherokees to come home and serve their tribe after completing their educational goals. The new College Intern program, which is open to at-large citizens, is just one example. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are seizing opportunities to improve at-large access to health care. In recent years, the hearing aid and eyeglasses programs for Cherokees expanded. Our new Patient Experience Team was hired specifically to assist at-large citizens by helping them connect with health care resources and by facilitating appointments for those who can travel to our state-of-the-art health facilities. We also see a future in which telemedicine is accessible to at-large citizens, and we are working tirelessly toward that vision. Cherokee Nation recently secured $86 million in federal small business loan assistance. We worked with Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. and Deputy Chief Bryan Warner to ensure that all citizens had access to these funds. Chief Hoskin recently announced a July 2025 target for including all citizens in the program. Every Cherokee can play a role in revitalizing our language, preserving our shared culture, learning our history, and organizing socially. We live in a time where at-large Cherokees have the support and encouragement to participate in those efforts, including through our Community and Cultural Outreach department. At-large community organizing is nothing new, but those efforts are getting a boost. The budget that the Council of the Cherokee Nation approved in September includes new funding for all 26 at-large community organizations to fund their own wellness initiatives. The Gadugi Corps program, enacted by the Council earlier in the year, is bringing at-large Cherokees home to improve communities within the reservation. At-large community organizations are also hosting new language and history courses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At-large Cherokees are stepping up their civic action. At-large voters cast over 3,600 votes in the 2023 general election and continue to register to vote at every at-large gathering. At-large Cherokees use the citizen action page on the tribes Cherokee.org website and visit CherokeeDelegate.com to help advance Cherokee Nation policies. They also stay connected at CherokeesAtLarge.org and our social media platforms. We are proud of how well we work together and enjoy ample support from our colleagues on the Council. Through cooperation and collaboration, the old Council view of us versus them has given way to a stronger sense of we are all Cherokee, no matter where we live. There are numerous examples of this cooperative spirit not just between us and the rest of the Council but also between the Council and the Executive Branch. Without question, today there are more resources and opportunities flowing to citizens at large, as well as better outreach, than at any other time in history. We are on the right track. Nonetheless, although we have made progress, there remains significant work ahead. For us, it transcends mere figures on a budget spreadsheet. It represents a genuine sense of gadugi, free from geographical barriers. Our nation grows stronger when Cherokee citizens, wherever they are, actively participate in their tribe on all levels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We invite you all to follow us on our social media platforms so we can better keep you updated on our efforts to represent you on the Council: Dr. Julia Coates, www.facebook.com/CouncilorJuliaCoates, and Johnny Jack Kidwell, https://linktr.ee/johnnyjkidwell Dr, Julia Coates and Johnny Jack Kidwell are at-large tribal councilors. About the Author: "Levi \"Calm Before the Storm\" Rickert (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation) is the founder, publisher and editor of Native News Online. Rickert was awarded Best Column 2021 Native Media Award for the print\/online category by the Native American Journalists Association. He serves on the advisory board of the Multicultural Media Correspondents Association. He can be reached at levi@nativenewsonline.net." Contact: levi@nativenewsonline.net (NewsNation) The key figure behind Project 2025, a controversial conservative presidential blueprint, congratulated Donald Trump on his election victory. We look forward to this historic term, during which President Trump has an opportunity to make America great, healthy, safe, and prosperous once again, said Kevin Roberts, president of The Heritage Foundation, in an online statement on Election Day. Project 2025 is a nearly 1,000-page handbook from conservative think tank The Heritage Foundation, and the authors refer to it as a guide on what the next president needs to do to undo the damage to America they claim has been caused by liberal politicians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How Project 2025s rightward vision became a flashpoint in this years election It acts as a manual for the next Republican president, detailing ways to reshape and give the executive branch more power. The entire conservative movement stands united behind him, Roberts said. Many of Trumps former aides have authored parts of the document, although Trump said during his campaign that he did not know about it. The Heritage Foundation has issued six statements on Trumps nominations for his second administration. Project 2025 mischaracterized by left: The Heritage Foundation president The creation of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is a welcome and long-overdue step toward addressing government waste and restoring fiscal discipline to the federal budget, said David Ditch, senior policy analyst at The Heritage Foundation, in a news release Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump appointed tech entrepreneurs and billionaires Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to head the inaugural Department of Energy. The organization also praised Trumps appointments of Tom Homan as Border Czar, news anchor Pete Hegseth as defense secretary, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio as secretary of state, and former national intelligence director John Ratcliffe as CIA chief. Pete Hegseth is a tremendous choice for Secretary of Defense, Roberts said in a post on X, which was paired with a picture of a Jerusalem Cross. The Heritage Foundation also praised the selection of former presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the secretary of Human and Health Services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This nomination sends a clear message to our failed public health establishment: Americans are sick and tired of being sick and tired, Roberts said in a news release Thursday. Under President Trump and Secretary Kennedy, those Americans will be in control of their health, not the commissars of three-letter health agencies. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. TBILISI, Georgia (AP) Opposition protesters in Georgias breakaway province of Abkhazia on Sunday refused to cede control of key government buildings seized during rallies earlier in the week during which at least 14 people were injured in clashes with police. Demonstrators stormed the buildings Friday to protest new measures allowing Russians to buy property in the seaside region. Protesters on Sunday continued to demand the ouster of self-styled Abkhazian President Aslan Bzhania, and one prominent politician vowed that the opposition would form a rival government if he refuses to step down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If our demands for the presidents resignation are not met, we will have to form a temporary government to ensure the normal functioning of state bodies, Temur Gulia told his supporters, according to local agencies. Bzhania, who is backed by Russia, signaled Sunday that he was prepared to step aside temporarily and hold early elections, even as he continued to slam the demonstrations as an attempted coup detat. Opponents of the property agreement say it will drive up prices of apartments and boost Moscows dominance in the region. On Saturday, Bzhania announced that he would only agree to a snap election if demonstrators vacated the regions parliament building. But crowds that gathered in the Abkhazian capital, Sukhumi, rejected the deal and opposition leaders said they would only accept Bzhanias unconditional resignation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, protesters on Sunday began dismantling the security barriers around the government complex in Sukhumi. One prominent opposition figure called the metal barriers a symbol of the authorities being out of touch. This barrier shows that the government has decided to fence itself off from its people, Adgur Ardzinba said, according to local media. Most of Abkhazia broke away from Georgia in fighting that ended in 1993, and Georgia lost control of the rest of the territory in the short war with Russia in 2008. Russia recognizes Abkhazia as an independent country, but many Abkhazians are concerned that the region of about 245,000 people is a client state of Moscow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abkhazias mountains and Black Sea beaches make it a popular destination for Russian tourists and the demand for holiday homes could be strong. At least 14 people were injured Friday when opposition protesters clashed with police, Russian state agencies reported. Lawmakers had gathered at the regions parliament building to discuss ratifying measures allowing Russian citizens to buy property in the breakaway state. However, the session was postponed as demonstrators broke down the gate to the buildings grounds with a truck and streamed inside. Some threw rocks at police, who responded with tear gas. The arrest of five opposition figures at a similar demonstration Monday set off widespread protests the next day in which bridges leading to Sukhumi were blocked. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A new form of emergency housing has been found to substantially improve outcomes for people experiencing homelessness in the state of Oregon, according to a new report. Conducted by researchers from Portland State University, the report focused on the impacts of Project Turnkey, in which the Oregon legislature funded 19 specific sites for $74.47 million. The funding allowed communities to buy local motels and convert them into emergency shelters, known as Turnkey sites. According to the researchers, typical emergency shelters have guests share a large common sleeping area, require them to leave during the day and only stay in the shelter for 30 days or less. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elephants Deli truck stolen, worker jumps off; 1 arrested However, Turnkey sites allow guests to stay in private rooms, provide access to food and hygiene supplies, case management, as well as other on-site services. Additionally, they arent required to leave the shelter during the day and can stay at the site for at least three months. The report also noted guests voiced a sense of community between them and shelter staff, allowing for progress and to get things in order. I couldnt have done it anywhere else, one guest said. Fifteen of the 19 sites provided data for the report, which found 42.2% of residents at the sites returned to unsheltered homelessness after their stays. However, of the former residents surveyed, 27.9% went into permanent housing, 11.6% into temporary housing and 9.5% landed in emergency shelters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The reports lead researcher Anna Rockhill said these numbers signify a key turning point in how the state deals with the homelessness crisis. I think it points to a missing piece in that continuum in most communities, she said. Emergency shelters, congregate shelters, the traditional emergency shelters probably have their place. They probably do give somebody an opportunity not to be outside when its freezing. But in terms of really assisting people to move forward into something thats more stable, that meets their needs, and frankly, to deal with the systems that we make people have to navigate, thats not enough. Overall, Rockhill said the goal is to provide policymakers with specific analysis of what worked in Project Turnkey, so it can be replicated in other projects across the state. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) The opening celebration of the 31st annual Festival of Trees is fast approaching and the community is invited to attend. According to a release, the Festival of Trees will begin on Monday, November 25, at the Ho-Chunk Center in Sioux City. Proceeds from this years auction will go toward Simple Life. ArtSplash announcing changes for 2025 The release states that the Grace United Methodist Church Sold Brass Bell Choir will ring in the Festival of Trees with a performance beginning at 6:15 p.m. Guests will also be able to enjoy performances by Socorras Performing Arts, the Arena Dance Academy, and the Sioux Crew Hip Hop Group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Decorated holiday trees, wreaths, and other items will be donated by local businesses, individuals, families, schools, and organizations, according to the release. The public may view the trees until December 5 during viewing hours; Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. Local celebrities at the event will be judging the items on display and choosing their favorites in different categories as part of the Critics Choice Awards. Young girl receives adaptive bike at Sioux City Hy-Vee The release noted that the Festival of Trees will have a Giving Tree for anyone who would like to donate an item to the charity. Take a card from the tree, purchase the item on the card, and return it to the Giving Tree by December 5. Simple Life will distribute the donations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, on December 5, the live auction will be conducted by Bruce Brock starting at 6:30 p.m. to raise money for Simple Life. The release specified that from November 25 through December 4, silent bids will be taken, with the auction starting at the highest confirmed silent bid. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. Governor of Karnataka, Thaawarchand Gehlot, on Sunday flagged off a delegation to participate in the prestigious "Leadership Summit-2024" in London. The event aims to bring together thought leaders, media professionals, and dignitaries from across the world to discuss global leadership trends and foster cross-cultural exchanges. The flag-off ceremony took place at Raj Bhavan, Karnataka. In his address, the Governor emphasized the pivotal role that newspapers and news channels play in modern democracies. He remarked, "In today's populist democratic system, newspapers and media outlets are not just communication tools but also vital resources for promoting democratic values, constitutional principles, and societal awareness. They are instrumental in strengthening democracy." The governor also lauded the contributions of media houses highlighting their significant role in bridging the public and the government. "These media organizations effectively highlight public issues, social concerns, economic challenges, and matters of national and international importance, thereby keeping the public well-informed," the Governor said. He further commended the ongoing efforts of the media houses to foster social equality and harmony by engaging millions of people through various initiatives. "The London Leadership Summit is a unique platform that not only acknowledges the talents of Karnataka but also offers an opportunity to showcase India's rich culture and heritage while engaging with global perspectives," the Governor added. The Governor further stressed the importance of collective efforts in nation-building, stating, "As our country rapidly progresses towards becoming a developed nation, everyone must participate in bringing India to the forefront of global development in the years to come." (ANI) If youre fortunate enough to have a seat at the table, there are times when you have a duty to turn that table over, especially when the stakes are this high. Right now, public schools are that table in Oklahoma a place where every child, regardless of background or circumstance, is guaranteed a spot. These schools are often a sanctuary for kids who have nowhere else to go, kids who need a hot meal, a safe place to rest, or even a moment of kindness. Yet here we are, witnessing a dismantling of that support system, one chair at a time, led by state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters. More: Opinion: Public education is the most important investment we can make. Let's demand better Let's be clear, our public schools, especially in rural Oklahoma, are more than classrooms.Theyre lifelines, often the only stable spaces in a childs life offering warmth, acceptance and care. In Wilburton, as in countless small towns across the state, our schools are the heartbeat of the community. My family has long been part of this system. My mother served on our local school board for 22 years, most recently as president, and my grandfather held the same role when my father was growing up. I spent 13 years alongside the same classmates I graduated with in 2010. Generations of my family have walked these halls, and now, returning home, I feel the weight and responsibility to protect what others built for us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Walters, who once taught just down the road, has seemingly forgotten the role that public schools play in communities like ours. Instead of investing in these schools, where every child has a place, hes advocating for tax-funded private Christian schools institutions that cater to wealthier families, leaving rural towns like Wilburton behind. These so-called parental choice tax credits amount to little more than financial favors for affluent families who have rarely set foot in a rural public school, much less rely on one. And theyre certainly not bringing these private schools to small towns, where the nearest option might be in the next county. The irony is striking: while public schools struggle to pay teachers and keep the lights on,private schools stand to gain up to $7,500 in taxpayer-funded credits per child, withoutoversight. This isnt education reform; its a taxpayer-funded giveaway to private interests.Meanwhile, rural schools, often the only option for miles, are left scraping together resources to offer even the basics. That money our taxes should be spent to support public schools, not fill the coffers of private entities that have little interest in supporting all Oklahomas children. To those who value fair and effective use of taxpayer dollars, how does this make sense? Why should families in Oklahoma, already struggling to keep public schools afloat, fund private institutions? Tax credits like these arent about choice theyre a siphon, diverting public funds into private hands and leaving rural schools, and the communities that rely on them, with dwindling resources. For those who claim to care about fiscal responsibility, its hard to justify this. And if were bringing faith into it, lets remember that Jesus wouldnt support policies thatmarginalize or exclude. I cant help but think that if He were at these Board of Educationmeetings, Hed be flipping tables over the hypocrisy. A true, living faith would demandcompassion for the vulnerable and justice for the underserved, not financial rewards for the already privileged. The Jesus I know wouldnt turn His back on kids who need a meal, a warm coat, or a place to feel safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lets call this what it is: unfettered, taxpayer-funded greed disguised as choice, when in reality, its a choice that leaves rural schools in crisis. And in these rural areas, children are growing up amidst high rates of domestic violence, food insecurity, and mental health struggles, with public schools as their only dependable sanctuary. To dismantle this system isnt just misguided; its an affront to basic humanity. More: Opinion: Education in Oklahoma is at a critical point. Support systems are failing. This is a crucial moment for Oklahoma. We must protect the public schools that are the beating heart of this state, not sell them out. Public education isnt a business its a promise we make to every child, a commitment to a future that values them all. For those of us who care about Oklahomas children, the time to act is now. Hannah Royce Hannah Royce is a creative producer, writer and artist. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Public schools are the heartbeat of rural Oklahoma communities|Opinion BERLIN (AP) Prominent Russian opposition figures led a march of at least 1,000 people in central Berlin Sunday, criticizing Russian President Vladimir Putin and his war in Ukraine and calling for democracy in Russia. Behind a banner that read No Putin. No War, the protesters were led by Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of top Putin critic Alexei Navalny, as well as Ilya Yashin and Vladimir Kara-Murza, who were freed from Russian detention in a high-profile prisoner exchange this summer. Shouting Russia without Putin and other chants in Russian, the demonstrators held up signs with a wide array of messages on a red background, including Putin = War and Putin is a murderer in German. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some marched with the flags of Russia or Ukraine, as well as a white-blue-white flag used by some Russian opposition groups. Organizers said the march began near Potsdamer Platz and went through the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie and was expected to end outside the Russian Embassy. The march demands the immediate withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine, the trial of Vladimir Putin as a war criminal, and the release of all political prisoners in Russia, the protesters said in a statement. Yashin, in a statement before the demonstration, said demonstrators were using the freedom we have here in Berlin to show the world: A peaceful, free, and civilized Russia exists. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Navalnaya, Yashin and Kara-Murza have all billed Sundays rally as a show of unity at a time when recent rounds of acrimony have roiled the anti-war camp. Russias exiled anti-war opposition has so far largely failed to speak with one voice and present a clear plan of action. The landmark East-West prisoner swap in August freed key dissidents and promised to reinvigorate a movement unmoored by the death in prison of Navalny, a charismatic anti-corruption campaigner and arch-Kremlin foe. Instead, tensions have spiked in recent months, as Navalnys allies and other prominent dissidents swapped accusations that appeared to dash any hopes of a united anti-Kremlin front. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many opposition-minded Russians have voiced deep frustration with the infighting, and with what some view as efforts by rivaling groups to discredit and wrest influence from one another. ___ Associated Press writer Joanna Kozlowska in London contributed to this report. Martin Jaeger, the German ambassador to Ukraine, feels that Russia's most recent attack on Ukraine's infrastructure underlines Russia's unwillingness to negotiate. Source: Martin Jaeger on Twitter (X), as reported by European Pravda Details: Jaeger's post says that by its actions, Russia proves that it chooses escalation. Quote: "This morning, Russia attacked Ukraine's energy system. It is one of the most severe missile attacks since February 2022. President Putin is waging war on the civilian people of Ukraine. Russia chooses escalation over negotiations," Jaeger wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Furthermore, according to German Ambassador to Russia Alexander Graf Lambsdorff, the time for talks with Russia about demilitarised zones or a ceasefire in Ukraine has not yet arrived. Quote: "Now Russia is bombing Ukraine every day, and, unfortunately, we are not at a point where we can discuss it," Lambsdorff said in an interview with newspapers of the Funke media group. "But it is apparent that Europe will play a role in achieving a peaceful resolution. It also concerns security in Europe and Germany. This is a war in Europe, and Europe will help end it and will continue to support Ukraine in this," Lambsdorff stated. The ambassadors' declarations came after a recent phone call from German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to Vladimir Putin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the afternoon of 15 November, it was reported that Scholz had spoken to Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin for the first time in two years. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy labelled the call a "Pandora's box". Jurgen Gardt, an MP from the main opposition force of the CDU/CSU, believes that Putin will consider Scholz's move as "a manifestation of weakness, not strength." At the same time, Matthias Miersch, Secretary General of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD), defended the Chancellors choice. Support UP or become our patron! The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has completed the first trial-firing of a ship-destroying missile viewed as vital to Britains ability to combat Russias navy and air defences. The Spear 3 cruise missile, deployment of which is three years behind schedule, was fired at a tank from beneath the wing of a Typhoon jet at the Vidsel firing range in Sweden. The MoD said that the trial proved successful, paving the way for the next phase of testing of the Spear, which is designed to destroy ground-based air defences so that pilots can fly and fight with a reduced risk of being shot down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The missile, with a range of up to 90 miles, could also be deployed against ballistic missile launchers and other ground installations, as well as armoured or fast-moving vehicles. The Spear 3 will also provide an alternative to a single, heavyweight anti-ship missile in seeking to destroy and disable enemy naval vessels. Ships would be attacked with a swarm of missiles fired from one or two planes, some using fragmentation warheads to damage upper-deck equipment and others fitted out to penetrate the superstructure and hull. The MoD said: This most recent trial was the first time the weapons system had been fired against a target, signifying a major leap forward in the programmes development. However, full operating capability, slated for 2025, is not expected to be achieved until 2028. That leaves Britains F-35 stealth fighters, which are due to use the missile, without a so-called stand-off weapon that can be fired from beyond the range of air defence systems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A report from the Infrastructure and Projects Authority for 2022 to 2023 gave a red rating to Spear 3, indicating that a successful delivery of the project was considered unachievable. The Swedish trial used a telemetry unit instead of a live warhead to track the high-altitude, high-speed launch from a Typhoon operated by BAE Systems, the defence giant. Developed in the UK by MBDA, BAEs venture with Airbus and Italys Leonardo, the Spear 3 is due to be deployed on RAF and Royal Navy F-35s carrying up to eight missiles at a time. That will allow it to strike targets both from the land and the HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales aircraft carriers. The missiles will be held within the weapons bay of the F-35 to avoid compromising the jets radar-defeating profile. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cruising at high subsonic speeds, the six-foot-long missile flies autonomously to its target along customisable routes using GPS and an inertial navigation system. It then maps the area with all-weather radar before homing in using radio-frequency imaging. The Spear programme supports hundreds of jobs among MBDAs 5,500-strong UK workforce, with design undertaken in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, and Bristol and manufacturing in Bolton, Greater Manchester. Earlier developments under Spear which stands for Selective Precession Effects at Range included the Paveway IV guided bomb used in the conflicts in Afghanistan, Libya and Syria and the Brimstone anti-tank missile first deployed in Iraq. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. SPRINGFIELD, Ohio (WDTN) A detour will be in place all week to allow crews time to repair railroad tracks through Springfield. The City of Springfield shared a post to notify residents that North Bechtle Avenue will be closed beginning Monday, Nov. 18. The road will be closed at the rail tracks near Perry Street for repairs. Eight train cars derail in Cincinnati A detour will be in place using US-41. The city asks residents to plan accordingly and follow posted signs along the detour route. The road is expected to reopen Friday, Nov. 22. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The railroad that crosses N. Bechtle Ave. was damaged in August earlier this year when a trail derailed. The road was closed at Perry Street and Snyder Park Road for over 24 hours before being reopened, but additional repairs must be made to the railroad tracks. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. RAMONA, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) A person and two dogs were found dead in a trailer after firefighters extinguished an overnight fire in Ramona, the sheriffs department reports. San Diego County Sheriff Deputies and Cal Fire firefighters were busy battling a fire in a residential trailer in the 18000 block of Cinnamon Rock Road in Ramona that started around 4 a.m. Saturday. Gunfire erupts at National City house party, leaving one dead and four injured Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sheriffs Bomb/Arson investigators called in Homicide Detectives around 7 a.m. after a body and the apparent remains of two dogs were found in the trailer once firefighters had fully put out the fire. The victim has not been identified yet, pending an autopsy. Man killed in deputy-involved shooting The sheriffs department said there is no one in custody at this time, and there is no danger to the public. Homicide and Arson Detectives are now investigating the circumstances of the fire. Motorcyclist injured, passenger paralyzed in San Diego stunt accident The sheriffs department is asking anyone with more information to call the Homicide Unit at 858-285-6330/after hours at 858-868-3200, or you can remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. ASHEBORO, N.C. (WGHP) Oh deer! Its a miracle. A rare, snow-white deer was recently spotted at the North Carolina Zoo, the zoo announced in an Instagram post. The snow-white fawn, who is not on exhibit, was traveling with a wild herd on the property. (North Carolina Zoo) (North Carolina Zoo) (North Carolina Zoo) His white coat is the result of leucism, a condition that causes a partial or complete loss of pigmentation in an animals skin, feathers, hair, scales or cuticles, but not its eyes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As fate would have it, author Nicholas Sparks recently released Counting Miracles, featuring a white deer right here on Purgatory Mountain, where the Zoo is located! the zoo said in the post. The zoo also mentions the significance of the white deer in the traditions and folklore of Native American tribes throughout the state of North Carolina, who consider it sacred and a symbol of spirit. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. WHITEHALL, Ohio (WCMH) A registered sex offender in Licking County is now facing voyeurism and pandering charges involving a minor in Franklin County. According to Whitehall police, Daniel Shope, who was found guilty of sexual battery in 2014, was arrested on accusations of taking inappropriate videos of a girl at a Walmart on Oct. 20. The arrest report said a special duty officer was told of a girl being inappropriately touched at the store. Staff reviewed security footage, and it showed Shope recording children there. When Shope was detained, the officer said the phone was still recording. But Shope denied the accusations and refused to give up his phone without a warrant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim said she noticed Shope approaching her closely, and when she attempted to sidestep him, he reached out with an object in his hand. Video of the encounter showed Shope reportedly slid his hand under the girls skirt while holding the phone. Shope was taken to Franklin County Jail and his phone was seized. The Ohio State Highway Patrols computer crimes unit examined the phone and found about 15 videos shot at the Walmart, including the incident with the girl. On Thursday, a Franklin County Municipal judge issued Shope a $1,000 bond and ordered him to stay away from the store, which is not the first one hes prohibited from visiting. In 2018, he pleaded guilty in Licking County Municipal Court to public indecency and was banned from all Kroger stores for life. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. Former Member of Parliament and senior leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) Subhashini Ali criticized the BJP's alleged strategy of "divisive politics and favoritism towards corporate houses". Speaking at a public event, Ali described the current political narrative as a dangerous departure from the issues that truly matter to the people, such as employment, education, and welfare. "The ruling party's campaign is not about jobs for the youth, better education, or relief for the poor. Instead, it is about spreading fear and hatred against a minority community. Statements like 'They will take your homes, they will take your daughters' are used to instill fear in people's hearts. What kind of politics is this?"Ali questioned. She further pointed out the contradiction in claims about rising infiltration, saying, "If infiltration is happening, it is the central government's responsibility to stop it. The borders are controlled by their own Border Security Force (BSF). If the Home Minister cannot control this, then who can? Such claims are nothing but attempts to divide people and win votes through hate-mongering. This is harmful to our democracy, our nation, and especially the future of the poor," she added. Ali also addressed a recent claim that many Muslim men were marrying Hindu women, supposedly to change the state's demographics. She countered this by saying, "A survey found only two such cases, both over 25 years old. Lies like these are deliberately spread to create fear and hatred. This is not good for the country's unity or progress." Turning her focus to economic policies, Ali accused the ruling party of systematically prioritizing corporate interests over public welfare. She cited examples from Mumbai, where vast public resources and lands are being handed over to large corporations: "Today, airports, electricity distribution, and now hundreds of square meters of Dharavi's prime land, some of the most expensive in the world, are being handed over to one corporate house. Is this governance? How will this benefit the people of Maharashtra or the common man?" Ali added. Ali also criticized the practice of destabilizing elected governments to serve corporate agendas. "The government formed by breaking other governments owes an explanation. Why is it giving away all public resources to a single corporate house? This is not development; it's exploitation." She called on citizens to hold the ruling party accountable for its divisive politics, economic exploitation, and neglect of critical national issues. "This kind of politics is not just undemocratic; it is a threat to the very fabric of our nation," she added further. (ANI) A judge in Niagara County may decide next month whether to grant the release of recorded employee interviews that were part of a sheriffs office investigation into claims of inappropriate behavior and misconduct inside the countys embattled forensics laboratory. Acting Niagara County Supreme Court Justice Mario A. Giacobbe is scheduled on Dec. 19 to hear arguments over the release of the audiotapes, which are now part of an ongoing lawsuit filed by two former lab employees who claim their old boss the sister of one of New Yorks highest-ranking elected officials subjected them to a prolonged pattern of on-the-job harassment. At issue during the hearing will be the status of the interviews with six lab employees who are currently marked Highly Confidential Attorneys Eyes Only Information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a court motion filed Sept. 25, the plaintiffs attorney Christen Civiletto argues the recordings should be released while suggesting they strongly support her clientss concerns about working conditions inside the lab under former director, Dr. Kori Ortt-Gawrys. The motion also characterizes the recordings as potentially important and relevant to the work of New Yorks Forensic Science Commission, a statewide public oversight body that cited the countys lab for serious violations last year. Civiletto also suggests they should have been considered a matter of public interest because they relate to oversight of the lab by its top supervisor, Niagara County Sheriff Micheal Felicetti who secured another term in office on Election Day after running a campaign in which he was unopposed. There can be no doubt that defendants are worried about the content of the tapes they support the allegations in plaintiffs amended complaint and reveal the extent to which wrongdoing and ethical violations occurred at the forensic laboratory, Civilettos motion reads. They reveal the defendants all of them to have acted negligently and recklessly. They will no doubt be embarrassed, particularly in an election year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a follow-up motion sent to the judge on Oct. 23, Civiletto argues for the release of non-redacted versions of the recordings, suggesting the defendants failed to file a motion to seal them within seven days as required by law. In an Oct. 28 letter of response, an attorney for the defendants, Kathleen H. McGraw of Bond, Schoeneck & King in Buffalo, dismisses Civilettos motion as simply a waste of judicial resources, citing the judges decision to set a hearing date on Civilettos prior to motion to request declassification of the recordings. Neither McGraw nor Harvey Sanders, the attorney representing Ortt-Gawrys, responded to requests for comment this week. Sanders previously dismissed the complaints found in the plaintiffs lawsuit as nothing more than conjecture and imagined motives. Filicetti said, in general, he does not comment on active litigation, adding: It is important to note that this case was attempted at the federal level and dismissed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Niagara County Attorney Claude Joerg also declined comment on any specifics of the pending litigation. Joerg confirmed the six employees were interviewed and their statements were recorded as part of an internal investigation into lab activities conducted by the county sheriffs office. As such, Joerg said, they should not be made public. Joerg also stressed that the lawsuit was previously dismissed in federal court, adding that the plaintiffs were offered their jobs back but declined. He also said Civiletto and her clients have already heard and reviewed the contents of the audiotapes. The recordings are marked highly classified because they are a product of an internal personnel investigation in which employees were compelled to give statements. As such, this information should not be made public and we do not understand the plaintiffs desire to do so, Joerg said. DiFonzo is a forensic chemist and former assistant lab director who worked at the lab for more than 20 years before resigning in September 2021. Rogers, who is DiFonzos daughter, served as a civilian firearms expert and forensic chemist in the lab from 2017 until her resignation in August 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They filed their initial lawsuit in 2022 in federal court. A judge dismissed the case as untimely, however, because his ruling was made without prejudice, the plaintiffs were allowed to resubmit their claims in state court. Civiletto filed an amended complaint on behalf of her clients in February. The plaintiffs allege they were subjected to consistent harassment in the workplace by Ortt-Gawrys, the sister of state Senate Minority Leader and former North Tonawanda Mayor, Republican Rob Ortt, during her tenure as director of the county. Ortt-Gawrys held the lab director job from May 2017 until she was placed on administrative leave in November 2021 and later resigned. In their lawsuit, the plaintiffs allege Ortt-Gawrys retaliated against them after they raised concerns about various lab activities, including what they viewed as questionable and unethical training practices. Over the course of about two years, the plaintiffs allege Ortt-Gawyrs directed other employees to spy on them in an attempt to find them doing something wrong, gave them artificial and unreasonable deadlines for work, purposely gave them conflicting instructions, held them to higher standards than other employees, assigned them extra work and texted other employees suggesting DiFonzo and Rogers wanted them fired. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The plaintiffs have also alleged that Ortt-Gawrys intimated lab employees by frequently referencing her brothers position in state government and his close political relationship with Felicetti. Their amended complaint filed in February restates the bulk of their original claims while referencing additional information, including more than 2,000 text exchanges between Ortt-Gawrys and various lab employees that are described as containing demeaning and defamatory statements about DiFonzo and Rogers. According to the amended complaint, most of the texts were sent between Ortt-Gawyrs and three other lab employees. The amended complaint indicates many of those messages were later shared with the plaintiffs. Among the messages sent by Ortt-Gawrys are references to DiFonzo being the ahole and Rogers being the entitled little bitch, the complaint alleges. The plaintiffs also accuse Ortt-Gawrys of frequently telling her colleagues that she was untouchable by virtue of her brothers position and their relationship. According to the amended complaint, Ortt-Gawrys told lab staff that her brother was going to help fund a portion of the police academy and may run for governor, so the administration, including defendants, would do what she wanted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a prior written response to the lawsuit, Sanders, the attorney representing Ortt-Gawyrs, described the plaintiffs complaints as nothing more than a pair of isolated, informal and purely internal disagreements between one employee and his supervisor over work-related matters, which there was clearly no relevant citizen dialogue. Sanders has also denied the assertion that his client used her brothers name or position in state government as a means to intimate lab employees. She got the job on her merits, he said. She didnt take advantage of any political connections or anything like that. In response to a request for comment, Ortts spokesperson Matthew Mosher issued the following statement: Senator Ortt has no involvement in this matter. He has no reason to comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Forensic laboratory personnel are responsible for analyzing evidence collected from crime scenes, suspects and victims. Their work, which often involves DNA, fingerprints, human remains and substances found at crime scenes, plays an important role in criminal prosecutions. The State Forensics Commission is charged, by law, with setting standards for forensics laboratory operations in New York as well as accrediting all forensics laboratories. It has the power to revoke, suspend or otherwise limit the state accreditation of a forensic laboratory if it is determined that the lab or one or more employees failed to follow state procedures and standards. DiFonzo and Rogers filed their initial lawsuit weeks after a meeting of the state Forensics Commission where members asked Niagara County to submit detailed information about the labs operation, including copies of training documents for the previous five years. The commission later notified Felicetti and other county officials that the lab and its staff had been cited with eight violations, including misrepresentation of information, fabricating and backdating training documents and conduct unbecoming of a laboratory. The countys lab continues to operate under the commissions guidance. The New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, a state agency that assists the Forensics Commission with its work, has declined to comment on whether any of the violations are related to claims made by the plaintiffs in their lawsuit, noting that it is commission policy not to comment on pending litigation. With President-elect Donald Trump's vows to radically revise the United States' immigration system during his second term, Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-Texas, said deportations should narrowly focus on convicted criminals. "You know, if we're going after the guy that's picking tomatoes or the nurse at the local hospital and we're not going after the convicted criminal, then our government has failed us," Gonzales told ABC News' Martha Raddatz in an interview on "This Week." Trump has promised a mass deportation operation beginning on "day one" of his second term, saying he would carry out these plans with the help of local law enforcement and the national guard. There are nearly 11 million people in the United States without permanent legal status, according to the Pew Research Institute and the American Immigration Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: What Trump said he would do on Day 1 if reelected ' Amidst these threats, Gonzales said "legal immigration should never be mixed with these hardened criminals." PHOTO: Rep. Tony Gonzalez appears on 'This Week,' Nov. 17, 2024. (ABC News) "Our country was built on those fleeing persecution," he said. "And it would be just absolutely terrible if we don't protect those that are doing it the right way." Gonzales, a Navy veteran, was elected to Congress in 2020. He represents Texas' 23rd Congressional District, which includes the largest swath of border territory of any House district, running 800 miles along Texas' southwestern border with Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After narrowly surviving a primary challenge from the right this year, Gonzales won re-election earlier this month with around 60% of the vote. Trump announced his selection of Tom Homan for "border czar" in his second term. Homan served as the acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement during Trump's first term and has pledged to carry out mass deportations. Last year at the Conservative Political Action Conference, Homan told the crowd he is "sick and tired of hearing about the family separation," which Homan was involved in carrying out. Asked to respond to Homan's rhetoric, Gonzales said, "He doesn't need me defending him" and reiterated that "We have to end the lawlessness." The estimated cost to deport 1 million undocumented immigrants a year is more than $88 billion, according to a report from the American Immigration Council. Gonzales has previously said that the U.S. "does not have the infrastructure" to carry out mass deportations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pressed on the feasibility of Trump's plans, Gonzales responded, "We need to focus on talking about the convicted criminal aliens," and to provide resources for finding them and deporting them. And you do that by making sure that these task forces have the resources they need. You pull local, state and federal resources to go after these criminals, you find them, you deport them. Many of Trump's selections for his second term team have made clear their hardline views on immigration, including his pick for deputy chief of staff, Stephen Miller, who said that "America is for Americans and Americans only" at Trump's Madison Square Garden rally in October. Pressed on Miller's statement, Gonzales responded that "This American first movement is very real, because they feel as if lots of Americans are doing all the things they're supposed to do, and somehow they're in the back of the line." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He called for an end to division and said, "We got to get back to everybody rowing in the same direction." Asked about Trump's appointment of former Rep. Matt Gaetz for attorney general, someone Gonzales once called a "scumbag," the congressman replied that "I want him to do good things for our country" and emphasized the need for unity. Trump's appointment for secretary of defense Pete Hegseth has stirred up controversy with past comments that women should not serve in the military. In response, Gonzales told Raddatz, "I've served with women in combat, they're some of the toughest warriors around." Rep. Tony Gonzales emphasizes the need to focus on criminals for deportations originally appeared on abcnews.go.com NEW YORK (PIX11) Republicans will have control of the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives when President-elect Donald Trump returns to the White House in 2025. Despite this, Democratic U.S. Rep. Ritchie Torres of the Bronx predicts that Democrats will be the most powerful minority in the history of the House of Representatives. Watch the full interview in the video player. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. Outgoing US President Joe Biden has authorized Ukraine to strike Russian territory with long-range US missiles, officials told US media on Sunday, reversing his policy with only two months left in office. The New York Times reported, citing anonymous US government officials, that the ATACMS missile system is now allowed to be used in the western Russian region of Kursk, a portion of which is occupied by Ukrainian forces. The Washington Post said that the authorization is a response to the deployment of thousands of North Korean soldiers in the Kursk region and is aimed at deterring Pyongyang from sending more troops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US Defense Department did not wish to comment on the reports when asked by dpa. Until now, the US has only permitted Kiev to use the weapons it supplies on Russian territory near the embattled Ukrainian border city of Kharkiv. The timing of Biden's decision comes as Donald Trump readies himself to return to the presidency on January 20. His win in the November 5 presidential election cast doubt on whether Washington will continue to offer robust military support for Ukraine's fight against Russian President Vladimir Putin's invading forces. Trump promised during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in September to use his "very good relationship" with Putin to help quickly end the war. Trump has expressed deep scepticism of the NATO military alliance that supports Ukraine, while hard-right Republican supporters have been increasingly opposed to continued aid for Kiev over the past year. WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Republican U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin called on the House of Representatives on Sunday to share an unreleased ethics report into alleged sexual misconduct involving a 17-year-old girl by Matt Gaetz, President-elect Donald Trump's pick for attorney general. Gaetz, 42, resigned his seat in the Republican-controlled House on Wednesday, hours after Trump unveiled his choice of the lawmaker and two days before the House Ethics Committee was expected to release its report, which also looked into allegations of illegal drug use. Gaetz denies any wrongdoing. Mullin told NBC's "Meet the Press" that the Senate, which holds the authority to confirm or deny Trump's nominations to high-level positions, needs to see the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Senate should have access to that," Mullin said. "Should it be released to the public or not? That I guess will be part of the negotiations." Gaetz is one of a number of Cabinet nominees tapped by Trump last week who lack the resumes normally seen in candidates for high-level administration jobs. He would need to be confirmed by the Senate - where Trump's Republicans will have a majority of at least 52 of the 100 seats - to get the post. A handful have expressed skepticism at the choice. Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson on Friday said the ethics committee should not release its report. He stood by that on Sunday. "The speaker does not have the authority to stop the release of a report by the ethics committee, but I've just simply said what I believe is an obvious point, that we don't want to go down that road," Johnson said on CNN. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mullin has previously described Gaetz as unprincipled, and he said on Sunday that "the background of Matt Gaetz does matter." But he said he had not made a decision on whether to vote for or against Gaetz. "I'm going to give him a fair shot just like every individual," Mullin said. The Justice Department investigated Gaetz for nearly three years over sex trafficking allegations involving the teenager. Gaetz's office said in 2023 he had been told by prosecutors he would not face criminal charges. The girl's lawyer on Thursday called for the report to be released to the public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mullin also appeared open to the idea of letting Trump bypass the Senate altogether as an "absolute last resort" if lawmakers somehow couldn't agree. The technique, called a recess appointment, allows the president to short circuit the upper chamber's power to block political nominees. Trump has publicly called for Republican lawmakers to give him that power, a move that would give him extraordinary latitude to appoint whomever he wished. Senate Democrats have expressed widespread opposition to the Gaetz pick. "The Senate has a constitutional role," said Democratic Senator Chris Coons on Fox News Sunday. "It's called our advice and consent role to make sure that a president-elect mostly gets their choice ... but doesn't get to put people in who are unqualified or who lack the requisite character and capabilities to lead an incredibly important agency like the Department of Justice." (Reporting by Raphael Satter, Jasper Ward and Sarah N. Lynch; Editing by Scott Malone, Bill Berkrot, Andrea Ricci and Lincoln Fest.) The vibes have officially shifted. The economy Donald Trump said was broken? All it took was him winning, and consumer sentiment among Republicans soared. Elections? Suddenly Republicans are on board with the reality that theyre secure. House Speaker Mike Johnson said he saw no evidence of fraud in the 2024 campaign. And the media landscape? Viewership of Fox News has surged since Trumps win despite his harsh criticism of the network in the run up to Nov. 5. At the same time, Democrats sentiment of the economy essentially how they view its overall health dropped by 13 percent after Trumps win. And viewership for liberal MSNBC has seen a downturn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a role reversal that, while heady for Republicans now, will quickly come with all the liabilities associated with incumbency. Republicans are betting theyre about to see further economic improvement, lower prices and the immigration crackdown Trump promised on the campaign trail. Democrats, meanwhile, have no more status quo to defend and, like Republicans for the past several years, will be seeking to paint a dark portrait of the opposition party. For four years, Republicans felt as if they were living in an I told you so, and everything that they said around Biden was a reality, whether it was his mental decline or the Biden-Harris policies for the past four years. They felt as if they were right across the board, and that the country was realizing that, said Matthew Bartlett, a GOP strategist and appointee under Trumps first administration. Now Democrats are taking a very similar posture, certainly with a lot of the [Cabinet] picks coming out saying, We told you what he was going to be like. Its typical for the winning party to see a surge of optimism among its ranks. But pollsters saw the mood shift coming this year for another reason, too: Exit polls showed that voters wanted major change this election and it was Trump who was ultimately seen as the change agent, as Vice President Kamala Harris struggled to distinguish herself from the Biden administration and the policies voters blamed for their current pocketbook challenges. The economy is where these divides will be seen the most, and the gap between party sentiments is expected to widen further in the months ahead. Its a trend that began in the final months before election day, when Republican voters were already expressing rosier outlooks as they anticipated a Trump victory, said Micah Roberts, a partner at Public Opinion Strategies who oversaw the economic questions in the bipartisan NBC and CNBC surveys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were going to see Republicans skyrocket to probably the most positive theyve ever been about the future in the current state of the economy, and Democrats will kind of fall back down to some, much less rosy place, Roberts said. Especially when you have this trifecta win, attitudes about the economy are really viewed strongly through a partisan prism. The risk for Republicans is that the honeymoon period wont last forever. With Trump in the White House and GOP control of the House and the Senate, Americans will be looking for a place to cast the blame if they dont see the improvements theyre craving. The best thing Democrats have going for them is that theyre running against Republicans. And the best thing Republicans have going for them is that theyre running against Democrats, Roberts said. Once youre in charge, you cant control everything, and even the things that you can control, parties in power tend to overstep. That divide exists even within the Republican Party. Anti-Trump Republicans, who either voted for Harris or sat out the election altogether, are grappling with whether the more traditionalist, Ronald Reagan strain of the party is even worth fighting for anymore, and many of them have lost an appetite for the resistance-style efforts they launched during Trumps first presidency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think that people who have been opposing Trumpism have viewed this very existentially not from a policy perspective, but from a character perspective, from the hope that we are a better people than this, said Mike Madrid, a co-founder of the anti-Trump Lincoln Project and a longtime GOP strategist. At a certain point, you can compel people to speak to their better angels, but if they don't want to, you're never going to win that fight. We are not a better people. This is who we are. On the Democratic side, members have been so despondent about a second Trump victory and, in particular, Trumps resounding win of the popular vote that the public reaction has been just a sliver of what it was to after his first win in 2016: no massive protests in major liberal cities or on college campuses and no major corporate denunciations of Trump. And theyre feeling even less hopeful than they were eight years ago about the future of the country. Because now it's very clear who he is. Like, We don't care that he's a felon and we don't care that he's a rapist. We don't care that he's corrupt. Whereas before, the jury was a bit out, and now we know. And people are saying like, literally by voting they're saying, Yeah, those things don't matter to me, said Vanessa Wruble, co-founder of the 2017 Womens March. This time around, theres a kind of bewilderment. But if we're feeling bewildered, what it says is there's something essential we're missing. Some Democrats remain hopeful that their party will rebuild and argue that the lack of a public backlash in the immediate aftermath of Trumps election isnt a bad thing as people process the results of the election. Indivisible, which sprung up in the wake of the 2016 election, released a 30-page guide focused on channeling despondency into action during a call this week that was attended by 40,000 people, and it has already signed up 8,000 people to facilitate community organizing meetings across the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre pulling back from stuff that reminds them of 2017 to a certain extent, but theyre very much looking forward to pathways forward, said Leah Greenberg, one of the groups co-founders. People are very sad. Theyre very very sad at what has happened, but they also understood that this was a possibility in a way that nothing prepared people for in 2016. And they understand that we did not have a perfect democracy on Monday, and we did not have a perfect democracy on Wednesday. They understand this is a longer term fight. Indivisible, MoveOn, the Working Families Party and other progressive groups also hosted a post-election organizing call that was attended by more than 100,000 people. Swing Left, another organization that was birthed after Trumps 2016 election, is hosting a grassroots organizing call next week to map out its road ahead. And Womens March, under new leadership, is planning marches in Washington and across the country for Jan. 18, two days before the inauguration, with about 75,000 people already signed up to attend. After a global pandemic, multiple election cycles, and the disastrous Dobbs decision, we are in a completely new era of American politics. Trying to equate the response to Trump's win in 2016 versus now is an apples-to-oranges comparison, said Rachel O'Leary Carmona, the executive director of Women's March. Womens March is one of many large organizations convening a People's March in January to demonstrate our power and continue to build a broad popular front of resistance. But Wruble, who left the organization amid infighting, wont be there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reached Thursday evening, she was sitting with multiple parrots, hairless guinea pigs and a zebra at the animal and art sanctuary she founded. Shes sitting things out after years of divisions among progressive organizations that she said distracted from prioritizing the real threat. Maybe my story is an example of something that went wrong, Wruble said. Grist The worlds governments have come to the United Nations climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, deadlocked on one ugly question. Its been debated for years, but now they need to find an answer in a matter of weeks; trillions of dollars worth of international climate aid hang in the balance. This money could mean the difference between life and death for some of the worlds poorest and most vulnerable people on the front lines of the climate crisis. Everyone at the COP29 climate summit agrees that the worlds poorest and most climate-vulnerable countries need trillions of dollars to transition to clean energy and cope with climate-fueled disasters. And everyone agrees that rich countries, which are responsible for a disproportionate share of historic carbon pollution, have some responsibility to pay up for this. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the question nobody can seem to agree on is this: Which countries are rich? As financial needs balloon, longtime wealthy nations in North America and Europe are clashing with newer global power players like China and Saudi Arabia over whether nations like the latter should be required to provide aid funding. The U.S. and the European Union are pushing for a strict standard that would commit large new economies like China to donating, reflecting how much richer those countries have gotten in recent decades, but a broad coalition of developing countries is fighting to keep such language out of the deal. World leaders spent the first few days of COP29 making dozens of grand speeches in which they stressed the need for ambitious action and global cooperation. But now negotiators are diving into tense, complex talks over the funding question, with the goal of coming to an agreement by the time COP29 wraps up at the end of next week. As of Friday, they were still working through a sprawling 33-page document that the U.N. negotiating leads assembled, which contains a mishmash of priorities from almost every country in the world. Multiple country representatives and advocates present at COP told Grist that these talks have been the most difficult since those that led to the landmark 2015 Paris Agreement, in which the world agreed to limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius. Theres no contention about the magnitude of the amounts required for the global community to transition, said Ali Mohamed, the lead climate envoy for Kenya and head negotiator for a large group of African countries. I think the big challenge is the attempt to redefine the commitments, he added, referring to attempts by developed countries like the U.S. to offload some of their financing burden onto newly rich countries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The battle lines were drawn more than three decades ago, in the 1992 agreement that first established COP as the forum for annual U.N. climate talks. That agreement divided the worlds countries into developed country parties and developing country parties. It stipulated that the former would provide new and additional financial resources to help poor countries decarbonize and also assist in meeting costs of adaptation to climate change. The developed group comprised the richest few dozen countries in North America and Europe, as well as Japan and Australia, and the developing group comprised almost the entire rest of the planet. The world has changed a great deal since then. China and India have become two of the worlds five largest economies and together make up almost a third of the worlds population. East Asian countries like Singapore and South Korea have become pillars of the global technology and manufacturing sectors and grown phenomenally richer in the process. Persian Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have used money from their massive oil fields to build some of the worlds most eye-popping infrastructure and buy global influence. As a result of all this change, only 13 of the worlds 20 largest economies were considered developed at the time the U.N. convention first took effect. For incumbent developed countries like the United States and Canada, which are facing calls to commit to sending a trillion dollars per year to poor nations, the key question in Baku is how to bring newly flush economies over to the donor side of the table. While many of the newcomers have already made voluntary contributions to international climate aid China kicked off the conference by announcing it has provided more than $20 billion in climate finance to developing countries since 2016 they have largely resisted any official recognition that they have a responsibility to contribute. You have countries now that are not part of the donor base, but that are contributing and helping countries in the [Global South], said Steven Guilbeault, the Canadian minister for the environment, in an interview with Grist. But I think one of the issues there is: What are the accountability mechanisms for that? Whats the transparency? (Chinas announcement didnt include a detailed breakdown of its commitments.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an addendum tacked on to the bottom of the most recent negotiating text, the Canadian and Swiss governments have proposed a blunt solution to this problem: a hard numerical standard that would determine which countries have to donate funds. There are two triggers that would make a country a required donor. The first is if the country is both among the top 10 annual emitters of greenhouse gases and has a gross national income of more than around $22,000 per capita, adjusted for purchasing power differences across currencies. The second is if a nation has cumulative carbon emissions of more than 250 metric tons per capita and a gross national income of more than $40,000per capita. This sounds somewhat arbitrary until you look at which countries become donors under each of the proposed standards. Among the top 10 annual greenhouse gas emitters, six are not already considered developed. In descending order of per capita income, according to the World Bank, they are Saudi Arabia, South Korea, China, Iran, Indonesia, and India. The income threshold in the Swiss-Canadian proposal would bump the first two from that list into the group of required donors. And while China is right below the income threshold, it could qualify as soon as next year. The last three countries, which are populous but less well-off, would be off the hook for the near future. That captures the big fish. The second condition, which assesses income and emissions on a per capita basis, would rope in smaller developed countries with higher income levels, such as the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and Israel. (The Swiss delegation did not respond to questions about their proposal in time for publication.) But negotiators from around the world are lining up against this proposal, and many say they oppose any attempts whatsoever to broaden the donor base. The Persian Gulf states in particular have slammed the formula as a betrayal of responsibility by the United States and Europe, which are the largest emitters in historical terms meaning their cumulative contributions to climate change are greater than even annual emissions figures suggest. The objectors also argue that these countries centuries-long head start on development, provided in part by their colonial history, should be a determining factor in who has to pay up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement at the last government dialogue on the goal, a few months before COP29, a representative for Saudi Arabia said that Arab states firmly reject what it called attempts to walk back on our collective agreement. The claim that changing economic realities necessitate an expansion of the donor base is unfounded, the representative said at the time. The Alliance of Small Island States, or AOSIS, an influential negotiating bloc that represents several nations facing existential risk from sea level rise, like the Marshall Islands, is also against the proposal. The group argues that such a change would compromise the original U.N. agreement to fight climate change, which called for legacy emitters to take the lead on climate finance. We really cant entertain it, said Michai Robertson, the island blocs lead negotiator on finance issues. Its a thread that you pull, and it may unravel the entire fabric of the Paris Agreement. Its an unequivocal no. He said that the text that all countries agreed to in Paris in 2015 already encourages developing countries to contribute financing if they can and that countries such as China are already doing it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are also political considerations at play in the blocs opposition. In addition to vulnerable nations such as Fiji and the Marshall Islands, AOSIS also represents higher-income island states such as Singapore and the Bahamas. The latter would be expected to become contributors under the new proposal, which evaluates national income and emissions on a per capita basis. The other big point of controversy is China, whose per capita income sits just on the threshold of the Swiss and Canadian proposals. One version of the Swiss-Canadian proposal sets the income cutoff at $20,000 per capita, which would include China, but another version sets it at $22,000, which would exclude China for at least a few years an indication of just how delicate the question of the countrys inclusion might be. The opening day of COP29 saw negotiators stake out starkly different positions on the China question. Teresa Anderson, a climate advocate with the global anti-poverty organization ActionAid, said, There is no metric by which China has a historic obligation, calling it geopolitical whataboutery and finger-pointing. A few hours later, Germanys lead climate negotiator, Jennifer Morgan, pointed out that Chinas historical carbon emissions are now equal to those of the European Union. The stark contrast in statements was evidence that, even after years of negotiation over the finance goal, the opposing sides of the debate have made almost no movement toward each other. The stalemate continued through the first days of the conference as developing countries rejected an early draft of the goal text, and U.N. supervisors released a massive new draft with a grab bag of priorities. Despite developing countries objections, the Swiss-Canadian proposal is still there, lurking at the bottom of the draft. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sandra Guzman Luna, a former climate negotiator for the government of Mexico and the director of GFLAC, an organization that helps Latin American and Caribbean countries advocate for more climate money, said the road ahead was steep. Its going to be very, very challenging, because there has not been a lot of movement, she said. Rollin Smoke BBQ cooks 80 turkeys for Salvation Armys Thanksgiving meal EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) Rollin Smoke BBQ is assisting the Salvation Army of El Paso by smoking 80 turkeys that will be used to feed the less fortunate on Thanksgiving. The well-known Anthony, Texas, barbecue joint will be smoking turkeys from 1 to 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 17 at 200 S. Main St. in Anthony. The turkeys will be served during the Salvation Armys community meal on Nov. 28 at the Red Shield Family Center located at 4300 E Paisano Drive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the news release by the Salvation Army, Rollin Smoke BBQ is preparing and cooking 80 turkeys to feed over 1,000 people during Salvation Armys annual community meal. Once the turkeys are smoked, they will be transported back to The Salvation Army, where volunteers will shred the meat and place it in trays to be frozen until Thanksgiving Day. When I heard about the need, I knew I wanted to help, Jesus Carrasco, owner of Rollin Smoke BBQ, said. Our smoker can handle upwards of 120 turkeys at once, so were happy to lend a hand and make sure each turkey is perfectly prepared. Since the pandemic, rising food costs have increased food insecurity across the country. In El Paso, The Salvation Army has seen a growing need, providing more Thanksgiving meals each year as more people struggle to afford basic groceries, let alone a special holiday feast, The Salvation Army said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People needing a meal on Thanksgiving can pick up a free ticket at The Salvation Army front desk, located at 4300 E Paisano Dr., before Thanksgiving Day to receive your plate. Salvation Army of El Paso to provide free Thanksgiving meals The Salvation Army is also calling on the public to donate frozen or fresh turkeys to help ensure that everyone in our community can enjoy a warm Thanksgiving meal during this special season of gratitude. For more information about The Salvation Army, you can call (915) 544-9811 or visit their website here. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. Judge Laura Polizzi knocked on doors. Her opponent knocked Polizzi. Knocked, actually, is far too tame a word for her opponents approach. By the usually decorous standards of a race for a district court judgeship, he went nuclear. I bring this up because I brought it up four weeks ago, agape at the toxic campaign flyer the opponent mailed to households across the 11 Oakland County municipalities that depend on 52-3 District Court in Rochester Hills. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Having been publicly appalled, I figured I should circle back with the result of the election. Polizzi won with, what, 60% of the vote? It was 64.9, she said, but whos counting? Laura Polizzi earlier this month ran to keep her seat as a district court judge in Rochester Hills. She won against challenger Ryan Deel. For Polizzi, it was her first campaign since a friend added her to his ticket as student body vice-president when he was running for the top spot at Oakland University. She didnt pay much attention, but since she never held office, shes pretty sure they lost. This time around, she said, Id do my day job as a judge. Then after 4:30, never before, I would go knock on doors. Her opponent may have done the same thing. I didnt ask him. What he definitely did was send out that mailer, and get pummeled for it by not only me but a swarm of his fellow attorneys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was so chastened by the experience that the week before the election, he sent another mailer, almost as barbed. But heres another reason Im bringing it up again: Ryan Deel, with his 35.1% of the vote, says hes sorry and hed feel that way even if hed won. The relativity of civility Its a strange time for politics and civility to be mentioned in the same sentence. Love him or otherwise, the president-elect of the United States mostly communicates in schoolyard insults and mean tweets. And calls for grace and decorum typically come from people who already hold power, meaning theyre better off if everyone else keeps their voices down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But district courts are the starter kit for the judicial system, handling things like traffic violations, landlord-tenant squabbles, low-stakes lawsuits and misdemeanor criminal cases. Theyre where nervous amateurs need to be confident in the system and the competence of the people in it. So the standard bombast, exaggeration and borderline slander of a major political campaign is traditionally understood to be out of place. Without getting into excessive detail, Deel opted to attack Polizzis competence based on the low ranking of the law school she attended, claimed she doesnt know the area shes never lived more than 10 minutes from, said she doesnt care about that community in the first place, and contended she was only appointed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to fill an open seat because they share a political party. In point of fact, Polizzi said, her political persuasion never came up in a lengthy vetting process that started with letters of endorsement and details about cases she had worked on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As her application progressed, she said, staffers from the governors office were dialing judges and former opposing counsel: How did she present herself in court? Was she prepared? Was she rude? Maybe three of two dozen original applicants were ultimately interviewed, and it was Polizzi who won the right to have attack ads show up in her mailbox in Rochester Hills. For which, again, Deel apologizes. Ryan Deel, a candidate for judge in district court in Rochester Hills, in the November 2024 Election. I have a great number of colleagues whose feelings were hurt by the campaign pieces, he told me. I dont like what happened there. A future certainty What happened, in short, was that a throng of fellow lawyers blistered him. It speaks well for the profession that they did, and well for him that he paid attention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not representative of who I am, said Deel, who among other things is the president of the Rochester Hills City Council. Its not how I conduct myself, not how I operate in my daily life. He has not apologized to Polizzi, exactly, but said she is included among the colleagues hes referring to. He did email his congratulations after the 85,173 votes were counted, noting that placing yourself before your neighbors and community for their scrutiny and approval is one of the most difficult things one can do. Hell never know, he said, whether the mailers helped or hurt on Election Day. Polizzi said a few people whod read them were snippy: You were appointed by Whitmer! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Others were sympathetic. As she stood outside a polling place all day on Nov. 5, fueled by a Jimmy Johns vegetarian sandwich dropped off by a friend, a woman told her, I saw your opponents mailer, so I would never vote for him. Having taken over for a retiree, Polizzi will serve through 2026. She already loves her job, she said, and her plan is to run then for a full six-year term. Deel said its far too soon to know what hell be doing in two years. Polizzi cant fully predict the future, but she knows this: Shell be knocking on doors. Reach Neal Rubin at NARubin@freepress.com. Submit a letter to the editor at freep.com/letters and we may publish it online and in print. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Oakland County judicial race loser apologizes for ugly campaign Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai will hold a meeting with the Heads of Departments of all concerned departments on Monday for the effective implementation of the GRAP IV, his office said in a statement on Sunday. The meeting will be held at the Delhi Secretariat on Monday afternoon. "For effective implementation of GRAP-IV in Delhi, Environment Minister Gopal Rai will hold a meeting with HoDs of all concerned departments tomorrow at 12 noon at Delhi Secretariat," said the Delhi Environment Minister's Office. Meanwhile, In response to worsening air quality in Delhi-NCR, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has decided to activate Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) from Monday. Delhi's daily average Air Quality Index (AQI) rose sharply to 441 by 4 PM on Sunday, and further escalated to 457 by 7 PM, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This severe spike prompted an emergency meeting of the GRAP Sub-Committee. "Keeping in view the prevailing trend of deteriorating air quality of NCR, and in an effort to prevent further deterioration of air quality in the region, the Sub-Committee today has taken the call to invoke all actions as envisaged under Stage-IV of GRAP - 'Severe+' Air Quality (Delhi's AQI > 450), w.e.f. 08:00 AM of 18.11.2024 (tomorrow) in the entire NCR," the CAQM said in a statement. This is in addition to the preventive/ restrictive actions mentioned under Stage I, Stage II and Stage III of GRAP already in force. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for the National Capital Region (NCR) is classified under four different stages of adverse air quality in Delhi: Stage I -- 'poor' (AQI 201-300); Stage II -- 'very poor' (AQI 301-400); Stage III -- 'severe' (AQI 401-450); and Stage IV -- 'severe plus' (AQI >450). The Stage-IV response encompasses an 8-point action plan designed to mitigate the pollution crisis. Key measures include banning the entry of non-essential truck traffic into Delhi, except for trucks carrying essential commodities or providing essential services. LNG/CNG/electric and BS-VI diesel trucks will still be permitted. Light commercial vehicles (LCVs) registered outside Delhi will also be restricted from entering, except those powered by electric, CNG, or BS-VI diesel engines. Delhi-registered BS-IV and below diesel-operated medium and heavy goods vehicles will be prohibited from operating, except for those carrying essential services. The Sub-Committee has also extended the ban on construction and demolition activities to include public infrastructure projects like highways, roads, flyovers, and power transmission lines. State governments and the Government of Delhi (GNCTD) have been advised to consider shifting physical classes for students in grades VI-IX and XI to online mode and to limit office attendance to 50%, with the rest working from home. A similar work-from-home arrangement may be considered for central government employees. Additionally, state governments have been urged to consider emergency measures such as closing colleges and non-essential commercial activities and implementing an odd-even vehicle policy to reduce pollution. The CAQM has called on citizens to cooperate with these measures and stay indoors as much as possible, especially vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. The CAQM emphasized that it is closely monitoring the air quality and will review the situation regularly to assess further action. (ANI) Russian forces launched a large-scale attack on Ukraine's energy sector on 17 November, severely damaging equipment at thermal power plants belonging to DTEK, Ukraines largest private energy company. Source: press service for DTEK Details: "The strikes severely damaged the equipment of the plants. After the attack ended, employees of the plants promptly began to deal with the aftermath and resume the operation of the equipment," the press service said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Early reports indicate no casualties, the press service added. The firm noted that this is the eighth large-scale attack on its energy facilities this year. Russian forces have attacked DTEK's thermal power plants over 190 times since the start of the full-scale invasion. Background: Emergency power cuts have been introduced in Kyiv, Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk oblasts and in the city of Kyiv. On the morning of 17 November, Russian forces launched a large-scale missile attack on the Ukrainian energy sector. Support UP or become our patron! KYIV, Ukraine (AP) When Russian tanks rolled into Ukraine in February 2022, the conventional wisdom was that the capital, Kyiv, would soon fall and the rest of the country wouldnt last long against a much larger enemy. Instead, it was that narrative that quickly collapsed. The Ukrainian army proved it could slow the advance of Russias forces and, if not drive them out completely, then with enough support from the West at least forestall defeat. But nearly three years later, the outlook is again grim. Russia is expending huge amounts of weaponry and human life to make small-but-steady territorial gains to the nearly one-fifth of Ukraine it already controls. Ukraine, meanwhile, is struggling to minimize losses, maintain morale and convince allies that, with more military aid, it can turn the tide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As this brutal war of attrition grinds toward its 1,000th day, neither side seems eager to negotiate. President-elect Donald Trump has said he could quickly end the war, though it is unclear how or in whose favor he might tip the scales. This backdrop appears to be driving Russias strategy in eastern Ukraine, according to Phillips OBrien, a professor of strategic studies at the University of St. Andrews, Scotland. Trump could try to force an end to the war by halting the supply of weapons to Ukraine, he said. If Trump cuts aid to Ukraine and a cease-fire leads to a frozen conflict, Russia wants to secure as much territory as it can now, OBrien said. For Ukraine, the key to any cease-fire would be guarantees from the West that it won't allow Russia to re-invade in the future. Otherwise, O'Brien said, a cease-fire is a recipe for constant instability in Europe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia is advancing slowly but steadily in eastern Ukraine In the war's first year, Ukraine lost huge amounts of territory but it also achieved notable victories. It resisted a much larger adversary with superior air power to survive as an independent country, and it reclaimed some land through gutsy counteroffensives, giving the underdog and its wealthy allies the confidence to stay in the fight. In the second year, which was punctuated by Ukraine's devastating loss of Bakhmut and its failed counteroffensive, the armies essentially fought to a standstill along a 1,000 kilometer (620 mile) front line. Toward the end of that year, the U.S. Congress delayed the approval of a $61 billion package of aid for weapons, and economic and humanitarian assistance. With Ukraine's ammunition dwindling, its outlook deteriorated significantly as the wars third year began. In February 2024, the town of Avdiivka fell after months of airstrikes by Russia, which used highly destructive Soviet-era bombs retrofitted with navigation systems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fall of Avdiivka created a major breach in Ukraines defenses. When Russia later mounted an assault on the northeastern city of Kharkiv, Ukrainian troops were stretched further. A bright spot for Ukraine came in August, when it launched a surprise incursion into Russia. It took and still holds hundreds of square kilometers in the Kursk region. While this could be an important chip in any cease-fire negotiations, it hasn't stopped Russian forces from taking more land in Ukraine's east. The Russians have paid a very high price to keep advancing, but theyre willing to pay that price in lives to gain a few more meters of territory each day, said Justin Crump, head of the British strategic advisory firm Sibylline. Tens of thousands of soldiers from both countries have been killed since the start of the war in 2022, according to estimates, and the U.N. says at least 11,700 Ukrainian civilians have been killed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the amount of land Russia has gained in 2024 about 2,455 square kilometers (948 square miles) is equal to less than 1% of Ukraines pre-war territory, it is having a psychological impact. With Ukraine in retreat, weve now returned to a period reminiscent of the (war's) first months, said Mykola Bielieskov, an analyst at CBA Initiatives Center in Kyiv. This strengthens Russias position not so much militarily, but in terms of morale. A war of attrition requires both sides to seek outside resources To keep its war machine going, Russia like Ukraine has turned to allies for help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Iran supplies Russia with drones and possibly missiles, and North Korea has sent ammunition and even troops, who have been deployed to Russia's Kursk region. Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed this year that 700,000 of his troops are fighting in Ukraine. Analysts say Putin would need a much larger force to accelerate Russias advance, but that he is unlikely to mobilize more troops because it could stoke internal discontent. Ukraines foothold in Kursk is another complicating factor for Putin, and it could be used as a bargaining chip in any future cease-fire negotiations. Captain Yevhen Karas, a Ukrainian commander in Kursk, said the fighting inside Russia is highly dynamic, but he believes it will prove effective in diverting Russia's attention and resources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even a creeping, retreating front exhausts the enemy significantly, Karas said. Ukraine has asked the West for longer range missiles and its blessing to fire at air bases deep inside Russia. But its allies have so far resisted, wary of escalating tensions with a nuclear-armed Russia. The U.S. has provided more than $64 billion in military aid to Ukraine since the war began 1,000 days ago. Soldiers worry about what would happen without sustained American support. Bravery, heroism, and spirit alone are not enough, said a Ukrainian soldier in the eastern Donetsk region who spoke on condition of anonymity, in line with military rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The soldier estimated that where he is stationed Russian infantry outnumber Ukrainian troops 10 to 1. As the war drags on and the death toll rises, it has become increasingly difficult for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to keep replacing troops. The US will play a vital role in determining the war's next direction What direction the war takes next will depend in large part on how the incoming Trump administration plays its hand. Trump, who has touted his good relationship with President Vladimir Putin and called the Russian leader pretty smart for invading Ukraine, has repeatedly criticized American backing of Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his only campaign debate with Vice President Kamala Harris, Trump twice refused to directly answer a question about whether he wanted Ukraine to win raising concerns that Kyiv could be forced to accept unfavorable terms in any negotiations. Without security guarantees from the West, Ukraine could find itself vulnerable to future Russian aggression. Analysts say a cease-fire based on the current state of the battlefield would set a dangerous precedent, implying that Europe's borders are up for grabs through military action something that hasnt happened since World War II. This would also have a lot of traction in countries like China, India, and elsewhere, said Richard Connolly, a Russia expert at the Royal United Services Institute in London. They could present that as a strategic defeat not only for Ukraine, but also for the West. As another winter of war approaches, Ukrainian soldiers say they remain resolute. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are standing strong, giving it our all, and we wont surrender, said a battalion chief of staff in the southern region of Zaporizhzhia. The most important thing now is not to lose more land. ___ Associated Press journalist Volodymyr Yurchuk contributed to this report. Russia launched its largest aerial attack on Ukraine in months, hitting energy infrastructure across the country, killing at least five people and causing widespread damage. Strikes were reported in several major cities, from Odesa in the south, Dnipro in the east to Rivne in the west. In the capital Kyiv, which has seen near-daily strikes since the start of September, residents were forced to shelter in the metro network. Two people were killed in a drone strike in the Mykolaiv region, while six others including two children were injured. A further two were killed in Odesa in an attack which also injured a 17-year-old boy, and a woman was killed in her car in Lviv region, the governor said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The last comparable attack happened on August 28, when Russia launched 127 missiles and 109 attack drones at Ukraine, the Ukrainian Air Force said. The overnight strikes triggered blackouts in several regions, including Odesa where heating, water and electricity supplies have been cut and hospitals are running on power from generators. Kyiv residents take shelter in the city's subway during a massive missile and drone attack on the city. - undefinedSvitlana Vlasova/CNN Ukrainian energy company DTEK said its thermal power plants were attacked and equipment was severely damaged. The war - now nearing its third year - has reached a critical point for Ukraine, with Russia making gains across the frontlines and Donald Trump retaking the White House, which could mean the end to vital US support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraines energy supplies have been repeatedly targeted by Russian attacks since its full-scale invasion in February 2022, causing rolling blackouts. Bombardments have intensified in recent months, leaving the country in a precarious position as the war grinds into its third winter. This is war criminal Putins true response to all those who called and visited him recently. We need peace through strength, not appeasement, Foreign Minister Andrii Sibyha wrote on X. Sibyha was likely referencing Russian leader Vladimir Putins recent phone call with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, which lasted an hour and was a rare high-level call between a western leader and Putin, who has been isolated by his invasion of Ukraine. Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky said approximately 120 missiles and 90 drones were launched overnight in the Russian attack. Ukraines defense forces destroyed over 140 aerial targets, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All parts of Ukaine have been targeted, including the western regions, he said. The enemys target was our energy infrastructure across Ukraine. Unfortunately, some facilities sustained damage from direct hits and falling debris, Zelensky said Sunday morning. The Ukrainian leader added that some areas remain without power, which authorities are working to restore. In a post on X later on Sunday, Zelensky stressed that Russian terrorists are once again trying to intimidate us with cold and blackouts, repeating their actions and trying to get results from them. The Russian Ministry of Defense acknowledged the attack in a statement on Telegram Sunday, saying that Russia launched a massive strike with high-precision long-range air and sea-based weapons and strike drones targeting critical energy infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Germanys Scholz on Sunday defended his phone call with the Russian leader. Speaking to reporters, the chancellor described the call as important and very detailed, although he noted that little has changed in the Russian Presidents views of the war - and thats not good news. He said that it would not be good if a US administration was in regular contact with Putin while no European leader was, referencing Donald Trumps imminent return to the White House. The attack overnight comes as Russia is making gains at key spots along the frontlines of eastern and southeastern Ukraine, moving closer to key hubs like the city of Kurakhove. Russia claimed Saturday it captured two more eastern settlements in the Donetsk region, although there was no confirmation from Ukraine. At the same time, Moscow is preparing to launch a counteroffensive in the southern Russian region of Kursk, the site of Kyivs only major military success this year. CNNs Ivana Kottasova contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Russia launched a "massive" overnight attack on Ukraine, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. The attack involved around 120 missiles and 90 drones, he added. Ukraine's air force said the country's air defenses took out more than 140 aerial targets. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia launched a "massive combined attack" on Ukraine overnight, targeting energy infrastructure across the country. Writing on X, Zelenskyy said that Russia fired around 120 missiles and 90 drones at Ukraine from Saturday night to Sunday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Unfortunately, some facilities sustained damage from direct hits and falling debris," he wrote, adding that some areas had lost power. The Ukrainian air force said that Russia carried out the attack using Tu-160, Tu-95MS, and Tu-22M3 strategic bombers, as well as fighter jets and other aircraft. It said the missiles fired in the attack included Kalibr cruise missiles, Kinzhal ballistic missiles, and a Zircon hypersonic missile, among others. More than 140 aerial targets were taken out by Ukraine's air defenses overnight, the air force said. While the final death toll is unclear, Zelenskyy said two people were killed and six were injured in a drone attack on Mykolaiv, southern Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rate of Russian missile attacks on Ukraine has seen some significant monthly fluctuations since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. In August, Russia fired 1,110 missiles at Ukraine, but that figure dropped to 12 in September, according to a recent study by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a Washington-based think tank. The report said that Russia fired a daily average of 23.2 missiles at Ukraine from September 28, 2022, to September 1, 2024, suggesting "a high level of sustained military capability in Moscow and logistical support from countries like Iran, North Korea, and China." Representatives for the Kremlin and the Armed Forces of Ukraine did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider, which was sent outside of regular business hours. Read the original article on Business Insider On Sunday, Russia launched a drone and missile attack on Ukraine in whats being seen as the largest barrage in recent months, officials said. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky posted on the social platform X that Russia used nearly 140 missiles of various types over the last week, as well as more than 900 guided aerial bombs and more than 600 strike drones. Zelensky said Russia was attacking its infrastructure in Rivne, Lviv, Dnipropetrovsk, Volyn and Odesa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia terrorists are once again trying to intimidate us with cold and blackouts, repeating their actions and trying to get results from them, he wrote. The attack came as Russia continues its attacks on Ukraines power generation and energy infrastructure ahead of the winter. Ukrainian defenses shot down 144 out of the 210 air targets. Zelensky said a drone attack killed two people and injured six others, including two children. Two more were killed in the Odesa region, The Associated Press reported. The entire world sees and knows that we are defending ourselves against absolute evil, which understands no language but force, Zelensky wrote. We need unity the world needs unity. Only together can we stop this evil. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The war in the region is nearing the three-year mark. Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, and while Zelensky pushes for cease-fire negotiations, the outlook is grim. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Editor's note: This is a developing story and is being updated. Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone attack on Ukraine overnight on Nov. 17, leaving at least seven civilians dead and at least 19 injured across multiple regions. Multiple loud explosions were reported in the capital, Kyiv, between 6:30 and 7:15 a.m. local time, according to a Kyiv Independent journalist on the ground. Russia's latest barrage of missile strikes marks the first mass missile attack on Kyiv in over 2 months, with Russia instead utilizing more frequent drone strikes in recent months to attack the capital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Further explosions were also heard in the cities of Kropyvnytskyi, Rivne, Ivano-Frankivsk, Cherkasy, Dnipro, Vinnytsia, Kryvyi Rih, Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, as well as in the Khmelnytskyi and Volyn oblasts. Russia targeted "power generation and transmission facilities throughout Ukraine," according to Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko. "The transmission system operator has urgently introduced emergency shutdowns," Halushchenko said. Officials have been warning that Russia may resume strikes on the energy grid as temperatures drop, mirroring the strategy used in the spring and summer of this year and in the autumn-winter season of 2022-2023. Kyiv Mayor Vitalii Klitschko said that as a result of falling drone debris, an apartment on the fourth floor of a five-story residential building caught fire in the Pechersk neighborhood of the city. One person was hospitalized as a result of the attack, while one other person received medical treatment on-site. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Debris was also reported in the Holosiivskyi and Dniprovskyi districts of the capital, according to the Kyiv City Military Administration. Several residential and commercial buildings, a club building, and a library were damaged in the capital. A 45-year-old woman was injured in Kyiv Oblast, suffering a head wound, Governor Ruslan Kravchenko reported. Fallen debris damaged industrial facilities, 21 houses, and other buildings across the region. In addition to the attack on Kyiv, at least two people were killed and seven injured, including two children, in the city of Mykolaiv amid Russias mass drone and missile attack, regional governor Vitalii Kim reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the city of Dnipro, a 42-year-old man suffered shrapnel wounds as a result of the attack. High-rise buildings, an educational institution, and a car were damaged, Governor Serhii Lysak reported. Russia also struck a railway depot in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, killing two railway workers and injuring three, Ukrainian Railways (Ukrzaliznytsia) said on its Telegram channel. It is not immediately clear whether the number of injured includes the 42-year-old man reported previously by the governor. Read also: 2 killed, 6 injured in Mykolaiv amid Russias mass missile and drone attack Critical infrastructure facilities were hit in the Vinnytsia, Odesa, and Volyn oblasts, leading to power outages and emergency shutdowns, regional authorities said. Odesa also faced problems with the water supply. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Infrastructure facilities were also targeted in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Two people were reported injured in the regional center, the city of Zaporizhzhia. A 59-year-old man was hospitalized, and an 18-year-old man received medical assistance on the spot, Governor Ivan Fedorov said. In Lviv Oblast, 12 garages caught fire due to fallen missile debris. A 66-year-old woman was killed in her car by the debris in the Sheptytskyi (formerly Chervonohrad) district, Governor Maksym Kozytskyi reported. Two more people were injured. Two people were killed, and a 17-year-old boy was injured in Odesa Oblast, Governor Oleh Kiper reported. One civilian was reportedly hospitalized with serious injuries in Poltava Oblast. An outbuilding and a house were damaged in Zhytomyr Oblast. Regional authorities also reported that a critical infrastructure site was damaged in Rivne Oblast, and a house was damaged by fallen debris in Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Cruise, ballistic, and air-launched ballistic missiles, Zirkons, Iskanders, Kinzhals. In total, around 120 missiles and 90 drones (were launched by Russia)," President Volodymyr Zelensky said following the attack. This makes it one of the most massive strikes launched at Ukraine throughout the full-scale war. "Our air defenses destroyed more than 140 aerial targets... We are grateful to our air defense forces involved in the attack, our aviation F-16, Sukhoi, and MiG pilots mobile fire groups, electronic warfare units, everybody worked in an organized manner," Zelensky said. In response to the mass attack, the Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces scrambled fighter jets to protect the country's own airspace. "Ground-based air defense and radar reconnaissance systems have reached the highest state of readiness," the Operational Command added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine's Air Force issued air raid alerts across all regions of the country around 6 a.m. local time, warning of the attack. The alert ended in much of Ukraine at around 9:30 a.m. Ukraine's Air Force reported earlier in the night that Tu-95 strategic bombers took off from the Russian airfields of Olenya in Murmansk Oblast. Later in the night, the War Monitor Telegram channel reported that a total of 17 Tu-95 strategic bombers were in flight, with seven taking off at the Engels airbase in Saratov Oblast. In recent months, Russia has primarily focused on large-scale drone attacks to overwhelm Ukrainian air defenses in cities across the country. The Ukrainian Air Force previously said that Russia launched at least 4,300 Shahed-type attack drones and similar UAVs imitating Shaheds against Ukraine between August and October 2024. While missile attacks are a common occurrence in Ukraine's eastern oblasts, most Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, have largely been spared from large-scale Russian missile attacks on infrastructure in recent months with the last large-scale missile attack occurring in late August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: As drone strikes surge, Russias next mass missile attack on Kyiv likely imminent, experts and weary residents say Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Russian opposition media outlet Mediazona has reported that the Russian Central Bank has recently approved a substantial increase in loan deferments (credit holidays) for the Russian military, suggesting a potential rise in conscriptions to the Russian Armed Forces. Source: The Institute for the Study of War (ISW); Mediazona Details: Mediazona, citing data from Russia's Central Bank, reported that in July-September 2024, nearly 54,200 loan deferments were granted to Russian contract and drafted servicemen, a significant increase compared to the fewer than 30,000 granted in the same period of 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In early 2023, Russian authorities enacted a law permitting banks to grant loan deferments to military personnel serving in Ukraine, likely aimed at providing a financial incentive to encourage enlistment. The surge in credit holidays granted to Russian military personnel comes as signs emerge that the Kremlin is increasingly concerned about Russia's long-term economic stability and is making efforts to reduce certain benefits for soldiers who fought against Ukraine. To quote the ISWs Key Takeaways on 16 November: Ukrainian drone operations continue to play a critical role in constraining Russian mechanised manoeuvre and preventing Russian forces from fully exploiting Ukraine's ongoing manpower constraints. [President Volodymyr] Zelenskyy emphasised that Ukraine must enter any future negotiations from a position of strength as Russian [leader] Vladimir Putin is not interested in a negotiated settlement no matter the negotiating platform or mediator that results in anything less than Ukrainian capitulation. Russian forces are innovating their long-range strike packages to include decoy Shahed drones and Shahed drones with thermobaric warheads, likely to confuse and exhaust Ukrainian air defences and increase the damages of long-range strikes. North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un has ordered North Korean defence industrial enterprises to begin serial production of likely tactical strike drones an example of how increasing Russian-North Korean military cooperation allows North Korea to learn from Russia's war in Ukraine. The Russian military command reportedly arrested and removed several commanders within the Russian 3rd Combined Arms Army (CAA) following inaccurate reports they made about alleged Russian advances near Bilohorivka and repeated outcries from the Russian milblogger community. Russian forces recently advanced near Svatove, Kreminna, Chasiv Yar, Toretsk, Pokrovsk, and Kurakhove. Russian opposition outlet Mediazona reported that the Russian Central Bank has recently issued significantly more loan deferments (credit holidays) for Russian military personnel, indicating that Russian military recruitment rates may have increased. Support UP or become our patron! Editor's note: The article was updated with comments from U.K. Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Ukraine's international partners have denounced Russia's most recent mass aerial strike launched against the country on Nov. 17. "As we approach 1,000 days since the large-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia shows it has no intention of ceasing its aggression," said Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia launched 120 missiles and 90 drones against Ukraine, hitting energy infrastructure and residential areas across the country in what became one of the largest attacks during the war. "The Netherlands will continue to support Ukraine in every way: politically, militarily, financially, and morally," Veldkamp said on X. "Norway condemns this illegal war and continues to #StandWithUkraine, providing arms and support against Russias aggression," Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said in the wake of the attack. According to U.S. Ambassador to Kyiv Bridget A. Brink, the attack underscores how "Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine threatens the security of all of Europe." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moldova's recently re-elected president, Maia Sandu, joined the condemnations, saying, "Weaponizing winter to freeze a nation into submission is cruel and unacceptable. Moldova stands with Ukraine." Ukraine's neighbor Moldova has felt the effect of Russian attacks more directly, with missile and drone wreckage being discovered on Moldovan territory on several occasions in the past. "Russia's deplorable strikes against Ukraine's energy infrastructure, ahead of Ukraine's 3rd winter of war, further shows Putin's desire to weaken the resolve of a country he thought would be beaten in days," U.K. Foreign Secretary David Lammy said. In an apparent reference to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said: "No-one will stop Putin with phone calls. The attack last night, one of the biggest in this war, has proved that telephone diplomacy cannot replace real support from the whole West for Ukraine." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia's latest barrage of missile strikes marks the first mass missile attack on Kyiv in over 2 months, with Russia instead utilizing more frequent drone strikes in recent months to attack the capital. Moscow targeted "power generation and transmission facilities throughout Ukraine," according to Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko. "The transmission system operator has urgently introduced emergency shutdowns," Halushchenko said. Officials have been warning that Russia may resume strikes on the energy grid as temperatures drop, mirroring the strategy used in the spring and summer of this year and in the autumn-winter season of 2022-2023. Read also: Russia launches one of the largest aerial strikes on Ukraine, targets energy grid Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukrainian forces are resisting a strong Russian counteroffensive in Russia's Kursk Oblast, as Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin aims to reclaim Russian territory before any potential negotiations can occur. Source: The Washington Post (WP) Details: The newspaper reports that the struggle for control over Kursk Oblast has intensified in recent days, as the Kremlin, possibly anticipating talks with the new Trump administration regarding ending the war in Ukraine, seeks to regain Russian territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The WP reports that Russia's new counteroffensive in Kursk Oblast was chaotic and launched after Donald Trump, who had pledged to end the war swiftly, won the US election. Quote: "The timing appears to demonstrate the Kremlins growing appreciation for how Kursk may play into future talks: If negotiations are to occur, Russia wants to make sure only Ukrainian land is up for debate." Quote from Konstantin Remchukov, editor-in-chief of Nezavisimaya Gazeta, who moves in Kremlin circles: "It is clear that Moscow will not start any negotiations until they have kicked out every last Ukrainian soldier from Kursk." Details: Putin is determined that Kursk not be used as a bargaining chip, nor does he intend to relinquish any Ukrainian territory gained since the invasion. Remchukov noted that Putin's recent comments about agreements needing to reflect "realities on the ground" are tied to Russia's aim to recapture Kursk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the mounting pressure, Ukraine says its forces are largely holding the line. Quote: "Oleksandr, 39, who works on intelligence in the Kursk region for the 82nd Brigade, said Ukrainian troops had destroyed more than 50 Russian vehicles, including APCs and tanks, in recent days. Russian soldiers kept repeating their mistakes, he said, such as moving on roads controlled by Ukrainian firepower, missing turns and even shooting at their own infantry positions." Background: On 16 November, reports emerged stating that Russia had lost 17 pieces of military equipment in Kursk Oblast, with mine explosions being the primary cause of the damage during an attempted assault. On Saturday, Russian forces launched 24 attacks on Kursk Oblast, nearly matching the 25 attacks on the Kurakhove front. However, their heaviest activity was reported on the Pokrovsk front, where 32 attacks were recorded. Support UP or become our patron! Punjab police arrested the kingpin of a "highway robbers/snatchers gang" after a brief exchange of fire with police near Lehli village in Mohali district, officials said on Sunday. The accused was identified as Satpreet Singh alias Satti, a resident of Dandrala in SAS Nagar. A .32 calibre pistol along with five live cartridges was recovered from his possession, Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav said. Police teams have also impounded the Platina motorcycle he was riding, police said. DGP Gaurav Yadav said that the accused has a criminal history with criminal cases pertaining to snatching and robbery registered against him. The Satti's gang primarily targeted halted vehicles on Ambala-Dera Bassi highway and was involved in multiple robberies/snatching incidents in Punjab and Haryana, he added. He said that preliminary investigations have revealed that the accused Satti along with his other three associates, was involved in two late-night robberies/snatching that took place on the Highway on November 3 and 10, 2024 in which cash, mobile and gold ornaments were robbed at gunpoint in Lalru area of Sub-Division Dera Bassi. The DGP said that further investigations are ongoing to identify and arrest his other associates. Sharing operation details, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) SAS Nagar Deepak Pareek said that during the investigation of the robbery/snatching incidents, credible information about this robbers gang headed by Satti was received that corresponded with the facts and the evidence gathered in the recent late-night incidents at Lalru. A team led by DSP Dera Bassi Bikramjit Singh Brar worked on human and technical inputs and traced Satti's movement near village Lehli, he said, while adding that when police teams were chasing accused Satti, who was riding the motorcycle, the latter opened fire on the police team. The SSP said that three fire shots hit the official police vehicle and in the retaliation fire by police teams, accused Satti sustained a bullet injury on his right leg. Further investigation is ongoing to identify and arrest other associates of Satti, he said. A case has been registered under sections 109, 132 and 221 of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and section 25 of the Arms Act at Police Station Lalru, he added. (ANI) By Lisandra Paraguassu and Elizabeth Pineau RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) - A Russian air strike on Ukraine on Sunday shook a fragile consensus among the Group of 20 major economies drafting their joint statement at an annual leaders summit in Rio de Janeiro, three diplomats familiar with the talks told Reuters. European diplomats are now pushing to revisit previously agreed language on the topic of global conflicts after Russia unleashed its largest air strike on Ukraine in almost three months. The United States responded by lifting prior limits on Ukraine's use of U.S.-made weapons to strike deep into Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The escalating conflict could upset a hard-fought consensus that G20 negotiators reached around 5 a.m. on Sunday, after an overnight push to ready the joint statement for final review by leaders arriving in Rio. That preliminary consensus after six days of negotiations included streamlined language about global conflicts including the war in Ukraine, focusing on the need to negotiate peace rather than criticism of any participants. However, sources said even that "simpler" consensus may now be up for reconsideration following the Russian air strike and the prospect of further escalation. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told a G20 news conference in Rio that he continued to support efforts for a "just peace" in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our position has been very clear in relation to ... avoiding a permanent escalation in the war in Ukraine," he said. French President Emmanuel Macron told journalists in Buenos Aires that his focus is backing a Ukrainian response. "With what is happening today, we must first equip and allow Ukraine to resist. This is the key to the coming days and the upcoming weeks," Macron said before embarking for Brazil. "We will stand by Ukraine for as long as it takes," said Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, in a Globo TV interview from Rio. Until Sunday's air strike, the toughest element of the talks in Rio had been shared language on financing to mitigate global warming, as differences at U.N. climate talks in Azerbaijan spilled over to the G20 summit in Brazil. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wealthy nations, especially in Europe, have been pushing for more countries, such as China and major Middle Eastern oil producers, to make obligatory contributions to climate finance targets. For the G20 leaders' joint statement, however, Brazil and other developing nations resisted that pressure, sources said. Two diplomats said the negotiators agreed early on Sunday to a text mentioning developing nations' voluntary contributions to climate finance, stopping short of calling them obligations. (Reporting by Lisandra Paraguassu and Elizabeth Pineau; Additional reporting by Jake Spring and Nina Lopez; Editing by Brad Haynes and Bill Berkrot) Editor's note: This is a developing story and is being updated. Russia launched multiple missile attacks on the city of Sumy overnight on Nov. 18. Regional authorities reported that a Russian ballistic missile hit a residential building in Sumy around 9:30 p.m. local time, killing 11 people. At least 89 people were injured in the overnight attacks, including 11 children. Among those killed were a 9-year-old boy and a 14-year-old girl, authorities said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later in the evening a second Russian missile struck energy infrastructure around 12:30 a.m. local time on Nov. 18, leaving parts of the city without power. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the initial attack on Telegram. A rocket attack on a nine-story building in Sumy. We know about the dead and wounded, including children. My condolences to the families and friends. The criminal must be punished for killing innocent people, he said. The rocket also hit the yard of the building, causing extensive damage and leaving surrounding homes without windows, the city's acting mayor, Artem Kobzar, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Emergency services are continuing to assist the victims, as local media report the ongoing impact of the attack. Russian strikes against Sumy Oblast have become increasingly destructive in recent months, amid fears that Russia may launch a new attack on Sumy Oblast in the coming months. Shelling is a daily occurrence for the communities near Ukraine's northeastern border with Russia, with residents in the region's vulnerable border settlements experiencing multiple attacks per day. The attack on Sumy follow a large-scale attack on energy infrastructure across the country the night prior, leaving at least seven civilians dead and at least 19 injured across multiple regions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Russia launches one of the largest aerial strikes on Ukraine, targets energy grid Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. A drone strike damaged a factory on Nov. 17 in the Russian city of Izhevsk, more than 1,300 kilometers (800 miles) from the Ukrainian border, according to Alexander Brechalov, head of Russia's Udmurt Republic. The factory produces air defense systems, radars, and other equipment for the Russian military, said Andrii Kovalenko, the head of the counter-disinformation department at Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council. "Uknown drones attacked the Izhevsk Electromechanical Plant Kupol in Russia. There, Russia produces the Tor air defense systems, as well as radars and other components," Kovalenko wrote on his Telegram channel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brechalov reported an explosion and a "drone crash" at an unnamed "factory workshop" on the city's Lenina Street. One person was injured, and the crash damaged the facility's windows, the official claimed, adding that there "was no serious damage." Citing local residents, the Russian Telegram channel Astra also reported that the 300th production unit of the Kupol defense plant, standing at the intersection of Lenina and 40 Let Pobedy streets, was targeted. The claims could not be independently verified. Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR) says it cannot provide any information at the moment in response to the Kyiv Independent's request for comment. Izhevsk is the regional center of the Udmurt Republic, lying in central Russia west of the Ural Mountains. This would mark the first drone attack against the region during the entire war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Throughout the full-scale invasion, Ukraine has carried out a number of long-range strikes deep inside Russian territory, primarily targeting the country's oil and defense industries. 0:00 / 1 Read also: Ukraine expands long-range drone strikes target list, alcohol now on the menu Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. A march organized by Russian opposition exiled leaders Yulia Navalnaya, Vladimir Kara-Murza, and Ilya Yashin in protest against Russia's war in Ukraine began in Berlin on Nov. 17. The event's participants are calling for Russia's withdrawal from Ukraine, the release of political prisoners, and to try Putin as a war criminal, Deutsche Welle reported. The event, which had been planned in advance, took place the same day as Russia launched one of its largest strikes on Ukrainian cities and the energy grid, killing and injuring civilians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the German police estimated the initial number of participants to be 1,800, the independent news outlet Meduza counted up to 6,000-7,000 people. The march moved from the Potsdamer Platz (Square) to the Brandenburg Gate, ending the procession at the nearby Russian embassy building. Navalnaya, Kara-Murza, and Yashin were in attendance. Navalnaya took up a more visible public role after the death of her husband, Alexei Navalny, in a Russian penal colony in February. She has directly accused Vladimir Putin of being responsible for her husband's death. Kara-Murza and Yashin, who were jailed in Russia as political prisoners, were released on Aug. 1 in a large-scale prisoner swap between Moscow and the West. Videos shared by the media show participants waving both Ukrainian and blue-and-white Russian opposition flags and chanting "No to war," "Putin is a murderer," and "Russia without Putin." Others held banners with pro-Ukrainian statements, such as "Ukraine's victory is also ours" and "We stand with Ukraine." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Deutsche Welle, an incident broke out when two participants brought the tricolor of the Russian Federation to the march, leading to angry protests from other demonstrators. "Putin is not Russia. Russia is us. We are against the war, against aggression. We support free, peaceful Russia," Yashin said in a speech. Russian opposition leaders have denounced the war and Putin's regime but have also come under criticism from Ukraine for calling for reduced sanctions against Russia as a whole, urging instead more targeted measures against the leadership. Asked in an interview with the German outlet Zeit whether it is correct to supply arms to Ukraine, Navalnaya responded: "It's difficult to say. The war was unleashed by Vladimir Putin, but the bombs are hitting Russians too." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "All Russian troops must be withdrawn from the territory of Ukraine immediately. The war must end immediately," she added. Oleksii Makeiev, Ukraine's ambassador to Germany, called the march "dignified and inconsequential" and a "PR campaign whose target group is not the Russian population, but German media and politicians." Read also: Opinion: The Russian opposition needs to stop blaming Putin and start confronting Russias violent imperial legacy Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Several railway sections in Ukraine's south, west and northeast suffered power outages due to a large-scale Russian attack on 17 November. Source: press service for Ukrainian Railways (Ukrzaliznytsia) Details: As of 10:20, power has been restored to the blacked-out sections of the tracks via neighbouring substations, and most trains are running with regular electric locomotives. Delays had been reported earlier on some routes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trains are running under backup diesel locomotives on sections where the power supply has not yet been restored. Background: On the night of 16-17 November, up to seven Tu-95MS strategic bombers took off from Olenegorsk, Russia. They launched cruise missiles, which entered Ukrainian airspace around 06:30. The attack, lasting about an hour, targeted Ukraine's energy sector. Support UP or become our patron! A Russian ballistic missile struck a residential building in Sumy on the evening of 17 November. Ten people are reported to have been killed, including two children, and more than 50 were injured. Source: Artem Kobzar, acting Mayor of Sumy, in a video on Telegram; Sumy City Council; local outlet Kordon.Media; President Zelenskyy; Prosecutor's Office in Sumy Oblast The aftermath of the Russian attack on Sumy. Photo: Suspilne Sumy Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo: Kordon.Media Quote: "Another ballistic missile strike in the city of Sumy targeting a residential building. We are heading to the site of the strike together with a representative of the Red Cross; more updates will follow." Update: Later, Kobzar reported that an apartment building had suffered significant damage, with numerous people injured. The aftermath of the Russian attack on Sumy. Photo: Suspilne Sumy Photo: Suspilne Sumy Quote: "Unfortunately, there is extensive damage to the residential building, many people are injured, and the windows have been destroyed. The missile struck the centre of the courtyard. All the nearby buildings are without windows. Currently, the State Emergency Service and police are evacuating residents from the affected buildings." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local outlet Kordon.Media said at least six people had been killed in the strike. At 22:08, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that people, including children, had been killed and injured in the strike. Quote: "A missile strike hit a nine-storey building in Sumy. All necessary services are already on site and a rescue operation is underway. As of now, there are confirmed deaths and injuries, including children. My condolences go out to their families and loved ones. The perpetrator must be held accountable for the killing of innocent people." Details: The Sumy Prosecutors Office reported that as of 22:00, eight people are known to have been killed, including one child, and 10 local residents were injured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least 10 residential buildings were damaged, along with vehicles, the number of which is being determined. Suspilne Sumy and Kordon.Media are reporting that about 50 people were injured. At 22:40, Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko reported eight dead, including two children (a boy, 9, and a girl, 14). Twenty local residents, including three children, sought medical assistance. At 23:36, Sumy Oblast Military Administration reported ten people dead, including two children, and 52 injured. Support UP or become our patron! Two railway workers have been killed in a Russian attack on a depot in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Source: Ukrzaliznytsia (Ukrainian Railways); Lviv Oblast Military Administration Details: Three other railway workers were injured. A woman, 66, was killed in the Chervonohrad (Sheptytskyi) District in Lviv Oblast due to the fall of Russian missile wreckage. She was in her car at the time of the attack. Two other men were injured. One of them was taken to hospital. The main heating supply pipe was damaged, temporarily leaving 6,000 people without heating. In addition, 12 garages caught fire due to the bombardment. Support UP or become our patron! Russian forces have launched a large-scale missile attack on Ukraine's power grid, targeting power generation and transmission facilities across Ukraine. Source: Ukraine's Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko on Facebook Quote: "The transmission system operator [Ukrenergo] has urgently introduced emergency power outages. Emergency workers and power engineers are already working to deal with the aftermath [of the attack] where possible." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: Ukrenergo, Ukraine's state-owned electricity transmission system operator, has introduced emergency power cuts in some cities and oblasts due to the large-scale attack. Emergency power cuts have been introduced in the city of Kyiv and Kyiv, Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk oblasts. Support UP or become our patron! A giant female Chinook salmon flips on her side in the shallow water and wriggles wildly, using her tail to carve out a nest in the riverbed as her body glistens in the sunlight. In another moment, males butt into each other as they jockey for a good position to fertilize eggs. These are scenes local tribes have dreamed of seeing for decades as they fought to bring down four hydroelectric dams blocking passage for struggling salmon along more than 400 miles (644 kilometers) of the Klamath River and its tributaries along the Oregon-California border. Now, less than a month after those dams came down in the largest dam removal project in U.S. history, salmon are once more returning to spawn in cool creeks that have been cut off to them for generations. Video shot by the Yurok Tribe show that hundreds of salmon have made it to tributaries between the former Iron Gate and Copco dams, a hopeful sign for the newly freed waterway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seeing salmon spawning above the former dams fills my heart, said Joseph L. James, chairman of the Yurok Tribe. Our salmon are coming home. Klamath Basin tribes fought for decades to make this day a reality because our future generations deserve to inherit a healthier river from the headwaters to the sea. The Klamath River flows from its headwaters in southern Oregon and across the mountainous forests of northern California before it reaches the Pacific Ocean. The completion of the hydroelectric dam removal project on Oct. 2 marked a major victory for local tribes. Through protests, testimony and lawsuits, the tribes showcased the environmental devastation caused by the dams, especially to salmon, which were cut off from their historic habitat and dying in alarming numbers because of poor water-quality. There have been lower concentrations of harmful algae blooms since the dam removal, Toz Soto, fisheries program manager with the Karuk Tribe, said during a press conference after the dams came down. In October, the water temperature during the day was an average of 8 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit) cooler compared to the same month over the last nine years, according to the Klamath River Renewal Corporation, the nonprofit entity created to oversee the project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All in all, the fish that came up this year were really healthy, Soto said. I didnt see fish with bacterial infections and things like that, so water temperatures already having an impact on the fishes health. The number of salmon that have quickly made it into previously inaccessible tributaries has also been encouraging. Experts have counted 42 redds, or salmon egg nests, and have tallied as many as 115 Chinook salmon in one day in Spencer Creek, which is above the former J.C. Boyle dam, the furthest upstream of the four removed dams, said Mark Hereford with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Theyre showing us where the good habitat is; theyre showing us where theres a lack of habitat, said Barry McCovey Jr, director of the Yurok Tribal Fisheries department. So we can use these fish to inform us as river managers, as scientists, where restoration needs to take place. Power company PacifiCorp built the dams to generate electricity between 1918 and 1962. But the structures halted the natural flow of the waterway that was once known as the third-largest salmon-producing river on the West Coast. They disrupted the lifecycle of the regions salmon, which spend most of their life in the Pacific Ocean but return to the chilly mountain streams to lay eggs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, the dams only produced a fraction of PacifiCorps energy at full capacity, enough to power about 70,000 homes. They also didnt provide irrigation, drinking water or flood control, according to Klamath River Renewal Corporation. McCovey said the return of so many salmon happened faster than he had expected and makes him hopeful for the future of the river. Out of all the milestones that weve had, this one to me is the most significant," he said. It feels like catharsis. It feels like the right path. ___ Associated Press reporter Sophie Austin contributed to this report. The Himachal Pradesh government announced the decision to expand the scope of the existing scheme Mukhyamantri Sukhashrya Yojana. Speaking on the decision, Himachal Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said on Sunday that the scheme will now include abandoned and surrendered children under its fold. The scheme, which currently benefits approximately 6,000 orphan children across the state, will now extend its support to additional children facing challenging circumstances, he said. "An abandoned child refers to one deserted by biological or adoptive parents or guardians, while a surrendered child includes those relinquished by parents or guardians due to physical, emotional, or social factors beyond their control," CM Sukhu said. Under the expanded Mukhyamantri Sukhashrya Yojana, certificates for eligible children would be issued by district child welfare committees, a government release said. Following final clearance, these children will get a variety of benefits, including monthly assistance of Rs 1,000 until the age of 14 and Rs 2,500 per kid until the age of 18. Additionally, kids would be entitled to Rs 4,000 in pocket money every month until the age of 27, it added. "The state government will also bear the full cost of their higher education until the age of 27 and provide Rs. 3,000 for PG expenses if a hostel is unavailable," he added. The Chief Minister added that in order to enable these kids to secure their livelihood, the state government would provide Rs 2 lakh to start-ups. They would also get Rs 2 lakh for marriage help and Rs 3 lakh for land and financial support to build their homes. "Himachal Pradesh has become the first State in the country to enact legislation aimed at ensuring comprehensive care and support for orphaned children. This landmark initiative reflects the state's commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of its most vulnerable section of the society," he said. "In addition to ensuring their education, welfare, and overall well-being, the state government will fund an annual air travel experience for these children, complete with a three-star hotel stay. This initiative aims to provide these children with exposure to new opportunities and experiences, helping them broaden their horizons and build confidence," he added. The state government is solely in charge of the welfare, education, and parenting of orphaned children under the program. "The state now has to provide these children with the necessary resources and opportunities to lead dignified and fulfilling lives," he added. (ANI) The Salvation Army of Pottsville could use more help to continue to feed the hungry and serve the needs of the community. On Friday, about 20 Realtors from Berkshire Hathaway HomeSale Realty, of Schuylkill Haven, were busy preparing food and doing other needed tasks in the Salvation Armys kitchen at 400 Sanderson St. We see the need, said Mike Wozniski, manager of the realty company. Realtors from the group said they realized the Salvation Army provides a valuable community service and wanted to assist. Friday was the first time they did so as a group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Susan Gormley, a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway, said she previously volunteered with her church and knew the Salvation Army officials would appreciate the help. Through their generosity, about 60 people enjoyed a lunch at the Body and Soul Cafe, which is where anyone from the community can have lunch on Fridays. The Body and Soul Cafe is housed in the gymnasium, and its something the Salvation Army has been doing since 2017. While volunteers with the Salvation Army usually prepare the lunches on Friday, there are only a few who cook, so if a cook cant make it, thats a hardship, said Capt. Betty Barrett, who along with her husband, Capt. Derek Barrett, are in charge of the site. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are about 10 people who volunteer with the Salvation for a variety of reasons, Capt. Derek said. Still, they are in need of a maintenance person and more cooks. Starting about 8:30 a.m. on Nov. 15, the volunteers prepared meatballs, garlic bread, green beans, salad and other ingredients for a delicious free meal. * Mike Wozniski prepares lunch as he volunteers at the Salvation Army in Pottsville on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024DAVID MCKEOWN / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR * Tara Grochowski, left, and Taylor Staller make garlic bread as they volunteer at the Salvation Army in Pottsville on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024DAVID MCKEOWN / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Tara Grochowski, left, and Taylor Staller make garlic bread as they volunteer at the Salvation Army in Pottsville on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024DAVID MCKEOWN / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Show Caption 1 of 3 Mike Wozniski prepares lunch as he volunteers at the Salvation Army in Pottsville on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024DAVID MCKEOWN / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Expand We see about 60 people every week, Capt. Betty said. The Salvation Army could not run without volunteers, Derek said. Carol Hinckle, 64,of Pottsville, was enjoying spaghetti with her daughters godson, 4. She doesnt come every Friday, but said the food is appreciated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before the meal, Capt. Betty talked about treating others with respect. The clothes people wear isnt important, but who they are as people is. We must love others as ourselves, she said. The Salvation Army is open Monday to Friday and has a Sunday service. A food pantry is also available Tuesdays and Thursdays by appointment. Plus, emergency food is available. To volunteer or donate to the Salvation Army, call 570-622-5252. While Sara is no longer a tropical storm it will still influence an uptick in moisture in the Gulf of Mexico and spread heavy rain into part of the United States. Sara brought catastrophic, life-threatening flooding and mudslides over northern portions of Honduras, where over 40 inches of rain have fallen at some locations this past weekend. That rain, to a lesser extent, spread into other parts of Central America. Sara moved across Belize and into Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula Sunday afternoon and into Sunday night. The time over land caused Sara to lose wind intensity and become a tropical depression. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Monday morning, Sara became a tropical rainstorm and is tracking across the Gulf of Mexico. As Sara moves along, a cold front will be advancing eastward through Arkansas and Louisiana. This front will draw some of Sara's moisture northward. Even though Sara will largely be stretched out and start to lose its identity by Monday night and Tuesday, its moisture will still enhance rainfall along the Gulf Coast. GET THE FREE ACCUWEATHER APP Have the app? Unlock AccuWeather Alerts with Premium+ "Tropical Rainstorm Sara can bring flooding downpours to the northern Gulf Coast Monday night through Tuesday night, with a wide swath of 2-4 inches or more from eastern Louisiana to the Florida Panhandle," said AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva. The AccuWeather Local StormMax is 12 inches. Heavy rain may also spread southward along the Florida Peninsula into midweek. On Tuesday, Sara will turn northeastward toward part of the U.S. coast with gusty winds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Winds can occasionally gust to 40-60 mph, with the highest wind gusts likely to be confined to the coast and coinciding with any heavier downpours," noted DaSilva. Landfall in Florida is likely on Wednesday morning as a tropical rainstorm. As the aforementioned cold front makes its way across Florida and interacts with Sara, there may even be the risk of a few severe thunderstorms. The most likely location for any severe weather would be across the Florida Peninsula. DaSilva also pointed out that the spin associated with Sara could produce a few isolated tornadoes. With any stronger downpours and thunderstorms, locally higher wind gusts over 60 mph would be possible. Even outside of the wind and rain areas, there will be another hazard that will affect the Gulf Coast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is important to note that there will be a dangerous rip current risk along the Gulf Coast from Monday through Wednesday as a result of the tropical rainstorm," warned DaSilva. After Sara, DaSilva said that while there could be a tropical or subtropical storm in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean into early December, any U.S. impacts from additional tropical storms or hurricanes are highly unlikely for the rest of the year. Want next-level safety, ad-free? Unlock advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts when you subscribe to Premium+ on the AccuWeather app. AccuWeather Alerts are prompted by our expert meteorologists who monitor and analyze dangerous weather risks 24/7 to keep you and your family safer. Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, will not attend the upcoming G20 summit in Brazil, state media reported on Sunday. Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhat arrived on Sunday in Rio de Janeiro to lead the monarchy's delegation at the G20 summit on behalf of the crown prince, the official Saudi news agency SPA reported. The agency did not provide an explanation for the powerful royal's absence from the gathering of the leading economic powers in Rio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier Sunday, a well-informed Saudi source told dpa that prince Mohammed will not go to Brazil. However, the heir apparent is set to attend an annual Gulf summit in Kuwait on December 1 and will host French President Emmanuel Macron, who is scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia starting December 2, the source added, requesting anonymity. The source also declined to address reports that the 39-year-old royal is dealing with an ear issue, which could be aggravated by the long-haul flight to Brazil. The G20 summit will focus on key issues including poverty alleviation, reforms of global institutions, climate protection, and the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. Saudi Arabia, the world's largest oil exporter, is the sole Arab representative in the G20 bloc. JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. Will Scharf, who lost a challenge to unseat Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey last summer, has been appointed to a position on President-elect Donald Trumps upcoming White House Staff. Scharf will served as a White House Staff Secretary and an assistant to Trump, according to a statement from the President-elect on Saturday. A former assistant U.S. attorney and policy director, Scharf began his political career in 2015 when he was hired as the policy director for Catherine Hanaway during her campaign for the 2016 Republican gubernatorial nomination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, Scharf announced that he had joined the team of lawyers representing former President Donald Trump in various legal matters related to the January 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol. During his summer campaign challenging incumbent Andrew Bailey in the Republican primary election for Missouri Attorney General, Scharf released an eye-catching advertisement that appeared to depict him using a grenade launcher to destroy boxes of documents that symbolized evidence against Trump in legal proceedings. A statement from President Donald Trump reads, in part: Will is a highly skilled attorney who will be a crucial part of my White House team. He has played a key role in defeating the Election Interference and Lawfare waged against me, including by winning the Historic Immunity Decision in the Supreme Court. As White House Staff Secretary, Scharf has been called to serve as a gatekeeper for information flowing to the president-elect. The role involves managing and organizing documents, reviewing materials and acting as a liaison between the presidents senior staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. Olaf Scholzs phone call with Vladimir Putin was criticised by European leaders on Sunday as Russian missiles rained down in Ukraine in one of the biggest attacks of the war. Moscow unleashed a massive combined assault of more than 200 missiles and drones across the whole of Ukraine overnight, killing at least 10 people as it tried to knock out Kyivs energy grid with winter looming. Donald Tusk, Polands prime minister, said the barrage proved no-one will stop Putin with phone calls and that telephone diplomacy cannot replace real support from the whole West. Olaf Scholz, the German chancellor, was criticised by European leaders on Sunday after his phone call with Vladimir Putin - Annegret Hilse/Reuters Several power stations were severely damaged, forcing Ukraine to apply energy restrictions across the entire country on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The scale of the attack prompted Poland, which borders Ukraine, to scramble its air force and place its air defence systems on high alert. Andrii Sybiha, Ukraines foreign minister, said that Russias missile barrage of Ukraine was Putins true response to all those who had called and visited him recently. Elina Valtonen, Finlands foreign minister, called on European leaders to avoid more calls with Putin. The most important thing is that we understand that we should not once again vie for the Kremlins attention. This will not help if the heads of European states make coordinated or uncoordinated phone calls with Putin, she said in an interview with ARD Europe magazine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Saturday, Volodymyr Zelensky accused Olaf Scholz of opening a Pandoras box for calling Putin for the first time in two years. Mr Scholz urged the Russian president to negotiate with Ukraine in order to restore just and lasting peace, according to a German government spokesman. Speaking to Vladimir Putin is opening a Pandoras box, according to Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president - Vyacheslav Prokofyev/Sputnik Kremlin Pool Sir Keir Starmer, while not directly criticising the German chancellor, insisted he had no plans to call the Russian president. Its a matter for Chancellor Scholz who he speaks to. I have no plans to speak to Putin, Sir Keir told reporters as he made his way to the G20 summit on Sunday in Rio de Janeiro. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Justin Trudeau, Canadas prime minister, however suggested he was in favour of opening a dialogue with the Russian president. We all understand how important it is to see an end to the violence in Ukraine, to see an end to conflicts around the world, Mr Trudeau told Bloomberg during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Peru. That requires a level of engagement with counterparts who in many cases we disagree with. Russians march in Berlin In Berlin on Sunday, prominent Russian opposition figures led a march of at least 1,000 supporters through the city, calling for an end to the war in Ukraine and for Russia without Putin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of Alexei Navalny, was at the head of the protest and was one of its key organisers. Alexei Navalny was seen as the figurehead of Russias opposition movement before he died in February in a Russian prison under mysterious circumstances. Ms Navalnaya joined forces with two other opposition figures for the rally: former Moscow city councillor and long-time anti-Putin campaigner Ilya Yashin and Vladimir Kara-Murza, who survived two poisoning attempts. Kremlin press secretary Dmitry Peskov dismissed the opposition figures ahead of the protest, saying they were completely detached from the reality inside Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He claimed that their views were of no interest for Russians. 05:13 PM GMT Thats all for today Thanks for following our live coverage of the war in Ukraine. It has now ended for the day. Well be back soon with more updates and analysis soon. In the meantime, here are the headlines from today: Russia targets Ukraines energy in one of largest attacks of war Energy attack Putins response to recent calls Death toll from overnight attack rises to 10 Scholz: Putins attitude towards war has not changed Ukraine announces nationwide power restrictions 05:10 PM GMT Ukraine announces nationwide power restrictions Ukraine has announced nationwide power restrictions, set to take effect on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It follows a massive overnight attack by Russia, which targeted all regions in Ukraine, according to Volodymyr Zelensky. Tomorrow, November 18, all regions will be forced to apply consumption restriction measures, the energy ministry posted on social media. The reason for the temporary return of restrictions is the damage to power facilities during todays massive missile and drone attack. Firefighters work at the site of a critical infrastructure facility hit by a Russian missile strike in Vinnytsia - REUTERS 05:05 PM GMT Helsinki joins criticism of Putin call Elina Valtonen, Finlands foreign minister, has called on European leaders to refrain from holding any more calls with Vladimir Putin after Olaf Scholzs conversation with the Russian president. The most important thing is that we understand that we should not once again vie for the Kremlins attention. This will not help if the heads of European states make coordinated or uncoordinated phone calls with Putin, she said in an interview with ARD Europe magazine. 05:00 PM GMT Trudeau signals support for Scholz call Justin Trudeau, Canadas prime minister, suggested he was in favour of the West opening a dialogue with Vladimir Putin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We all understand how important it is to see an end to the violence in Ukraine, to see an end to conflicts around the world, Mr Trudeau told Bloomberg during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Peru. That requires a level of engagement with counterparts who in many cases we disagree with. Justin Trudeau, the Canadian prime minister, signalled his support for Olaf Scholzs call with Vladimir Putin - The Canadian Press Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 04:50 PM GMT Death toll from overnight attack rises to 10 The death toll from Russias large-scale overnight attack on Ukraine has risen to 10, according to authorities. Volodymyr Zelensky said Moscow launched a massive combined strike on all regions, causing significant damage to the countrys energy infrastructure. Ukrainian air defense intercepts air strikes over Kyiv - Shutterstock 04:40 PM GMT Three killed and four wounded in attack on Kherson Three people have died and four more wounded after a Russian attack on a car in Kherson. A man, 58, and a woman, 51, were killed, authorities said. The age and gender of the third victim is not known. Russia is increasingly using kamikaze drones to hunt and attack civilians in the southern Ukrainian city. 04:25 PM GMT North Korea to mass produce kamikaze drones North Korea will start mass-producing kamikaze drones after dictator Kim Jong-un was impressed with a test display on Thursday, according to its state media, write Daniel Hardaker and Jorg Luyken. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Accompanied by top political officials, Kim was said to have acquainted himself with several types of kamikaze drones produced by North Koreas Unmanned Aeronautical Technology Complex [UATC]. State media said the test was successful, with every drone hitting its target precisely as intended. One photo showed Kim, dressed in a white two-piece suit and matching hat, inspecting one of the unmanned aerial vehicles [UAVs] as a crowd of officials looked on. Read the full story here. Kim Jong-un, the North Korean leader, inspects kamikaze attack drones at an undisclosed location in the country - STR/STR/KCNA/KNS/AFP via Getty 03:45 PM GMT Russian attacks send clear message to Washington Russias attack on Ukraine has sent a clear message to Washington that it will not be defeated, an expert has said. Orysia Lutsevych, deputy director of the Russia and Eurasia Programme at Chatham House, told Sky News Moscow wants to pressure the West into reducing support for Ukraine. I think [the attacks are] to demonstrate, especially [to] president-elect Trump, that Russia cannot be defeated, that the cost for sustaining the war in Ukraine is too high for the West and the result will be futile, she said. This is a clear message to Washington, but also its a clear message to Ukrainian people that Putin wants to freeze them in winter. 03:32 PM GMT Make no mistake, Ukraine wont surrender to Putin Yesterday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed to do everything to end Russias war against his country by diplomatic means in 2025. Zelensky conceded the return of Donald Trump as US president will hasten the end of the Ukraine war. Zelenskys comments raised eyebrows as he departed from his typically defiant tone. But Ukraine is pre-emptively warning its Western partners of the inevitability of Russian betrayal. Despite military setbacks in Donetsk, Ukraine is doing all it can to stay in the fight. In recent days, the Ukrainian Armed Forces thwarted Russias advance on the Kharkiv battleground of Kupiansk. Russias 50,000-man army in Kursk, which includes North Korean soldiers, has failed to dislodge Ukrainian forces from their entrenched positions. Russian casualties are now at their highest levels since the start of the Ukraine war 1,500 men are killed or injured each day. Even if Trump can engage Russia in talks on ending the war, the Kremlin will not enter these negotiations from a position of unbridled strength. Read the full story here. 02:55 PM GMT Lammy: Russian attacks are deplorable Russias massive overnight attack on Ukraine was deplorable, the Foreign Secretary has said. The attacks showed Putins desire to weaken the resolve of a country he thought would be beaten in days, David Lammy wrote on X. It wont work. We stand wit Ukraine. Today and for as long as it takes. Russia's deplorable strikes against Ukraine's energy infrastructure, ahead of Ukraine's 3rd winter of war, further shows Putin's desire to weaken the resolve of a country he thought would be beaten in days. It won't work. We stand with Ukraine. Today and for as long as it takes. David Lammy (@DavidLammy) November 17, 2024 02:31 PM GMT Ukraines nuclear power plants operating at reduced capacity Ukraines nuclear power plants are operating at reduced capacity as a precautionary measure after Russias overnight attacks, the International Atomic Energy Agency has said. Of the nine operational reactors at three nuclear power plants, six reduced their output throughout the morning. One has been shut down for maintenance, with just two operating at full capacity. 02:00 PM GMT Russias opposition marches against Ukraine war in Berlin Around one thousand supporters of Russias exiled opposition marched through central Berlin on Sunday against Vladimir Putin and the war in Ukraine. Led by opposition leader Yulia Navalnaya, the march aimed at reviving the weakened anti-Putin movement began in a park in the German capital before heading towards Moscows embassy, the journalists witnessed. Yulia Navalnaya, widow of late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, leads an anti-Putin demonstration in Berlin - AFP Yulia Navalnaya, widow of late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny - AFP 01:28 PM GMT In pictures: Queues for water in Odesa Residents in Odesa, southern Ukraine, are queuing for water after Russias overnight strikes caused severe damage to Ukraines critical infrastructure. Odesa, southern Ukraine, has suffered water shortages in the wake of Russias massive overnight attack - REUTERS Residents fill up bottles with fresh drinking water after critical civil infrastructure was hit by Russian missile attacks in Odesa - REUTERS 12:47 PM GMT Scholz: Nothing can be decided without Ukraine More coming in from Olaf Scholz, Germanys chancellor, after his call with Vladimir Putin. Ukraine can count on us and no decision will be taken behind Ukraines back, the chancellor said at Berlin airport before flying to a G20 meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. 12:23 PM GMT Scholz: Putins attitude towards war has not changed Olaf Scholz said his call with Vladimir Putin showed him that little has changed in the Russian presidents attitude towards the war against Ukraine. The German chancellor defended his controversial call with Putin, saying it would also not be good if Washington were in regular contact with Putin while no European leader was. The conversation was very detailed but contributed to a recognition that little has changed in the Russian Presidents views of the war - and thats not good news, Scholz told reporters on Sunday. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has defended his call with Vladimir Putin - REUTERS 12:02 PM GMT Zelensky: Only together can we stop this evil Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of orchestrating energy blackouts in Ukraine by targeting critical infrastructure. The entire world sees and knows that we are defending ourselves against absolute evil, which understands no language but force. We need unity, the world needs unity. Only together can we stop this evil, the Ukrainian president said. Over the past week, the aggressor used nearly 140 missiles of various types, more than 900 guided aerial bombs, and over 600 strike drones. Today, our F-16 pilots shot down approximately 10 aerial targets. Efforts to address the consequences of the combined attack on our pic.twitter.com/rpRNJmIPIn Volodymyr Zelenskyy / (@ZelenskyyUa) November 17, 2024 11:32 AM GMT War will end sooner with Trump in White House, says Zelensky Donald Trumps election victory means the war in Ukraine will end sooner than expected, Volodymyr Zelensky has said in an interview calling for a diplomatic solution, writes James Rothwell. It is certain that the war will end sooner with the policies of the team that will now lead the White House, Mr Zelensky told Ukrainian news outlet Suspilne. This is their approach, their promise to their citizens. Mr Zelensky, who had previously said Russia must be expelled from all of Ukraine militarily, said a solution needed to come next year through diplomatic means. Read the full story here. Volodymyr Zelensky and Donald Trump met at Trump tower during the Ukrainian presidents visit to New York in September - Shutterstock 11:03 AM GMT Two killed in Odesa Two people have died and a 17-year-old injured in Russias attack on Odesa, southern Ukraine. Oleh Kiper, the local governor, said the regions energy infrastructure had been damaged, causing interruptions in the supply of heat, water and electricity. In total seven people have died as a result of Russias overnight attack. A Ukrainian woman in tears after a Russian strike on her home town in Odesa, southern Ukraine - Shutterstock Every region in Ukraine was targeted in Russias overnight attack, including Odesa - Shutterstock 10:57 AM GMT Russia causes severe damage to Ukraines energy system Russia has caused severe damage to Ukraines energy system, according to the CEO of DTEK, one of the countrys largest private energy companies,has said. Maxim Timchenko said the attacks highlight Ukraines need for additional air defence systems from our allies to prevent more destruction. The supply of power to millions this winter depends upon it, he wrote. russia has resumed its attacks against us this morning. Severe damage to Ukraine's energy system, including to DTEK power stations. These attacks again highlight Ukraine's need for additional air defence systems from our allies to prevent more destruction. The supply of power to pic.twitter.com/YSOrZ4Pa9d Maxim Timchenko (@TimchenkoMaxim) November 17, 2024 10:31 AM GMT Woman, 66, dies in Russian attack on Lviv A 66-year-old woman has died after a Russian attack on Lviv in western Ukraine. The woman was in her car at the time of the attack, local authorities said, and was killed by a falling Russian rocket. Two men were also injured. Emergency services work to put out a fire in Lviv, which was attacked by Russia overnight - Shutterstock 10:08 AM GMT Poland scrambles jets after Russian attack Polands air force scrambled its jets due to Russias massive overnight attack on Ukraine. Polish and allied aircraft began operating in Polish airspace, according to the operational command of the countrys armed forces. The country activated all available forces and resources and on-duty fighter pairs were scrambled, reaching the highest state of readiness, a statement read. 09:50 AM GMT Moscow confirms attack on Ukraines energy Russian forces launched a massive strike on energy facilities that supply Ukraines military-industrial complex, Russian news agencies reported, citing the defence ministry. Ukraines military airfield infrastructure was also hit, it added. 09:34 AM GMT In pictures: Missiles explode over Kyiv Missile traces and smoke after explosions of missiles are seen in the sky over Kyiv - Reuters Russia targeted all regions in the overnight attack, including Kyiv - REUTERS 09:20 AM GMT Ukraine destroyed 140 missile and drones, says Zelensky Ukrainian air defences destroyed over 140 missiles and drones launched during Russias overnight attack, according to Volodymyr Zelensky. The Ukrainian president said in a statement that Russia launched around 120 missiles and 90 drones overnight, targeting all regions of Ukraine. A massive combined attack targeted all regions of Ukraine. Overnight and this morning, Russian terrorists used various types of drones, including Shaheds, as well as cruise, ballistic, and aeroballistic missilesZircons, Iskanders, and Kinzhals. In total, approximately 120 Volodymyr Zelenskyy / (@ZelenskyyUa) November 17, 2024 09:15 AM GMT Pictured: Ukrainians take shelter amid Russian attacks Ukrainians ran for cover as Russia launched its massive overnight attack across the country. Worried parents and children could be seen crowding inside a metro station in Kyiv, while firefighters worked to put out a blaze in Lviv following a Russian attack. Some 210 missiles and drones were launched at Ukraine overnight, according to Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president. People take shelter inside a metro station during Russias overnight attack - REUTERS Emergency services personnel work to extinguish a fire after an attack in Lviv - Ukrainian Emergency Service 09:10 AM GMT Energy attack Putins response to recent calls Andrii Sybiha, Ukraines foreign minister, said Russias overnight energy attack is Vladimir Putins response to those who called and visited him recently. It comes after Volodymyr Zelensky criticised a call between Olaf Scholz, the German chancellor, and Putin, described it as a Pandoras box. Donald Trump is also thought to have spoken with Putin on the phone after his election victory. We need peace through strength, not appeasement, Mr Sybiha said. 09:05 AM GMT Welcome to our live coverage Good morning and welcome to our live coverage of the war in Ukraine. Well be bringing you the latest news and analysis from the conflict throughout the day. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Following criticism from Ukraine and the opposition, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz defended his phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Source: Scholz on Sunday, 17 November, before leaving for the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, writes ntv and Ukrinform, as reported by European Pravda Details: According to Scholz, during the call, it was critical to convey to Putin "that he cannot count on the fact that support for Ukraine from Germany, Europe, and many other countries of the world will decrease." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Scholz acknowledged that Putin's view on the war has not altered. Scholz offered another reason in support of his call to Moscow: he believes it would be a bad idea if the elected US president spoke with the head of the Kremlin while Putin did not speak with the head of government of a major European country. Quote: "We should not have illusions and be naive. Russia and its president started this war... They are ready to risk resources, including their own people, to implement a plan to seize Ukraine, take away its sovereignty and democracy. We cannot and will not allow it. Therefore, it is important to make it clear today that we will not stop our support. On the part of Russia, it would be an illusion to think that Ukraine in the future will not be able to count on our support... No decision will be made behind Ukraine's back." Background: On the afternoon of 15 November, it was reported that Scholz had spoken to Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin for the first time in two years. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy labelled the call a "Pandora's box". However, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau backed Scholz's decision to speak directly with the Kremlin ruler. Jurgen Hardt, a member of the Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU), believes that Putin will see Scholz's move as "a sign of weakness, not strength". At the same time, Matthias Miersch, Secretary General of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD), spoke in defence of the chancellor's decision. Support UP or become our patron! TREMONT Terrible odors that regularly force people indoors, invade homes and cause people to gag were discussed at a public meeting held by the Department of Environmental Protection on Thursday night. DEP said complaints about those smells in western Schuylkill County have increased greatly in recent months, which prompted the three-hour informational meeting at the Tremont Municipal Building that focused mainly on treated sewage sludge. DEP representatives were on hand to answer questions from residents, who also reinforced to officials just how noxious the odors are. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Sign outside of the Natural Soil Products along East Good Spring Road, Tremont, on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024DAVID MCKEOWN / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR * Two large buildings at Natural Soil Products, Tremont, that are used for processing biosolids can be seen from East Good Spring Road outside of Tremont on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024DAVID MCKEOWN / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Show Caption 1 of 2 Sign outside of the Natural Soil Products along East Good Spring Road, Tremont, on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024DAVID MCKEOWN / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Expand They talked about the frequent smells chasing them inside from picnics, forcing them to close windows, waking them up during the night, prompting children to cover their noses at their bus stops, causing health symptoms like throat and nose irritation, nausea and headaches, and generally making life miserable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Take care of the smell, and take care of the residents of Schuylkill County, Debra Bourgeois of Frailey Township told officials. Roger Bellas, who manages the northeast regional office of DEPs waste management program, said he knows things cant be done fast enough for those experiencing the odors. He and other agency officials said that they recognize that there is a problem, are working to prove where that stench is coming from, and are trying to bring a solution for residents. About 100 Schuylkill County residents turned out Thursday night for a DEP hearing in Tremont. (Michael Urban/Reporter) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While five local companies were mentioned by agency officials as being suspected of creating foul odors over the years, one company was singled out by DEP as receiving the bulk of the recent complaints and concerns Natural Soil Products in Frailey Township. The 100-acre facility is permitted to receive up to 350 tons of sewage sludge daily, which it then processes through its composting system into biosolids that are shipped offsite. Neither the company nor its parent firm, Tully Environmental Inc., could be reached for comment Friday. The EPAs stance is that while biosolids may emit a distinctive odor depending on the treatment process and methods used, that does not mean that they pose harm to human health and the environment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DEP said that its permitting rules are stricter than federal requirements. But those who live in several western Schuylkill County municipalities say that their quality of life and property values have been hurt greatly by the odors that biosolids create. They also worry that materials are polluting the local air, water and soil, and fear that they are making people sick. The grass-roots group Save the West End of Schuylkill County has been especially vocal on the subject on social media and at previous public meetings, complaining about Natural Soil Products and also that western Schuylkill has become a dumping ground for all types of unwanted materials by corporations. Shirley Wagner of Joliet asked DEP to conduct a cumulative impact study on the long-term health and environmental effects of the operations that residents are concerned about, which she outlined on a map. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were sitting ducks waiting for this slop to raise its ugly head, she said. Shirley Wagner of Joliet shows a map of sites shes concerned about with the help of Schuylkill County Commissioner Barron Boots Hetherington during a DEP meeting Thursday night. (Michael Urban/Reporter) Several DEP officials said that the testing theyve done shows that no harm is being done to air or water quality, but a number of people in the crowd expressed skepticism. Bellas said that DEP follows up on all complaints it receives, but that the vast majority of recent odor reports involve Natural Soil Products, which has a history of violations. DEP fined the company $76,000 several years ago for allowing odors from that exceeded department standards and for missing a deadline on installing an estimated $10 million system to mitigate those smells. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DEP considered the matter resolved in 2023 after that system was put in place, but now the stench is back and suspected of coming from the company, Bellas said. On Sept. 12, DEP issued the company a violation notice and required it to perform additional odor mitigation. The company now must close both ends of a biosolids processing building, and there is a possibility of more penalties if a case can be proven that its still causing odor problems, Bellas said. In the meantime, when residents notice a bad smell that they suspect is coming from any local operation they should call the DEP hotline at 570-826-2511 to report it, officials said. The department then sends an odor patrol to the area, where a DEP employee smells for themselves whether the reported stench exists, and if so, tries to trace it to its sources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Odor cases are hard to prosecute in court because most monitoring devices arent as sensitive to odor-causing particulates as the human nose is, meaning the department relies on those odor patrol reports, Bellas said. The goal is to get compliance and alleviate the problem whether through ordered actions, fines, or both, he said. We are doing everything within our regulatory powers to ensure your safety, he said. We hear you. We are investigating. And if we can prove that they are accumulating violations, theyll be penalized for it. The time it takes to bring action is frustrating, though, to a number of residents and to the Save the West End group, which has about 1,300 members on its Facebook page, a number of whom spoke at the meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Save the West End Co-Founder Tammy Saltzman of Tremont said that she wants less self-reporting by the companies and more DEP monitoring of the sites to help ensure they are not exceeding their permitted capacity or causing pollution. We all know that people lie, and corporations lie, she said. This self-reporting is ridiculous. Fellow co-founder Wendy Madenford of Tremont said that she has often been around cow and horse manure on farms but that biosolids are far more noxious. Schuylkill Countys three commissioners have frequently heard environmental complaints from the group, and all three were in attendance at the meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People have the right to enjoy their properties, said commissioners chairman Larry Padora, urging DEP to take the complaints seriously. Padora said that he suspects that Natural Soil Products creates stronger odors when they increase their production, a concern that Bellas said DEP is looking into. Bellas also recommended that residents keep track of the zoning decisions made at the municipal and county level, since that is where the approvals are given to plants that could potentially cause problems. Also discussed were these DEP permitted operations: * Liberty Soils, a biosolids producing facility in Reilly Township. * Summit Anthracite, a mining facility in Porter Township that is also permitted for the beneficial use of drinking water treatment sludge and other materials from industrial wastewater treatment facilities to enhance its mine reclamation activities on site. * Rausch Creek, a strip-mining site that is located in Tremont, Hegins and Porter townships and has a mining permit application currently under review by the department. * CES Landfill, a facility in Frailey, Reilly and Foster townships that is allowed to accept and dispose of municipal and residual waste. CES currently has a waste management permit application under review for an expansion of the landfill. Laura Helmuth, the former chief editor of Scientific American, resigned Thursday after messages she posted on Bluesky about Trump supporters were shared in conservative circles. In a since-deleted message, Helmuth described some Trump voters as the meanest, dumbest, most bigoted people. Helmuth also lamented that her generation of voters is so full of fking fascists. Ive decided to leave Scientific American after an exciting 4.5 years as editor in chief. Im going to take some time to think about what comes next (and go birdwatching), but for now Id like to share a very small sample of the work Ive been so proud to support (thread) Laura Helmuth (@laurahelmuth.bsky.social) 2024-11-14T19:23:01.434Z Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive decided to leave Scientific American after an exciting 4.5 years as editor in chief. Im going to take some time to think about what comes next (and go birdwatching), but for now Id like to share a very small sample of the work Ive been so proud to support, Helmuth wrote on the social media platform. She followed that message with links to several articles from the publication and later added an apology for her messages about the election. These posts, which I have deleted, do not reflect my beliefs; they were a mistaken expression of shock and confusion about the election results, Helmuth explained. She concluded, I could go on all day, but for now I want to end by saying that we CAN make things better, or at least try to stop things from getting worse. We fixed acid rain. People survive HIV/AIDS. There are bald eagles everywhere! We have vaccines against cancer! And the way things get better is Things get better through long-term thinking, investments in research, wide and welcoming collaborations, honest education, mentorship and sponsorship, not catastrophizing failure, justice, hope, and solidarity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This years election marked the second time in 180 years that Scientific American endorsed a presidential candidate. In their September endorsement, the editors of the outlet offered a comprehensive comparison of Harris policies (and Biden-Harris policies) and Trump policies. At the top of the ballot, Harris does deserve our vote. She offers us a way forward lit by rationality and respect for all, the editors wrote. They added, One of two futures will materialize according to our choices in this election. Only one is a vote for reality and integrity. We urge you to vote for Kamala Harris. Helmuts resignation was met with support for her work at the magazine. Writer and science journalist Sabrina Imbler wrote on Bluesky, Laura Helmuths impact on Scientific American & science journalism is immeasurable. She demonstrated how a major legacy publication could be a moral one: rigorous reporting on the climate crisis & untangling how science is political, such as explaining why trans kids deserve gender-affirming care. The post Scientific American Editor Resigns After Saying Trump Supporters Are the Meanest, Dumbest, Most Bigoted Voters appeared first on TheWrap. Just one enzyme manages the refilling of the cellular soda machine that replicates our genes. PLK-1 initiates a process in two protein groups, leading to creation of new CENP-A proteins. These CENP-A proteins ensure that divided genetic information is kept intact during mitosis. Biologists in Europe and the U.S. have pinpointed a secret that powers the human bodys gene replicating ability. These areas, called centromeres, are responsible for billions and billions of perfect DNA matches made over the course of our lifetimes, ensuring that cells can divide successfully. And when they dontthats when conditions like cancer take hold. The centromere has a lot resting on its microcellular shoulders. For decades, scientists have wondered what exactly is holding these complex reactions together.... literally. Now, a team of scientistsincluding corresponding author A. Arockia Jeyaprakash (also sometimes referred to as Jeyaprakash Arulanandam online) and more than a dozen othershas found that the enzyme PLK-1 is responsible for the centromeres incredibly high success rate in replicating our genes from cell to cell. The results of their study appear now in the peer-reviewed journal Science. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scientists have known that PLK-1 (short for polo-like kinase 1) is produced by a specific genetic code of its own. Study of it dates back at least 30 years, and its role in the cell is to help process the major cellular energy sources ATP and ADP. But it was the genes role in cancer that first got scientists attention, because PLK-1as a signature of its geneis found in tumors of cancers of the lung, colon, stomach, and esophagus, among others. Cancer works by leveraging the bodys existing efficient processes into creating new, unrelated cells that are harmful. Its like taking the gas pump delivering fuel into your cars tank and pointing it toward a forest fire. The fuel pump is still doing its designated job, and it has no sense of the difference in outcomes, but the results will be disastrous nontheless. The fact that PLK-1 endures in the cells of tumors shows that it endures in general, and is involved in mitosis (the division of cells for replication) under even extreme body conditions like neoplastic (tumor) growth. When a cell divides, the double helix of DNA is divided, as well. Centromeres coordinate the precise, nearly perfect matchmaking of the separated strands with their associated enzymes in each new cell. But whos watching the watcher, as they say? How is the centromere so persistent, despite being copied and copied and copied? Well, it turns out that PLK-1 restocks vital materials that indicate the centromere is ready to take action. To do this, PLK-1 uses a reaction called phosphorylation, meaning that it adds a molecule called a phosphate to an existing protein. Phosphatesrepresented by the common version phosphoric acid (H 3 PO 4 ) or the simplest form PO 4 work like switched that turn a proteins behavior on or off from its previous position. By phosphorylating two specific protein groups involved in the centromere, PLK-1 functionally creates a queue of the protein that the centromere actually needs, known as CENP-A. These CENP-A proteins then line up to ensure that individual chromosomes are kept organized as theyre separated and migrated, like a camp counselor keeping tabs on children who split from their buddy pairs to use the restroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Previous work showed the involvement of PLK-1 in this reaction (including work by the same team on one of the proteins that PLK-1 is phosphorylating), but scientists did not understand the chemical reactions themselves. In a University of Edinburgh statement, Jeyaprakash described the process as a relay race to ensure that enough CENP-A is present for a working centromere area. In that sense, Jeyaprakash said, the entire chain of events is essential to the creation and maintenance of life. Each piece plays a vital roleliterally. You Might Also Like Deora is also the party's candidate from Maharashtra's Worli assembly constituency for the upcoming polls scheduled to be held on November 20. In a post on X, Deora said that he had proposed to declare a day of national mourning for Balasaheb to the UPA government in 2012 but his idea was "blocked by certain elements" within the alliance. Deora also shared a picture of Balasaheb Thackeray as a tribute on the occasion of the veteran leader's death anniversary on Sunday. "I welcome Congress finally acknowledging Balasaheb Thackeray's legacy after 12 years. In 2012, as a Union Minister from Mumbai, I proposed that the UPA declare a day of national mourning for Balasaheb. While then PM Dr Manmohan Singh seemed supportive, the idea was blocked by certain elements within the alliance," Deora said. Paying tribute to Balasaheb Thackeray, Milind Deora said, "Today his fearless leadership is remembered. The voice fighting for the rights of Maharashtra still inspires us today. Balasaheb, you will be missed forever." Congress MP and Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi earlier paid homage to Balasaheb Thackeray. "Remembering Balasaheb Thackeray ji on his 12th death anniversary. My thoughts are with Uddhav Thackeray ji, Aditya and the entire Shiv Sena family," he said in a post on X. Born on January 23, 1926, in Pune, Balasaheb Thackeray had begun his professional career as a cartoonist with the English-language daily 'The Free Press Journal'. He later quit his professional job and founded the Shiv Sena in 1966 to advocate for the interests of the people of Maharashtra, particularly in Mumbai's political and professional landscape. Thackeray was also the founder of the Marathi-language newspaper 'Saamana'. Despite his significant influence in politics, he did not hold any official positions during his political career. (ANI) Two hospitals in the Columbia area of South Carolina recently received the highest mark possible in the fall safety grades released by a medical watchdog group. Most Midlands medical facilities repeated the solid ratings they received in the last scores, which were released this spring. The newest biannual ranking shows that both Prisma Health Baptist Parkridge and Prisma Health Baptist again can be considered among the safest hospitals in South Carolina. They retained their As from the spring ranking, while another area hospital in that medical chain Prisma Health Tuomey had its grade improve in the latest ranking. Since 2012, the Leapfrog Group has published Hospital Safety Scores twice a year once in the spring and once during the fall to create transparency in the U.S. health system. The rating is focused on errors, accidents, injuries and infections, the group said on its website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Based on this criteria, Columbia and Lexington hospitals received two A grades, two Bs and two Cs for the fall. Those include: Prisma Health Baptist Parkridge repeated its score from the spring ranking of A. Prisma Health Baptist repeated its score from the spring ranking of A. Lexington Medical Center repeated its score from the spring ranking of B. Prisma Health Richland repeated its score from the spring ranking of B. MUSC Health Columbia Medical Center Northeast repeated its score from the spring ranking of C. The facility was formerly Providence Health Northeast. MUSC Health Columbia Medical Center Downtown repeated its score from the spring ranking of C. The facility was formerly Providence Health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three other hospitals in the Midlands received an A, while another got a grade after failing to qualify for the spring ranking. MUSC Health Kershaw Medical Center repeated its score from the spring ranking of A. McCleod Health Clarendon in Manning repeated its score from the spring ranking of A. Prisma Health Tuomey (in Sumter) saw its grade rise one letter from B in the spring ranking to A. Newberry County Memorial Hospital repeated its score from the spring ranking of B. MUSC Health Orangeburg returned to the rankings with a C score, after the hospital failed to receive a grade in the spring because of missing data, Leapfrog said. The hospital was formerly Regional Medical Center of Orangeburg and Calhoun Counties. Grading South Carolina Overall in South Carolina, of the 52 hospitals that were ranked, 21 received an A. That matches the same number to get an A grade in the spring rankings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No hospitals in the Palmetto State received an F in the fall grades. But for the second consecutive grading period, hospitals in South Carolina this time Piedmont Medical Center in Rock Hill and Tidelands Georgetown Memorial Hospital were issued D grades. Nationally, South Carolina slipped slightly as it was ranked 10th among all states, tied with Colorado. Of the hospitals in the Palmetto State, 40.4% scored an A rating. Again, that was a slight drop from the fall (42%), when South Carolina was ranked ninth in the nation. The bigger picture Utah (60.7%) remained the top-rated state in the U.S. for the third consecutive grading period. There was a four-way tie for lowest grade among Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Vermont as none had a hospital with an A grade. Upwards of 250,000 people die every year from hospital errors, injuries, accidents, and infections, the Leapfrog Group said. Its up to everyone to make sure that patient safety is the No. 1 priority at every hospital across the United States. Some hospitals have hidden dangers, but there are things you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leapfrog said it graded about 3,000 hospitals nationwide this fall. Preventable deaths and harm in hospitals have been a major policy concern for decades. So, it is good news that Leapfrogs latest Safety Grades reveal that hospitals across the country are making notable gains in patient safety, saving countless lives, Leapfrog President and CEO Leah Binder said on the groups website. Next, we need hospitals to accelerate this progress because no one should have to die from a preventable error in a hospital. Leapfrog said more than 500 people will die today because of a preventable hospital error, and every year 1 of 31 patients will develop a preventable infection while in the hospital. You should never refuse care in an emergency because of a hospitals safety grade, Leapfrog said. But talk with a doctor about the best hospital for planned, elective procedures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Leapfrogs study shows that patients at D and F hospitals face a greater risk of dying than those at hospitals graded A. We know A hospitals do a better job at preventing errors, Leapfrog previously said. If your local hospital rates below an A, talk with your doctor at that hospital and urge them to improve their safety. Making the grade The Leapfrog Group said 22 measures are used to generate hospital safety grades, and it reports on five patient experience measures that have a direct impact on patient safety outcomes: nurse communication, doctor communication, staff responsiveness, communication about medicine and discharge information. The Leapfrog safety grade is divided into two domains: Process/Structural Measures and Outcome Measures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Process Measures represent how often a hospital gives patients recommended treatment for a given medical condition or procedure. For example, Responsiveness of hospital staff looks at patients feedback on how long it takes for a staff member to respond when they request help. Structural Measures represent the environment in which patients receive care. For example, Doctors order medications through a computer represents whether a hospital uses a special computerized system to prevent errors when prescribing medications. Outcome Measures represent what happens to a patient while receiving care. For example, Dangerous object left in patients body measures how many times a patient undergoing surgery had a dangerous foreign object, such as a sponge or tool, left in their body. The Process Measures include: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Computerized Physician Order Entry Bar Code Medication Administration ICU Physician Staffing Leadership Structures and Systems Culture Measurement, Feedback & Intervention Nursing Workforce Hand Hygiene Nurse Communication Doctor Communication Staff Responsiveness Communication about Medicines Discharge Information The Outcome Measures include: Foreign Object Retained Air Embolism Falls and Trauma CLABSI CAUTI SSI: Colon MRSA C. Diff. Death Rate among Surgical Inpatients with Serious Treatable Conditions Patient safety and adverse events composite SOURCE: Leapfrog Medical Group Seattle homicide detectives arrested a suspect who they believe was involved in a shooting that killed someone Saturday night in the citys University District. Shortly after 10 Saturday night, the Seattle Police Department received a 911 call about a shooting on Brooklyn Avenue NE near My Favorite Deli in the citys University District, Detective Brian Pritchard with SPD said. When officers arrived at the intersection, they found a 31-year-old man with a gunshot wound in the chest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Medics with Seattle Fire went to the scene and gave him first aid. Unfortunately, the man died. Homicide detectives went to the intersection, and after a preliminary investigation, found a 40-year-old man who they believed to be involved in the shooting. Detectives took him to SPD headquarters for an interview. They are working to determine what circumstances led to the incident. The investigation is ongoing. If anyone has information about this incident, please call SPD Violent Crimes Tip Line at (206) 233-5000. Update: Chief of Ormond Beach police Jesse Godfrey released this statement earlier Sunday: Earlier today, just before noon, our officers responded to a report of a missing child at Central Park off Fleming Avenue. A father was at the park with his three young children, all under the age of 5, when one of them, 4-year-old Waylon Childs, went missing. As the Chief of Police for Ormond Beach, I want to assure you that we are doing everything within our power to find Waylon. This search is a true team effort, with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Sheriffs Office, and local law enforcement from neighboring cities all working closely with us to conduct a thorough and exhaustive search. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our search teams are covering all areason the ground, in the air, and in the waterand we will not rest until we exhaust all options and have answers on Waylons whereabouts. If you have any information, no matter how small it may seem, please contact us immediately. Your support and vigilance can make all the difference. The number to call is 1-888-356-4774 to leave a tip. Previous Story: Police in Ormond Beach are searching for a missing 4-year-old boy. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement said Waylon Childs was last seen in the area of 600 block of Fleming Avenue in Ormond Beach. He was last seen wearing a maroon shirt, maroon sweatpants, and gray shoes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Law enforcement said to check areas with water. Childs is 3 feet and 3 inches tall and has brown hair and brown eyes Anyone who knows his whereabouts is asked to call the Ormond Beach Police Department at 386-677-0731 or 911. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. A series of explosions rang out in Mykolaiv due to a Russian drone attack on the city on the night of 16-17 November. Reports indicate that residential buildings have been damaged and civilians injured. Source: Mykolaiv Mayor Oleksandr Sienkevych on Telegram; Vitalii Kim, Head of Mykolaiv Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram Quote: "Explosions were heard in Mykolaiv. The [Ukrainian] Air Force reports a threat of kamikaze drones to the city. The air raid continues!" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Around 05:00, Sienkevych reported explosions in the city once again. Kim noted that emergency services had been receiving calls after the Russian attack. Updated: At 06:03, Sienkevych added that Russian forces had once again attacked civilian infrastructure and a residential area. Civilians are reported to have been injured. Support UP or become our patron! On the morning of 17 November, several Russian drones may have violated Moldovan airspace, yet radar did not detect them. Source: Prima Sursa, governmental Telegram channel, as reported by European Pravda Quote: "Moldova's competent authorities were monitoring this massive attack. Border patrols in Valea Perjei, Tudora, Crocmaz, and Olanest discovered explosives in neighbouring Moldovan territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Larga, Briceni district, they saw a missile on the Ukrainian side, and a Groznita resident reported to have spotted two drone-like aircraft at an altitude of about 100 metres. They disappeared from sight above the Rotunda and Halahora de Sus," the statement said. The government said that Moldovan radars did not record drones entering its airspace. "Such devices are launched at low altitudes, so that the Ministry of Defence's radars cannot detect them. We advise everyone to remain calm because no aircraft were reported to have crashed on Moldovan soil. If you observe strange objects or aerial vehicles, you should immediately alert the proper authorities," the government urged. On the night of 16-17 November, Russian forces launched a combined missile and drone attack on Ukraine's energy sector facilities with 210 missiles and UAVs on the night of 16-17 November. Ukrainian air defence units have destroyed 144 of them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On 10 November, two drones were discovered in Moldova, in the Causeni district and Riscani district. Following this incident, the Moldovan Foreign Ministry summoned Russian Ambassador Oleg Ozerov on 11 November. Moldovan police forces later discovered a third drone on the outskirts of Cosernita village. Moldovan officials earlier reported the recovery of drone wreckage following Russia's air attacks on Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! A family is heartbroken after one of their loved ones was found shot to death in her wrecked car in an alleyway in South Los Angeles. The Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department states that deputies were called to the 2000 block of Century Boulevard near Wilton Place at 12:46 a.m. Sunday on reports of a shooting. Upon arriving at the scene, they discovered a woman who had been shot. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an update, LASD said that they arrived at the scene and found Los Angeles Police Department officers had gotten there first. They were containing the scene and told deputies that the original call for service was regarding a crash. [The LAPD officers] observed a deceased female suffering a gunshot wound [who was] seated in a vehicle that had collided with a concrete foundation, deputies said. Investigators learned a traffic collision with injuries was originally reported to LAPDwhen officers and the L.A. City Fire Department arrived on scene, they observed the victim in the drivers seat of the vehicle which had crashed into a concrete foundation in the alley. Video shows deputies investigating a white Mercedes sedan that was blocked off in the alley. 4 shot, 1 stabbed after Inland Empire house party turns violent Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect remains outstanding as of Monday morning, and no description was provided by authorities. A motive for the shooting is unknown, and no further details surrounding the shooting were released in the LASD update. Police at the scene of a deadly shooting in an alley in South L.A. on Nov. 17, 2024. (KTLA) Police at the scene of a deadly shooting in an alley in South L.A. on Nov. 17, 2024. (KTLA) Video shows deputies investigating a white Mercedes sedan that was blocked off in the alley. (KTLA) While authorities did not identify the victim, her family told KTLA 5s Omar Lewis that the decedent is 21-year-old Lanai Ariyana Dees. The family of the young woman, who resided in Inglewood, is still processing the sudden death and called the shooting a senseless tragedy. She was an amazing person, said Jordan Dees, Lanais brother. She was very sweet and very kind. Lanai Ariyana Dees as seen in a family photo. Lanai Ariyana Dees as seen in a family photo. Jordan said his sister was found with gunshot wounds in her car, which had crashed prior to the shooting. As for why she was in South L.A., Lanais brother says she was possibly visiting a friend, but doesnt know why her car crashed and who would commit such a heinous crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We just know that she knew someone over here, and next thing you know, she got killed, Jordan said. She was in her car, so we dont even know what happenedthe car is wrecked and she was shot. Police arrest Santa Monica man for allegedly killing his elderly mother Jordan, through tears, then made a simple request to the public. She didnt deserve what happened to her at all, he said. Please help. Please call the police, call me if you know meif you know anything, please dont stay silent, because we have to get the person that did this. We have to. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department by calling their Homicide Bureau (323-890-5500). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To provide information anonymously, call Crime Stoppers (1-800-222-8477) or visit their website. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. (Bloomberg) -- Weeks after the start of her government, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum is giving signs that shell come down on the side of the US over China, if shes forced to choose. Most Read from Bloomberg Whether thats enough to prevent Donald Trump from sweeping her up in the punitive tariffs hes threatened in his second term is another matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Sheinbaum attends the Group of 20 summit in Brazil, her fellow leaders will be keen to sound out the new president on her role on the front line of what risks becoming a global trade war. After all, shes the first Mexican leader to show up at a G-20 since 2018 when Trump was last in power after her famously travel-averse predecessor Andres Manuel Lopez Orbador habitually sent his foreign minister in his place. Her schedule in Brazil suggests two things: she doesnt want to get on the wrong side of Trump and is avoiding openly taking sides. There are one-on-ones with eight leaders, but neither Joe Biden nor Xi Jinping are among them, though Mexicos foreign minister said China had asked for a meeting. Sheinbaum is walking a fine line as she shows a willingness to cooperate with the US on topics like curbing migration and cooling relations with China, without coming across as a pushover. The reality, though, is that Washington is Mexicos No. 1 trade partner and Beijing comes a long way behind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a contrast to the G-20 host, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, whos yet to place a call to Trump and is opening the door to a rush of Chinese investment in Brazil. Brazils trade with China is already more than double the volume of that with the US. Since the summer, Sheinbaums cabinet has been talking about the need to reduce Chinese imports, which account for about 20% of the national total. Finance Minister Rogelio Ramirez de la O said that if North America produced 10% of what it currently imports from China, Mexicos economy would grow 1.4% and US gross domestic product by 0.8%. The job gains, he said, would be 600,000 for the US, 560,000 for Mexico and 150,000 for Canada. Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrards office has been working with the main companies that import from China including electronics manufacturer Foxconn, chipmaker Intel Corp., carmakers General Motors Co. and Stellantis NV and logistics group DHL to identify which products could be manufactured in Mexico, according to local newspaper Reforma. The plan would also seek to keep out Malaysian, Vietnamese and Taiwanese goods, Reforma said. The question is whether Trump sees these initiatives as an outstretched hand or as part of Mexicos response to the Biden administrations existing line on China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The increasing pressure of the United States in Mexico against China is generating a lot of uncertainties for already established investments, said Enrique Dussel Peters, the coordinator of the Center for Chinese-Mexican Studies at the National Autonomous University of Mexico. In the short term, firms will have enormous problems to substitute for Chinese goods and parts. Trump has threatened to turn the planned 2026 review of the US-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement into an outright renegotiation, and slap extra tariffs on Mexico. The pact and its predecessor, NAFTA, have been a boon to Mexicos manufacturing sector that now employs some 5 million people. But Trump wants to see Mexico close its doors to Chinese automakers who might export to the US. Hes threatened machinery giant Deere & Co. with tariffs if it moves a plant to Mexico, potentially throwing a wrench into the nearshoring process that has promised to bring millions of investment dollars to Mexico. Ebrard, who was foreign minister during Trumps first term and will lead the USMCA review, has argued that it wouild be a lose-lose situation, saying that tariffs will hurt US companies operating in Mexico, especially in the auto industry. Already Honda said that new tariffs on cars imported into the US from Mexico could impact the delivery of thousands of vehicles, while billionaire Trump adviser Elon Musk has said hes holding off on building his new Tesla Inc. plant in Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a development thats not bypassed Beijing, with an op-ed in the state-backed Global Times touting the vast potential for economic cooperation between China and Mexico. If US politicians continue to place pressure on Mexico and try to undermine normal economic cooperation, it will certainly harm Mexicos economic potential, it said in October. Campaign Rudeness Sheinbaum bristled against Trump when he was on the campaign trail, calling his language rude in a post on X after he spoke in dismissive terms of his prior negotiations with Mexico. She hasnt rushed to get to him like other leaders who headed straight to Mar-a-Lago. While encouraging Mexicans to go to their consulates amid concerns about his deportation plan, she also told people to stay calm. Shes insisted that the US-Mexico relationship will be very good and described their first phone call as cordial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once the two meet, well continue the high-level dialogue weve had on issues of fentanyl, migration and the economy, which is fundamental to strengthen our economic relationship, she said to press in Mexico City on Nov. 13. Officials in Sheinbaums cabinet have tried to remind Trump that the USMCA was a good deal for him, too. After all, he signed it into law himself in 2020. Mexicos previous president, known as AMLO, was an unlikely fan of Trump, and Sheinbaum is his chosen successor. And while AMLO made the trip to meet with Xi last year in San Francisco, their agreement to crack down on shipments of chemicals used to make illegal drugs was another effort to appease the US. It was in any case nothing like the frequent meetings with Xi of his predecessor, Enrique Pena Nieto, and his celebration of Chinas purchases of Mexican pork and tequila. The last time Trump threatened tariffs, in 2019, Mexico readily agreed to a crackdown on migration. This year, its convoluted plan to apprehend and bus migrants to southern Mexican states has helped bring US-Mexico border crossings down by about 76% since December, according to data from the Mexican government. In April, it put tariffs on a host of goods from China, partly in response to US concerns about dumping of reduced-cost steel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That leaves Mexico figuring out how much further to go to appease its irritable neighbor. Chinese companies, too, have continued to set up shop in Mexico. Electric vehicle maker BYD Co. said this month its evaluating locations in Mexico for a plant to serve the Latin American market, and other Chinese suppliers have set up in industrial parks near the US border. Mexico did shun one Chinese company, Ganfeng Lithium, after AMLOs government nationalized lithium mining, depriving it of a project valued at more than $1 billion. But it has not, until now, stood in the way of other Chinese investment. All in all, it seems like Sheinbaum wants to avoid any kind of fireworks. Her team has turned to the data, which is what people expect from the Mexican leader, who has a PhD in energy engineering. She said earlier this month that Mexico was working on reports outlining the contributions of Mexicans abroad in fields such as medicine and construction, and another on USMCAs benefits for the US a methodical, if cheeky, strategy. Were always going to defend Mexico, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement --With assistance from Sam Hornblower, Amy Stillman and Carolina Millan. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Nov. 17 (UPI) -- A group of men who allegedly assaulted a young couple in Brooklyn last month in what police are investigating as an anti-Palestinian hate crime still have not been identified. The NYPD is seeking the public's assistance in identifying a group of at least four seemingly Jewish men who were filmed making anti-Palestinian remarks in a verbal dispute with the young couple that led to the victims being physically assaulted. The dispute occurred on Oct. 25, minutes before midnight, on the Flatbush Avenue Extension between Tech Place and Myrtle Avenue in downtown Brooklyn. During the dispute, one of the suspects reportedly shouted "F--- Palestine." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said that at least one person in the group then punched the 31-year-old male victim and 32-year-old female victim in their faces before fleeing the scene. The young woman suffered a serious eye injury, and the man suffered a cut to his face. Both victims were transported by ambulance to New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital to be treated for their injuries. Hate crimes and incidents of Islamophobia against Arab and Muslim populations in the United States have exploded in the past year since Israel began its war against Gaza and Lebanon. The Council on American-Islamic Relations, a nonprofit civil rights group, tracked 4,951 incidents nationwide from January to June 2024, a 69% increase over the same period in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, in New Jersey, activists with a group organizing under the name Palestine Solidarity said in an emailed news release that one of its pro-Palestine protesters was allegedly "clubbed with a flashlight." The group had gathered outside of an event marketing homes for sale by the firm My Israel Home, which promotes the sale of properties in the illegal Givat HaMatos settlement in occupied East Jerusalem when a group of men allegedly attacked the victim. "One attacker with a black leather jacket and ski mask pepper-sprayed me," the victim said in a statement provided by the activist group. "As my vision was already impaired, the other attackers shone a flashlight in my eyes, attempted to tackle me down a hill, and struck me in the head with a flashlight, resulting in blunt force trauma to the right side of my head." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The group alleged that police in the city of West Orange then intervened, and the victim was advised to seek medical attention. Paramedics who responded recommended that the victim get stitches at the local hospital. Last month, CAIR said it welcomed an indictment against a Manhattan woman on hate crime charges for allegedly pepper spraying a Muslim Uber driver in July. On Sunday, Australia, Japan, and the United States agreed to deepen their military cooperation in response to China's growing military influence, Azernews reports citing the VoA. Australias Defense Minister Richard Marles hosted U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Japans Defense Minister Gen Nakatani for a trilateral meetingthe first of its kind to be held in Australia. Under the new agreement, Japan's Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade, a specialized marine unit, will be stationed in Darwin, Australia, to train alongside U.S. and Australian forces on a regular basis. "This is a significant commitment to the region and the world, showing the dedication of our three countries to work together," said Marles, emphasizing the importance of building interoperability between the nations' military forces. Lloyd Austin highlighted that the partnership would enhance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance activities, strengthening security efforts across the Indo-Pacific region. He praised the trilateral alliance for advancing a vision of a "free and open Indo-Pacific" and reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to bolstering regional alliances. Australia, in particular, has been increasingly aligned with the U.S. in its efforts to bolster military capabilities in the face of a rising China. Along with the strengthening of its surface fleet, Australia is planning to acquire nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS agreement with the U.S. and UK, further solidifying its military ties with the West. While there has been concern that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump may alter or abandon the AUKUS pact in favor of his "America First" foreign policy approach, Australian officials expressed strong confidence that the agreement will remain intact. Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted the Indian diaspora in Nigeria on Sunday upon his arrival on the first leg of his three-nation visit. In a series of posts on X, PM Modi shared pictures of his welcome by the Indian diaspora in Nigeria and said that it was "heartwarming." "Heartwarming to see the Indian community in Nigeria extending such a warm and vibrant welcome!" he said. https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1857897723975835829 PM Modi also highlighted that the Marathi community in Nigeria expressed joy at Marathi being conferred the status of a Classical Language, during his interaction with the Indian diaspora. https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1857900789458416065 PM Modi signed and hailed a painting of him made by a member, Ritu Agrawal, "The PM said that my drawing was very good and he took the pen from me and signed the drawing. He was very happy." Indian diaspora was buzzing with excitement to finally interact with PM Modi upon his arrival. Dhirendra Singh Chouhan, another member of the Indian diaspora, reflected the same excitement. "We have been waiting for this day for a long time. We gave PM the message of how much pride we are feeling because of his visit. We hope that by his visit India-Nigeria ties will improve further," Dhirendra Singh Chouhan, another member of the Indian diaspora said. People from distant parts of Nigeria travelled to take a glimpse of PM Modi. Jitendra Pandey is one of those members of the Indian diaspora who travelled from Laos to Abuja. "I came from Lagos to meet PM Modi. We felt very happy after meeting him. There is a lot of excitement among Nigerians as well because of PM Modi's arrival," he said. MEA also shared pictures of the welcome extended by Nigeria and the Indian diaspora there to PM Modi. PM Modi was warmly welcomed by Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, Minister for Federal Capital Territory upon his arrival in Abuja, the capital city of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Minister Wike presented PM Modi with the 'Key to the City' of Abuja. The key symbolises the trust and honour bestowed on the PM by the people of Nigeria. The Prime Minister is scheduled to hold bilateral discussions in Nigeria to strengthen the ties between both countries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a three-nation tour to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana scheduled from November 17 to November 21. PM Modi issued a statement indicating his first stop in Nigeria, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's invitation, aimed at strengthening strategic ties between both countries. "At the invitation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this will be my first visit to Nigeria, which is our close partner in the West African region. My visit will be an opportunity to build upon our Strategic Partnership that is based on shared belief in democracy and pluralism. I am also eagerly looking forward to meeting the Indian community and friends from Nigeria who have sent me warm welcome messages in Hindi," the statement said. PM Modi will be heading to Brazil for the 19th G20 Summit, scheduled to take place from November 18 to 19. As a Troika member, India will play a significant role in shaping the agenda, building on the momentum from its own G20 presidency. Brazil is expected to maintain the focus on Global South priorities, ensuring continuity and progress on key issues. PM Modi's final destination is Guyana, where he'll make history as the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the country in over five decades. During his visit, PM Modi will address the Guyanese Parliament and pay respects to the Indian diaspora, who migrated to Guyana over 185 years ago. (ANI) Sen.-elect Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) on Sunday warned of the risk of politicizing the military in an interview on ABC Newss This Week. ABC Newss Martha Raddatz was talking to the Michigan Democrat about President-elect Trumps pick for Defense secretary, former Fox News host Pete Hegseth, saying he has also said that Any general that was involved in any of the DEI woke crap has got to go.' She then asked Slotkin if she thinks the president-elect is set to fire top generals who he considers woke.' Slotkin responded that she believes theyve been very clear that theyre putting together some sort of panel thats gonna look at generals, people who have served their nation their entire lives, over multiple administrations, Democrat and Republican, in combat, they are now openly talking about dismissing them like some sort of kangaroo court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can imagine the stress in the Pentagon about that, but also in the future of who we are as a military, right? Slotkin added. Our military and the role of the military is in the Constitution for a reason, and I think were really at risk of politicizing the military in a way that we cant put the genie back in the bottle. Slotkins fellow Democrats have criticized Hegseth as Trumps selection to lead the Department of Defense. Rep. Pat Ryan (D-N.Y.), who served in the Army, has said that Hegseth is not a serious person and a serious pick. Another New York Democrat, Rep. Dan Goldman, has said he was very disturbed by Trumps choice of Hegseth for the top role in the Pentagon. Im shocked, truly, and this is exactly what we worried about when we warned about Donald Trump, which is that he is going to appoint unqualified loyalists to shape this government into his own personal fiefdom, Goldman said earlier this week. While serving as a Fox News host and conservative commentator, Hegseth mapped out policy positions aimed at pushing back on efforts to promote diversity and open opportunities for women and LGBTQ service members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Hill has reached out to the Trump transition team for comment. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. BRATISLAVA, Slovakia (AP) Thousands of protesters gathered in Slovakias capital on Sunday, the 35th anniversary of the Velvet Revolution that brought an end to decades of communist rule in Czechoslovakia, to oppose the policies of populist Prime Minister Robert Fico. The protest united the opposition, including the liberal Progressive Slovakia, pro-business Freedom and Solidarity and the conservative Christian Democrats who all said Fico's a threat to democracy. The government takes our freedom and democracy, a banner in the crowd read. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Slovakia is and will be part of the Western civilization, a conservative political veteran Frantisek Miklosko, who was one of the Slovak leaders in 1989, told the crowd at downtown SNP square. We dont want anyone to move us toward Moscow. Czechoslovakia peacefully split into the Czech Republic and Slovakia in 1993. Freedom and Solidarity leader Branislav Grohling said Fico is leading the country to an authoritarian regime like in Russia and communist China. Michal Simecka, the head of Progressive Slovakia, which is currently the most popular party in the country, said the opposition will do what it takes to protect freedom and democracy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Slovakia is and will be a nation of free people. And free people wont be silent, he said. Fico and his leftist Smer (Direction) party won last years won parliamentary elections on a pro-Russia and anti-American platform. His government has pushed through a plan to overhaul public broadcasting a move critics said would give the government full control of public television and radio. That, along with a move to amend a penal code and eliminate a special anti-graft prosecutor, has led opponents to worry that he would lead Slovakia down a more autocratic path, following the direction of Hungary under populist Prime Minister Viktor Orban. His views on Russias war on Ukraine and other issues sharply differ from the European mainstream. Fico ended his countrys military aid for Ukraine, opposes EU sanctions on Russia, wants to block Ukraine from joining NATO and plans a trip to Russia. Family, friends and community members gathered at a 2019 vigil in remembrance of Stonechild Chiefstick, who was shot to death by a Poulsbo, Washington, police officer after a confrontation earlier that year. Chiefsticks case is one of five under review by the new Washington Office of Independent Investigations, which is considering whether to open a new investigation. (Ashley Ann/Kitsap Daily News) An hour before the fireworks went off at Poulsbo, Washingtons annual Fourth of July celebration in 2019, three police officers approached Stonechild Chiefstick, a citizen of the Chippewa Cree Tribe of Rocky Boy Reservation and father of six. The officers had received a report that Chiefstick was threatening people with a screwdriver. Less than 10 seconds later, following a brief confrontation, Officer Craig Keller shot Chiefstick twice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An hour later, the celebration returned to normal. The fireworks went off as planned. The Kitsap County Sheriffs Office investigated. And as is overwhelmingly common with police shootings, local prosecutors declined to charge Keller, who is white, with a crime. In 2021, Washington lawmakers created the nations first state-funded office to investigate police killings like Chiefsticks, providing an extra layer of accountability for deadly use-of-force incidents that disproportionately impact Native Americans but that are rarely prosecuted. Three years since the legislation passed, however, the office still hasnt officially launched any investigation. Chiefsticks case is one of five put under review by the office. But that means little to Trishandra Pickup, who shared four children with Chiefstick. They need to do an investigation, a review is not enough, Pickup said. Stonechild Chiefstick, a citizen of the Chippewa Cree Tribe of Rocky Boy Reservation, was shot and killed after a confrontation with police in Poulsbo, Washington, in 2019. His case is one of five that is under review by the newly formed Office of Independent Investigations in Washington state. (Courtesy of Trishandra Pickup) Legislation passed in 2021 as part of a spate of police reform laws in the wake of the killing of George Floyd created a new agency, the Office of Independent Investigations, and tasked it with reviewing past fatal uses of force, then conducting full investigations in some cases, as well as investigating new cases involving serious use of force. The office was meant to use civilian investigators to add transparency and accountability in cases where people challenge the use of deadly force and subsequent investigations by law enforcement and prosecutors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But reform advocates who pushed the legislation are criticizing the offices slow pace in opening investigations, its focus on hiring investigators from within the world of law enforcement, and its failure to begin even monitoring uses of force in the three years since the law was passed. The agency will begin investigating current use-of-force complaints for the first time in December, in just one of six regions in the state. Families affected by police violence have been waiting too long for independent investigations, Dominic Campese, spokesperson for the Washington Coalition for Police Accountability, said in a written statement. Three of the five cases under review by the office involve the deaths of Native Americans. Native Americans encounter disproportionate police violence in Washington and across the country, with statistics showing they die at the hands of law enforcement at a rate five times higher than whites nationally. After Chiefsticks death, Pickup filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the city of Poulsbo, alleging negligence, excessive force and inadequate training, which it settled for $2 million in 2021. The shooting caused outrage in the local Indigenous community and strained relations between the city of Poulsbo and the nearby Suquamish Tribe, where Chiefstick had kinship ties and long resided. Poulsbo, a predominantly white town of 12,000, directly abuts the Suquamish Tribe Reservation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pickup sees the shooting and the response as representative of systemic racism against Native Americans. None of this would be happening if Native lives were important in this country, Pickup said. A slow start Only a small percentage of law enforcement officers are convicted in connection with killing a civilian in the line of duty it was roughly 1% nationwide in 2022, according to the police data nonprofit Mapping Police Violence. Experts say thats true for a variety of reasons. Laws protect police officers right to use force to protect themselves and others, and the vast majority of uses of force are deemed justified by the involved agency, but critics also cite bias in internal investigations by police and prosecutors who often work closely with the officers they must investigate. Investigations into fatal use-of-force cases have long been criticized by police reform advocates as lacking rigor and independence, given that they are carried out by the officers own agency or a neighboring one. Charging decisions are made by local prosecutors who work closely with police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Washington, there have been roughly 200 fatal police shootings since 2015, according to the nonprofit Alliance for Gun Responsibility. In 2018, Washington voters passed an initiative creating regional teams made up of local law enforcement officers to investigate police killings, but reform advocates continued to push for more independence in those investigations. For us to feel safe we need to have a body to investigate those that we must trust, said Waldo Waldron-Ramsey, political director for the Washington Community Action Network and former regional director for the NAACP who served on the task force that recommended the creation of the Office of Independent Investigations. Part of public safety is that the public trusts those who are doing the job and who are responsible for our safety law enforcement and prosecution, Waldron-Ramsey said. In the aftermath of the police killing of Floyd in 2020, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee convened a task force to examine independent oversight of uses of force. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The task forces primary recommendation was the creation of an independent state agency to investigate police uses of force. Eventually, legislation creating the office tasked it with probing past police killings in cases where new evidence is presented and taking over the process of investigating deadly and serious uses-of-force by local law enforcement departments. Washington Gov. Jay Inslee throws two thumbs up after signing a package of police reform bills at the Eastside Community Center in Tacoma in 2021. One of the bills created the Office of Independent Investigations to review deadly police uses of force. (Tony Overman/The News Tribune via AP) The agency is unique in the nation as a state-funded, fully independent agency with investigative powers, and it has emphasized that it will be overseen by civilians and employ civilian investigators. Although other states like New York have agencies with independent investigative functions, the Washington offices mandate goes further by empowering it to look at past cases when new evidence arises. Other states like California employ their Department of Justice in certain high-profile cases, but typically only at the request of local agencies or the behest of the states attorney general. Still, in the three years since its inception, the Washington offices effects have been muted. The agency cites staffing shortages and the difficulty of building the agency up from scratch as the primary challenges. Hector Castro, community relations and communications director for the Office of Independent Investigations, said the agency has had a lengthy to-do list since its inception, and that theres no set timeline for the agencys review process but that it involves a comprehensive and thorough consideration of all relevant information in the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The office is under the states general budget and has struggled to secure funding since its inception. Its $23.9 million budget through 2025 is far less than the $67 million it requested. The agency has been slow to hire staff, according to Castro, and only secured a director former prosecutor, defense attorney and judge Roger Rogoff shortly before it was originally supposed to begin investigations in July 2022. Since then, it has proceeded with the painstaking process of hiring and training investigators, leaving it with limited staff to prepare to accept current use-of-force complaints and deal with past cases, according to Castro. Reform advocates expressed concern that multiple investigators with the office have worked in a law enforcement capacity in the last 24 months, which Campese said is contrary to the spirit of the legislation creating the agency. The agency has also faced challenges with restrictions on the materials its investigators can use. After a use-of-force incident, law enforcement agencies compel officers to make statements about the incident, known as Garrity statements. However, these statements and any evidence from the internal investigation based on them cannot be used in the independent investigation to protect officers against self-incrimination. As a result, the agency has to rely mainly on other evidence, which may be biased or incomplete, for its case reviews. One thing that weve learned at this agency as were starting out is you need to be able to adapt, Castro said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tensions remain between reform advocates, legislators and law enforcement groups over independent investigations. Reformers want to add an additional layer of accountability to the process by creating an independent state prosecutor to handle use-of-force cases, rather than local elected prosecutors, who have opposed what they perceive as a possibly unconstitutional circumvention of their jurisdiction. Law enforcement groups also have opposed the prospect of an independent prosecutor. We take significant issue with the idea of spending $12 million to hire two dozen people whose sole job it is to charge police officers with murder, James McMahan, policy director for the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs, said in 2023 testimony against the bill. So far, two bills that wouldve created an independent prosecutors office have died in committee. Washington Rep. Monica Stonier, D-Vancouver, who sponsored the bills, said its an important component of independent investigations into uses of force and was always envisioned to work alongside the OII, but she acknowledges obstacles remain to getting her bill through the House of Representatives. Waldron-Ramsey said that a state prosecutor would be a vital element of creating a truly accountable oversight system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We dont have trust in local prosecutors investigating police killings because they work so closely with those local law enforcement agencies, he said. Cases under review Although the office has yet to announce any official investigations, it has identified five cases that passed its initial requirements and are under full review. Three of the five victims were Native American. For a case to meet the standard for a full review, there must be new evidence that was not considered during the initial investigation, including new witnesses or photo or video evidence that was not previously considered. The review process differs from an investigation in a review, investigators are examining existing materials and the purported new evidence rather than conducting fresh interviews. In the aftermath of Chiefsticks death and before creation of the state office, Pickup and her lawyer, Gabe Galanda, met with representatives from Inslees office, asking for an independent investigation into his killing. Months passed, and no news came, so they requested and received a second meeting with the governors office, shortly after Inslee signed legislation creating the new office. Pickup said she left the second meeting feeling reassured that there would be a full, independent investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, it was referred to the agency for review. Pickup said her lawyer also referred Chiefsticks case to the office, presenting evidence of multiple new witnesses to the shooting. Police, witnesses and the familys wrongful-death lawsuit offer conflicting narratives of the confrontation between Chiefstick and Keller. Police say they went to arrest Chiefstick in the crowded festival after a woman reported he threatened someone with a screwdriver and a physical confrontation between Chiefstick and Keller occurred, causing Kellers body-worn camera to fall to the ground. Chiefsticks family members dispute that he threatened bystanders or police with the screwdriver and contend that he retreated, tripped and dropped what he was holding before Keller shot him twice. Keller later said in a statement that he feared for his life and the life of others, and that Chiefstick tried to stab him with the screwdriver. The case is still under review, and the agency cant say when it will announce a decision on an investigation. Castro says the agency stays in regular communication with families so they understand the agencys progress and decision-making. They want to try to put on a show with these reviews, Pickup said. Until they open a case and put their money where their mouth is, and do an investigation, its only talk, and Im not falling for their smoke and mirrors. The historical relationship between Native American communities and law enforcement is fraught with violence and abuse on the part of the latter, and multiple police shootings of Native Americans in Washington have outraged Indigenous communities. Data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Preventions most recent data shows Native Americans were more than five times as likely to die from police violence than whites in 2020. Apart from the Chiefstick case, the office is reviewing the police killings of Native American victims Cecil Lacy Jr. and Jacqueline Salyers. Lacy, a citizen of the Tulalip Tribe, was walking along a road on the reservation in September 2015 when police stopped him for wandering into the street, according to news reports. The street had no sidewalks. Following a brief confrontation, Snohomish County Sheriffs Deputy Charles Pendergrass tased Lacy before he and two other officers pinned Lacy to the ground. Lacy reportedly told officers, I cant breathe, while he was pinned by Pendergrass, until he became unresponsive and died. Local prosecutors declined to file charges against Pendergrass. Lacys family won a $1.75 million settlement from Snohomish County in a wrongful death lawsuit. Stonechild Chiefstick and his former partner, Trishandra Pickup, had four children together. Pickup has called for an independent state investigation into the fatal shooting of Chiefstick by police in 2019. (Photo courtesy of Trishandra Pickup) In the case of Jacqueline Salyers, a pregnant citizen of the Puyallup Tribe of Indians, police shot and killed her on Jan. 28, 2016, as she fled from them in a vehicle with her boyfriend, who was wanted by law enforcement, according to news reports. Police allege that she tried to run them over, which her family disputes. Prosecutors declined to file charges against the officers, Scott Campbell and Aaron Joseph. The Puyallup Tribe alleges that new evidence in the case demands further investigation. The state office is reviewing two additional cases. Jason Hale was shot in the back of the neck by Cpl. David Reed of the Stevens County Sheriffs Department on Aug. 19, 2015, during a confrontation where Hale was walking away; police said he pulled a handgun before the shooting but witnesses disputed that, according to news reports. On Sept. 20, 2020, Redmond Police Officer Daniel Mendoza shot Andrea Churna six times as she surrendered to police after she called 911 while in crisis. Her family settled a wrongful death suit with the city of Redmond for $7.5 million. Carrying a memory Pickup and Chiefstick have four children together. The youngest recently graduated from high school, surrounded by loving family and community members but their fathers presence was missed. Although their relationship didnt work out, Pickup said Chiefstick was a good parent, known for playing and joking with kids in the community. Now, Pickup forges on. On a recent morning, she was sitting in the living room of her home in the Suquamish Tribe Reservation making the final preparations for Halloween, when she goes all out for her kids in the neighborhood. I bought an old pizza warmer from a pizza shop, the kind that holds like four pizzas at once, and I fill it up with Costco pizza, Pickup said. A mother of six, Pickup dedicates much of her time and energy to her family, stitching homemade powwow regalia and homeschooling. She became heavily involved in the police accountability movement after Chiefsticks death, driving around Suquamish Nation in her car emblazoned with Justice for Stony on the windows. Today, she serves on the Criminal Justice Training Commission as a civilian commissioner and keeps track of Chiefsticks case. She works closely with the Washington Coalition for Police Accountability and other families affected by police violence. She juggles child care, homeschooling and advocating for Chiefstick, all while waiting on a decision from the agency. Theyre meeting with us just to meet with us because they need to, Pickup said. There is no information, theyre not giving us any information because as far as I know they dont have any information. This article was first published by InvestigateWest (investigatewest.org), an independent news nonprofit dedicated to investigative journalism in the Pacific Northwest. Alice Ford, an outdoor content creator and show host, has spent a decade centering conservationist education on her YouTube channel. She said the glut of nature photos and short videos on social media is resulting in just people wanting to see a place more than they have respect for the place. (Photo courtesy of Alice Ford) Dont pet the fluffy cows. Thats the Instagram bio tagline for the National Park Services popular account, which showcases stunning photos of the diverse terrains of the United States 431 national parks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cheeky statement, followed by a buffalo emoji, is meant to make its 6 million followers laugh, NPS social media specialist Matthew Turner says, but its also a very real warning. We want you to be really prepared to stay this distance, and be aware of your surroundings at all times, Turner said. And to know that if you dont, there are consequences where you can get hurt. Technology and the rise of social media has driven new people to visit public parks and lands, as the platforms make it easier to showcase the great outdoors. But outdoor enthusiasts and environmental conservationists say social media has also contributed to selfie tourism or the influx of visitation to specific landmarks that go viral on social media. It also can describe the behavior of those that crowd a landmark or ignore safety protocol to get the perfect shot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every year, there are incidents of people having such dangerous interactions with wildlife, or getting lost in the parks, or even losing their lives. Its hard to quantify how exactly social media influences the decision making or behavior of park visitors, but several nearly-fatal and fatal incidents have been connected to attempting to capture content. In 2018, a 29- and 30-year-old couple fell to their deaths in Yosemite National Park in California while attempting to take a photo at Taft Point. Several people have been attacked by bison in Yellowstone National Park over the last three years at least one was a tourist trying to touch a bison while recording with her phone. A selfie in and of itself can inspire others. Maybe you see a friend post from a great trip, and it inspires you to go, Philip Killbridge, CEO of NatureBridge said. But you better do it thoughtfully. You better realize that when theres a fence, its because theres loose rock on the other side, or theres a steep fall, or so many other unintended consequences. Illilouette Falls in Yosemite National Park | Susan J. Demas Loving our parks to death Killbridge runs NatureBridge, an organization that teaches young people how to explore the outdoors without technology. The organization was initially founded with the intention of exploring parks in their off-peak seasons, and teaching kids to learn more about themselves and the environment with low barriers to entry on cost and prior education. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The parks have seen a surge in visitors in the last few years, crossing more than 300 million visitors nearly each year since their centennial celebration in 2016. NatureBridge has brought more than 1 million kids through the program over its tenure and operates in Golden Gate Park in California, Olympic National Park in Washington, Prince William Forest National Park in Virginia and Yosemite. It makes a conscious effort to explore areas and trails that are outside the most popular ones, but high visitorship is putting strain on the hotels and areas surrounding the parks, and as a result, its more expensive to operate the program. The social media effect on certain areas of the parks might be evident in some data from Yosemite National Park. Many drive in, take pictures at the iconic Half Dome and El Capitan rock formations, and then they head out, Killbridge said. The focus is on documenting the visit and putting it on their checklist or bucket list, to prove that theyve done it. Youve probably heard the phrase, were loving our parks to death, Killbridge said. But the truth is, were loving certain parts of certain parks to death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cynthia Hernandez, the National Parks Systems public affairs specialist, said the agency uses social media to show examples of good environmental stewardship. Staff love and encourage new visitors to the parks, but they want them to be educated on preserving the trails, picking up trash, and learning the history and culture of where theyre visiting. We ask visitors to be adaptable and to listen to the park rangers, Hernandez said. You know, if the parking lot is full, dont drive wherever. We like to say, what is your plan B? New Hampshires public and private lands are feeling the impact from some not-so respectful visitors this year, as its peak fall foliage season a few-week stretch in late September and October is bringing an estimated 3.7 million visitors this fall, the Washington Post reported. New Hamshirians, and their neighbors in Vermont, are dealing with clogged roads, crowded hiking trails, trespassing on private property and trash left behind by their visitors, many of whom are doing so in the pursuit of the perfect fall photo. Some towns have closed roads to non-local traffic, while others have had to pay for extra patrols during on routes leading to lookouts or popular spots. One group of neighbors in Pomfret, Vermont, has raised $22,500 in a GoFundMe to save their road from the surge of influencers, with the funds planned to go toward temporary closures and increased signage, the Post reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wesley Littlefield is a Salt Lake City-based marketing manager and outdoor content creator, and the effects Killbridge described and New Englanders are experiencing are some of the many reasons hes become mindful of not overexposing certain locations. Littlefield has been posting on social media and making YouTube videos about fishing, kayaking and other outdoor adventures for a few years, and focuses on educating people on leave no trace principles. He loves exploring the Southwest, but some of his favorite trails and natural wonders have become overpopulated after gaining attention on social media. Horseshoe Bend in Arizona is a prime example, he said, as is Antelope Canyon, which sits on Navajo land. What was once a peaceful overlook is now packed with people looking to snap that perfect shot, often at the expense of the environment around them, he said of Horseshoe Bend. Youll notice things like litter, soil erosion and even permanent damage to local ecosystems. In extreme cases, wildlife habitats can be disrupted or destroyed, which takes away from the natural beauty and balance of these areas. Death Valley National Park | Susan J. Demas Responsible exploration Littlefield said he loves that technology has allowed people to discover new places and share experiences. But carelessness in certain areas has made him more conservative with geotagging certain areas or fragile locations. Its his way of protecting them while still sharing his love for the outdoors, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We want these places to remain as beautiful and untouched as possible for future visitors, Littlefield said. Alice Ford is another content creator who is sharing her outdoor adventures online as a way to educate others about conservation. She hosts a show on PBS called Alices Adventures on Earth, has a masters degree in environmental management and has been making Youtube videos showcasing outdoor traveling, hiking and sustainable living for about a decade. Her bread and butter is in longer-form content where she gets to place the focus on education. I think theres an issue with these three-to-10 second videos showcasing a place, Ford said. Where youre just seeing the most beautiful part, and youre not learning anything about it, and youre then not doing any research. And youre just showing up because you want to get the exact same shot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Ford travels, shes looking for those less-busy places, not just to discover somewhere new to her, but also to not contribute to the demand of places that dont have infrastructure to support an onslaught of visitors. Pulling off the side of a road inundated with visitors may not just cause traffic chaos, but also could damage wildlife and road infrastructure, she said. I think also another thing that Ive seen globally is just people wanting to see a place more than they have respect for the place, Ford said. There are very real physical dangers to jumping head-first into a hike or a trip without proper preparation, Ford said. Shes seen a rise in visitors to national parks and other places around the world attempting grueling hikes or exploring dangerous areas in extreme heat without the right footwear, food or water. Two people died during this summers brutal heat waves in Death Valley National Park in California, including a 57-year-old man who attempted a short hike on a day when temperatures reached nearly 120 degrees, which can quickly cause serious dehydration and heat stroke. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Michigan, The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore a state park featuring miles of sand and bluffs has a dune climb thats been well-documented on social media. The hike includes 3.5 miles of sandy, steep terrain and can take three or four hours. The Lakeshore gets an average of 1.5 to 1.7 million visitors a year, and reached its peak visitorship in 2020 and 2021, Emily Sunblade the parks lead education ranger said. The climb has long been a rite of passage, but the park rangers said visitors have been recognizing the location because of social media posts of the famous sign outlining the $3,000 fee incurred for being rescued if you get stuck. The trail down to the Sleeping Bear National Dunes lakeshore | Susan J. Demas The park instituted a preventative search and rescue program where volunteers stand at the top of the dune and check in with visitors before they attempt the hike in order to quell the strain on local rescue resources, which are performed by township emergency services. The volunteers ask visitors if they have enough water, and if theyre prepared for it to take two or more hours. It dramatically lowered the number of rescues needed, Sunblade said. The social media posts we are seeing are having a positive impact as people share their experience of what the hike was like, and what they wish they knew before starting, Sunblade said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As much as social media has the ability to overexpose and overwhelm one area with visitors, it remains an essential tool for the Parks Service and for content creators who aim to educate others on responsible visitorship. Its an important component of the digital toolbox for the Parks Service, Turner told States Newsroom. Their online profiles allow them to engage in real time with visitors and connect with people around the world. They use it as a forum to ask and answer questions, respond to outreach and share resources. And they do lean on memes and humor to get peoples attention and have people learn without maybe realizing theyre learning, Turner said. There are ways to add a photo-worthy spot to your travels, if you do so responsibly, Ford said. She suggests trying to research whats nearby those locations, and if the local community has been negatively impacted by visitors. If theres not enough restaurants, stores and accommodations, tourism may hurt the community or put a strain on its resources. Her hope is that folks are making informed decisions about their travel plans and considering the impact that social media may have on driving them to visit. I wish people would have more respect, not only for each other, but for the places that we visit, Ford said. And to just think a little bit more before we act in general, like whether thats the time youre taking to take a selfie at a popular destination, or the place in which were walking. SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) A local business in Springfield is celebrating a milestone. SouLaoud Kitchen celebrated their 5-year anniversary Friday. The establishment is the first and only Lao restaurant in western Massachusetts. Part of their sales were donated to the Follow My Steps Foundation, which helps children in under-resourced communities. Through their Southeast Asian cuisine, the family business hopes to continue sharing their culture with the city of Springfield. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive got chills and it is not because of the cold its because we are still here and our community who loves and supports us so much making sure that we survived and that we made it through covid, says Lena Redd, Co-Owner of SouLaod Kitchen. The co-owner says her moms recipes they cook in their kitchen are more than 50 years old. she also encourages small business owners to be persistent and ask for help when needed. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, will not attend the upcoming G20 summit in Brazil, a well-informed Saudi source told dpa, though no explanation was provided. However, the heir apparent is set to attend an annual Gulf summit in Kuwait on December 1 and will host French President Emmanuel Macron, who is scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia starting December 2, the source added, requesting anonymity. The source also declined to address reports that the 39-year-old royal is dealing with an ear issue, which could be aggravated by the long-haul flight to Brazil. There was no immediate official comment from Riyadh. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The summit of the leading economic powers in Rio de Janeiro will focus on key issues including poverty alleviation, reforms of global institutions, climate protection, and the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. Saudi Arabia, the world's largest oil exporter, is the sole Arab representative in the G20 bloc. A South Carolina man died in a Midlands hospital days after a crash that left another person injured, officials said. Joseph T. Ray, a 35-year-old Saluda resident, died at Lexington Medical Center on Nov. 15, three days after the wreck, Saluda County Coroner Keith Turner said. The two-vehicle collision happened at about 5:45 a.m. Nov. 12 at the intersection of U.S. 178/Batesburg Highway and Duncan Road, according to Master Trooper William Bennett of the South Carolina Highway Patrol. Thats in the Batesburg-Leesville area, near W.W. King Academy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ray was driving a 2005 Chevrolet pickup truck north on Duncan Road, and at the intersection it collided with a 2010 Jeep that was heading east on U.S. 178, Bennett said. Both vehicles then ran off the left side of the road, where the Chevy crashed into a ditch and the Jeep flipped over, Bennett said. Ray was taken to Lexington Medical Center and died on the morning of Nov. 15, Turner said. Ray was the only person in the Chevy pickup, Bennett said. The Jeep driver, who was the only person in that vehicle, was taken to a hospital, Bennett said. Further information on the Jeep drivers condition was not available. No other injuries were reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was no word on whether either driver was wearing a seat belt. Information about what led to the collision was not available. Through Nov. 10, at least 837 people have died on South Carolina roads in 2024, according to the state Department of Public Safety. Last year, 1,030 people died in crashes in South Carolina, DPS reported. At least six people have died in Saluda County crashes in 2024, according to DPS data. TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) SpaceX successfully launched a rocket from Floridas Space Coast Sunday afternoon for its TD7 mission. The rocket took off shortly after 5:20 p.m. from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center. Cruise line offers 4-year cruise to skip forward, in wake of U.S. election results It was the 16th flight for the Falcon 9 first stage booster, which previously supported multiple missions to the International Space Station and nine Starlink missions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After stage separation, the booster could be seen landing on the A Shortfall of SpaceXs Gravitas drone ship, which was stationed in the Atlantic Ocean. The payload, or cargo, flying on the mission which, in this case, was a satellite then headed into a geosynchronous transfer orbit. A live webcast of the mission showed most of the trip, lasting just under 10 minutes. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. Wildlife officials are asking residents to take precautions after an increase in diseased raccoons. According to Southbridge Animal Control, the department has encountered 13 raccoons since September exhibiting classic signs of rabies such as lethargy, seizures, pawing at the mouth, and limping. Officials say this behavior is a dramatic departure from their usual behaviors. Police want to reiterate that at this time there have been no human exposures to any sick animals. However, because no human has been exposed, the Massachusetts State Public Health Laboratory in Boston is not required to test for rabies. This creates a conundrum in determining whether or not the raccoons have rabies, distemper, or a combination of both, according to officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The towns animal control officer has been in contact with Massachusetts Wildlife officials about the issue, and Southbridges Director of Public Health and the State Rabies Coordinator for the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) have both been advised of the suspected disease outbreak. The town is now participating in the USDA National Rabies Management Program (NRMP). Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW As the election results await certification, the Stanislaus County Republican and Democratic parties are reflecting on the outcomes, celebrating their victories and outlining their priorities for the future. As of Thursday, 54% of Stanislaus County voters supported Donald Trump, marking the first time the county has backed a Republican presidential candidate since George Bush in 2004. Trump supporters caravan down G Street in Modesto, Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024. The race for House District 13 between Democrat Adam Gray and Republican John Duarte remains close, with Duarte holding a slight lead with 51%. However, Gray has the edge in Stanislaus County, receiving 53% of the votes, as of Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the Assembly race, Republican Juan Alanis of Modesto is poised for a second term in Sacramento after garnering 57% of the vote and defeating Democrat Jessica Self. Joel Campos, county chairman of the Republican Party of Stanislaus County, expressed excitement over Trumps reelection. The voters have spoken, rejecting the out-of-touch policies of the left, he said. He added that voters have chosen common-sense policies to lower food and energy prices, protect citizens and reduce government red tape. Campos noted the GOPs efforts this election cycle, particularly their collaboration with the California GOP, the National Republican Congressional Committee and local campaign teams. New approaches to their get-out-the-vote initiatives included expanding from one office in Modesto to three across the county, establishing four ballot drop-box locations and encouraging early voting by mail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their election integrity team, responsible for monitoring the election process to ensure fairness, had over 100 volunteers working at polling centers and the Stanislaus County Elections Office. These volunteers, along with others, are now transitioning to focus on ballot-curing operations fixing any issues with mail or absentee ballots, Campos said. For us, the election isnt over yet. Were keeping our foot on the gas and staying focused on getting our candidates across the finish line as the elections office continues its count, he said. When asked about the county shifting more conservative, Campos expressed optimism about its direction. He highlighted key victories, including Alanis and Duarte, and said that these candidates align with voter priorities like reducing crime and addressing the rising costs of food, water and energy. Voters are tired of failed policies and want to see results, he said. People vote at the Stanislaus County Registrar of Voters office in Modesto, Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024. Dem leader concerned as an American and as a human Lise Talbott, chair of the Stanislaus County Democratic Party, expressed disappointment over national results but said she wasnt surprised. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The work really just continues, she said. She emphasized the need to protect vulnerable communities and mitigate the potential impacts of Trumps policies at all levels. She said shes worried about economic challenges and healthcare access under a second Trump administration. I have those concerns, not just as a Democrat, but as an American and as a human, she said. Still, Talbott celebrated several local wins, including retaining progressive leadership on the Modesto City Schools Board of Education and victories in Patterson, Turlock, Waterford and Riverbank races. She said the candidates who won their elections were the ones knocking on doors and actively engaging with community members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Talbott noted that while a shift toward a more conservative county is possible, she remains hopeful it wont happen. She believes that the midterm elections will be rough for Republicans. Looking ahead, Talbott expressed concern over the potential consequences of Trumps presidency, particularly for communities of color, LGBTQ individuals and immigrants. She said she has been in discussions with immigration attorneys to explore ways the community can help protect families at risk of separation. We really need to lean into our strengths as Democrats to protect the collective good and the community as a whole, regardless of party, Talbott said. Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Brazil on November 18, the Indian diaspora expressed their enthusiasm and said that they have started preparations to greet the PM. PM Modi will be heading to Brazil for the 19th G20 Summit, scheduled to take place from November 18 to 19. Indian diaspora is delighted to see their leaders and have prepared various cultural performances like Garba to welcome the PM. "I am very excited. We have done a lot of preparations. Women have organised a garba dance to welcome him," Rajni a member of the Indian diaspora told ANI. Another member, Dipali, said that she is planning to make food for PM Modi. "I am planning to make some food for PM Modi. I am trying to bring some Gujarati touch to the food." Additionally, Children have prepared to sing 'Vande Mataram' upon PM's arrival. PM Modi will arrive in Brazil on the second leg of his 3 nation visit. He will attend G20 Summit, scheduled to take place from November 18 to 19. As a Troika member, India will play a significant role in shaping the agenda, building on the momentum from its own G20 presidency. Brazil is expected to maintain the focus on Global South priorities, ensuring continuity and progress on key issues. "In Brazil, I will attend the 19th G-20 Summit as a Troika member. Last year, India's successful Presidency elevated the G-20 to people's G-20 and mainstreamed the priorities of the Global South into its Agenda. This year, Brazil has built upon India's legacy. I look forward to meaningful discussions in keeping with our vision of 'One Earth, One Family, One Future.' I will also use the opportunity to exchange views on furthering bilateral cooperation with several other leaders," PM Modi said in an official statement. Earlier in the day, PM Modi arrived in Nigeria, kick-starting his 5 days visit to three nations. He was warmly welcomed by Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, Minister for Federal Capital Territory upon his arrival in Abuja, the capital city of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Minister Wike presented PM Modi with the 'Key to the City' of Abuja. The key symbolises the trust and honour bestowed on the PM by the people of Nigeria. The Prime Minister is scheduled to hold bilateral discussions in Nigeria to strengthen the ties between both countries. PM Modi issued a statement indicating his first stop in Nigeria, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's invitation, aimed at strengthening strategic ties between both countries. "At the invitation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this will be my first visit to Nigeria, which is our close partner in the West African region. My visit will be an opportunity to build upon our Strategic Partnership that is based on shared belief in democracy and pluralism. I am also eagerly looking forward to meeting the Indian community and friends from Nigeria who have sent me warm welcome messages in Hindi," the statement said. PM Modi's final destination is Guyana, where he'll make history as the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the country in over five decades. (ANI) Sir Keir Starmer has backed plans to pay countries such as Vietnam and Kurdistan in an attempt to cut the number of illegal migrants leaving each year for Britain. The Prime Minister said it was the right thing for the UK to dissuade people leaving their home countries in the first place, rather than allowing them to make the perilous journey across the Channel in small boats. It came after reports that the Home Office is in negotiations with countries including Vietnam, Kurdistan and Turkey to beef up cooperation and security agreements with nations that are sources for Channel migrants and people smuggling gangs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Home Office sources said its initial focus was intelligence sharing and border security, rather than agreeing funding to deter people from coming to Britain or to make it more attractive for them to remain at home. It follows successful efforts by Giorgia Meloni, Italys prime minister, to reduce the surge in migrants crossing the Mediterranean by striking new agreements with Tunisia and Libya, the main sources for those crossing into Europe. Speaking on the way to the G20 conference in Brazil, Sir Keir backed the initiative alongside Labours wider plans to tackle the criminal gangs who facilitate people smuggling. Starmer says taking down gangs is the single most effective way of stopping small boat crossings - GETTY Asked about paying countries to stop migrants leaving in the first place, he said: Anything else we can do to stop people leaving in the first place is the right thing, whatever point of impact. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Downing Street said the money could be used to support border staff in identifying people whose travel was being facilitated by gangs as well as paying for information campaigns on the risks of trying to come to the UK. Sir Keir also suggested that the Government was pursuing returns deals with a number of countries on top of agreements with countries like Albania that are already in place. Obviously the returns are very important when people do get here, thats why I am pleased a large number of people have been returned, he said. Some 9,000 people have been returned to their country of origin since the election, according to the Government. Frontex, the EUs border force, has calculated a 64 per cent fall in the number of people arriving from North Africa and Malta. The Italian government claims that financial deals, struck with Tunisia and Libya, have played a key role in this decline. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The EU paid Tunisia 88 million last year to boost border security and train its coastguard. Italy supplied the country with patrol vessels and gave the government another 83 million to support small companies and invest in education and renewable energy. Migrants arrive at Dover Port after being picked up by a Border Force vessel in September - DAN KITWOOD/GETTY Britain has not ruled out similar incentives, which are likely to be far more costly than help with border security, but government sources played down the suggestion that they would form part of initial co-operation and security deals, and rejected parallels with Melonis approach. Sir Keir said: I dont think this is an area where we should just do one thing. We have got to do everything that we can. I am absolutely clear in my mind that taking down the gangs is the single most effective way of stopping the boats going across the Channel. People are making a huge amount of money for the journeys people are making across obviously several countries to the north coast of France. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Intercepting and taking those gangs down is hugely important and it will be one of the biggest disincentives if we can break the gangs that are running these. I have never accepted that these gangs cant be taken down. I know I have said this many times but I have worked for five years as chief prosecutor when we took down terrorist gangs, we took down people who were moving guns and drugs and people across borders. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. COMSTOCK TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) A Comstock Township fire chief who died in the line of duty was recognized and honored with the unveiling of a statue Saturday. Chief Edward Switalskis statue was revealed in Comstock Township at a Firefighters Memorial. The fire department also celebrated its 100th anniversary of service. Switalski died in the line of duty in June of 2017, after he was hit by a truck while responding to a call on the highway. An undated photo of former Comstock Township Department of Fire & Rescue Chief Ed Switalski. (Courtesy) Switalskis wife, Holly, was one of the speakers at the unveiling ceremony. She spoke about her late husbands honor and service to the community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today we come together to acknowledge Eds legacy, we gather in love and friendship for a man that touched us all, Holly Switalski said during her remarks. Eddy, you are missed, you are loved, we honor you and we will never forget you. Police: Driver who hit, killed fire chief had marijuana in system The statue was funded completely through community donations. Joshua Diedrich, the artist and sculptor behind the statue, told News 8 that many months went into ensuring that the sculpture captured Switalskis entire self. We spent a lot of time going back and forth talking to his friends and family and making sure that it really felt like him, Diedrich said. Not just looked like him but really felt like him, really had his personality, his posture, his stance and wanted to make sure that it just had as much of him preserved in that bronze as we possibly could. A statue of Edward Switalski, Comstock Township fire chief who was hit by a truck and killed in 2017 while responding to a call. (Nov. 16, 2024) Switalski is remembered as a loving and selfless leader who was revered by the entire community. The current Comstock Township Fire Chief Matt Beauchamp said that the fire station is not the same without him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 1 year later: Comstock Twp. fire chief remembered He selflessly served the community; he was doing one of the things that he loved in life, and he ultimately lost his life in the line of duty. Being able to take time to respect that, reflect on that for those that had relationships with Ed to be able to honor it in essence in some ways, Beauchamp told News 8. Diedrich echoed those statements, adding that the statue humanizes the line of service. Eds story in particular really brings home the idea that these are real people with families and lives and their own dreams and their own retirement that they want and letting him stand in for everyone who wears the uniform, he told News 8. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, this statue will serve as a way to keep Switalskis legacy alive for years to come. Im always struck with the idea that this is going to be here for the next hundreds of years after anyone that knew him is gone and is going to become the memory of him, Diedrich said. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) A special night for the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Stop & Shop presented a check for $112,500 to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts Saturday night at the Thunderbirds Game in Springfield. Stop & Shop partners with us in a number of ways. They provide monetary support and they also donate hundreds of thousand of pounds every year that goes out to our partner food pantries, and meal sites throughout the four counties of western Massachusetts, says Jillian Morgan, Director of Development for the Food Bank of western Massachusetts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than $12,000 of Stop & Shops donation will also be distributed to families across the region. Its all part of the grocery-chains Turkey Express Campaign, where they donate gift cards to families who need extra support this time of year. The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts helps more than 120,000 families across the region every month. Over 23,000 of them are children. If youd like to get involved and lend a helping hand at the Food Bank this holiday, you can click here for more information. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56) Fire crews in Frankfort worked to put out a storage area fire that spread into a home on Saturday night. Police investigating homicide after North Limestone shooting leaves man dead The City of Frankfort Fire and EMS posted on Facebook that around 10 p.m. on Saturday crews got multiple calls about a house fire in the eastern part of the city. When fire crews and emergency personnel arrived at the scene, fire officials said that heavy fire seemed to be coming from the back of the home, but a search of the area showed that a storage unit was on fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fire had moderate extension into the rear of the home and attic area, Frankfort fire crews said. A storage area fire spread into a Frankfort home on Saturday night. (City of Frankfort Fire & EMS) City of Frankfort Fire & EMS crews responded to multiple calls for a house fire around 10 p.m. on Saturday. (City of Frankfort Fire & EMS) Read more of the latest Kentucky news After an hour and a half of salvage and overhaul, authorities said Frankfort fire crews returned to service. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. Warm and windy for our Saturday with a few showers across central and eastern Kansas during the afternoon. Highs today were in the 60s and 70s as southerly winds brought warmer air into the region. Cloud cover will linger through the night as our winds change direction. Northwest Kansas will cool into the upper 20s by daybreak as northwesterly winds take control sooner than the rest of the region. Lows will be a wide range with southcentral Kansas as the warm spot in the 40s and 50s. Patchy drizzle will start the day for some tomorrow, primarily across southwest Kansas. Cloud cover stays locked in place overhead for the majority of the day. Temperatures will be much cooler tomorrow with highs in the 50s and 60s. Spotty showers will arrive for southern Kansas during the evening as our next wave of energy enters the region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Showers will move through areas primarily along and east of I-135 on Sunday night. Pockets of heavy rain will be possible at times. Moisture will continue to track from Oklahoma into Kansas for the start of the workweek. A low-pressure system will bring moisture to the Plains on Monday. This system will track right through Kansas and result in excessive rainfall across parts of the state. A Marginal Risk for severe weather is in place for Monday across central and eastern Kansas. A few storms could produce strong winds and hail at times as well as thunder and heavy rain. Many will run into widespread rainfall during their morning commute on Monday. The bulk of the rainfall will stay in central and eastern Kansas but scattered showers and storms will be possible across western Kansas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the low lifts north, moisture will follow it out of the state during the afternoon. Scattered showers will hang around through the evening before we dry out on Monday night. Areas across central Kansas could pick up anywhere from 2-3 of rainfall over the next three days. This month is already the 5th rainiest on record for Wichita and we look to climb in that placement this week. A quick-moving cold front will track through the state Tuesday night into Wednesday. This boundary will not have much moisture to work with over Kansas but will try to squeeze out a few showers and flurries as it moves through the region. Precipitation will be limited. Temperatures drop dramatically midweek as northerly winds rush into the region behind the passing boundary. We dip to see highs in the upper 40s on Wednesday before gradually warming towards our seasonal average by Saturday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KSN Storm Track 3 Forecast from Meteorologist Lucy Doll: Wichita: Tonight: Mostly cloudy. 10% chance of showers. Lo: 50 Wind: S/SW 8-18 Tomorrow: Mostly cloudy. 20% chance of showers. Hi: 65 Wind: SW/SE 5-15 Tomorrow night: Mostly cloudy to cloudy. 90% chance of rain. Lo: 55 Wind: SE/NE 5-15 Wichita Weekly Mon: Hi: 65 Lo: 41 Mostly cloudy, windy. 100% chance of rain. Tue: Hi: 55 Lo: 34 Partly cloudy to mostly sunny, windy. Wed: Hi: 49 Lo: 31 Partly to mostly cloudy, windy. 10% chance of rain. Thu: Hi: 50 Lo: 30 Partly cloudy to mostly sunny, breezy. Fri: Hi: 54 Lo: 34 Mostly sunny, breezy. Sat: Hi: 55 Lo: 36 Mostly sunny. -Meteorologist Lucy Doll Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV. Student protesters could be in the crossfire of the Trump administrations crackdown on colleges, with activists increasingly concerned about freedom of speech for pro-Palestinian advocates. Those on campus have already seen stricter rules around demonstrations this academic year, but President-elect Trump, as a candidate, threatened protesters with everything from military action to deportation. While there has already been harsh crackdowns and repression across the country under the Biden administration, there is concern of a Trump administration ramping up and taking even more extreme unlawful and unconstitutional crackdowns on student protesters who speak out against U.S. support for Israels genocide of Palestine, said Amr Shabaik, legal director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations in California. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has repeatedly floated deportation as a punitive tool, threatening to take away the visas from international students. One thing I do is, any student that protests, I throw them out of the country. You know, there are a lot of foreign students. As soon as they hear that, theyre going to behave, Trump said at an event to donors, according to individuals who spoke to The Washington Post in May. The platform adopted by the Republican National Committee over the summer also listed as a goal to deport pro-Hamas radicals and make our college campuses safe and patriotic again. Trump has threatened mass deportations of millions of people, including students. Immigrants are a vital part of our communities, and we stand against his threatened use of violence, law enforcement, intimidation and the separation and breakup of families that will result from his threatened actions, said Shabaik. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president-elect has also regularly threatened financial repercussions for colleges and universities as a way of imposing his agenda. Legal experts fear the schools may soon face outside pressure to exert their own repercussions on their student bodies, particularly as Trump rolls out a Cabinet full of loyalists. In his last administration, he did appoint Kenneth Marcus, who pioneered the strategy of misusing Title VI of the Civil Rights Act to try to censor speech critical of Israel on college campuses, said Radhika Sainath, senior staff attorney with Palestine Legal. So, I do think that there is a very, very strong possibility that he will appoint people who are looking to quash the movement for Palestinian rights, either by redefining or using definitions of antisemitism that make it impossible to criticize Israel, Sainath added. Pro-Palestinian protesters have already faced a challenging environment under the Biden administration, with schools releasing stricter rules around protesting over the summer so the encampments that canceled some graduation ceremonies last spring cannot happen again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I cant speak for all students, but over the past year, students have shown their resolve, bravery, and ingenuity under a hostile Biden administration and while dealing with hostile school administrations, law enforcement agencies and district attorneys, Shabaik said. Since Trump was elected, he has quickly shown he will remain staunchly pro-Israel. As of this writing, the president-elect has so far only announced an ambassador for one nation, Israel, with Mike Huckabee, a self-proclaimed Zionist, getting the nod. Trump had also spoken to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu three times in the week since Election Day. Back in October, The Washington Post reported Trump told Netanyahu in a phone call to do what you have to do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And well before he takes office, experts say free speech is under attack at colleges. Professors right now are having their syllabi questioned, being told by administrators to stick the syllabus and to not talk about Israel and Palestine. So, there is this very McCarthy environment thats happening right now, and we do expect it to intensify with Trump, Sainath said. Weve long said that Palestine is the canary in the coal mine, right? And so that these types of things could also make it harder for students to talk about, or professors to teach, critical race theory or to discuss topics that have been targeted by the right, Sainath said. We do see more of that happening as well. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Over the last four decades, Ive taught more than 8,000 students how to analyze and evaluate rhetoric in politics and other contexts. Since the election, a number of those students have reached out to me seeking reassurance about the future of our democracy. While the former students who have contacted me are desperately afraid of what could happen in a second Donald Trump administration, other former students might have been just as fearful about a Kamala Harris administration. To both groups, I would offer the same reassurance about the strength of our democratic system. James Madison and the other founders designed a system of government that provided crucial safeguards to protect the nation from those who might threaten democratic norms in the pursuit of power. While they built important checks and balances into the Constitution, the most important protection is even more basic to our system. We talk first and then decide. There is wide agreement that the most important essay ever written about American democracy is Madisons Federalist No. 10. Madison was not an especially successful president, and, as a slaveholder, failed to confront the greatest moral evil of the time, but he also was our first great democratic theorist. Most of Federalist No. 10 explained various forces that could threaten democratic governance. He wrote of the dangers posed by partisanship and an over-bearing majority, of special interests, which he called factions, and observed somewhat dryly that enlightened statesman will not always be at the helm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But despite all these risks, Madison defended the new system of government based on the premise that competition between factions which he called a republican remedy for the diseases most incident to republican government would protect the new nation. Madison: Discussion beats anger Given all the threats to democratic governance, one might wonder why Madison had such faith in the new system of governance. He explained the source of his faith in Federalist No. 41, when he wrote, A bad cause seldom fails to reveal itself. Madison recognized human fallibility, the desire of special interests to protect and enrich themselves, the anger that might be expressed at different groups, and the desire of fallible humans for power and the risk that some might exercise that power to protect themselves and punish their enemies. But he still believed that the new nation would prosper and persevere because, over time, free and open discussion and debate would reveal a bad cause. Many of my former students dread what the next four years may bring. But at the same time, the arc of our history has always moved toward more inclusion and greater opportunity for all. It is important to remember that Americans once feared or hated immigrants from Ireland, Japan and elsewhere, Mennonites and many other religious minority groups, all of which are now fully included in the American family. President Barack Obama often quoted Martin Luther King Jr., who, in turn, was paraphrasing 19th century abolitionist Theodore Parker, saying that the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice. It doesnt bend that way constantly, but over time the movement has been in only one direction. That movement has occurred because we are all just people, and while public reason is often powerless in the moment, it has always driven events in the longer term. Kamala Harris debate win didnt matter Placing faith in public reason may seem naive after an election campaign in which reason seemed to matter very little. There is, after all, overwhelming consensus among commentators and scholars of political rhetoric that Vice President Harris clearly won the debate with Trump. My own close analysis of the debate indicates that she was a vastly superior debater compared to her opponent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the end, the debate mattered very little. But the long run is different than public response in a political campaign. In the long run, Adams is still right that facts are stubborn things. If Trumps policies produce dangerous effects, those facts will, over time, exhibit the stubbornness that Adams attributed to them. In his great speech at Westminster in 1982, President Ronald Reagan argued that the Soviet Union had lost the battle of ideas because people everywhere wanted to live in a society where they had a chance to build a better life for their families, where their rights were protected, and where they had a say in their own governance. History proved he was right. If Trumps policies dont work or harm people, public reason will reveal those very stubborn facts. Public reason may work more slowly today than in the past because of the rise of social media and news silos but being right is still a powerful thing, and being wrong even more powerful. It may take years and there may be many setbacks, but public reason and a commitment to democratic values will win out. As then-Sen. Obama once said, In the unlikely story that is America, there has never been anything false about hope. The forces that power audacious hope are public reason and our shared humanity. Robert C. Rowland is a professor of communication studies at the University of Kansas, focusing on presidential rhetoric. He was the primary speaker on President Ronald Reagans rhetoric at the Reagan Centennial and is the author of The Rhetoric of Donald Trump: Nationalist Populism and American Democracy. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) The Summerset Police Department is warning residents of an old scam that has resurfaced. The scam starts with the scammer posing as a local law enforcement officer, claiming that the victim has federal warrants out for their arrest. The scammer then demands payment to resolve the issue and avoid arrest. Creating awareness for poverty through art The scammer might call from a legitimate phone number that could be spoofed to look like a government agency or law enforcement. They will claim that you owe money for the charges and urge you to act quickly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The police remind the public that no legitimate law enforcement agency will ask for money over the phone for legal issues. If you receive a call like this, hang up immediately. If you receive a call like this, you are asked to call Summerset Police Department at 605-721-6806. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. Beirut [Lebanon], November 17 (ANI/WAM): The Lebanese Ministry of Health announced today that Israeli airstrikes across various areas in Lebanon resulted in the death of 7 people while 65 others were wounded over the past 24 hours. The Lebanese National News Agency reported that the total toll since the beginning of the aggression up until yesterday has reached 3,452 dead and 14,664 wounded. In the past 24 hours, 145 airstrikes and shelling attacks were recorded on various regions of Lebanon, bringing the total number of assaults since the beginning of the aggression to 13,222. (ANI/WAM) When you walk into The Local Exchange store in Marietta Square, you can see signs of Georgia pride on the pillows and bags of pecans. Theyre so good, they fly out of here, Michele Rodgers says of the flavored pecans. But people who grow the food we eat are fighting to come back from devasting damage. These are generational losses that our producers have been impacted by, Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper says. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] He is pushing for Congress to approve disaster relief for farmers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hurricane Helene is costing Georgias Agriculture businesses an estimated $6.46 billion. The storm wiped out 48,000 acres of pecan trees and did structural damage to farms in middle and South Georgia. Many farmers are pushed to the brink. Channel 2s Linda Stouffer asked what people in metro Atlanta can do to support the farm communities. One, if youre willing to encourage your member of Congress to help us get the legislation across the finish line, Harper said. Another way they can help is to go to Support Georgia Farmers. It is our weathered but strong hurricane relief fund. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harper says 100% of the donations will go to farm families. Another thing people can do this holiday season is look for the label that says, Georgia Grown. That identifies fresh produce grown in Georgia, and products crafted in Georgia. Buying local supports local jobs. Whether it is pecan butter spreads, fresh fruits and vegetables at a community farmers market, or creative candy, the Georgia Grown label identifies locally crafted products. And if you cant find it, I urge you to go ask the manager of the grocery store for those products, Harper said. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] CHICAGO A man has been arrested for a deadly shooting that happened back in August near Chinatown. Chicago police said at around 7 a.m. on Aug. 25, a 28-year-old man was in the 400 block of West Cermak Road when a silver sedan drove up. After a brief conversation, a suspect from inside the vehicle starting shooting in the victims direction, hitting him multiple times. 1 dead, 2 injured after argument leads to shootout in Garfield Ridge Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim was taken to Stroger Hospital where he died, according to police. On Nov. 14, police said they arrested 22-year-old Humza Raja in the 5100 block of N. Catalpa after identifying him as the suspect in the aforementioned shooting. Raja has been charged with one count of first degree murder. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. TOWN N COUNTRY, Fla. (WFLA) A deputy-involved shooting left a suspect dead in Tampa on Saturday night, according to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. A Hillsborough County deputy conducted a traffic stop for an obscured tag on West Hillsborough Avenue and Elliot Drive outside a Circle K gas station at around 9:15 p.m. Former St. Pete council member accused of hiding cameras in air vent to watch woman shower Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deputy, 26-year-old Jared Mincemeyer, approached the vehicle and asked to see the drivers hands, who then briefly showed his hands. When asked to step out of his car, the driver reached for a firearm, according to the FDLE. Officials said the suspect got out of the car with the firearm, resulting in Deputy Mincemeyer backing away and shooting the suspect. (Credit: Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office) The suspect was taken to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead. Our deputy was simply doing his job trying to protect our community when he was forced to defend himself against an armed individual, Sheriff Chad Chronister said. No deputy ever wants to face this situation, but when confronted with a deadly threat, they must act to protect themselves and others. Our deputies put their lives on the line every day to keep our community safe. Its unfortunate when criminals make choices that lead to fatal outcomes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FHP arrests driver who fell asleep in middle of I-75 near Brandon The sheriffs office said Deputy Mincemeyer has been with them since October 2022 and has no prior use of force. Body camera video of the incident, along with the suspects identity, is expected to be released at a later time. The FDLE will continue to investigate the deputy-involved shooting. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. After nearly two decades, Tempe police and the U.S. Marshal's Service found and arrested a suspect in connection with the cold case stabbing death of 20-year-old David Lopez. According to Tempe police, Lopez was stabbed to death on Dec. 27, 2008, at an apartment complex near McKellips and Scottsdale Roads. Before he died, the 20-year-old Lopez showed up at the doorstep of a neighbor and said he had been stabbed and asked them to call 911. Lopez died that evening and detectives continued to investigate, but the case ultimately went cold. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Tempe police cold case detective re-opened the case in 2014. The detective used "an advanced DNA scientific examination" to link the fatal stabbing to Jose Juan Vergara Ortiz, authorities said. Ortiz, who was 16 when he allegedly stabbed Lopez in 2008, is now 32. Police said they worked with the Marshal's Service to locate and extradite Ortiz from Mexico, where he was living for an unknown period. We are grateful to the U.S. Marshals Service Mexico Investigative Liaison Team for their collaboration and endless pursuit of justice. We hope this arrest helps ease the pain for the family of the victim of this violent crime, said Tempe Police Chief Ken McCoy. Ortiz was arrested Nov. 15 on suspicion of first-degree murder and armed robbery charges, according to Tempe police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Marshals Service and Tempe Police Department worked relentlessly on this case and successfully located and extradited this fugitive from justice from the country of Mexico, said Van Bayless, U.S. Marshal for the District of Arizona. We are committed to use all of our collective law enforcement resources against anyone committing violent acts in our communities and bring them to justice. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arrest made in Mexico in 2008 stabbing homicide cold case in Tempe Russian gas could keep flowing into Europe next year under a controversial swap deal in which the Kremlins fossil fuels would be rebranded as Azerbaijani. Despite the war, Moscow still pays Kyiv 634 million a year to transmit gas to Europe via Ukraine. However, this agreement is set to expire at the end of next month. In Azerbaijan, which is currently hosting the Cop29 climate summit, talks are under way that would see its state energy company, Socar, step in as a middleman when the transit deal ends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the proposed scheme one of several being considered gas from Gazprom, Moscows gas giant, would be rebranded as Azerbaijani, with equivalent volumes of Bakus gas labelled as Russian. The scheme would mean that European companies could sign contracts with Azerbaijan for Russian gas, but wouldnt have to deal with Russians. Azerbaijan holds significant gas reserves of its own, but, unlike Russia, lacks the infrastructure to send substantial quantities directly to Europe. Talks over the deal have been ongoing at Cop29 in Baku this week, and come as Russia launched one of its largest missile barrages against Ukraine since the war began. Oil pump jacks and drilling rigs in an oilfield on the shore of the Caspian Sea in Baku, Azerbaijan - Andrey Rudakov/Bloomberg On Sunday, Russia unleashed a massive combined assault of over 200 missiles and drones on Ukraine, killing at least 10 people and damaging energy infrastructure with the freezing winter looming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Critics say the proposed gas swap deal would play into the hands of Putin by indirectly funding the Kremlins war on Ukraine, undermining international sanctions and continuing Europes dependence on Russian energy. This past weekend, we Ukrainians faced one of the largest mass attacks from Russia, said Svitlana Romanko, director of Razom We Stand, a Ukrainian organisation that seeks a permanent embargo on Russian fossil fuels. These attacks were paid for largely by Russian exports of fossil fuels, some of which were sent to European countries, or shipped on European owned or insured ships. Whether the cash sent to fund Russias horrific attacks is sent to buy fuels labelled as being from Russia, or from Russia but labelled Azerbaijan, or any other country, we innocent Ukrainians will still be suffering. Romanko said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both the EU and Ukraine are adamant they will not renew the current deal with Russia, which was signed in 2019, when it expires at the end of December. Belarus employees work at the Yamal-Europe gas transfer station - VIKTOR DRACHEV/AFP Ukraine sees the transit agreement aiding Moscows war finances, but it stands to lose 634 million a year from transiting fees for a pipeline that connects Russia to Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania and Moldova. The gas swap is one of several possibilities on the table, and Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed his government was in talks with Baku on this and other options in an interview with Bloomberg over the summer. Its very difficult to say what the most likely deal will be, but ultimately it is Ukraine who decides. Ukraine has to sign a transit agreement, said Ugne Keliauskaite, an energy research analyst at Bruegel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She added: Purchasing Azerbaijani gas just to formally avoid showing the original gas source would not result in any progress in terms of the EU reducing its reliance on Russian energy. Russia would still be able to cut the gas, as it has done in the past. And such a set-up could set a precedent for starting the supply of Azerbaijani gas to the EU via Yamal or Nord Stream, hence actually bringing Russian gas back into play. At the end of the day, there would be no change in gas flows from the primary source till end used. There would only be a new intermediary. Azerbaijans president, Ilham Aliyev, also said he had been approached by Ukraine and the EU for assistance in maintaining gas transit via Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The swap deal could ultimately give Russia a backdoor to influence European energy markets. Experts said Europe was hypocritical for chiding Russias war with one hand, and buying their gas with the other after almost three years of war, there has been ample time to seek an alternative. Europe still does not have the ability, or political will, to move away from Russian gas before 2027, said Thierry Bros, a professor at Sciences Po Paris and a contributor to Natural Gas World. Putin still has the ability to create volatility and push prices higher. While the UK has sanctioned Russian energy, Europe is yet to, with 17 percent of its gas imports coming still from Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You cant just jump on TV and say Russian gas is bad without finding an alternative, said Mr Bros, referring to Brussels. Weve delayed our response and sleep walked into a crisis. This winter may be the last that Putin has this hand to play, so he may play it. Mr Bros believes there is no clear frontrunner yet in terms of solutions to the problem, even as the deadline for a replacement deal looms. Russia may delay a deal in order to exert pressure on Europe, or push up prices, he said. But Europe has enough supply to weather the lag without supply cuts. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. BEIJING (Reuters) - China's President Xi Jinping told his U.S. counterpart Joe Biden that the issues of Taiwan, democracy, human rights and rights to development are "red lines" for China and not to be challenged, the official state media Xinhua said on Sunday. Xi warned the United States not to get involved in bilateral disputes over islands and reefs in the South China Sea or "aid or abet the impulsion to make provocations" in that region, it said. China and United States would roil or even see relations take a setback in rivalry with each other, but could make considerable progress by treating each other as partners and friends, Xi told Biden on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic forum summit in Peru, according to Xinhua. (Reporting by Liz Lee and Beijing newsroom; Editing by William Mallard) By Eduardo Baptista LIMA (Reuters) -Lin Hsin-i, Taiwan's representative at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in Lima, said on Saturday that he greeted China's President Xi Jinping with a wave, but there was no handshake or conversation, a sign of the tensions between Taipei and Beijing. Taiwan, which takes part in APEC as "Chinese Taipei" and does not send its president to summits due to China's objections, has faced increased military pressure from Beijing, including four rounds of war games since 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The forum is one of the few international meetings both Taiwan and China take part in, and where officials from the two sides can interact, even if just to exchange pleasantries. Beijing views the island as its own territory with no right to state-to-state relations. Taiwan's democratically elected government rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims. Speaking at a press conference, Lin, chairman of government-backed investment fund Taiwania Capital and also a former economy minister, said that while Taiwan had bilateral talks with many APEC members, with Xi there was just a greeting gesture across the room where leaders were gathered. "The motion of a greeting has no details..." he said, adding that there was no handshake with the Chinese leader when asked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lack of interaction with Xi contrasts with the meeting Lin had with U.S. President Joe Biden the previous day, which the Taiwanese delegation described as a "lively" exchange of views. The United States is Taiwan's most important international backer and arms supplier, though Washington cut formal diplomatic ties with Taipei in 1979 in favour of Beijing. Last year, Taiwan representative Morris Chang, founder of chip giant TSMC, also spoke with Biden but not Xi. But in 2022, then 91-year-old Chang had a "very pleasant" and "polite" interaction with Xi at an APEC forum in Bangkok, where Xi asked about Chang's health and Chang congratulated Xi on the success of the Chinese Communist Party's 20th Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement APEC 2026 As Taiwan struggles with Beijing's strategy to make the island's remaining diplomatic allies to cut ties in favour of Beijing, China's push to host the forum in 2026, announced by Xi earlier on Saturday, has worried the island's government. At Lin's press conference on Saturday, Deputy Secretary-General of Taiwan's National Security Council Hsu Szu-Chien said that there were "all kinds of misgivings and concerns" among Taiwan and other APEC members about Beijing hosting the forum. Hsu said one concern were new Chinese legal guidelines published in June that impose the death penalty in extreme cases for "diehard" Taiwan independence separatists. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Chinese courts have no jurisdiction on the island, Hsu said that Taiwan had expressed worries the guidelines would be used against not only Taiwanese officials in China, but those from other APEC members as well. "Other APEC members have similar concerns so the fact that a consensus was reached (on China hosting the forum) means Beijing has made promises in response to all members' relevant concerns," Hsu said. (Reporting by Eduardo Baptista; editing by Diane Craft and Alistair Bell) A senior Taliban diplomat urged the international community to aid Afghanistan's recovery during a meeting in Kabul on Sunday, emphasizing the destruction caused by decades of conflict. Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Shir Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai called on the United Nations and international NGOs to provide support to Afghanistan in the form of technical assistance, economic development initiatives and agricultural cooperation. He particularly addressed countries that were previously militarily involved in Afghanistan, claiming they have a moral obligation to help rebuild the country based on the Doha Agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stanekzai indirectly pointed to NATO countries that participated in US-led operations, claiming that for 20 years these countries bombed Afghanistan and conducted military missions that led to fatalities and destruction of the country. "Cooperate with Afghanistan in all fields, especially in politics, economy, agriculture and medicine, so that Afghanistan reaches self-sufficiency," he said. The US and the Taliban signed a peace agreement in Doha that led to the ending of the US occupation of Afghanistan and the subsequent return to power of the Taliban in August 2021. Since then, the Taliban government has been seeking international recognition and aid, while also facing criticism over its governance practices. As a result, no country has officially recognized the Taliban government yet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Taliban has banned girls and women from studying beyond primary school. However, in some parts of the country, women and girls still attend religious schools, as well as midwifery, dentistry and nursing schools. The Taliban authorities originally said the ban was a "temporary suspension" that will be resolved after the establishment of a safe environment for girls to attend school, but no changes have been made so far. Some Taliban officials, including Stanekzai, have expressed support for the reopening of schools for girls, but there has been no progress on this front. "As we defeated the two superpowers of the world during the past 40 years and made our country free ... today, the next stage of our jihad is the progress and prosperity of our country. Yesterday, we waged armed jihad, today, we wage economic, scientific and political jihad," Stanekzai said at the meeting. In the wake of the election, some have said that Democrats need to talk less about transgender people. Thats exactly wrong: they, and we, need to talk more more about real trans lives, real science, and real values, and less about disinformation and lies. Thanks to nearly $250 billion in campaign spending, Republicans have owned the discourse about trans people and have, in Steve Bannons memorable phrase, flooded the zone with shit. They have spread lies about trans identity, trans sports, and trans kids. They have Swift-Boated the Democrats, who were afraid to fight back and lost votes and credibility as a result. And while that disinformation blitz didnt determine the outcome of the election the economy did it raised the intensity of anti-trans sentiment, to the point where the basic science and lives of trans people is now being denied. I got a small taste of that myself, when, on CNN last week, I objected to a fellow journalist describing trans girls as boys playing girls sports. In response, Ive received thousands of hateful text messages, emails, and social media messages, which comes with the territory, but Ive also been excoriated on Fox News, in the Atlantic, and elsewhere, which often repeated the same medically-inaccurate, historically-inaccurate right-wing talking points. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We need to take a breath and press the reset button. Lets start with the definitions of sex and gender. For almost everyone, biological sex correlates with either anatomy or genetic type. (Not everyone there are intersex people, and people with various genetic variations, and the genetic basis of gender is actually quite complex but almost.) Its mostly a binary, and mostly familiar: boys and girls, men and women. Gender means something else, which is why its a different word. Gender refers to how society understands masculine and feminine, how we dress and speak and act in ways that are associated with gender, and thus, how we see ourselves in the context of these social roles. Hairstyles, fashion choices, and social roles have nothing to do with anatomy; they have to do with society, and the specific markers of gender vary from place to place. To oversimplify it, the saying goes that sex is about whats between your legs, and gender is about whats between your ears. For the vast majority of people, gender and sex align. But for a small minority recent estimates say between 0.6 and 1 percent of the U.S. population they dont. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This isnt just a preference, like wishing you had blonde hair instead of brown (more on that in a minute). It is, for many people, a painful mismatch between how they feel about this intimate, fundamental part of themselves and how they are seen in the world, or even in the mirror. This condition is known as gender dysphoria, which simply means a non-alignment of sex and gender. How do we know this? Well, if you know trans people, especially teenagers, its obvious. Trans people just exist. Theyre not mentally ill, and if theyre allowed to be who they are, they are as happy and unhappy as the rest of us. Its really quite simple, but since only 40 percent of Americans say they know someone trans, trans allies need to talk about it more. Alternatively, you can read up on four decades of scientific studies. While theres a fair amount of pseudoscience and polemical literature floating around today, the mainstream medical consensus remains clear: all 21 major medical organizations recognize gender dysphoria and the range of treatments for it. None deny it. These are facts. Science is not guided by public opinion. If it were, it would have concluded in the 1950s that different races have different levels of intelligence, or in the 1960s that homosexuality is a mental disorder. It is guided by data and the scientific method. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The gender spectrum is also part of history. Many societies have more than two genders. In my Jewish tradition, the Talmud lists five. In India, the hijra are a third gender that is neither male nor female. The muxe people are a third gender in Mexico. These categories dont quite match up to todays scientific ones, but they point to the spectrum of gender that has always been part of human experience. Its even in religion. The Bible features many people whose gender expression or actions dont match their biological sex, like Jacob, described in predominantly feminine terms, and Deborah, described in masculine ones, not to mention eunuchs in the Hebrew Bible and New Testament. If youre religious, you might even see gender diversity as part of Gods design. Obviously, medical interventions to treat gender dysphoria are new, and its reasonable to have questions about them. But so are Ozempic and Botox, not to mention chemotherapy and heart surgery. We intervene with nature all the time when the health of our bodies and minds are at stake. Or even for preference; we color our hair and replace it when it falls out, we wear makeup, we undergo plastic surgery. We alter our bodies all the time. Lets remember whats at stake. This is a small and very vulnerable population: Over half of trans kids aged 12-18 have seriously considered committing suicide, according to surveys by the Trevor Project. Only 35 percent of trans teens say their families are supportive of them. The amount of airtime this small and vulnerable population receives from conservative politicians 614 anti-trans bills were proposed in 2024 alone is wildly out of proportion to reality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, I know that a lot of this is new, and a lot of it can be, well, difficult to grasp. I get that people are irritated by pronouns, and dont like being shamed for being politically incorrect. (Since Ive simplified some things in this article, Ill probably catch some of that myself.) I also get that parents of girls (I am the parent of one) have legitimate concerns about safety and opportunity. So, sure, we can have conversations about sports, pronouns, and bathrooms. We can talk about when hormones or puberty blockers are appropriate, and what safeguards should be in place. We can call people into conversation, rather than call them out for their offenses. But thats not whats happening right now. Whats happening is that vulnerable people are being exploited for political purposes, and people are saying things that are just not true. According to every medical organization in America, trans girls are not simply boys. Only a tiny sliver of trans teenagers undergo surgery, and then only after extensive counseling, screening, and other interventions. It is flat-out wrong to deny these facts and it is dangerous. Looking someone in the eye and saying I know your soul better than you do is a first step toward dehumanizing and oppressing them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My first question, whenever this happens, is always: Do you know someone trans? If you do, you know that gender identity isnt some delusion, or game, or preference, or tactic. Those are myths not unlike myths people used to tell about gay people, that we were child molesters, or mentally ill. We need more trans voices in the media to tell the truth, and we need more allies to speak up so they dont always have to. My second question is: Do you know the parent of a trans kid? They want what all parents want: whats best for their kids. Check out this Missouri dad who spoke to the state legislature there about his daughter. Why is the government getting in between parents, kids, and doctors when it comes to best-practices medical care? Why is this anyones business but the families? If you dont know trans kids or trans parents, your task is to listen to trans people directly, rather than listen to people talk about them. Listen to them talk about their lives, the pain of dysphoria and repression, the liberation of an authentic life. Watch Will and Harper, about Will Ferrell and his longtime friend who transitioned, or Ma Vie En Rose, or Disclosure, or Hearstopper. Read the anthologies Authentic Selves and Trans-Kin about trans people and their families, or Elliot Pages new memoir, or classics by Kate Bornstein, Leslie Feinberg, C.N. Lester, or Susan Stryker. Theres an entire reading list of books by and about trans people produced by the organization PFLAG. As the right loves to say, do your research. Follow trans people online, like Imara Jones, Natalie Wynn, Abigail Thorn, Chase Strangio, Ivan Coyote, Charlotte Clymer, and Dylan Mulvaney, who was targeted in a vicious anti-trans campaign. If youre in a religious tradition, check out books by Justin Tanis, Joy Ladin, Cheryl Evans, and many others. The list goes on and on and on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reasonable, thoughtful people are going to disagree about policies, on this as well as every other issue. Thats how civil society functions. But wherever we come down on the issues, the only ethical way to talk about them is on the basis of science and reality, not myths and misunderstanding. We need to do better. At stake are hundreds of thousands of lives. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. BAKU, Azerbaijan (AP) Distractions were bigger than deals in the first week of United Nations climate talks, leaving a lot to be done, especially on the main issue of money. In week one, not a lot of progress was made on the issue of how much money rich countries should pay to developed ones to move away from dirty fuels and how to cope with rising seas and temperatures and pay for damage already caused by climate-driven extreme weather. But more is expected when government ministers fly in for week two to handle the hard political deal-making at the negotiations known as COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. Countries remain about a trillion dollars a year apart in the big number to be settled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All the developing countries look very united behind $1.3 trillion. Thats not a ceiling. Thats what they want. Thats what they think they need, said Debbie Hillier, policy lead at Mercy Corps. The U.S. and Canada are constantly talking about a floor of $100 billion.... So you've got $100 billion at one end and $1.3 trillion" on the other end. While poor countries have come up with a number for the total final package, the rich donor nations have assiduously avoided giving a total, choosing to pick a figure late in the bargaining game, Hillier said. The intention of developed countries to really come clean and show commitment is missing, said Harjeet Singh, global engagement director for the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative. "They have not uttered a single word on what the (final total) is going to be which is very disturbing. Especially when it comes to this total, United Nations Climate Secretary Simon Stiell said, negotiations on key issues need to be moving much faster." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whats at stake here in Baku, Stiell said, is "nothing less than the capacity to halve emissions this decade and protect lives and livelihoods from spiraling climate impacts. Climate talks run on brinkmanship At the moment, the sides are far away, which is sort of normal for this stage. The technical details that are worked out by negotiators now have to give way to the bigger, harder number decisions made by climate and finance ministers to make more political decisions, said Ani Dasgupta, president of World Resources Institute. Member states have not moved and parties have not moved as expeditiously as they need to do, said United Nations Environment Programme Executive Director Inger Andersen. This is causing frustration. I understand that. So the answer is to push and push more and ensure that we land where we need to land. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Andersen said its not smart to judge where countries will end up after just one week. Things change. Its the nature of how negotiations are designed, experts said. Thats how it usually goes. COP works on brinkmanship, said Avinash Persaud, a special climate adviser at the Inter-American Development Bank. COP works on the fear of us not reaching agreement in the end, which makes the process appear chaotic from the outside. Ministers will also be consulting with their bosses half a world away and seven hours behind at the Group of 20 countries the G20 in Brazil from Monday. The G20 is comprised of the worlds richest nations, who are also responsible for 77% of planet-heating gases being spewed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eyes are on the COP president Usually, the second week is when the COP president takes over and pushes sides together for a deal. Different negotiations' presidents have different styles. Last year's president used sharp elbows to get things done, upsetting some people. That's not the style of this year's COP29 President Mukhtar Babayev. What I see with Mukhtar is that he uses a gentle presence, a degree of humility in his very presence, Andersen said. But Mohamed Adow, of the think tank Power Shift Africa said the presidency is not giving any hope for how he will help the world strike the right compromises." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Babayev struck an optimistic tone in a statement to The Associated Press on how things are looking at the halfway point. We have made good progress in the first week. Were feeling positive but there is still much work to do, Babayev said. "Success does not depend on one country or party alone it requires all of us. At the talks' first week, there were many distractions Much of the news from the talks' first weeks came from outside the negotiation rooms. Host country president Ilham Aliyev triggered a few distractions himself. His combative welcome speech not only blasted neighbor Armenia and western mainstream media, but he called oil and gas chief causes of climate change a gift from the Gods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And then he got into a verbal spat with France, prompting the environment minister to pull out from the talks. Argentina called its delegation home in what may be a preview for the right-wing ruled country pulling out of the Paris climate agreement. At the same time, a letter signed by a former United Nations secretary-general and ex-top climate negotiators called for dramatic reform of the talks. But several authors said the letter was being misinterpreted. Activists blasted the talks as being too wedded to fossil fuels, citing Aliyev's comments, the fact that Azerbaijan is a big oil producer and that more than 1,700 people connected to the fossil fuel industry were part of the negotiations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A sense of optimism, but not urgency Some top leaders already at the climate talks expressed cautious optimism but added that the larger goal of climate talks should be front and center next week. "We need to keep 1.5 alive, said Alliance of Small Island States Chair Cedric Schuster referring to the climate goal set nine years ago at the Paris climate talks to keep global heating to less than 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial times. Schuster, who is also the environment minister of Samoa, a Pacific island impacted by rising seas, added that discussions are progressing, and we hope to get there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sehr Raheja from New Delhi-based Centre for Science and Environment said countries have gone for the lowest hanging fruit so far" and said developed nations will have to engage in good faith on the issues of total money needed if there's a chance of getting a strong outcome. Climate Analytics CEO Bill Hare called for more urgency from the talks. Despite the recent devastation the world has experienced and the soaring rise in temperatures, the urgency really hasnt yet been felt here in Baku, he said. ___ The Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. Leading Indian American Industrialist Shalabh Kumar took to social media to post a video of members of the Hindu faith celebrating Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 US Presidential elections by gathering together at the YMCA in Chicago. In a post on the social media platform X, Kumar wrote, "Last night 1500 Hindus, members of Republican Hindu Coalition danced to YMCA celebrating Trump 2.0 victory at Maharana Pratap Ronald Reagan community center in Carol Stream, Chicago". The event saw people gathered in large numbers and joyously celebrating Donald Trump's historic victory in the Presidential Elections. In his post he noted that the 2024 US Presidential elections told that more than 85 per cent of Hindus in America, making a number over 300,000 in key states of Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin voted for Trump, thereby "giving him a margin of victory of 240K", according to Shalabh Shalli Kumar. He expressed confidence in further cementing of India-US ties by noting, "There is no question, this landslide changes the course of world for decades to come. Bharat and America Sabse Acche Dost". https://x.com/iamshalabhkumar/status/1857848185898533281 Industrialist Shalabh "Shalli" Kumar, founder of the Republican Hindu Coalition, had previously too expressed elation over Donald Trump's significant victory in the 2024 US Presidential elections. Earlier in his remarks to ANI, Kumar had highlighted the strength of Trump's support, particularly among Hindu Americans, stating, "Our party is most elated about the fact that the victory was not just a thousand votes. The victory was hundreds of thousands of votes in every place. Kumar attributed Trump's success in part to a focused last-minute campaign targeting Hindu American voters, specifically in key battleground states. "It was our goal to at least switch over 200,000 Hindu votes from Kamala to Trump in the battleground states of Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin, and that's what happened," he said. Kumar credited the momentum to a critical tweet on Diwali, which, he noted, "changed everything" and enabled a targeted media push. "We were successful in educating the Hindu Americans about who Kamala really is. She is only half Hindu... and she's friendly towards [leftist ideologies]," he added, stressing his belief that Harris's political philosophy was "very much to the left." Kumar highlighted the coalition's efforts, describing a five-day media blitz of 900 commercials aimed at informing Hindu Americans of their stance, saying, "We also brought out the fact that she is a Marxist... and a communist sympathiser." In his view, this strategic outreach significantly bolstered Trump's support among Hindu American voters, contributing to what he called a "great victory" for the Republican Party. (ANI) TAMAQUA A Liberty Tree will be planted in the borough in celebration of the nations 250th anniversary in 2026, officials announced Friday. Micah Gursky, Tamaqua Community Partnership director, said the tree will be planted in a park along Railroad Street, Route 309, across from the historic Tamaqua Railroad Station. Three blighted properties will be demolished to make way for Tamaqua Liberty Tree Park, where the tree will be planted in Fall 2025, Gursky said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The announcement came at a news conference attended by state and local officials in a parking lot across from the prospective park. * Larry Padora, Schuylkill County Commissioners Chairman, speaks at Fridays announcement about the Tamaqua Liberty Tree Park that will be built at the site of three blighted buildings. DAVID MCKEOWN / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR * Joe Martoccio, District Grand Master 45th Masonic District of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, speaks on Friday about plans for Tamaqua Liberty Tree Park. The park will take the place of the blighted buildings, seen behind Martoccio. DAVID MCKEOWN / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Joe Martoccio speaks Friday during the announcement for the Tamaqua Liberty Tree Park coming soon. DAVID MCKEOWN / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Show Caption 1 of 3 Larry Padora, Schuylkill County Commissioners Chairman, speaks at Fridays announcement about the Tamaqua Liberty Tree Park that will be built at the site of three blighted buildings. DAVID MCKEOWN / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Expand State Rep. Jamie Barton, R-124, East Brunswick Twp., said colonists involved in the American Revolution gathered under the original Liberty Tree in Massachusetts. They gathered to fight for freedom and liberty, he said, and the tree became a beacon of hope and a symbol of American freedom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is Schuylkill Countys own Liberty Tree, Barton declared. As we prepare to celebrate Americas 250th anniversary, the tree will continue to serve as a symbol of those freedoms we still enjoy. Joseph G. Martoccio, district director, said the Masonic Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania and America250PA, the states official anniversary organization, are overseeing the planting of a Liberty Tree in all 67 counties. The last surviving Liberty Tree of the 13 original colonies was a tulip poplar on the campus of St. Johns College in Annapolis, Maryland. It was destroyed by Hurricane Floyd in 1999. The Liberty Trees to be planted in honor of the nations 250th anniversary, Martoccio said, are seedlings from the last tree. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These trees were not only a symbol of the past, he said, but were planting them as a symbol of our future. Tamaqua, Martoccio said, is the only community making a park for its Liberty Tree that he is aware of. Tamaqua was chosen as the site for Schuylkill Countys Liberty Tree, he said, largely because of its proximity to historic sites, including the site of Fort Franklin at the base of Blue Mountain and the historic Tamaqua Railroad Station, which was honored with a U.S. Postal Service stamp in 2023. State Sen. David G. Argall, R-29, Rush Twp., suggested the restoration of the Tamaqua Railroad Station played a key role in Tamaquas development. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The station, which was deteriorating, was restored 20 years ago by a committee of dedicated citizens. A classic Victorian style building, it was built 150 years ago by the Reading Railroad, and served as a departure point for local troops serving in World Wars I and II. That was the spark, Argall said, that led to so many other great things. Eric Zizelmann, chairman, said the Liberty Tree Park Committee found out about the Liberty Tree initiative about a year ago. After submitting an application, the committee was notified Tamaqua had been selected several weeks ago. I know it seems like its just one tree, whats the big deal, said Zizelmann, a Tamaqua funeral director. But what this tree represents is as big as the whole country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brian Connely, Tamaqua borough council president, said Schuylkill County demolition funds helped bring down blighted properties, eyesores at the entrance to the boroughs downtown. Schuylkill County Commissioners Larry Padora, chairman, Barron L. Boots Hetherington and Gary J. Hess spoke of the countys dedication to removing blighted properties. Padora, a Tamaqua native, said he was proud to have a Liberty Tree in his hometown. It seems fitting, he said, that a tree be planted in honor of the countrys founding and to remember what it means. Unveiling a new Tamaqua Liberty Tree Park banner, Gursky said funds had been raised to purchase the blighted properties. They will be demolished with county funds, he said, but organizers must still raise funds to build the park. This is just the beginning, he said. Were going to have to pull together to make this park something that future generations can be proud of. DAR ES SALAAM (Reuters) - At least 13 people died when a building collapsed in Tanzania's commercial capital Dar es Salaam and more than 80 people have been rescued, the country's president said on Sunday. The four-storey building in eastern Dar es Salaam's Kariakoo market came down on Saturday around 9 a.m. (0600 GMT). In an address, President Samia Suluhu Hassan said more than 80 people were rescued and rushed to hospitals. Twenty-six of them were still hospitalised, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said the government would cover treatment costs and help with burial arrangements. Building collapses occur in some African cities due to weak construction standards or lax enforcement. (Reporting by Nuzulack Dausen; Editing by Elias Biryabarema and Cynthia Osterman) BAKU, Azerbaijan (AP) Agreements might not yet be brewing amongst negotiators at United Nations climate talks, but tea certainly is. It's one of the clearest reminders that the climate summit COP29 is hosted by Azerbaijan. Attendees who roam for miles within the indoor venue have ample options to take a pit stop for sugar and caffeine: shops stack high mountains of pastries with sugary, nutty pakhlava and cardamom-tinged, crescent-shaped shekerbura. At Azerbaijan's country pavilion, women in Baku's traditional dress pour the warm drink for visitors. All of it, like daily life in the city outside, revolves around tea which climate change threatens around the globe. As world leaders descend on the capital city of Baku for climate talks, researchers who study tea report that in some regions around the world, tea cultivation could decrease by over half as rising temperatures, drought, heavy precipitation and erosion batter tea plants and the land they grow on. Scientists are studying ways to improve tea varieties and preparing for a future where some tea production moves north, along with many other crops hard hit by climate change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tea "is a source of livelihood for our region; especially for the local people, for tea producers," said Keziban Yazici, a professor who has been studying the effects of climate change on tea, speaking in Turkish. We need to take the necessary precautions against climate change to make this product sustainable." Their team has been working on developing drought-resistant tea varieties and protecting the tea gene pool at Recep Tayyip Erdogan University in Rize, Turkey, one of the major tea-producing areas in the Caucasus region. Yazici traveled to Azerbaijan this spring to initiate further cooperation between the countries which have many similarities in tea culture and growing on preparing tea crops for the threat of climate change. The perilous future of this beloved drink serves as a reminder that if the world fails to meet the global warming goals set in the Paris Agreement, many places around the world stand to grieve not just lives and livelihoods, but also treasured elements of cultural heritage. Culture and the future has to be aligned," said Fatima Fataliyeva, the senior sustainability manager for the COP29 operation company, who was responsible for the design of the Azerbaijan pavilion at the venue. My mom taught me this, so I will (teach) my kids, so it doesn't disappear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fataliyeva described the importance for her team of including Azerbaijani culture at the venue. The first thing that comes to your attention, she said, is tea. From an early age, she learned that drinking tea symbolized hospitality and respect. Tea is for drinking with family and friends, in the home and out on dates. It's central in gossiping and matchmaking, for grandpas playing chess, on festivals and in times of mourning. People drink it from pear-shaped glasses called armudu that keep the bottom of the tea warm while cooling the top, sometimes served with a wedge of orange or lemon and a lump of boiled sugar. When you are happy, you drink tea. When you are sad, you drink tea, said Levent Kurnaz, a professor who studies climate change and ways of combatting invasive pests that are likely to cause increasing harm to tea plants. Kurnaz attended COP29 in part because he saw it as an important way to communicate about climate change a topic he says isn't talked about as widely in Turkey and Azerbaijan but that is already slamming the few subject-matter experts in the region with a vast array of problems, present and future, in fields ranging from agriculture to immigration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Climate change will affect this region seriously, Kurnaz said, especially for farmers, many of them women, who have grown tea all their lives. They dont have a clue what to do when tea production goes sour. But at some point it will." Azerbaijan is 25th on the list of top crude oil exporting countries and one of the birthplaces of the oil industry, one of leading sources of planet-warming carbon dioxide emissions. The country is planning to hike its fossil fuel production over the next decade to meet demand from Europe, and their oil production has been a point of controversy since the beginning of this COP. But President Ilham Aliyev said earlier this year that the country is an phase of transition toward clean energy, while maintaining the world continues to need fossil fuels to develop in the foreseeable future. For ordinary people as well as producers, climate change and choices about food and drink are intertwined. That's evident to Rauf Shikhaliyev, who owns a vegetarian and vegan restaurant in Baku called De Rama, also included in the COP29 venue food court. He felt it was very important to participate" at the climate talks because his project of creating a vegetarian restaurant was highly linked to climate change, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added that after years in the restaurant business, he's seen the tea culture firsthand: before they order food, many locals will first order tea. It's fitting for the U.N.: Tea drinking makes people get kind of united, he said. ___ Frazer reported from Ankara, Turkey. ___ Follow Melina Walling on X, formerly known as Twitter, @MelinaWalling. ___ The Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. PICKENS COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) A teen was found shot to death at a motel early Saturday morning in Pickens County. The Pickens County Coroners Office identified 17-year-old Robert Preston Crawford as the teen who was shot and killed at the Sun Inn Motel at 4237 Calhoun Memorial Highway in Easley. Deputies with the Pickens County Sheriffs Office responded shortly after midnight to the motel. Upon arrival, authorities found an open door to one of the motel rooms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies entered the room and found Crawford unresponsive on the floor. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The coroners office has ruled Crawfords death as a homicide. The sheriffs office said the murder is in the early stages of the investigation but believes the shooting is an isolated incident and there is no threat to the public. Law enforcement did not share if any arrest(s) have been made at this time. Anyone with information regarding Crawfords death is asked to call the Pickens County Sheriffs Office at (864) 898-5500 or Crimestoppers at 1-888-CRIMESC. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. A teenager was shot and killed late Friday at a South Carolina motel, according to the Pickens County Coroners Office. Robert Preston Crawford, 17, was shot at the Sun Inn in the 4000 block of Calhoun Memorial Highway in Easley, Coroner Kandy Kelly said in a news release. Crawford died at the scene, according to the release. No other injuries were reported. Kelly called the teens death a homicide. There was no word about a shooter or shooters, or whether anyone else was involved in the gunfire. Information about a motive for the shooting was not available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No arrests have been reported by the Pickens County Sheriffs Office, which is investigating the death. Anyone with information on the shooting is asked to call CrimeStoppers at 864-232-7463, or submit an online tip. Cesare Mencarini, a 17-year-old Italian student at Cardiff Sixth Form College, has become the first person to create a working fusion reactor in a school setting, Interesting Engineering reported. Mencarini spent 18 months constructing the reactor as part of his A-levels (advanced coursework in U.K. schools). He achieved plasma in June and later showcased the project at the Cambridge Science Festival, IE revealed. Mencarini received an A* in his A-level results. When Mencarini first presented the idea to create a fusion reactor, there was resistance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The college was initially concerned that this project, which I have also used for my EPQ, was dangerous," Mencarini told The Mirror, per IE. "However, we did full risk assessments, and the staff have been so supportive." The fusion reaction mimics the one that occurs inside the sun. However, since Mencarini's device can't achieve the sun's level of pressure, it needed to get much hotter. Mencarini used a high voltage of electricity to reach the right conditions for fusion a process that, in theory, could provide abundant clean energy for the world if realized at scale. Experts have called for a transition away from dirty fuels such as gas, oil, and coal because they are the primary cause of the dangerous rise of global temperatures linked to more intense and frequent extreme weather and food insecurity, among other things. In an exclusive interview with the Galactic Explorer, Mencarini spoke about his motivations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I thought that, as a student, I could be an inspiration for other people, especially for the young generation because we need to push them forward, to reach new boundaries," he said. "It was also a way to convince people of my generation, my peers, to take on difficult projects, outside of their comfort zones." Julian Davies, principal of Mencarini's college, said, "We want to give our students the opportunity to work on projects that interest them as well as teaching them how to pass exams and to be brave in enabling them to take risks and develop projects that are applicable to real life situations," per the Daily Mail. Should the government be paying us to upgrade our homes? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind "Cesare has been outstanding in his work ethic and will no doubt make a significant impact on the energy industry in the future," Davies added. In the future, Mencarini intends to work at the University of Bristol's Interface Analysis Centre before pursuing a degree in engineering, according to IE. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill and Gov. Jeff Landry stand among displays that they say comply with a new state law that requires the Ten Commandments to be posted in every public school classroom. (Piper Hutchinson/Louisiana Illuminator) A federal judges order that blocks a Louisiana law requiring Ten Commandments displays to go up in classrooms doesnt apply to the school districts that arent defending it, a 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals panel has ruled. Attorney General Liz Murrill, who is defending the law that the Legislature and Gov. Jeff Landry approved earlier this year, filed an appeal after U.S. District Judge John deGravelles issued an order Tuesday that stopped the law from going into effect Jan. 1. In his 177-page ruling, the judge said the state wasnt likely to win the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2-1 ruling, a 5th Circuit panel agreed with Murrill that deGravelles decision should not apply to Louisianas other 68 public school districts. Judges Kurt Engelhardt, a federal court nominee of former President Donald Trump, and Jerry Smith, an appointee of former President Ronald Reagan, ruled in Murrills favor. Judge James Graves, a court pick of former President Barack Obama, wanted to deny the stay. deGravelles, who is also an Obama appointee to the federal court, had said in his ruling that all 72 school districts should be notified of his ruling. On social media Friday, Murrill celebrated the appellate courts granting her motion. She had argued deGravelles ruling should only apply to the five school districts who are defendants in the lawsuit nine plaintiff parents have filed, arguing that placing the Ten Commandments in classrooms violates the U.S. Constitution. I look forward to immediately working with all of our school boards who are not involved in this lawsuit to implement the law soon! Murrill posted on X, formerly Twitter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The parish public school districts named as defendants in the case are East Baton Rouge, Livingston, Orleans, St. Tammany and Vernon. Education Superintendent Cade Brumley and Board of Elementary and Secondary Education members are also defendants. Two of the groups representing plaintiffs in the cast the ACLU of Louisiana and Americans United for Separation of Church and State consider the 5th Circuit order a minor procedural issue, according to the Associated Press. The new law requires 11-by-14-inch displays along with an accompanying context statement that explains the commandments role in education. It applies to any school that accepts state money, including colleges and universities. The schools are not compelled to spend money on the posters though they can accept donated materials. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE After Alyssa Burkett was murdered, detectives quickly learned that the prime suspect was the father of her child, Andrew Beard. But as the investigation unfolded, they would find out that Beard wasn't the only one involved in the murder plot. Take a look inside the investigation. Oct. 2, 2020 | 9 a.m. On the morning of Oct. 2, 2020, Alyssa Burkett parked outside the Greentree Apartments leasing office when a man in a black Ford Expedition pulled into the spot next to her. He got out of his SUV and shot Burkett through the driver's side window. / Credit: Carrollton Police Department Shortly after 24-year-old Alyssa Burkett pulled into her parking space at work in Carrollton, Texas, a man with a gun shot her in the head through her car window and fled. On a window at the Greentree Apartments leasing office Burkett survived the gun blast, got out of her car and tried to get help. Her bloody hand left a print on the office window. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The assailant saw Burkett running and chased after her. He stabbed and slashed Alyssa 44 times and left the scene in his black SUV. Andrew Beard, left, and Alyssa Burkett with their daughter Willow. / Credit: Lizatte Bowers/Alyssa Burkett, Facebook When Burkett's mother, Teresa Collard, arrived at the scene, she immediately gave detectives a name: Andrew Beard. Beard was the father of Burkett's 1-year-old child, Willow. Oct. 2, 2020 | 12 p.m. Andrew Beard, right, is seen with an officer in a resized still from police bodycam video during a stop for an alleged traffic violation on the day Alyssa Burkett was killed. / Credit: Carrollton Police Department Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hours after the murder, police officers stopped Beard in his white Ford F-150 pickup truck. His fiancee, Holly Elkins, and baby Willow were with him. Beard was told he could leave the scene, but he couldn't return home. Officers also seized his pickup truck. Oct. 2, 2020 | 9 p.m. A tracking device found on Alyssa Burkett's car. / Credit: Carrollton Police Department Later that night, police searched Beard's home and found a GPS tracker battery and charging stations that matched a tracking device detectives discovered under Burkett's car earlier that day. The gun silencer found in Andrew Beard's home. / Credit: Carrollton Police Department Investigators also uncovered what they believed to be an unregistered gun silencer. Oct. 3, 2020 | 12 p.m. Vials of dark colored makeup and a pair of cut up hiking boots were found during a search of Andrew Beard's pickup truck. / Credit: Carrollton Police Department The next day, detectives searched Beard's white F-150 pickup truck and found a backpack. Inside, they uncovered two bottles of dark brown makeup, and a pair of men's hiking boots that had been cut into pieces and were soaking in bleach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oct. 3, 2020 Police learned Andrew Beard had bought the black SUV specifically to commit the murder. / Credit: Carrollton Police Department Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later that night, police located that black Ford SUV the assailant drove to the scene. It was found abandoned less than a mile from Beard's house. During a search of Andrew Beard's SUV, Carrollton Police found part of his disguise: a fake beard. / Credit: Carrolton Police Department When detectives searched the SUV, they found a fake beard smeared with dark brown makeup. Oct. 5, 2020 Three days after Alyssa Burkett was killed, Beard turned himself in to Carrolton, Texas, police. / Credit: Carrolton Police Department When Beard learned there was a warrant for his arrest, he turned himself in to the Carrollton Police Department. He was charged with murder. Oct. 6, 2020 Beard's fiancee, Holly Elkins, voluntarily went to speak with detectives at the Carrollton Police Department. Holly Elkins is interviewed by Carrollton Police detectives Jeremy Chevallier and Michael Harding. / Credit: Carrolton Police Department During the interview, Elkins told investigators that Beard was at home with her on the morning of the murder. She also described herself as a "stage 5 clinger girlfriend," and said she would have known if Beard left the house that morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oct. 6, 2020 | 1:30 p.m. Some of Holly Elkins' internet searches. / Credit: Carrollton Police Department Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After her interview, investigators said Elkins made the following internet searches: "Can I not be brought to court if I have a psychiatrist note?" "vulnerable patients going to court" "contact psychiatrist in Dallas" "Can I not be subpoenaed to jail if I have a mental issue?" Oct. 29, 2020 Beard spent two weeks behind bars before he was released on bond. Carrollton Police Det. Jeremy Chevallier said he was worried about baby Willow's safety, so he reached out to the federal government to take the case under federal firearm laws. Because detectives found an unregistered silencer during the search of Beard's home, the federal government agreed to take the case. Andrew Beard was rearrested and charged with cyberstalking using a dangerous weapon resulting in death. / Credit: Carrollton Police Department Eight days after he bonded out, Beard was rearrested and ultimately charged with cyberstalking using a dangerous weapon resulting in death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement July 15, 2022 In June 2022, Beard pleaded guilty to cyberstalking and using a dangerous weapon resulting in death. A year and nine months after Alyssa Burkett was killed, Andrew Beard spoke to the FBI as part of a plea deal. / Credit: FBI One month later, he spoke to the FBI as part of a plea deal. And he had a lot to say about Elkins' involvement in Burkett's murder. "It was'this is how you're gonna do this,' it was, ' you're gonna wear this dark makeup ' That was her planthat's how it's gonna be done," Beard told the FBI. May 24, 2023 Beard was sentenced to 43 years in federal prison. June 21, 2023 After speaking with Beard, the FBI spent about a year building a case against Elkins. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators found internet searches and a Walgreens receipt that connected her to the crime. Text messages between Holly Elkins and Andrew Beard. / Credit: Carrollton Police Department They also dug into text messages between Elkins and Beard. In a text sent to Beard one week before Burkett's murder, Elkins wrote, "I hope you handle it I'm not coming home to b**s***" Elkins was indicted on three charges: conspiracy to stalk, stalking using a dangerous weapon resulting in serious bodily injury and death and brandishing a firearm in relation to a crime of violence. July 6, 2023 Holly Elkins was arrested by federal agents almost three years after Alyssa Burkett's death. / Credit: Johnson County Sheriff's Office Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elkins was arrested at the Miami airport by federal agents after returning from a trip to the Dominican Republic. April 9 16, 2024 Andrew Beard and Holly Elkins with Willow, the daughter Beard shared with Alyssa Burkett. / Credit: Lizette Bowers Elkins' trial began at the federal courthouse in downtown Dallas. After six days, the case went to the jury. April 17, 2024 Holly Elkins / Credit: Stephen Green The jury deliberated for about an hour-and-a-half before they found Elkins guilty on all counts. On Aug. 15, 2024, Elkins was sentenced to two life terms. Trump defense secretary pick Pete Hegseth was probed for alleged sexual assault in 2017 House Ethics Committee cancels meeting on Gaetz investigation Mike Tyson returns to boxing ring to take on Jake Paul Melissa Elizabeth Lucio was previously convicted in the death of her 2-year-old daughter, Mariah Alvarez, in 2008 Courtesy Innocence Project Melissa Lucio Melissa Lucio A Texas judge said that a mother who has been on death row since 2008 over the death of her toddler is "actually innocent," with a decision on her release now in the hands of Texass Court of Criminal Appeals. Melissa Elizabeth Lucio has been on death row for over a decade after being convicted of capital murder in the February 2007 death of her 2-year-old daughter, Mariah Alvarez. Lucio's lawyers have argued that the girl's death and injuries were caused by an accidental fall down a set of stairs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Back in April, Senior Judge Arturo Nelson called for Lucio's conviction and death sentence to be overturned in a 33-page court document obtained by PEOPLE at the time, arguing that evidence was suppressed at her trial. Now, Nelson who oversaw the trial is sharing in a new ruling, signed over two years after the mother's execution was issued, that Lucio, 56, is "actually innocent" and "did not kill her daughter." The Oct. 16 document was made public this week via the Innocence Project, which has taken on Lucio's case. Related: She Was Set to Be Executed in Daughter's Death. Now Prosecutors and Judge Say It Was Accident, Not Murder Courtesy Innocence Project Melissa Lucio Melissa Lucio Lucio who has been supported by advocates such as Kim Kardashian was originally slated for execution on April 27, 2022, but her case was brought to a stop based on an alleged suppression of material evidence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following Nelson's latest filing, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals will next decide whether the mother's conviction and sentence will be overturned. This is the best news we could get going into the holidays, Lucio's son and daughter-in-law, John and Michelle Lucio, said in a statement provided by the Innocence Project. We pray our mother will be home soon," they added. Per Nelson's ruling, there is "clear and convincing evidence that Mariah fell on some stairs two days before she died, just as Applicant told police," as well as evidence that "Mariah's extensive bruising was not caused by abuse but rather a complication of her fall." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nelson also found that there was "clear and convincing evidence" that the girl's "fatal head injury" was caused by the fall. Related: Texas Mom on Death Row Is Granted Stay of Execution, and New Evidence in Child's Death Will Be Reviewed Denise Cathey/The Brownsville Herald via AP Melissa Lucio's sons Robert Alvarez, John Lucio and Lucio's wife Michelle address a crowd on April 27, 2022 Melissa Lucio's sons Robert Alvarez, John Lucio and Lucio's wife Michelle address a crowd on April 27, 2022 Evidence that could have proved that Mariah fell down the stairs two days before her death was withheld, per the ruling, including interviews with Lucio's other children who said their sister fell down the stairs and that their mother was not abusive. (Once piece of evidence that was previously suppressed included a Child Protective Services report detailing interviews with five of Lucio's children.) Some of the accounts from Lucio's children also said that their sister had "declining health" in the days between her fall and her death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This Court finds that, after several hours of police interrogation during which she initially insisted she was innocent and did not know how her daughter died, Applicant ultimately told officers that she had slapped, pinched, and bitten Mariah and agreed that she was 'responsible' for what happened," the filing said. "The Court finds that Applicant never made an express admission to causing her daughters death. The Court finds that Applicants admissions were, however, relied on by the State at trial as critical piece of evidence establishing her guilt." Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. Nelson wrote last month that the court found Lucio "has satisfied her burden and produced clear and convincing evidence that she is actually innocent of the offense of capital murder," explaining that the state's medical examiner at the murder trial was incorrect in concluding that "physical abuse was the only explanation" for the young girl's death. Vanessa Potkin, director of special litigation at the Innocence Project and an attorney for Lucio, said in a statement that her client "lived every parents nightmare when she lost her daughter after a tragic accident." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She told CNN that there is "no time frame within which the [Criminal Court of Appeals] has to decide a case that is submitted to them." "It became a nightmare from which she couldnt wake up when she was sent to death row for a crime that never happened," she added. "After 16 years on death row, its time for the nightmare to end. Melissa should be home right now with her children and grandchildren." The Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) has sparked widespread criticism from digital rights advocates, lawmakers, and religious scholars after its chief, Raghib Naeemi, declared the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) for accessing "immoral or illegal content" as un-Islamic. The statement has been described by critics as an overreach, with claims it aligns with broader attempts to curb free expression under the guise of religious justification, Dawn reported. Naeemi's remarks, made on Friday, framed the use of VPNs for accessing inappropriate material as contrary to Sharia law. However, a CII member clarified that this was not an official council decision but Dr. Naeemi's personal viewpoint. "Watching immoral content by using technology cannot be categorised as a religious issue," the member said. Critics, including telecom experts and rights activists, argue the decree targets freedom of expression and privacy rather than addressing genuine moral concerns. Prominent religious scholar Maulana Tariq Jameel questioned the logic of targeting VPNs, pointing out, "If watching adult content or blasphemous material was an issue, then mobile phones should be declared un-Islamic before labelling VPNs as such." Nighat Dad, the Executive Director of the Digital Rights Foundation, called the decree "contradictory" to constitutional privacy rights and argued it aims to stifle dissent on social media. Lawmakers have also joined the criticism. Senator Palwasha Khan, chairperson of the Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecom, has scheduled a meeting on November 18 to discuss restrictions on VPNs. She raised concerns about whether the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) intends to monitor users' online activity. Senator Allama Nasir Abbas of the Majlis Wahdat Muslimeen (MWM) accused the country's leadership of using laws and decrees "as per their whims," labelling them as representatives of a "corrupt elite," reported Dawn. Meanwhile, the PTA has reiterated its requirements for commercial VPN users to register their services. According to its latest statement, entities such as software houses, call centres, banks, embassies, and freelancers must complete the free online registration process by submitting documentation such as CNICs, company registration details, and employer verification. PTA claims to have processed over 20,000 registrations so far, with approvals typically granted within 8 to 10 days, Dawn reported. As debates intensify, the decree has ignited broader discussions about the intersection of technology, governance, and religious principles in Pakistan, raising concerns about the implications for digital privacy and freedom of expression. (ANI) (NewsNation) With President-elect Donald Trump returning to the White House, Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick have signaled openness to cutting the states spending on border security, the Texas Tribune reported. The former president has continuously hinted at several actions he plans to take when he returns to office, key among them being mass deportation. Abbott told reporters last week that Texas will have the opportunity to consider repurposing the state money it has plowed into Operation Lone Star. Texas has allocated $11 billion to Operation Lone Star since it launched in 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donald Trumps new administration: Who has he chosen so far? Abbotts office had asked lawmakers to approve another $2.9 billion in the upcoming legislative session and now says OLS money could be used for things like property tax cuts or education, the Texas Tribune reports. President Trump will provide a more secure border than any president in the history of the United States of America, Abbott said a day after the election. Ive had private talks with the president, and hes going to be stronger and better at securing the border than he was in his first term, which was very strong and effective. Trump taps fracking CEO Chris Wright for Energy secretary Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Patrick, another top elected official in Texas, said that Trumps victory could mean shifting spending priorities for the state. We had to do everything we could to protect our citizens, Patrick said in an interview with WFAA-TV in Dallas. Were going to be able to take a lot of that money now and put it back to our taxpayers, for roads, for water, for education, for health care, for all the things that we need that Joe Biden forced us to spend because he was letting millions of people cross the border. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. Texas Republican to propose House committee targeting cartels (NewsNation) Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, plans to introduce legislation establishing a House select committee aimed at combating Mexican drug cartels when the Trump administration takes office in January. The proposed bill would authorize the use of military force specifically against the Sinaloa and Jalisco cartels, though not against Mexico itself. The legislation would expand presidential powers to target cartel operations through intelligence, surveillance and cyber capabilities. The cartels are the greatest near-term threat. Full stop. President Trump agrees, Crenshaw stated on social media. The Texas congressman, who leads the House Cartel Task Force, emphasized that a select committee would improve chances of moving anti-cartel legislation to the House floor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Homan outlines enforcement priorities as Trumps border czar The push for expanded powers comes after recent high-profile arrests of cartel leaders. U.S. authorities have apprehended Sinaloa Cartel co-founder Ismael El Mayo Zambada and Joaquin Guzman Lopez, son of notorious kingpin El Chapo. Both men allegedly oversaw drug trafficking operations, including fentanyl distribution to the United States. I lead the House Cartel Task Force. We have solutions. But we dont have any authority. A select committee will have a better chance of moving these bills to the House floor and to a president who will sign them, Crenshaw wrote in a post on X. However, the initiative faces significant diplomatic hurdles. Mexican officials maintain their long-standing position against allowing U.S. military or special forces to operate on Mexican soil in anti-cartel operations. The lack of Mexican cooperation could complicate enforcement efforts if the legislation passes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Texas authorities on high alert for pre-Trump immigration surge Crenshaw argues the measure would align House Republicans with Trumps aggressive anti-cartel agenda. The congressman cited concerns about cartel influence in Mexican politics and their expanding operational reach. The proposal comes amid a heightened focus on border security and drug trafficking as primary issues for the incoming administration. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. The famed black-and-white 1941 photograph of a glowering Sir Winston Churchill was the perfect finishing touch to Nicola Cassinellis modest living room. A prominent lawyer and passionate small-scale art collector who had just bought an apartment in Genoa, Italy, Mr Cassinelli, 34, was searching for the right piece to hang on a small corner wall near his bookcase when he stumbled upon the signed copy of Roaring Lion for sale in Sothebys online catalogue in May 2022. It immediately grabbed my attention, not just for its beauty but because I am fascinated with the figure of Winston Churchill, Mr Cassinelli told The Telegraph in an interview on Sunday. This was the emblematic photo that captured his anger, the strength of the free world good that triumphs over evil. Its historic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He made a 4,200 bid and to his surprise, won it. Two weeks and 2,000 in customs, shipping and tax charges later, it was hanging proudly in his apartment. I showed it to all my guests and was really happy with it. What he and Sothebys did not know, however, was that the photograph was not a signed copy. Instead it was the original, taken by photographer Yousuf Karsh and possibly worth millions, which had been stolen from the hotel lobby of Ottawas Fairmont Fairmont Chateau Laurier in January 2022 and trafficked to Europe. Mr Cassinelli has now returned the photograph, which from today will once again be on display in the Ottawa hotel for the public, behind a protective glass panel and newly watched over by sensors and security cameras. The photos trip to the Carabinieri - NICOLA CASSINELLI After more than two years, I stand before you to celebrate the return of our iconic portrait, said Genevieve Dumas, the hotels general manager, on Friday. We extend our gratitude to Ottawa police services, international law enforcement, Mr Nicola Cassinelli, and all who are contributing to its return. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mayor Mark Sutcliffe called the return of the Roaring Lion photograph a remarkable day for Ottawa. It marks the end of an art heist mystery that required the persistence of Ottawa detectives, and the goodwill of Mr Cassinelli, to resolve. Three months after his purchase, Mr Cassinelli got a call from Sothebys asking him not to sell or transfer the work to any third parties as an investigation was under way. A few Google searches later, he realised he was unwittingly embroiled in the Canadian art heist mystery of the century. And so I just waited, and all my friends and guests who came to my house, we would joke about having such an important piece of artwork right before our eyes, Mr Cassinelli told the Telegraph. Like having a Mona Lisa because I paid a few thousand pounds but online I had read it was worth millions. It was as if I was in a film. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then, a year ago, an email came from Sothebys legal office asking to share his contact details with Canadian police, who, in a video call, told him the whole story and asked him to consider returning it, though his purchase was in good faith and hence he was not obliged. The $100 poster on Mr Cassinellis wall today - NICOLA CASSINELLI I had trusted one of the most important auction houses in the world, and at the time it had not even been reported stolen, so mine was a legitimate purchase. For decades, the print from the original negative, signed by the photographer Yousuf Karsh, hung bolted to wood-panelled walls in the reading lounge of the hotel in Ottawa, Canada. It was a tourist attraction and visitors often snapped photos of themselves in front of it. In the summer of 2022, a hotel employee noticed the picture was hanging unusually and estate managers realised it was a fake Karshs signature was forged. Appeals were made to the public to send in photos, allowing detectives to narrow down the window of when the swap happened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To erase any doubts that his was the trafficked photo, Mr Cassinelli contacted Italys Carabinieri art fraud unit, who agreed to take it in for analysis. The day after I handed it over, I went online and bought a cheap $100 poster of the same photograph and put it in the same spot, said Mr Cassinelli. Ottawa detectives then joined forces with the Metropolitan Police and the Italian Carabinieri to search for the photo, with help of public tips, forensic analysis and international cooperation using open-source research to identify a suspect. Jeffrey Iain James Wood, from Powassan, Ontario, was arrested and is facing several charges, including forgery, theft and trafficking. Nicola Cassinelli poses alongside Isabelle Mondou, a Canadian cultural heritage minister, and Elissa Golberg, Canadas ambassador to Italy - REUTERS The story behind the photo is legendary. Karsh, originally from Armenia, made Ottawa his home from 1924 until the 1990s and lived for many years in the hotel. He took pictures of 14,312 people in his career, including Queen Elizabeth II and her father King George VI, Lord Louis Mountbatten, Eleanor Roosevelt, Eisenhower, Charles de Gaulle, Karl Jung and King Faisal, among others. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But it was the black and white portrait of Churchill, snapped in 1941 while the 67-year-old leader was waiting to finish his speech to the Canadian parliament, that brought Karsh international fame. In his book, Karsh describes how Churchill didnt want his picture taken and began chomping on a cigar, but said Karsh could take one photograph. I held out an ashtray, but he would not dispose of it. I went back to my camera and made sure that everything was all right technically. I waited; he continued to chomp vigorously at his cigar. I waited. Then I stepped toward him and, without premeditation, but ever so respectfully, I said, Forgive me, sir, and plucked the cigar out of his mouth. By the time I got back to my camera, he looked so belligerent he could have devoured me. It was at that instant that I took the photograph. It was said that an annoyed Churchill exclaimed You can even make a roaring lion stand still to be photographed hence Karshs title for the photo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since 2013, it is the picture on the Bank of Englands 5 note. It was right to return it Though invited as a special guest, Mr Cassinelli regretted he was unable to attend this weeks unveiling in Canada. I promised myself to one day go to Ottawa to see my photograph in the place where I know it should stay, because it had been gifted to the hotel by Yousuf Karsh, it is only right that it remains there. Sothebys reimbursed the purchase and some legal expenses, but Mr Cassinelli still ended up losing a few thousand euros. That, he said, doesnt matter. I like art and I like to collect. I am not in it to be speculative. Had I decided not to return it perhaps there would have been a big compensation worth its actual value, but there was an entire nation searching for it. I just felt it was right to return it. Being Italian, we have had many pieces of art stolen from us, the Mona Lisa in fact has never been given back by France and I know how painful this can be for a populace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the meantime, Mr Cassinellis fascination with Churchill continues. He recently went to visit Churchills residence in London where an exhibition was also displaying a cheap copy, not even as nice as the one hanging in his home. I am happy about my poster. It is not signed of course, but I have told the story many times and it always fascinates and entertains my guests. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Three deputies and a woman were taken to the hospital after a house fire in Millington early Sunday morning, the Shelby County Sheriffs County announced. Around 1:25 a.m., deputies responded to a house fire in the 5700 block of Port Haven Drive near Millington. When they arrived at the scene, they were informed that a bedridden woman was still inside the home and unable to escape. Deputies arrived before the Fire Department, and with the woman still inside, three deputies quickly entered the smoke-filled house to search for her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Second man arrested in connection to stereo store burglary They found the woman and carried her out of the home safely. Soon as they got here they rushed in and assisted my wife out, said Mayes Edgar. While inside, both the woman and the deputies suffered from smoke inhalation. The women and deputies were transported by ambulance to Methodist North Hospital in non-critical condition. The deputies were treated and released from the hospital. She do have a breathing problem and so, they just wanted to make sure nothing was wrong with her, Edgar said. Shelby County Fire arrived and quickly extinguished the fire in the kitchen before the fire could spread to the rest of the house. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are a couple of cabins over there. So, the microwave and the oven, Edgar said. You know how they do, make sure there are no hotspots and stuff and so that cause a little additional damage. Edgar and his family will be able to return to their home. Edgar says his wife is now home resting. Dont leave skillets on the stove unattended, Edgar warns. And if you do make sure you turn them off. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. ALTON, Ill. Authorities say three people were hurt in an overnight shooting at a home in Alton, Illinois. The Alton Police Department reports that three people were shot while inside a home in the 1000 block of Tremont Street. The shooting happened just before midnight Saturday. All three victims were sent to hospitals for treatment, though their injuries are considered non-life-threatening as of Saturday afternoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dying words tie teen to murder outside elementary school Police believe that multiple suspects left the scene of the shooting prior to officers responding to the home. No arrests have been made at this time. Based on preliminary findings, police believe this was a targeted shooting and not a random act of violence. The Alton Police Department says an investigation is ongoing. If you have any relevant information, contact the department at 618-463-3505 (ext. 634). Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. The News TikTok is deleting more videos in Kenya for violating community guidelines, as the company looks to avoid government scrutiny over content moderation for sexually explicit content. TikTok pulled down 360,000 videos in Kenya in the three months to June, according to its newly published Q2 enforcement report. It took down 296,000 videos in all of 2023 in Kenya. The videos removed in the three-month period accounted for 0.3% of videos uploaded in Kenya in that quarter. The platform was compelled by Kenyas government in April to share quarterly compliance reports because it faced a petition that threatened to see it banned in the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The proliferation of sexual content in particular on TikTok in Kenya fueled the push for stricter moderation from regulators concerned about Only Fans-style content. Videos featuring ethnic incitement and violence are also often pulled down for violating guidelines. Know More TikToks enforcement report further disclosed that the platform banned nearly 60,000 accounts in Kenya for violating various community guidelines, with many of them suspected to belong to users below the age of 13. It said 99.1% of the videos pulled down in April, May and June in Kenya were removed before users reported them. The platform credited its investments in technology for enabling greater automated detection of harmful content, which it uses alongside human moderators. The Bytedance-owned platform said it removed over 178 million videos globally in June alone, out of which 144 million were removed through automation. In August TikTok set up an advisory council with experts drawn from across the continent to help inform its policies and improve its content moderation. Step Back The number of videos pulled down last year was revealed by the platforms Head of Government Relations director Fortune Sibanda when he appeared before Kenyas Parliament earlier this year at the height of the petition to ban TikTok in Kenya. The failed petition sought to have the platform shut down over the dissemination of explicit, harmful and violent content in the country. The countrys technology ministry, however, told Parliament that it preferred to enhance regulation of the platform as opposed to a ban. Nov. 16Oct. 30, 2016: Just nine days before the presidential election, Donald Trump, then the Republican nominee, rouses a diverse crowd at a rally in Albuquerque. He draws some of his biggest cheers of the night when he reiterates his promise to build a wall on the state's southern border. Nov. 8, 2016: Trump is elected the 45th president of the United States, though New Mexico goes blue. Nov. 9, 2016: Republican Gov. Susana Martinez, whose relationship with Trump was rocky leading up to the election, extends an olive branch. "I may have taken issue with some of the rhetoric on the campaign trail, but I believe that President-elect Trump was a better choice than Hillary Clinton, and I congratulate him on his hard-fought victory," she says in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nov. 17, 2016: The late Javier Gonzales, then mayor of Santa Fe, goes on the national media circuit as the face and voice of sanctuary cities. Sanctuary cities such as Santa Fe had drawn the ire of Trump, who had vowed to "cancel all federal funding" to such cities the day he takes office. Jan. 18, 2017: The Santa Fe City Council considers a resolution that would denounce many of Trump's policies, from his proposal to build a wall along the border with Mexico to his plans to gut the Affordable Care Act. The resolution, called divisive, dies in a tie vote. Jan. 23, 2017: State Rep. Patricia Roybal Caballero, D-Albuquerque, introduces a bill that would prohibit state and local police from arresting people based solely on their immigration status. Jan. 29, 2017: A trio of Democratic lawmakers invite then-Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto to visit the United States after he cancels a trip to Washington in response to Trump's plans to build a border wall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Feb. 6, 2017: Hundreds of people pack into the Rotunda of the state Capitol to protest Trump's clampdown on illegal immigration and his vow to build a wall between the United States and Mexico. March 2017: A federal judge in Albuquerque approves a settlement that prohibits the San Juan County jail from holding inmates past their release date at the request of federal agents based only on their immigration status an order advocates say is a direct rebuke of the Trump administration. May 1, 2017: More than 100 people gather in the parking lot of the Somos Un Pueblo Unido office, an immigrant advocacy group, off St. Michael's Drive to march for labor and immigrant rights. Jan. 9, 2018: Former state Rep. Bill McCamley, D-Mesilla Park, announces plans to introduce legislation that would prohibit the use of state land in the construction of a new wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement April 4, 2018: Martinez signals she'll collaborate with Trump as he seeks to enlist Southwestern governors in his enhanced crackdown on border crossings. Albuquerque police officials soon ask Martinez to prevent the city's police officers who serve in the National Guard from being deployed to the border. April 9, 2018: Martinez orders 80 troops from the New Mexico National Guard to the border to serve in a support role for the U.S. Border Patrol. About 100 more are sent later. May 21, 2018: Martinez is among several governors and Cabinet officials who join Trump at the White House for a meeting on border security. June 2018: Martinez says she supports the federal government's decision to separate children from parents who cross the border illegally under the Trump administration's zero tolerance effort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement June 20, 2018: Michelle Lujan Grisham, then a congresswoman and Democratic gubernatorial candidate, calls for Martinez to cancel the deployment of New Mexico National Guard troops to the border. June 28, 2018: New Mexico State Police arrest about a dozen people who took part in a protest over immigration issues at the state Capitol, ending an hourslong peaceful standoff. Aug. 14, 2018: Lujan Grisham tours a segment of the U.S.-Mexico border fence in Sunland Park as part of a listening session with the police chief and mayor about issues affecting the city. Nov. 6, 2018: Lujan Grisham is elected governor of New Mexico in a race against Republican Congressman Steve Pearce. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jan. 10, 2019: Martinez, now the former governor, defends Trump's call for a border wall as part of a deal to end the federal government shutdown, saying "it's disgusting" not to call the situation on the U.S. Mexico-border a crisis. Jan. 11, 2019: After another visit to Sunland Park, Lujan Grisham says she sees she no immediate evidence of the security crisis described by Trump and presses U.S. officials there for more information about conditions inside a short-term detention facility for immigrants. February 2019: Lujan Grisham pulls back New Mexico National Guard personnel from the state's southern border. Nov. 18, 2019: U.S. Sens. Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich ask federal authorities to investigate the conditions and oversight of immigrant detainees held in facilities such as the Otero County Processing Center in New Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement May 4, 2022: The Republican Governors Association launches a television ad slamming Lujan Grisham on border security an issue she is constantly criticized on as she seeks a second term. Nov. 8, 2022: Lujan Grisham is elected to a second term in a race against Republican TV meteorologist Mark Ronchetti. Oct. 13, 2023: Democratic U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez calls for better cooperation between Texas and New Mexico after Texas Gov. Greg Abbott orders members of the Texas National Guard to install razor wire along the state's border with New Mexico. Jan. 16, 2024: Republicans criticize the governor for her proposals on border security and other issues after her State of the State address. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement May 4, 2024: In an op-ed published in The New Mexican, Republican state Reps. Jim Townsend and Randall Pettigrew take aim at the governor over border security, writing she "is not performing her duties to protect her constituents." May 21, 2024: During a CNN interview, Lujan Grisham calls Republican presidential candidate Trump "the candidate of chaos" on the border for pushing to block a border security bill stalled in Congress due to Republican opposition. Oct. 31, 2024: Trump, the GOP nominee, attacks Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee, on border security during a boisterous rally in Albuquerque in which he accuses Democrats of lax border enforcement that has allowed "criminals and terrorists [to] flood in your towns with deadly drugs and death [and] given your jobs to illegal migrants." Nov. 5, 2024: Trump wins the presidential race. Follow Daniel J. Chacon on Twitter @danieljchacon. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Tobias Read will be moving on from his position as Oregon Treasurer and into the office of Secretary of State in January. The Willamette University graduate with a masters in business from the University of Seattle, Read also worked for Nike and served in the Oregon legislature representing Beaverton. He was also a candidate for governor in 2022, losing in the Democratic primary to current Governor Tina Kotek. Read returned to Eye on Northwest Politics to discuss his priorities as he takes over the office from Secretary of State Lavonne Griffin-Valade, as well as how he sees the role moving forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For one, the Secretary of State oversees elections and election integrity, which was a big issue this time around in Oregon. We did see non-citizens who were signed onto the voter rolls by the DMV. Read said that, although there were never enough errors to impact the outcomes of an election, he was appalled at how the situation was handled. Given this, he will heavily scrutinize the DMVs upcoming changes to their processes. Im encouraged by what the DMV has described as the changes theyre making in their processes, he noted. But we have to make sure that the policies line up with the intentions and that the execution is consistent with that intention. If thats not being followed through on, then we have to continue to hold people at the DMV and the Secretary of States Office accountable. Another aspect of the election revolved around voter turnout, estimated at around 71% in Oregon this time around, which was about 10 percentage points below where the state was at in the previous presidential election. Read believes this stems from a lack of connection between those running for office and the people they would serve. I think all candidates have a responsibility of trying to respond to the needs and the desires that voters are expressing, and to the extent were not having 100% and thats a missed opportunity, he emphasized. Weve got to make sure that were were connecting with the very real issues that voters are feeling and struggling with. The secretary of state is also in charge of audits and Read identified a few criteria and examples for when an audit should be conducted, as theres a lot more appetite for audits than there is capacity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One is, where are we spending a lot of money and not getting the results that we want? Housing might be an example of that, he said. A second criteria is, where do we have a history of underperformance with respect to our spending? It might be an example of that. And the third one is, where does the state take a direct responsibility for the well-being of individual Oregonians? That might be foster care. One of the reasons that this position was open was the resignation of former Secretary of State, Shemia Fagan over her financial ties to the LaMota cannabis company. Current Secretary Lavonne Griffin Valade stated that she would not run for reelection. Read noted what happened with Fagan factored into his desire to run for secretary of state because the office badly needed stability and professionalism. In the time that Ive been treasurer, there have been four different secretaries of state, not even counting the acting folks who have filled in on a short-term basis, he said. So I think having someone who is committed to that job and committed to restoring that the resources and the stability there is really going to make a difference. That is absolutely my priority. Watch the full interview in the video above. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. In our weekly list of business people on the move, we highlight Palm Beach County professionals who are making a difference. These are people from across the spectrum of public and private endeavors, those working in charities, court houses, private practices and beyond. They are moving up within their industry, advancing their careers and standing out for their services within our community. Here are this week's professional standouts: Palm Health Foundation names three committee members Elisa Cramer Palm Health Foundation recently announced the appointments of three Palm Beach County leaders to its community investment committee. They include: Elisa Cramer, director of the Palm Beach County Youth Services department; Jyothi Gunta MD, MPH, director of the Florida department of Health-Palm Beach County; and Lisa Kirk Wiese, Ph.D., associate professor at Florida Atlantic Universitys Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing. Palm Health Foundation supports health equity for Palm Beach County residents of all backgrounds, heritage, education, incomes, and states of well-being. Dr. Jyothi Gunta Dr. Lisa Kirk Wiese Jones Fosters lawyers elected officers of county Bar Association chapter Hanna B. Rubin Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jones Foster recently announced that litigation attorneys Hanna B. Rubin and Lainey W. Francisco have been elected officers of the Federal Bar Association of Palm Beach County Chapter for the 2024-2025 term. Rubin and Francisco will work with the executive board and the organizations committee chairs to plan and execute events and programs for members and represent the chapter at meetings and events. The Federal Bar Association promotes the welfare, interests, education, and professional development of all attorneys involved in federal law, including private practitioners, government counsel, and members of the federal judiciary. Jones Foster is a full-service commercial and private client law firm headquartered in West Palm Beach. Lainey W. Francisco WPTV anchor joins Community Partners of South Florida board Tiffany Kenney Palm Beach County based non-profit organization Community Partners of South Florida recently announced that Emmy Award-winning journalist Tiffany Kenney has joined its board of directors. Kenney, a familiar face in Palm Beach County, anchors WPBF 25 News at Noon, 4, and 5 p.m., and is celebrating her 25th year with the station. West Palm Beach attorney makes Super Lawyers list Scott N. Richardson Scott N. Richardson has been selected for inclusion in Super Lawyers and in Best Lawyers. Richardson practices in the area of criminal defense at his own firm, the Law Office of Scott N. Richardson, P.A. in West Palm Beach. Covering five Florida cities, law firm adds New England attorney to ranks Mike Scott Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith, PLLC, has announced that attorney Mike Scott has joined the firm and will be working out of their Stuart and West Palm Beach offices. A native of New England, Scott has spent the past decade litigating cases, primarily as a defense attorney, at firms in Florida, Massachusetts and Connecticut. Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith, PLLC is a third-generation personal injury law firm working across West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Wellington, Stuart and Bradenton. Investment advisor joins local Meals on Wheels board Chad Delk Chad Delk, executive director and banker in the Palm Beach office of the J.P. Morgan Private Bank, has joined the Meals on Wheels of the Palm Beaches board of directors. Delk has been with J.P. Morgan since 2012. Delk is also a board member of Be Strong International, a nonprofit organization focused on providing holistic education and resources to youth and families in South Florida. Meals on Wheels of the Palm Beaches is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to nourish and enrich the lives of homebound seniors by delivering fresh food daily, with compassion and love. Local endodontist to lead Florida Association of Endodontists Dr. Rory E. Mortman Dr. Rory E. Mortman of Endodontic Associates of the Palm Beaches, P.A. was recently appointed president of the Florida Association of Endodontists. If you are looking for more insight into the movers and shakers operating in the Palm Beaches, subscribe to our real estate newsletter, The Dirt, keep an eye out for stories and perspective from veteran reporters Kimberly Miller and Alexandra Clough. If you have an announcement for Business People on the Move, please send it to Pbbusiness@pbpost.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eddie Ritz is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at eritz@pbpost.com. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Best businesses, professionals, business people in Palm Beach County Former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said that the "final call" for protest by Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaaf (PTI) will fail to derail Pakistan's progress, Geo TV reported. Nawaz Sharif, who is currently the President of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), briefly spoke to media in London. According to Geo TV, Nawaz Sharif dismissed the prospects of PTI's protest movement, when asked by a journalist whether the purpose of PTI's protest call is to derail Pakistan's economic journey. "I agree with you but they will fail in their mission," said Nawaz. As per Geo TV, Sharif criticised PTI's nationwide protest call and slammed the imprisoned former Pak PM and PTI founder Imran Khan, saying that Khan did nothing except "bringing disrepute to the country" during his nearly four years in power. "What Imran Khan has done during his tenure that people would take to the streets on his call. Tell me a single [development] project that he could proudly present as evidence of development during his tenure," Nawaz Sharif spoke in an informal interaction with reporters in London, as noted by Geo TV. Sharif further said that they did nothing but harm the country. "They have to be held accountable for such practices before giving a 'call'," he added. Geo TV reported that November 24 was announced by PTI as the date for the anti-government protest march to Islamabad. The announcement was made by Khan's lawyer and sister, they described as a "final call" to topple the incumbent rulers. "Imran Khan says this is the final call for a [anti-government] protest. The PTI founder has stressed that the party's entire leadership will be part of the march," lawyer Faisal Chaudhry told reporters in Rawalpindi, Geo TV observed. The protest will not only take place in Islamabad, but throughout Pakistan and across the world where Khan's supporters are present, Chaudhry had told Pakistani media. (ANI) Vince Spinnato who created a fragrance to honor Judy Garlands 100th birthday encapsulated Hollywood in two bottles that celebrate the 100-year-old sign. While Sunrise evokes the beach with pink guava and coconut, Sunset conjures Hollywood Boulevard with mandarin and seductive jasmine. Alex Israels Ocean BLVD sculpture for Louis Vuitton with cologne collection, price upon request, by special order L.A. artist Alex Israel created a 3D showcase for the five Louis Vuitton colognes that embody his aesthetic. His sculpture Ocean BLVD (shown below) integrates the collection into a starry boulevard, which took over 500 hours and 20 artisans to construct in France. Courtesy Louis Vuitton CITY OF STARS This musky evening scent evokes passion with citrus fruits and tiare flower. Courtesy Louis Vuitton PACIFIC CHILL Blackcurrant, carrot seeds and herbs conjure nature and stimulate the senses. Courtesy Louis Vuitton Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ON THE BEACH Transport to the shore through yuzu, neroli and the sandy notes of herbs. Courtesy Louis Vuitton CALIFORNIA DREAM In a sunset-colored bottle, this marries mandarin with warm ambrette and vanilla benzoin. Courtesy Louis Vuitton AFTERNOON SWIM Ride a mandarin wave with this fresh cologne that leads with notes of bergamot. A homeless man is dead after being shot several times during a confrontation at the Uptown Shopping Center in Richland early Saturday morning. His family posted on social media and Richland police later confirmed that Michael Anthony Perkins, 36, of the Tri-Cities, had died. Perkins was homeless, but would spend the limited number of nights allowed by a landlord in his brothers apartment, his brother posted to social media. He said his brother would sometimes sleep in the Uptown breezeway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police were called about a disturbance at 4:15 a.m. and found Perkins wounded. Officers administered life-saving measures but Perkins didnt survive. The RPD Criminal Investigation Division and Street Crimes Unit processed the scene and interviewed witnesses. The investigation revealed that a group of people were gathered in the alleyway of the Uptown Shopping Center, when Perkins became involved in a confrontation with another male, said a police news release. The suspect shot and killed Perkins then fled, said the release. The breezeway is near Lees Tahitian Restaurant on the Jadwin Avenue side of the Uptown center. Benton County Coroner Bill Leach said an autopsy would be done in the coming days. Police are asking anyone with information on the incident to call 509-628-0333. TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) This story has been archived and will no longer be updated. For updates on this system, click here. Tropical Storm Sara has weakened to a tropical depression as it continues to dump heavy rains over portions of Mexicos Yucatan Peninsula, the National Hurricane Center said. In the Sunday afternoon update, the storm is moving west-northwest at 12 mph, with maximum sustained winds of 35 mph. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Park manager shows catastrophic damage to Ft. DeSoto Park, details recovery efforts Sara is expected to pick up speed through Sunday night but weakening and dissipation are expected as it moves over the southern Yucatan Peninsula. The remnants of Sara will move into the Gulf of Mexico and should not reform, Max Defender 8 Meteorologist Eric Stone said. But rain and some wind will move into the area as the remnants and a cold front move through the Bay Area this Wednesday. According to the NHC, data from the government of Honduras indicates the country has gotten around 40 inches of rain. All tropical storm warnings have been discontinued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heavy rainfall is expected to cause flash flooding and mudslides across Central America, which could potentially be catastrophic. Watch Tracking the Tropics on Tuesdays at 12:30 p.m. ET/11:30 a.m. CT. Be prepared with the 2024 Hurricane Guide and stay ahead of tropical development with the Tracking the Tropics newsletter. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. By Gloria Dickie BAKU (Reuters) -The world's warming tropical wetlands are releasing more methane than ever before, research shows an alarming sign that the world's climate goals are slipping further out of reach. A massive surge in wetlands methane unaccounted for by national emissions plans and undercounted in scientific models could raise the pressure on governments to make deeper cuts from their fossil fuel and agriculture industries, according to researchers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wetlands hold huge stores of carbon in the form of dead plant matter that is slowly broken down by soil microbes. Rising temperatures are like hitting the accelerator on that process, speeding up the biological interactions that produce methane. Heavy rains, meanwhile, trigger flooding that causes wetlands to expand. Scientists had long projected wetland methane emissions would rise as the climate warmed, but from 2020 to 2022, air samples showed the highest methane concentrations in the atmosphere since reliable measurements began in the 1980s. Four studies published in recent months say that tropical wetlands are the likeliest culprit for the spike, with tropical regions contributing more than 7 million tonnes to the methane surge over the last few years. "Methane concentrations are not just rising, but rising faster in the last five years than any time in the instrument record," said Stanford University environmental scientist Rob Jackson, who chairs the group that publishes the five-year Global Methane Budget, last released in September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Satellite instruments revealed the tropics as the source of a large increase. Scientists further analyzed distinct chemical signatures in the methane to determine whether it came from fossil fuels or a natural source in this case, wetlands. The Congo, Southeast Asia and the Amazon and southern Brazil contributed the most to the spike in the tropics, researchers found. Data published in March 2023 in Nature Climate Change shows that annual wetland emissions over the past two decades were about 500,000 tonnes per year higher than what scientists had projected under worst-case climate scenarios. Capturing emissions from wetlands is challenging with current technologies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We should probably be a bit more worried than we are," said climate scientist Drew Shindell at Duke University. The La Nina climate pattern that delivers heavier rains to parts of the tropics appeared somewhat to blame for the surge, according to one study published in September in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. But La Nina alone, which last ended in 2023, cannot explain record-high emissions, Shindell said. For countries trying to tackle climate change, "this has major implications when planning for methane and carbon dioxide emissions cuts," said Zhen Qu, an atmospheric chemist at North Carolina State University who led the study on La Nina impacts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If wetland methane emissions continue to rise, scientists say governments will need to take stronger action to hold warming at 1.5 C (2.7 F), as agreed in the United Nations Paris climate accord. WATER WORLD Methane is 80 times more powerful than carbon dioxide (CO2) at trapping heat over a timespan of 20 years, and accounts for about one-third of the 1.3 degrees Celsius (2.3 F) in warming that the world has registered since 1850. Unlike CO2, however, methane washes out of the atmosphere after about a decade, so it has less of a long-term impact. More than 150 countries have pledged to deliver 30% cuts from 2020 levels by 2030, tackling leaky oil and gas infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But scientists have not yet observed a slowdown, even as technologies to detect methane leaks have improved. Methane emissions from fossil fuels have remained around a record high of 120 million tonnes since 2019, according to the International Energy Agency's 2024 Global Methane Tracker report. Satellites have also picked up more than 1,000 large methane plumes from oil and gas operations over the past two years, according to a U.N. Environment Programme report published on Friday, but the countries notified responded to just 12 leaks. Some countries have announced ambitious plans for cutting methane. China last year said it would strive to curb flaring, or burning off emissions at oil and gas wells. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Joe Biden's administration finalized a methane fee for big oil and gas producers last week, but it is likely to be scrapped by the incoming presidency of Donald Trump. The Democratic Republic of Congo's environment minister Eve Bazaiba told Reuters on the sidelines of the U.N. climate summit COP29 that the country was working to assess the methane surging from the Congo Basin's swampy forests and wetlands. Congo was the largest hotspot of methane emissions in the tropics in the 2024 methane budget report. "We don't know how much [methane is coming off our wetlands]," she said. "That's why we bring in those who can invest in this way, also to do the monitoring to do the inventory, how much we have, how we can also exploit them." (Reporting by Gloria Dickie in Baku; Additional reporting by Virginia Furness in Baku; Editing by Katy Daigle and Suzanne Goldenberg) (Bloomberg) -- Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau gave support to the decision by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to speak directly with Vladimir Putin on Friday, saying that ending the war will require some engagement with Russias president. Most Read from Bloomberg Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scholzs call with Putin angered Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who said in a video address that Russia deserves isolation and the phone call was exactly what Putin has wanted for a long time. Some European officials also disagreed with Scholzs decision, arguing it shows weakness and will have little effect on Putin, Bloomberg News reported. But when asked about Scholzs call, Trudeau suggested it was good to have a line of communication open to Putin. We all understand how important it is to see an end to the violence in Ukraine, to see an end to conflicts around the world. Trudeau said in Peru, where he was attending the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit. That requires a level of engagement with counterparts who in many cases we disagree with. Trudeau quickly added that Canada and its allies are still engaging closely with Zelenskiy. Its a good thing that there are conversations around this, but the level of trust that I have for Vladimir Putin is probably at an all-time low right now, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said Canada is committed to Ukraines victory, and wants to see an end to the conflict as quickly as possible. There are perhaps windows in which that might be able to happen in the coming months, he said, without elaborating. But ending the conflict on Ukraines terms will require keeping the US on board as the Donald Trump administration comes in, he said. Lets also be very blunt: all the allies in the world would not be able to replace a complete withdrawal from supporting Ukraine by the United States, Trudeau said. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has backed German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's decision to speak directly with Kremlin ruler Vladimir Putin on Friday, saying that ending the war would require some engagement with the Russian leader. Source: Bloomberg; European Pravda Details: When asked about Scholz's call, Trudeau said it was good to have an open line of communication with Putin. "We all understand how important it is to see an end to the violence in Ukraine, to see an end to conflicts around the world," Trudeau said in Peru, where he was attending the summit of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "That requires a level of engagement with counterparts who in many cases we disagree with," he added. Trudeau swiftly emphasised that Canada and its allies remain deeply engaged with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. "Its a good thing that there are conversations around this, but the level of trust that I have for Vladimir Putin is probably at an all-time low right now," he said. The PM highlighted Canadas commitment to Ukraines victory, expressing a desire for the war to end as swiftly as possible. "There are perhaps windows in which that might be able to happen in the coming months," he said without elaborating. However, he said, ending the war on Ukraine's terms will require US support with the arrival of the Donald Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Lets also be very blunt: all the allies in the world would not be able to replace a complete withdrawal from supporting Ukraine by the United States," Trudeau noted. Background: On the afternoon of 15 November, it was reported that Scholz had spoken to Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin for the first time in two years. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy labelled the call a "Pandora's box". Jurgen Hardt, a member of the Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU), believes that Putin will see Scholz's move as "a sign of weakness, not strength". At the same time, Matthias Miersch, Secretary General of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD), spoke in defence of the chancellor's decision. Support UP or become our patron! President-elect Trumps White House victory set his legal cases on a downward spiral, but his allies who have faced prosecution or other legal trouble are not yet in the clear. Dozens of Trump aides, associates and backers including top officials in his first administration have faced criminal charges tied to efforts to keep the former president in power after he lost the 2020 election. Many also faced disbarments, bankruptcy and civil litigation. While Trumps criminal cases are winding down upon his imminent return to the nations highest office, those same protections he has as president dont extend to his allies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Georgia, more than a dozen people were charged alongside Trump with attempting to subvert the states election results. President Biden won the state by 11,779 votes in 2020. Trumps former chief of staff, Mark Meadows, and Rudy Giuliani, the ex-New York City mayor who helped lead the 2020 push, are co-defendants in that case, in addition to several lawyers and aides. Trump supporters who signed false paperwork saying they were the states true electors are also charged. A Justice Department opinion on separation of powers makes it clear that state criminal prosecutions against Trump must, at the very least, be put on ice while hes in office, said Gregory Germain, a law professor at Syracuse University, in a blog post after Novembers election. In all likelihood, the state criminal cases will be put on hold during Trumps presidency, he wrote. If they try to continue with the prosecutions, or even to impose a stayed sentence, I suspect the decisions will be reversed on appeal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But thats not the case for the 14 other defendants with remaining charges. In fact, with Trump effectively out of the picture, any limitations the Supreme Courts presidential immunity decision would have put on the prosecution barring certain evidence and causing further delays are gone now, said Anthony Michael Kreis, a Georgia State University law professor. It could make his allies prosecutions more potent. Theyre kind of living on a hope and a prayer that something has changed in the world to their benefit, Kreis said of Trumps co-defendants, citing the former presidents election win. But when it comes down to the actual trial practice, they might be more sorry than glad. Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis won her own reelection this fall, allowing her to maintain her place at the helm of the historic case. In an interview with Atlanta News First, she declined to nail down a plan forward but indicated that she doesnt intend to let the case crumble for any defendant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If someone has an indictment in this office, no matter who they are, we continue to pursue those charges, Willis said. Im here for eight more years, is my plan. So, if thats what it takes for us to get justice in some cases, we come to work every day, well come to work and look for justice. Still, the immediate fate of the Georgia case is in the hands of a state appeals court, which is weighing whether to boot Willis from the prosecution over her previous romantic relationship with a top prosecutor on the case, who has since resigned. Arizonas 2020 election case, in which Trump is an unindicted co-conspirator while 16 defendants still face charges, is also expected to push forward, according to the states Democratic attorney general. I have no intention of dropping that case, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes said last week. A grand jury in the state of Arizona decided that these individuals who engaged in an attempt to overthrow our democracy in 2020 should be held accountable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The prosecution hit a roadblock earlier this week when the judge overseeing that case recused himself after urging colleagues to call out attacks against Vice President Harriss presidential campaign in an email to other judges. A spokesperson for Giuliani said the judges remarks underlined the partisan and baseless nature of this whole case, but Mayess office pushed back that the email represented a cry for decency and respect and was not reflective of bias. Mayes spokesperson Richie Taylor said the case has never been motivated by politics. The Arizona case is set to go to trial in January 2026, though the judges recusal could cause delays. Trumps troubles in Arizona might not be over, either. The states statute of limitations on most felony offenses is seven years, meaning that its possible the former president could face charges there in the final year of his term and leave office with few mechanisms to stop them, Kreis said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three Trump allies also face charges in Wisconsin, and 16 so-called fake electors are charged in Michigan. In Nevada, charges were brought against six alternate electors, but a trial court dismissed the case for lack of jurisdiction; the state appealed. And in New Mexico and Pennsylvania, prosecutors have said legal standards were not met to bring charges. If there are convictions for Trumps allies in the state cases, he wont be able to issue pardons or other relief, as that power is exclusively reserved for federal offenses. Criminal prosecutions aside, Trumps allies have faced a slew of other legal issues for their efforts to keep Trump in the White House. Giuliani has been disbarred and was forced to turn over most of his assets to two election workers he defamed. Two others involved, Jeff Clark and John Eastman, have also faced disciplinary proceedings. And attorneys Sidney Powell, Kenneth Chesebro and Jenna Ellis have pleaded guilty to criminal charges stemming from their post-2020 election work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even as president, theres little Trump can do to help. I think theyre out on their own, Kreis said. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. President-elect Donald Trumps defense secretary pick, Pete Hegseth, paid a woman who accused him of sexual assault in a settlement agreement that included a confidentiality clause, according to Hegseths attorney. Attorney Timothy Parlatore said Hegseth denies assaulting the woman and has characterized the October 2017 incident in Monterey, California as a consensual sexual encounter. Monterey city officials last week confirmed that local police had investigated an alleged sexual assault involving Hegseth. The city declined to release information about the victim and said it would not release the full police report or comment further on the investigation, citing state public records law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hegseth has not been charged in any criminal case or named as a defendant in any civil lawsuit in connection with the incident. In 2020, Hegseth learned the woman was considering filing a lawsuit, Parlatore said in statement provided to CNN. Parlatore said the payment to the married woman was of a significantly reduced amount and that Hegseth, a veteran turned Fox News host, settled because it was during the Me Too movement and he didnt want to lose his job at the network if the accusation became public. The attorneys statement did not say how much Hegseths accuser was paid in the settlement. Parlatore said Hegseth felt that he was the victim of blackmail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CNN spoke briefly with the alleged victim on Thursday. She became visibly distraught at the mention of Hegseths name but declined to be interviewed without first contacting her attorney. She said she did not know what she was authorized to say. The woman, whom CNN is not naming because she is an alleged victim of sexual assault, did not respond to subsequent requests to be interviewed. The settlement and confidentiality clause were first reported by the Washington Post Saturday evening. The alleged assault took place in the early morning hours of October 8, 2017, at the address of the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa, and was reported by the woman four days later, according to the citys statement. Hegseth was a speaker at a conference held by the California Federation of Republican Women at a hotel during the timeframe when the alleged assault took place. The statement from Monterey City added that there were no weapons involved, but there were injuries contusions to right thigh without providing additional details. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump selected Hegseth last week as his defense secretary nominee despite him having no senior military or public office experience, which surprised both Pentagon officials and the former presidents own allies. Trumps announcement was swiftly followed by news of the alleged sexual assault, catching the president-elects transition team off guard, CNN reported Friday. Trumps communications director defended Hegseth in an earlier statement to CNN, saying he has vigorously denied any and all accusations, and no charges were filed. We look forward to his confirmation as United States Secretary of Defense so he can get started on Day One to Make America Safe and Great Again, Steven Cheung said. CNNs Kyung Lah and Scott Glover contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Its not the first time President-elect Donald Trump has endorsed a candidate in Miami-Dade County, but his endorsement of a local candidate for Doral City Council could have significant implications for the approval of his development project in the city. On Saturday afternoon, Trump endorsed Nicole Reinoso, a candidate running for Seat 3 on the Doral City Council, backing her as part of Mayor Christie Fragas slate. While Fraga and Councilman Rafael Pinyero were reelected in November, Reinoso will face Juan Carlos Esquivel in a runoff election on Dec. 10. The seat became vacant after Vice Mayor Oscar Puig-Corve stepped down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nicole Reinoso has my complete and total endorsement for Doral City Council (Seat 3). Working with Dorals wonderful Mayor, Christi Fraga, Nicole will help grow the economy, create GREAT jobs, and deliver the American Dream. Doral residents, vote for Nicole Reinoso - She will not let you down! Trump wrote on Truth Social. City of Doral Mayor Christi Fraga, council candidate Nicole Reinoso and council member Rafael Pineyro The political landscape in Doral is of significant interest to Trump, especially with a pending vote on his plans to build luxury condominiums in the city. Trumps latest South Florida real estate project, Doral International Towers, calls for a 1,429-unit condominium complex, along with 141,000 square feet of retail space, on the southeastern corner of the Trump National Doral resort. In a preliminary city council vote in August the proposal was approved 3-2, with Fraga and Councilman Rafael Pinyero, Fragas close ally, voting against it. The outcome of the upcoming election will ultimately determine the future of the project, which has been scheduled for a final vote in 2025. A rendering of the proposed Doral International Towers, a residential and commercial complex on the grounds of President-elect Donald Trumps Doral resort. Fraga and Pineyro opposed the project due the impact that it may have in Northwest 87th Avenue in Doral, Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his reelection campaign, Pinyero told the Miami Herald that 87th Avenue has no further capacity for expansion. Dorals original plans did not include high-density projects to the west of 87th Avenue, Pinyero said. Thats why Downtown Doral was developed to the east, and all high-density projects were focused on the eastern side of the city. The vision for the area west of 87th Avenue was never intended to be high-density. This resort is located west of 87th Avenue, so we need to be cautious as we look to the future. In a prior interview with the Miami Herald, Reinoso said that the council has a limited role when it comes to preventing over-development. Our city is growing, and we have to do it responsibly, but there are limitations in what we can do about it, she said. Reinoso said Saturday that Trumps endorsement would not affect her vote should she become a council member and the proposed development come back to the council. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Absolutely not. Im grateful for the presidents support, but it will not influence any part of my decision, she said. I wont let any endorsement sway my choices. Im running to represent Dorals residents, and every vote I cast will be transparent. Seat 3 has been mired in controversy from the time all three candidates filed for the position. One of them, Irina Vilarino, faced a legal challenge to her candidacy, with efforts to have her removed from the ballot. Ultimately, a judge ruled in her favor, but Vilarino finished third in the Nov. 5 election. She has accused Mayor Fraga of persecuting her. Fragas political committee, Leaders of Tomorrow, paid $10,000 in legal fees to the firm Cabrera Hoopingarner that represented Doral Chamber of Commerce CEO Emmanuel Manny Sarmiento in his complaint questioning Vilarinos residency. Regaining control of the council is a top priority for Fraga. This election is crucial to her efforts, as she lost control when Councilwoman Maureen Porras, who ran on a slate with Fraga and Pinyero in 2022, began voting against Fragas proposals and emerged as a leading opposition force. Although Fraga was reelected in November, residents approved several amendments that will significantly reduce the mayors authority, shifting more power to the city council. The Indian Army will host Exercise Sanyukt Vimochan 2024 on November 18 and November 19. The exercise will be attended by representatives from nine friendly foreign countries, the Indian Army announced in a post on X. Exercise Sankyukt Vimochan is conducted by the Indian Army which is an annual joint Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Exercise (HADR). The exercise will bring together various armed forces, the Armed Forces, the Indian Coast Guard, and both Central and state agencies. It is set to be conducted in Ahmedabad and Porbandar, Gujarat. The details of the exercise were shared by the Additional Directorate General of Public Information of the Indian Army in a post on the social media platform, X. https://x.com/adgpi/status/1857975434832498802 The Army noted, "The exercise will see varied forces united to tackle natural disasters and will assess the efficiency of response measures and optimise existing disaster management structures". "It will also provide a platform for the participants to exchange domain knowledge, share best practices and gain expertise", the post read. It was noted by the Indian Army that representatives from friendly foreign countries will be attending the event, fostering international cooperation and knowledge sharing in disaster management. As per the Indian Army, countries attending the exercise include Sri Lanka, Vietnam, UAE, Thailand, Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Maldives, and Malaysia. With climate change at an unprecedented rate, the world stands at a great risk of natural disasters becoming more frequent and deadly. According to the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), approximately 100 representatives belonging to countries from the Gulf Cooperation Council & Indian Ocean Region block will attend the exercise and industry display as observers for the exercise. The exercise will see an industrial equipment display which will be an excellent opportunity to showcase India's indigenously built Defence and HADR equipment and capability to the visiting countries as a potential export market. The Exercise, amid this background, will play a significant role in boosting collaboration for better disaster management. The Army in its statement also said that the event will feature a Table Top Exercise, a demonstration showcasing a joint response to a natural disaster and an Industrial Display of indigenous equipment for carrying out such missions. The exercise comes in tandem with the renewed actions being pursued by the Government of India to promote disaster resilience across the world. Indian initiatives such as the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) are a testament to India providing leadership in disaster resilience. Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the UN Climate Action Summit in New York in 2019, the CDRI is a partnership of national governments, UN agencies and programmes, multilateral development banks and financing mechanisms, the private sector, and knowledge institutions that aims to promote the resilience of new and existing infrastructure systems to climate and disaster risks in support of sustainable development. CDRI promotes the rapid development of resilient infrastructure to respond to the Sustainable Development Goals' imperatives of expanding universal access to basic services, enabling prosperity and decent work. India's participation in global collective actions and leading the cause is in sync with the country's priorities of becoming disaster resilient and aiming for collective global good. (ANI) Republicans have made gains with minority voters in the past two elections, a marked shift among some of the most loyal voting blocs for Democrats. The GOP saw an increase in support from Asian, Black, Hispanic and Latino voters in November, building on the growth the party saw from the midterms. But some Republicans warn that the party needs to do more to continue these gains and not take those voters for granted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the leadership at the GOP in the House dont start to critically think about the role that minorities play for their conferences and the outreach that they need to do, theyre going to miss the moment, Helder Toste, former Republican National Committee (RNC) Hispanic outreach director, told The Hill. Much of the inroads the GOP made with voters of color was thanks to President-elect Trump. Exit polling from CNN showed Trumps support among Latino voters jumped from 32 percent to 46 percent. Among Asian American voters, Trump moved the needle from 34 percent to 39 percent. Trump getting this record high of the Hispanic share isnt just a fluke, Toste said. There have been a lot of party investments over the last few years that have pretty much allowed President Trump to ride the wave. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He pointed to major investments in minority communities across battleground states like Georgia and Pennsylvania. The RNC also opened up outreach centers ahead of the election, hoping to meet with voters of color. Toste added that grassroots organizers like himself have been knocking on doors sharing vital information with voters for some time. But, Toste added, the GOP must recognize its base is no longer as homogeneous as many once thought. The party needs to have a clear reckoning with itself about the fact that they won because of Hispanics and not just a white coalition like they did in 2016, said Toste. If they do not learn that lesson, they will lose. Antjuan Seawright, a Democratic strategist, admitted that some of the numbers in favor of Trump came as a surprise but dismissed the gains as a one-off rather than a growing trend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You never make assumptions about the electorate or about voters in general, Seawright said. What I think this means for Democrats is we have to be very intentional about motivating, cultivating and educating our base. Motivating that base is going to be crucial as Democrats look toward upcoming special elections in light of House vacancies from Cabinet appointments, he added. Part of that base is Black voters. Despite many Black Americans being raised with conservative or traditional values, more than 80 percent identify as or lean Democratic. Despite the inroads Trump made with Latino voters, he fell short among Black voters, a crucial voting bloc for Democrats. Only 13 percent of Black voters cast their ballots for Trump a negligible increase from 12 percent in 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, Janiyah Thomas, Black media director for Team Trump, said she ran into many Black voters who felt connected to the Trump campaign but were too scared to be open about it. Democrats pressured a lot of people into feeling like theyre losing their Black card for not voting for Kamala Harris, Thomas argued. She added that the Republican Party must capitalize now on that frustration with the Democrats if they want to bring more Black voters into the fold in time for the 2026 midterms. Republicans have to work twice as hard to talk to that demographic, she said. That extra work is in part because some Black voters are concerned about Republican messaging. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Morandon Henry, a voter who supported Vice President Harris this year, told The Hill on election night at Howard University that he has major concerns about Trumps rhetoric around the Central Park Five and his reported sh-t hole countries remark, in which Trump during his first-term apparently referred to Haiti and African nations by the disparaging label. Such rhetoric has him concerned about how Trump and the larger Republican Party view Black Americans. As a Black man, Im scared, Henry said. Thomas, the member of Trumps campaign, said the GOP must find new messengers to reach voters like Henry and some of those messengers could be Black men. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We need to find a way to make people, especially Black people, more comfortable with us and the right messenger will make people feel more comfortable, Thomas said. We have great leadership between congressman [Byron] Donalds, Sen. Tim Scott, Wesley Hunt. Its not just on them, but it starts there. But Republicans also have to go where theyre not exactly wanted, added Whitley Yates, director of diversity and engagement for the Indiana Republican Party. Republicans have to get comfortable with being uncomfortable, which means going into neighborhoods where you know youre not going to win this community, but youre going to engage anyway because they deserve to hear your ideas as someone thats going to represent them, Yates said. The problem in the past is Republicans have a lot of times been afraid to go where they havent seen any type of political benefit, where it hasnt been politically profitable to go into communities and to walk into rooms where you know everyones going to disagree with you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She pointed to Trumps rally in the Bronx and even his appearance at the National Association of Black Journalists conference in July. The appearance was heavily criticized, and his comments sparked outrage, but the fact he showed up knowing he was not welcome mattered to a community that has consistently felt overlooked by politicians, said Yates. Republicans have to take that lesson, Yates said. Its not about politics. The goal is if [voters of color] have an issue, then at least they have somebody on the right that they can call. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. President-elect Trump has talked about using the military on the enemy from within, at the border and potentially even in Mexico against cartels. The rhetoric has sparked increasing worry among Democrats on Capitol Hill as Trump heads toward his second term. Republicans, however, largely downplayed the concerns during interviews this week. Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash.), ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee, said he was concerned about troops being deployed in the U.S., particularly after the selection of Pete Hegseth, a Fox News personality and veteran with far-right views, as the new Defense secretary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lot of people who have worked in the Pentagon or worked in the military have, over the course of their career, clearly expressed their firm commitment to the fact that domestic law enforcement isnt something the military should be doing, he said. It is one of many concerns. But Rep. Doug Lamborn (R-Colo.), also an Armed Services Committee member, deflected the concerns, like several Republicans approached by The Hill. I think a lot of these ideas are not very far advanced to be able to discuss with a lot of specificity, he said. During the campaign, Trump explicitly floated using the military on protesters or against enemies in the radical left, to assist with mass deportations of illegal immigrants and wage a war against cartels in Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps first term in office saw him stymied at times by senior military and Defense Department officials, but in a second stint in office, his opponents fear Trump will install absolute loyalists willing to act on his impulses. Notably, Trump was stopped from potentially misusing the military in 2020 by former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper, who Trump fired in November of that year. Esper broke with Trump over invoking the Insurrection Act to deploy active-duty troops against protesters in the wake of the death of Georgy Floyd. In a second term, critics worry Trump will also have much more leeway after the Supreme Court this year ruled the president cannot be criminally prosecuted for official acts. Official acts would include military orders, but service members follow the Uniformed Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) and have to still obey laws regardless of the commander in chiefs directions. Trump, in an October interview on Fox News, spurred concerns across Washington when he said the bigger problem is the enemy from within, rather than external threats, leading up to Election Day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have some very bad people. We have some sick people, radical-left lunatics, the president-elect said. It should be very easily handled by, if necessary, by National Guard, or if really necessary, by the military, because they cant let that happen. Esper said last month that Americans should take Trumps threats to use the military seriously. On Capitol Hill, Democrats sounded a similar warning. Rep. John Garamendi (D-Calif.), who sits on the Armed Services Committee, said Trump has pledged to use the military to straighten out America, to make America great again. So why would we not take him at his word? he said. We should be concerned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Garamendi warned that a sitting president has extraordinary power to deploy the military. The Insurrection Act of 1807 grants the president broad powers to deploy the military to quell unrest so long as it greatly hinders the functions of the state. It is partly limited by the Posse Comitatus Act of 1878, which says the military cannot be used to enforce domestic laws and assist law enforcement unless specifically authorized by Congress. Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.), also on the Armed Services Committee, said Posse Comitatus is a fundamental principle of our armed forces, and it is illegal under the UCMJ to follow an illegal order. I represent the biggest military community in the country so I know that our service members should only be deployed as a last resort and never against the American people to stifle dissent, she added in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Rep. Mark Alford (R-Mo.), another Armed Services Committee member, brushed off the concerns. Trump is not going to [target] U.S. citizens inside the United States of America or anywhere else for that matter, he said. Trump has also pledged to deploy the military to the border, a move that many in the GOP are now embracing. Although National Guard troops have been moved to the border before, the scope envisioned by Trump and Republicans would be unprecedented. The 2024 Republican platform calls to use any and all resources needed to stop the invasion of our country, including moving thousands of troops currently stationed overseas in countries that dont like us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The GOP document also says it will deploy the U.S. Navy to impose a full fentanyl blockade on the waters of our region boarding and inspecting ships to look for fentanyl and fentanyl precursors. Project 2025, a blueprint from the conservative Heritage Foundation for the Trump administration, outlines clear plans for military use at the border. Trump has distanced himself from parts of the document. Gene Hamilton, former counselor to the attorney general in the Trump administration, wrote Project 2025s Department of Justice chapter that calls for active-duty military personnel and National Guardsmen to assist in arrest operations along the border. Democrats raised fearful questions about what such a deployment would mean. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Using the military for domestic purposes, which is inappropriate, totally inappropriate, said Garamendi, sets America on a [dangerous] course. Republicans have also been warming to the idea of deploying the military into Mexico as part of the broader fight against drug trafficking and illegal immigration. In the Republican primaries, several candidates, including second-place finisher Nikki Haley and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, recommended taking some kind of military action against the cartels in Mexico. Trump has not made explicit mention of action against cartels, but his close allies, including his former deputy secretary of Homeland Security, Ken Cuccinelli, have publicly advocated for it. Cuccinelli wrote the Homeland Security chapter in Project 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps pick for national security adviser, Rep. Mike Waltz (R-Fla.), previously introduced legislation to authorize the use of military force against cartels. And Trumps incoming border czar, Tom Homan, told Fox News this week that he will absolutely need military and special ops to take on cartels. The Hill previously reported how military action in Mexico would threaten to upend relations with Washingtons biggest trading partner and would not likely solve the underlying problems that have led to the cartels vast power. In his first term, Trump considered dropping bombs on drug labs in Mexico, according to Esper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Trumps pick for secretary of State, has supported sending troops to Mexico as long as there is cooperation from the Mexican government. I would be willing to support this measure, but it has to be in coordination with the armed forces and the Mexican police force. Otherwise, it would not be possible to do it, he told El Universal in 2023. But Democratic lawmakers are worried that Trump, who has already threatened massive tariffs on Mexico, will make a unilateral move and further degrade relations with Americas neighbor. Jacobs raised concern about an unjustified and unauthorized invasion of our biggest trading partner, saying it would likely cause the cartels to retaliate and ironically increase refugees coming to the United States to escape the violence that we caused. Someone who lives in Mar-a-Lago couldnt possibly understand the consequences of deploying our troops to the border and into Mexico with whom we work daily on issues from commerce to tourism to counterterrorism and cross-border pollution, she said. Going to war in Mexico, added Armed Services Committee ranking member Smith, I dont think would be a good idea. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. WASHINGTON Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trumps pick for Defense secretary, paid a woman who accused him of sexual assault to head off the threat of a baseless lawsuit, according to Hegseths lawyer. Hegseth was accused of sexual assault in 2017 after a speaking appearance at a Republican womens event in Monterey, California, according to a statement released by the city. No charges were filed. His lawyer, Tim Parlatore, told The Associated Press on Sunday that the sexual encounter was consensual and that the woman who made the accusation days later was the aggressor. That assertion has not been confirmed in the statement released by the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parlatore said a payment was made to the woman as part of a confidential settlement a few years after the police investigation because Hegseth believed the filing of a threatened lawsuit could have gotten him fired from Fox News, where he was then a popular host. Parlatore would not reveal the amount of the payment. He was falsely accused and my position is that he was the victim of blackmail, Parlatore said, calling it a case of successful extortion. The Washington Post earlier reported details of the payment. The newspaper also reported it obtained a copy of a memo sent to Trumps transition team this past week by a woman who said she is a friend of the accuser that details the sexual assault allegations. Trumps transition team had no immediate comment Sunday on the memo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The person who reported the assault whose name, age and sex were not released had bruises on the right thigh, according to the citys statement. No weapons were involved in the encounter, the person told police. The incident occurred sometime between 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 7 and 7 a.m. the following morning, according to the citys statement. Hegseth was in Monterey at the time to address the California Federation of Republican Women during a banquet dinner held at the groups biennial convention, according to social media posts and promotional materials from the time. Monterey officials said they were withholding further details included in the police report because it included analysis and conclusions by law enforcement officials that are exempt from release under state public records law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time of the 2017 accusations, Hegseth, now 44, was going through a divorce with his second wife, with whom he has three children. She filed for divorce after he had a child with a Fox News producer who is now his wife, according to court records and social media posts by Hegseth. His first marriage ended in 2009, also after infidelity by Hegseth, according to court records. After the accusations first surfaced last week, Steven Cheung, a spokesman for the Trump transition, issued a statement saying the president-elect is nominating high-caliber and extremely qualified candidates to serve in his Administration. Mr. Hegseth has vigorously denied any and all accusations, and no charges were filed. We look forward to his confirmation as United States Secretary of Defense so he can get started on Day One to Make America Safe and Great Again, Cheung said. A fracking site in Greeley, Colorado, is pictured on June 24, 2020. (Andy Bosselman for Newsline) Republican President-elect Donald Trump announced Saturday he wants Chris Wright, a Colorado oil and gas executive who denies that the world faces a climate crisis, to serve the new administration as Department of Energy secretary. Wright will also be a member of the Council of National Energy, the formation of which was announced Friday. Details on the council are scarce, but its widely viewed as a further indication that the Trump administration intends to boost domestic fossil fuel and other energy production. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chris will be a key leader, driving innovation, cutting red tape, and ushering in a new Golden Age of American Prosperity and Global Peace,' a statement from the Trump transition team said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The Energy Department oversees the nations nuclear infrastructure and energy policy. Wright, who grew up and still lives in Colorado, is the founder, CEO, and board chair of Liberty Energy, based in Denver. Last year in a video he posted to LinkedIn, Wright dismissed phrases such as climate crisis, energy transition and clean energy as alarmist, deceptive marketing terms. He acknowledged that global warming has occurred, but he chafed at its characterization as a crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The only thing resembling a crisis with respect to climate change is the regressive, opportunity-squelching policies justified in the name of climate change, he said in the video. He suggested that any warming attributable to the burning of fossil fuels is worth the benefits, such as wealth, health and opportunity, that fossil fuel energy brings. He spread misinformation in the video. We have seen no increase in the frequency or intensity of hurricanes, tornadoes, droughts or floods despite endless fearmongering of the media, politicians and activists. This is not my opinion. This is the facts as contained in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change reports, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement IPCC reports actually say the opposite. Evidence of observed changes in extremes such as heatwaves, heavy precipitation, droughts, and tropical cyclones, and, in particular, their attribution to human influence, has further strengthened since (the previous report cycle), the IPCCs 2023 synthesis report says. Human influence has likely increased the chance of compound extreme events since the 1950s, including increases in the frequency of concurrent heatwaves and droughts. Wrights views directly contradict the Energy Departments climate change mission under Democratic President Joe Biden. There is no greater challenge facing our nation and our planet than the climate crisis, the departments website says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wrights nomination is one of several made by Trump such as that of former Republican U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida to be attorney general and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead Health and Human Services that appear intentionally disruptive. Picking someone like Chris Wright is a clear sign that Trump wants to turn the U.S. into a pariah petrostate, Jean Su, director of the Center for Biological Diversitys energy justice program, said in a statement. Hes damning frontline communities and our planet to climate hell just to pad the already bloated pockets of fossil fuel tycoons. Bidens Department of Energy secretary is Jennifer Granholm, former Democratic Michigan governor. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE An oil pump jack and a wind energy turbines are shown in Williams County, N.D., on Sept. 21, 2024. (Kyle Martin/For the North Dakota Monitor) Republican President-elect Donald Trump announced Saturday he wants Chris Wright, a Colorado oil and gas executive who denies that the world faces a climate crisis, to serve the new administration as Department of Energy secretary. Wright will also be a member of the Council of National Energy, the formation of which was announced Friday. Details on the council are scarce, but its widely viewed as a further indication that the Trump administration intends to boost domestic fossil fuel and other energy production. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chris will be a key leader, driving innovation, cutting red tape, and ushering in a new Golden Age of American Prosperity and Global Peace, a statement from the Trump transition team said. The Energy Department oversees the nations nuclear infrastructure and energy policy. Wright, who grew up and still lives in Colorado, is the founder, CEO, and board chair of Liberty Energy, based in Denver. Last year in a video he posted to LinkedIn, Wright dismissed phrases such as climate crisis, energy transition and clean energy as alarmist, deceptive marketing terms. He acknowledged that global warming has occurred, but he chafed at its characterization as a crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The only thing resembling a crisis with respect to climate change is the regressive, opportunity-squelching policies justified in the name of climate change, he said in the video. He suggested that any warming attributable to the burning of fossil fuels is worth the benefits, such as wealth, health and opportunity, that fossil fuel energy brings. He spread misinformation in the video. We have seen no increase in the frequency or intensity of hurricanes, tornadoes, droughts or floods despite endless fearmongering of the media, politicians and activists. This is not my opinion. This is the facts as contained in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change reports, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement IPCC reports actually say the opposite. Evidence of observed changes in extremes such as heatwaves, heavy precipitation, droughts, and tropical cyclones, and, in particular, their attribution to human influence, has further strengthened since (the previous report cycle), the IPCCs 2023 synthesis report says. Human influence has likely increased the chance of compound extreme events since the 1950s, including increases in the frequency of concurrent heatwaves and droughts. Wrights views directly contradict the Energy Departments climate change mission under Democratic President Joe Biden. There is no greater challenge facing our nation and our planet than the climate crisis, the departments website says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wrights nomination is one of several made by Trump such as that of former Republican U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida to be attorney general and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead Health and Human Services that appear intentionally disruptive. Picking someone like Chris Wright is a clear sign that Trump wants to turn the U.S. into a pariah petrostate, Jean Su, director of the Center for Biological Diversitys energy justice program, said in a statement. Hes damning frontline communities and our planet to climate hell just to pad the already bloated pockets of fossil fuel tycoons. Bidens Department of Energy secretary is Jennifer Granholm, former Democratic Michigan governor. Colorado Newsline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Colorado Newsline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Quentin Young for questions: info@coloradonewsline.com. Follow Colorado Newsline on Facebook and X. (NEXSTAR) President-elect Donald Trump, during a meeting with House Republicans on Wednesday, made an apparent joke in which he remarked that the GOP might want to do something that would somehow allow him to serve a third term in 2028. I suspect I wont be running again, unless you do something, Trump said, according to audio shared with The Hill. Unless you say, Hes so good, we have to just figure it out. Trumps remarks garnered some laughs from the GOP lawmakers, a couple of whom dismissed them as a joke. But Trump has made similar comments in the past, having previously floated the ideas of extending his term or somehow disregarding term limits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Inflation is cooling, but these 5 things are still getting more expensive As it stands, however, the 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution bars any president from serving more than two terms regardless of whether those terms are consecutive or not. No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice, and no person who has held the office of President, or acted as President, for more than two years of a term to which some other person was elected President shall be elected to the office of the President more than once, reads the amendment, in part. The idea behind this amendment was introduced for consideration in 1947, in response to President Franklin D. Roosevelt winning four consecutive terms in office. Franklin, who died just months into his fourth term, was the only president to get elected more than twice (though other presidents before him had indeed attempted to secure third terms). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There have also been dozens of attempts to repeal the amendment in the years since its introduction, though none had made any significant progress. But could the 22nd Amendment be repealed under the coming Trump administration with GOP majorities in the Senate and the House? Its not likely. Repealing an amendment would require a new amendment itself, the National Constitution Center, a non-profit dedicated to studying and educating about the U.S. Constitution, explains. But any new amendment must have the backing of two-thirds of the House and Senate and the incoming GOP does not have enough seats to secure its passing. Two-thirds of state legislators could also call for a constitutional convention to propose the new amendment, but three-quarters of the states would have to approve it another unlikely scenario. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Democratic lawmaker in New York isnt taking any chances, though. Rep. Dan Goldman said last week he was filing to clarify the wording of the 22nd Amendment, to make it clearer that the terms described therein apply to two terms in the aggregate, The New York Times reported. The resolution likely will never reach a vote under House Speaker Mike Johnson, the outlet noted. Searches for moving to Canada spike during U.S. presidential election Congress has previously acknowledged, however, that it may still be possible for a two-term president to once again become president, largely due to language in the 22nd and 12th Amendments that could be interpreted to suggest the possibility that a former president ascend to the presidency, in very specific situations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [N]either Amendment addresses the eligibility of a former two-term President to serve as Speaker of the House or as one of the other officers who could serve as President through operation of the Succession Act, according to an overview from the Congressional online database. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. (The Hill) President-elect Trump on Saturday announced he would nominate Chris Wright, a donor and fracking company leader, to serve as his Energy secretary. Chris has been a leading technologist and entrepreneur in Energy. He has worked in Nuclear, Solar, Geothermal, and Oil and Gas, Trump said in a statement announcing the pick. Most significantly, Chris was one of the pioneers who helped launch the American Shale Revolution that fueled American Energy Independence, and transformed the Global Energy Markets and Geopolitics. Wright, a Trump donor, is the CEO of Liberty Energy, a fracking and oilfield services company. Wright will require Senate confirmation to lead the Department of Energy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to that role, Trump said Wright would serve on a newly formed Council of National Energy being led by his nominee for Interior secretary, Doug Burgum. That council will focus on cutting regulations and increasing investments to ramp up oil and gas production. Trump has pledged to increase drilling upon taking office, even as the U.S. set records for oil production under the Biden administration, and he has signaled support for the fracking industry. The Energy Department oversees oil and gas production and exports, as well as the nations nuclear weapons program. Fracking, which is short for hydraulic fracturing, is an oil and gas extraction technique that kicked off the shale revolution greatly boosting companies energy production potential and helping to make the U.S. the worlds top producer of oil and gas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The technology is controversial however, because of oil and gass contribution to climate change, as well as frackings links to earthquakes and childhood cancers. Trump ally and donor Harold Hamm, an energy executive, recently told publication Hart Energy that Wright was his top choice for energy secretary. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. The streets of Lahore are choking under a toxic blanket of smog, with air quality reaching unprecedented hazardous levels, putting the city's 14 million residents in peril. Smog stings eyes and burns throats, and for many, the only refuge is staying indoors, though even that offers little relief. With air purifiers a luxury few can afford, people like Rafia Iqbal, a primary school teacher, are facing a growing health crisis, The Express Tribune reported. "The children are constantly coughing, they have constant allergies," she said. "In schools we saw that most of the children were falling sick." The pollution crisis has grown so severe that the Punjab provincial government, which includes Lahore, has temporarily closed schools until November 17 to minimise children's exposure, particularly during their morning commutes when the pollution is most concentrated. However, for residents like Muhammad Safdar, a 41-year-old advertising professional, life has become nearly impossible. "We cannot move around, we cannot go outside, we can do nothing at all," he said. Lahore regularly ranks among the world's most polluted cities, and this month, the city has exceeded hazardous levels on the Air Quality Index (AQI), with values often soaring above 1,000. In Multan, about 350 kilometres away, AQI levels passed a staggering 2,000 -- a height that left many residents in disbelief. The severe pollution is not just an inconvenience, but a health crisis that affects the most vulnerable groups in the city, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues. With parks, playgrounds, and other recreational areas closed, and bans in place on polluting vehicles and businesses, Lahore is trying to mitigate the damage, reported The Express Tribune. However, the city's grim reality is underscored by the absence of effective solutions. Air purifiers, often priced at USD 90 or more, are out of reach for most families. "Preventive measures should have been taken. It's a yearly occurrence," Safdar said. "Obviously, there is something missing in their solution." The toxic haze blanketing Lahore is primarily caused by a mix of emissions from industrial factories, vehicle exhaust, and seasonal agricultural stubble burning. These pollutants are trapped by cooler temperatures and slow-moving winds, leaving the city at the mercy of a persistent, unhealthy atmosphere. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), exposure to such high levels of pollution can lead to strokes, heart disease, lung cancer, and respiratory diseases. Children, babies, and the elderly are especially at risk. In hospitals across the city, doctors are witnessing a surge in patients suffering from the effects of the smog. Qurat ul Ain, who has been practicing medicine for 15 years, reported a noticeable increase in patients this year. "This year smog is much more than previous years, and the number of patients suffering from its effects is greater too," she said. Many arrive with laboured breathing, coughing fits, and reddened eyes, particularly the elderly and children who have been exposed to the toxic air while commuting. "We tell people not to go out and otherwise to wear a mask," she added. "We tell them not to touch their eyes with their hands, especially children." The pollution levels in Lahore have exceeded the WHO's recommended levels by dozens of times, with fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations reaching dangerous heights. Climate activist Alia Haider calls for greater awareness about the dangers of smog, especially for children living in already polluted areas. "We are stuck in our own poison," she said, describing the city's atmosphere as "like a cloud of gas over the city." As residents continue to endure the smog, the Punjab government's efforts to alleviate the situation have been largely unsuccessful. Last year, the government tried artificial rain, and this year, trucks with water cannons sprayed the streets, but these measures have not yielded significant results, The Express Tribune reported. "The government needs to do more. It's not enough," Haider said, emphasising the urgency of tackling the problem. Until more sustainable solutions are found, the residents of Lahore will continue to live under the toxic shadow of smog, hoping for change that may come too late for many. (ANI) Donald Trumps transition team is reportedly preparing a list of current and former military officers who could be court-martialled for their involvement in the chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal in 2021. Mr Trumps team is considering creating a commission which could examine whether military leaders could face charges, including treason, according to an official and a person familiar with the plan, cited by NBC. Mr Bidens popularity plummeted amid the horrific scenes at Kabul airport when hundreds of Afghans attempted to access planes to escape. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A suicide bombing at Hamid Karzai International Airport killed 11 US Marines and 170 Afghan civilians. The US left behind $7 billion worth of military equipment in the hasty withdrawal. Now, the second Trump administration plans to investigate who was responsible for implementing the plan to leave. It was reported that Matt Flynn, a former deputy assistant secretary of defence for counter-narcotics and global threats will lead the review which will also examine how the US entered Afghanistan in the first place. However, this was denied by his lawyer, Mark Zaid, in a statement. No one has sought out Mr Flynns views on this hypothetical legal scenario. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another unnamed source in the campaign also sought to play down the report, saying it had been floated by individuals trying to get a job in the administration. However, there has been little love between Mr Trump and some of his generals. The former president said Americas top military officer, General Mark Milley, who had phoned the Chinese to reassure Beijing after the storming of the Capitol on Jan 6 2021, should be executed. Turning to his own Truth Social media channel, Mr Trump wrote that Gen Milley had committed an act so egregious that, in times gone by, the punishment would have been DEATH. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The call was in fact authorised by senior officials within the Trump administration. Mr Trump wants to hold military chiefs to account for the evacuation - Marcus Yam/Polaris / eyevine Gen Milley responded on CBS News. My family and I have sacrificed a great deal for this country, my mother and father before them. As much as these comments are directed against me, they are also directed against the institution of the military and there are 2.1 million of us. The American people can take it to the bank that every single one of us, from the private to the general are loyal to the constitution, no matter what the threats. John Kelly, a retired four-star general who served as Mr Trumps chief of staff, described his former boss as: A person that has no idea what America stands for and has no idea what America is all about. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A person who cavalierly suggests that a selfless warrior who has served his country for 40 years in peacetime and war should lose his life for treason in expectation that someone will take action. Calls for Pentagon purge Earlier this week Reuters reported that the transition team was compiling a list of military officials to be sacked in particular allies of Gen Milley, who described Mr Trump as a fascist. Pete Hegseth, who Mr Trump has nominated as his Defence Secretary, has also called for a Pentagon purge. The next president of the United States needs to radically overhaul Pentagon senior leadership to make us ready to defend our nation and defeat our enemies. Lots of people need to be fired, he wrote in his 2024 book The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A purge is not unprecedented, Christopher Preble, senior fellow and director of the Reimagining US Grand Strategy Program at the Stimson Centre, told The Telegraph. There are legitimate concerns that this will be politicised by Trump and his acolytes. But the president has the authority to fire or reassign serving military officers. The Telegraph contacted Mr Trumps team for comment. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The tariffs Donald Trump proposed while campaigning could help create US semiconductor jobs. Tariffs could also help US chipmakers compete with companies abroad that sell chips at lower prices. To be sure, the impacts of a tariff policy on chips could be mixed. If president-elect Donald Trump follows through on his campaign promise to impose tariffs, the domestic semiconductor industry could see job gains. Industry experts told Business Insider that tariffs on foreign-made chips could help level the playing field for US chipmakers, which are facing fierce competition from their counterparts abroad. The tariffs could also encourage US businesses to source more chips domestically and help persuade chipmaking giants, like the Taiwan-based TSMC, to keep building factories in the US. These developments could aid job growth in the US semiconductor industry, though experts disagreed on how much. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump's proposed tariff policies include a 60% tariff on goods coming from China and up to a 20% tariff on all imports, including chips. US companies source many of the chips needed to power items like iPhones and washing machines from abroad: The US share of overall chip production fell from 37% of the world's supply in 1990 to roughly 10% today. In an interview with podcaster Joe Rogan in October, Trump criticized the Biden administration's CHIPS Act legislation, which included $52.7 billion in tax breaks and subsidies for companies in the semiconductor industry. He said that the federal government should have implemented tariffs instead to motivate global chipmakers to build more factories in the US, which would then create jobs. "You didn't have to put up $0.10," Trump said. "You could have done it with tariffs. You tariff it so high that they will come and build their chip companies for nothing." To be sure, the impacts of a tariff policy on chips could be mixed. Jeff Koch, an analyst at the semiconductor research and consulting firm SemiAnalysis, told BI that tariffs could lead to higher prices for goods containing chips, such as cars, electronics, and appliances. He added that US chipmakers could likely benefit from these tariffs because it could help them compete with companies abroad that sell chips at lower prices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump campaign did not respond to a request for comment. Tariffs on chips could boost construction and manufacturing jobs Patrick Moorhead, founder, CEO, and chief analyst at the research and advisory firm Moor Insights and Strategy, told BI that tariffs could increase the number of US chip manufacturing jobs. He added that he thinks the policy could incentivize chipmakers like TSMC and Samsung, which is based in South Korea, to boost manufacturing in the US. "The cost of manufacturing in the US for Samsung and TSMC would be lower than a 30% to 40% tariff on wafers and packaging," he said, referring to key components of the chipmaking process. Jeff Ferry, chief economist at the Coalition for a Prosperous America, a nonprofit that advocates for increasing domestic manufacturing, estimated that tariffs could create roughly 100,000 jobs at US chip manufacturers and their suppliers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said this estimate was partly based on a report published in 2021 by the Semiconductor Industry Association a trade association and lobbying group that said a $50 billion investment would help create an estimated 10 additional chip factories in the US. That could add about 42,000 direct jobs at the companies building these factories and 101,500 indirect jobs at chipmakers' suppliers, per the report. Ferry said he thought chip tariffs could lead to the creation of roughly 10 additional factories, which led him to come to the 100,000 jobs estimate. In August, the White House said that investments supported by CHIPS Act funding would help create 115,000 construction and manufacturing jobs. "Tariffs on chips, particularly legacy chips like those used in autos, could successfully shift production back to the US," Ferry said. Samsung did not respond to a request for comment. Intel and TSMC did not respond to a question about what impact a Trump administration tariff policy would have on each company's job creation plans in the US. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An Intel spokesperson pointed to a press release from March, which said the company's $100 billion investment in the US over the next five years is expected to create more than 10,000 jobs at Intel and nearly 20,000 construction jobs. TSMC pointed to a press release from April, that said TSMC's investments in three Arizona chip factories are expected to create roughly 6,000 company jobs, more than 20,000 construction jobs, and tens of thousands of indirect supplier and consumer jobs. Stephen Ezell, the vice president for global innovation policy at the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation, said that the effectiveness of a tariff on chips could be limited, in part because many chips aren't imported directly into the US: He said they often come embedded into finished products like smartphones or computers. For example, he said that in most cases, chips that TSMC manufactures in Taiwan for Apple are sent to China or India to be incorporated into a product like an iPhone. Therefore, the chip wouldn't be subject to a US tariff but the iPhone would. When deciding whether to build a chip factory in the US, Ezell said several factors including wage rates, the labor talent pool, and tax policy would be bigger considerations for companies than the country's tariff policy. But if tariffs proved to be the deciding factor in a company's decision to invest in the US, then Ezell said the policy could arguably be credited with boosting employment in the semiconductor industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If a company did decide not to launch a factory elsewhere and instead launch it in the United States, then yes, this dynamic could lead companies to hire more," he said. Do you work in the US semiconductor industry? Reach out to this reporter at jzinkula@businessinsider.com Read the original article on Business Insider Former principal deputy director of national intelligence Sue Gordon doesnt like Tulsi Gabbards push for Edward Snowden to receive a presidential pardon. She told Margaret Brennan on Face the Nation that the request reflects a lack of understanding of who we are, and it reflects a lack of respect for what we do. Gordon continued, Unauthorized disclosures of intelligence are always bad. Dont go with the good or bad, any good outcome or whether he was right or wrong. He had no authority, and he had different paths, and he harmed America. On Tulsi Gabbard advocating for a pardon for Edward Snowden, who leaked classified national intelligence material and was charged with violating the Espionage Act, Sue Gordon, former principal deputy director of national intelligence during Trump's first administration says: It pic.twitter.com/N4Hry84Wcg Face The Nation (@FaceTheNation) November 17, 2024 He not only harmed intelligence, he harmed our allies and partners, and he harmed our businesses by what it allowed China to assume about that. There is nothing justifiable about what hes done. None. And so if they vacate it, what theyre basically saying is all those rules you follow in order to be able to serve America, they dont matter anymore. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2020, Gabbard and Matt Gaetz cosponsored H. Res. 1162 (IH), a resolution that called for the federal government to drop all charges against Snowden. The push was one that Gabbard also expressed during her own presidential campaign ahead of the 2020 election. She said on The Joe Rogan Experience that If it wasnt for Snowden, the American people would never have learned the NSA was collecting phone records and spying on Americans. As president, I will protect whistle-blowers who expose threats to our freedom and liberty, Gabbard added. In 2013, Snowden was an IT expert working for the National Security Agency when he decided to meet three journalists in Hong Kong and deliver them thousands of top-secret documents about the U.S. governments surveillance of citizens. While Snowden thought of himself as a whistleblower, the government labeled him a traitor who committed espionage. Snowden traveled from Hong Kong to Russia, where he planned to depart for Ecuador. The U.S. government canceled his passport while he was in transit. He attempted to gain asylum elsewhere, but ultimately has stayed in Russia ever since. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2019, Snowden explained to NPR that the government was collecting [data] on everyone, everywhere, all of the time, just in case, because you never know whats going to be interesting And so what happened was every time we wrote an email, every time you typed something into that Google search box, every time your phone moved, you sent a text message, you made a phone call the boundaries of the Fourth Amendment were being changed. In 2016, Snowden hoped that President Obama would pardon him for the crime before Donald Trump was sworn in as president. The possibility for a pardon, it seems to every expert whos looked at this issue, has never been more likely, he told Katie Couric. And this is a surprise to myself more than anyone else, I think. He also added that hes never met Russias President Putin and has no intention to. You can watch the interview with Sue Gordon in the video above. The post Tulsi Gabbards Edward Snowden Pardon Push Reflects a Lack of Respect, Says Former Director of National Intelligence | Video appeared first on TheWrap. By Tora Agarwala GUWAHATI, India (Reuters) -Police arrested 23 people on Sunday in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur for ransacking and setting fire to the homes of lawmakers and ministers, while hundreds demonstrated against recent violent killings in defiance of a curfew. The violence, marking the second straight day of unrest in the area, has led to a tense standoff in Imphal, the state capital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The situation is relatively calm today but unpredictable, a senior state police official told Reuters, adding the situation was being closely monitored. Since May 2023, inter-communal clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities have resulted in at least 250 deaths and displaced 60,000 people in the region. As a result Manipur has become divided into two ethnic enclaves: the Meitei controlled valley, and the Kuki-dominated hills, separated by a stretch of no-man's land monitored by federal forces. Tensions flared last week when a 31-year-old woman from the Kuki tribal community was burned alive. Kuki groups have blamed Meitei militants for the act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Citing a failure by state Chief Minister N Biren Singh to resolve the crisis, the National People's Party, an ally of the ruling BJP with seven lawmakers in the 60-member state assembly, announced on Sunday its withdrawal of support from the state government. The 23 arrests followed Saturday's violence, which involved what a police statement said was the "ransacking and arson" of the houses of several state lawmakers and ministers. "Police resorted to firing tear gas shells to disperse the mob. Eight persons have been injured in the process," the statement said, adding additional security forces were deployed. An indefinite curfew was imposed on Saturday and internet and mobile services were suspended after protesters tried to storm the residences of several lawmakers including Chief Minister Singh. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protesters are demanding accountability for the deadly violence, that has, in the latest incident, claimed the lives of at least two women and two children. The body of a woman, and that of a two-year-old child, believed to be members of a missing Meitei family, were on Sunday found in a river, after three other bodies, including two children, were recovered on Friday. Identification is ongoing, but they are likely linked to the missing family, a district administration official from Jiribam told Reuters. A Kuki man's body was also found from the area on Sunday though authorities have yet to confirm cause of death, but said it could be linked to the violence. (Writing by Manoj Kumar; Editing by David Holmes) SNOW HILL, N.C. (WNCT) Two 18-year-olds were arrested after Snow Hill police officers found a vehicle that had been reported stolen on Jordan Ave. When officers approached the vehicle with the registered owner, the two suspects left the scene, almost dragging one officer as she tried to stop them. After a short distance, the suspects exited the vehicle and ran away. A K9 officer from Lenoir County was brought in to help the search for the suspects. Both were caught and taken to the Greene County Detention Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deonta Anre Suggs, 18, was charged with: Possession of a stolen motor vehicle Assault with a deadly weapon Resisting a public officer Suggs was jailed under a $20,000 secured bond. Jalen Deron Smith, 18, was charged with: Possession of a stolen motor vehicle Resisting a public officer Smith was jailed without bond due to him being out on pre-trial release for a separate charge. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT. KYIV (Reuters) -Two children were among 11 people killed when a Russian missile hit a residential building in Ukraine's northeastern city of Sumy, Ukrainian officials said, while another missile strike left the region's administrative centre without power. Eighty-nine people, including 11 children, were also injured in the attack on the city late on Sunday, Ukraine's state emergency service said via the Telegram messaging app. The attack on Sumy followed a morning of Russia pounding Ukraine's power grid in what Kyiv said was a "massive" attack with 120 missiles and 90 drones that killed at least seven people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Sunday evening for the city of Sumy became hell, a tragedy that Russia brought to our land," Volodymyr Artyukh, the head of the Sumy military administration said in a post on the administration's Telegram messaging channel. The military administration said another missile hit critical infrastructure, leaving the city without power. Ukraine's air force said that Russian forces used two Iskander-M ballistic missiles and a Kh-59 guided missile in the overnight attack. Rescuers and all necessary services continued to work at the scene and psychologists were providing assistance to those affected, the State Emergency Service of Ukraine said on Telegram. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 400 people were evacuated, the Service added. Photographs posted on Telegram by State Emergency Service of Ukraine showed firefighters battling a blaze consuming cars and rescuers carrying people out of a building. One image showed a multi-storey building with nearly all windows blown out and its facade damaged. Sumy regional prosecutors said the attack damaged 90 apartments, 28 cars, two educational institutions and 13 buildings. Reuters was able to independently verify the location with the outline, position and design of the buildings that match the file and satellite imagery of the area. Reuters was able to confirm the date with corroborating reports of the local prosecutor and emergency services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was no immediate comment from Moscow. Both sides deny targeting civilians in their strikes on each other's territory. But thousands have died since early 2022 in Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the vast majority of them Ukrainians. (Reporting by Olena Harmash, Tom Balmforth and Anastasiia Malenko in Kyiv, Lidia Kelly in Melbourne and Monica Naime in Mexico City; Editing by Kevin Liffey, Lincoln Feast and Toby Chopra) UNION COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) Crews are responding to a home explosion in Union County where two people are injured, officials said. Union County Communications said the call came in around 8:50 a.m. on Sunday to 240 Steeplechase Circle in Weddington. Officials tell Queen City News two people were inside at the time of the explosion. A man is being flown to Wake Forest Burn Center in Winston-Salem in critical condition and a woman is at a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. There was no fire, but the home is considered a total loss. Search and rescue is stabilizing the house so the Fire Marshals Office can start investigating the cause of the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Multiple fire departments, including the Charlotte Fire Department, are assisting Wesley Chapel crews at the scene. The Union County Fire Marshals Office is the lead agency, officials said. This is still a working scene and authorities are expected to speak about the incident at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday. This is a Developing Story . Check back for updates Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. The large-scale Russian attack on 17 November damaged the energy infrastructure of Odesa Oblast, causing interruptions in the supply of heat, water and electricity. Source: Odesa Oblast Military Administration; Ukraine's State Emergency Service (SES) Details: The SES reported that a teenager had been injured in the strikes on Odesa Oblast. The bombardment caused fires in three houses and partially destroyed four others. An emergency worker providing psychological assistance at the site of the Russian attack. An emergency worker providing psychological assistance at the site of the Russian attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo: Ukraine's State Emergency Service Emergency workers also found a lost dog and handed it over to its owners. An emergency worker carrying the dog. Photo: Ukraine's State Emergency Service Emergency power cuts have been introduced in Odesa Oblast based on instructions from Ukrenergo, Ukraine's state-owned electricity transmission system operator. Hospitals and other critical infrastructure are running on generators. Updated: Two people were killed in the Russian attack, as reported by the head of Odesa Oblast Military Administration on the national joint 24/7 newscast. Support UP or become our patron! Two employees of the substation operated by Ukrenergo, Ukraine's state-owned power transmission system operator, were murdered as a result of a large-scale Russian attack on 17 November. Source: press service of Ukrenergo Details: According to Ukrenergo, Dmytro Kaminnyi and Maksym Sharhorodskyi have been killed in the attack. Kaminnyi was 41, and he had worked for Ukrenergo for 16 years. He had been the dispatcher at one of the electrical substations since 2012, and he lost his life there on 17 November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sharhorodskyi was 44 years old. He has worked at the Ukrenergo substation since 2005, first as an electrician and later as a dispatcher. He was mobilised from the start of the full-scale war until May 2023. After his return, he continued to work as an electrician. According to the Ministry of Energy, Dmytro Kaminnyi and Maksym Sharhorodskyi worked at an Ukrenergo substation in Odesa Oblast that was targeted by the Russians. Previously, the Odesa Oblast Prosecutor's Office stated that two energy facility personnel were killed as a result of Russian bombardment of the region's energy infrastructure; a pre-trial investigation has been launched. Background: The large-scale Russian attack on 17 November damaged the energy infrastructure of Odesa Oblast, causing interruptions in the supply of heat, water and electricity. Two people were killed in the Russian attack, as reported by the head of Odesa Oblast Military Administration on the national joint 24/7 newscast. Support UP or become our patron! When it all boils down, this seven day forecast is fairly simple: wind, moisture, rain, thunderstorms, and a big chill. First, we say adios to high pressure that has provided our very nice weather. Our ridge of high pressure will slide to the east of the ArkLaTex leading to SE winds which will tap into abundant moisture from the Gulf of Mexico tonight and Sunday. Clouds will be on the increase tonight, which will produce warmer temperatures in the 50s to low 60s. At the same time, an upper trough of low pressure and attendant cold front will move into the SW U. S. which will lead to abundant Pacific moisture, which will eventually arrive in our area. Scattered showers will develop early Sunday from the west, and will eventually invade most of our area. Current Futurecast Loop The entire system, including the cold front, will make a rapid trip across Texas and enter our area by Monday. At this point, we will find a Marginal Risk, the lowest risk, for severe storms with the main threat being damaging winds along and ahead of the cold front. The good news is that it will be fast-moving and should exit our area by early Tuesday. Severe Storm Risk Today Current Wind Gusts This will be followed by a potent cold front, which will bring an extremely cold air mass our way. The change in temperatures will be easily felt with NNW winds up to 30-35 mph. Dry but chilly weather prevails into next weekend. Note that the northernmost counties of our area may have temperatures near freezing Thursday and Friday mornings. Lows Tomorrow Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Highs Tomorrow Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com. Nigeria will honour Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the Grand Commander of The Order of the Niger (GCON). The makes PM Modi second foriegn dignitary to receive this honour. Queen Elizabeth is the only foreign dignitary who has been awarded with GCON in 1969. This will be the 17th such international award being conferred to PM Modi by a country. PM Modi on Sunday arrived in Nigeria on the first leg of his three-nation tour. Upon his arrival, PM Modi was warmly welcomed by Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, Minister for Federal Capital Territory in Abuja, the capital city of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Wike presented PM Modi with the 'Key to the City' of Abuja. The key symbolises the trust and honour bestowed on the PM by the people of Nigeria. The Prime Minister is scheduled to hold bilateral discussions in Nigeria to strengthen the ties between both countries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a three-nation tour to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana scheduled from November 17 to November 21.PM Modi issued a statement indicating his first stop in Nigeria, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's invitation, aimed at strengthening strategic ties between both countries. "At the invitation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this will be my first visit to Nigeria, which is our close partner in the West African region. My visit will be an opportunity to build upon our Strategic Partnership that is based on shared belief in democracy and pluralism. I am also eagerly looking forward to meeting the Indian community and friends from Nigeria who have sent me warm welcome messages in Hindi," the statement said. India and Nigeria enjoy warm, friendly, and deep-rooted bilateral relations. The visit by PM Modi is the first visit by a Prime Minister of India to Nigeria in 17 years. India is emerging as a development partner of Nigeria on two fronts - by offering developmental assistance through concessional loans and by offering capacity-building training programmes. India and Nigeria have been strategic partners since 2007 with growing economic, energy and defence collaboration. More than 200 Indian companies have invested over USD 27 billion in important sectors in Nigeria. India and Nigeria also share a strong development cooperation partnership.During the visit, the Prime Minister will hold talks to review the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria and discuss further avenues to enhance the bilateral relationship. (ANI) The UK has been warned to brace for snow, ice and travel disruption this week as an Arctic blast sweeps through the country. The Met Office has issued two yellow weather warnings for snow and ice from Sunday until Tuesday morning affecting Scotland, northern England and parts of the Midlands. Up to 20cm could fall on high ground in the South Pennines and up to 10cm on lower ground. If the snow continues to fall into Monday, the Met Office said that affected areas could experience disruption to rush hour traffic on Tuesday morning, particularly for those commuting on higher ground. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Andy Page, the chief meteorologist at the Met Office, said: [There is] potential for a spell of snow to lead to disruption to some transport routes across a central swathe of the UK on Tuesday morning. Gusty winds in the east also remain a potential hazard. Updates to the warnings for wintry hazards are likely so it is important to stay up to date with the latest forecast. Yellow weather warning UPDATED Snow & ice across southern parts of Scotland, northern England, the Midlands and north Wales Monday 1900 Tuesday 1000 Latest info https://t.co/QwDLMfRBfs Stay #WeatherAware pic.twitter.com/rOZOUBBRuP Met Office (@metoffice) November 17, 2024 Temperatures across the UK this week are expected to be far lower than the mid-November average. In London, temperatures are predicted to hit freezing on Wednesday night, 8C lower than this time last year. The last time snowfall caused travel disruption in November was in 2010, which was followed by the coldest December on record. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sudden drop in temperatures raises concern for those who are particularly vulnerable or struggle to cope in the cold, like the elderly and young children. The UK Health Security Agency has issued a yellow cold health alert for the health sector in England, which will last until Thursday. The traffic-light alert system is triggered when there is a risk that healthcare services might face extra pressure as a result of winter weather. On Thursday, it was reported that 74,400 elderly people faced a 10-week delay on their winter fuel payments after Labours decision to scrap the universal claim in July triggered a surge in pension credit applications. With snow and ice in the forecast for some over the coming days, here is some advice about driving in snow from the experts at National Highways and the RAC.#WeatherReady Met Office (@metoffice) November 17, 2024 Dr Siama Latif, the associate medical director at NHS 24 in Scotland, said: When the weather gets colder this can have an impact on everyones health and wellbeing, but especially those who could be considered vulnerable, such as the very young, the elderly, or those with long-term health conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you have vulnerable neighbours or relatives, or know someone who may need additional support, its a good idea to check in with them to make sure they are feeling well, are warm enough at home, and have enough food and medicines if they are unable to go out in bad weather. Katherine Crawford, the chief executive of charity Age Scotland, said: There is also a concern for older people who have difficulty heating their homes to a comfortable level because of the bigger energy bills we are facing. There is concern too for those with restricted mobility, who may find it harder to get out and about while travel disruption prevents people from being able to get from one place to another safely. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has stated that by targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure, Russia is once again attempting to weaken the country's resolve. Source: Lammy on X (Twitter), reported by European pravda Details: Lammy emphasised the UK's continued support for Ukraine "for as long as it takes". Quote: "Russia's deplorable strikes against Ukraine's energy infrastructure, ahead of Ukraine's 3rd winter of war, further shows Putin's desire to weaken the resolve of a country he thought would be beaten in days. It won't work. We stand with Ukraine. Today and for as long as it takes." Russia's deplorable strikes against Ukraine's energy infrastructure, ahead of Ukraine's 3rd winter of war, further shows Putin's desire to weaken the resolve of a country he thought would be beaten in days. It won't work. We stand with Ukraine. Today and for as long as it takes. David Lammy (@DavidLammy) November 17, 2024 Background: In the early hours of 17 November, Russian forces launched a combined strike on Ukraines energy sector using 210 missiles and drones, 144 of which were intercepted. Ukraines Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha described the latest large-scale missile attack as a response by war criminal Vladimir Putin to recent calls and visits from foreign leaders. Moldovan President Maia Sandu also strongly condemned Russias latest attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Support UP or become our patron! UK Defence Intelligence has noted the growing pressure of Russian forces on the city of Kupiansk in Kharkiv Oblast. Source: UK Defence Intelligence update dated 17 November on X (Twitter), as reported by European Pravda Details: "Russian forces have increased offensive pressure on Kupiansk city, Kharkiv region in north-eastern Ukraine. On 13 November 2024, Russian forces likely attempted to infiltrate Kupiansk from the northeast," the update says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UK intelligence noted that Russian troops had reached the Oskil River south of Kupiansk, breaking Ukrainian logistics lines on the eastern bank of the river. The Russian grouping south of Kupiansk is gradually expanding as Russia tries to increase pressure on Ukrainian forces in the area, UK intelligence added. The update stated that the Ukrainian government had ordered the evacuation of Kupiansk and its surrounding areas on 15 October 2024. According to the Kupiansk civil and military administration, approximately 4,000 civilians remain in the area, a significant decrease from its pre-war population of 27,000. "Kupiansk is important as it serves as a transportation intersection and logistics hub. The Ukrainians regained control of Kupiansk in September 2022," the update stressed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: Estonian Defence Forces Intelligence Centre indicates that Russia is amassing troops to try to push Ukrainian forces out of Russia's Kursk Oblast in the coming weeks or months. UK intelligence has previously noted that Russia was continuing to exert pressure in Donetsk Oblast and was maintaining significant forces there, which has led to the latest successes in this area of the war zone. Support UP or become our patron! Ukraine intends to strike Russian territory using US-provided long-range missiles in the coming days. Source: Reuters Details: The agency, citing three sources, confirms that the administration of US President Joe Biden will permit Ukraine to utilise US-supplied weapons to strike deep into Russian territory. Quote: "Ukraine plans to conduct its first long-range attacks in the coming days, the sources said, without revealing details due to operational security concerns." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sources indicated that the initial strikes are likely to be conducted with ATACMS missiles, which have a range of up to 306 kilometres. The White House has declined to comment. The article writes that while some U.S. officials have expressed scepticism that allowing long-range strikes will change the war's overall trajectory, the decision could help Ukraine at a moment when Russian forces are making gains and possibly put Kyiv in a better negotiating position when and if ceasefire talks happen. However, Reuters notes that it remains unclear whether newly elected President Donald Trump will overturn Bidens decision once he assumes office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: US President Joe Biden has, for the first time, authorised Ukrainian forces to use long-range ATACMS missiles to strike Russian territory. The publication's sources state that the missiles will likely first target Russian and North Korean troops so as to protect Ukrainian forces in Russias Kursk Oblast. Support UP or become our patron! KYIV (Reuters) - All Ukrainian regions will experience temporary restrictions on power on Monday following Russia's massive air strike on the energy system, the national grid operator said. Russia unleashed its largest air attack on Ukraine in almost three months on Sunday, killing seven people and further hobbling an already damaged energy system. In a statement, Ukrenergo said temporary cut-offs would last from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m., and that workers were repairing damages as quickly as possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Sunday's strike, Ukrainian officials had confirmed damage to critical infrastructure or power cuts in regions from Volyn, Rivne and Lviv in the west to Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhzhia in the southeast. The extent of the damage was hard to assess because authorities reveal little about the outcome of strikes and the state of the energy grid, which Russia had targeted in an air campaign earlier this year. Russia's defence ministry said it had launched a massive strike on energy facilities that supply Ukraine's military-industrial complex. (Reporting by Dan Peleschuk; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne) In a major policy shift with two months left in office, the Biden administration will allow Ukraine to use U.S.-produced and donated Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) short-range ballistic missiles deep inside Russia. The missiles, which can hit targets of up to about 190 miles away, are likely to first be used in Russias Kursk region, according to The New York Times, citing U.S. officials. The publication was the first to report the administrations change of heart. The policy change was spurred by the presence of North Korean troops fighting in Kursk, the officials said. Ukrainian Lt. Gen. Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraines Defense Intelligence Directorate, told us on Sunday that there are 12,000 North Korean troops now in Kursk. Pyongyang could eventually send 100,000 troops to Russia, Bloomberg reported on Sunday. The long-range weapons Biden has approved are likely to be initially fired against Russian and North Korean troops in defense of Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region of western Russia w/Adam Entous & @julianbarnes https://t.co/cDYuiQbFaH Eric Schmitt (@EricSchmittNYT) November 17, 2024 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia has sent about 50,000 troops, including North Koreans, into Kursk to take back territory lost during Ukraines three-month-old invasion. It marks the second attempt by Russia to push Ukraine out of Kursk. So far, it appears the Russians have been suffering large losses of personnel and equipment without having cut too deeply into Ukraines Kursk salient. Likely targets for Ukraine include logistics nodes, supply lines, ammunition storage and equipment storage sites and large gatherings of troops, adding additional stresses on Russias attempts to dislodge Ukraine before Donald Trump takes office in January. You can see some potential targets in the following map. U.S. to allow Ukraine to use long-range weapons inside Russia, NYT reports. This could be a game-changer for Ukraine, which would allow them to challenge Russian logistics supply lines and air dominance. Below is a map of potential targets from ISW https://t.co/7nqhakKpqi pic.twitter.com/wF23YHm87l Jane Lytvynenko (@JaneLytv) November 17, 2024 First and foremost it is strategic deterrence conventional weapon in current circumstances, a former high-ranking Ukrainian officer told us on Sunday. Secondly, we should be allowed to hit high-priority targets far away from the Ukrainian border. As for now, I would focus not only on military targets but also on military industry objects, gas stations, electrical grids etc. Our strategy will depend on how many and what range ATACMS we get. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Throughout the all-out war, the Biden administration has been cautious about allowing the use of U.S.-supplied weapons in Russia, fearing a backlash by Vladimir Putin, who controls a nuclear-armed military. However, there have been changes to that policy in the past. Back in May, Biden allowed Ukraine to use M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS, with a range of about 50 miles, against targets inside Russia bordering Kharkiv Oblast. It was in response to a Russian counteroffensive in that area. However, the use of ATACMS was prohibited. Ukraine has been using both weapons to a devastating effect inside its own borders. Ukraine has also been using U.S.-donated Joint Direct Attack Munition-Extended Range (JDAM-ER) and Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) precision-guided bombs, as well as French-donated AASM-250 Hammer rocket-assisted bombs in Ukraine and Kursk, SCALP-EG air-launched cruise missiles, and similar British Storm Shadow air-launched cruise missiles on Russian targets in Ukraine. This move could also lead to France and the U.K. easing restrictions on the use of SCALPs and Storm Shadows. A Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS), launched by an M142 HIMARS in service with Ukraine Photo by Serhii Mykhalchuk/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images All this comes ahead of Trumps new presidency, which could see aid to Ukraine greatly diminished or cut off. While saying he can quickly end the war, Trump has yet to offer any specifics and it is unclear exactly just how he will deal with the war, especially if a peace deal cannot be reached. You can read more about this in our deep dive here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will likely find out about the first use of ATACMS in Kursk when videos emerge on social media of missile fragments, or Ukraine makes a public announcement. While they will certainly help, it is believed that Ukraine has only a relatively small supply of these missiles. However, even that puts Russian and North Korean troops in greater danger. Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com MOSCOW (Reuters) - Washington's decision to let Kyiv strike deep into Russia with long-range U.S. missiles escalates the conflict in Ukraine and could lead to World War Three, senior Russian lawmakers said on Sunday. Two U.S. officials and a source familiar with the decision revealed the significant reversal of Washington's policy in the Ukraine-Russia conflict earlier on Sunday. "The West has decided on such a level of escalation that it could end with the Ukrainian statehood in complete ruins by morning," Andrei Klishas, a senior member of the Federation Council, Russia's upper chamber of parliament, said on the Telegram messaging app. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vladimir Dzhabarov, first deputy head of the Russian upper house's international affairs committee, said that Moscow's response will be immediate. "This is a very big step towards the start of World War Three," the TASS state news agency quoted Dzhabarov as saying. President Vladimir Putin said in September that the West would be fighting Russia directly if it allowed Ukraine to strike Russian territory with Western-made long-range missiles, a move he said would alter the nature and scope of the conflict. Russia would be forced to take what Putin called "appropriate decisions" based on the new threats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leonid Slutsky, chairman of the State Duma lower house's foreign affairs committee, said that U.S. authorisation of strikes by Kyiv on Russia with U.S. ATACMS tactical missiles would lead to the toughest response, Russian news agencies reported. "Strikes with U.S. missiles deep into Russian regions will inevitably entail a serious escalation, which threatens to lead to much more serious consequences," TASS news agency quoted Slutsky as saying. (Reporting by Reuters; Editing by Kevin Liffey and Cynthia Osterman) Key developments on Nov. 16-17: Russia launches one of the largest aerial strikes on Ukraine, targets energy grid EU has 'convincing' evidence of reported Chinese attack drone production for Russia, media reports Russia producing thermobaric drones, capable of causing 'terrifying' civilian harm, AP reports Ukrainian partisans say they sabotaged railway in occupied Zaporizhzhia Oblast Russian defense plant over 1,300 km from Ukraine reportedly hit by drone strike Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone attack on Ukraine overnight on Nov. 17, leaving at least seven civilians dead and at least 19 injured across multiple regions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Multiple loud explosions were reported in the capital, Kyiv, between 6:30 and 7:15 a.m. local time, according to a Kyiv Independent journalist on the ground. Russia's latest barrage of missile strikes marks the first mass missile attack on Kyiv in over 2 months, with Russia instead utilizing more frequent drone strikes in recent months to attack the capital. Further explosions were also heard in the cities of Kropyvnytskyi, Rivne, Ivano-Frankivsk, Cherkasy, Dnipro, Vinnytsia, Kryvyi Rih, Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, as well as in the Khmelnytskyi and Volyn oblasts. Russia targeted "power generation and transmission facilities throughout Ukraine," according to Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The transmission system operator has urgently introduced emergency shutdowns," Halushchenko said. Officials have been warning that Russia may resume strikes on the energy grid as temperatures drop, mirroring the strategy used in the spring and summer of this year and in the autumn-winter season of 2022-2023. Kyiv Mayor Vitalii Klitschko said that as a result of falling drone debris, an apartment on the fourth floor of a five-story residential building caught fire in the Pechersk neighborhood of the city. One person was hospitalized as a result of the attack, while one other person received medical treatment on-site. Debris was also reported in the Holosiivskyi and Dniprovskyi districts of the capital, according to the Kyiv City Military Administration. Several residential and commercial buildings, a club building, and a library were damaged in the capital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A 45-year-old woman was injured in Kyiv Oblast, suffering a head wound, Governor Ruslan Kravchenko reported. Fallen debris damaged industrial facilities, 21 houses, and other buildings across the region. In addition to the attack on Kyiv, at least two people were killed and seven injured, including two children, in the city of Mykolaiv amid Russias mass drone and missile attack, regional governor Vitalii Kim reported. In the city of Dnipro, a 42-year-old man suffered shrapnel wounds as a result of the attack. High-rise buildings, an educational institution, and a car were damaged, Governor Serhii Lysak reported. Russia also struck a railway depot in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, killing two railway workers and injuring three, Ukrainian Railways (Ukrzaliznytsia) said on its Telegram channel. It is not immediately clear whether the number of injured includes the 42-year-old man reported previously by the governor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Critical infrastructure facilities were hit in the Vinnytsia, Odesa, and Volyn oblasts, leading to power outages and emergency shutdowns, regional authorities said. Odesa also faced problems with the water supply. Infrastructure facilities were also targeted in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Two people were reported injured in the regional center, the city of Zaporizhzhia. A 59-year-old man was hospitalized, and an 18-year-old man received medical assistance on the spot, Governor Ivan Fedorov said. In Lviv Oblast, 12 garages caught fire due to fallen missile debris. A 66-year-old woman was killed in her car by the debris in the Sheptytskyi (formerly Chervonohrad) district, Governor Maksym Kozytskyi reported. Two more people were injured. Two people were killed, and a 17-year-old boy was injured in Odesa Oblast, Governor Oleh Kiper reported. One civilian was reportedly hospitalized with serious injuries in Poltava Oblast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An outbuilding and a house were damaged in Zhytomyr Oblast. Regional authorities also reported that a critical infrastructure site was damaged in Rivne Oblast, and a house was damaged by fallen debris in Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast. "Cruise, ballistic, and air-launched ballistic missiles, Zirkons, Iskanders, Kinzhals. In total, around 120 missiles and 90 drones (were launched by Russia)," President Volodymyr Zelensky said following the attack. This makes it one of the most massive strikes launched at Ukraine throughout the full-scale war. "Our air defenses destroyed more than 140 aerial targets... We are grateful to our air defense forces involved in the attack, our aviation F-16, Sukhoi, and MiG pilots mobile fire groups, electronic warfare units, everybody worked in an organized manner," Zelensky said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response to the mass attack, the Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces scrambled fighter jets to protect the country's own airspace. "Ground-based air defense and radar reconnaissance systems have reached the highest state of readiness," the Operational Command added. Ukraine's Air Force issued air raid alerts across all regions of the country around 6 a.m. local time, warning of the attack. The alert ended in much of Ukraine at around 9:30 a.m. Ukraine's Air Force reported earlier in the night that Tu-95 strategic bombers took off from the Russian airfields of Olenya in Murmansk Oblast. Later in the night, the War Monitor Telegram channel reported that a total of 17 Tu-95 strategic bombers were in flight, with seven taking off at the Engels airbase in Saratov Oblast. In recent months, Russia has primarily focused on large-scale drone attacks to overwhelm Ukrainian air defenses in cities across the country. The Ukrainian Air Force previously said that Russia launched at least 4,300 Shahed-type attack drones and similar UAVs imitating Shaheds against Ukraine between August and October 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While missile attacks are a common occurrence in Ukraine's eastern oblasts, most Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, have largely been spared from large-scale Russian missile attacks on infrastructure in recent months with the last large-scale missile attack occurring in late August. Read also: Russia attacks thermal power plants, dealing serious damage, operator says EU has 'convincing' evidence of reported Chinese attack drone production for Russia, media reports The EU's top diplomat Josep Borrell reportedly informed European nations of "convincing" evidence of Chinese production "of lethal aid" to Russia, ahead of an upcoming meeting of EU foreign ministers, the German media outlet Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ) reported on Nov. 15, citing three EU officials. The lethal aid in question reportedly refers to a Chinese firm's role in attack drone production for Russia in its war against Ukraine. Reuters reported on Sept. 25 citing European intelligence sources that Russia has secretly established a development and production program in China for attack drones to be used in the war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have had reports from intelligence sources on the existence of a factory inside China producing drones which are shipped to Russia," a senior EU official told Politico on Nov. 15. The official told Politico that the EU has yet to determine whether Beijing is aware of the firm's drone production. China's foreign ministry has previously denied knowledge of the project. In a separate comment to FAZ, a EU diplomat acknowledged that while there is not any direct evidence to implicate Beijing in the drone production, the official said it was difficult "to imagine that something like this would happen and the Chinese government wouldn't know anything about it at all." China has positioned itself as neutral in the Russia-Ukraine war but has simultaneously deepened economic ties with Moscow and backed the country against Western sanctions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beijing has also emerged as one of Russia's leading sources of dual-use goods that feed the Russian defense industry. In an interview with ABC News aired on Sept. 24., President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia is using Chinese satellites to take pictures of Ukraine's nuclear facilities for possible future attacks. Although it is unclear what concrete steps the EU will take in response to the reported drone production, implementing additional sanctions may be on the table for the European bloc including adding more Chinese companies to a list of firms facing EU sanctions, an EU diplomat told Politico. U.S. President Joe Biden is also expected to discuss China's support for Russia on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in Peru on Nov. 16. According to the White House, Biden is expected to voice his "deep concern" regarding China's "support for Russia's war against Ukraine." Read also: Biden meets Xi, condemns North Korean troops dispatch to Russia Russia producing thermobaric drones, capable of causing 'terrifying' civilian harm, AP reports Russia recently began producing thermobaric drones to be used alongside decoy drones in Ukraine, which are capable of causing severe damage to civilians, an investigation by the Associated Press (AP) revealed on Nov. 16. While thermobaric warheads have reportedly been previously used by Russia in Ukraine on missiles, their use on attack drones would mark an escalation of the warhead's use. Thermobaric warheads create a wave of high pressure and heat that is capable of penetrating thick walls, AP reported. The damage caused by thermobaric attack drones would cause damage that would be "simply terrifying" for civilian populations to endure, including collapsed lungs, crushed eyeballs, and brain damage, according to a source familiar with Russian drone production. While controversial, thermobaric munitions are not prohibited under international law. According to the AP investigation, the thermobaric weapons would be deployed alongside decoy drones meant to overwhelm Ukrainian air defenses. Decoy drones have been regularly used in recent months as Russia has increased its drone attack on Ukrainian cities since the beginning of September. The Ukrainian Air Force previously said that Russia launched at least 4,300 Shahed-type attack drones and similar UAVs imitating Shaheds against Ukraine between August and October 2024. The Russian production of thermobaric drones, codenamed Operation False Target, is currently in production in Russias Alabuga Special Economic Zone in the country's Tatarstan Republic. Russia continues to use drones to overwhelm Ukrainian cities ahead of expected attacks on Ukrainian energy facilities ahead of the winter months. The use of thermobaric drones would likely be used primarily to penetrate thick walls and underground energy substation, ideal for targeting energy facilities. In recent months, Iran and China have continued to supply components for Russian attack drones. Reuters reported on Sept. 25 citing European intelligence sources that Russia has secretly established a development and production program in China for attack drones to be used in the war in Ukraine. While Iran has continuously produced Shahed-type drones for Russia's use in Ukraine since the start of the full-scale war. The EU's top diplomat Josep Borrell reportedly informed European nations of "convincing" evidence of Chinese production "of lethal aid" to Russia, ahead of an upcoming meeting of EU foreign ministers on Nov. 18, the German media outlet Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ) reported, citing three EU officials. China has positioned itself as neutral in the Russia-Ukraine war but has simultaneously deepened economic ties with Moscow and backed the country against Western sanctions. Beijing has also emerged as one of Russia's leading sources of dual-use goods that feed the Russian defense industry. Read also: Russia shows it has no intention of ceasing its aggression Kyivs partners condemn Russian mass attack Ukrainian partisans say they sabotaged railway in occupied Zaporizhzhia Oblast The Atesh partisan group sabotaged a key railway in occupied Zaporizhzhia Oblast, disabling electrical equipment and causing disruptions to Russia's military supply chain, the group claimed on Nov. 16. An Atesh operative burned a relay cabinet near the Russian-occupied city of Tokmak, the partisans said, publishing purported footage of the sabotage without specifying the date. The Kyiv Independent could not verify the claims. According to the group, the sabotage occurred between two rail stations in occupied Tokmak. 0:00/0:151Purported footage of a sabotage of a railway cabinet relay near the occupied city of Tokmak. Video published on Nov. 16 2024. (Atesh/Telegram) "Russian forces are intensifying their offensive in the Zaporizhzhia direction. This makes sabotage operations a serious problem for them, complicating logistics and disrupting the regular supply of ammunition and fuel," the group said on Telegram. "These interruptions gradually undermine the combat effectiveness of Russian troops, slow their offensive actions, and increase losses, ultimately reducing their chances of achieving their objectives," the group added. In early October, Russian troops reportedly renewed their attack in the Zaporizhzhia sector. Kyiv warned of a potential Russian push in the southern region, just as Moscow's troops continue advancing in Ukraine's east. Amid increased attacks in the region, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian military's Southern Command, told the news outlet Suspilne on Nov. 12 that the Russian army is deploying trained assault groups to frontline positions in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. The Atesh movement regularly commits sabotage attacks in both occupied areas of Ukraine and inside Russia itself. On at least two different occasions, the saboteurs have previously claimed to attack rail lines inside Russia, targeting North Korean ammunition transported throughout the country. Read also: Ukraine destroys $10 million Russian Buk air-defense system, Interior Ministry says Russian defense plant over 1,300 km from Urkaine reportedly hit by drone strike A drone strike damaged a factory on Nov. 17 in the Russian city of Izhevsk, more than 1,300 kilometers (800 miles) from the Ukrainian border, according to Alexander Brechalov, head of Russia's Udmurt Republic. The factory produces air defense systems, radars, and other equipment for the Russian military, said Andrii Kovalenko, the head of the counter-disinformation department at Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council. "Uknown drones attacked the Izhevsk Electromechanical Plant Kupol in Russia. There, Russia produces the Tor air defense systems, as well as radars and other components," Kovalenko wrote on his Telegram channel. Brechalov reported an explosion and a "drone crash" at an unnamed "factory workshop" on the city's Lenina Street. One person was injured, and the crash damaged the facility's windows, the official claimed, adding that there "was no serious damage." Citing local residents, the Russian Telegram channel Astra also reported that the 300th production unit of the Kupol defense plant, standing at the intersection of Lenina and 40 Let Pobedy streets, was targeted. The claims could not be independently verified. Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR) says it cannot provide any information at the moment in response to the Kyiv Independent's request for comment. Izhevsk is the regional center of the Udmurt Republic, lying in central Russia west of the Ural Mountains. This would mark the first drone attack against the region during the entire war. Throughout the full-scale invasion, Ukraine has carried out a number of long-range strikes deep inside Russian territory, primarily targeting the country's oil and defense industries. Read also: EU preparing additional sanctions against Iran over missile shipments to Russia Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Editor's note: The article was updated with the latest statement by President Volodymyr Zelensky. Ukrainian air defenses shot down 102 of the 120 missiles and 42 of the 90 drones launched by Russia overnight on Nov. 17, the Air Force reported. Russian forces launched one of the heaviest aerial strikes against the country throughout the full-scale war, primarily targeting the energy grid. During the attack, Russia deployed seven Tu-160, 16 Tu-95MS, and two Tu-22M3 bomber planes, five Su-34 fighter-bombers, four Su-27 fighter jets, 10 MiG-31K Kinzhal missile carriers, and four naval missile carriers, according to the Air Force. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia reportedly attacked Ukraine with a hypersonic 3M22 Zirkon missile, eight air-launched Kinzhal missiles, 101 Kh-101 and Kalibr cruise missiles, one Iskander-M ballistic missile, four Kh-22/31P missiles, five Kh-59/69 aerial guided missiles, and 90 drones. The country's air defenses shot down the Zirkon missile, seven Kinzhal missiles, 85 Kh-101 and Kalibr missiles, and all the Kh-22/31P and Kh-59/69 missiles, as well as 42 drones, according to the Air Force. Forty-one drones were lost across Ukraine thanks to "active countermeasures," while two flew back to Russia and occupied territories, according to the statement. Air defenses were active nearly all of Ukraine's regions: the Kyiv, Cherkasy, Kirovohrad, Chernihiv, Sumy, Kharkiv, Poltava, Odesa, Mykolaiv, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipropetrovsk, Zhytomyr, Vinnytsia, Khmelnytskyi, Ternopil, Ivano-Frankivsk, Rivne, Volyn and Lviv oblasts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are grateful to our air defense forces involved in the attack, our aviation F-16, Sukhoi, and MiG pilots mobile fire groups, electronic warfare units, everybody worked in an organized manner," President Volodymyr Zelensky said. Ukraine's F-16 fighter jets shot down close to 10 aerial targets on Nov. 17, the president added. At least seven civilians were killed and at least 19 injured across multiple regions, according to preliminary data. Read also: What we know about hypersonic Zircon missiles Russias latest threat Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Oleksii Makeiev, Ukraine's Ambassador to Germany, has described the Russian opposition's anti-war march in Berlin as a public relations stunt. Source: Spiegel, as reported by European Pravda Details: On Sunday, more than two and a half years after Russia attacked Ukraine, there will be an anti-war march in Berlin. Leading Russian opposition figures in exile, including Yulia Navalnaya (the wife of the late Alexei Navalny), Ilya Yashin, and Vladimir Kara-Murza, have organised the march. Kremlin critics are currently hoping to re-energise the splintered Russian opposition in exile. The demonstration is conducted under the banner "No to Putin! No to war in Ukraine! Freedom for political prisoners!" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Participants urge the removal of Russian soldiers from Ukraine, the impeachment of Russian President Vladimir Putin, and his prosecution as a war criminal. The action's objective is "to unite all those who oppose the aggressive and criminal policy of Vladimir Putin against the war in Ukraine and against political repression inside Russia." According to the organisers, the march will begin in Henrietta Hertz Park and proceed up Friedrichstrasse to the Russian Embassy on Unter den Linden. About 3,000 demonstrators are anticipated. The Ukrainian ambassador criticised the anti-Putin demonstration. Oleksii Makeiev, Ukraine's Ambassador to Germany since October 2022, described the planned gathering as "a November walk that is both unworthy and insignificant." He asserts that the rally is a "PR action, the target group of which is not the Russian population, but the German media and politicians." That's "a creative application by an unnecessary non-governmental organisation for funding from the federal government and the EU." Makeiev claims that the struggle is not against the Russian regime, but rather for Germany's attention. According to the envoy, the Russians gave the Ukrainians the authority to choose who the "good Russians" are. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yulia Navalnaya said on the day of the scheduled gathering that she hoped to demonstrate "that many Russians are against Putin and against war." According to her, the enormous number of participants will demonstrate that there is "another Russia, not militaristic, but free." In an interview with the Russian exile TV channel Dozhd, she also stated that the opposition has "no plan" for ending Putin's 24-year dominance. Germany, home to over 250,000 people, has the EU's largest Russian emigrant group. Berlin is regarded as the primary shelter for politically oppressed Russians. According to European Pravda, at the Web Summit 2024 conference in Lisbon, Ukrainian activists turned on an air-raid warning signal and chanted "Stop Russia" during Yulia Navalnaya's address. The conference organisers invited her as "a powerful voice for democracy and human rights." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yulia Navalnaya proclaimed her political ambitions in Russia following her husband's murder in a Russian colony earlier this year, and she began engaging with foreign leaders. Support UP or become our patron! In response to concerns raised by British MPs regarding the imprisonment of former Pakistan PM Imran Khan, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy in a letter to a Labour MP issued a detailed statement, saying there is "no indication" that Khan will be tried in military courts, Dawn reported. According to Dawn, the letter was made public by Syed Zulfi Bukhari of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaaf (PTI), who hailed the development and told Dawn that Lammy's response signalled the UK government's values that "any valid democracy cannot have military courts". As per Dawn, the one-page letter was dated November 11 in which the foreign secretary addressed Labour MP Kim Johnson of Liverpool Riverside, saying, "While Pakistan's judicial processes are a domestic matter, we have been very clear that the Pakistani authorities need to act in line with their international obligations and with respect for fundamental freedoms, including the right to a fair trial, due process and humane detention". Lammy added, "This applies to Imran Khan as it does to all Pakistan's citizens." He also expressed concern over restrictions on freedoms in Pakistan and emphasised the importance of democratic principles and the rule of law. According to Dawn, the UK continues to engage at senior levels with the Pakistan government on such critical matters. The development comes as a major victory for the PTI, which has been intensifying efforts in recent months to bring attention to Mr Khan's incarceration through coverage in major international publications as well as in discussions with British parliamentarians, Dawn reported. A group of 20 MPs from across party lines had recently urged Lammy to push for the release of Khan, calling his detention "politically motivated". The MPs had expressed fears that Khan might face trial in military courts, labelling such a move as an "unlawful escalation". Dawn noted that Lammy addressed these concerns in his letter, and stated, "I have raised concerns about the potential use of military courts to try civilians, including Imran Khan. Such courts can lack transparency and independent scrutiny, making it difficult to assess compliance with international standards. We have no recent indications from the Pakistani authorities that they intend to try Imran Khan in a military court, but my officials continue to monitor the situation closely." Beyond judicial concerns, Lammy also brought to attention the issues regarding civil liberties and democratic values in Pakistan. "In our engagements with the authorities, we continue to underline that the freedom to hold and express views without censorship, intimidation, or unnecessary restriction is a cornerstone of democracy," he said. The letter also referenced the ongoing discussions between UK and Pakistani officials. Dawn reported that the UK's foreign secretary noted that the UK minister responsible for Pakistan, Minister Falconer, had emphasised the importance of political rights and civil liberties in conversations with Pakistan's Human Rights Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar. Lammy also made note of the recent constitutional amendments passed by Pakistan's parliament and underscored the importance of an independent judiciary to maintain democratic balance. "While any amendment to Pakistan's constitution is a matter for Pakistan, we have been clear that an independent judiciary, able to check and balance other state organs, is critical to a functioning democracy," he noted. Speaking to Dawn, both serving and retired diplomats said the UK government's response is likely to be closely watched in Pakistan, as questions about judicial independence, civil liberties and political fairness have come under the spotlight. (ANI) Servicemen of Ukraines State Border Guard Service repelled the assault of Russian forces in the vicinity of Vovchansk, Kharkiv Oblast. Source: Ukraines State Border Service Details: With two infantry detachments, the Russians attempted to storm the position held by the Kramatorsk Border Guard Detachment on the Vovchansk front. Before the assault, the weather began to deteriorate, and snow fell. The Russian forces prepared their advance with massive 120-mm mortars. Then they began an assault from the front and left flank, with two infantry fighting vehicles providing fire support. pic.twitter.com/Q7Q6CiMtcd (@ukrpravda_news) November 17, 2024 The State Border Service soldiers engaged in a two-hour battle. After half of the assailants were killed, the border guards suggested that the Russian soldiers surrender and save their lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the border guards, the Ukrainian forces destroyed two Russian infantry fighting vehicles with the aid of aerial reconnaissance and brothers-in-arms from neighbouring positions. Only two captured Russians remained alive, while the rest 12 soldiers lay dead on the fresh snow that covered Kharkiv Oblast. Support UP or become our patron! Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has stressed that Russia's latest large-scale missile attack on Ukraine is war criminal Vladimir Putin's response to those who have called or visited him recently. Source: Sybiha on X (Twitter), as reported by European Pravda Details: The minister stressed the need for "peace through strength" rather than appeasement of the aggressor. "Russia launched one of the largest air attacks: drones and missiles against peaceful cities, sleeping civilians, critical infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is war criminal Putins true response to all those who called and visited him recently. We need peace through strength, not appeasement," Sybiha said. Russia launched one of the largest air attacks: drones and missiles against peaceful cities, sleeping civilians, critical infrastructure. This is war criminal Putins true response to all those who called and visited him recently. We need peace through strength, not appeasement. Andrii Sybiha (@andrii_sybiha) November 17, 2024 Background: On the afternoon of 15 November, it was reported that Scholz had spoken to Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin for the first time in two years. At the time, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy labelled the call a "Pandora's box". Jurgen Hardt, a member of the Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU), believes that Putin will see Scholz's move as "a sign of weakness, not strength". At the same time, Matthias Miersch, Secretary General of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD), spoke in defence of the chancellor's decision. Support UP or become our patron! By Andriy Perun and Dan Peleschuk LVIV, Ukraine (Reuters) - When Russia poured troops into Ukraine nearly three years ago, Yaroslav Simkiv expected a global backlash that would force it to quickly end its full-scale invasion. Since then, the greying trumpeter has provided the aching soundtrack to hundreds of military funeral processions as they have streamed through the cobblestone streets of Lviv. "They can agree on an armistice and all that, but then everything will be left to our children and grandchildren," said Simkiv, echoing a widespread belief in Ukraine that Russia will continue pressing the country for years to come. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His grim task in the Western Ukrainian city is a symbol of the war's devastating toll as fighting approaches the 1,000-day mark, killing troops at the front, sapping precious resources and exhausting the population. Despite an initial surge in support from Kyiv's allies and early gains by its military, Ukraine has lately been unable to halt Russia's grinding advance across the sprawling front line. Kremlin troops are currently making their fastest gains in at least a year, capturing village after village in a bid to seize the entire industrialised Donbas region. Tens of thousands of troops have died in a tragedy that has touched families in every corner of Ukraine and made military funerals in major cities and far-flung villages commonplace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Lviv, a bastion of national consciousness whose residents view their city as Ukraine's cultural capital, the military cemetery has ballooned to include more than 570 new graves since February 2022. "This is the destruction of the Ukrainian nation," said Henadii Derevyanchuk, 67, during a recent visit. The city is an historic centre of resistance to Russian rule and prides itself on its physical and cultural proximity to Europe as Kyiv seeks membership of the European Union. Whenever processions pass through its Old Town, the sombre sounds of Simkiv's trumpet bounce between charming Austro-Hungarian buildings as passersby stop to kneel in a show of respect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His original duty as a city trumpeter, for which he dons a bright red uniform with golden epaulettes, was to ring in midday. AN END IN SIGHT? Like many Ukrainians, Simkiv believes security guarantees for Ukraine, in the form of NATO membership, would be the only effective way to end Russian ambitions. But the prospect of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump cutting crucial military aid and seeking swift talks with Russia has also piled pressure on Kyiv. Some, like sales manger Olena Hurska, whose husband was killed in the war, believe it is time to consider ending the war through negotiations. Ukrainian officials have so far insisted on a full Russian troop withdrawal and a return to the country's 1991 borders before sitting for talks with Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But 32% of Ukrainians are ready to accept territorial concessions in exchange for peace, according to a recent poll by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology - up from 14% a year ago. "A Ukraine without Ukrainians is no longer Ukraine," said Hurska. "So it seems to me that it's worthwhile to... compromise on something, even if it means losing territory." (Reporting by Andriy Perun; Additional reporting and writing by Dan Peleschuk; Editing by Peter Graff) President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that on 17 November, F-16 pilots shot down "about 10" Russian air targets, but did not disclose the actual number. Source: Zelenskyy on Twitter (X) Quote: "Efforts to address the consequences of the combined attack on our infrastructure in the Rivne, Lviv, Dnipropetrovsk, Volyn, and Odesa regions are ongoing. Russian terrorists are once again trying to intimidate us with cold and blackouts, repeating their actions and trying to get results from them. The entire world sees and knows that we are defending ourselves against absolute evil, which understands no language but force. We need unity, the world needs unity. Only together can we stop this evil." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: According to Zelenskyy, during the last week Russian forces used almost 140 missiles of various types, more than 900 guided aerial bombs and more than 600 attack drones. Background: On the night of 16-17 November, Russian forces launched a combined missile and drone attack on Ukraine's energy sector facilities with 210 missiles and UAVs on the night of 16-17 November. Ukrainian air defence units have destroyed 144 of them. Support UP or become our patron! Oleksandr Pivnenko, Commander of the National Guard of Ukraine (NGU), has shared a photo showcasing the first 155-mm DITA self-propelled artillery systems delivered to NGU artillery units from the Netherlands. Source: Pivnenko on Telegram; Defense Express, a Ukrainian military news outlet Details: This marks the first reported delivery of DITA artillery systems to Ukraine's defence forces. The DITA systems were delivered just nine months after being ordered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For reference: DITA systems boast advanced automation and an unmanned turret, enabling a crew size of just two. They have a firing range of up to 39 km, a rate of fire of five rounds per minute in a constant mode, and can leave a firing position in 45 seconds. Background: In February 2024, the Netherlands announced the procurement of the first batch of nine DITA self-propelled artillery systems for Ukraine, produced by the Czech defence company Excalibur Army. Support UP or become our patron! Ukraines nuclear power plants reduced their electricity production as a precautionary measure due to large-scale missile strikes targeting the countrys energy infrastructure, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Mariano Grossi said in a statement on Nov. 17. The attacks on Ukraines infrastructure led to increased nuclear safety and security risks, Grossi said. While the Khmelnytskyi, Rivne, and South Ukrainian plants remained operational and avoided direct hits, several substations critical to their power supply were damaged. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grossi emphasized the vulnerability of Ukraines energy network and reiterated the importance of securing a reliable external power supply to nuclear facilities, a key IAEA safety principle. Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone attack on Ukraine overnight on Nov. 17, leaving at least seven civilians dead and at least 19 injured across multiple regions. Russia targeted "power generation and transmission facilities throughout Ukraine," according to Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko. Officials have been warning that Russia may resume strikes on the energy grid as temperatures drop, mirroring the strategy used in the spring and summer of this year and in the autumn-winter season of 2022-2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Ukraine, US to partner on developing small modular nuclear reactors for reconstruction Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The Atesh partisan group sabotaged a key railway in occupied Zaporizhzhia Oblast, disabling electrical equipment and causing disruptions to Russia's military supply chain, the group claimed on Nov. 16. An Atesh operative burned a relay cabinet near the Russian-occupied city of Tokmak, the partisans said, publishing purported footage of the sabotage without specifying the date. The Kyiv Independent could not verify the claims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the group, the sabotage occurred between two rail stations in occupied Tokmak. 0:00 / 1 "Russian forces are intensifying their offensive in the Zaporizhzhia direction. This makes sabotage operations a serious problem for them, complicating logistics and disrupting the regular supply of ammunition and fuel," the group said on Telegram. "These interruptions gradually undermine the combat effectiveness of Russian troops, slow their offensive actions, and increase losses, ultimately reducing their chances of achieving their objectives," the group added. In early October, Russian troops reportedly renewed their attack in the Zaporizhzhia sector. Kyiv warned of a potential Russian push in the southern region, just as Moscow's troops continue advancing in Ukraine's east. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amid increased attacks in the region, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian military's Southern Command, told the news outlet Suspilne on Nov. 12 that the Russian army is deploying trained assault groups to frontline positions in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. The Atesh movement regularly commits sabotage attacks in both occupied areas of Ukraine and inside Russia itself. On at least two different occasions, the saboteurs have previously claimed to attack rail lines insides Russia, targeting North Korean ammunition transporting throughout the country. Read also: Russia producing thermobaric drones, capable of causing terrifying civilian harm, AP reports Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. UN peacekeeping troops in southern Lebanon have once again come under fire amid the escalating fighting between Israeli forces and Iranian-backed Hezbollah militants. A UNIFIL patrol involving French and Finnish peacekeepers was in the village of Maarakeh on Saturday when it was fired at from behind about 40 times. A statement from the mission said the attack likely came from "non-state actor members" and that the patrol safely made it back to base. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Although some patrol vehicles had bullet impacts, there was no injury to the peacekeepers," the UN Interim Force in Lebanon said on Sunday. "It is unacceptable that UNIFIL peacekeepers, while conducting Security Council-mandated tasks, are routinely targeted. Yesterdays incident serves as yet another stark reminder about the dangerous situation under which the peacekeepers operate daily in south Lebanon," the statement said. In recent weeks, peacekeeping troops have repeatedly found themselves caught in the crossfire during clashes between Israel and Hezbollah. Chinese leader Xi Jinping has pledged to continue cooperation with President-elect Donald Trump following his final meeting with current U.S. President Joe Biden, Azernews reports. The two leaders met on Saturday during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Peru, where they acknowledged the ups and downs of U.S.-China relations during Bidens four years in office. However, both emphasized the progress made in lowering tensions on key issues such as trade and Taiwan. Experts warn that U.S.-China relations could become more volatile with Trumps return to office in two months, particularly due to his promise to impose 60% tariffs on all Chinese imports. Trump's administration also saw the appointment of several prominent China hawks to top foreign and defense positions, raising concerns in Beijing. In his meeting, Xi Jinping reaffirmed Chinas commitment to a stable relationship with the U.S., stating that Beijing is ready to work with the new administration to maintain communication, expand cooperation, and manage differences. Biden, for his part, emphasized that strategic competition between the two global powers should not escalate into conflict. "Our two countries cannot let any of this competition veer into war," Biden said, highlighting the importance of managing tensions responsibly, as they had done during his presidency. Despite several flare-ups, including the spy balloon incident and Chinese military exercises around Taiwan, Bidens administration aimed to responsibly manage the rivalry with China while continuing some of Trumps hardline policies, such as maintaining tariffs. The Biden White House also bolstered defense alliances across the Asia-Pacific region to counter Chinas growing assertiveness. As Trump prepares to assume office again, analysts note that Beijing is likely concerned about his unpredictable foreign policy approach and his plans for economic retaliation. Bonnie Glaser, from the German Marshall Fund, suggested that China would be eager to engage early with Trumps team, but wary of the potential for harsher tariffs and a lack of reliable back channels to influence his policies. The meeting between Xi and Biden marked the latest in a series of candid discussions between the two leaders. Despite disagreements, the two sides have managed to reach agreements on issues like climate change and narcotics. However, Chinas claim to Taiwan remains a significant point of tension, with Beijing warning against U.S. support for the islands sovereignty. As Trumps presidency looms, the future of U.S.-China relations remains uncertain, with both sides preparing for a period of heightened strategic competition. Rampant youth unemployment in China has left millions of young people struggling, staying at home, depending on delivery gigs, or increasingly engaging in the growing trend of "pretending to go to work." According to a Radio Free Asia report, on the video-sharing platform Douyin, young people are developing routines where none exist, spending their days studying or job hunting in libraries and internet cafes. Some are even paying for "study rooms" to escape the house and bring structure to their daily lives, often while preparing for the highly competitive civil service exams, according to state media reports. The situation has given rise to a hashtag on social media, #IPretendedToGoToWorkToday, with young people sharing short videos on Douyin about how they spend their day. In one video under the hashtag, a young woman gives a tour of her hometown, showing the railway station, local shopping streets, and scenic spots, while masking her face with a computer-generated animation. The report further stated that in another video, a young woman is seen relaxing on the stairwell and rooftop of her apartment building, seemingly avoiding relatives and neighbours who believe she is at work. A November 5 feature in Banyuetan magazine, published under the state news agency Xinhua, revealed that it is very common for people up to the age of 40 in rural areas to still live with their parents, who often provide financial support from their pensions. The report noted that this situation contradicts the Communist Party's promise to "comprehensively revitalize rural areas". In response to the article, YouTube commentator Lying Uncle Ping stated, "This reliance on parents is ultimately an issue of employment or job security. The solution is to create more job opportunities and higher-quality employment". He pointed out that at least rural families with land have a means of supporting themselves if they face financial difficulties. However, a former resident of rural Hebei, who only provided the surname Wang for fear of retaliation, noted that not everyone in rural areas still has access to land. "In the more developed southern regions, people can return home and work in local factories," Wang explained. "But in the north, where I live, there are hardly any factories in rural areas, so farming remains the only option". In recent decades, much of the agricultural land in certain areas has been repurposed for development, leaving many struggling. Wang explained that in central regions, some households now have less than one Mu (about 1/15th of a hectare) of land, making it impossible to sustain even a basic living from farming. A young man from a rural village in Guangdong, who went by the pseudonym "Marginal Person," shared with Radio Free Asia that many young people are relying on their parents because of the poor local economy. When asked about their activities, he mentioned that they are mainly working as food delivery drivers, growing vegetables, and trying their luck with the lottery. He explained that the lottery offers several different games, with odds ranging from 1 in 9,500 to 1 in 95. While some have won substantial amounts, using their winnings to buy apartments and get married, others have lost everything. The young man noted that many people feel a sense of shame about their situation. "Food delivery work in my town is mostly done by outsiders, as locals are too embarrassed to be seen and ridiculed by people they know," he added. In a different article, Banyuetan spoke with young people in urban areas who are renting desks in shared study spaces rather than staying at home doing nothing. These rented study areas are especially popular among those preparing for civil service or postgraduate exams. The article mentioned that the market for such spaces is expected to grow to over 10 million by next year. However, the trend is also attracting unemployed young people who rent the desks simply to appear productive and create a space away from their families. Renting a desk offers them a refuge from parental criticism or constant questioning about their job search. The desks can be rented by hour, day, month, or year, with prices averaging around 500 yuan (about $70) per month. Each space typically includes a chair, lamp, charging outlets, and a locker for personal items. The popularity of shared study spaces has grown so much that vacant desks are becoming increasingly difficult to find, especially in high-demand areas, according to the report. In September, China's unemployment rate for young people aged 16 to 24, excluding students, dropped to 17.6 per cent, down from 18.8 per cent the previous month. On October 31, Xi Jinping, leader of the Chinese Communist Party, published an article in Qiushi, a party magazine, emphasizing the need for "full, high-quality employment" to enhance the well-being, happiness, and security of workers. However, the article did not provide specific measures to achieve this. It did, however, underscore youth unemployment as a key concern. Xi stated that the employment of young people, especially college graduates, should be prioritized. He also called for measures to support the employment of migrant workers and to assist groups facing hardship, such as the long-term unemployed. Xi further stressed the importance of eliminating employment discrimination and ensuring the payment of owed wages. Political analyst Ji Feng suggested that the government is deeply concerned that high unemployment could spark social unrest. "People are feeling increasingly aggrieved after the economic downturn," Ji explained. "The Communist Party is worried about this growing discontent and the potential for social instability". However, Xi also cautioned that if the government doesn't implement significant reforms, it risks alienating both domestic private businesses and foreign investors. "If they don't make a drastic shift in policy, they will face serious consequences," he warned. Financial commentator He Jiangbing also criticized the economic policies under Xi Jinping. He pointed out that private companies are the primary employers but are struggling to meet the demand for jobs, as state-owned enterprises are unable to address the employment issue. He called for a revival of stronger trade relations and a return to the export-driven economic model that was in place before the pandemic. He Jiangbing argued, "If a company can't engage in exports, it won't be able to create new jobs; instead, it will start laying off workers." He added, "In this scenario, all the talk about employment is just empty rhetoric." Germany-based social media influencer Great Firewall Frog claimed that Xi's policies have drained the vitality of the Chinese economy. "It's Xi Jinping himself who's the problem, the reason the Chinese economy is ruined and the labour market is depressed," he said. "There's no freedom or vitality these days ... when a single official document can destroy an entire industry, a wrong word on WeChat can get a person fired or imprisoned." "How can he say stuff like 'promoting high-quality, full employment'? It's hilarious," he said. "Dude, the guy should do stand-up", the influencer noted. (ANI) LAS VEGAS (KLAS) UNLV held the annual Summit on Nevada Education on Saturday where educators from across the state gathered at the universitys student union to collaborate and tackle challenges Nevadas school systems are facing. While its hosted in Las Vegas, UNLV College of Education. Dean Danica Hays said the Summit on Nevada Education focuses on all of Nevada. Our state is geographically really huge and we have students in urban, rural, suburban and an indigenous spaces, Hays said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The theme of the 2024 summit was Preparing to Succeed. From K-12 education to workforce development and beyond, Hays said its all part of the spectrum of education. We really see that connection between early childhood education to the adult learner whos coming back maybe later in life to switch careers or to upskill for their job, she said. Educators from all those spaces worked together at the summit to find ways to approach mental health in their schools, expand the opportunities students have and improve education for people behind bars. I really see education as this this village metaphor that were all in this together. Whether you even think youre related to education, you are. Because without education and this investment in education, there is no future workforce, there is no future Nevada economy, Hays said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its the 10th year of the summit. Educators who have gone year in and year out are looked to the past to continue building the future. Thats involving real conversations with our industries, with our schools, our mental health agencies about what do you need in the future workforce and making sure that were adapting our curriculum to that, Hays said. The summit also featured the first inductions into the UNLV College of Education Hall of Fame. Officials, groups and educators who have made lasting impacts to Nevadas schools were honored. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. Last month, Israel passed a bill banning the UN relief agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) from activity within Israel and, more significantly, cutting all ties between the organisation and the Israeli government. UNRWA are still operating within Gaza, but the IDF, who coordinates the entry of aid into the region, will no longer work with them. Among the organisations that distribute aid, UNRWA was, until now, responsible for 13 per cent of relief, with the UN World Food Programme contributing 50 per cent. The bill follows allegations by the Israeli government earlier this year that 19 UNRWA workers helped perpetrate the Oct 7 massacre and that a further 100 of their employees are members of terrorist groups. In August, an investigation by the UNs own watchdog dismissed nine of those workers. (Muhammad Abu Attawi, a commander in Hamass special operations division and leader of the Nova massacre, has also since been found to have been an UNRWA driver.) Another blot on the organisation came in June when former hostage Ditza Heiman stated in a court testimony that she was held in an UNRWA school teachers home. The ban, however, caused outrage from many, including Keir Starmer who said he was gravely concerned. Other political voices were more supportive, including Robert Jenrick who reiterated that he staunchly opposed the UKs involvement with UNRWA, referring to the 35 million of UK funding the organisation received last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For Israeli mother Ayelet Samerano, 53, the veto was the first positive piece of news she had heard in 13 months. The last Samerano saw of her son was on Oct 7 last year, in a video showing 21-year-old Jonathan lying seemingly lifeless in the middle of a road outside Kibbutz Beeri. A video clip posted by Hamas shows a truck pulling up, two men hauling him from the ground and throwing his limp body into their boot, his shoeless feet shoved against its sides. Despite looking unconscious at the time, and later being told he had been killed, Samerano says she is yet to receive conclusive proof, as no body has ever been found. My fear is doubled, she says of not knowing whether she is fighting for his release or to be reunited with his remains. Its an awful way to live. The clip shows the 21-year-olds limp body being hauled across the ground - Shutterstock In the immediate aftermath of Hamass attack, Samerano was only told the name of the man who had taken her eldest child Faisal Ali Musalam Naami. But in February, during an interview with a reporter, she learnt that he was in fact an UNRWA employee, and that he was driving an agency vehicle. Israeli officials found that Naami, along with 18 other staff, had participated in the Oct 7 attacks (The UNs investigative body said there was insufficient evidence in 10 of the cases). UNRWA has lost legitimacy and can no longer function as a UN body, Israels defence minister said at the time, stating that other agencies would need to step in instead. At the end of October, following the passing of the bill, Oren Marmorstein, a spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Israel, explained: The Hamas terrorist organisation has infiltrated UNRWA in Gaza widely and deeply. Israel remains committed to international law and to ensuring the flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza, through international organisations that are free of terrorist activity. Samerano had never heard of the agency prior to that reporters call, but has since made it her business to understand it. They are teaching children from the moment they are born to hate people, she says. Reports have previously found that in UNRWA-run schools, textbooks described jihad as achieving martyrdom; others did not acknowledge Israel on the world map. Its really sick, she says of Naami. Hes a social worker; a social worker committing terror, and kidnapping a citizen. The employees accused of having Hamas links were dismissed, and funding from the likes of the US briefly paused while investigations were carried out. But Samerano is understandably furious about the global cash flow being resumed. The money is not going to help the Gazan people she says. Its going to [fund] terror. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking out publicly about UNRWA is the latest in what has been more than a year of unbearable tasks for Samerano, who travels the world campaigning for Hamas to release the hostages, hoping it might bring her closer to finding out what happened to Jonathan. Every night I scream in silence. Every morning, I cry on my way to work. Every waking moment, I think about my son, and I live like that through each day, over and over again, she told an audience in Switzerland three months ago, where she had travelled to lobby the chief of UNRWA to put pressure on Hamas to release her son and other hostages. During one protest in Switzerland, she held a photo of Jonathan aloft while shouting UNRWA kidnapped my son! only to have it snatched by an elderly protester, and dumped in the bin. Samerano at a news conference hosted by the Hostages Families Forum - Reuters Its like a bicycle, she tells me of the constant juggernaut of global events; this need to speak her boy into existence while the world seems intent on moving on. When Im doing that, I can keep myself up. When I stop, I will fall. So this is, for me, bringing me a lot of strength that in other ways, maybe I dont have. Samerano says of Jonathan, or Jonty, as he was known to family and friends: He was smiling all the time. He had a special charm. And with this charm, everybody wanted to be with him wherever we arrived, the doors were open and everybody wanted to help him. Samerano becomes emotional recalling what might have been Jonathans final hours. He and his two friends fled the Nova festival immediately when rockets appeared in the skies early that Saturday. They went in search of a bomb shelter, pulling up at Kibbutz Beeri, where they planned to wait out the attacks. But they arrived at the same time as Hamas terrorists, who shot at their car before entering the kibbutz. The terrorists would go on to kill 96 civilians including children, and take a further 26 hostage from the kibbutz. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Samerano and the families of the two other young men saw the news unfolding from Tel Aviv, and called them relentlessly, unable to get through. After four days of anguish, her brother sent her a video posted by Hamas, showing the young men on the ground, and Jonathans abduction. They assumed the UNRWA vehicle used to drive him away had been commandeered by Hamas militants, learning around 100 days later that Naami had been an active participant. Israeli authorities say that of the 251 people taken captive by Hamas last year, more than 60 may still be alive, while the bodies of a further 35 remain in Gaza. Not knowing which grim camp her son falls into has left Samerano in an unimaginable limbo. I dont know for sure if he is alive or dead, she says, the picture of him on the wall beside her the closest she has been to him since she drove him to meet his friends on Oct 6 last year. Every day Im afraid, she admits, voice wavering. If he is alive, will I succeed in bringing him back alive? And if he is not alive, what will happen? Her mind pinballs between each devastating possibility. That there were no reports of bullet wounds or his blood found has led her to imagine that he might still be captive. Or, he is dead and beneath the ground somewhere. Samerano travels the world campaigning for Hamas to release its hostages - Reuters The picture of Jonathan was created by Samerano by a friend of his, the T-shirt bearing a lyric from his favourite song: It was the smile in your eyes. Jonathan was the same, she says. With his smile, he could do everything, his mother says. They spoke up to ten times a day. He told me everything, she says, calling her at midnight wanting to trade thoughts on the latest idea that gripped him. Their relationship was very, very tight. Very. I say that they never cut the cord, she laughs. An event producer, just prior to his capture he had told his mother that he hoped to try and make it in New York. He wanted to do so many things, says Samerano, including launching a brand featuring the limited edition T-shirts he had made for each event. In his absence, she plans to create that line for him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was born creative, she adds; his various schemes lodged in the minds of his many friends. One messaged Samerano on Oct 7 this year, remembering an exploit proposed by her son then 10 to convince his school friends to travel en masse to Eilat, 350km from their home. The gaggle of kids at the Sameranos after school each day asked him if he was crazy, but Jonathan was unbowed, reasoning: Its just one bus line. Those words espoused his philosophy exactly, says Samerano. Everything for him was just one bus line. He made everything he wanted; he wasnt afraid thats why he was so successful. The friend who messaged last month, while travelling in Nepal, felt those words all the more acutely with Jonathan gone, he said. Im taking this philosophy from now on. And Im not afraid of anything; I will do everything. Moments like this provide a rare bit of comfort for Samerano, who has spent the past year rallying for Jonathan, his devastated girlfriend, her husband and younger son. Her friends urge her to take care of herself; to get a massage, or go to the beach, but I cant. I really cant. I cant imagine it, she says. My son is in Gaza, how can I rest? People cannot understand it, but its in your mind twenty four hours [a day]. Its going with you everywhere. These things that are good for the soul, as well-wishers suggest, are ultimately meaningless, she feels. The best thing for my soul now is to bring him back. In June, on Jonathans 22nd birthday, the Sameranos threw him a party the first time that any such celebration had occurred since the attack eight months earlier, she says; before then the grief had proven too overwhelming. Three thousand people showed up. At the beginning it was hard for me, but it was amazing, Samerano reflects. It was the first time after Oct 7 that those people came and danced. For us, it was, wow, [this is] the best thing we could do for Jonathan while hes there. Life before and since has yielded less optimism, with Samerano left only to persist, unaware whether her efforts are in vain: Im hoping for a miracle. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WPRI) A staff member who was hit by a car on the University of Rhode Islands (URI) campus earlier this month has died. The university said in a letter sent to the campus community that Maureen McDermott, director of student involvement and the Memorial Union, died on Friday. BACKGROUND: URI staff member hit by car on campus URI said McDermott started working there in 1981 as a major events coordinator and found her calling in student involvement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maureen served as an advisor to many student organizations, and she was an advocate for all of our more than 100 campus organizations, the university said. Her passion for our students and for their success both here and beyond our campuses provided a foundation for their achievement and served as an inspiration for colleagues. The university said counseling services and resources are available for those in the campus community. NEXT: 2 killed in early morning crash in Narragansett Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Breaking News Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. (The Hill) U.S. health officials confirmed on Saturday the first case of a more severe strain of mpox that infected an individual who recently traveled to Africa. California health authorities identified the first known case of clade I mpox in the U.S. through laboratory testing. The person was treated in San Mateo County, according to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). The individual is at home and recovering. People who had close contact with this individual are being contacted by public health workers, but there is no concern or evidence that mpox clade I is currently spreading between individuals in California or the United States, Californias health department said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case of clade I mpox outbreak started in Central and Eastern Africa. Historically, clade I has caused more severe illness than clade II, however, recent infections from clade I mpox may not be as clinically severe as in previous outbreaks, especially when cases have access to quality medical care, CDPH wrote on Saturday. Mpox is a disease that is caused by infection with a virus. In Africa, people have gotten it from small animal bites. Some of its symptoms include body aches, chills and fever. On Nov. 22, the World Health Organization (WHO) will convene to determine if the outbreak of mpox in Africa still constitutes a public health emergency of international concern. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new strain of mpox is different from the other, clade II, that caused an outbreak in 2022 in nonendemic nations. The WHO declared the recent outbreak of mpox in Africa a global health emergency. The U.S. became the sixth nation outside of Africa to confirm the strain, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Travel-related cases have been detected in India, Germany, Sweden, Thailand and the United Kingdom. The risk of clade I mpox to the general public in the U.S. remains low, CDC wrote. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. DARWIN, Australia The U.S., Australia and Japan agreed to broaden a series of drills and trainings Sunday, the next step in preparing their militaries to work together in crisis. To announce the changes, the three countries top defense official gathered at a base in Darwin, which sits on Australias northern coast and, in a sign of how much their relationship has grown, was once bombed heavily by Japan during the second world war. A group of U.S. Marines have rotated through the site for almost 15 years, and its since become a symbol of Washington and Canberras military ties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those two countries are now expanding the clique to include Japan. Starting next year, Tokyo will send a brigade to train with the Australian and American militaries. The first of these exercises will be Talisman Sabre held farther west in Queensland in 2025, though Japan said it would also play a larger role in other drills building up to a live-fire version of the exercise in 2027. Australia, meanwhile, committed to the same in exercises held in Japan. Because youve got the exercises bilaterally, what youre really doing is accelerating the cooperation between Australian and Japanese forces, said Brad Glosserman, an expert on the Japanese military who advises the Pacific Forum, a think tank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The upshot is that the drills will no longer act as a straight line, connecting two militaries. Theyll now look more like a triangle, helping each country learn each others habits, language and equipment. The teaming could help in the event of a crisis, whether from a natural disaster or conflict with Americas top rival, China. In particular, a U.S. defense official said, Japan and Australia will learn from American Marines on how to fight in littorals. These shallow-water environments resemble Taiwan and the South China Sea, where China has grown more aggressive in recent years. And in the case of Japan and Australia, the exercises will involve two of the regions most powerful and growing militaries. In the last two years each country has pledged to increase defense spending and buy more advanced weapons. The change has been especially stark in Japan, whose pacifist constitution still restricts its armed forces. Partnering U.S. allies in the region in new ways has been a hallmark of the Biden Pentagons approach to the Indo-Pacific. For almost 70 years, the U.S. interacted with other countries like the hub and spokes of a bike wheel: each had a relationship with America, but not each other. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That model is changing as the U.S. and a more threatening China has encouraged such countries to work together. After the reelection of Donald Trump in November, its also a sign of American allies clinging to each other amid uncertainty in Washington. All of this is about trying to insulate them from the potential disruptions of the Trump administration, Glosserman said. Two years ago, Australia and Japan signed a deal that allows their militaries to access each others territory. In 2026, Japan may deploy its advanced F-35 fighters to Australia during exercise Pitch Black, its defense minister said Sunday. And the two are also building weapons together, with Japan interested in the second pillar of AUKUS, a submarine pact between the U.S., U.K. and Australia that includes development of advanced technology. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin is on his last official trip to the Indo-Pacific. While there, hes trying to reassure his counterparts that Washington wont veer from its commitments despite the change in administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In part to make the U.S., Japan and Australia relationship more durable, the three countries agreed to a more formal schedule of meetings for their top defense officials. Its a similar structure to what the U.S. has built with Japan and South Korea, two historic rivals, over the last two years. Theres an enormous strategic benefit in us working more closely together, Richard Marles, Australias deputy prime minister and defense minister, said in a briefing here. Concerning for allies in the region, though, is the chance America doesnt follow what they see as its strategic interest. Trumps nominee to replace Austin is Pete Hegseth, a military veteran and Fox News host with no Washington experience. When asked whether he was confident in Hegseths ability, Marles argued just that. I approach the prospect of getting to know Pete Hegseth and working with him with enormous optimism, he said. A sigh of relief for the family and friends of Matthew Swiger after the woman who pleaded guilty to murdering him was sentenced to 35 years in prison. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Akiyah Price was convicted of shooting and killing the 25-year-old in Jacksonville Beach last year. Matthews family told Action News Jax Shanila Kabir it has been a long 14 months to get to this point. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, they ask everyone to remember Matthew as the kind, loving man he was. Yesterday was the first time in so long Ive actually exhaled. Ive held strong for him for 14 months, said Melissa Barnhill, Matthews mother. However, they said they were frustrated with the sentencing. They said they believe the murder was premeditated, but they are relieved to finally have an answer. Akiya went home and got a gun. She was at home for six minutes and then went out looking for my son. It was a very planned situation, said Melissa. Akiya Price and Matthew Swiger were acquaintances. Jax Beach Police said the shots were fired in the 100 block of 4th Avenue North near the pier. Officers found Matthew at the scene bleeding and later died at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He ran into an apartment complex, which had no exit. He had to turn back around and when he did, he put his hand up. She shot him in the hand, and she shot him in the shoulder. It pierced his lungs which ultimately caused him to die. Matthews brother Jonathan Swiger agrees that Akiya Price should have been charged with first-degree murder. But for now, the family plans to enjoy the holidays in Matthews honor. Before all of this, I considered my life absolutely perfect. I have a good job and home. I had a great family and everything I wanted. Then boom, this happened. The family said they are sponsoring two families this Christmas in honor of Matthew Swiger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Melissa Barnhill reiterates that she believes justice still has not been served. She remains hopeful that investigators will find any crucial evidence that may have slipped through the cracks. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. A vehicle crashed into a house in Pitcairn Saturday evening. Allegheny County dispatchers said emergency crews were called to the 1300 block of Wall Avenue at 4:55 p.m. When firefighters arrived they found that a pole had been sheared and power lines had been knocked onto the ground. An SUV also crashed into a house and sustained heavy damage. Firefighters say the driver was entrapped in the vehicle because the wires were creating an electrical hazard around them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The driver had minor injuries when they were rescued. Firefighters said the driver is expected to be okay. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW In a major development, over 40 American lawmakers have called upon US President Joe Biden to advocate for the immediate release of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, along with all other political prisoners in the country and ensure their safety in line with the findings of the UN Working Group report, Geo TV reported. In a letter to outgoing President Biden, as many as 46 members of Congress urged Biden to take steps and act for the release of the incarcerated PM. The details were shared by Imran Khan's party, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaaf (PTI), American Wing, on the social media platform, X. It noted that "46 members of the US House of Representatives, including members from both the Republican and Democratic parties, have written a letter to President Joe Biden calling for urgent action for the release of Imran Khan". According to the post, the letter was jointly led by Susan Wild and John James. https://x.com/PTIOfficialUSA/status/1857640211913617777 It is significant to note that PTI said that the letter criticised the role of the US Ambassador Donald Blome and his failure to 'incorporate the concerns of the Pakistani American community in its work including meaningfully advocating for the release of political prisoners, the restoration of human rights, or respect for democratic principles'. Geo News reported that Pakistan had denounced the resolution, saying it "stems from an incomplete understanding of the political situation and electoral process in Pakistan". As per Geo News, in their letter to the President, the US lawmakers, while referring to the provision of H. Res. 901, said that the legislation brought together Democrats and Republicans in support of a change in US policy, focusing on escalating human rights violations and erosion of civil liberties in Pakistan in the aftermath of the "flawed" February 2024 elections. "These elections were characterised by widespread irregularities, electoral fraud, and state-led suppression of the country's leading party, PTI, including disenfranchising the party in the leadup to the vote, as well as reversing precinct-level results, which showed an overwhelming victory for PTI-associated independent candidates", Geo TV noted. According to Geo TV, the American Lawmakers also expressed their disappointment over the "use of mass arrests, arbitrary detention, and the implementation of a de facto firewall against social media platforms, with reports of broader efforts to slow internet access speeds". As per Geo TV, the lawmakers said a focal point of their concern is the unlawful detention of former prime minister Imran Khan who has been incarcerated since August last year in multiple cases ranging from corruption to terrorism "widely perceived to be Pakistan's most popular political figure". It was also noted that several activists associated with PTI, including senior party leaders like Yasmin Rashid and Shah Mehmood Qureshi, have been in detention for over a year. In a significant statement, Geo TV noted that the American lawmakers said, "Given these alarming developments, we believe a change of approach at the US Embassy in Islamabad is urgently needed." Last month, as many as 60 members of the US House of Representatives had written a letter to the president, calling on him to use Washington's leverage with Islamabad for the release of Khan, Geo News had earlier reported. The letter becomes significant as it marks the first such collective call from multiple members of the US Congress for the release of Imran Khan Opposition political parties expressed disappointment, stating that "PTI is continuously inviting foreign intervention for the release of PTI founder", PPP opposition leader Sherry Rehman said. The letter written by members of the US Congress was a clear interference in Pakistan's internal affairs, she said, adding that the move was against international norms, Geo TV reported. (ANI) DENVER (KDVR) A vigil was held Saturday night for a 15-year-old who was lynched outside of Limon on Nov. 16, 1900. Preston John Porter Jr. was a Black 15-year-old who worked as a railroad worker in Limon in 1900. Porter Jr. was accused of sexually assaulting and murdering a local white girl, Louise Frost, who was discovered in a ravine with stab wounds by a search party. She later succumbed to those wounds. Her father, R.W. Frost, was a prominent rancher in the area. How Travis Hunter could win the Heisman Trophy Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to History Colorado and the Colorado Encyclopedia, Porter Jr. confessed to the crime to Denver investigators who reportedly used extreme coercion to provoke a confession, including telling the 15-year-old his father and brother would be lynched if he did not confess. There has never been any evidence connecting Porter Jr. to the crime. On Nov. 16, 1900, a mob of 300 white people angry with the crime, abducted Porter Jr. in Limon before chaining him to a vertical steel rail, hanging a rope around his neck and burning him alive, according to the Equal Justice Initiative. This incident occurred amid a year that saw over 100 black people lynched nationwide, according to a study by Bloomberg. The vigil for Porter Jr. was held at the CU Denver College of Architecture and Planning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before the vigil started, an educational program was held alongside a discussion to learn about the history of racial lynching in Colorado and the racial injustice that people still face in 2024. Porter Jr. was honored with a speech by Rev. Dr. Lee Butler and poetry performed by Jovan Mays. The Denver Police Department Chief was also in attendance. Following the pre-vigil events, attendees moved outside to the nearby historical marker placed to remember Porter Jr. Electric votive candles were distributed to those around the marker and a candlelight vigil was held for Porter Jr. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Friends and family are gathering in Vancouver in a vigil for a teenager who went missing two months ago. Tristan Huang, 16, vanished from his home near 2300 112th Court in the early hours of September 14. Investigators said he took an Uber toward the I-205 bridge that morning. The vigil in Wintler Park began at 5:30 p.m. in a steady rain is a show of support for his family. The vigil was put on by Oregons Vanished, a new nonprofit that raises awareness about missing people in Oregon and Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KOIN 6 News will have more information later in the evening. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. CHICAGO The city said goodbye Monday to fallen Chicago Police Department Officer Enrique Martinez, who was shot and killed in the line of duty on the citys South Side earlier this month. After a visitation for Martinez was held Sunday afternoon at Blake-Lamb Funeral Home in south suburban Oak Lawn, his funeral service will take place Monday morning, beginning at 10 a.m., at St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel on Chicagos South Side. That will be followed by interment at Beverly Cemetery in Blue Island. RELATED: Chicagoans gather for vigil at Southwest Side church in honor of slain CPD Officer Enrique Martinez Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gold Star Families Chairwoman Maria Marmolejo attended Sundays visitation and spoke about Martinez, empathizing with his loved ones. That mom will never be able to hug her son again, so remember that. Those friends will never see his face, his fiance will never walk down the aisle with him, Marmolejo said. These families have to go (through) the holiday without their family member. They have to continue their life in some kind of capacity, which will never be the same. Martinez is the second Chicago police officer killed in the line of duty this year and the fifth killed in less than four years. In April, Officer Luis Huesca was shot and killed in Gage Park while returning home from his work shift. Sandra Worthams brother, Thomas, was also a Chicago police officer. He was shot and killed in 2010 by armed men who were trying to steal his motorcycle in Chatham, the same neighborhood where Martinez was shot and killed on Nov. 4. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sandra Wortham told WGN News on Sunday the cycle will only stop when change finally happens. I certainly hope that we will focus (Sunday) and (Monday) on honoring Officer Martinez and his family, and then on Tuesday well get to work, she said. Martinez, 26, was shot and killed while attempting to conduct a traffic stop in Chatham. He worked in CPDs 6th District and wouldve celebrated his third anniversary with the department next month. Chicago police said the fatal shooting happened when officers, including Martinez, conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle with three people inside in the 8000 block of South Ingleside Avenue. The officers had initially responded to a call in the area that turned out to be based on false information, when they observed a Ford Escape that was double-parked with a tail light out and fraudulent registration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court documents say as officers approached the vehicle, a suspect inside the car allegedly opened fire, hitting and killing Martinez and another passenger. Following the shooting, the gunman allegedly attempted to flee the scene in the vehicle but hit and injured another officer. Police said the passenger who was fatally shot during the incident was later found to be in possession of a handgun. Officers also uncovered another gun from the scene. The alleged gunman was later identified as 23-year-old Darion McMillian of Harvey, who has since been charged with two counts of first-degree murder, one count of attempted first-degree murder, two counts of unlawful use of a weapon, and one count of burglary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: Man charged with murder of CPD Officer Enrique Martinez denied bond in court Thursday McMillian, a convicted felon, was on electronic monitoring in connection with two pending Will County cases. Authorities have not yet identified the other man McMillian is accused of killing. We need the other two spokes on the wheels of the criminal justice system, the States Attorney and the judicial system, to partner with us to bring that goal of safety to the community, retired Chief of Detectives Eugene Roy said Sunday. Mayor will not attend Mayor Brandon Johnson had initially planned to attend Mondays funeral service for Martinez, even though Martinezs family had asked that he not attend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mayor reversed course on Saturday, saying he will not attend the funeral and that the focus must remain on Officer Martinez, his loved ones, and the CPD as our city continues to honor his ultimate sacrifice and legacy of service. Martinezs family has also asked Governor JB Pritzker not to attend the funeral service, and Pritzker said hell honor that request. Monday mornings funeral procession will leave from the Blake-Lamb Funeral Home in Oak Lawn before heading down West 103rd Street to South Western Avenue, then down S. Western Ave. to 77th Street, where St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel is located. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. Travel blogger Nicole Sunderland has visited every US state, with repeat trips to some favorites. On her blog, she spotlights luxurious hotels and cruises but also loves exploring locally in the US. Nevada, Arizona, and Virginia are among her favorite states. Nicole Sunderland first caught the travel bug over two decades ago when she sold magazines door to door around the country. In 2004, she found a job ad in a newspaper that read, "Looking for fun in the sun?" with a phone number. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I was like, 'This is so me, whatever it is,'" Sunderland told Business Insider. The next day, she called the number, and the day after, she was on a Greyhound bus from Orlando to Islip, New York, with a new job as a traveling sales representative that helped kick-start her travel adventures. "That was kind of my introduction into both sales and traveling the US and really getting to see how people live and operate all over the country," said Sunderland. Today, she is a travel blogger with a million Instagram followers who has not only traveled to every US state some of which she's been to multiple times but also toured around the world widely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although most of her recent work spotlights opulent hotels, cruise stays, and international luxury travel experiences, she periodically revisits her favorite states to explore new spots. "My goal is to visit at least five places in the US that I have not been to before because I want to continue exploring more of the US," Sunderland told BI. Here are five states she's been to and would love to explore again soon. Nevada Nicole Sunderland has been to Las Vegas about 25 times, and each time she visits, she drives out of town to see the Valley of Fire State Park. Galyna Andrushko/Shutterstock "It shocks people when I tell them this, but I've been to Las Vegas 25 times and am not really a gambler," said Sunderland. Instead, her love for Sin City stems from its incredible culinary scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Every time I go, there are new restaurants, and I always find things to do in the city that I've never done before," she said. She said she's stayed in almost every luxury resort in the city like the Sahara, where she once paid $19 for a night's stay and even in hotels that no longer exist, but every time she visits, she feels as though she's had a whole new experience. Some spots she loves to go back to include "the Neon Sign Museum, which has signs from all of the old buildings and hotels that no longer exist. It's like a graveyard," she said. She also always makes a trip out of town to see Valley of Fire State Park, which is about an hour outside the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's so beautiful out there. It looks a lot like Sedona," she said. Arizona Sunderland loves Scottsdale, which, in recent years, has become a hot spot for luxury travelers. Nicole Sunderland Arizona's vast and diverse landscape is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders, often backdropped by stunning sunsets. In a 2017 blog, Sunderland wrote, "I think I have decided that desert is my new favorite landscape," after a weekend visit to Scottsdale and Sedona. Years later, she still considers it one of her most memorable trips, saying, "Scottsdale is one of my favorite cities." Situated in the eastern part of Maricopa County, the city is a recent luxury travel hot spot and home to some of the wealthiest people in the country. AZ Central reported earlier this year that about 14,600 of the 243,000 residents are millionaires, and five are billionaires. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Sunderland loves the palm-tree-lined town for its quaint coffee shops, artisanal bakeries, and boutique shopping experience. She also loves cruising through Sedona, Page, and the Grand Canyon South Rim when visiting the state. New Mexico Sunderland suggests everyone should see the Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico at least once. Nicole Sunderland The southwestern state is known for its natural wonders, historical sites, and, in Sunderland's opinion, "its fabulous food." "The food in Santa Fe is incredible," said Sunderland, who, on her first visit to the city, found the food a little too spicy for her tastes but still found plenty of other mouthwatering alternatives. She also loves visiting Albuquerque for its museums and artwork, but most importantly, for the International Balloon Fiesta, which takes place in October every year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I think the Balloon Fiesta is something everyone should experience once," she said, describing it as an event where hundreds of people gather during sunrise to watch about 500 to 800 balloons take flight. "It is one of the most incredible things to see," she said. Massachusetts Sunderland loves that Massachusetts has such diverse offerings on display to see and experience. NayaDadara/Shutterstock Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From sleek skyscrapers and skinny homes in Boston to sprawling mansions in the Berkshires, Massachusetts has a diverse mix of architectural styles on display. But the state is also known for its coastal beaches, fresh seafood, and prominent universities. "I love Massachusetts," Sunderland said, adding that she learns something new about the state and its history every visit. Virginia It's common to spot bears in Shenandoah National Park, a site Sunderland enjoys visiting. Jbreach/Shutterstock While Sunderland, who grew up in Michigan, now lives in Virginia, she said she travels so often that it's easy to overlook places closer to home, so she's committed to exploring it more extensively. She loves that Virginia is home to all types of natural wonders: "Small towns, big cities, mountains, beaches, ski resorts, we have everything." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her favorite places are "Alexandria, which is in Northern Virginia; then you've got Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive, which is one of the best fall drives in the country." She also loves lounging by Virginia Beach on sunny days and is grateful for its proximity to DC, which she said is "kind of like a two-for-one trip if you can make it work." Read the original article on Business Insider "He forever inscribed his name in the history of world ballet art," the Mariinsky Theatre wrote in a tribute CARL DE SOUZA/AFP via Getty Ballet dancer Vladimir Shklyarov performing 'Tchaikovsky Pas de Deux' in London on Oct. 15, 2008 Ballet dancer Vladimir Shklyarov performing 'Tchaikovsky Pas de Deux' in London on Oct. 15, 2008 Vladimir Shklyarov, an acclaimed Russian ballet dancer, has died. He was 39. Shklyarov died on Saturday, Nov. 16, after falling from the fifth floor of a building, Anna Kasatkina, a representative for the Mariinsky Theatre in Saint Petersburg, Russia, told local news outlet Fontanka. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident took place while Shklyarov was on painkillers prior to a spinal surgery scheduled for Monday, Nov. 18, Kasatkina said. Kasatkina did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment. While a federal investigation has been launched to investigate Shklyarov's death, "the preliminary cause" has been ruled an accident, according to Russian news agency RIA Novosti. Related: 'I Looked Death Right in the Face': Stars Open Up About Their Near-Death Experiences Katherine Frey/The Washington Post via Getty Maria Shirinkina and Vladimir Shklyarov in a 2012 production of 'Cinderella' at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Maria Shirinkina and Vladimir Shklyarov in a 2012 production of 'Cinderella' at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Shklyarov joined Mariinsky Theatre in 2003, following his graduation from the Academy of Russian Ballet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He danced in the theater company for over 20 years and became its principal dancer meaning the highest-ranking performer in 2011. In a statement, Mariinsky Theatre said, "This is a huge loss not only for the theater's staff, but for all of today's ballet art." "Our condolences to the artist's family, loved ones, friends and all the numerous admirers of his work and talent," it continued. "His boundless creative abilities were recognized with numerous awards," the theater concluded its tribute. "He forever inscribed his name in the history of world ballet art." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now! Throughout his career, Shklyarov starred in productions of The Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake, Don Quixote and Romeo and Juliet. He also performed with the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, the Royal Opera House in London and The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. He was married to ballet dancer Maria Shirinkina, with whom he shared two children. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Many paid tribute to Shklyarov with tributes on social media after his death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fellow dancer Irina Baranovskaya called Shklyarov's death "a stupid, unbearable accident" in a post on Telegram, a popular social media site in Russia. She said he "went out onto the balcony to get some air and smoke" and "lost his balance." American Ballet Theater, where the late ballet dancer performed as a guest artist in both 2014 and 2015, shared a message on Instagram, writing, "Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his brilliance." They added, "Rest in peace, Vladimir. Your light will continue to shine through the beauty you brought to this world." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Ryan O'Neal's Cause of Death Revealed 2 Weeks After Actor Died at 82 Fellow Mariinsky Theatre dancer Diana Vishneva, meanwhile, shared a heartfelt note on X (formerly known as Twitter). "This tragedy brings only tears and sadness," she began. "Volodya, it is impossible to comprehene how early and unfair you passed away. This is the tragedy for our theatre, our common grief, feeling of emptiness," Vishneva continued. Bruce's Legacy founder Keith Cormican said he pored over sonar data for days, only to find out that Ryan Borgwardt may have staged his own disappearance NBC;Facebook Keith Cormican; Ryan Borgwardt Keith Cormican; Ryan Borgwardt A volunteer who assisted a Wisconsin sheriff's office in the search for a man who is now alleged to have faked his own death is sharing his reaction to the unexpected development. Keith Cormican the founder of Bruce's Legacy, an all-volunteer nonprofit that assists with search and rescue missions as well as recovery efforts from victims of drowning spoke with Wisconsin news outlet NBC 26 about his role in the search for Ryan Borgwardt, a married father whom police now believe staged his own disappearance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cormican, who helped search for Borgwardt by running sonar checks for more than a week in Wisconsin's Green Lake and boating across the waters for 23 days, said he feels a sense of relief along with uncomfortable uncertainty about what's to come. "My first emotion was, 'Okay, I didn't miss him he just wasn't there,' " Cormican told NBC 26, recalling the moment he learned that Borgwardt is alive. Related: Missing Father of 3 Faked His Disappearance in Kayak Accident and Fled to Europe: Authorities Green Lake County Sheriffs Office A map of the area where Bruce's Legacy searched for Ryan Borgwardt A map of the area where Bruce's Legacy searched for Ryan Borgwardt "That was certainly very, very tough to deal with emotionally," he added. "There was many nights that I'd get up in middle of the night because I couldn't sleep, and I would get up and get on the laptop and start going through sonar data." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Borgwardt has not been seen by his family or authorities since Aug. 12, when deputies responded to a missing persons call and found his vehicle and trailer in Green Lake County. Sheriff's office deputies discovered his capsized kayak, fishing pole, car, wallet, driver's license and keys all unattended near a fishing spot. But on Nov. 8, Green Lake County Sheriff Mark Podoll said a search of Borgwardts laptop that took place in October led investigators to discover that he had replaced his hard drive and deleted his internet browser history the day he vanished. Authorities later found that Borgwardt had taken photos of his passport, moved funds to a foreign bank account, changed his email and communicated with a woman in Uzbekistan. The sheriff said earlier this month that the father of three had taken out a $375,000 life insurance policy months before he disappeared, and authorities were tipped off when they discovered that his passport had been checked by Canadian law enforcement on Aug. 13, the day after he was reported missing. Police now believe Borgwardt is "somewhere in Europe." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Wisconsin Father Who Allegedly Faked Kayak Accident Was in Contact with Woman Overseas: Police Green Lake County Sheriff's Office Ryan Borgwardt Ryan Borgwardt For Cormican who started his nonprofit after his firefighter brother Bruce Cormican drowned in 1995 the initial search kept him awake at night, as he feared letting Borgwardt's family down if he wasn't able to find the missing dad. "The stress of it ... emotional feelings of wondering if I missed him ... did I let the family down? Did I let the sheriff department down? Did I let the community down?" Cormican told the local station. Cormican, who now plans to focus on another missing person search in Wyoming that he had to postpone during the search for Borgwardt, said this incident wont change his mission to find missing people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I feel very, very sorry for the family that you know is having to go through this type of circumstances dealing with now what? What happens next for them? Yeah, pretty tough," Cormican said. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. During a press conference earlier this month, Sheriff Podoll urged Borgwardt to come forward for the sake of his children. They thought that their dad drowned, he said on Nov. 8, per local TV station WBAY. A day ago, they found out that he wasnt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Podoll also thanked Borgwardts wife, calling her one strong lady." Ryan, if you are viewing this, I plead that you contact us or contact your family," the sheriff said. "We understand that things can happen, but theres a family that wants their daddy back. HENDERSON. Ky. (WEHT) Three people were arrested Thursday after a search for a wanted suspect from Kentucky led Indiana State Police to Jasper. A press release obtained by Eyewitness News says Kevin Henning, of Kentucky was wanted on multiple felony warrants out of Kentucky. Troopers were told that Henning was living with his girlfriend in Grandview, Indiana. The release goes on to say that troopers found a vehicle that belonged to Hennings girlfriend in the Jasper Wal-Mart parking lot. Troopers and officers with the Jasper Police Department found the occupant of the vehicle, Michael Bickett of Kentucky. Henning was not located at the scene. While speaking with Bickett, officers found approximately 72 grams of suspected methamphetamine and approximately 61 grams of suspected marijuana in the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Troopers say hours later, Henning was arrested while deputies with the Spencer County Sheriffs Office were conducting a traffic stop. His girlfriend identified as Letisha Cook was also arrested. Michael Bickett Dealing Methamphetamine Level 2 Felony Possession of Methamphetamine Level 3 Felony Dealing Marijuana Level 6 Felony Maintaining a Common Nuisance Possession of Marijuana Class A Misdemeanor Possession of Paraphernalia Class C Misdemeanor Kevin Henning Parole and Kentucky Warrants Felonies Possession of Methamphetamine Level 6 Felony Possession of Marijuana Class B Misdemeanor Possession of Paraphernalia Class C Misdemeanor Letisha Cook Possession of Methamphetamine Level 6 Felony Possession of Marijuana Class B Misdemeanor Possession of Paraphernalia Class C Misdemeanor Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW). COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) More than two weeks after a 16-year-old boy was gunned down in North Linden, Columbus police have released surveillance footage of one of the two suspects. Columbus police responded to the intersection of East Weber Road and Howey Road about midnight on Oct. 30 and found MeKhi Keys on the sidewalk having been shot. Keys later died at a hospital. Police said Keys and another teenager were walking eastbound on East Weber when they encountered the two suspects. Witnesses said they was a brief exchange before one of the suspects pulled out a gun and shot Keys. No one else was hurt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspects left by heading east and then south on Howey. Neither has been located. This week, police, along with Central Ohio Crime Stoppers, released surveillance footage of one of the suspects. Crime Stoppers, which is offering a cash reward for information leading to the arrest and/or indictment of the suspects. Those with information may contact them at at 614-461-TIPS (8477) or visit www.stopcrime.org to submit a tip. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. CINCINNATI, Ohio (KMID/KPEJ) Fritz the hippo looked eager to greet his fans at the Cincinnati Zoo on Sunday, November 10. Watch: Slackliners balance between flying hot air balloons at 2,500 meters setting new world record Footage from the zoo showed the famous hippo sitting right by the glass for visitors to walk by. Two-year-old Fritz and his sister Fiona are far from camera shy, according to the zoo, often spending daylight hours parked next to the glass walls of their enclosure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin. DIXIE COUNTY, Florida (KMID/KPEJ) A stranded sea turtle was found more than a mile from the Gulf of Mexico and was seen resting at the Florida Aquariums Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center in Apollo Beach. Footage released by the aquarium showed the moment Buckley the sea turtle was found. For Buckley to be able to get from that dirt road back to the ocean would be a very difficult journey and probably not likely, said Ashley Riese, the Florida Aquarium`s Sea Turtle program director. WATCH: Hippo eagerly awaits visitors at OH zoo Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Good Samaritans spotted the animal and called the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission hotline for help. Riese added the Buckley was doing well and had not suffered any external injuries. Following the turtles rehabilitation, the goal is to return Buckley back to the Gulf of Mexico, the Florida Aquarium said. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin. A gag order remains on their identities. Two flares were thrown at Netanyahu's private home in Caesarea on Saturday night, landing in the house's courtyard. The Prime Minister and his family were not home at the time. Netanyahu's private residence was attacked by a Hezbollah drone in October. Images published in Israeli media showed cracks in a bedroom window where the drone struck but failed to penetrate. The window was presumably made of reinforced glass and is believed to have other protections. Netanyahu and his family were not there at the time. (ANI/TPS) Editor's note: This article is an on-site version of KI Insights' The Week Ahead newsletter covering events from Nov. 18-Nov. 24. Sign up here to start your week with an agenda of Ukraine-related events, delivered directly to your inbox every Sunday. The G20 Summit will take place in Brazil on Nov. 18-19. Brazil aims to use the summit to position itself as a lead voice for Latin America and the Global South. Foreign Minister Lavrov will represent Russia (Brazils Lula da Silva shifted responsibility over the ICC arrest warrant for Vladimir Putin). US President Joe Biden and Chinas leader Xi Jinping are both set to attend. The G20 summit comes on the heels of the APEC meeting in Peru. China was at the center of multiple major topics discussed: fighting protectionism (and looming Trump tariffs), Korean peninsula security (notably in light of North Koreas entering the war), and Brazils economic pivot to Beijing. The Verkhovna Rada has scheduled a plenary week for Nov. 19-22, during which the adoption of the 2025 budget is planned. The budget hinges on the president signing the tax hike bill passed by parliament over a month ago (which may be further delayed by prospects of elections). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The IMF mission currently in Ukraine emphasizes this necessity. However, the Rada committee meeting meant to approve the bill's final version was postponed from Friday to an unspecified date. Expect discussions on budget-connected issues next week: porn decriminalization (mostly as a distraction, but also for tax reasons), salaries for prosecutors and teachers, the road fund and local government finances, among others. A second reading vote may take place on a bill defining the legal status of military paramedics, and another one streamlining the procedure for writing off military property (which could simplify decommissioning of various drones and ground-based electronic warfare kit). KI Insights Visit KI Insights to learn more and subscribe to the insider weekly newsletter Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement visit ki insights The first round of Romania's presidential elections is set for Nov. 24. Current polls show Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu in the lead. Top contenders for the second round include Nicolae Ciuca (PNL), George Simion (AUR), and Elena Lasconi (USR). Despite Ciolacu's lead, polls suggest these three have a real chance of advancing to the runoff. Ciolacu is a strong advocate for Ukraine, supporting its EU and NATO aspirations. The primary threat to Ukraine may be George Simion's potential advancement to the second round, given his far-right party's growing support. Simion is barred from entering Moldova and Ukraine for three years, partly due to suspected FSB connections. He staunchly opposes aid to Ukraine, especially military assistance. Reports indicate Russian interference attempts in the elections, involving the use of proxies and social media bot networks. Other events and milestones: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nov. 20: "Ukrainska Pravda" to host "UP 100" where the publication will award 100 influential Ukrainians across the Public Administration, Sports, Society, Culture, Defense, and Business sectors. Zelensky to present internal victory strategy next week, covering 10 key areas including energy, defense, and culture. Plan details are to be refined with business and civil society input. Read also: Opinion: 3 ways Trumps return to power could unfold for Ukraine Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. People walk across a makeshift bridge in Bat Cave, North Carolina as repair work contrinues following Hurricane Helene flooding. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images) Josh Stein faces a tall first task as governor: Rebuilding western NC after Helene Gov.-elect Josh Stein addresses supporters in Raleigh on Nov. 5, 2024. (Photo: Galen Bacharier/NC Newsline) By Galen Bacharier Gov.-elect views recovery in west as top priority entering administration. Heres what hes said about his approach. When Attorney General Josh Stein is sworn in as governor in January, hell inherit the largest disaster recovery effort in the history of North Carolina. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Efforts to rebuild communities in the mountains following Hurricane Helene are underway and will continue in the coming months as billions of state and federal dollars flow into the west. A spokesperson for Steins transition team said hurricane response was a top priority for the governor-elect. [Read more...] Western NC officials set to visit White House, Capitol Hill to push for federal aid post-Helene The Rocky Broad River flows into Lake Lure and overflows the town with debris from Chimney Rock, North Carolina, after heavy rains from Hurricane Helene on Sept. 28, 2024, in Lake Lure. (Photo by Melissa Sue Gerrits/Getty Images) By Galen Bacharier A group of western North Carolina officials will travel to Washington next week to meet with White House staff and the states congressional delegation, where they will request further federal aid to help the region recover from Hurricane Helene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Esther Manheimer, the mayor of Asheville, told NC Newsline in an interview Friday that she and other local government leaders, as well as Gov. Roy Cooper, would visit the nations capital on Wednesday and Thursday, November 20 and 21. [Read more] U.S. Supreme Court rejects former Rep. Mark Meadows bid to move election case to federal court The U.S. Supreme Court has rejected the motion of former North Carolina congressman and White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows to have his Georgia state court criminal prosecution for allegedly seeking to subvert the 2020 election moved to federal court. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images) By: Brandon Kingdollar Former North Carolina U.S. Rep. Mark Meadows will have to try his election subversion case in Georgia after the Supreme Court rejected a bid to remove it to federal court Tuesday. Meadows, who was charged with racketeering and a slew of other felonies for participating in then-President Donald Trumps scheme to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election, sought to move the case to federal court on the grounds that he was acting in his official capacity as Trumps White House Chief of Staff. [Read more] Trump cabinet picks draw mixed reviews from NC congressional delegation U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz is photographed inside the Rayburn House Office Building Feb. 27, 2019. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By Christine Zhu Sen. Thom Tillis delivers a wait and see take on controversial nomination of Matt Gaetz as Attorney General The latest frenzy in Washington is over President-elect Donald Trumps cabinet appointments. The transition effort began with relatively orthodox choices, CNN reported, like campaign co-chair Susie Wiles as White House chief of staff. Other choices namely Fox News host Pete Hegseth as defense secretary and just-resigned Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz as attorney general have the political world scratching their heads. [Read more] Bonus reads: * Trump picks Fox News host to run Pentagon; Tulsi Gabbard to head national intelligence Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Meet the North Carolina members of the U.S. House * Heres a look at the new North Carolina Council of State Hundreds of Wake ballots arrive too late to count as NC counties work to finalize election tallies Wake County Board of Elections member Angela Hawkins and Board Chairwoman Erica Porter confer. (Photo: Lynn Bonner) By: Lynn Bonner Dozens of late-arriving ballots were sent by express mail. Red and yellow containers sat at the end edge of the Wake County Board of Elections meeting table on Wednesday as members prepared to sift through their contents as part of the painstaking work of reviewing voter information that accompanied absentee ballots. Thousands of ballots had no problems and were approved in bulk. But some absentee ballots arrived initially without a voter signature. Some were sent without all the witness information included. Some didnt have the proper notary seals. [Read more...] Republican control in Washington could mean trouble for expanded Medicaid in North Carolina Washington politicians seeking to cut health insurance costs could put NCs Medicaid expansion in danger. (Photo: JoeRaedle/Getty Images) By Lynn Bonner A reduction in federal funding would jeopardize health insurance coverage for more than a half-million NC residents Health insurance coverage on which millions of Americans rely Medicaid and plans purchased through the Affordable Care Act were scarcely mentioned during the presidential campaign but may face extensive changes in President-elect Donald Trumps second term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At a campaign stop in Pennsylvania last month, House Speaker Mike Johnson promised massive changes to health care in a second Trump administration. [Read more...] Winston-Salem public housing residents want representation on housing authority board Crystal Tower (Photo: Courtesy of Crystal Towers United) By: Greg Childress Michael Douglas, a public housing tenant in Winston-Salem, says he has grown tired of waiting to be represented on the Housing Authoritys board of commissioners. Without a representative on the nine-member board, Douglas said his concerns and those of other public housing residents arent being addressed. They give us enough to shut us up and to make us go sit down, said Douglas, who lives in Crystal Towers, a 201-unit public housing high rise near downtown that houses low-income residents. [Read more] Whats next for Republicans defeated in NC? Vying for federal jobs and fighting GOP battles From left to right: Michele Morrow, Mark Robinson, and Dan Bishop. (Morrow photo: Galen Bacharier/NC Newsline. Robinson and Bishop photos: Getty Images) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By: Galen Bacharier Michele Morrow seeks Trump administration job, while Mark Robinson fires more broadsides and Dan Bishop hints at possible return to D.C. Some of North Carolinas most prominent Republicans lost their races last week. But with a second Trump administration in the offing and party jockeying in progress in Washington, some of them appear primed to stay in the mix. Michele Morrow, who ran for superintendent of public instruction and lost to Democrat Mo Green, is the object of an anonymous nomination to serve in the Department of Education. In social media posts this week, she linked supporters to an online form part of an open-source effort by Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and his allies to staff executive branch positions.[Read more] WEST HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) The 16th annual Craft Festival and Marketplace benefitting a non-profit that sends medical aid to Haiti drew hundreds of people to shop Saturday. The craft festival was at the Church of St Peter Claver on Pleasant Street. It showcased 45 artisans that sold holiday goods and crafts. One hundred percent of the vendor fee and proceeds from the bake sale and raffle will go to non-profit Medical Aid to Haiti (MATH). The organization is trying to get more medical resources to Haiti as violence flares amid political turmoil. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Connecticuts Haitian community concerned after airlines ban travel to Port-au-Prince This week, the U.S. banned flights to Haiti after two airplanes were struck by gang gunfire. MATH is currently trying to send down two infant incubators for premature births. Were going to see if the ports are still open, said MATH chair and secretary Anne DOrvilliers. Well probably send it by ship but we want to make sure it gets there. MATH helps to finance a small hospital that employs Haitian doctors and staff. The hospital sees about 17,000 visits from men, women and children a year who otherwise would not have access to consistent healthcare. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We realize that we had to help Haitians heal Haitians by supporting them down there, said Rick Thibadeau, MATHs founder and president. Its nice to down as part of a mission but really they need to help themselves 365 days a year. Audrey Byrnette and Lorrie Chapman are co-chairs for the craft festival. We wanted to do something to give back, said Byrnette. Were close to Rick and believe in his mission, so thats what we did to help out. MATH is mostly operated by volunteers, with 95 cents of every dollar raised and donated going to Haiti. Volunteers like Debbye Rosen who visited the country said families were grateful to see a hospital come to their community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Haiti sees a rise in killings and police executions with children targeted, UN says They were always so appreciative, and theyd bring their little children, 8 oclock in the morning, the kids would be all dressed up and they would be so excited to see the medical care, she said. The craft festival also featured Haitian vendors like Marc Regis, who runs a summer camp in Haiti for kids ages 3-16. He raises money throughout the year to pay for the camp, its counselors and twice-a-day meals. Regis hopes the violence in Haiti comes to an end so camp can resume next year. They have a week of fun, experiencing activities, he said. They dont have to worry about anything because they get a good meal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The marketplace continues Sunday from 9:30 to 4pm. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. Aaron Spolin, a Princeton-educated attorney and former McKinsey & Co. consultant who signed up thousands of inmate clients seeking release under new criminal justice reform laws, was hit with a second round of charges by the State Bar of California last week. The 18 counts filed Thursday follow an initial filing of disciplinary charges in August and provide more examples of how the bar contends that Spolin and his Westside firm used deceptive marketing and outright lies to convince desperate families to hire him. One alleged violation concerned a 2023 news release on Spolins website announcing that Gov. Gavin Newsom had commuted the sentence of one of his clients. In fact, the man told The Times last year, he had pursued the commutation on his own, and Spolin did not do any work on it. At the time, Spolins firm was urging families to pay more than $9,000 to pursue a commutation, a route experts say has only a miniscule chance of success. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In another instance cited by the bar, an attorney working for Spolin told a Los Angeles man, Wesner Charles Jr., who was serving a sentence of 27 years to life for attempted carjacking and robbery, that a reform law could get him out in six to eight months. Read more: A California lawyer cashed in on criminal justice reform by fanning the hopes of inmates families Spolin charged the family $19,000 without informing them that Charles and others convicted of violent crimes did not meet the requirements for consideration. The L.A. County district attorneys office had written no fewer than nine letters to Spolin advising him that such cases would not be acted upon, wrote Cindy Chan, a supervising attorney in the bars Office of Chief Trial Counsel. Charles, who maintained his innocence, was later released with the help of a different attorney. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rest of the new allegations relate to three other incarcerated men from L.A. whose families paid $11,500 to $21,700 for fruitless legal services. If found culpable, Spolin, 39, faces possible penalties ranging from probation to disbarment by the state Supreme Court. An attorney for Spolin, Erin Joyce, previously told The Times that her client has been fully cooperative with the State Bar and will continue to cooperate. He looks forward to resolving this matter in the near future. In a filing last month, Joyce wrote that bar prosecutors had informed her that they intend to serially prosecute [Spolin], bringing multiple cases in succession. She acknowledged an ongoing criminal investigation by the state attorney general into Spolin's practices, but denied that he had committed any crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: State Bar accuses L.A. lawyer of misleading inmates and their desperate families She wrote that for well over a year, Spolin has refused paid representation for the type of resentencing cases the bar has faulted him for and that he has also modified or removed his firms advertising statements. Spolin worked for the Bronx district attorneys office before moving to L.A. and launching a practice focused on representing inmates under a raft of laws meant to reduce mass incarceration. He told The Times last year that he used techniques he had learned as a McKinsey consultant to streamline his business. He ran his firm out of a co-working space, used templates for legal documents and paid lawyers from the Philippines and other parts of the developing world hourly rates of about $10. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. WHALLONSBURG After seven months of closure, the 91-year-old bridge extending over the Boquet River on Route 22 by the Grange and fire house has been replaced with a single span steel girder structure. Though not in imminent danger of collapse, according to State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez, it had, reached the end of its service life (of) enhancing safety, mobility and resiliency along an important connector route for North Country travelers. The new bridge is longer than its predecessor, which will better protect the rivers ecosystem, and has wider shoulders to better accommodate the pedestrians and cyclists who frequently travel this roadway to reach the Empire State Trail and other popular recreational destinations in the area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement BRIDGE HISTORY Built in 1933, the old 110-foot-long bridge carried approximately 930 motor vehicles per day over the Boquet River. The new bridge is 30 feet longer, which eliminated the need for in-water construction and minimized disturbances to the rivers ecosystem. The five-foot-wide shoulders should better accommodate pedestrians and cyclists who share the roadway. The $3.4 million project which started in March 2024, utilizes state funds and $2.7 million in federal funds made available under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill. DOT also removed the original Department of Public Works Bridge Marker which is being preserved by the Town of Essex. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Route 22 is one of the longest north-south highways in New York, and one of the oldest components of the states highway system, running along the eastern edge of the state from the Bronx to the Canadian border, crossing the Boquet River three times in Essex County, with the new bridge being the mid-point. There were few glitches. Perhaps the most noticeable was the transport of the five 140-foot-long beams to the site, especially when making 90-degree turns. BRIDGE DEDICATION A short dedication ceremony, which included a ribbon cutting, was held in which Essex Town Supervisor Ken Hughes, Chair of the Essex County Board of Supervisors Shaun Gillilland, State Assemblyman Matt Simpson, and DOT Regional Director Mike Arthur, gave brief remarks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Route 22 bridge over the Boquet River in Whallonsburg is part of vital road network that affords travelers from all over the world the opportunity to access the High Peaks of New York and beautiful New England through the eastern part of the Adirondacks, Hughes said. The NYS DOT did a terrific job of preparing the greater community for the major disruption of total bridge replacement on this vital route. Their engineers and staff were excellent partners with the Town of Essex to ensure that safety and ease of use for detouring traffic was of paramount importance. Their efficient work on the Route 22 bridge has proven beneficial to the community as they have completed the work a full two months ahead of the original proposed timeline. We in Essex and Whallonsburg thank the DOT for getting the job done well with as minimal impact to the Whallonsburg neighborhood as possible and look forward to enjoying the fruits of their labor for the next 90 years. Gillilland added that the New York State Department of Transportation has accomplished a fantastic and flawless feat of a technically complex bridge replacement over a regionally major waterway that is vital to Essex County transportation and commerce; all completed expeditiously with minimal interruption. Essex County truly appreciates the invaluable support and teamwork of NYSDOT. Simpson thanked those involved for, recognizing our infrastructure is aging. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arthur added: We hope everyone approves our focus on connecting communities, not just the motoring public. We are looking forward to another 90 years. Reference was also made to Winn Construction of Waterford, NY, not only for the timely completion, but their cooperation with the DOT and public. Email Alvin Reiner at: rondackrambler@gmail.com. The culture wars have found their way to the dessert table. What was supposed to be a simple birthday treat devolved into the latest flashpoint after The View co-host Whoopi Goldberg implied that a New York bakery refused to take her order because of her liberal politics. Its an accusation that the bakery has denied. Now, the store is claiming that an influx of orders has flooded its phone lines as local residents show their support for the small business. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The controversy started when Goldberg recounted in Wednesdays episode of the The View that she had tried to order a batch of charlotte russe showing off platters of sponge cakes topped with whipped cream and a cherry from a family-owned New York City bakery. Now, I should tell you, charlotte russe has no political leanings, and the place that made these refused to make them for me, she said, generating gasps from the audience, before going on to suggest that perhaps they did not like my politics. Goldberg had been open about her support of then-Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris on The View when she was invited onto the talk show last month. They said that their ovens had gone down, all kinds of stuff, but folks went and got them anyway, which is why Im not telling you who made them, Goldberg said. But the distinctive polka-dotted packaging on the cakes left local viewers little doubt about which business she was talking about: Holtermanns Bakery in Staten Island. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bakerys owner, Jill Holtermann, quickly denied that she turned Goldberg away for political reasons, reportedly citing boiler issues as the reason she couldnt commit to the actors initial attempts to order the cakes. But Goldberg doubled down on her claim Thursday, saying in an Instagram video that it still seemed a little odd that the bakery couldnt process Goldbergs birthday order, yet somehow, they were able to accept an order of a different 48 of the same dessert when somebody else called without using my name. In a news conference Friday, Staten Islands borough president, Republican Vito Fossella, stood alongside fellow local officials in front of Holtermanns Bakery as he announced, Were here today to support them, to say that Staten Island stands with them, and I venture to guess that people across this country knew what the Holtermann family was all about. And the way we can make this better, and the woman Im talking to, I wont mention her name, just say youre sorry so we can put this behind us, he added, calling on Goldberg to apologize for her speculative remarks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Goldberg and Holtermanns Bakery did not immediately respond to NBC News requests for comment. But Holtermann, who joined Fossella at Fridays news conference, said that the bakery has received overwhelming support in the wake of the incident. On Saturday, the bakery also shared in a social media statement that its phones have been ringing off the hook. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for all the incredible support weve received from near and far! it wrote in another post. For the second day in a row, weve emptied out the shop, and its all thanks to YOU! Your love and loyalty keep us going! Whoopi Goldberg attends the Tribeca Film Festival, in N.Y., on April 19, 2013. The controversy coincided with actress Rachel Zegler facing criticism for her inflammatory anti-Donald Trump comments online, another moment in recent weeks that underscores how culture and politics have become increasingly charged. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zegler, who is starring as Snow White in Disneys upcoming live adaptation of its classic film, had written in an Instagram story that she hoped Trump supporters and Trump voters and Trump himself may never know peace a remark that prompted conservative media personality Megyn Kelly to call for Disney to fire Zegler because this woman is a pig. Zegler, who did not immediately respond to requests for comment, apologized for her comments on Thursday, writing in an updated Instagram story, I let my emotions get the best of me. Hatred and anger have caused us to move further and further away from peace and understanding, and I am sorry I contributed to the negative discourse, Zegler wrote. I firmly believe that everyone has the right to their own opinion, even when it differs from my own. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Fresno County swung Republican in a presidential election for the first time in two decades, backing President-elect Donald Trumps bid to return to the White House, and experts say much of it came down to working class voters. The county saw one of the biggest shifts toward Trump in the state. Fresno County has returned 53.1% of the vote for Trump over Vice President Kamala Harris (44.6%) as of the county Registrar of Voters latest tally. Though there are still ballots to count, thats basically a complete swing from 2020 when President Joe Biden won Fresno County with 52.9% of the vote to Trumps 45%. Trump also lost the county vote in 2016 to Hilary Clinton, albeit by a smaller margin of six percentage points. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What changed this time? Turnout is one likely factor. In Fresno County, the 2020 presidential election drew a record 75% of registered voters, according to the Registrar of Voters. The number of voters who cast ballots this year is on pace to be about 60%, which is typical for a presidential election in Fresno County, but also suggests several would-be Harris supporters didnt vote. Experts and voters told The Bee the economy played a significant role in the shift toward Trump, pointing to rising consumer prices and feelings of difficult economic times. I think people just voted their pocketbook, said Thomas Holyoke, a political science professor at Fresno State. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was some concern about immigration and crime as well, but I think it was really the economic pocketbook, Holyoke said. And if Trump cant deliver relatively quickly on bringing prices down, then those people will abandon him. They are not super loyal supporters. Jerry Reyes, a 24-year-old insurance agent and registered independent, voted for his first presidential election this year after sitting out the 2020 election. The Clovis resident offered a simple reason why he cast his ballot for Trump: Life isnt getting better. People started realizing that the truth is, prices went up. The money that was given to us during COVID under a certain administration, we realized that money wasnt free, Reyes said. Latinos swing for Trump Exit polls for the 2024 election showed Trump received historic support nationally from Latino voters, like Reyes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Fresno County breakdown on voters was not yet available but early statewide tallies suggest more Latinos voted for Trump in California, where that demographic has long been considered a reliable vote for the Democratic party. Monica Diaz, a Fresno County business owner and Latina, said she and many Latinos voted with their consciences. She said the election results in Fresno County reflected people speaking out that were fed up. The politicians run for office and they dont keep their promises, and they do not take care of business, Diaz said. They focus more on their own agenda than the peoples agenda. La Abeja, a newsletter written for and by California Latinos Sign up here to receive our weekly newsletter centered around Latino issues in California. The support for Trump from Latinos would seem to fly in the face of his rhetoric demonizing immigrants and his promise of mass deportations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement California is home to the largest undocumented immigrant population in the country, yet many of the San Joaquin Valley counties with the largest undocumented populations and those that rely the most on immigrant workers went red. Kerman Mayor Maria Pacheco said her town has a large undocumented population, as do many nearby West Side towns like Huron and Mendota. I know that people are struggling financially, and I know there was a lot of promises for some economic relief, and I think that was probably peoples incentive for voting the way that they did, Pacheco said. But I dont think that they really understood the unintended consequences of that, and one of those consequences being the threats of deportation. Whether Trump follows through on his promise for mass deportation remains to be seen. California has greater protections for the undocumented than other states. Some experts have also noted such a large scale deportation effort by Trump would cost hundreds of billions of dollars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state Legislature passed laws and took a stance in California to protect undocumented immigrants in 2016 in response to Trumps efforts during his first term. Though the Valley has voted Democrat in every presidential election since the 2004 race to re-elect President George W. Bush, it has a significant conservative voting bloc. That has many advocates watching what will happen, said Jesus Martinez, executive director of Central Valley Immigrant Integration Collaborative. We also want to emphasize that our concern is, and our priority is, the defense of immigrant rights, he said. We are going to be working against those policies to try to harm immigrant communities. Fresno County turnout hurt Harris The Valleys support for Trump did not come as a surprise to many. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unlike more populous parts of California that went overwhelmingly blue for Harris, Fresno and much of the San Joaquin Valley have registered Republicans and Democrats that are not as far apart ideologically, according to Assemblymember Jim Patterson, R-Fresno. I actually think that some of this vote in Fresno County is almost an aspirational kind of vote, which says, Im going to give this a chance, and maybe you know what, it just might get better, he said. Patterson also noted a discontent among voters who see prices rising at the gas pump or in the grocery store. The former Fresno mayor, who has termed out of the state Assemblys District 8, said the leaders of the Republican party could seize on the momentum by better connecting with voters in the region who have not historically voted for the GOP. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think its a mistake for people in public life to see constituents merely as a vote. I see the constituents I serve as people, families, different histories, aspirations, hopes and dreams and all of that, he said. Voters know if youre real. Voters know if you care, and I think its a terrible misjudgment politically as well. Still, others saw Valley voters support of Trump as an indictment on the Democratic Party. They did not speak to the needs in many communities, according to Sukaina Hussain, deputy director of strategic initiatives at the California Immigrant Policy Center. It wasnt enough for them to just say we are not Trump, right? Hussain said. Because they did not connect with peoples interests and respond to their needs and share a vision for a future that was inclusive for them. Fresno County voter turnout for the presidential election reverted back to the usual range of about 60% after a record 75% of registered voters participated in 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That return to the average likely tilted the vote in favor of Trump, according to Nate Monroe, a UC Merced professor of political science. Much of that contingency who stayed home were likely Harris voters. Monroe said the election also saw traditional Democratic supporters like national labor groups give less enthusiastic support for Harris or even stump for Trump, which may have also been reflected locally. The president of the Teamsters Union appeared at the Republican National Convention, for example, and the International Association of Fire Fighters declined to endorse a candidate this year though it had supported Biden in 2020. Monroe said the election may be a shifting of voting blocs more aligned by class than a shared ethnicity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im quite interested to see whether over the next four years, the two parties not just the Democrats but the Republicans think theyve sort of tapped into something with this victory in terms of the different kind of coalition of individuals that theyve put together to win, Monroe said. A broad coalition of immigrant rights, legal and community organizations during a press conference at the Federal Building in downtown Fresno on Nov. 8, 2024, to share their reactions to election outcomes as well as commitments to protect vulnerable communities. The coalition talked about their plans to continue seeking humane, inclusive, and permanent immigration solutions under the new administration. Pictured Jesus Martinez, executive director of Central Valley Immigrant Integration Collaborative. The Sacramento Bee contributed to this report. America needs a strong jerk As a female OB/GYN in Texas, I could have let plenty of issues drive my vote. I told many people during this campaign that you may not like President-elect Donald Trump and might even think him a jerk. But ultimately, he is our jerk. And that is what America needs a strong leader who will stand up to foreign powers and fight to protect our interests at home. (Nov. 8, 1A, Takeaways from Trumps march back to the White House) The presidents gender, race, ethnicity and personal beliefs should not matter. I am not opposed to a female president, but I thought Vice President Kamala Harris behavior was more appropriate for a giggly cheerleader or a grumpy old nurse than a world leader. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If we are going to have a female president, the parties need to put up a candidate whose gender is not an issue. - M. Mulder, Corpus Christi The main reason is obvious It bothers me to have to write this, but the main reason Donald Trump won this election is that our country has too many racist, sexist and undereducated people. The United States is not even in the Top 10 of the best educated countries in the world. Trump has stated, I love the poorly educated. (Aug. 22, 2019, 9A, Education is not the enemy) And we see now why he would want to get rid of the U.S. Department of Education. - Dora Gonzales, Arlington Still believing the 2020 Big Lie Heres a test for Mark Davis rosy view of the near future. (Nov. 8, 9A, Some things Democrats might like in Trumps second term) Will Donald Trump pardon the rioters convicted of felonies in the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol riot? If he does, will Davis still believe Trump is a defender of the Constitution and rule of law? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fact that Davis writes of a questionable 2020 result after four years of proof that the election results were valid shows you he is still in the thrall of the Big Lie. - Paul Park, Fort Worth Harris catered only to a minority What Democrats failed to see is that hating Donald Trump isnt enough to win an election. Their presidential candidate, Kamala Harris, catered to those who pushed for gender treatments and millions of people who are in the United States illegally. She failed to listen to those in her own party who were firmly against these issues. Those same issues drove Republicans to the polls. I hope the Democratic Party henceforth will listen to its majority, not a very, very small minority. I am hopeful to see common sense on both sides of the aisle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement - Bill Hodges, Colleyville The big reason they live in fear I live in fear was your scary Sunday front-page headline about illegal immigration. You know, they broke the law and are here illegally. - Bill McDaniel, Arlington Putting faith in promise breaker Trumpers, you won. You believed Donald Trumps lies, promises, racist statements and boasts, and now he is going to be your savior. Trump got what he wanted: the ability to retaliate against all those he deems his enemies. If any Trumpers expect their lives to become better or the border to be closed or all migrants deported, or if any of you Christian conservatives look forward to forcing all your ideals upon America, I have some oceanfront property in Arizona for sale. Since he lied to get elected, what makes you think he will keep his promises to you? - Cecelia Gilbreath, Fort Worth Abu Dhabi [UAE], November 17 (ANI/WAM): Since officially assuming the G20 presidency on 1st December 2023, Brazil has been focusing on strengthening cooperation among member states to find effective solutions to key global challenges. According to Brazil's vision, the future direction of the G20 aims to address pressing issues through dynamic initiatives, commitment to sustainable practices and inclusive dialogue, paving the way for shared achievements among G20 countries. Through its leadership of the G20, Brazil is working to develop innovative strategies and fruitful co-operation with the G20 countries to build a future characterised by shared achievements and global solidarity. The UAE's participation as a guest at the G20 Summit being held on 18-19 November in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, under the theme "Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet", is part of an exchange of shared visions with Brazil. This supports joint action to achieve future goals, especially as relations between the two friendly countries are witnessing steady development with their agreement in 2019 to elevate their bilateral relations to the level of strategic partnership. The UAE has declared its support for the priorities of the Brazilian G20 presidency, which include developing global governance, combating poverty and hunger, and addressing climate and energy challenges. Throughout this year, the UAE has been keen to participate in all G20-related ministerial meetings held in Brazil. These included the Foreign Ministers Meeting, the Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting, the Trade and Investment Ministers Meeting, the Labour and Employment Ministers Meeting, the Sherpa Meeting, and the G20 Tourism Ministers Meeting for 2024. The meeting of agriculture ministers, the meeting of energy ministers, the meeting of health ministers to discuss global health challenges and identify strategic priorities, the meetings of education ministers, and other meetings that came within the agenda of the group's work. In terms of bilateral relations, the UAE is one of Brazil's largest economic partners in the Middle East, with trade between the two countries reaching AED 13.28 billion in the first eight months of this year. Brazil is currently the UAE's largest trading partner in Latin America, and the second largest in the Americas after the United States. UAE investments are estimated at USD 5 billion with major Emirati companies such as Mubadala, DP World, Emirates Airlines, First Abu Dhabi Bank, Yahsat and others. The two countries are working to support joint initiatives aimed at achieving sustainable development. In this regard, the UAE government and the government of the Federative Republic of Brazil launched this year a strategic partnership in the areas of government modernisation, focusing on exchanging expertise, experiences and best practices in three areas of cooperation, including capacity building of government cadres, knowledge exchange in the field of government competitiveness, and sharing experiences in the economic fields. Brazil announced this year that it has joined the UAE Declaration on a Global Climate Finance Framework, launched by a group of world leaders at COP28, which saw the announcement of the historic UAE Consensus. It has raised and catalysed more than USD 85 billion in funding and launched 11 pledges and declarations. The endorsement of Brazil, which will host COP30 in Belem in 2025, was a reflection of the coordination between the agendas of the COP and G20 presidencies to provide affordable and concessional climate finance. On the other hand, the UAE has growing and developing relations with the G20 countries. Trade and investment relations between the two sides are witnessing a qualitative leap characterised by development and prosperity, as reflected in non-oil foreign trade, which recorded USD 196.1 billion during the first half of 2024, an increase of 4.1 per cent compared to the same period of the previous year. The G20 accounted for 51.6 per cent of the country's total non-oil foreign trade during that period. This growth was driven by a record increase in the UAE's non-oil exports, which rose by 11.5 per cent, with the UAE's non-oil trade with the G20 reaching USD 393.2 billion in 2023. With a growth of 15.3 per cent compared to 2022 and 54 per cent compared to 2019, this reflects the strength of the growing economic ties between the UAE and the world's 20 largest economies. The G20 consists of 19 countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkiye, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as the African Union and the European Union. G20 members represent about 85 per cent of global GDP and more than 75 per cent of global trade. (ANI/WAM) The housing crisis is pushing more and more people onto the streets. More than one in 10 Canadians report experiencing some form of homelessness in their lifetime. Forced to camp out, homeless people are increasingly victims of the not-in-my-backyard (NIMBY) phenomenon. Governments are dismantling encampments and some are willing to use the notwithstanding clause to circumvent court rulings on their actions as well as banning supervised drug consumption sites near day-care centres and schools. Now involuntary treatment is seemingly on their radar. The rise in involuntary treatments It is currently possible to forcibly treat someone anywhere in Canada. Provincial mental health legislation allows involuntary admission and involuntary treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Criteria vary from danger to a lack of capacity for consent and the need for treatment. But involuntary admission and treatment should only be used as a last resort. The rights of citizens to decide what happens to them is fundamental. According to the Supreme Court of Canada, the right to self-determination outweighs other interests, including what physicians may think is in the patients best interests. Psychiatric diagnoses or substance addictions have no legal impact on the right to consent to care. No data is systematically collected in Canada on the use of involuntary admission and treatment. Available studies suggest theres been a steady increase for more than a decade in the use of mental health legislation being used to detain people in Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia. This increase is similar to the situation in other western countries, suggesting that coercion is now an integral part of mental health treatment. Racialized and Indigenous people and people living in precarious conditions are over-represented among those forced into treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Research shows structural violations of the rights of people who are involuntarily admitted or treated. Class-action lawsuits have been won or are underway in several Canadian provinces for abuse of rights in psychiatric wards. Quebec will have to compensate people detained illegally. The New Brunswick ombudsperson concluded that patients at Restigouche Hospital Centre in Campbellton were victims of negligence, abuse and unacceptable treatment. British Columbia had to set up a service of rights advisers following the alarming findings of its ombudsperson in 2019. He reported a systematic failure by healthcare institutions to comply with the procedural safeguards required by the Mental Health Act, including consent to treatment, and by the Ministry of Health to adequately monitor institutions compliance with the procedures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet the B.C. government has announced that it will expand involuntary care to keep people and communities safe. Baseless arguments The arguments made by advocates for involuntary treatments arent supported by science. First, they often suggest homelessness is due to mental health issues or addiction, while research shows that financial difficulties are the primary cause of homelessness. Rising housing and living costs and low incomes are behind the unprecedented rise in homelessness. The situation was predictable. Economic inequality has been on the rise since the 1980s. Housing affordability has been declining over the same period. Homelessness is a structural problem, not an individual one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Second, involuntary treatment proponents make an association between mental health/addiction and public safety, suggesting that people with mental health problems or drug users are violent. Research has long since disproved this association in terms of mental health and the situation is nuanced for addiction. Nonetheless, involuntary treatment advocates argue that treating people against their will is necessary because they are unable to make decisions for themselves. This assumption is also disproven by research, which reveals a much more complex reality. In addition, risk assessment and incapacity evaluation tools are controversial and primarily target marginalized and racialized people. The focus on public safety also perpetuates prejudices and fear, which increases popular support for coercive measures like involuntary treatment. Nearly 70 per cent of Ontario residents, for example, support legislative changes to facilitate forced treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Third, some politicians argue that involuntary treatment works. Current data do not support a strong causal link between involuntary treatment and treatment adherence, relapse prevention or social functioning. On the contrary, they show adverse effects associated with coercion. Expanded access to community-based services, the use of experiential knowledge from the people concerned and a trauma-informed approach seem promising and more respectful of human rights. Changing the language Proponents of involuntary treatments, like Patrick Brown, the mayor of Brampton, Ont., claim the old approach isnt working. Because the term involuntary treatment has a negative connotation, they talk now of compassionate care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This change in terminology aligns with the CARE program implemented in California in 2022. Homeless people with certain psychiatric diagnoses can be subjected to involuntary treatment through a compassionate civil court process. CAREs compassionate approach is presented as a paradigm shift. But is it? Making it easier to confine homeless and marginalized people is, to say the least, not a new or original idea. Rather, its a very old approach dating back to the Middle Ages. Involuntary treatment is claimed to be necessary because people would not enter therapy voluntarily. Yet mental health and addiction services are difficult to access across Canada thanks to decades of under-funding. Its tough to justify violating peoples rights to engage them in involuntary treatments when voluntary treatments are inaccessible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Compassionate care, in fact, is nothing more than a smoke screen intended to hide coercion, structural inequalities and governments lack of social responsibility. Emmanuelle Bernheim, Professeure titulaire, Faculte de droit, titulaire de la Chaire de recherche du Canada en sante mentale et acces a la justice | Full Professor, Faculty of Law, Canada Research Chair on Mental Health and Access to Justice, LUniversite dOttawa/University of Ottawa This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Jeremy Clarkson may have slipped a disc but he is determined to join some 20,000 farmers on Tuesday when they stage one of the biggest protest rallies of Sir Keir Starmers premiership. The Clarksons Farm presenter told The Telegraph that he was barely moveable after a back injury but he hoped to get there somehow, though he will let the presence of thousands of farmers outside Parliament speak for itself. He does not plan to address the rally, which aims to persuade the Government to rethink its inheritance tax raid under which estates worth more than 1 million will incur a 20 per cent charge from April 2026 when passed down to the next generation of farmers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Buoyed by overwhelming support from the public in opinion polls, farmers hope that the scale of the rally will shake a Government that has so far refused to scrap its Budget plan. Ministers have vainly appealed to farmers to calm down and look at the financial facts. I urge people to look calmly at the detail and I think they will find that the vast majority will be fine, said Daniel Zeichner, the farming minister, on Sunday. Comments by Daniel Zeichner, the farming minister, have angered some farmers - James Manning/PA Archive However, there is no sign of farmers relenting. Indeed, there are threats by some that they could go on strike in a move that would threaten the UKs food supplies. Rather than calming the situation, the ministers comments appear to have become a red rag to the proverbial bull. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cllr Tim Taylor, leader of Pro Farmers United, who besieged the Welsh Labour conference addressed by Sir Keir at the weekend, told The Telegraph: He needs to look out. We are not calming down, we are escalating and will be escalating big time. Our industry will show Rachel Reeves and the crew who is in charge of the rural way of life and it isnt them. We will not be told by somebody from the city to calm down. We are going to deal with this and we are going to deal with this in the farmers way. Campaigners besieged the Welsh Labour conference this weekend - Freelance Photos North Wales The National Farmers Union (NFU) is publicly warning farmers not to go beyond lawful protests, saying they should not mount action that could empty supermarket shelves. NFU leaders are sensitive to the risk that the strong public support they have could evaporate if they start disrupting peoples lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Polls demonstrate that farmers not only have the publics backing in their fight against the Government but also hold a special place in the nations hearts so much so that Luke Tryl, executive director of More in Common, warned the tax raid could become the Chancellors own pasty tax. George Osbornes about-turn over VAT on pasties has gone down in Treasury folklore as a masterclass in how not to introduce a tax rise. I think this is the pasty tax of this Government but worse because it has got a genuine visible face behind it, said Mr Tryl. He said polling showed 57 per cent of the public supported exempting farmers from inheritance tax when passing down their estates, compared with 24 per cent against. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked to rate the positives versus the negatives of the Budget, farmers, pensioners and small businesses were identified as the biggest losers. They are three groups that I would advise that you dont want to end up on the wrong side of, said Mr Tryl. Then theres the other point that farmers do occupy a very special place in the public imagination. I did a focus group in Scunthorpe after the Budget where people said: Why would they go after the farmers? Polling shows the public set farmers very much apart from other businesses, neither seeing them as profit-driven or entrepreneurial but instead regarding them as having local community interests at heart, caring about the environment and nature, and being important to British culture and tradition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A total of 80 per cent of the public believe farmers benefit the country. Given the intensity of the passions involved, it is not surprising there is a whiff of class war and town versus country in the row. It surfaced last week when John McTernan, a former adviser to Tony Blair, said he was in favour of doing to the farmers what Margaret Thatcher did to the miners. He said Britain did not need small farmers. The claim was shot down by the Prime Minister, who said he totally disagreed with Mr McTernan. However, Tory MPs who have traditionally represented the rural vote say it illustrates a disconnect between farmers and Labour. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alicia Kearns, the Tory MP for Rutland and Stamford in the East Midlands, said: They feel absolutely betrayed, and they didnt see it coming, because Labour specifically ruled out and said that they would not do this. I think it does feel like David and Goliath for them. It is not clear how many farmers would join militant action against the Government - Freelance Photos North Wales Farmers and supporters gather outside Labours conference in Llandudno on Saturday - OLI SCARFF/AFP Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement John Glen, the former chief secretary to the Treasury, said it showed how frustrated farmers had become. Traditionally the vast majority of UK farmers have resisted direct action. The fact that significant numbers are planning such action demonstrates how upset and betrayed they feel, he said. It is not clear how far farmers will go and how many will join any militant action to protect their inheritance against the Treasury. Recent history from mainland Europe shows militancy can have a dramatic political impact in persuading governments to change their minds. In the Netherlands, more than 2,000 tractors created the worst jam in the nations history when they protested against new restrictions on farm emissions last November. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement French farmers forced Emmanuel Macron, the countrys president, to back down on new green goals within days of bringing Paris to a halt with their tractors. In Britain, nearly six in 10 of the public think politicians do not show farmers enough respect. Only five per cent believe they do. More than eight in 10 say they respect farmers, according to More in Common. However, in a cautionary note to any militant action, this adoration by Britons has to be weighed against the publics disdain for disruption, said Mr Tryl. If you are doing things where people cannot get to hospital appointments, you end up on the wrong side of public opinion very quickly, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far, like Clarkson, most farmers are hoping that their presence in London will speak for itself. But if the Government digs its heels in, more militant campaigners are likely to demand a test of how far the publics goodwill really goes. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Nov. 16WILKES-BARRE Mayor George Brown and Police Chief Joe Coffay this week announced the deployment of the Wilkes-Barre City Police Bicycle Patrol Unit. Brown said the development of the Wilkes-Bare Police Department's Bicycle Patrol Unit and the purchase of the e-bikes made possible through the Diamond City Partnership and the Luzerne Foundation was announced this past April. "Since then, my administration and I have been eagerly awaiting the implementation of the officers on their e-bikes," Mayor Brown said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said on Nov. 13, 2024, the city deployed the first six police officers of the newly formed Bicycle Patrol Unit. The six officers are fully equipped and trained in the areas of bicycle patrol tactics and operations, utilizing their newly acquired Police Patrol E-Bikes. The six officers were the first of 12 to be trained on an IPMBA E-Bike Training Course. The training course was administered by instructors from the Pennsylvania Capitol Police Department in Harrisburg. The deployment of the Bicycle Patrol Unit will include targeted patrol operations, based on specific crimes and geographical areas, including the downtown business district and substation areas with the city's residential neighborhoods. They will be deployed for special events, parades, festivals, runs/races and other indoor and outdoor community events. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The newly formed unit will be assigned to the Community Policing Division under the direction of Lieutenant James Sheridan and Sergeant Steve Lada and will undergo additional training in the near future. Mayor Brown and Chief Coffay said six additional police officers will be trained within the next two weeks, bringing the total complement of bicycle officers to twelve. Chief Joseph Coffay thanked Superintendent Joseph Jacob and Sergeant John Biesecker of the Pennsylvania Capitol Police for providing the training to the officers. "Their assistance in providing this training is a testament to the cooperative efforts that are accomplished every day between state and local law enforcement," said Chief Coffay. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, Coffay thanked the Diamond City Partnership and the Luzerne Foundation for their assistance in purchasing the bicycles. Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle. Lets fight picket fence of windmills The exhaustive review of the Horse Heaven Hill Wind Project performed by the EFSEC, with extensive Washington tax dollars, was largely ignored and overridden by Gov. Jay Inslee. He did so against local stakeholders desires otherwise, knowing that his activist general, current attorney general, soon to be Gov. Bob Ferguson, would not stand in his way and would follow in his footsteps. This project and his previous pet projects (cap and trade, etc.) would add to his environmental legacy, at no political cost to himself or his successor as the eastern part of the state plays a minor role in their election to office. I am a lifelong resident of the state. During the time that I lived and worked in King County, never did I think to myself that having two hundred windmills, each 200 feet tall, set up like a 25-mile picket fence on my commute from Lynnwood to SeaTac would improve my view of the Olympics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is exactly what we will endure as we locals drive from Kennewick to Prosser. Please join me in fighting to reinstitute the original visual impact mitigation recommendations made by the EFSEC by going to www.tricitiescares.org and donating to continue the legal fight. Patrick Weiher, Richland No rigged claim, just get to work As Democrats we just lost a fair presidential election. There was no cheating at the ballot box. The voting machines werent rigged. The poll workers were trained to be helpful but totally neutral, the Venezuelans did not send down laser beams in order to interfere, nor were there any other wild conspiracies happening. So, as Dems, well face the hard fact that we lost. We do not have the right to yell foul. We cannot storm the Capitol, kill four policemen and cause millions of dollars in clean-up damage, nor can we come up with fake electors in order to overturn a fair and free election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, well humbly accept defeat, do a little soul-searching, continue to engaged and continue to keep our integrity toward our Constitution and the rule of law, because as a fair and civilized society the peaceful transfer of power should always remain one of our most important hallmarks. Anna Bopp, Richland Election coverage slanted leftward Now that the elections are behind us, its time to evaluate the winners and losers. In my opinion, the biggest loser is the mainstream media. It was clear the media had a dog in the fight and slanted coverage accordingly. Positive Harris coverage was in excess of 85% while Trump negatives were above 90%, by my estimate. We were told not to believe our eyes, experiences and pocketbooks. On one side of the aisle, the campaign was centered on division. If we didnt support one candidate we were accused of being against women, racist and being anti-American. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mainstream media was all too anxious to echo these views. The majority of voters rejected these characterizations and mainstream media viewership/readership suffered accordingly. Unless the mainstream media learns from this election, its likely to join the institutions of the past. Donald Havre, Richland Missing signs not a mystery to him Last week I had no political signs in front of my house. Earlier this week a neighbor stopped by the house to let me know that someone had stolen the many Harris-Walz signs on our street. She had gotten replacements. Would I mind putting one up in front of our house. I agreed. Two days later, they are all now gone, again. This time, my neighbors Dan Newhouse sign is also gone. Today, I will get more to replace them and the neighbor who had the Newhouse sign will get me one, because signs that are stolen should multiply. In recent elections, stealing signs has been prevalent. Why do people steal political signs? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because they promote freedom of speech, as long as the speech supports their cause. Because they promote following the law, unless they can be sneaky and not get caught. Because they think that if there are too many opposition signs, that people might think their candidate is not going to win. Because any opposing view is un-American, so therefore evil and should be silenced. Because the Ten Commandments do not apply when (its not) convenient. Because they are aspiring bullies, and they can. All of the above Randy Ni, Richland Lawyers won in redistricting fight I strongly believe we should be asking more questions about the impact of the 14th Legislative District redistricting. With the exception of Gloria Mendoza, a conservative, every Latino candidate lost their race, even in cases where they raised more campaign funds. This redistricting effort did not reflect the will of the people, but rather the subjective opinions of self-endorsed experts. If a full inquiry were conducted, I believe it would reveal Latino advocacy groups grasping at straws, ultimately harming rather than helping the Latino vote. While these groups may be optimistic about the future, its crucial to examine whether their redistricting request was based on sound political strategy or whimsical assumptions about the electorate. In the end, it seems the only real winners were the lawyers involved. Adan Mendoza-Sandoval, Pasco People need to speak more loudly Part of the country is disappointed, and maybe even devastated today, and a small majority is happy, even elated. I am wondering if any might feel as I do. I think the American people on both sides were used by the campaigns and the media. It felt like they addressed us as incompetent and ignorant. The media was mostly dishonest in their reporting and twisting of words and comments and the cutting of statements made by the candidates to fit a narrative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I feel there is nowhere to go to retrieve the news without opinion and spin. We have to sift through it all. I think some have lost sight of the words of the people and for the people in favor of more selfish interests. I guess the people need to speak up more. Cleta Mayfield, Kennewick Paved paradise, put up parking lot As the song goes: You dont know what youve got till its gone. Robin Walker, Richland Failing to mention military choices The typical options presented to graduating high schoolers are: trade school, college or military service. Absent from the presented options is a very important opportunity pursue your education or trade while simultaneously pursing a career in the Army Reserve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a reminder, a person can join the active Army (i.e. full time, year-round service) or the Army Reserve usually consisting of one weekend a month and two weeks a year of service. The Army Reserves limited time commitment allows a person to simultaneously pursue other opportunities. The Army Reserve needs to fill all kinds of jobs. More than two-thirds of soldiers fill non-combat jobs offering support to the combat troops. Service in the military is gratifying in and of itself, but theres more. The Army offers scholarships to pay for college with guaranteed reserve duty. Service provides pay, subsidized health care, training and even years of service toward a pension (yes, a pension for a part-time job). Importantly, not only are work absences for military service protected by federal law, but our community vigorously supports its soldiers and their service. Consider using the Army Reserve as a means to leverage other opportunities for education and employment. Beau Ruff, Richland Nov. 16On Tuesday, 100-year-old U.S. Navy veteran Charles Emerson Wiseman was honored by being inducted into the Lawrence County Veterans Hall of Fame for not only his service as a radio operator on the submarine USS Puffer during World War II but his service to community after he left the service. "A true American hero," is what committee chairman Ltc. John Turner, U.S. Army retired, called Wiseman during his introduction. Turner said that Wiseman represents what it is to be a "servant leader," one who inspired to lead and focuses on improving on the growth and well-being of people and their community. He then went on to cite the many things Wiseman had done in his life including helping to organize the Waterloo-Symmes Valley Schools and Little League at Symmes Valley, which he served as an umpire for many years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was Sunday School teacher at Waterloo Baptist Church and now at Slab Fork Community Church. He is the father of six children and sent all of them to college while working at Ashland Oil. "He is a veteran, a patriot who has provided for the health, safety and welfare of others his entire life," Turner said. Wiseman was modest about his accomplishments. "I didn't win the war, but I was on the winning side," he joked. He also explained that military service was a long tradition in his family, going back to when one of his ancestors fought with General George Washington and three great-grandfathers who fought on both sides in the Civil War. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wiseman was 17 years old when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor and when he turned 18 he was drafted to be in the Army but instead he volunteered instead and joined the Navy. 'It was 82 years ago, last Monday," he said. He ended up serving on a submarine accidentally. He was at a meeting and he signed the paper thinking it was an attendance sheet but it turned out he had signed up for submarine duty. So, he trained to become a radio operator and learned Morse code. The USS Puffer was stationed in the Pacific Ocean and had nine patrol missions in which they assigned a variety of duties including intercepting Japanese cargo ships and sinking vessels. Being the radio operator, Wiseman was among the first to hear about the Japanese surrender in August 1945 and got to tell the Puffer's captain the momentous news. A 44-year-old woman is facing felony identity theft and false impersonation charges after two hospitals employed her Getty A nurse (stock image) A nurse (stock image) A woman has been arrested for allegedly impersonating a nurse and working in multiple California hospitals without a license. The Burbank Police Department arrested Amanda Leeann Porter on Nov. 7 after hospital staff at the city's Saint Joseph Medical Center reported she was impersonating a nurse while caring for patients, police said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police alleged that Porter, originally from Virginia, fraudulently applied for a job at the hospital and was hired. She cared for around 60 patients, per the statement, between April 8 and May 8, before staff realized she was impersonating a real registered nurse who did not live in California. "By the time Porter was terminated, she received two paychecks for the time she was fraudulently employed," police added. Burbank Police Department Amanda Leeann Porter's mugshot Amanda Leeann Porter's mugshot Porter, 44 who police said does not hold a nursing license is also accused of committing a similar crime at the Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital in Santa Clarita, north of Los Angeles. "During this investigation, detectives learned that Porter continued to obtain employment with various local hospitals using a variety of false identities, the police statement said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Porter had bonded out of custody from the L.A. County Sheriff's Department after being arrested in Santa Clarita, according to police. Porter faces charges of felony identity theft, felony false impersonation and felony grand theft. According to the L.A. County District Attorney's Office, Porter pleaded not guilty to all of the charges on Wednesday, Nov. 13. "Ms. Porters alleged actions are deeply troubling and egregious as she deceived patients and medical professionals alike, betraying the trust of those who rely on our medical community in their most vulnerable time of need," district attorney George Gascon said in a statement. "We acknowledge the profound distress that this situation may have caused those who were treated by the defendant," the statement continued. "Our office will work relentlessly to hold this individual accountable and ensure that justice is served." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Los Angeles Times reported that Porter is also on federal probation for a fraud violation in Virginia, and that a woman named Amanda Porter-Eley pleaded guilty to impersonating a nurse and committing bank fraud in the state. The outlet reported that Burbank police would not confirm whether Amanda Leeann Porter and Amanda Porter-Eley were the same person, but that their ages match and prior court filings have used both names. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Porter-Eley was found guilty of impersonating a nurse in Virginia and worked for six months as a nursing supervisor without a license, the U.S. Department of Justice said, per the Times. The woman was accused of using the nurse's identity from September 2015 to 2016 to open bank accounts and take out loans for cash, services and goods worth around $450,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Burbank police said that Porter is being held without bail at the L.A. County Central Regional Detention Facility in Lynwood. Authorities are now seeking more information about Porters' case, with Burbank police alleging that she "may have committed additional similar offenses in the Southern California area during the past year." Anyone with further information is asked to contact local law enforcement or Burbank detectives at (818) 238-3210. A woman is facing OUI charges are crashing into a parked police cruiser on Cape Cod. According to police, on Saturday, November 16 a little after 1 a.m., Barnstable Police officers were called to a home on Lincoln Road in Hyannis for a silent 911 call. While officers were investigating the incident, a sedan driven by Gabriella Prodelik, 20, of Hyannis collided with an unoccupied police cruiser parked on the street. Prodelik her 24-year-old passenger sustained injuries in the crash and was transported to Cape Cod Hospital Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening, police said. Prodelik was cited on charges including operating under the influence of intoxicating liquor, negligent operation, unlicensed operation, and speeding. Prodelik is scheduled to be summonsed into Barnstable District Court for arraignment on these charges. The incident remains under investigation by the Barnstable Police Department. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) A woman from Brighton was hospitalized Saturday afternoon after police said a man forcefully pulled her from her car and took off in it. According to the Rochester Police Department, the 36-year-old victim was parked in a lot on Lake Avenue when a man punched her in the face, shoved her out of the car and then drove off in it. This happened around noon. The woman was taken to the hospital to be treated for what were described as minor facial injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greece man dies after crashing motorcycle in Rochester The 2012 Kia Forte was later found abandoned on Birr Street in Rochester, officers said. No one was arrested. No other information was shared by authorities. As the investigation continues, police ask anyone with information to call 911. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst. BELGRADE, Serbia (AP) A young woman who was injured in a deadly roof collapse in Serbia this month has died, bringing the death toll to 15, doctors said on Sunday. The concrete outer roof on a railway station building in the northern city of Novi Sad suddenly fell on Nov. 1, crashing on the people sitting or standing below. Initially 14 people died and three were severely injured. The fatal incident has triggered a wave of protests against the populist authorities. Many in Serbia believe rampant corruption led to sloppy renovation work and consequently to the roof collapse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The station was originally built in 1964 and renovated twice in recent years as part of a wider agreement with Chinese state companies. Protesters in Novi Sad on Sunday blocked an intersection outside the railway station for several hours, saying they won't give up until those responsible for the tragedy are punished. Activists put up a huge poster of a bleeding white dove and red handprints a message to the populist authorities that they have blood on their hands. People died because of corruption, because you (the government) are irresponsible, because you won't take responsibility, actress and activist Jelena Stupljanin told the crowd, who chanted jail in response. We will not be silenced. Protesters are also demanding the release of several activists who were detained at a previous rally in Novi Sad. That rally earlier this month turned violent after masked hooligans threw flares and rocks at the Novi Sad City Hall building. Opposition activists said the riots were staged to discredit peaceful protest marches. The authorities have promised a thorough investigation and Serbia's construction minister has resigned but no one has been arrested and no charges have been raised. A woman who was shot outside of a South Carolina Bojangles fast food restaurant has died in the hospital, the Lexington County Coroners Office announced. Now police are looking for her killer. Around 10 a.m. on Thursday, officers responded at an emergency call of a shooting at the Bojangles at 152 Harbison Boulevard. A woman was found with a gunshot wound to the upper body and taken to a local hospital. Coroner Margaret Fisher has identified her as 40-year-old Antoinette Michelle Hammonds-Colon of Columbia. Hammonds-Colon was pronounced dead on Friday. An autopsy is scheduled for Nov. 18 at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No arrests have been made in the shooting, which police called isolated, but the Columbia Police Department has arrest warrants for 23-year-old JaQuivian Kennerly. The department said he faces several charges, including murder. Police are asking the public to contact Crimestoppers if they have information regarding his whereabouts. No other injuries were reported in Thursdays shooting, but police said they believe the gunfire stemmed from an on-going dispute between two groups. The Columbia Police Department and the Lexington County Coroners Office are continuing to investigate. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Sunday. The two leaders held a meeting at the President's House in Abuja. Earlier, Tinubu also expressed his eagerness to welcome Prime Minister Modi on his historic first visit to Nigeria. Sharing a post on X, the Nigerian President wrote, "I look forward to welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his first visit to Nigeria, which is also the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to our dear country since 2007. Our bilateral discussions will seek to expand the strategic partnership between both countries and enhance cooperation in critical sectors. Welcome to Nigeria, PM Modi @narendramodi." During the meeting, PM Modi and President Tinubu will seek to strengthen Nigeria's and India's ties further during their bilateral discussions. Both leaders will exchange signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to enhance collaboration in critical sectors, the Presidency of Nigeria said in a statement. Notably, PM Modi on Sunday arrived in Nigeria on the first leg of his three-nation tour. Upon his arrival, PM Modi was warmly welcomed by Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, Minister for Federal Capital Territory in Abuja, the capital city of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Wike presented PM Modi with the 'Key to the City' of Abuja. The key symbolises the trust and honour bestowed on the PM by the people of Nigeria. PM Modi is on a three-nation tour to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana scheduled from November 17 to November 21. He issued a statement indicating his first stop in Nigeria, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's invitation, aimed at strengthening strategic ties between both countries. "At the invitation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this will be my first visit to Nigeria, which is our close partner in the West African region. My visit will be an opportunity to build upon our Strategic Partnership that is based on shared belief in democracy and pluralism. I am also eagerly looking forward to meeting the Indian community and friends from Nigeria who have sent me warm welcome messages in Hindi," the statement said. India and Nigeria enjoy warm, friendly, and deep-rooted bilateral relations. The visit by PM Modi is the first visit by a Prime Minister of India to Nigeria in 17 years. India is emerging as a development partner of Nigeria on two fronts - by offering developmental assistance through concessional loans and by offering capacity-building training programmes. India and Nigeria have been strategic partners since 2007 with growing economic, energy and defence collaboration. More than 200 Indian companies have invested over USD 27 billion in important sectors in Nigeria. India and Nigeria also share a strong development cooperation partnership. (ANI) SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) With a powerful mission to set a new foundation for women today, the Women Who Lead Symposium, held on Saturday, honored and celebrated women across Georgia for their contributions to the marketplaces and the communities they serve. Trailblazers, business greats, mothers, daughters and a few inspiring men attended the event that saluted women for their excellence. Im excited to be honoring and saluting incredible women today, empowering incredible women to take charge of the boardroom, the classrooms and their communities, so were excited about it., said Robert Gould, the architect of the bold celebration and founder of the Creative Exchange Network. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gould shined a light on more than 25 women, including State Representative Edna Jackson, who was honored at the event with the Lifetime Achievement Award. What I understand is women start the trajectory of life, and then they need men, said Gould. We need to support, to be the wind behind continuing life in making this world an incredible place. So, women have a special place in my heart, and I understand that when we empower women, we empower the world. Women Who Lead Symposium held on Saturday honored and celebrated women across the Southeast Region for their contributions to the marketplaces and the communities they serve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The event was held at the Perry Lane Hotel and 2023 Honoree, WSAVs Tina Tyus-Shaw, served as the empowerment speaker. Innovation Labs, which promotes leadership development, entrepreneurship and wellness rounded out the day. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. By Jake Spring and Lisandra Paraguassu RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) -Diplomatic tensions over global warming spilled over into the G20 summit negotiations in Brazil this week, with sources saying the 20 major economies reached a fragile consensus on climate finance that had eluded U.N. talks in Azerbaijan. Heads of state arrived in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday for the G20 summit and will spend Monday and Tuesday addressing issues from poverty and hunger to the reform of global institutions. The talks must now also grapple with how to address escalating violence in Ukraine after a deadly Russian airstrike on Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, the ongoing U.N. climate talks have thrown a spotlight on their efforts to tackle global warming. While the COP29 summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, is tasked with agreeing a goal to mobilize hundreds of billions of dollars for climate, leaders of the Group of 20 major economies half a world away in Rio are holding the purse strings. G20 countries account for 85% of the world's economy and are the largest contributors to multilateral development banks helping to steer climate finance. "The spotlight is naturally on the G20. They account for 80 percent of global emissions," U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres told reporters in Rio de Janeiro. He expressed concern about the state of the COP29 talks in Baku and called on G20 leaders to do more to fight climate change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Now is the time for leadership by example from the world's largest economies and emitters," Guterres said. U.N. climate chief Simon Stiell wrote a letter to G20 leaders on Saturday imploring them to act on climate finance, including boosting grants for developing nations and advancing reforms of multilateral development banks. However, the same fights that have plagued COP29 since it began last week became central to G20 negotiations, according to diplomats close to the Rio talks. COP29 must set a new goal for how much financing should be directed from developed countries, multilateral banks and the private sector to developing nations. Economists told the summit it should be at least $1 trillion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wealthy countries, especially in Europe, have been saying that an ambitious goal can only be agreed if they expand the base of contributors to include some of the richer developing nations, such as China and major Middle Eastern oil producers. On Saturday, discussions of a G20 joint statement in Rio snagged on the same issue, with European nations pushing for more countries to contribute and developing countries such as Brazil pushing back, diplomats close to the talks told Reuters. But early Sunday morning, negotiators agreed to a text mentioning developing nations' voluntary contributions to climate finance, stopping short of calling them obligations, according to two diplomats. The breakthrough remains overshadowed by the return to power of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who is reportedly preparing to again pull the United States out of the Paris climate agreement. His election throws into doubt how much money the world can muster to address climate change, possibly without the support of the world's largest economy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump is planning to roll back landmark climate legislation passed by outgoing President Joe Biden, who visited the Amazon rainforest when he made a stop there on Sunday on his way to Rio. The success of not only COP29 but also the next U.N. climate summit, COP30 hosted in Brazil next year, hinges on an ambitious deal on climate finance. A centerpiece of Brazil's COP30 strategy is "Mission 1.5," a drive to keep alive the Paris Agreement target of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. The U.N. estimates that current national targets would cause temperatures to rise by at least 2.6 degrees C. Developing countries argue they can only raise their targets for emissions reductions if rich nations, who are the main culprits for climate change, foot the bill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is technically possible to meet the goal of 1.5 degrees Celsius, but only if a G20-led, massive mobilization to cut all greenhouse gas emissions ... is achieved," said Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis at COP29 last week. (Reporting by Jake Spring and Lisandra Paraguassu in Rio de Janeiro; Additional reporting by William James, Nailia Bagirova and Olesya Astakhova in Baku; Editing by Brad Haynes and Diane Craft) We rehired an incompetent man You own a store. You need a manager. A man applies. You review his credentials. However, you then learn he sexually assaulted a woman. But that was years ago, so this does not dissuade you. And you think he will make you lots of money. Then you discover that he engaged in financial fraud. Shortly thereafter, you learn he is a convicted felon. Still, you shrug, because you think he will make money for you. You then remember that a few years back, he incited a riot in the street outside the store that threatened the very foundations of the establishment. Oh well, you say, that was years ago, and he will make me money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You also have a problem with the stores heating system that threatens to ruin most of the stores products. Without prompt attention, it will only grow worse. The man insists, however, there is nothing wrong with the heating system and wont be doing anything about it. Would you hire this person to run your store? What about something more important like running the country? Donald Dowie, Ocean Shores Washington should embrace free college I just graduated with a B.A in Law and Policy with a minor in Latino Studies from UW Tacoma. My parents have taught me that going to school is important to achieve a future. Ive been motivated to go to school because I believe school is a mechanism that can be used to make a change in my Hispanic/Latino community. But school can be expensive. With the help of the free resources that exist in Washington State to pay for college, I was able to receive a B.A. But Im not sure if these resources will continue to exist in the future, which is why I support free college for future college students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I support free college because I believe every student deserves to have access to a free education because they are the future of the state. In Promise for Whom? Denisa Gandara and Ami Li find that free community college programs are associated with large percent increases in enrollments of Black and Hispanic students. It shows that a Washington Promise program will not just benefit the students but also the economy of the state. Pass free college legislation now! Perla Vazquez, Tacoma Pardon all the turkeys Later this month, President Biden will pardon two turkeys at the White House, a symbolic gesture of mercy. Yet, every year in the U.S., over 224 million turkeys endure a far grimmer fate. These gentle birds are raised in overcrowded sheds thick with toxic fumes, their beaks and toes clipped to prevent stress-related aggression. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At just 16 weeks, they are slaughtered throats slit, bodies dumped into boiling water for feather removal. Meanwhile, their meat, laden with cholesterol and saturated fat, poses health risks to consumers. But theres promising news: U.S. turkey production has declined significantly as more Americans embrace plant-based options. This Thanksgiving, lets celebrate our good fortune with a cruelty-free meal plant-based roasts, seasonal vegetables, fruit, and grains. An internet search for vegan Thanksgiving offers countless delicious, compassionate recipes. Tad Kerry, Tacoma The wreck of a US warship sunk in a World War II battle dubbed one of the bravest ever stands by a US Navy vessel has been found in the depths of the Pacific, US and Australian officials announced Monday. Known as the dancing mouse due to its slippery movements in that final, fatal fight with the Imperial Japanese Navy, the destroyer USS Edsall went down off the coast of Australia in 1942, under the command of Lt. Joshua Nix. Joshua Nix and his crew fought valiantly, evading 1,400 shells from Japanese battleships and cruisers before being attacked by 26 carrier dive bombers, taking only one fatal hit, US Ambassador to Australia Caroline Kennedy said Monday in announcing the find of the Edsalls wreck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking alongside Kennedy, Australias chief of navy, Vice Adm. Mark Hammond, said the wreck was found with the help of advanced hydrographic survey capabilities aboard naval support ship MV Stoker. Hammond also praised the Edsall crew for fighting a string of battles to help protect Australia during the early days of World War II before the vessel sunk on March 1, 1942. On that day, a Japanese carrier-based plane spotted the US destroyer around 200 miles south-southeast of Christmas Island, according to an account of the Edsalls final battle on the website of the US Naval History and Heritage Command (NHHC). Japanese Vice Adm. Chuichi Nagumo was reportedly incensed that the US warship was spotted within 16 miles of his forces and ordered them immediately to intercept, according to the NHHC account by director Samuel Cox. USS EDSALL (DD-219), 1920-42. - Naval History and Heritage Command The old US destroyer Edsall was commissioned in 1920 and its 4-inch guns would prove to be no match for the newer Japanese fleet with bigger guns and dozens of aircraft carrying 500-pound bombs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nixs position was hopeless from the moment Edsall was sighted, Cox wrote. But the captain of the US destroyer didnt give up. As a last gesture of defiance, like the famous cartoon of the little mouse flipping the bird at a huge screaming eagle, Lieutenant Nix chose to make a fight of it, Cox wrote. He had the destroyer lay a smokescreen, execute course changes and change speeds to evade the Japanese shells while launching torpedoes that narrowly missed one Japanese warship. After seeing Edsall evade more than a thousand 14-inch and 8-inch shells, Japanese commanders ordered dozens of dive bombers from their three aircraft carriers to strike, according to Coxs account, which he wrote was derived from Japanese sources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least one hit Edsall, and the ship began to lose its ability to maneuver. With fires raging and the ship settling and losing way, Lieutenant Nix pointed the bow of Edsall at the Japanese surface ships in his last act of defiance and ordered ship abandoned, Cox wrote. The Japanese warships then turned their big guns on the disabled destroyer, finally sinking it. But Nixs maneuvers drew the respect of Japanese witnesses, Cox wrote. According to a Japanese observer, Edsall performed like a Japanese dancing mouse (a popular domesticated pet in Japan, also known as waltzing mice or whirler for its manic and bizarre movements), the US naval historian wrote. Dont give up the ship Following the announcement of the wrecks discovery, officials were effusive in their praise of Nix. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The commanding officer of Edsall lived up to the U.S. Navy tenet, Dont give up the ship, even when faced with overwhelming odds, the US chief of naval operations, Adm. Lisa Franchetti, said in a statement Monday. The wreck of this ship is a hallowed site, serving as a marker for the 185 U.S. Navy personnel and 31 U.S. Army Air Force pilots aboard at the time, almost all of whom were lost when Edsall succumbed to her battle damage. While most of those aboard the Edsall died at sea that day, some were rescued from the water by the Japanese and taken prisoner. After the wars end, six decapitated bodies found in graves on Celebes Island (now Sulawesi, Indonesia) were identified as those of Edsall crew members. Five more bodies found in the graves were not identified but were believed to be those of US pilots who had been aboard the ship, according to Coxs account. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He called the story of the Edsall one of the most gallant and valorous actions in the history of the U.S. Navy. Historian and author Trent Hone cited Edsalls ultimate battle as the most courageous independent action by a US Navy surface ship in combat, in a 2020 survey by the US Naval Institutes Proceedings magazine. Franchetti said Monday that the story of the Edsall, both in its defense of Australia in 1942 and in the cooperation shown by the two allies in finding the wreck this year, shows the strength of that trans-Pacific alliance. The discovery highlighted the current AUKUS partnership, between the US, Australia and the United Kingdom, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A key component of AUKUS is the development of the most cutting-edge underwater technologies of the type that enabled the discovery of Edsall in the vastness of the Indian Ocean, something not possible just a few years ago, Franchetti said. That ability helps ensure our collective capability to preserve the peace, respond in crisis, and win decisively in war, if called, she added. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com (Bloomberg) -- Xi Jinping used his final meeting with Joe Biden to send a clear message to Donald Trump: China wants to be friends, but is ready for a fight if necessary. Most Read from Bloomberg Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With Biden set to leave the White House in January, Chinas leader took Saturdays meeting as a chance to spell out his approach toward Trump. That entails finding a way for the worlds two biggest economies to get along, with Xi emphasizing that the US and China shouldnt fight a new Cold War, and a conflict between them isnt inevitable. But he followed that up by reiterating Chinas four red lines, signaling that Trump must avoid any moves to undermine the Communist Partys grip on power, push the nation toward democracy, contain its economic rise or encourage independence in Taiwan. Chinese state media including CCTV seized on the reference to four red lines, saying it set the agenda for the future relationship. They must not be challenged, Xi said in a statement after the meeting with Biden in Lima, Peru, where both leaders attended the APEC summit. These are the most important guardrails and safety nets for China-US relations. The lengthy statement from Xi after what was essentially a farewell chat with an outgoing US president shows that China is hoping for the best while preparing for the worst. Trump has threatened to hit Beijing with tariffs of 60%, and tapped several hardliners on China to lead his foreign policy team, including Marco Rubio as secretary of state and Mike Waltz as national security advisor suggesting no sensitive areas are off limits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its as if Xi is trying to lock in the current state of US-China relations, even as Biden is powerless to stop Trump from disrupting the status quo, said Neil Thomas, a fellow for Chinese politics at the Asia Society Policy Institutes Center for China Analysis. That suggests Beijing is seriously worried about instability after the Trump administration takes office. While Trump has signaled major trade disruptions ahead, hes also raised questions about just how much the US should support Taiwan and grown closer to Elon Musk, the chief executive officer of Tesla Inc., who has substantial business interests in China. In 2023, Musk said Taiwan is an integral part of China, drawing a rebuke from the islands leaders. It remains unclear if the tariff threat is a jumping-off point for negotiations similar to those in Trumps first term, or if the Republican has grown more ideological in seeking to thwart a top US adversary. At the APEC summit, JPMorgan Chase & Co. Chief Executive Officer Jamie Dimon saw Trumps warnings on tariffs as a way to get governments to the negotiating table and urged attendees to read the president-elects book The Art of the Deal. In Peru, Xi sought to shore up ties with a range of US allies and partners, and hes set to hold talks with more of them at the Group of 20 meeting starting Monday in Brazil. In a meeting with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, Xi called for the nations to deepen exchanges and maintain stability, a sign of his displeasure with North Koreas move to send troops to help Russias war in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Xis remarks after meeting Biden suggested China was open to talks on economic matters that didnt touch his no-go areas perhaps none bigger than Taiwan, the island democracy that Beijing has threatened to take by force if necessary. After the talks with Biden, Xi for the first time called out Taiwans leader by name, saying that the US should see clearly the true nature of Lai Ching-te in seeking independence. On the flashpoints in the South China Sea, Xi warned the US to stay out of its territorial disputes with the Philippines, a US treaty ally, urging Biden not to aid any impulsion for provocations even though he didnt name the Southeast Asian country. Xi also criticized the US policy of a small yard and high fence, using a term coined by US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan to describe the US efforts to ensure China cant access cutting-edge technology. On his warnings to avoid touching the issues of human rights and democracy, it was unclear exactly what Xi meant. But hes long been concerned about what he sees as possible US attempts to foment dissent, and growing economic distress in China risks fueling anger at his government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China often gives vague warnings, and they dont necessarily mean any particular action will trigger a war. In a briefing after the meeting, Sullivan said those types of statements were typical of Beijing. The message of choose wisely, not wrongly is a pretty standard, fair PRC statement that theyve made repeatedly over the course of these past four years, the four years before that, and so on, Sullivan said. And thats especially been true where the relationship has taken on a more competitive dynamic. A White House readout of the meeting said the two leaders stressed the importance of responsibly managing competitive aspects of the relationship as well as preventing conflict and keeping up communication. Whatever Xi intends, he sought to characterize the US position toward China more than in the past. The Chinese readout included six nos, compared with four after Xi met Biden in Bali: The United States does not seek a new Cold War, it does not seek to change Chinas system, its alliances are not targeted against China, it does not support Taiwan independence, it does not seek conflict with China, and it does not see its Taiwan policy as a way to compete with China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The big question now is whether Trump and his cabinet members will agree thats indeed the case. --With assistance from Lucille Liu. (Updates with expert comment in seventh paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. SALEM, W.Va. (WBOY) The Ye Olde Salem West Virginias Farmers Market hosted its annual free community meal at city hall on Saturday. The meal featured slow-cooked pork sandwiches, smoked beans, coleslaw, potato salad, a fruit cup, a dessert and a drink. Members of the market said that throughout the year, the market takes donations, which allows it to provide a meal for the community to gather in fellowship with one another. Member of the Board of Directors with Ye Olde Salem West Virginias Farmers Market Robert Winger discussed how grateful he was for the donations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The community supported us all year as well and it was made part by the donations of all the donations of all the people in the community that came out to the markets, free will donations pretty much made it all possible, and everything here was provided by those donations that the community put back into the market. First class graduates from WVJC-Mon Health nursing program Community members like Geoffrey Steele said that the free meal event helps build back the sense of community while getting back to Salems small hometown roots, and that its important for organizations like the market and the citys events to work together for the betterment of the residents of Salem. Its very important for communities to get together so that we know and have that comradery with each other, and that we can build those relationships back to successful neighborhood watches, and looking out for each other, and really caring about each other, and getting back to those values, and what makes small towns really special, Steele said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starting on Dec. 6, the Ye Olde Salem WVs Farmers Market will host its Winter market from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Salem City Hall, with a showcase of vendors. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com. HONOLULU (KHON2) Youth from across Hawaii will gather at the State Capitol this Saturday, November 16, to engage in a critical discussion about the future of climate policy in the state. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You The annual Climate Future Forum, scheduled from 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., will bring together young people and lawmakers to review and discuss the priorities identified during the morning session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The forum provides an opportunity for Hawaiis youth to voice their concerns and ideas regarding climate change, sustainability, and the states environmental policies. Celebrate 2nd annual Kimchi Day Festival at Makiki Park This years event will focus on the priorities for Hawaiis climate future, with attendees learning more about the solutions and policies discussed earlier in the day. The public is invited to attend the afternoon session, where they can learn about the outcomes of the morning discussions and hear from youth leaders and policymakers. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more information visit their website at ClimateFutureHawaii.org Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) A Youngstown State University football player is contributing to the community on and off the field by partnering with the Rich Center for Autism. Wide receiver Max Tomczak was wearing custom-made puzzle-piece cleats during Saturdays final home game. He was repping the Rich Center while helping bring home a win against Northern Iowa. His goal with the partnership is to boost awareness of autism and its impact on kids and their families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zach Zerdea contributed to this report. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. Ukrainian air defences intercepted most of the 120 missiles and 90 drones launched by Russian forces overnight, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Telegram on Sunday. "Our air defences destroyed more than 140 aerial targets," the Ukrainian president posted. "Unfortunately, there is damage to buildings from hits and falling debris," he added. Zelensky said the Russian attacks had primarily targeted energy infrastructure across the country, and power outages had resulted in certain areas. Clean-up work was under way, he said. Zelensky expressed his condolences to the families of two women who were killed in the southern city of Mykolaiv during attack. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned a "massive combined attack" launched by Russian forces, targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure, resulting in damaged facilities, power outages, and loss of life. Zelenskyy further said that the assault occurred overnight and into the morning, and involved a barrage of approximately 120 missiles and 90 drones, including Shaheds, Zircons, Iskanders, and Kinzhals. Sharing a post on X, Zelenskyy wrote, "A massive combined attack targeted all regions of Ukraine. Overnight and this morning, Russian terrorists used various types of drones, including Shaheds, as well as cruise, ballistic, and aeroballistic missiles--Zircons, Iskanders, and Kinzhals. In total, approximately 120 missiles and 90 drones were launched. Our air defense forces destroyed over 140 aerial targets." "The enemy's target was our energy infrastructure across Ukraine. Unfortunately, some facilities sustained damage from direct hits and falling debris. In Mykolaiv, a drone attack killed two people and injured six others, including two children," the post added. Zelenskyy expressed his condolences to the families of the victims, and acknowledged the ongoing challenges, noting that some areas remain without power. "My deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims. As of now, some areas remain without power, but all necessary forces are working to mitigate the consequences and restore the infrastructure. We are grateful to all our air defense units that participated in repelling this attack: anti-aircraft missile forces, our aviation -- pilots of F16s, Su aircraft, and MiGs, mobile fire groups, and electronic warfare units--all worked together in an organized and coordinated manner. I thank them for their reliable protection," Zelesnkyy said. Meanwhile, a day earlier, Zelenskyy expressed optimism that US President-elect Donald Trump's administration could expedite the resolution of the ongoing war with Russia. Zelenskyy made the remarks during an interview with public broadcaster Suspilne, where he reflected on US-Ukraine relations and past discussions with Trump regarding the conflict, which began in 2022, Anadolu reported. Zelenskyy emphasised the alignment of Ukraine's position with Trump, stating, "He (Trump) has heard the basis on which we stand. I have not heard anything against our position." Addressing whether Trump had urged Ukraine to negotiate with Russia, Zelenskyy clarified, "We are an independent country. And we, during this war, both our people and I, personally, are in negotiations with the United States, with both Trump and Biden and with European leaders, proved that the 'sit and listen' rhetoric doesn't work with us." The Ukrainian leader shared his belief that the conflict could end sooner under Trump's leadership, citing the administration's pledge to prioritise swift resolution, reported Anadolu. "It is very important for us to have a just peace, so that we do not feel that we have lost our best people because of the injustice that has been imposed on us. The war will end, but there is no exact date. Certainly, with the policies of the team that will now lead the White House, the war will end sooner. This is their approach, their pledge to their public, and it is also very important to them," he added. (ANI) KYIV, Ukraine (AP) A Russian strike on a nine-story building in the city of Sumy in northern Ukraine killed eight people and wounded dozens, an official said Sunday, as Russia launched a massive drone and missile attack described by officials as the largest in recent months. Among the eight killed in Sumy, 40 kilometers (24 miles) from the border with Russia, were two children, said Ukraines Minister of Internal Affairs Ihor Klymenko. More than 400 people were evacuated from the building. The rescuers were checking every apartment looking for people who might be still in the damaged building. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every life destroyed by Russia is a big tragedy, said Klymenko. The drone and missile attack, which targeted Ukraine's energy infrastructure, came as fears are mounting about Moscows intentions to devastate Ukraine's power generation capacity ahead of the winter. Also Sunday, President Joe Biden authorized for the first time the use of U.S.-supplied long-range missiles by Ukraine to strike inside Russia, after extensive lobbying by Ukrainian officials. The weapons are likely to be used in response to North Korea's decision to send thousands of troops to support Russia in the Kursk region where Ukraine mounted a military incursion over the summer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is the second time the U.S. has permitted the use of Western weapons inside Russian territory within limits after permitting the use of HIMARS systems, a shorter-range weapon, to stem Russia's advance in Kharkiv region in May. The first reaction from Ukraine to the long-awaited decision from the U.S. was notably restrained. Today, much is being said in the media about us receiving permission for the relevant actions. But strikes are not made with words. Such things are not announced. The missiles will speak for themselves, said Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in his nightly video address. Earlier, Zelenskyy said that Russia had launched a total of 120 missiles and 90 drones in a large-scale attack across Ukraine. Various types of drones were deployed, he said, including Iranian-made Shaheds, as well as cruise, ballistic and aircraft-launched ballistic missiles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian defenses shot down 144 out of a total of 210 air targets, Ukraine's air force reported later on Sunday. The enemys target was our energy infrastructure throughout Ukraine. Unfortunately, there is damage to objects from hits and falling debris. In Mykolaiv, as a result of a drone attack, two people were killed and six others were injured, including two children," Zelenskyy said. Two more people were killed in the Odesa region, where the attack damaged energy infrastructure and disrupted power and water supplies, said local Gov. Oleh Kiper. Both victims were employees of Ukraine's state-owned power grid operator, Ukrenergo, the company said hours later. The combined drone and missile attack was the most powerful in three months, according to the head of Kyivs City Military Administration, Serhii Popko. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One person was injured after the roof of a five-story residential building caught fire in Kyivs historic center, according to Popko. A thermal power plant operated by private energy company DTEK was seriously damaged, the company said. Russian strikes have hammered Ukraines power infrastructure since Moscows all-out invasion of its neighbor in February 2022, prompting repeated emergency power shutdowns and nationwide rolling blackouts. Ukrainian officials have routinely urged Western allies to bolster the countrys air defenses to counter assaults and allow for repairs. Explosions were heard across Ukraine on Sunday, including in the capital, Kyiv, the key southern port of Odesa, as well as the countrys west and central regions, according to local reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The operational command of Polands armed forces wrote on X that Polish and allied aircraft, including fighter jets, have been mobilized in Polish airspace because of the massive Russian attack on neighboring Ukraine. The steps were aimed to provide safety in Poland's border areas, it said. Russias Defense Ministry on Sunday acknowledged carrying out a mass missile and drone attack on critical energy infrastructure in Ukraine, but claimed all targeted facilities were tied to Kyivs military industry. Although Ukraines nuclear plants were not directly impacted, several electrical substations on which they depend suffered further damage, the U.N.s nuclear energy watchdog said in a statement Sunday. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, only two of Ukraines nine operational reactors continue to generate power at full capacity. Ukrainian drones strike Russia Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A local journalist died Sunday as Ukrainian drones struck Russia's embattled Kursk region, its Gov. Aleksei Smirnov reported. Moscows forces have for months strained to dislodge Ukrainian troops from the southern province after a bold incursion in August that constituted the largest attack on Russia since World War II and saw battle-hardened Ukrainian units swiftly take hundreds of square miles (kilometers) of territory. In Russias Belgorod province, near Ukraine, a man died on the spot after a Ukrainian drone dropped explosives on his car, local Gov. Vyacheslav Gladkov reported. Another Ukrainian drone on Sunday targeted a drone factory in Izhevsk, deep inside Russia, according to anti-Kremlin Russian news channels on the Telegram messaging app. The regional leader, Aleksandr Brechalov, reported that a drone exploded near a factory in the city, blowing out windows but causing no serious damage. A man was briefly hospitalized with a head injury, Brechalov said. ___ Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine New Delhi: Calling for accountability in digital media to combat fake news and safeguard democracy, Union Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Saturday that internet platforms must come up with solutions that account for the impact their systems have on our society. Speaking at an event by the Press Council of India (PCI) here to mark the 'National Press Day 2024', the minister addressed the need for revisiting the Safe Harbour provision amid the changing media landscape and Indias diverse cultural and social context. "The spread of fake news undermines trust in the media and poses a threat to democracy," the minister told the gathering. Algorithms driving digital platforms prioritise content that maximises engagement, incites strong reactions and, thereby, defines the revenue for the platform. These often amplify sensational or divisive narratives. Vaishnaw highlighted the social consequences of such biases, particularly in a diverse nation like India, and called on platforms to come up with solutions that account for the impact their systems have on our society. During his address, the minister raised a critical question on the rapid growth of digital media and the responsibility for the content published on these platforms. The shift from traditional to digital media has financially impacted conventional media, which invests heavily in journalistic integrity and editorial processes. Minister Vaishnaw highlighted the need for fair compensation for traditional content creators, addressing the asymmetry in bargaining power between digital platforms and conventional media. "The efforts made by the conventional media in creating content needs to be fairly and suitably compensated," he said. Vaishnaw also highlighted the significant upheaval the creative world is facing due to advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). Addressing the challenges posed by AI systems, he emphasised the need to safeguard the intellectual property (IP) rights of original creators. "AI models today can generate creative content based on vast datasets they are trained on. But what happens to the rights and recognition of the original creators who contributed to that data? Are they being compensated or acknowledged for their work?" he asked, urging stakeholders to engage in open debates and collaborative efforts to address these challenges, transcending political differences. "Had a very productive discussion with President Tinubu. We talked about adding momentum to our strategic partnership. There is immense scope for ties to flourish even further in sectors like defence, energy, technology, trade, health, education and more," PM Modi said in a post on social media platform X. Earlier, India and Nigeria exchanged Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on Sunday as PM Modi met with Nigerian President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Nigeria. Along with the PM, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and other officials were present at the exchange of MoUs India and Nigeria have been strategic partners since 2007 with growing economic, energy and defence collaboration. More than 200 Indian companies have invested over USD 27 billion in important sectors in Nigeria. India and Nigeria also share a strong development cooperation partnership. The visit by PM Modi is the first by a Prime Minister of India to Nigeria in 17 years. PM Modi is on a three-nation tour to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana scheduled from November 17 to November 21. (ANI) PM Modi In Nigeria: Nigeria is set to honour Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON). With this, PM Modi will become only the second foreign dignitary to receive this honour. Queen Elizabeth is the only other foreign dignitary who was awarded the GCON in 1969. This will be the 17th such international award conferred to PM Modi by a country. On Sunday, the Prime Minister arrived in Nigeria on the first leg of his three-nation tour. Upon his arrival, the Prime Minister received a warm welcome from Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, Minister for Federal Capital Territory in Abuja, the capital city of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Wike presented PM Modi with the 'Key to the City' of Abuja. The key symbolises the trust and honour bestowed on the PM by the people of Nigeria. PM Modi is scheduled to hold bilateral discussions in Nigeria to strengthen the ties between both countries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a three-nation tour to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana scheduled from November 17 to November 21. In a statement issued by PM Modi, he indicated his first stop in Nigeria, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's invitation, aimed at strengthening strategic ties between both countries. "At the invitation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this will be my first visit to Nigeria, which is our close partner in the West African region. My visit will be an opportunity to build upon our strategic Partnership that is based on shared belief in democracy and pluralism. I am also eagerly looking forward to meeting the Indian community and friends from Nigeria who have sent me warm welcome messages in Hindi," the statement stated. India and Nigeria enjoy warm, friendly, and deep-rooted bilateral relations. The visit by PM Modi is the first visit by a Prime Minister of India to Nigeria in 17 years. Why Is PM Modis Visit Significant? India is emerging as a development partner of Nigeria on two frontsoffering developmental assistance through concessional loans and by offering capacity-building training programmes. India and Nigeria have been strategic partners since 2007 with growing economic, energy, and defence collaboration. More than 200 Indian companies have invested over USD 27 billion in important sectors in Nigeria. India and Nigeria also share a strong development cooperation partnership. (With ANI Inputs) New Delhi: Union Minister Amit Shah earlier on Sunday cancelled his scheduled election rallies in Maharashtra and returned to Delhi as situation in Manipur remains volatile, reported PTI citing unknown sources. The home minister was set to address public meetings at Gadchiroli, Wardha and Katol assembly seats. Shah has returned to Delhi amid escalating tensions in Manipur following a series of violent incidents triggered by the killing of six civilians, including three women and children, in Jiribam district. The security situation in the state has significantly deteriorated, prompting Shah's immediate attention. Union Home Minister Amit Shah cancels his election rallies in Maharashtra, returns to Delhi as situation in Manipur remains volatile: Sources Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) November 17, 2024 The new wave of violent protests erupted on Saturday night, even though an indefinite curfew was imposed to control the situation. Raging mobs torched the houses of three more BJP legislators, including a senior minister, and a Congress MLA in different areas of Imphal Valley, reported PTI. In response to the incident, additional security forces, including the Army and Assam Rifles, were deployed in Imphal. In a post on X, Manipur Police wrote, "On 16.11.2024, irate mobs have targeted various houses and properties of public representatives including Ministers and MLAs of the State in Imphal. Police have resorted to firing tear gas shells etc. to disperse the mob. Security forces including Army and Assam Rifles have been deployed in Imphal to strengthen the security in the town area. Flag marches have been conducted. 08 (eight) persons have been injured in the process of mob dispersal." Delhi Air Pollution: As the air quality in the national capital drops to the severe plus category, the Centre's air quality panel has announced stricter pollution control measures for the Delhi-NCR under Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The measures will be effective from 8 AM on Monday. The measures include a ban on truck entry and a temporary halt on construction at public projects. The action came after the AQI in Delhi breached the 450 mark, sounding alarm bells pertaining to the worsening air quality in the national capital. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) issued the order as the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi worsened, reaching 441 at 4 pm and rising to 457 by 7 pm due to unfavourable weather conditions. As per the order, no trucks will be allowed into Delhi except for those carrying essential items or using clean fuel (LNG/CNG/BS-VI diesel/electric). Non-essential light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi will also be prohibited, except for EVs and CNG and BS-VI diesel ones. Delhi-registered BS-IV or older diesel medium and heavy goods vehicles are banned, except for those in essential services, the panel said. As a part of restrictions, all construction activities in the national capital, including highways, roads, flyovers, power lines, pipelines, and other public projects, have also been suspended. The CAQM suggested online teaching for the students of Classes 6 to 9 and Class 11. It also recommended that offices in the National Capital Region (NCR) work at 50 percent capacity, with the rest working from home. Work-from-home options may be introduced for central government employees, the panel said. State governments could also decide to close colleges, limit non-essential commercial activities, and implement odd-even vehicle rules, it said. (With PTI Inputs) Unrest broke out at BJP leader and former MP Navneet Ranas rally in Maharashtras Amravati last night. A mob attacked a rally, throwing chairs and shouting threatening slogans. The police have registered a case and urged people not to spread rumours. Supporters surrounded Rana as a group threw chairs at her rally in Khallar village, according to videos circulating online. In one clip, she walked toward the crowd, apparently telling them to leave, before they started throwing chairs at her. Her security team quickly intervened to shield her. Navneet Rana told the media, We were campaigning peacefully in Khallar, but during my speech, some individuals began making lewd gestures and hooting. I chose not to respond, but then they started shouting Allahu Akbar slogans. When my supporters asked them to stop using offensive language, they began throwing chairs. Amravati, Maharashtra: During a campaign meeting in Khallar village, Daryapur constituency, BJP leader and former MP Navneet Kaur Rana was attacked with slogans, death threats, and chairs hurled at her. She has filed a police complaint against 40-50 unidentified individuals and pic.twitter.com/9jfaqMRWvf IANS (@ians_india) November 17, 2024 BJP leader Navneet Rana visited Khallar village on Thursday to campaign for Ramesh Bundile, the BJP candidate from Daryapur Assembly constituency, when a dispute erupted between two groups. Inspector Kiran Wankhade of the Crime Branch Rural Amravati confirmed, A dispute broke out during the rally, and we have registered a case based on Navneet Ranas complaint, Wankhade said. Amravati, Maharashtra: Chaos erupted at a rally addressed by former MP Navneet Rana in Khallar village, Daryapur. Miscreants disrupted the event, vandalized chairs, and caused tension. Police enforced strict security measures pic.twitter.com/1B5NlPDBdJ IANS (@ians_india) November 16, 2024 Rana, accompanied by her supporters, visited Khallaar Police Station later in the day after the disruption at her rally. The situation has since been brought under control, with a police checkpoint established in the village. Navneet Rana, a former actor, served as the Independent MP for Amravati Lok Sabha constituency from 2019 to 2024. She joined the BJP earlier this year but failed to secure a win in the general elections. Married to Ravi Rana, the MLA from Badnera in Maharashtra, Navneet Rana was previously associated with Sharad Pawar's NCP. The Air Quality Index (AQI) across Delhi and its neighboring regions remained in the 'severe' category on Sunday, November 17.With colder winds sweeping through the region, temperatures in the cities dropped, further intensifying the hazardous air quality. Delhis overall AQI was recorded at a concerning 428 at around 7 am on Sunday.This level of pollution is considered extremely dangerous for residents, especially those with pre-existing health conditions. Out of 35 monitoring stations across the city, the data from CPCB revealed that most stations recorded AQI levels above 400, falling within the 'severe' range. The highest recorded AQI was 471 at Bawana, followed by areas like Jahangirpuri, Ashok Vihar, Mundka, Vivek Vihar, Rohini, and Anand Vihar, all of which logged AQI readings exceeding 450. Partial School Closure In Haryana In response to the ongoing crisis, the Haryana government has announced a partial school closure in the state, aiming to protect students from exposure to harmful air quality. However, despite these measures, the overall air quality in the region remains a severe concern. The Haryana government has granted deputy commissioners the power to temporarily shut down schools up to Class 5. Health authorities have advised residents to minimize outdoor activities, wear N95 masks if they must go outside, and take necessary precautions to avoid exposure to the hazardous air. Contributing Factors to Worsening Air Quality Delhis air quality has been steadily deteriorating since the end of October, with several contributing factors leading to the current crisis. The main sources of pollution include: Firecrackers: The post-Diwali celebrations, marked by widespread use of firecrackers, have significantly contributed to the hazardous air quality. Stubble Burning: The burning of crop residue in neighboring states like Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan is a major contributor to Delhis pollution. Satellite data from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) indicates that farm fires are still a significant source of particulate matter in the atmosphere. On Thursday alone, satellite data reported a total of five farm fires in Punjab, 11 in Haryana, and a staggering 202 in Uttar Pradesh. The high number of fires in Uttar Pradesh has been particularly alarming, as it directly affects the air quality in Delhi. The recent spell of colder winds has also played a role in trapping the pollutants closer to the ground, creating a thick layer of smog over the region. These conditions not only cause visibility issues but also exacerbate the concentration of harmful particulate matter in the air, making it difficult for residents to breathe. Kailash Gahlot, a senior leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Minister in the Delhi Government, has resigned, expressing deep concerns over the party's current trajectory. In his resignation letter, Gahlot highlighted that internal challenges and shifting priorities within the party had made it difficult to fulfill its core commitment to serving the people of Delhi. Gahlot criticized what he described as a growing focus on political ambitions within AAP, which he believes has overtaken the party's original mission of public service. He pointed out that many promises made to the people, including the cleaning of the Yamuna River, remain unfulfilled. The river, he said, is now more polluted than ever before, and such unkept promises have led to disillusionment among the people. One of the key issues that Gahlot raised in his resignation letter was the failure to deliver on the promise of cleaning the Yamuna River. Despite repeated pledges, the river remains highly polluted, a point of contention for both residents and environmental activists. Gahlot lamented that the governments inability to fulfill this promise had undermined its credibility and commitment to its core values. The 'Sheeshmahal' Controversy and Loss of Trust Gahlot also pointed to controversies like the 'Sheeshmahal' issue, which he claimed have damaged the partys image and raised doubts about whether AAP still upholds its core principles. These controversies, he said, have led many to question whether the party remains dedicated to being the voice of the common people, or if it has shifted focus to advancing its own political agenda. Internal Power Struggles Hindering Progress According to Gahlot, internal power struggles and political battles, particularly with the central government, have hampered the AAP government's ability to deliver basic services to the residents of Delhi. He noted that the constant political infighting has diverted attention from the real issues that affect the people of Delhi, such as healthcare, education, and sanitation. A Call for Reflection and Change In his letter, Gahlot urged the AAP leadership to reflect on the challenges facing the party and consider returning to the values that first brought it together. He emphasized that progress for Delhi cannot occur if the government remains embroiled in endless political conflict, particularly with the Centre. With a heavy heart, Gahlot announced that he would be stepping down from his position within AAP, resigning from the primary membership of the party. He expressed gratitude to the party leadership, colleagues, and well-wishers for their support throughout his political journey. He reaffirmed his commitment to continuing his political mission of serving the people of Delhi, though outside the framework of AAP. In his farewell message, Gahlot wished AAP's leadership the best for their future and health, while thanking his colleagues and supporters for their guidance and support during his tenure. He reiterated that his decision to leave was based on the inability of the party to fulfill its foundational promises and priorities. "I had started my political journey with the commitment to serve the people of Delhi, and I want to continue doing that. However, I now find myself left with no option but to step away from AAP," he concluded. Kerala Lottery Results Sunday 17-11-2024 LIVE: The Kerala Lottery Department, on behalf of the Keralan government, announces the "AKSHAYA AK-677" Lucky Draw Result today Akshaya AK-677, November 17, 2024. The draw will be held at Gorky Bhavan near Bakery Junction in Thiruvananthapuram. The Kerala Lottery Result 2024 for "Akshaya AK-677" will feature 12 series, with changes in series possible each week. A total of 108 lakh tickets are available for purchase weekly. The ticket prices may vary. Check the Akshaya AK-677 results right here to see if youre the first-place winner of 70 Lakhs. Stay tuned to this website for the live update of Kerala Lottery Akshaya AK-677 results today. Kerala Lottery Result 17-11-2024 November: FULL LIST OF WINNING NUMBERS FOR AKSHAYA AK-677 Draw LUCKY NUMBER FOR 1ST PRIZE OF RS 70 LAKHS IS: AE 759139 LUCKY NUMBER FOR 2ND PRIZE OF RS 5 LAKHS IS: AF 760845 LUCKY NUMBERS FOR 3RD PRIZE OF RS 1 Lakh ARE: AA 878475 AB 382357 AC 249668 AD 393585 AE 253916 AF 894874 AG 719150 AH 649832 AJ 370788 AK 206776 AL 181212 AM 233176 LUCKY NUMBERS FOR CONSOLATION PRIZE OF RS 8,000 ARE: AA 759139 AB 759139 AC 759139 AD 759139 AF 759139 AG 759139 AH 759139 AJ 759139 AK 759139 AL 759139 AM 759139 (For The Tickets Ending with The Following Numbers below) LUCKY NUMBERS FOR 4TH PRIZE OF RS 5,000 ARE: 0499 0773 2830 2861 3083 3356 3671 3783 4773 5248 5634 6060 7090 7135 7156 7499 8822 9249 LUCKY NUMBERS FOR 5TH PRIZE OF RS 2,000 ARE: 3592 3901 4685 6030 6914 8690 9304 LUCKY NUMBERS FOR 6TH PRIZE OF RS 1,000 ARE: 1946 2658 2740 2865 3268 3436 3709 3883 4065 4516 5253 5478 5902 6185 6298 6634 6758 7225 7242 7736 7975 8008 8308 8433 8839 9195 LUCKY NUMBERS FOR 7TH PRIZE OF RS 500 ARE: 0130 0273 0291 0480 0523 0618 0689 0864 1122 1293 1431 1477 1584 2013 2031 2105 2200 2271 2346 2405 2502 2531 2533 2746 2759 2790 3079 3277 3285 3448 3668 4073 4698 4708 4898 5324 5377 5387 5435 5828 5904 5986 6086 6233 6263 6289 6481 6498 6543 6663 7043 7047 7155 7344 7376 7420 8130 8492 8506 8716 8744 8761 8832 8890 9088 9091 9094 9635 9697 9710 9887 9954 LUCKY NUMBERS FOR 8TH PRIZE OF RS 100 ARE: 0118 0254 0491 0518 0535 0596 0602 0686 0699 0780 0991 1224 1253 1295 1439 1461 1588 1620 1823 1871 1957 1989 2306 2380 2730 2737 2757 3070 3264 3267 3287 3311 3517 3546 3645 3690 3714 3794 3796 3896 3903 4113 4121 4134 4173 4180 4380 4383 4488 4629 4906 4929 4955 5059 5271 5316 5329 5381 5397 5529 5621 5624 5648 5668 5880 5971 5990 6070 6073 6366 6586 6621 7021 7044 7053 7077 7113 7136 7179 7201 7220 7297 7403 7406 7473 7551 7724 7835 7886 7901 7938 8021 8073 8147 8236 8296 8298 8413 8417 8468 8476 8510 8534 8629 8714 8760 8886 8938 9361 9385 9447 9479 9480 9556 9630 9650 9762 9770 9786 9814 9831 9844 9856 KERALA LOTTERY RESULT 17-11-2024 November TODAY: AKSHAYA AK-677 LOTTERY PRIZE DETAILS 1st Prize: Rs 70 Lakhs 2nd Prize: Rs. 5 lakhs 3rd Prize: Rs. 1 Lakh 4th Prize: Rs. 5,000 5th Prize: Rs. 2,000 6th Prize: Rs. 1,000 7th Prize: Rs. 500 8th Prize: Rs. 100 Consolation Prize: Rs. 8,000 (NOTE: Lottery can be addictive and should be played responsibly. The data provided on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as advice or encouragement. Zee News does not promote lottery in anyway.) Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Nigeria on Sunday, marking the start of his three-nation tour. On invitation of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this is the first visit by an Indian prime minister in 17 years. The Prime Minister is on a three-nation tour from November 17 to November 21, with the first stop being Nigeria, followed by Brazil for 19th G20 summit and finally to Guyana. Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared pictures of his warm reception by the Indian diaspora in Nigeria through a series posts on X. Calling the experience heartwarming, he wrote, "Heartwarming to see the Indian community in Nigeria extending such a warm and vibrant welcome!" Modi responded to a post on X by Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who expressed his eagerness to welcome the Indian leader. Our bilateral discussions will seek to expand the strategic partnership between both countries and enhance cooperation in critical sectors. Welcome to Nigeria, Prime Minister Modi," Tinubu wrote. In reply, Modi shared pictures from his official handle on X, capturing moments of his arrival in Nigeria, including his deplaning and greeting the dignitaries and people present at the airport. During his interaction with the Indian diaspora, Narendra Modi highlighted the Marathi community in Nigeria's happiness over Marathi being granted the status of a Classical Language. Notably, the Union Cabinet granted classical status to Marathi along with several other languages, last month. Whats On Agenda In PMs Three-Nation Tour Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold talks in Nigeria to boost ties between the two countries. His visit comes at the invitation of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, focusing on strengthening strategic relations. After Nigeria, Modi will travel to Brazil for the 19th G20 Summit on November 18-19. As a Troika member, India will contribute to shaping the agenda, building on its G20 presidency. Brazil plans to prioritize Global South issues to ensure progress on key matters. His final stop is Guyana, marking the first visit by an Indian prime minister in over 50 years. He will address the Guyanese Parliament and honor the Indian diaspora, whose roots in Guyana trace back 185 years. (With ANI, PTI inputs) Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday left for Brazil to attend the G20 Summit after wrapping up his first-ever visit to Nigeria, where he held bilateral talks with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and interacted with the Indian community. Modi arrived in the Nigerian capital early Sunday on the first trip to the West African country by an Indian prime minister after a gap of 17 years. After concluding his "productive" visit, Modi posted on X, "Thank you Nigeria for a productive visit, which will add strength and vigour to India-Nigeria friendship." "PM @narendramodi concludes a productive visit in Abuja, Nigeria," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a post on X. During his visit, he was conferred with Nigeria's national award, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), making him the second foreign dignitary to receive the distinction. This was the 17th international award conferred on Modi by a country. Queen Elizabeth is the only foreign dignitary who was awarded GCON in 1969. Modi held bilateral talks with President Tinubu and said that India accords high priority to its strategic partnership with Nigeria and it will work towards boosting ties in a range of areas, including defence, energy and trade. Modi also described the around 60,000-strong Indian expatriate community as a key pillar of India-Nigeria relations and thanked Tinubu for ensuring their welfare. The prime minister also announced that India is sending 20 tonnes of relief supplies for Nigerian people hit by last month's floods. The India-Nigeria ties were elevated to the status of a "strategic partnership' during then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's visit to the African nation in October 2007. Modi is in Nigeria as part of a three-nation tour. His last destination will be Guyana. Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden will be among the leaders to attend the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro on November 18-19. India is part of the G20 Troika along with Brazil and South Africa. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Nigeria and honoured with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on Sunday. With this, he will become only the second foreign dignitary to receive this honour. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude for the personal commitment shown by Nigerian leaders in enhancing the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria. "I express gratitude for your personal commitment to strengthening strategic relations between India and Nigeria. I am happy that last year, under the chairmanship of India, Nigeria joined G20 Summit for the first time as a Guest Country..." Modi said. Modi highlighted the historic moment when both nations jointly supported the African Unions permanent membership in the G20, calling it a "historic" decision. "Together, we granted permanent membership of G20 to the African Union. I think this was historic. This is delightful that Nigeria has been accorded the status of a Partner Country in BRICS. I congratulate Nigeria for this important achievement..." he added. PM Modi expressed this honour which he is all set to receive as centuries-old India-Nigeria relations. "I express heartfelt gratitude for your decision to confer me with Nigeria's national honour. This honour is not just mine but that of 140 Crore Indians. This is an honour of centuries-old India-Nigeria relations. For this honour, I express heartfelt gratitude to Nigeria, your Government and citizens," PM Modi said in Nigeria. (With ANI Inputs) The Indian diaspora in Nigeria warmly welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday as he landed in the country for his state visit. The visit by PM Modi is the first by a Prime Minister of India to Nigeria in 17 years. "From the Indian diaspora, we welcome PM Modi here. PM Narendra Modi is the person who has transformed India from a defence importer to an exporter. The Indian community here has a lot of expectations from him, whether it is oil and gas sector, defence or pharmaceutical industry," said Dhiren Singh Chouhan. Another diaspora member said that he is "very fortunate" to see the PM, "This is a golden moment for us...we are very fortunate to see our PM. It makes me proud of the image PM Narendra Modi has built for himself and our country... He considers the world as his family and that is why he has been honoured with the highest civilian award of Nigeria." PM Modi was honoured with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON). This makes PM Modi the second foreign dignitary to receive this honour. Queen Elizabeth is the only other foreign dignitary who was awarded the GCON, in 1969. A third diaspora member said that PM Modi will address the community later on. "We are very fortunate that we got to meet PM Narendra Modi here in Nigeria. The Indian diaspora is very happy. We are having another community address which will be a big celebration for us," said the Indian community member. The visit by PM Modi is the first by a Prime Minister of India to Nigeria in 17 years. PM Modi is on a three-nation tour to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana scheduled from November 17 to November 21. (ANI) New Delhi: Naga Chaitanya and Sobhita Dhulipala earlier made headline with their engagement announcement. Last month, the wedding festivities for the couple officially began. Ahead of their wedding, their wedding card was leaked and quickly went viral on social media. The wedding card blends traditional South Indian design with elegance, featuring symbols like hanging temple bells, which signify new beginnings and blessings, along with brass lamps at the bottom, temple in the background, cow, banana leaves in borders. The card was made in a pastel colour paletter. Have A Look At The Post: The viral wedding card begins with the heartfelt announcement, ''We are delighted to announce the wedding of Sobhita Dhulipala and Naga Chaitanya," and concludes with a sweet note, ''Your good wishes and blessings are much appreciated on this special occasion." Naga Chaitanya and Sobhita Dhulipala's Wedding Date And Venu Leaked Star couple Naga Chaitanya and Sobhita Dhulipalas wedding card reveals key details, including the wedding date and venue. The couple, whose pre-wedding festivities began last month, are reportedly set to marry on December 4, 2024. They are expected to tie the knot at Annapurna Studios in Hyderabad. Along with the wedding card, guests gift was also leaked, a bucket filled with thoughtful items, including an 'ikkat-printed ensemble', 'a jasmine garland'. Earlier, Bride- to- be Sobhita radiated elegance in a stunning pink Kanjivaram saree as she began her pre-wedding rituals, celebrating the traditional 'Pasupu Danchatam', a cherished Telugu custom marking the start of wedding celebrations. Dhulipala looks breathtaking in a traditional Kanjivaram silk saree gifted by her mother-in-law. Naga Chaitanya and Sobhita Dhulipala got engaged on August 8 at the former's residence in Hyderabad. New Delhi: The much-anticipated trailer of Allu Arjun's 'Pushpa 2: The Rule' is finally unveiled! Following the electrifying teaser, excitement has reached new heights. The trailer debuted in Patna, setting the stage for India's biggest trailer launch event. The trailer promises a high-octane blend of action, drama, and star power, offering fans their first glimpse into the highly anticipated continuation of Pushpa's saga. With Allu Arjun leading the charge, the film is set to raise the bar in storytelling and visual spectacle. Watch Pushpa 2 Trailer Below! Earlier the makers have shared a glimpse of fans across masses gathering at at Gandhi Maidan, Patna to witness India's biggest trailer launch. Allu Arjun's Patna Connection The trailer launch in Patna holds special significance, as 'Pushpa: The Rise' was a massive success in the state, both in theaters and on satellite. In 2022, the Bhojpuri version of the song "Srivalli" became an internet sensation, reflecting the film's immense popularity. Additionally, Allu Arjun enjoys a huge fanbase in Patna, thanks to hits like 'Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo'. Fans had been urging him for a long time to visit the city, making the trailer debut even more momentous. Allu Arjun dedicated the trailer to audiences and fans across the world as a token of respect towards all the love and appreciation the franchise has got. The highly anticipated trailer of Allu Arjun's 'Pushpa 2: The Rule' is set to release today at Patna's iconic Gandhi Maidan at 5 PM, followed by a digital release at 6:03 PM. Directed by Sukumar and featuring a steller cast including Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, and Fahadh Faasil in pivotal roles. Pushpa 2: The Rule is produced by Mythri Movie Makers and Sukumar writings with music on T Series. Mumbai: Salman Khan had no patience for nonsense in the latest episode of 'Bigg Boss 18', where he gave contestants Avinash Mishra and Digvijay Rathee a reality check. During the 'Weekend Ka Vaar' episode, Salman decided to school the two of them about their threats to tear each other apart once they were outside the show. In a teaser shared by the makers on Saturday, Salman had a pair of jeans brought onto the stage and asked Avinash to tear them apart. As expected, Avinash couldn't do it. Salman used the moment to make his point. He asked the contestants, "Yeh jeans hai, yeh fatti hai par aapse fat nahi rahi. Aur aap aadmi faadne ki baat kar rahe hai bich se. Kitne aadmi apne bahar faade hai Digvijay?" (This is a pair of jeans, it's torn but you can't tear it. And you're talking about ripping a human. How many people have you torn apart, Digvijay?) The actor then asked Avinash, "Yeh kaunse show mein aaye ho aap? Karate combat mein aaye ho? Kaunse format mein aaye ho?" (Avinash, in which show have you come? Have you come to Karate combat? What format is this?) Last week producer Ektaa R Kapoor took over the hosting duties from Salman, who was busy shooting for his upcoming film 'Sikandar'. Kapoor didn't hold back as she schooled the housemates during the Shukravaar Ka Vaar episode, with actor Vivian Dsena being her main target. The episode premieres at 10 PM on Colors TV and is also available for streaming on JioCinema. A keyboard is an extension of your creativity and productivity, not just a device for entering text. The correct keyboard can greatly improve your experience whether you're a writer, gamer, or programmer. There is a keyboard to fit every taste and requirement, from the quiet glide of membrane switches to the satisfying click of mechanical keys. In order to assist you in finding the ideal keyboard, we will delve further into the various varieties, features, and suggestions in this guide. 1. 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This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of IDPL, and IDPL claims no responsibility whatsoever. Bangladesh's Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus said on Sunday that the interim government will seek the extradition of deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India after the fall of her government following a mass protest movement in August. In an address to the nation on the completion of 100 days of the interim government, Yunus also said that his government has been continuing its all-out efforts to ensure the security of all citizens, including religious minorities. "We must ensure justice in every killing...We will also ask India to send back fallen autocrat Sheikh Hasina," Yunus was quoted as saying by the state-run BSS news agency. His remarks indicate a U-turn as in an interview with the UK-based Financial Times newspaper last month, Yunus said his government would not immediately seek Hasinas extradition from India. Yunus, who assumed office on August 8, claimed that about 1500 people, including students and workers, were killed while 19,931 others were wounded during the protest against the Hasina government. "Our government is very careful to collect information on every death," he said, adding that the government made arrangements for treatment of the injured in various specialized hospitals, including 13 hospitals in Dhaka. Hasina, 77, resigned and fled to India following massive protests by students and others against her government over a controversial quota system in government jobs. She landed at the Hindon airbase near Delhi on August 5. She was believed to have been shifted later to an unspecified location and has not been seen in public since then. Hasina and her party leaders face accusations of ordering brutal suppression of the Anti-Discrimination Students Movement, resulting in numerous casualties during the July-August protests. Yunus said his government is investigating every incident in a few cases where religious minorities were subjected to violence. "We have tried our best so that any citizen of the country, not only Hindu community members, doesnt become a victim of violence. We will continue these efforts, he said in his address to the nation. He said Bangladesh was a completely insecure country when the interim government assumed office. Yunus said an attempt was made to spread unnecessary fear among the religious minorities. "In some cases, they have also been subjected to violence. But all the hype about it was completely exaggerated. Those little cases of violence that took place were mainly political, he said. But ill efforts were made to make the country unstable again by giving religious colour to these events, he said, adding that the government dealt with the situation firmly with the cooperation of all. He said that after two months of assumption of office by his government, Durga Puja was celebrated in around 32,000 puja mandaps across the country. He said the government took extensive security preparations during the Durga Puja so that the Hindu community members celebrate the festival smoothly. Hindus constitute just about 8 per cent of the 170 million Bangladesh population. The minority Hindu community members have faced regular vandalism of their businesses and destruction of temples during and since the protest erupted, resulting in the ouster of Prime Minister Hasina. Yunus also said that the Election Commission (EC) will be formed soon while an election roadmap will be announced after competing reforms in the electoral system. "Once the electoral reforms are decided, you will get the election roadmap very soon," he said. Noting that there is a question in everyone's mind about when the elections will be held, Yunus said the government has started taking necessary steps to hold the elections. LIMA, Peru: Chinas leader Xi Jinping met for the last time with U.S. President Joe Biden on Saturday but was already looking ahead to President-elect Donald Trump and his America first policies, saying Beijing is ready to work with a new U.S. administration." During their talks on the sidelines of the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Peru, Xi cautioned that a stable China-U.S. relationship was critical not only to the two nations but to the future and destiny of humanity. Make the wise choice, he cautioned. Keep exploring the right way for two major countries to get along well with each other. Without mentioning Trumps name, Xi appeared to signal his concern that the incoming presidents protectionist rhetoric on the campaign trail could send the U.S.-China relationship into another valley. China is ready to work with a new U.S. administration to maintain communication, expand cooperation and manage differences so as to strive for a steady transition of the China-U.S. relationship for the benefit of the two peoples, Xi said through an interpreter. Xi, who is firmly entrenched atop Chinas political hierarchy, spoke forcefully in his brief remarks before reporters. Biden, who is winding down more than 50 years of public service, talked in broader brushstrokes about where the relationship between the two countries has gone. He reflected not just on the past four years but on the decades the two have known each other. We havent always agreed, but our conversations have always been candid and always been frank. Weve never kidded one another, Biden said. These conversations prevent miscalculations, and they ensure the competition between our two countries will not veer into conflict. Biden urged Xi to dissuade North Korea from further deepening its support for Russias war on Ukraine. The leaders, with top aides surrounding them, gathered around a long rectangle of tables in an expansive conference room at a Lima hotel. They had much to discuss, including Chinas indirect support for Russia, human rights issues, technology and Taiwan, the self-ruled democracy that Beijing claims as its own. On artificial intelligence, the two agreed on the need to maintain human control over the decision to use nuclear weapons and more broadly improve safety and international cooperation of the rapidly expanding technology. Theres much uncertainty about what lies ahead in the U.S.-China relationship under Trump, who campaigned promising to levy 60% tariffs on Chinese imports. Already, many American companies, including Nike and eyewear retailer Warby Parker, have been diversifying their sourcing away from China. Shoe brand Steve Madden says it plans to cut imports from China by as much as 45% next year. In a congratulatory message to Trump after his victory over Vice President Kamala Harris, Xi called for the U.S. and China to manage their differences and get along in a new era. In front of cameras Saturday, Xi spoke to Biden but it was unmistakable that his message was directed at Trump. In a major flourishing sci-tech revolution, neither decoupling nor supply chain disruption is a solution, Xi said. Only mutual, beneficial cooperation can lead to common development. Small yard, high fence is not what a major country should pursue. Biden administration officials have said they would advise the Trump team that managing the intense competition with Beijing will likely be the most significant foreign policy challenge they will face. On Saturday, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said Biden had reinforced to Xi that these next two months are a time of transition" and that the president would like to pass off the U.S.-China relationship in stable terms to the new administration. Biden has viewed his relationship with Xi as among the most consequential on the international stage and put much effort into cultivating it. The two first got to know each other on travels across the U.S. and China when both were vice presidents, interactions that both have said left a lasting impression. They last met a year ago on the APEC sidelines in Northern California. For over a decade, you and I have spent many hours together, both here and in China and in between," Biden said. Weve spent a long time dealing with these issues. But the last four years have presented a steady stream of difficult moments. The FBI this week offered new details of a federal investigation into Chinese government efforts to hack into U.S. telecommunications networks. The initial findings have revealed a broad and significant cyberespionage campaign aimed at stealing information from Americans who work in government and politics. Sullivan said Biden raised the matter with Xi during their talks and that the U.S. will have more to say about the investigation in the weeks ahead. U.S. intelligence officials also have assessed China has surged sales to Russia of machine tools, microelectronics and other technology that Moscow is using to produce missiles, tanks, aircraft and other weaponry for use in its war against Ukraine. And tensions flared last year after Biden ordered the shooting down of a Chinese spy balloon that traversed the United States. Biden wants Xi to step up Chinese engagement to prevent an already dangerous moment with North Korea from further escalating. Biden, along with South Korean President Yoon Seok Yul and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, on Friday condemned North Korean leader Kim Jong Uns decision to send thousands of troops to help Moscow repel Ukrainian forces who have seized territory in Russias Kursk border region. White House officials have expressed frustration with Beijing, which accounts for the vast majority of North Koreas trade, for not doing more to rein in Pyongyang. The North Koreans also have provided Russia with artillery and other munitions, according to U.S. and South Korean intelligence officials. And the U.S., Japan and South Korea have expressed alarm over Pyongyangs stepped-up cadence of ballistic missile tests. Kim ordered testing exercises in the lead-up to this months U.S. election and is claiming progress on efforts to build capability to strike the U.S. mainland. Xi and Biden started their day at the leaders retreat at the APEC summit, taking part in a photo where they all wore scarves made from vicuna wool, a symbolic animal for Peru. Its common practice that leaders at these gatherings are given a gift usually traditional clothing of the host country that they don for the photo. ___Long reported from Washington. After being conferred with Nigeria's highest national honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the honour will continue to inspire him to elevate the India-Nigeria strategic partnership to new heights. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the government and people of Nigeria, and dedicated the honour to the "140 crore Indians and the deep friendship between the two nations." Notably, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu conferred the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON) on PM Narendra Modi in Abuja on Sunday. Queen Elizabeth is the only foreign dignitary who has been awarded GCON in 1969. This will be the 17th such international award being conferred to PM Modi by a country. After receiving the honour, PM Modi said, "I express my heartfelt gratitude to the government and the people of Nigeria for conferring on me the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, Nigeria's national award. I accept this honour with humility and respect. I dedicate this honour to the 140 crore Indians and the deep friendship between India and Nigeria." "This award will keep inspiring us to take the India-Nigeria strategic partnership to new heights," he added. PM Modi further highlighted the strong bonds between India and Nigeria, emphasising that their relations are built on "mutual cooperation, goodwill, and mutual respect." He said, "Relations between India and Nigeria are based on mutual cooperation, goodwill and mutual respect. As two vibrant democracies and dynamic economies, we have been working together for the well-being of the people of both countries. Social and cultural diversity in both countries is our identity and our strength. There are many similarities between Nigeria's Renowned Hope Agenda and Viksit Bharat 2047." He added, "Today, we discussed in detail on making mutual cooperation more strong and broad. New possibilities have been identified in the sectors of economy, energy, agriculture, security, fintech, small and medium scale enterprise and culture." PM Modi also reaffirmed India's commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria and the broader African continent and acknowledged Nigeria's "positive role" in Africa. "Nigeria has a very big and positive role in Africa and close cooperation with Africa has been a high priority for India. India and Nigeria will move forward together for the prosperity of the people of both countries and the entire African continent. We will give importance to the interests and priorities of the Global South, working in close coordination," he said. Meanwhile, Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs said that the award citation highlights PM Modi's "visionary leadership," which has positioned India as a global powerhouse and fostered "unity, peace, and shared prosperity for all." Sharing a post on X, Jaiswal wrote, "An honour dedicated to the people of India. President @officialABAT of Nigeria conferred PM @narendramodi with the national award- 'Grand Commander of the Order of Niger,' for his statesmanship & stellar contribution to fostering India-Nigeria ties." "The award citation notes that under PM's visionary leadership, India has been positioned as a global powerhouse & his transformative governance has fostered unity, peace and shared prosperity for all. PM thanked President Tinubu and the people of Nigeria for the honour, which he dedicated to the people of India and to the longstanding friendship between India and Nigeria. PM @narendramodi is the first foreign leader to be conferred with this award since 1969," the post added. https://x.com/MEAIndia/status/1858145022714995161 Notably, the visit by PM Modi is the first by a Prime Minister of India to Nigeria in 17 years. PM Modi is on a three-nation tour to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana scheduled from November 17 to November 21. Earlier in the day, PM Modi held a "very productive discussion" with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday to add "momentum" to the strategic partnership between the two countries. The PM highlighted that there is "immense scope" for the ties to be strengthened in various sectors like defence, technology, health and more. "Had a very productive discussion with President Tinubu. We talked about adding momentum to our strategic partnership. There is immense scope for ties to flourish even further in sectors like defence, energy, technology, trade, health, education and more," PM Modi said in a post on X. (ANI) Baku [Azerbaijan], November 17(ANI/WAM): The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, met with Shi Yongxin, CEO of the Shaolin Monastery, on the sidelines of COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. The discussion centered on the importance of uniting the efforts of religious leaders to address global challenges, with climate change being a primary focus. During the meeting, Judge Abdelsalam emphasised the significant role religions can play in driving impactful global change. He highlighted their ability to guide millions of individuals toward sustainable and responsible behaviours to protect Earth, humanity's shared home. He noted that the Faith Pavilion at COP29 reflects the commitment of the Muslim Council of Elders, led by Dr Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, to amplifying the collective voice of religions in protecting the environment and its natural resources. Shi Yongxin praised the historic 'Document on Human Fraternity', which was co-signed in Abu Dhabi in 2019 by Dr Ahmed Al-Tayeb and Pope Francis. He also commended the Faith Pavilion initiative launched at COP28 in Dubai, describing it as a global platform for interfaith and intercultural dialogue and a practical step in involving religious leaders in climate change efforts. Shi Yongxin emphasized that the Pavilion embodies a message of peace and unity among religions to protect the planet. The Faith Pavilion at COP29, running from November 12 to 22, features over 40 discussion sessions with the participation of 97 organizations representing 11 religions. It aims to build on the success of its inaugural edition at COP28 by strengthening interfaith collaboration for environmental protection, exploring best practices for sustainable adaptation, promoting sustainable lifestyles, and addressing the non-economic impacts of climate change alongside mechanisms for climate justice. (ANI/WAM) Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung is leading a high-profile delegation to Lithuania, which includes executives from over 10 drone companies, Azernews reports. The visit, set to take place early this week, is expected to provoke a strong response from China, which opposes official contacts between Taiwan and other countries. Lin, accompanied by officials from Taiwans Economic Ministry, departed for Lithuania on Sunday. The delegation will attend a forum in Vilnius, focusing on drone technologies, and is scheduled to meet with Lithuanian government officials. The visit is part of Taiwan President Lai Ching-tes push to enhance Taiwans drone manufacturing capabilities, aimed at strengthening the countrys defense and offsetting China's growing military advantage in the tech. Since taking office six months ago, Lai has made drone productionna priority, which includes agreements signed last month with the U.S. Defense Ministry to acquire up to 1,000 attack drones. The goal is to bolster Taiwans defenses amid increasing Chinese military threats, including regular drills simulating an invasion of the island. This visit to Lithuania follows similar diplomatic efforts, such as Joseph Wus trips to Europe in 2023 and previous engagements with U.S. industry executives. It highlights Taiwans strategy to build stronger international ties, particularly in the aerospace and defense sectors. The delegation includes representatives from major Taiwanese drone companies such as Thunder Tiger Corp., Aerospace Industrial Development Corp., and GEOSAT Aerospace & Technology Inc. One of the main objectives is to foster collaboration on drone technologies and to explore joint development with Lithuania, which has expertise in laser technology for anti-drone systems. However, the visit is expected to anger Beijing, which views Taiwan as part of its territory and vehemently opposes any official interaction with Taiwanese representatives. China has previously warned that it will retaliate against countries that engage with Taiwan diplomatically. Lithuania is likely to face diplomatic protests from Beijing, especially since its decision to allow a Taiwanese representative office in Vilnius in 2021 led to a diplomatic rift with China. Despite this, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda has expressed interest in improving relations with China in 2024, making the trip a sensitive issue for both sides. The visit underscores Taiwan's increasing push to secure international partnerships amid mounting pressure from Beijing. Al Ain [UAE], November 17 (ANI/WAM): Under the patronage of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, and organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), the Al Ain Book Festival 2024 kicked off its activities at Al Ain Square - Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium. Held under the theme "All Eyes on Al Ain", the festival is scheduled to run until November 23. This year's festival presents more than 200 events and activities, bringing together a distinguished group of pioneers in culture, art, and poetry from various creative fields. The event aims to promote a culture of reading and encourage members of the community, especially youth and young adults, to engage with Emirati cultural heritage and appreciate its rich legacy. Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the ALC, said, "The patronage of the Al Ain Book Festival by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, underscores the success of the festival and consolidates its position as a prominent cultural destination that promotes knowledge, embraces culture, contributes to the publication of books, and celebrates icons of culture, science, knowledge, and arts." "With its distinguished vision," he continued, "the festival has supported the Centre's strategic efforts to promote the presence of the Arabic language as a key component of cultural identity, in line with the Emirate of Abu Dhabi's vision to create a generation of avid readers with strong ties to their language and culture and to the Emirati heritage and authentic values." "The festival promotes Al Ain's position as a cultural and intellectual hub, highlighting its deep connections to culture, books, and education, while being home to some of the UAE's oldest and most prominent universities," he added. "Furthermore, the event supports Al Ain's presence as the Capital for Gulf Tourism 2025 by promoting its leading cultural and heritage sites that were selected to host the Al Ain Book Festival's cultural and recreational activities, inspired by the UAE's rich heritage." The exhibition allows visitors to explore notable publications across all cultural fields, with 200 exhibitors showcasing 100,000 scientific and intellectual titles. The ALC invites the public to visit the festival, which has become a unique movement in harmony with Abu Dhabi's cultural and intellectual achievements. Visitors can enjoy events at six main venues: Al Ain Square - Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Al Jahili Fort, and the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), in addition to the 'Khazanat Al Kutub' activities in three malls across Al Ain. This, in turn, reflects the Centre's vision and strategic objectives to create a knowledge-based society and foster a community-wide cultural movement. The 'Poetry Nights: The Sung Poetry' programme, one of the festival's key initiatives, highlights the UAE's pioneering experience in preserving folk poetic heritage. It features three segments: 'The Missing Yet Present', which commemorates notable poets who enriched the poetry scene and passed away in 2024; 'Beginnings and Development,' which discusses the role of the media, government initiatives, and private efforts in documenting and preserving poetry; and 'Poets Majlis,' which recreates the atmosphere of poetry gatherings that were broadcast on television stations in the 1980s. In its current edition, the festival celebrates through "Poetry Nights" the legacy of the late Sheikh Tahnoon bin Mohammed Al Nahyan and his notable support for literature and poetry and his keenness to promote culture among generations. (ANI/WAM) The Indian diaspora in Nigeria expressed their happiness after Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the community in Abuja on Sunday during his Nigeria visit on the first leg of his three-nation tour. The diaspora members said that they "felt nice" listening to the Prime Minister. One of the members said that while hearing PM Modi talk about India becoming a 2 trillion dollar economy, the Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) are really happy to hear those messages. Amritesh Kumar, an Indian businessman in Nigeria said, "PM Modi has come, it feels really nice, there is a nice vibe. Here he talked about India's 2 trillion dollar economy being grown. The NRIs here feel good." Sonali Gupta, the principal of the Indian Language School said that she is thankful to the Indian government for incentivising Indian languages in Nigeria. "We have a small India in Nigeria. In our school, Indian children study - where we taught Hindi, Sanskrit and Indian culture is also promoted. We are thankful to the Indian govt, high commission and PM Modi for incentivising these things," she said. Another Indian diaspora member said, "PM Modi gave a good message to the people of India living in Nigeria. He also invited us to India. I thank PM Modi." While addressing the Indian community in Nigeria, PM Modi talked about India's growing defence exports, the space mission and the developing economy. "India's defence export has increased almost 30 times. Today, we export defence equipment to more than 100 countries of the world," he said while addressing the community. He further highlighted how India has also developed their space sector, talking about the Gaganyaan mission to conduct India's first manned flight. "India has made this resolve that soon, we will let Indians into the space through our Gaganyaan. India is going to have a space station. Leaving the comfort zone, to find new ways, is India's second nature. In the last ten years, India has brought 25 crore people out of poverty. This is the hope for every country, that if India has done this, then we can do it too," the PM said. Earlier in the day, PM Modi held a "very productive discussion" with Nigerian President Tinubu to add "momentum" to the strategic partnership between the two countries. The PM highlighted that there is "immense scope" for the ties to be strengthened in various sectors like defence, technology, health and more. (ANI) The senior citizens of Indian heritage celebrated Diwali at the 16th Annual Diwali Gala organised by the BRUHUD New York Seniors on Sunday. Many seniors of the Indian Community came together at the Gala for a belated Diwali bash. The event witnessed an impressive turnout of over 700 attendees, including the Chief Guest, Prem Bhandari, a prominent voice of the Indian diaspora and Chairman of Jaipur Foot USA. Dr Rekha Bhandari, triple board-certified Internal medicine, Geriatrics, and Palliative, said that the challenges facing the population of Indian immigrants are somewhat unique. "The biggest epidemic among seniors is loneliness," she said. "And their problems are different from the average American because of language issues and racial issues." Chief Guest Prem Bhandari, in his address, announced that two Jaipur Foot camps will be held in Gujarat in the last week of January 2025. One camp will occur at Mahudi Jain Teerth near Ahmedabad, and the other in Dang for the tribal community. Both camps are sponsored by BRUHUD President Ajay Patel in memory of his late father, Shashikant Bhai Patel, who founded BRUHUD in 2009 in New York. Bhandari also shared updates from Jaipur Foot Founder Padma Bhushan DR Mehta. He said that a Jaipur Foot camp is currently underway at the Somnath Temple in Gujarat, where 300 differently-abled individuals have already been fitted with the prosthetic. By the time the camp concludes on November 23, 2024, another 300 people are expected to benefit. He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his initiatives to support the Jaipur Foot movement. Bhandari highlighted the "India for Humanity" campaign, under which the Jaipur Foot USA's parent organization, BMVSS, successfully conducted 30 international Jaipur Foot camps across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, fully sponsored by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India. And 31 at an international camp going on in the capital of Madagascar country in East Africa. Furthermore, Bhandari said that the parent organisation is all set for a permanent Jaipur Foot centre in Malawi, a first of its kind, as recently declared during the Indian President's visit to the country. BRUHUD President Ajay Patel extended a warm welcome to the guests. During the gala, Pragya Singh, Consul (Community Affairs) from the New York consulate, accepted a plaque on behalf of Varun Jeph, Deputy Consul General of India in New York, who was honoured for his outstanding and distinguished service to the Indian diaspora across the 10 states under the New York Consulate's jurisdiction. Mohan Nannapaneni, Founder of Team Aid, was also recognized for his exemplary service to the community, particularly for facilitating the repatriation of mortal remains from any part of the US to any part of India. BRUHUD is a nonprofit organisation based in New York that holds events for its seniors focusing on health or other issues relevant to its senior population. (ANI) India's G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant highlighted the 2023 New Delhi declaration, describing it as "very ambitious" and "progressive" in the run-up to the G20 Summit in Brazil. Speaking to ANI on Sunday, Kant said that India will be "bringing the legacy" of the New Delhi declaration to the summit. He cited topics including sustainable growth, sustainable development goals and technological transformation on which the G20 declaration was focused during India's presidency in 2023. "India is bringing the legacy of the New Delhi declaration because India had a very ambitious and forward-looking declaration. Several issues relating to sustainable growth, sustainable development goals, technological transformation, women-led development and green development pacts. All those issues figure very prominently in some way or other," Kant said. Kant noted that the New Delhi declaration was progressive and was focused on the visions of PM Modi. "New Delhi declaration has been a constant point of reference because it was progressive. The declaration was progressive, forward-looking and had many of the visions of PM in terms of sustainability, leaving no one behind, in terms of sustainable growth, lifting people above poverty and hunger," Kant said. He mentioned that under Brazillian presidency all the issues raised by India are "getting reflected." Kant said that the G20 summit in Brazil is likely to be more focused on the Middle-East conflict. He reiterated that the forum is for economics, so more discussion is likely to be focused on that. "The contentious issues are geopolitics because, after India's presidency, we have had a conflict in the Middle East, which had a huge humanitarian damage, that issue is also being discussed here. But, G20 is preeminently a forum for economic growth, it is for development, growth and progress," Kant said. PM Modi has embarked on his journey to Brazil to attend the G20 summit scheduled for November 18, after concluding his Nigeria visit on Sunday. As a Troika member, India will play a significant role in shaping the agenda, building on the momentum from its own G20 presidency. Brazil is expected to maintain the focus on Global South priorities, ensuring continuity and progress on key issues. PM Modi had stated that after India's successful presidency at the G20 Summit last year, Brazil is expected to continue efforts to advance the Global South's priorities. "In Brazil, I will attend the 19th G-20 Summit as a Troika member. Last year, India's successful Presidency elevated the G-20 to people's G-20 and mainstreamed the priorities of the Global South into its Agenda. This year, Brazil has built upon India's legacy. I look forward to meaningful discussions in keeping with our vision of 'One Earth, One Family, One Future.' I will also use the opportunity to exchange views on furthering bilateral cooperation with several other leaders," PM Modi said earlier in an official statement. (ANI) An American Airlines flight avoided colliding with a Hawaii mountain range, narrowly averting disaster. Flight 298 took off from Honolulu International Airport just after 1 a.m. on Wednesday en route to Los Angeles. However, the pilots didnt take the correct turn while taking off, the Federal Aviation Administration said. This put them on a path toward Hawaiis Koolau mountain range, CNN reports. This meant the crew had to perform an expedited climb at the direction of air traffic control to fly above the mountain range. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An air traffic controller instructed American Airlines Flight 298 to perform an expedited climb after the crew did not make the assigned turn while departing from Honolulu International Airport, the FAA said in a statement. The controllers actions ensured the aircraft remained safely above nearby terrain. An American Airlines spokesperson told CNN that the crew complied with controller instructions. The spokesperson also noted that the Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System, which alerts an aircrafts crew to a potential collision, did not go off during the incident. The FAA is now investigating the incident.The Independent has contacted American Airlines for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement American Airlines made headlines in recent weeks as they began testing a new system to prevent line-cutting while boarding. The airline is using a new technology to detect a passengers zone when they scan their ticket. The airline has been testing the program in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Tuscon, Arizona, The Independent reported. We are in the early phase of testing new technology used during the boarding process, an American Airlines spokesperson previously told The Independent. The new technology is designed to ensure customers receive the benefits of priority boarding with ease and helps improve the boarding experience by providing greater visibility into boarding progress for our team. The White House on Friday announced it had finalized an agreement with a major semiconductor manufacturer to invest billions of dollars in facilities in Arizona as President Biden looks to cement parts of his legislative legacy before leaving office in January. Biden in a statement announced the government had completed a $6.6 billion grant agreement with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company through the Chips and Science Act, a bipartisan bill signed into law in 2022 intended to boost U.S. production of critical semiconductor chips. Todays announcement is among the most critical milestones yet in the implementation of the bipartisan CHIPS & Science Act, and demonstrates how we are ensuring that the progress made to date will continue to unfold in the coming years, benefitting communities all across the country, Biden said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The grant is expected to create $65 billion of private investment by TSMC in Arizona, Biden said, which will include three new facilities and the creation of tens of thousands of jobs by the end of the decade. The first of the companys new facilities is on track to open next year. Biden earlier this year announced a slew of preliminary grant agreements with companies, including TSMC, through the CHIPS law. The announcement of a final agreement underscores how the administration is hoping to get those deals across the finish line before President-elect Trump takes office. Trump has during an October interview with podcaster Joe Rogan criticized the CHIPS bill as benefitting rich companies and claimed he could use tariffs to attract companies instead. Experts have warned tariffs would increase costs for consumers, something Trump has dismissed. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) earlier this month had to walk back a comment in which he said House Republicans would probably move to try to repeal the CHIPS and Science Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden has repeatedly touted the importance of the CHIPS and Science Act, citing the prevalence of microchips that are used in everyday technology such as phones, cars, home appliances and more. Officials have said the law is critical to bolster domestic production of the chips to make the U.S. less reliant on foreign supply chains. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. SEOUL, South Korea North Koreas entry into Russias war against Ukraine is a major escalation in the grinding conflict, but Moscow may find its more trouble than its worth. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has sent thousands of soldiers to Russia, the U.S. and others say, stepping up his assistance against Ukraine as he and Russian President Vladimir Putin strengthen security ties. With victory still elusive as the war nears the end of its third year, Putin welcomes more help from North Korea, which has already been providing weapons, experts say. But the inexperience of the North Korean soldiers as well as the language barrier between them and their Russian counterparts are likely to minimize their impact on the battlefield, military analysts told NBC News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The average Russian soldier is going to say, what are they doing here? Im having to hold their hand. Im tripping over their bodies, said Sydney Seiler, the U.S. national intelligence officer for North Korea from 2020 to 2023. The State Department said Tuesday that most of the more than 10,000 North Korean soldiers sent to Russia had started fighting in the Russian region of Kursk, where Ukrainian forces launched an offensive in August. South Koreas National Intelligence Service also said this week that North Korean soldiers deployed to Russia had started engaging in combat. Putin did not deny the presence of North Korean troops in Russia when asked by NBC News last month, while North Korea has not confirmed it but said it would be in line with international law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The North Korean troops could give a boost to Russias depleted forces as they try to retake control of Kursk, which is the first Russian territory to be occupied by a foreign military since World War II. Every North Korean soldier that can dig a latrine, guard an intersection, seize and hold a building allows one more Russian soldier to go to the front line, said Seiler, who is now the Korea chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a think tank in Washington. Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang in June. North Korea-Russia cooperation was the issue addressed most in-depth at a meeting on Friday between President Joe Biden and the leaders of two key U.S. allies at risk from Pyongyang, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, a senior administration official said. There was tremendous convergence on just how destabilizing this growing nexus between Moscow and Pyongyang is for the region, the official said of the meeting, which took place on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in Lima, Peru. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. and others say that Kim, who on Monday ratified a mutual defense pact that he and Putin signed in June, was already supplying Russia with millions of artillery rounds, possibly in exchange for Russian technical assistance with his nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Both Pyongyang and Moscow deny any arms transfers. The North Korean troops, some of whom South Korea says are part of Pyongyangs special operations force, could now be used to form combat units or operate that artillery, analysts say. They are unlikely to make a meaningful difference on the front lines, however. Though North Korea has the worlds fourth-largest army, the deployment in Kursk is the first major combat its soldiers have seen since the 1950-53 Korean War. Kim Jong Un is selling North Korean soldiers as cannon fodder mercenaries, South Korean Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun said last month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its an entirely new environment for the North Korean soldiers, who live in one of the most isolated and repressive countries in the world. The Pentagon said last week that it was unable to confirm reports that North Korean troops unused to unfettered internet access were spending much of their time consuming online pornography, Politico reported. There is also the risk that North Korean soldiers could defect or be taken as prisoners of war, either of which could prove embarrassing for Kim and Putin. Even if that doesnt happen, the North Koreans could end up being less help than hindrance, Seiler said. There is a lot of skepticism and questioning now that are these troops even viable? he said. Satellite images released Oct. 18 show what South Koreas National Intelligence Service says are North Korean personnel gathered at Russias Ussuriysk military facility two days earlier. Mismatched skills and missing camaraderie The Russians frustration was on display last month in what Ukrainian military intelligence said were intercepted audio messages between members of a Russian unit in Kursk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the messages, Russian soldiers appear to complain about their North Korean counterparts, referred to as the K Battalion, with one soldier saying he doesnt know what the f--- to do with them. NBC News has not independently authenticated the audio, and the Russian Ministry of Defense has not publicly commented on it. There is also the matter of the language barrier, which will be a significant hurdle, said John Hardie, deputy director of the Russia program at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a Washington-based think tank. Communication difficulties between Russian and North Korean soldiers will complicate command and control, especially if Russia attempts to integrate the North Koreans into lower echelons, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Russian military is teaching the North Korean soldiers about 100 key military terms, but North Koreans are having a difficult time learning Russian, South Korean lawmakers Lee Sung-kwon and Park Sun-won said last month. While translators and some basic vocabulary may help, combat operations require constant and specific communications to be really successful, not just some senior officer pointing in a direction and telling the North Koreans to attack there, said Bruce Bennett, an adjunct senior researcher at the California-based nonprofit think tank Rand Corp. Communication is not the only issue that could keep Russian and North Korean forces from fighting together effectively. North Korean soldiers inexperience could be another point of friction and a major factor in how they are deployed. North Korean troops will likely have had limited exposure to some of the capabilities and tactics, techniques and procedures that have evolved during the war in Ukraine, Hardie said. There will be a lot of learning on the job. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Given these constraints, Bennett said, the Russian military might revive a strategy it used in the Cold War: forming what is known as an operational maneuver group (OMG), which goes farther across enemy lines than traditional units and includes elite soldiers who can cripple the enemys defenses from inside. The Russians may be thinking of using part of the North Korean force to carry out massed attacks, hoping to overwhelm Ukraines defenders, Bennett said. The rest, he said, could become part of an OMG that goes deep into Ukrainian-held territory. For Putin, this could provide a strategic breakthrough against Ukraines defenses and create conditions to end the war with a Russian victory, he said. Though the North Korean troops are unlikely to make much difference in Putins overall strategy in the Ukraine war, they could help him prolong it, said Edward Howell, a North Korea expert at Chatham House, a London-based think tank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their presence could also bring continued goodwill from the Russian president. Even if the Ukraine war were to end, the relationship between North Korea and Russia now seems to have reached new heights, Howell said. Stella Kim reported from Seoul and Mithil Aggarwal from Hong Kong. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Haiti was in the throes of political chaos. Opponents of President Jovenel Moise were marching through the streets of Port-au-Prince demanding his removal from office. U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, who had been railing against Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro at a Coral Gables conference, was asked about the deepening crisis. The United States, he said at the October 2019 event, had no role to play in the Haitian crisis, which was fueled by gasoline shortages and allegations of graft and mismanagement by Moise. I can tell you that today, theres a system of government in Haiti. Whether it functions well or not, its up to the people of Haiti to decide, he said. But we are not going to interfere on behalf or against any elected official. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Wednesday, President-elect Donald Trump nominated Rubio to be secretary of state the United States top diplomat. For Haitians, Rubios nomination is a mixed bag, given his past position that the U.S. should not be involved in the countrys messy instability, while also supporting some Haiti-focused legislation in Congress. But his new role, some Haiti experts say, may leave him no choice but to get enmeshed in the chaotic politics of the volatile Caribbean nation. Haiti is just one of those places that you could try to ignore it for a period of time, but then you cant, said Thomas Shannon, a former under secretary of state who spent nearly 35 years in the U.S. foreign service. There are many things to be worried about on Haiti. Chief among them, of course, is the well-being of the Haitian people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rubios years on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee have given him a broad view of the world and the challenges that the United States faces. His years on the Western Hemisphere subcommittee also means that he knows the region well. But he will be coming into the job at a time of increasing tensions in the region and growing instability in Haiti: Five years after Rubios announced stance of non-interference in the Caribbean country, Moise is dead, assassinated in the middle of the night inside his bedroom. The capital, Port-au-Prince, is under siege by armed gangs that kidnap, rape and kill and shoot at U.S. embassy armored vehicles and at U.S. aircraft. Foreign cops have been sent by Kenya and other nations as part of a U.S.-backed and financed effort to combat the gangs. Kenyan police officers and support staff first arrived in Haiti on June 25, 2024, as part of the first contingent of a United Nations-backed Multinational Security Support mission. What we have building in a greater Caribbean, in Cuba, Haiti and in Venezuela, is a real cauldron of chaos and points of significant instability that unless theyre contained or addressed, could be very damaging, Shannon said. And Haiti, in many ways, is a real marker... because its so bad, and because our responsibility for it is so obvious, and and our unwillingness to accept that responsibility, is so egregious. Here are some of the key issues that Rubio and the incoming Trump administration will face in Haiti: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Armed gangs: Already in control of more than 85% of Port-au-Prince and spreading to surrounding areas, the gangs have doubled down on the violence and become even more emboldened since the arrival of the multinational security support mission in June. The Multinational Security Support mission: The U.S. response to Haitis violence has been to help create a U.N.-authorized multinational force, led by Kenya. But it remains in dire need of equipment and funding. Key Republican lawmakers have not been supportive of the mission and earlier this year blocked the State Departments efforts to provide $100 million for the force. The incoming administration will need to decide what to do with the mission, which has been authorized until October of 2025, but could see its funding run out by February. Putting the U.N. in charge: The Biden administration wants to see the Kenya-led mission transformed into a formal U.N. peacekeeping operation, which would mean the world agency would take over all facets of the operation, including providing the troops and paying for the mission. But it is unclear if Russia and China, which hold veto power in the U.N. Security Council, will support the peacekeeping resolution the U.S has been drafting with Ecuador. If the Security Council fails to approve the resolution, the Trump administration will need to decide its next steps as the gang crisis grows more severe. Money: The Biden administration, which is rushing to get more equipment to Haiti, said this week it intends to provide nearly $628 million in financial and other support for the security mission. That amount is still low, and the Trump administration will need to decide what to do about funding for Haiti, even beyond the security concerns. Lack of funding by the U.S. and other donors for healthcare and other humanitarian assistance has hampered efforts to deal with Haitis problems. More than 700,000 Haitians have been displaced by the violence and 5.4 million are going hungry. The U.N. is trying to raise $684 million to help, but has only been able to put together less than half that, $289 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Immigration: Haitis economy is on the brink of collapse, along with its healthcare system. The combination, and the increasing gang violence, could push more Haitians to take to the sea to reach the U.S., fueling an immigration crisis even as the Trump administration plans to strip Haitians of immigration benefits and put them on deportation flights. Elections: Haiti hasnt had one since 2016. The Biden administration helped put in place a transitional government tasked with putting an elected president in office by Feb. 7, 2026. But Haitis political leaders this week expressed doubts about that timetable and the credibility of such a vote, citing the recent shakeup that led to the naming of a new prime minister, Alix Didier Fils-Aime, on Monday and the ongoing investigation of three members of the ruling presidential council accused of bribery. Air travel. The country is currently under a Federal Aviation Administration ban preventing U.S. carriers from traveling in Haitian airspace for the next 30 days, after planes from three U.S. airlines were hit by gunfire. It is unclear if the ban, which has also forced a cancellation of the U.N.s humanitarian flights in the country, will still be in place by the time Trump takes office on Jan. 20. But protecting U.S. carriers from the gang violence will remain a top concern. Haiti is such a mess of massive proportions a mess made by both parties that Rubio has been loathe to do more than the bare minimum, said Fulton Armstrong, a Haiti expert and senior faculty fellow at the Center for Latin American and Latino Studies at American University in Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fulton, who was chief of a CIA group on Haiti when President Bill Clinton helped restore Haitian President Jean-Bertrand Aristide to power in 1994, said when the gangs dont shake things up, Haitis Transitional Presidential Council, which just booted the countrys second prime minister in eight months, and the countrys elite will, forcing the administrations hand. As secretary of state, Rubio wont be able to hide under the bed on the Haiti issue, he said. During his years in Congress, Rubio sponsored a number of bills supporting trade with the Caribbean nation and toughening Haiti-related reporting requirements from the State Department. This included a bipartisan bill requiring State to investigate and provide Congress with annual reports to identify the relationships between criminal gangs and political and economic elites in Haiti. He also supported the Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement Act, known as the HOPE-HELP Act, which gives preferential treatment to imports from Haiti to help the countrys struggling textile industry. I cant talk about the whole of Haiti, but it was Sen. Rubio who introduced the Senate bill almost three years ago to get the HOPE-HELP renewed, said Georges Sassine, the former president of Haitis Manufacturers Association. I am very grateful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But critics say Rubio has avoided taking on the big issues in Haiti, steering clear of tackling problems that are politically challenging, and they complain its been difficult to get him to engage. Gepsie Metellus Our history as a community with him is that its always been a challenge to reach his office and communicate with anyone who could give us a response or direct a response to anything, said Gepsie Metellus, a Haitian-American South Florida activist. So Im really not expecting much. Metellus said she has been particularly disappointed with his lack of response to the ongoing political crisis and his silence as the Haitian community sustained attacks during the presidential campaign, when Trump falsely claimed Haitians in Springfield, Ohio, were eating their neighbors pets. I was very disappointed that I didnt hear anything from him, especially someone whose own personal history is so similar to the history of most Haitians in South Florida, she said. I had hoped for a comment from him, even to reiterate our humanity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As someone who grew up in Miami, home to one of the largest Haitian-American communities in the U.S., Rubio is more than familiar with its struggles. But that has not always translated into the kind of staunch support Haitians have received from other congressional lawmakers. I dont know if I should put too much stake in hoping that as secretary of state he would even give us the time of day, Metellus said. This is someone whos been very active on the political scene for a while now, as a state representative, a state senator, Florida senator. He has been around the challenges as well as the opportunities in this community. Hes seen progress. Hes seen accomplishments. Among Washington observers, there has always been debate about how high Haiti, less than 900 miles from Floridas shores, will figure on any new administrations agenda. It is the same with Trump, who went from promising to be Haitian-Americans champion during his 2016 presidential campaign to now vowing to begin deporting Haitians. Rubio in the State Department, along with others in the incoming Trump administration, will take an exceedingly hard line against Haitian migration to the United States as as a result of the disorder and violence, said Cynthia Arnson, a fellow at the Wilson Center in Washington. That said, its unclear how Rubio will position the United States in an effort to help put Haiti back together again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arnson, a Latin American expert who teaches at Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, said there is a lot of unknowns about the new administration, even with Rubios past support for some U.S. assistance to Haiti. I think hes been trying to some extent to thread a needle, recognizing that there are large communities of Haitians, legal immigrant Haitians in Florida and greater Miami area, she said. There is one piece of advice she would give the incoming administration, Arson said: Its not advisable for the U.S. to look the other way as a state collapses so close to U.S. borders and the borders of U.S. allies. A North Carolina lawmaker is going viral on TikTok after his office allegedly told a female constituent in an email to move to China after she raised concerns about the states abortion policy. The constituent, who asked to remain anonymous due to concerns for her safety, told NBC News on Saturday that she sent an email to Republican state Sen. Danny Britt on Nov. 7 to say that her family desperately wants to expand. But because of You, [President-elect Donald] Trump and the republican party and the strict abortion laws in this country we cannot, she wrote in the email, a copy of which was shared with NBC News. Thanks for ruining our futures! You all are terrible people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response, Britts legislative assistant Camille McDougald allegedly told the constituent to consider moving to another country. Thank you so much for the email. I am not quite certain how we are preventing you from expanding your family. I suggest you move to China immediately and see how that works out for you, the email reads. If for some reason that fails Russia is nice in the winter and Venezuela in the summer. McDougalds response gained attention after it was shared by TikTok user Lindsay Talley, who posted a video last week explaining that her friend has a genetic disorder that creates life-threatening anomalies with fetal heart issues. The video has garnered more than 260,000 views, with many of the commenters slamming the response as unprofessional and disgusting. This is incredibly inappropriate, one person wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These politicians have lost their ever loving minds, another commented. The constituent told NBC News that she is a carrier for a very rare genetic condition with a 50% chance of being passed on to a child. I was scared when I wrote that email, about my livelihood, she said. The woman said McDougalds response made it seem like they dont care. Multiple attempts to reach Britt and McDougald have been unsuccessful. Under North Carolina law, abortions are legal in the following circumstances: during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy; when a qualified physician determines a medical emergency exists; through the 20th week of pregnancy when the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest; and during the first 24 weeks of pregnancy if a doctor determines there exists a life-limiting anomaly in the fetus. If a life-limiting anomaly is detected, the patient must fill out a consent form before seeking an abortion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman argued that the law was not clear enough, and because of that, it is forcing people to get care out of state. In the end, the woman said she wants her government representatives to have some compassion and tell me what theyre going to do. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com The state of Oklahoma has started a Religious Liberty and Patriotism department and is committed to bringing a Bible to every classroom. Thai Noipho / Getty Images State Superintendent Ryan Walters released a video about it that's currently making the rounds on social media: The Bible is back in Oklahomas classrooms. We are getting our kids back on track. pic.twitter.com/6dTjZKQ4pp Superintendent Ryan Walters (@RyanWaltersSupt) November 14, 2024 Twitter: @RyanWaltersSupt "I'm excited to announce today that Oklahoma is the first state to bring the Bible back to the classroom. Today, we purchased over 500 Bibles that will be in the AP government classrooms across the state," he said. "We have the Bible, the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights. These are foundational documents in our nation's history. Our kids have to understand the role the Bible played in influencing American history." "It's very clear that the radical left has driven the Bible out of the classroom which leads to a lack of understanding of American history. We will not stop until we bring the Bible back to every classroom in the state." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walters also sent a 90-second video to every state superintendent, requiring them to show it to all enrolled students and their parents. In the video, Walters says this prayer: "Dear God, thank you for all the blessings you've given our country. I pray for our leaders to make the right decisions, I pray in particular for President Donald Trump and his team as they continue to bring about change to the country. I pray for our parents, teachers, and kids that they get the best education possible and live high quality lives. I also pray that we continue to teach love of country to our young people, and that our students understand what makes America great and that they continue to love this country. Amen." Let's just say, some people are not happy about it, and everyone is pointing out the same thing... Twitter: @PeterTwinklage Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They're saying Oklahoma is ranked 49th in the country in terms of education by U.S. News & World. Oklahoma is ranked 49 out of 50 in education. But hey, nice Bibles. https://t.co/2eXkmfUP0W Brian Tyler Cohen (@briantylercohen) November 15, 2024 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Twitter: @briantylercohen Yep, 49 out of 50. And that's not all! "Anyone who cares about the constitution understands how insane this is," one person said. anyone who cares about the constitution understands how insane this is. https://t.co/oPlrywJbD8 Alexis Kraft (@TheAlexisKraft) November 15, 2024 Twitter: @TheAlexisKraft "Im Christian and very conservative but I genuinely do not agree with this," another person said. Im Christian and very conservative but I genuinely do not agree with this. Many Moonz (@ManyMoonzz) November 14, 2024 Twitter: @ManyMoonzz And this person pointed out this extremely unfortunate error: "Forgetting the apostrophe here is really a tell." Forgetting the apostrophe here is really a tell https://t.co/B7LFig3i92 dylan (@narrenhut) November 15, 2024 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Twitter: @narrenhut Even the Church of Satan chimed in, "We don't condone the indoctrination of children, don't believe religion should be taught in schools, and we aren't hypocrites." Many people sending this to us asking if we will fight to get The Satanic Bible put in classrooms as well?The answer, as always, is no.We don't condone the indoctrination of children, don't believe religion should be taught in schools, and we aren't hypocrites. https://t.co/OlooW87zIL The Church Of Satan (@ChurchofSatan) November 15, 2024 Twitter: @ChurchofSatan USA Today reports that some large districts in the state say they aren't complying with the mandate. Andreypopov / Getty Images Piedmont schools in the suburbs of Oklahoma City sent a letter to parents saying they have "'No plans to change course from our current materials." In the letter, the school district said they "acknowledge the significant influence of various religions in world history and culture," but "it is important to clarify that while students learn about religion's role in historical and cultural contexts, teaching any specific religious doctrine or practice is not a part of the current standards." Alex Gandara / Getty Images Needless to say, it will be interesting to see how this one turns out! Fox Advertisement Advertisement Nov. 16 (UPI) -- Russia's state-owned natural gas supplier said it won't send any more gas to Austria after Saturday, but Austrian officials say that won't be a problem. Gazprom officials announced they will cease delivering natural gas to Austria as winter approaches, but officials at Austrian energy company OMV said they expected the change and will continue receiving natural gas from Italy, Germany and the Netherlands, Bloomberg reported. Austria has a suitable supply of alternative fuels and "no one will freeze" this winter, Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer said Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our gas storage facilities are full and we have sufficient capacity to obtain gas from other regions," Nehammer said. Gazprom is ceasing natural gas deliveries after the International Chamber of Commerce sided with OMV in a pricing dispute with Gazprom. The ICC awarded $242 million to OMV in an arbitration, and OMV officials said the Austrian energy firm won't pay Gazprom until OMV receives an amount of natural gas equal to the $242million award. OMV is Austria's largest energy provider, and Austria is one of three European Union countries that purchase natural gas from Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gazprom supplied about 98% of Austria's natural gas in December, and Austrian officials on February announced it would require domestic energy companies to gradually end their purchased of Russian-sourced gas and find alternative sources. News of Gazprom's pending cessation of natural gas deliveries to Austria prompted a 2.7% rise in European gas futures to $50.08 per megawatt-hour on Friday. Weeks before the Atlantic hurricane season ends, Tropical Storm Sara neared landfall along the Belize Coast. This weekend, the storm has brought torrential rain to Honduras. The latest storm in the Atlantic hurricane season caused heavy rains as it moved inland over portions of the Yucatan Peninsula, according to the National Hurricane Center in Miami. Experts there warned of torrential rainfall with life-threatening flooding and mudslides for portions of Central America. At 7 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 17, Tropical Storm Sara was 60 miles south-southeast of Belize City with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph. The storm was moving west-northwest at 5 mph. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hurricane season runs June 1 to Nov. 30 every year, with the busiest part of the season from August to October. After Sara, the next named storm would be Tony (see below). Track all active storms Weather alerts via text: Sign up to get updates about current storms and weather events by location Where is Tropical Storm Sara? A tropical storm warning was in effect for: The Northern coast of Honduras from Punta Castilla westward to theHonduras-Guatemala border The Bay Islands of Honduras The Caribbean Sea coast of Guatemala The coast of Belize The coast of Mexico from Puerto Costa Maya southward to Chetumal A tropical storm warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected somewhere within the warning area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Interests elsewhere in the Yucatan Peninsula should monitor the progress of this system. At 7 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 17, the center of Tropical Storm Sara was moving toward the west-northwest near 5 mph and this general motion with some increase in forward speed was expected through tonight. On the forecast track, the center of Sara will make landfall in Belize later this morning or around midday. Maximum sustained winds were near 40 mph with higher gusts. Only small fluctuations in strength are anticipated until landfall. Weakening was forecast after the storm moves inland, and dissipation was expected over the southern portion of the Yucatan Peninsula tonight or on Monday. Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 105 miles from the center. Hazards affecting land Rainfall: Through early next week, rainfall amounts of 15 to 25 inches with isolated storm totals around 40 inches area expected over northern Honduras. This rainfall will lead to widespread areas of life-threatening and potentially catastrophic flash flooding and mudslides, especially along and near the Sierra La Esperanza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elsewhere across the rest of Honduras, Belize, El Salvador, eastern Guatemala, western Nicaragua, and the Mexican State of Quintana Roo, Tropical Storm Sara is expected to produce 5 to 10 inches of rain with localized totals around 15 inches through early next week. This will result in areas of flash flooding, perhaps significant, along with the potential of mudslides. Wind: Tropical storm conditions, especially in gusts, are expected in the warning area in portions of Honduras, Guatemala, Belize, and the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico during the next several hours. Storm surge: A storm surge could raise water levels by as much as 1 to 3 feet above ground level near and to the north of where the center of Sara crosses the coast of Belize. Near the coast, the surge will be accompanied by large and destructive waves. Weather radar: Will we get showers, thunderstorms, rain in Florida today? Shown is the National Weather Service radar for the Southeast United States, which shows conditions in real-time. The current date and time show up on the bottom right of this radar embed; otherwise, you may need to clear your cache. What are the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season names? According to the National Hurricane Center in Miami, these are the list of names for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alberto Beryl Chris Debby Ernesto Francine Gordon Helene Isaac Joyce Kirk Leslie Milton Nadine Oscar Patty Rafael Sara Tony Valerie William When is 2024 hurricane season over, in Florida and beyond? The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30, 2024. The Atlantic basin includes the northern Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. Contributing: Cheryl McCloud, USA TODAY Network-Florida This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Tropical Storm Sara landfall: Track path of system in Central America Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, Oct. 23, 2024. Credit - Shen HongXinhua via Getty Images In June 2020, a bloody border clash broke out between India and China in the Ladakh regionthe deadliest since a 1962 war. Relations between the nuclear-armed neighbors plunged to their lowest level in decades. But, after four years of icy ties, the relationship is finally beginning to thaw. India and China struck a border deal last month that calls for resuming patrols in Ladakh, and for disengaging troops that restore positions to pre-crisis locations. The accord likely paved the way for an Oct. 23 meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinpinga first since the 2020 Ladakh clashon the sidelines of a BRICS summit in Russia. They pledged to strengthen communication and cooperation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These developments provide a chance to inch ties forward. New Delhi has long insisted the relationship cant improve until border tensions are eased; that precondition has now been met. The two sides can also leverage the thaw to tap more fully into existing areas of cooperation. Trade ties have remained robust despite deep tensions, and goodwill triggered by the border deal could unlock more Chinese investment in India. New Delhi and Beijing work together in many global forums, from BRICS to the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. They share many common interests, from countering terrorism and promoting multilateralism to embracing non-Western economic modelsand rejecting what they view as U.S. moral crusading around the world. A lasting detente between the two Asian giants would have far-reaching consequences, including for Washingtons strategic partnership with New Delhiwhich is fueled by the shared goal of countering Chinese power. But it could also serve as a hedge against the unpredictability of President-elect Donald Trump, should he decide to jettison his hardline approach to Beijing and seek his own rapprochement with Xia leader Trump has often praised, including as recently as last month. Yet the significance of the thaw shouldnt be overstated. Thats because India-China relations are still deeply fraught, and will likely remain so for the foreseeable future. The Ladakh deal, for instance, does little to resolve a broader India-China border dispute. The countries share a 2,100-mi. frontier, of which 50,000 square miles are disputedan area equal to the size of Greece. Additionally, mistrust between border troops remains high; traumatic memories of the Ladakh clashwhich entailed Indian soldiers getting beaten to death with iron rods, and getting flung to their deaths into icy riversstill strikes a nerve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tensions are high elsewhere, too. The mammoth Chinese Belt and Road Initiative infrastructure project, which New Delhi categorically rejects because it winds through Indian-claimed territory, remains a flashpoint. India also worries about Beijings naval power projection in the Indian Ocean, stretching eastward over a massive expanse from a Chinese naval base in Djibouti to what New Delhi believes are Chinese spy ships operating near the Andaman Sea, where India has island territories. Closer to home, New Delhi is concerned about the surveillance risks posed by Chinese technologies in India. Furthermore, India and China have strong security ties with the others main rival. Thanks to a series of foundational defense accords, the Indian and U.S. militaries are cooperating on unprecedented levels, and ramping up arms sales and technology transfers. India has now evolved into a net security provider for the U.S., providing Washington with military equipment and helping its allies counter Chinese provocations. The U.S. has even supplied intelligence to New Delhi at critical moments. For its part, Beijing continues to pursue its longstanding security alliance with Islamabad. It provides significant military aid to Pakistan, including equipment for ballistic missiles (which has produced a flurry of recent U.S. sanctions). Meanwhile, India and China also have profound differences on core issues. Beijing rejects many Indian policies in Kashmir, the disputed region thats provoked multiple India-Pakistan wars. India is strengthening ties with Taiwan, which Beijing views as a renegade province of China. The Dalai Lamathe exiled leader of Tibet, who Beijing regards as a dangerous separatisthas long been based in India. India and China are also each part of rival global forums: India participates in the Indo-Pacific Quad, while China leads BRI. Yet bilateral ties should continue to improve. Continued talks on the borderwhich have happened regularly since the Ladakh crisisto discuss other flashpoints, and to reassert mutual commitments to longstanding protocols that forbid the discharge of firearms, could help avert future escalations. The next opportunity for high-level dialogue could come this month, if Modi and Xi attend the G20 leaders summit in Brazil. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The best hope for deeper ties lies with their robust economic partnership (China was Indias top trade partner last year). Indias chief economic advisor is making the case for more Chinese FDI that could accelerate Beijings long-term plans to invest in top Indian industries. And China, with its recent economic setbacks, stands to benefit from increasing engagement with the worlds fastest-growing major economy. The incoming return of Trump could also spur more India-China business bonhomie, if their collective fear of U.S. tariffs prompts them to carve out more commercial space for themselves. Ultimately, relations will sometimes be cooperative, particularly on the economy, but theyll remain competitiveand possibly at times even confrontational. Still, even a modest India-China thaw is a good thing. The world is on fire, and it cant afford yet another crisismuch less a conflict. Write to Michael Kugelman at michael.kugelman@wilsoncenter.org. Nov 17 (NHK) - A series of farewell rites and events has begun for Japan's Princess Mikasa, who passed away on Friday. She was the widow of Prince Mikasa, a younger brother of the late Emperor Showa. The Princess, whose given name was Yuriko, died of natural causes at a hospital in Tokyo at the age of 101. She was the longest living member of the Imperial Family since the Meiji era that began in the late 19th century. Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako arrived at the residence of Prince and Princess Mikasa at the Akasaka Estate in the Japanese capital on Saturday afternoon. Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko also visited the residence by car. The Empress Emerita, who had surgery on her broken right leg last month, walked with a cane from the vehicle to the residence, while being supported by the Emperor Emeritus. Later in the day, Imperial Family members including Crown Prince and Crown Princess Akishino took part in a rite to place Princess Mikasa into a coffin and bid farewell to her. Princess Akiko, one of her granddaughters, stood near the coffin alongside Princess Takamado, the widow of Prince and Princess Mikasa's third son. A funeral and entombment ceremony called Renso-no-Gi will be held for Princess Mikasa at the Toshimagaoka cemetery in Tokyo on November 26. Members of the general public will be able to pay their respects at the site. BEIJING, Nov 17 (News On Japan) - The Chinese government is reportedly considering the resumption of the short-term visa-free travel program for visitors from Japan, allowing stays of up to 15 days. According to multiple sources, Chinese authorities have informed travel agencies and other stakeholders of the possibility that the visa waiver could be reinstated as early as this month. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, China permitted short-term visa-free travel for Japanese nationals. However, the program was suspended in March 2020 as the virus began to spread globally and has yet to be reinstated. Following the pandemic's containment, the Japanese government has been urging China to resume the program, but Beijing has so far remained noncommittal. During the Japan-China summit held on November 15th in Peru, the two countries agreed to promote greater people-to-people exchanges. Officials familiar with the matter have suggested that the summit might serve as a catalyst for the resumption of visa-free travel. Source: ANN TOKYO, Nov 17 (News On Japan) - Education groups in Japan representing 23 organizations issued an urgent statement criticizing a proposal from the Ministry of Finance to gradually raise the 'teaching adjustment allowance' to 10% as part of work reform measures. The proposal was deemed 'unrealistic,' sparking opposition from educators. On November 15th, the statement was delivered to Education Minister Toshiko Abe by representatives of groups including the National Federation of Elementary School Principals Associations. The statement argues that the Finance Ministry's plan pushes for work reforms without addressing structural issues, such as the improvement of teacher numbers, and places additional burdens on schools and local governments. It labels the plan "unrealistic" and warns it could undermine educational quality, potentially leading to the collapse of the school system. The Finance Ministrys proposal would prevent schools from providing adequate teaching services, according to the groups. In light of increasingly complex issues faced by children, they stressed the urgent need for comprehensive improvements, including increasing teacher numbers, expanding support staff, and significantly raising the teaching adjustment allowance. The Education Ministry, in contrast, has proposed an immediate increase of the adjustment allowance to 13% and improvements to teacher staffing levels. Minister Abe acknowledged the urgency of the concerns raised in the statement and pledged to continue working closely with the Finance Ministry as part of the next fiscal years budget discussions. Source: TBS TOKYO, Nov 18 (News On Japan) - A British man has been arrested on suspicion of swapping genuine cash for counterfeit money in a gold trade scam, stealing 13 million yen from a business partner, Tokyo police revealed. The arrest occurred on the morning of November 15th at the Kojimachi Police Station in Chiyoda Ward. According to the Metropolitan Police Department, in October 2023, the suspect, Joe Kupoto, 40, along with an accomplice, met with the victim and a broker at a restaurant under the guise of conducting a gold trade. The victim brought 13 million yen in cash, sealed in a paper bag, to purchase the gold. Kupoto reportedly took the cash and spent about an hour under the table counting it. During this time, he is believed to have swapped the genuine money with counterfeit bills. Afterward, he tightly taped the paper bag shut and returned it to the victim, claiming the cash would be secured until the authenticity of the gold could be confirmed. The victim and Kupoto's accomplice then left to verify the golds authenticity at a gold purchasing shop. However, midway, the accomplice excused himself, saying he had urgent matters to attend to, and left the scene. Meanwhile, Kupoto and the broker waited at a hotel. When the victim returned, Kupoto had already disappeared. It was then discovered that both the gold and the cash were fake. Kupoto has denied the allegations, telling investigators, "I have no idea what youre talking about." The investigation is ongoing. Source: FNN Chidimma Adetshina, Nigerias representative at the 73rd Miss Universe competition, has expressed deep gratitude to Nigerians and Africans for their support, which contributed to her historic achievement at Miss Universe 2024. During the final moments of the prestigious event at Arena CDMX in Mexico City on Sunday morning, a thrilling showdown unfolded between Adetshina and Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, as the two women vied for the coveted crown. In the end, Miss Denmark, Theilvig, claimed the title, succeeding Miss Universe 2023, Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua. Following the competition, Adetshina took to Instagram to share her appreciation. The beauty queen recalled how Nigerians supported her during her lowest, and how Africa as a continent taught her the power of unity in the pursuit of success. She wrote, To Nigeria: THANK YOU is not enough for all the support youve shown. You picked me up when I was at my lowest. Ive never opened up much but I was ready to give up on my life but you became my strength. On days I never wanted to fight you gave me the strength to fight. Im so grateful for each and everyone for walking this journey with me. She also addressed the African continent, saying, To Africa: thank you for showing your love and support. As much as I represent Nigeria, Africa fought for me. My voice, my story touched many and brought us together. This journey has taught me the power of Unity. I want us to live in a society where we can all accept and celebrate one another. Chidimma Adetshina concluded by emphasising that this moment marks the beginning of her journey, not its end. By Oladipo Abiola President Bola Tinubu has conferred Nigerias second highest honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), on the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. Modi was honoured with the title on Sunday during his visit to President Tinubu at the State House in Abuja. Tinubu also declared the Indian Prime Minister as a friend of Nigeria. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu honours Prime Minister @narendramodi confers him with Nigerias second highest honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) declares him friend of Nigeria, presidential media aide, Dada Olusegun wrote on his X account in confirmation of the development. Earlier, Naija News reported that President Tinubu, on Sunday, received the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, at the State House in Abuja. The Nigerian leader personally received the Indian Prime Minister at the forecourt of the Aso Rock Villa. Modi inspected a Guard of Honour, and a 21-gun salute was also made in his honour. Modis visit to Nigeria is the first by an Indian Prime Minister since Dr Manmohan Singhs state visit in 2007, when the two nations established a strategic partnership. In other news, President Tinubu has bestowed a posthumous award of the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) on the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja. Tinubu conferred the honour on Friday, during the funeral service in honour of Lagbaja, which was held at the National Cemetery in Mogadishu, Abuja. By Grace Egbo Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to seize the visit Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi to negotiate India Technology, energy, railway and other comprehensive agreements that will facilitate mutual investment in the country. The Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organization disclosed this in a statement signed by its Secretary General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro on Sunday as the India Prime Minister visited Nigeria. Ohanaeze also emphasizes the alarming statistic that over 1.3 million Nigerians are currently imprisoned across various states in India and urged President Tinubu not to overlook the challenging situation but approach it with a righteous resolve and the political will to enact meaningful change. The statement reads In part The Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, extends a warm welcome to the Honorable Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, during his historic maiden visit to Nigeriamarking the first visit from an Indian Prime Minister in 17 years. This pivotal occasion heralds a remarkable opportunity for both nations to forge stronger ties across multifaceted sectors, particularly in technology, energy, and infrastructure. In light of the socio-economic aspirations that underpin the bilateral relationship between our great nationsIndia, the worlds largest democracy, and Nigeria, the largest democracy on the African continentOhanaeze Ndigbo urges President Bola Tinubu to seize this moment to negotiate comprehensive agreements that will facilitate mutual investment. The industrious spirit of cooperation must reflect a commitment to advancing our shared economic interests, particularly in critical sectors such as mining, infrastructure, transportation systems, and railways. Indias enduring diplomatic relationship with Nigeria has spanned an impressive 66 years, beginning with the establishment of its diplomatic mission in Lagos in November 1958. This longstanding relationship is substantiated by the meaningful contributions rendered by Indian teachers, doctors, and professionals who played a pivotal role in Nigerias formative years. It is imperative that President Tinubu recognize the transformative potential of this visit: a moment to revitalize our economic framework and address Nigerias tribulations through constructive dialogue. Moreover, there are pressing humanitarian considerations that must be addressed. Ohanaeze Ndigbo emphasizes the alarming statistic that over 1.3 million Nigerians are currently imprisoned across various states in India, a situation that must not be overlooked. This represents a notable humanitarian crisis, given that India houses more Nigerian nationals in its prisons than any other country globally. These individuals include those mistakenly caught within the web of stringent immigration laws, as well as those pursuing genuine educational endeavours and medical care. Secretary General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro articulates that the organizations advocacy for these detainees is not applicable to those serving sentences for legitimate criminal convictions. Rather, our appeal is directed towards those who find themselves ensnared by issues of immigration complexities or who are victims of discrimination within the Indian societal fabric. It is our steadfast belief that President Tinubu should use this significant diplomatic channel to advocate for a reconsideration of these cases, appealing for a state pardon for the innocent and the unjustly imprisoned. In a broader context, Ohanaeze Ndigbo sees the necessity for Nigeria to actively contemplate joining the BRICS economic bloc. The potential stabilization of our Naira through trade relations with member nationsnamely Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africacould yield substantial economic benefits for Nigeria. The organization is keenly aware of the expectations of the Nigerian populace, particularly following President Tinubus attendance at the recent G20 Summit in India. This is a critical juncture for our leadership to pivot towards leveraging Nigerias economic advantages by aligning with the BRICS community. In conclusion, we surmise that Prime Minister Modis visit offers a unique opportunity, one that President Tinubu must approach with a righteous resolve and the political will to enact meaningful change. We are committed to supporting initiatives that elevate the welfare of our people and strengthen the bonds that tie our nations together. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. Together, let us embark on a journey of renewed partnership and collaboration for the betterment of our countries. By John Gabriel The Nigeria Airforce said its Operation Fansan Yamma has executed further air interdiction missions in Zamfara State, on 15 November 2024. Air Commodore Olusola F Akinboyewa, Director Public Relations and Information Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force in a statement, said the airstrikes targeted a large assembly of bandits in Babban Kauye village, situated in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State. Intelligence sources revealed that the congregation of criminals was perfecting plans for coordinated attacks against military personnel or civilians along the Tsafe axis. Upon receiving credible intelligence, the NAF launched a series of devastating airstrikes, inflicting significant casualties on the criminal elements. Reports from the ground confirmed the successful elimination of numerous high-ranking members of the bandit groups, dealing a severe blow to their operational capacity. Tsafe Local Government Area has long been a flashpoint for bandit activities, with factions loyal to Dan-Isuhu and Dogo Sule notorious for orchestrating violent assaults on local communities, security forces, and vital infrastructure. These groups have utilized remote settlements like Babban Kauye as strategic safe havens, from which they coordinate and execute their nefarious operations. The latest airstrikes represent a robust response and support for the Theatre Command of Operation FANSAN YAMMA by the NAF, aligning with broader efforts to dismantle and completely degrade bandit networks in the region, disrupt planned attacks with a view to restoring peace and stability to the embattled Northwest. The NAF remains resolute in its mission, in collaboration with sister Services and other security agencies to secure the region and indeed the nation as a whole, as we work to eliminate threats posed by terrorists, bandits and all other criminal elements working against the peace and prosperity of our beloved country. The Senate of Paraguay has voiced its unequivocal support to Moroccos territorial integrity and sovereignty, and called on the Paraguayan government to adopt the same stance. In a resolution adopted this week by the Senates plenary session, the legislative institution expressed its support for a peaceful, negotiated solution to the Sahara issue, and voiced confidence that the autonomy initiative is the only basis for achieving a peaceful, just, lasting, and mutually acceptable solution, in respect of Moroccos sovereignty and territorial integrity. This resolution is particularly significant because the Senate, in addition to supporting Morocco, is urging the Paraguayan government to adopt the same stance. The Senators are thus urging that this position be translated into official communiques and explicit support for Morocco in all international forums. This reflects the Senates strong desire to see the Paraguayan government reinforce its support for the Kingdoms sovereignty and territorial integrity, both bilaterally and in international fora. With this historic resolution, the Senate of Paraguay has taken a decisive step in support of Moroccos territorial integrity and sovereignty. This unequivocal support strengthens the deep ties of friendship and cooperation between Paraguay and Morocco. By aligning Paraguay with a growing international trend that sees the autonomy plan, under Moroccan sovereignty, as a solid path towards the final settlement of this regional conflict, this resolution helps to consolidate a climate of peace and stability in the region. Since the Moroccan Embassy was opened in Asuncion in November 2016, the Chamber of Deputies of Paraguay has adopted seven resolutions in Moroccos favor, five of which on the Sahara issue, but this is the first time that the countrys Senate has adopted a resolution on Morocco. The text of the resolution was transmitted to the President of Paraguay, Santiago Pena and to Moroccos ambassador in Asuncion, Badreddine Abdelmoumni. Photo: John Lamparski/Getty Images On paper, Pete Hegseth is an unusual choice to become the next secretary of Defense. A former Army National Guard officer who served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Guantanamo Bay, hes known mostly as a Fox & Friends host. Yet with each Donald Trump announcement Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence, Matt Gaetz for attorney general, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Health and Human Services Hegseth looks like one of Trumps more qualified nominees, though the bar, as they say, is in hell. Though Hegseths resume is light, its padded with a handful of books. In fact, his output is relatively prolific, as hes published five since 2016. Two in particular offer some insight into his ascent and how he might approach his new job. His worldview is archaic, inflected with jingoism and a love of violence. In American Crusade: Our Fight to Stay Free, he outlined his case for Trumps reelection in 2020 and drew parallels between contemporary America and the medieval era. Our present moment is much like the 11th Century. We dont want to fight, but, like our fellow Christians one thousand years ago, we must, he writes. Arm yourself metaphorically, intellectually, physically. Our fight is not with guns. Yet. Later, in 2024s The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free, Hegseth complains that the U.S. military has become too woke, too effeminate, and too vaccinated to be fit for purpose. At a basic level, do we really want only the woke diverse recruits that the Biden administration is curating to be the ones with the guns and the guidons? he writes in the introduction to The War on Warriors. But more than that, we want those diverse recruits pumped full of vaccines and even more poisonous ideologies to be sharing a basic training bunk with sane Americans. Hegseths probable ascendancy is the culmination of a yearslong ideological journey. Always conservative, he backed Florida senator Marco Rubio for president during the 2015 Republican primary, a fact he recounts with some embarrassment in American Crusade. In that book, he writes that as he watched the Left lose its mind over Donald Trumps candidacy, the light bulbs turned on: the Left hates him because they hate us! His conversion, as he calls it, loosely resembles that of J.D. Vance, who is now the vice-president-elect; once Hegseth decided he was for Trump, he was all in, much like Vance. Trump loves a groveler, and after he won in 2016, he almost nominated Hegseth to run the Department of Veterans Affairs before picking David Shulkin. (Hegseths desire to privatize the VA drew opposition at the time.) In American Crusade, he espouses a traditional masculinity and praises Trump for punching back after the Access Hollywood tape. Trump, he writes, was not playing by the rules of a game that was stacked against him and against all patriotic Americans. Hegseth never mentions the actual content of the tape or the dozens of women whod accused Trump of sexual misconduct by the time of the books publication. Elsewhere, he denied the gender pay gap is real. Women today attend college at higher rates than men. They win elections just as often as men (okay, maybe not the presidency, but that was Hillarys fault), he writes. And, yes, they make the same wages as men especially after one factors in years spent away from the workforce for childrearing, if women so choose. Photo-Illustration: Intelligencer; Covers: Amazon Hegseths views on gender are clearest when it comes to female service members. He is vehemently opposed to women serving in combat, portraying them as inferior or even distractions. In a list of simple realities, he writes that Men and women are different, with men being more aggressive, and added, A man who has a feeling toward a female and acts differently in combat gets people killed. He writes favorably of Sgt. Leigh Ann Hester, who became the first female soldier since World War II to be awarded the Silver Star after she directed her team during a firefight and killed three Iraqi insurgents. I like Leigh Ann Hester. She is an incredible soldier and did her job when it counted, he writes, only to add, Are there more Leigh Ann Hesters on the ground, shooting bad guys in our military today? What about in the last twenty years? I think we certainly would have heard about they/them by now. Over that time period, according to the Service Womens Action Network, 166 women were killed in combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. In another chapter, Hegseth claimed that women in combat forces men to ignore their civilized instincts. He went on: If you train a group of men to treat women equally on the battlefield then you will be hard-pressed to ask them to treat women differently at home. Hegseth doesnt elaborate, but seems to imply that women are responsible for the misconduct of men. On Friday, the New York Times reported that in 2017, a woman told police that Hegseth sexually assaulted her. No charges were filed, and Hegseth denies the allegation. In both books, Hegseth routinely singled out transgender service members, and trans people more generally, for ridicule, and criticized the reversal of dont ask, dont tell, the militarys former prohibition on people serving while openly gay, lesbian, or bisexual. The establishment of DADT, and then ending of DADT, were just policy footholds for radical Leftists, hell-bent on even more radical social change a full-frontal attack on almost every institution of the military, he writes in The War on Warriors. He also wants to make it easier to fire woke generals and does not believe that domestic extremism in the ranks is a real problem. In October, the Associated Press reported that more than 480 people with a military background have been accused of ideologically driven extremist crimes from 2017 through 2023, including the more than 230 arrested in connection with the Jan. 6 insurrection. Instead, Hegseth believes the real threat to America comes from the left: from Black Lives Matter protesters and antifa and socialists. In his view, modern feminists are working with trans people to destroy the country he served. While Hegseth attacks the left, he defends alleged war criminals, including Eddie Gallagher, a former Navy SEAL accused by his platoonmates of using a hunting knife to repeatedly stab a teenage captive who was receiving medical treatment, among other crimes. Though acquitted of that murder charge, the Navy demoted Gallagher and sought to expel him before Trump as president intervened. Hegseths vision of America is bleak and brutal, and its shared by many on the right including Trump. Hegseth may not be qualified for the role Trump wants to give him, but hes a perfect fit for a reactionary administration bent on cruelty and political retribution. Sign Up for the Intelligencer Newsletter Daily news about the politics, business, and technology shaping our world. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Vox Media, LLC Terms and Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us. Ofgem's fast-track funding process has enabled swift project delivery, ensuring customers can benefit from clean, affordable energy sooner. The project is expected to bolster the UK's energy security, reduce customer bills by 870 million per year, and support the UK's 2030 carbon-neutral goal. The UK government has approved a 2 billion subsea cable project (Eastern Green Link 1) to transport electricity generated from North Sea wind farms. A 2bn subsea and underground cable which will power millions of UK homes has received final funding approval today. The 196km-long Eastern Green Link 1 (EGL1) cable, which will be primarily laid under the North Sea, is expected to bolster the UKs energy security and reduce customer bills by 870m per year. The National Energy System Operator (NESO) flagged the EGL1 as essential to the UKs 20030 clean energy goals, as it will transport electricity generated from North Sea wind farms from East Lothian to Country Durham. This will be part of a broader push towards maximising domestic wind power, and away from the dependence of volatile gas markets. Communities along the cable route in Scotland and northeast England will benefit from a 7.9m social value fund. The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets,Ofgem, has helped streamline funding, saving 43m due to its new Accelerated Strategic Transmission Investment Framework (ASTI). This fast-track process has given developers early access to funds, allowing them to secure necessary materials and ensure a swift project delivery. Beatrice Filkin, Ofgems director of major proejcts, said: This means customers can reap the benefits of abundant homegrown wind faster while being increasingly shielded from volatile imported gas prices. On Ofgems role in ensuring cost efficiency, she also said: Weve built in safeguards to step in as needed for maximum customer benefit. The approval of EGL1 adheres with government policies aiming to reach a carbon-neutral power system by 2030, which has pushed demand for clean energy projects across the UK. The project will be joining 25 other infrastructure projects under Ofgems ASTI framework, designed to speed up modernisation while keeping costs down. By City AM The government of Ecuador has mandated regular power cuts to help deal with the countrys energy crisis. The blackouts in November have been lasting from 4 am to 11 am and again from 3 pm to 10 pm, reducing access to power to just a few hours a day. While Ecuadors reliance on fossil fuels is minimal compared to many other countries, the severe drought over the last year has hit the countrys hydropower sector hard. Hydropower has contributed around 70 percent of Ecuadors electricity since 2017, but production has been far lower than normal this year. There have been rolling blackouts since 23rd September, which have grown worse in November, particularly during peak demand hours. The blackouts have hit the economy hard. The Labour Ministry reports that over 3,500 jobs have been lost due to the power cuts, with small and medium businesses suffering the worst. Meanwhile, industry bodies suggest the energy crisis could have cost Ecuadors economy at least $2 billion to date. Many businesses have had to rely on diesel generators to power operations in recent months, which compromises Ecuadors reputation as a low-carbon energy country. In 2016, then-president Rafael Correa inaugurated the Chinese-built $2.2 billion Coca Codo Sinclair hydroelectric dam. It was one of eight dams planned by the Correa government, in line with plans to nationalise energy. Coca Codo alone provides around 30 percent of Ecuadors electricity needs when fully operational. However, due to construction faults, the facility is under threat of river erosion and a build-up of sediment. In addition, due to a year of severe drought, Coca Codo is running at just 30 percent capacity. The government was warned by meteorologists that the El Nino weather pattern this year would likely result in reduced rainfall in the Amazon rainforest, which is where most of Ecuadors hydroelectric dams are located. However, the longer-term threat of climate change could mean that Ecuadors hydropower facilities are hit hard by drought for years to come, demonstrating the need for greater diversification in the countrys energy mix. While the shortage of hydropower-generated electricity has exacerbated the countrys energy scarcity, several other factors have contributed to the crisis. Structural problems, including inadequate investment, poor policy decisions, slow reactions to repeated warnings, and a lack of preparation for severe weather events have resulted in a breakdown of Ecuadors energy system. Fernando Salinas, the president of the Ecuador Energy Forum, stated, The politicians were resting on their laurels, thinking Ecuadors power capacity was enough to meet the energy needs. Salinas added, There was planning, but it was not put into action. Since Coca Codo, no new major new energy projects have been developed. Meanwhile, the Latin American country has seen around a 24 percent rise in demand for energy since 2016. Correas government aimed to expand Ecuadors energy industry through the creation of the electricity master plan, a strategic framework for sectoral development. The strategy outlined plans to develop more hydropower facilities across the country, diversify the energy sector to include more solar and wind projects, and maintain thermal plants to boost backup capacity in case of droughts. However, successive governments have failed to implement the strategy. The countrys thermoelectric plants have been long neglected, with only 879MW out of a 2,020MW capacity operational in October. In April, when water levels were already extremely low, Ecuadors President Daniel Noboa declared a state of emergency for the countrys energy sector and began to implement power cuts. Noboa has since fired three energy ministers. The president has sought to tackle the crisis by using floating thermoelectric power plants, but this has only marginally boosted Ecuadors energy production. Other moves by Noboa include the reduction of taxes on imports of diesel-powered generators and batteries, as well as the creation of new incentives for private sector investment in energy projects. While greater investment in the countrys energy sector could have helped prevent the crisis, Ecuador has suffered a larger economic crisis that has made financing a diversified energy mix almost impossible. Noboa inherited a deficit of $4 billion in the budget for 2024. However, investing in thermal plants could alleviate the effects of drought in the coming years and boost Ecuadors energy security, providing the government with more time to develop other renewable energy sources. Poor policy decisions, an overreliance on hydropower and a lack of investment in the maintenance of the countrys energy infrastructure have left Ecuadors electricity sector in a state of emergency. People across the country are experiencing several hours of organised daily power cuts, which is hitting the already volatile economy even harder. Greater investment in thermal plants and the diversification of Ecuadors renewable energy mix could help ensure the countrys energy security in the coming years, but this will require high levels of private investment in the energy sector. By Felicity Bradstock for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Ancient Tablet May Reveal Location of Noah's Ark Imago Mundi in 2024. ( British Museum) In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have deciphered what is believed to be the world's oldest map--a 3,000-year-old Babylonian clay tablet that may reveal the location of Noah's Ark. The artifact, known as the Imago Mundi, has been housed in the British Museum since 1882 after its discovery in what is now Iraq. The Biblical Account According to the Bible, God commanded Noah to build a massive ark to save his family and two of every animal from a devastating flood meant to cleanse the world of wickedness. The flood lasted 150 days, after which the ark came to rest on the "mountains of Ararat." The Bible specifies the ark's dimensions as 300 cubits long, 50 cubits wide, and 30 cubits high--approximately 515 feet long, 86 feet wide, and 52 feet high. The Ancient Tablet's Secrets Dr. Irving Finkel, Assistant Keeper of Ancient Mesopotamian script at the British Museum, led the team that unlocked the tablet's secrets. The Imago Mundi depicts a circular world map showing ancient Mesopotamia at its center, surrounded by a "bitter river" that the Babylonians believed encircled the world. The tablet's most intriguing features are found on its reverse side, which contains detailed travel instructions leading to a location called "Urartu"--the Assyrian equivalent of the Biblical "Ararat." Dr. Finkel explains: "The first place you come to is called 'Urartu', it's drawn on the map. Now, the interesting thing about that is that in the Bible Noah, in his Ark, landed on a mountain where the name is 'Ararat' and 'Ararat' is the Hebrew equivalent of the Assyrian 'Urartu'." The instructions include specific measurements in "leagues" and references to a "parsiktu-vessel"--a term found in only one other Babylonian tablet, which describes the boat that survived the Great Flood. Dr. Finkel notes, "If you did go on this journey, you would see the remnants of this historic boat which saved all the life of the world for the long-term future." The Babylonian Connection The Biblical flood story closely parallels an earlier Babylonian version, where a man named Utnapishtim, rather than Noah, builds the ark at divine command. In the Babylonian account, the god Ea sends the flood, and Utnapishtim's family and the animals survive by landing at one of Urartu's peaks. Modern-Day Evidence In present-day Turkey, researchers have identified a geological formation known as the Durupinar formation that closely matches the Biblical dimensions of Noah's Ark. This 538-foot-long formation has attracted significant scientific attention: Recent investigations in 2014 and 2019 using ground-penetrating radar revealed "intriguing angular structures" not typically found in natural geological formations Scientists from Istanbul Technical University have discovered clay-like substances and marine materials in the soil Nearly 30 samples of rock and soil from the site have been dated to between 3,500 and 5,000 years old, aligning with the biblical timeline Large amounts of petrified wood have been found inside the formation Scientific Significance The Imago Mundi tablet represents one of the most significant archaeological discoveries relating to Biblical narratives. Dr. Nelson Glueck, a renowned archaeologist, has stated that "no archaeological discovery has ever controverted a Biblical reference." Similarly, Dr. John Ora Kinnaman noted that of the hundreds of thousands of archaeological artifacts discovered, none has contradicted the Bible's historical accounts. Ongoing Research While controversy persists over whether the Durupinar formation is natural or of divine origin, the site continues to attract researchers and tourists. The formation's location near Mount Tendurek, just 29 kilometers from Mount Agr's peak, makes it a focal point for both scientific investigation and religious interest. The tablet's decipherment adds another layer to the ongoing research into one of humanity's most enduring stories. As Dr. Finkel concludes, "From the Babylonian point of view, this was a matter of fact thing." The discovery not only provides potential geographical coordinates for Noah's Ark but also demonstrates the deep historical connections between Babylonian and Biblical narratives. The British Museum has released a video featuring Dr. Finkel's detailed explanation of this remarkable discovery, making it accessible to researchers and the public alike. As investigations continue, this ancient map may prove to be a crucial piece in understanding one of history's most famous accounts of survival and divine intervention. The water works from Florence residents were barely a trickle. They couldnt afford to cry when Omaha annexed it in 1917. Their city finances had the tap turned off. Much of Florences tax revenue came from the privately owned Omaha Water Works inside its city limits. In 1912, the Omaha Water Board the forefather of MUD took over the water works. As a municipal entity, the water works became tax-exempt and Florence lost more than half of its tax revenue. To operate the city and its school district meant a sizable property tax increase for Florentines. By 1916, the city was $3,000 delinquent in repaying school bonds to the state. Annexation was inevitable. A Greater Omaha encompassing South Omaha, Dundee, Florence and Omaha had been talked about since the turn of the century. Florence and Benson, also an independent city, were annexed on the same day in June 1917. The actions were delayed until high school graduations were held in the cities. Florence was flourishing when Omaha took it in. Credit better access to the big city and some light industry. Florence Boulevard replaced the pioneer wagon roads. Main Street linked up with 30th Street in Omaha. Streetcar service reached Florence in 1903. Four years before annexation, a promotional booklet of the Florence Commercial Club detailed the businesses of the city of 1,826 (1910 census): canning, basket and (two) cement block factories, two banks, four grocery stores, three feed stores, two lumber and feed yards, three saloons, two pool halls, two florists, three doctors, four attorneys, four real estate men, three barbers, the Florence Tribune weekly, the North Western rail depot and the Weber mill. The school went to the 11th grade. There were six churches. In an abridged format like this, its impossible to include everything about Florences vast and rich history. But two buildings, a park and a bridge deserve mention. House of Hope came to Florence in 1916. Started downtown by the Rev. Charles Savidge as a residence for seniors and the homeless in 1906, it moved in 1916 from a mansion north of Creighton University to 7915 N. 30th St. It was renamed the Florence Home for the Aged in 1929. A new building for the Florence Home Healthcare Center opened in 1977, with the original building occupied until 2011 and since torn down. Notre Dame Academy at 3501 State St. opened in 1926 as a boarding and day high school for girls, conducted by the Sisters of Notre Dame. Its final graduating class was in 1974 before the school merged with all-boys Rummel High to form Roncalli High. The campus, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, has been converted to senior living. Danish Vennelyst Park, at 9100 N. 31st St., dates to 1934. The Danish Venneforening (Friendship Club) and Old Peoples Home Society bought 20 wooded acres and built a dance hall (the present pavilion opened in 1970), refreshment stands and riding devices. Not until the early 1970s did the Danish Venneforening try to act on the second part of their charter, building a senior living residence. It never happened after 30th Street was relocated for the Florence interchange on the new Interstate 680 and the access road to Vennelyst made too steep for construction vehicles. The Mormon Pioneer Bridge spanning the Missouri opened on Sunday, Dec. 14, 1952 nearly a century after the charter for the Florence Bridge Co. and after attempts in 1905, 1913, 1922 and 1936. The Douglas County Board in 1950 created the Florence Bridge Commission, which named the 1,980-foot, two-lane span before construction of the $3.4 million project that included a highway link to Crescent, Iowa. The bridge crossed the river within 50 feet of the pioneers ferry crossing. It was a toll bridge until April 1979, even after a new, no-toll span for westbound I-680 traffic in 1975. More than $7.5 million was collected in tolls, with the fee increasing from a quarter in 1952 to 75 cents at the end. As they were at the dedication ceremony in 1953, Mormon leaders were present for the bridge-freeing ceremony put together by the unofficial mayor of Florence, bridge manager and former sheriff Richard Collins. The toll house, now nicknamed Dicks Place for Collins, has been relocated behind the historic Bank of Florence at 3010 Willet St. Now for telling a couple tales and putting an end to a couple of Brigham Young-related legends about early Florence. The summer of 1857 was deadly in the pioneer settlement, with a murder and a bizarre accident. On July 4, a blacksmith named Biggs stabbed and killed a man named Kingsley, the latter having been too intimate with Biggs wife. Biggs surrendered to Dr. Harsh, the mayor, who turned Biggs over to the sheriff at Omaha. The sheriff told Biggs to swim to the Iowa shore, to never be heard from again. The next month, a grand jubilee was held after the election of former territorial chief justice Fenner Ferguson to Congress. An iron cannon, which was brought out and fired, exploded, killing a Dr. Hardcastle, who had served in the Mexican-American War. Florence lore often is retold that the house that stood the longest was Brigham Youngs at Winter Quarters in 1847, and that the Mormon leader planted a cottonwood sprig that grew into a tree of great reverence for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in the town square, now Mormon Park, at 30th and State Streets. Neither is true. Among the sources is the great chronicler of Florence, the late Clyde F. Wright. The house was that of town builder James C. Mitchell, completed sometime between 1854 and 1856. (Youngs only full year at Winter Quarters was 1847, and none of its structures, including the mill, was standing when Mitchell and others resettled the area in 1854.) The Mitchell house stood until 1963, used as the manse for the Presbyterian church. Youngs home was said to be at the north end of Winter Quarters. Incidentally, when Mitchell died in 1860, his wife had a cavelike backyard mausoleum built for his body until he was buried seven years later in the Mormon Cemetery. Wright cited pioneer Dennis Lonergan for the trees history: The tree was never purposely planted here, but was a part of the pickets of a stockade that surrounded the Mormon corral, Lonergan said. The corral was built in this spot sometime early in 1847. One of the picket posts took root and that large tree was the result. The tree stood in Mormon Park until Omaha city crews trimmed it to 12 feet in 1946 after rot and insects hollowed the trunk and removed the rest of it in 1950. But does it have offspring? In 1947, about 100 shoots from the stump were to have been replanted in hopes that small trees would be shipped to Mormon headquarters in Salt Lake City or planted either in Mormon Pioneer Cemetery or the park. No further mention has been found. Maybe? That trail dried up a long time ago. Like the Florentine tears at annexation time. LINCOLN Hundreds of Nebraskans didnt have their votes counted this year because of the states new voter identification law. But election officials said the vast majority of people voting in the May primary and November general election complied with requirements to show photographic IDs before voting, whether they voted early at election offices, by mail or showed up at polling places on Election Day. Secretary of State Bob Evnen said 99.95% of voters in the primary complied with the law and had their votes counted. Officials from the states two largest counties, Douglas and Lancaster, reported a similar pattern for the general election. 'I really think it went amazingly well' Statewide numbers for the general election wont be known until late this month, after all counties report results to the state, but Evnen said last week that county election offices reported consistent voter turnout throughout Election Day with almost all voters prepared to fulfill the new voter ID requirement. Overall, I really think it went amazingly well, said Brian Kruse, Douglas County election commissioner. Voters were informed and educated. Im happy with the outcome. Still, there were people whose ballots were tossed out because they did not have an approved ID and couldnt or didnt return to show one by the deadline. Election officials rejected 98 general election ballots in Douglas County, where 270,735 ballots were cast. In Lancaster County, home to about 151,000 voters this year, 37 general election ballots were rejected for lack of proper identification. Nearly 200 primary election ballots were tossed statewide because voters did not provide an approved ID, including 142 from voters in counties or precincts with all-mail voting. The statewide general election numbers for rejected ballots are not available yet. Nebraska voters were first required to show IDs during the May 14 primary election. The requirements were put in place through a constitutional amendment voters approved in 2022 and fleshed out by a state law in 2023. Under the law, people who do not bring an approved ID to the polls are allowed to cast provisional ballots. Those ballots are counted if the voter takes an approved ID to their county election office within seven days after the election or if they certify they cannot get an ID because of one of three reasonable impediments allowed by law. Those impediments include a religious objection to being photographed, a disability or illness that prevents a person from getting an ID or the inability to get a birth certificate or other documents needed to get an ID. But this years experience showed only a minority of voters who cast such provisional ballots took the necessary steps to have their votes count, both in the primary and the general election. In Douglas County, Kruse said 23 general election voters returned with proper ID by the Tuesday deadline, while 25 had their reasonable impediment certification accepted, out of the 146 who voted provisionally for lack of ID. Among them, he said, was one woman who filed a reasonable impediment form because she had encountered delay after delay getting her birth certificate from Chicago. Lancaster County Election Commissioner Todd Wiltgen reported that 13 of 50 such voters came back with IDs. In the primary, 45 out of 236 voters statewide followed through. Kruse said he didnt know why people did not come back. His office did some checking and found seven of the 146 voters had Nebraska drivers licenses or state ID cards. But he said none of the seven responded to a phone call or came back to show those IDs. Wiltgen speculated people may not have been motivated to make the extra trip once the unofficial election results had been reported. He said none of the races in Lancaster County were close enough to be affected by those votes. Some voters, however, came back to ensure their voting history remained uninterrupted, he said. While provisional voters had the opportunity to have their votes counted, it was unclear how many Nebraskans may not have voted because of the new law. Kruse said he did not know of anyone turned away because they didnt have proper ID. Wiltgen said one Lincoln man left the polls without voting after officials refused to accept his out-of-state drivers license. He said the man had a passport, which is an approved form of ID, but he refused to go get it out of storage. He also refused to vote provisionally and got angry enough that police were called. He was not prevented from voting, Wiltgen said. He chose not to. 'One person denied access to the ballot is one too many' Heidi Uhing, director of public policy for Civic Nebraska, and Jane Seu, legal and policy counsel for ACLU of Nebraska, said their organizations fielded some calls on Election Day about poll workers incorrectly turned people away or requiring them to vote provisionally because the address on their ID did not match the voter registration rolls. Uhing said their voter hotline got a rash of calls about the issue concerning five precincts in three counties. She said they reported the issue to election officials, who alerted poll workers and the public that state law does not require current addresses on ID. Neither she nor Seu could say whether voters affected by the confusion returned to vote later. Seu said the possibility that some may have missed their chance to vote is concerning. One person denied access to the ballot is one too many, she said. Several Nebraskans made use of options included in the voter ID law for getting free identification cards to vote. The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles has issued 14,957 free state ID cards in 2024, while the Department of Health and Human Services issued 78 free birth certificates to people seeking IDs to vote. But DMV Director Rhonda Lahm said she could not identify how many people who got free ID cards sought them so they could vote. As of July 1, the state-made ID cards are free to any citizen who is a Nebraska resident, instead of just to those needing a card to vote. The rich heritage of Mongolian ethnic costumes in Ordos, a city of north China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region, stands as a precious intangible cultural legacy that illuminates the traditions of the Mongolian ethnic group. Behind these stunning and expertly crafted garments lie the artistry of generations who have woven each thread by hand. Mongolian ethnic costumes on display in Meng Genhua's workshop, Inner Mongolia, China, Nov. 8, 2024. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn] Among them, Meng Genhua from Otog Front Banner, a district of Ordos, has emerged as a renowned local ethnic costume designer, becoming a familiar name throughout her community. Journalists visited Meng's workshop on Nov. 7, eager to understand her deep connection to this cherished cultural heritage. Inside her workshop, an array of ethnic costumes catches the eye. The garments range from magnificent to understated, each exuding a strong local character. From exquisite patterns to unique buttons, every detail embodies meticulous craftsmanship and ingenuity. Mongolian ethnic costumes on display in Meng Genhua's workshop, Inner Mongolia, China, Nov. 8, 2024. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn] Meng, now 68, grew up in a modest herdsman's family. Reflecting on her journey in ethnic costume making, she credited her passion to the early influence of her parents, both tailors. Her fascination with Mongolian attire began in her teens when she learned the craft that would shape her future. The path aligned naturally with her cultural heritage. Meng's dream of starting a costume business materialized in 1985 with the opening of a small clothing workshop. Faced with initial challenges, such as limited customers and funds, she offered her creations at low prices. Her exceptional craftsmanship soon drew a growing clientele. As her reputation grew, she became a leading ethnic costume designer in the region. Gradually, she also took on the role of promoting and preserving the rich heritage of Ordos Mongolian costume culture. Determined to revive the "zhuge" an elaborate Mongolian headdress nearly lost to time Meng consulted over a dozen local artisans. Her decade-long dedication paid off in 1995 when she successfully recreated the traditional craft, sparking regional enthusiasm. Meng Genhua shows and introduces the "zhuge," Inner Mongolia, China, Nov. 8, 2024. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn] Meng earned recognition in 2012 as a representative inheritor of Ordos' intangible cultural heritage. She began offering free annual training in clothing design, tailoring and handicraft skills to laid-off workers and rural migrants, helping develop more than 100 skilled female artisans. Understanding that cultural preservation must evolve with the times, Meng has visited many places to study contemporary fashion trends. She skillfully integrates Ethnic Mongolian design elements into modern apparel, bridging traditional motifs with contemporary aesthetic preferences. Her passion for ethnic costumes has inspired her daughter Sarula, who transitioned from art teaching to sharing her design expertise at Otog Front Banner Vocational High School in 2017. "Growing up, I was always taught to use the sewing machine by my mother's side," Sarula recalled. "Her love for our cultural garments deeply inspired my own." Meng Genhua and her daughter Sarula talk about their experiences and insights on promoting ethnic costumes, Inner Mongolia, China, Nov. 8, 2024. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn] With a hopeful smile, Sarula added, "Looking ahead, I aim to innovate further, creating designs that accommodate diverse body types." Today, Meng continues her devoted pursuit of sharing and preserving the mesmerizing art of Mongolian ethnic costumes, inspiring not only the people of Ordos but also aspiring designers to cherish and perpetuate this unique aspect of China's ethnic Mongolian cultural heritage. Zimbabwe is aiming to diversify its export portfolio to China as trade volumes between the two nations continue to grow, a senior official has said. "Currently, our horticulture exports primarily target markets in the European Union and Britain. We are now looking to diversify, particularly focusing on exporting fruits and vegetables to the Middle East and Asian markets, including China, Malaysia and Indonesia," said Similo Nkala, director of operations at ZimTrade, Zimbabwe's trade promotion agency, on Friday. A significant milestone in Zimbabwe-China trade relations was achieved in 2022 when the two countries signed a citrus deal, allowing Zimbabwean companies to export fresh citrus to China. "We have also recently signed a trade protocol for avocado exports, which is a major step toward diversifying our export markets," Nkala told Xinhua. "Discussions are ongoing for additional trade protocols, including those for blueberries, sesame and chilies." Bilateral trade between Zimbabwe and China has surged in recent years, reflecting the strengthening ties between the two countries. According to the Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe, trade grew by 25.6 percent in the first nine months of 2024, reaching 3 billion U.S. dollars. Zimbabwe exported 2.1 billion dollars worth of goods to China while importing 951 million dollars, resulting in a trade surplus of about 1 billion dollars. Zimbabwe enjoys a competitive edge in agriculture due to its fertile land, favorable climate and soil conditions, Nkala said. "There is significant potential to increase our horticulture exports, particularly fruits and vegetables, to the Chinese market." He added that Zimbabwean exporters could improve their competitiveness in the vast Chinese market by consolidating consignments to meet demand efficiently. Zimbabwean leather producers have also gained traction in China. During the 2024 China International Import Expo (CIIE), local companies secured many orders, particularly for high-demand leather products. The business exhibition of the world's first national-level exposition dedicated to imports has attracted about 3,500 exhibitors from 129 countries and regions this year. Notably, a record high of 297 Fortune 500 companies and industry leaders are attending the six-day expo that concluded on Nov. 10 in Shanghai. And more than 400 new products, new technologies and new services are unveiled. "I have seen firsthand during trade fairs in China that our leather products, are in high demand," Nkala said. Arts and crafts are another promising sector for Zimbabwean exporters. Nkala said that artists participating in the CIIE generated over 500,000 dollars in business. "The potential is there, especially in arts and crafts, and it remains largely untapped," he added. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Photographs of an anthogorgiid host from Kashiwajima, Kochi. Galleries and burrows are highlighted in blue and yellow, respectively. Yellow arrows indicate burrow openings. Credit: Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences (2024). DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2024.1780 A small team of marine scientists from the University of the Ryukyus, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology and the Kuroshio Biological Research Foundation, has found that a worm species thought to be missing since 1957 has been appearing in photographs taken by citizen scientists for several years. In their paper published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B, the group describe their analysis of photographs appearing on the iNaturalist citizen science website and what they learned from them. The work by the team began when a friend of one of the researchers gave them a piece of coral they had retrieved on a recent diving expedition. After taking it back to their lab for study, the team found it was crawling with worms. After studying the worms, they found them to be Haplosyllis anthogorgicola. It was relatively easy to tell which corals were inhabited by the worms because of the burrowing lines they made on their surface. They also noted that the worm species had only been observed and reported in a science journal one time. Since that time, no other sightings or studies had been recorded in academic journals. Remembering that pygmy seahorses are a popular photographic target of tourists diving among corals, the researchers began searching for pictures of them on the iNaturalist websitea place where tourists or amateur scientists can post pictures of creatures or things related to science or research efforts. In so doing, they found that many of the pictures of seahorses had images of H. anthogorgicola in the background. The worms had been photobombing the seahorses for many years, it turns out. Thus, the worm had never gone into hiding or disappeared, it had simply been forgotten about by marine scientists. In studying the images of the worms and their burrows, the research team found that they were living in multiple sites across Asia and that their numbers were plentiful. In all, they found that the worms appeared in approximately three-quarters of all the seahorse pictures they examined. They also found evidence suggesting that the worms were helping the coral by cleaning up floating debris. More information: Chloe Julie Lois Fourreau et al, The Trojan seahorse: citizen science pictures of a seahorse harbour insights into the distribution and behaviour of a long-overlooked polychaete worm, Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences (2024). DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2024.1780 Journal information: Proceedings of the Royal Society B 2024 Science X Network The biggest downtown redevelopment project in memory or perhaps in history is intended to breathe new life into the quaint heart of Swedesboro, Gloucester County. The $23 million Nyckel Apartments project will include two buildings with a total of 73 market-rate rental units, as well as 6,500 square feet of ground-floor retail space along Kings Highway, the boroughs main street. The apartments will be one- and two-bedroom units, with monthly rents ranging from $2,000 to $3,000. The property will include 100 or more parking spaces. This was probably our last opportunity to have some control over what happens on a huge open space downtown, Mayor Thomas W. Fromm said. The complex will occupy about two acres, including the site of a plastic packaging business that sat vacant for more than a decade until being demolished to make way for the new construction. Our goal was to find the right developer to build apartments and retail so we can grow our existing businesses and attract new businesses, said the mayor, 69, whos been in office since 2003 and has pushed for downtown redevelopment since 2007. Andrew Crossed, the managing partner of Park Grove Realty, a development firm headquartered in Rochester, N.Y., said: We go to communities where were wanted, and Swedesboro has been a really big advocate of this project. So it made a lot of sense for us to be there. The prospect of more people and stores downtown is raising hopes among some Kings Highway businesses, while sparking concerns for others. On heels of Mosley killing, NJ changes laws to combat home invasions and burglaries New Jersey has codified two new crimes that will come with harsher penalties for individuals breaking into homes, Attorney General Matthew Platkin said Thursday. The vitality of downtown is picking up, and everyones excited about the new buildings, said florist Amy Uricher, 55, the owner of Petals & Paints on Kings Highway. Having more people walking around would be a positive thing, said Karen Morrison, the proprietor of the Sweetsboro Pastry Shoppe, also on Kings Highway. But without resolving the off-street parking issue, [the project] is going to be a boondoggle, said Gerry Siglow, board president of the faith-based nonprofit that operates two downtown thrift shops called Kings Things. Lots of history but too few lots? In a nod to Swedesboros rich heritage, Park Grove named its downtown project to honor the Kalmar Nyckel. In the 1600s, the famous tall ship transported Swedes and Finns to the New Sweden Colony in what is now the Philadelphia region. The Scandinavians settled on the hunting and fishing grounds of the Lenape people and established what is now Swedesboro circa 1638. After the 498-acre borough was incorporated in 1902, it developed into a regional downtown, complete with the Shoemaker Opera House, which was renamed the Embassy Theater and showed movies until 1950. In recent years, Swedesboros downtown which contains a rich mix of commercial, residential, sacred, and institutional architecture has evolved into something of a dining destination. What the mayor described as a really cool mix of restaurants large and small have opened or expanded, including those offering Chinese, Indian, and Mexican cuisines. Cooper names Armed Forces Persons of the Year: Hometown briefs Jim Baca and Samantha Millspaugh have been named Cooper University Health Care's Armed Forces Persons of the Year for 2024. I dont want to be negative about parking because I think [the development] is a positive thing, Morrison said. But if someone is driving by and wants to stop, but they dont see anywhere to park, thats an issue. Said Uricher: I feel confident the parking situation will work itself out. The borough is working on more parking, and the [development] itself will have some parking for the public. Deep skepticism Nevertheless, many comments on local social media sites expressed doubt about Swedesboros ability to provide enough parking for the demand the development may generate. During an interview, Siglow, whose two thrift shops have been Kings Highway mainstays for 40 years, said that without more parking, theres just not going to be a very viable retail community in downtown Swedesboro. Not only are there too few off-street parking lots, theres often too much traffic on Kings Highway for those in search of street parking to slow down and get a spot, he said. Look, were a nonprofit. But anything that impacts businesses downtown is important to me, said Siglow, estimating that at least 50 additional off-street parking spaces are needed. Crossed said the podium parking underneath the two apartment structures, as well as surface parking on the development site, would be sufficient to accommodate tenants, customers, and employees of the street-facing retail spaces, and the public. Fromm said the borough has purchased property along Second Street and will build two surface parking lots with a total of about 30 spaces. Change-of-venue motion for 5 charged in Cumberland Detective Sgt. Mosley's murder to be heard next week A change-of-venue motion in the cases of five people charged in the murder of Cumberland County Prosecutor's Office Detective Sgt. Monica Mosley is scheduled to be heard next week. People generally can find a place to park downtown without going too far, he said. The Second Street lots are going to enhance that availability. Market forces at work Although smaller in population and farther from Philadelphia than inner ring suburbs on either side of the Delaware, Swedesboro like Swarthmore and Bristol Borough in Pennsylvania and Haddon Township in South Jersey is being recognized by developers as a potential market for multifamily housing. The nationwide shortage of new housing also plays a role. Were finding the younger demographic is renting longer and buying homes later, said Crossed, adding that young professionals as well as empty nesters are likely tenants. Until recently a lot of developers havent focused on smaller towns, said Collingswood Mayor Jim Maley, who serves as redevelopment counsel to Swedesboro. But over time, their prominence has grown a bit in terms of the value developers are seeing in them. Even the big retailers are doing smaller-scale developments in smaller, walkable places. On the rise? With new restaurants and well-attended community events, including a food truck festival and dancing in the park, the center of Swedesboro already is trending up, Morrison said. A building north of me was torn down, and they built condos there, she said, adding, were up and coming, but were still quaint and friendly. Walking along Kings Highway with a friend last week, Lauren Petitti, 43, a caregiver and borough resident, said Swedesboro really does have a homey feeling. Its old, and thats the beauty of it, she said. People walk past the logo of APEC 2024 outside the Lima Convention Center in Lima, Peru, Nov. 13, 2024. (Xinhua/Mariana Bazo) Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for efforts to steer economic globalization in the right direction, jointly promoting a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization to the benefit of various countries and communities. In a written speech addressing the APEC CEO Summit 2024 on Friday, Xi said the entire Asia-Pacific is deeply woven into the fabric of economic globalization, and is now an interdependent community with common interests and a shared future. On the other hand, the world is in a new period of turbulence and transformation, said Xi, warning that the grave challenge of economic globalization is like sailing up a river -- we either forge ahead or drift downstream. "Where will the Asia-Pacific economy be going? It is a decision we must make," Xi said. Economic globalization is an objective requirement of growing social productive forces, and a natural outcome of advancement in science and technology, he said, adding that despite headwinds and undertows, economic globalization has always been the general trend. The attempt to block economic cooperation under all sorts of pretexts and break up the interdependence of the world is nothing but backpedaling, Xi said. Tougher times call for greater confidence, said the Chinese president. "We should see to it that economic globalization generates more positive outcomes and is taken to a new phase that is more dynamic, inclusive and sustainable." "First, we should take innovation as the driving force for stronger growth of the world economy," Xi said. He said advances in science and technology should benefit the entire humanity. "We should help developing countries with their capacity building in science and technology and promote global flow of knowledge and technologies." "Second, we should keep pace with the times and reform the system of global economic governance," he said. He added that the principles of "plan together, build together and benefit together" should be followed, the representation and voice of the Global South should be enhanced continuously, and all countries should be ensured of equal rights, equal opportunities and equal rules in conducting international economic cooperation. Xi called for building an open world economic system, and efforts to keep the global industrial and supply chains stable and smooth. "Third, we should always take the people-centered approach and seek to settle imbalances in development," he said. Global prosperity and stability cannot be achieved when the rich get richer and the poor poorer, Xi said, noting true development means common development of all countries. "We should pursue economic globalization that is people-centered and delivers more balanced development and more equal opportunities, so that different countries, classes and communities can all benefit from development," he said. This photo shows the logo of APEC 2024 in Lima, Peru, Nov. 13, 2024. (Xinhua/Mariana Bazo) Asia-Pacific economies have maintained robust growth and created the remarkable Asia-Pacific miracle, Xi stressed. "The success of the Asia-Pacific is due to our firm commitment to peace and stability in the region, to our continuous practices of true multilateralism and open regionalism, and to our deep faith in the trend toward economic globalization as well as mutual benefit and mutual success," he said. Xi said the Asia-Pacific should remain the locomotive of economic globalization in the future. "While further burnishing the Asia-Pacific hallmark of openness and inclusiveness, we should make new brand-building efforts to foster a green and digital Asia-Pacific, build an Asia-Pacific community with a shared future, and usher in another 30 golden years of development for our region," he said. During the Third Plenary Session of its 20th Central Committee in July, the Communist Party of China adopted a comprehensive plan for further deepening reform across the board to advance Chinese modernization, said Xi. China will deepen reform comprehensively and continue to provide robust momentum for the world economy, Xi noted, adding the country has full confidence in meeting the growth targets for this year and remaining the biggest engine of world economic growth. Noting that China will advance high-quality development and continue to lead the efforts to improve the performance of the world economy, he said China will continue to nurture new quality productive forces in line with actual conditions, and is committed to high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. China will stay firmly on the path of green development and continue to be an important force for global green transition and an important part of the global effort to address climate change, Xi said. He said China will build new, open and higher-standard economic systems, continue to share China's development opportunities with the world, introduce more policies for voluntary and unilateral opening up, expand its globally oriented network of high-standard free trade areas, and open its door even wider to the world. Xi noted that China's development is inseparable from the Asia-Pacific, and it will in turn further benefit the region. "As long as we act in the spirit of openness and connectivity, the vast Pacific will become a thoroughfare for more prosperity and growth," he said, calling for joint efforts to enhance solidarity and cooperation, stand up together to the global challenges, and form a mighty force for the common prosperity of the world and a brighter future for humanity. MINNEAPOLIS (AP) On the last night of their lives, Jagdish Patel, his wife and their two young children tried to slip into the U.S. across a near-empty stretch of the Canadian border. Wind chills reached minus 36 Fahrenheit (minus 38 Celsius) that night in January 2022 as the family from India set out on foot to meet a waiting van. They walked amid vast farm fields and bulky snowdrifts, navigating in the black of an almost-moonless night. The driver, waiting in northern Minnesota, messaged his boss: Make sure everyone is dressed for the blizzard conditions, please. Coordinating things in Canada, federal prosecutors say, was Harshkumar Patel, an experienced smuggler nicknamed Dirty Harry. On the U.S. side was Steve Shand, the driver recently recruited by Patel at a casino near their Florida homes, prosecutors say. The two men, whose trial is scheduled to start Monday, are accused of being part of a sophisticated human smuggling operation feeding a fast-growing population of Indians living illegally in the U.S. Both have pleaded not guilty. Over the five weeks the two worked together, documents filed by prosecutors allege they spoke often about the bitter cold as they smuggled five groups of Indians over that quiet stretch of border. 16 degrees cold as hell, Shand messaged during an earlier trip. They going to be alive when they get here? On the last trip, on Jan. 19, 2022, Shand was to pick up 11 more Indian migrants, including the Patels. Only seven survived. Canadian authorities found the Patels later that morning, dead from the cold. In Jagdish Patel's frozen arms was the body of his 3-year-old son, Dharmik, wrapped in a blanket. Dreams of leaving India The narrow streets of Dingucha, a quiet village in the western Indian state of Gujarat, are spattered with ads to move overseas. Make your dream of going abroad come true, one poster says, listing three tantalizing destinations: Canada. Australia. USA. This is where the familys deadly journey began. Jagdish Patel, 39, grew up in Dingucha. He and his wife, Vaishaliben, who was in her mid-30s, lived with his parents, raising their 11-year-old daughter, Vihangi, and Dharmik. (Patel is a common Indian surname and they are unrelated to Harshkumar Patel.) The couple were schoolteachers, local news reports say. The family was fairly well off by local standards, living in a well-kept, two-story house with a front patio and a wide veranda. It wasnt a lavish life, said Vaibhav Jha, a local reporter who spent days in the village. But there was no urgent need, no desperation. Experts say illegal immigration from India is driven by everything from political repression to a dysfunctional American immigration system that can take years, if not decades, to navigate legally. But much is rooted in economics, and how even low-wage jobs in the West can ignite hopes for a better life. Those hopes have changed Dingucha. Today, so many villagers have gone overseas legally and otherwise that blocks of homes stand vacant and the social media feeds of those who remain are filled with old neighbors showing off houses and cars. That drives even more people to leave. There was so much pressure in the village, where people grew up aspiring to the good life, Jha said. Smuggling networks were glad to help, charging fees that could reach $90,000 per person. In Dingucha, Jha said, many families afforded that by selling farmland. Satveer Chaudhary is a Minneapolis-based immigration attorney who has helped migrants exploited by motel owners, many of them Gujaratis. Smugglers with ties to the Gujarati business community have built an underground network, he said, bringing in workers willing to do low- or even no-wage jobs. Their own community has taken advantage of them, Chaudhary said. The pipeline of illegal immigration from India has long existed but has increased sharply along the U.S.-Canada border. The U.S. Border Patrol arrested more than 14,000 Indians on the Canadian border in the year ending Sept. 30, which amounted to 60% of all arrests along that border and more than 10 times the number two years ago. By 2022, the Pew Research Center estimates there were more than 725,000 Indians living illegally in the U.S., behind only Mexicans and El Salvadorans. In India, investigating officer Dilip Thakor said media attention had led to the arrest of three men in the Patel case, but hundreds of such cases dont even reach the courts. With so many Indians trying to get to the U.S., the smuggling networks see no need to warn off customers. They tell people that its very easy to cross into the U.S. They never tell them of the dangers involved, Thakor said. U.S. prosecutors allege Patel and Shand were part of a sprawling operation, with people to scout for business in India, acquire Canadian student visas, arrange transportation and smuggle migrants into the U.S., mostly via Washington state or Minnesota. On Monday, at the federal courthouse in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, Patel, 29, and Shand, 50, will each face four counts related to human smuggling. Patels attorney, Thomas Leinenweber, told The Associated Press his client came to America to escape poverty and build a better life and now stands unjustly accused of participating in this horrible crime." Shand's attorney's did not return calls seeking comment. Prosecutors say Shand told investigators that Patel paid him about $25,000 for the five trips. His final passengers, though, never made it. The last night By 3 a.m. on Jan. 19, 2022, the 11 Indian migrants had spent hours wandering in gusting snow and brutal cold trying to find Shand. Many were in jeans and rubber work boots. None wore serious winter clothing. Shand, though, was stuck. Prosecutors allege he had been heading to the pickup spot in a rented 15-passenger van when he drove into a ditch roughly a half-mile (0.8 kilometers) from the border. Eventually, two migrants stumbled across the van. Sometime later, a passing pipeline company worker pulled the vehicle from the ditch. Soon after that, a U.S. Border Patrol agent, on watch for migrants after boot prints were found near the border, pulled over Shand. Shand repeatedly insisted there was no one else outside, even as five more desperate Indians wandered to the vehicle from the fields, including one going in and out of consciousness. They had been walking for more than 11 hours. There were no children among the migrants, but one man had a backpack filled with toys, childrens clothes and diapers. He said a family of four Indians asked him to hold it, because they had to carry their young son. Sometime in the night they had become separated. Hours later, the Patels' bodies were found just inside Canada, in a field near where the migrants had crossed into the U.S. Jagdish was holding Dharmik, with daughter Vihangi nearby. Vaishaliben was a short walk away. Hemant Shah, an Indian-born businessman living in Winnipeg, some 70 miles (110 kilometers) north of where the migrants were found, helped organize a virtual prayer service for the Patels. He's accustomed to hard winters and cant fathom the suffering they endured. "How could these people have even thought about going and crossing the border? Shah said. Greed, he said, had taken four lives: There was no humanity. LIMA, Peru (AP) Chinas leader Xi Jinping met for the last time with U.S. President Joe Biden on Saturday but was already looking ahead to President-elect Donald Trump and his America first policies, saying Beijing is ready to work with a new U.S. administration." During their talks on the sidelines of the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Peru, Xi cautioned that a stable China-U.S. relationship was critical not only to the two nations but to the future and destiny of humanity. Make the wise choice, he cautioned. Keep exploring the right way for two major countries to get along well with each other. Without mentioning Trumps name, Xi appeared to signal his concern that the incoming presidents protectionist rhetoric on the campaign trail could send the U.S.-China relationship into another valley. China is ready to work with a new U.S. administration to maintain communication, expand cooperation and manage differences so as to strive for a steady transition of the China-U.S. relationship for the benefit of the two peoples, Xi said through an interpreter. Xi, who is firmly entrenched atop Chinas political hierarchy, spoke forcefully in his brief remarks before reporters. Biden, who is winding down more than 50 years of public service, talked in broader brushstrokes about where the relationship between the two countries has gone. He reflected not just on the past four years but on the decades the two have known each other. We havent always agreed, but our conversations have always been candid and always been frank. Weve never kidded one another, Biden said. These conversations prevent miscalculations, and they ensure the competition between our two countries will not veer into conflict. Biden urged Xi to dissuade North Korea from further deepening its support for Russias war on Ukraine. The leaders, with top aides surrounding them, gathered around a long rectangle of tables in an expansive conference room at a Lima hotel. They had much to discuss, including Chinas indirect support for Russia, human rights issues, technology and Taiwan, the self-ruled democracy that Beijing claims as its own. On artificial intelligence, the two agreed on the need to maintain human control over the decision to use nuclear weapons and more broadly improve safety and international cooperation of the rapidly expanding technology. Theres much uncertainty about what lies ahead in the U.S.-China relationship under Trump, who campaigned promising to levy 60% tariffs on Chinese imports. Already, many American companies, including Nike and eyewear retailer Warby Parker, have been diversifying their sourcing away from China. Shoe brand Steve Madden says it plans to cut imports from China by as much as 45% next year. In a congratulatory message to Trump after his victory over Vice President Kamala Harris, Xi called for the U.S. and China to manage their differences and get along in a new era. In front of cameras Saturday, Xi spoke to Biden but it was unmistakable that his message was directed at Trump. In a major flourishing sci-tech revolution, neither decoupling nor supply chain disruption is a solution, Xi said. Only mutual, beneficial cooperation can lead to common development. Small yard, high fence is not what a major country should pursue. Biden administration officials have said they would advise the Trump team that managing the intense competition with Beijing will likely be the most significant foreign policy challenge they will face. On Saturday, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said Biden had reinforced to Xi that these next two months are a time of transition" and that the president would like to pass off the U.S.-China relationship in stable terms to the new administration. Biden has viewed his relationship with Xi as among the most consequential on the international stage and put much effort into cultivating it. The two first got to know each other on travels across the U.S. and China when both were vice presidents, interactions that both have said left a lasting impression. They last met a year ago on the APEC sidelines in Northern California. For over a decade, you and I have spent many hours together, both here and in China and in between," Biden said. Weve spent a long time dealing with these issues. But the last four years have presented a steady stream of difficult moments. The FBI this week offered new details of a federal investigation into Chinese government efforts to hack into U.S. telecommunications networks. The initial findings have revealed a broad and significant cyberespionage campaign aimed at stealing information from Americans who work in government and politics. Sullivan said Biden raised the matter with Xi during their talks and that the U.S. will have more to say about the investigation in the weeks ahead. U.S. intelligence officials also have assessed China has surged sales to Russia of machine tools, microelectronics and other technology that Moscow is using to produce missiles, tanks, aircraft and other weaponry for use in its war against Ukraine. And tensions flared last year after Biden ordered the shooting down of a Chinese spy balloon that traversed the United States. Biden wants Xi to step up Chinese engagement to prevent an already dangerous moment with North Korea from further escalating. Biden, along with South Korean President Yoon Seok Yul and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, on Friday condemned North Korean leader Kim Jong Uns decision to send thousands of troops to help Moscow repel Ukrainian forces who have seized territory in Russias Kursk border region. White House officials have expressed frustration with Beijing, which accounts for the vast majority of North Koreas trade, for not doing more to rein in Pyongyang. The North Koreans also have provided Russia with artillery and other munitions, according to U.S. and South Korean intelligence officials. And the U.S., Japan and South Korea have expressed alarm over Pyongyangs stepped-up cadence of ballistic missile tests. Kim ordered testing exercises in the lead-up to this months U.S. election and is claiming progress on efforts to build capability to strike the U.S. mainland. Xi and Biden started their day at the leaders retreat at the APEC summit, taking part in a photo where they all wore scarves made from vicuna wool, a symbolic animal for Peru. Its common practice that leaders at these gatherings are given a gift usually traditional clothing of the host country that they don for the photo. LONDON/VIENNA (Reuters) -Russia told Austria on Friday it will suspend gas deliveries via Ukraine on Saturday, in a development that signals a fast-approaching end of Moscow's last gas flows to Europe. Russia's oldest gas-export route to Europe, a pipeline dating back to Soviet days via Ukraine, is set to shut at the end of this year. Ukraine has said it will not extend the transit agreement with Russian state-owned Gazprom in order to deprive Russia of profits that Kyiv says help to finance the war against it. Moscow's suspension of gas for Austria, the main receiver of gas via Ukraine, means Russia will now only supply significant gas volumes to Hungary and Slovakia, in Hungary's case via a pipeline running mostly through Turkey. In contrast, Russia met 40% of the European Union's gas needs before Moscow's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer said Gazprom's notice of ending supplies was long expected and Austria has made preparations. "No home will go cold ... gas-storage facilities are sufficiently full," he told reporters. Gazprom declined to comment. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, writing on X, said Russia's action showed it "once again uses energy as a weapon". But Austria, he said, would find a way to ensure energy security and "reject blackmail". "The era of Europe relying on Russian gas is over," he said. Time to fully cut Russian energy profits -- and war funding." OMV, Austria's biggest energy supplier, said it has been preparing for the eventual cut-off of Russian gas and can deliver gas to its customers by importing via Germany, Italy and the Netherlands. Austria's gas imports from Russia will end following a contractual dispute between Gazprom and OMV. In a notice published on the central European gas hub platform, OMV said Gazprom told it supply would stop on Saturday. EUROPEAN COUNTRIES ADAPT Gazprom's move may fan concerns in Austria about heating through the winter and served as Moscow's rebuke to its political class since the Russia-friendly Freedom Party was cut out of coalition talks after winning Austria's election in September, said Ulrich Schmid, a professor of Eastern European studies at the University of St. Gallen. European and global gas prices spiked following a drop in Russian pipeline supplies in 2022 but some European countries found alternative sources, including liquefied natural gas from the United States. The U.S. has become the world's top gas producer and is expected to expand production. Austria was one of the first western European countries to buy Russian gas when the Soviet Union signed a gas contract in 1968, months before the Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia. Germany was also heavily reliant on Russian gas before the war, but shipments ceased when the Nord Stream pipelines under the Baltic Sea were blown up in 2022. Russia's notice of ending gas supplies to Austria came as Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany held their first phone conversation since December 2022. Russia was ready to look at energy deals if Berlin was interested, the Kremlin said. "It was emphasized that Russia has always strictly fulfilled its treaty and contractual obligations in the energy sector and is ready for mutually beneficial cooperation if the German side shows interest in this," the Kremlin said. Russia shipped some 15 billion cubic metres of gas via Ukraine in 2023, about 8% of peak Russian gas flows to Europe via various routes in 2018-2019, according to data compiled by Reuters. In 2023, the Ukraine transit route met 65% of gas demand in Austria and its eastern neighbours Hungary and Slovakia, according to the International Energy Agency. Ukraine has said it doesn't plan to extend the transit agreement into 2025. Hungary no longer receives much gas via Ukraine and imports volumes via the TurkStream pipeline that runs along the bed of the Black Sea. Slovakia still receives Russian gas via Ukraine. Gazprom's move showed Russia flexing its muscles at the West as pressure builds for a ceasefire in Ukraine, said Schmid at the University of St. Gallen. Russia likely felt emboldened after Donald Trump won the U.S. presidency this month pledging to quickly end the Ukraine war, he added. EU energy commissioner Kadri Simson told Reuters on the sidelines of a UN climate conference in Azerbaijan that all EU countries receiving gas via the Ukraine route have access to other supply sources that could fill the gap. "We have been very clear that alternative supply is available and there is no need for the continuation of Russian gas transiting via Ukraine to Europe," Simson said. The European benchmark price for gas edged down 0.63 euro to 45.72 euros per megawatt hour at the trading close. Nava Thakuria Guwahati: The voting under by-polls in six assembly constituencies of Assam and Meghalaya, conducted to fill up the vacant seats (as the respective legislators had shifted their focus to the national politics after winning the recently conducted Lok Sabha polls), ended largely peacefully on Wednesday evening with a satisfactory over 70% voters' turn out. The fate of all candidates is stored in the electronic voting machines, which will be opened on 23 November next. Along with these seats, by-polls for over 40 assembly constituencies (along with two Lok Sabha seats) in other parts of India are on the card along with the State assembly elections in Maharashtra and Jharkhand before the counting day. Assam's Samaguri assembly constituency remained in the media headlines for wrong reasons since the poll date was announced by the Election Commission of India. Frequent tussles between the supporters of various political parties were reported from the constituency in central Assam. Political violence even claimed the precious life of a BJP supporter and left many others injured. An incident of firing was also reported from Mari Puthikhaiti village targeting Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator Jitu Goswami. Three journalists were also allegedly intimidated by the Congress supporters. No doubt, a number of claims and counter-claims were raised by both the ruling BJP and opposition Congress leaders. Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, also in charge of the State home portfolio, criticized the opposition Congress for resorting to violence under cover of darkness to frighten the BJP workers. The saffron leader however asserted that no one will be allowed to sabotage or undermine the democratic process in the State. It was responded to by the Congress leaders alleging that the BJP workers were creating troubles to garner support for their candidate in the by-polls. Samaguri assembly seat, represented by Congress veteran Rakibul Hussain for five consecutive terms, was vacated after he won Dhubri LS constituency (defeating AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal by over 10 lakh votes). Now Hussain wants to hand over the Muslim majority Samaguri constituency to his young son Tanzil Hussain. The ruling BJP also fielded a young leader and incidentally Diplu Ranjan Sarma was the only non-Muslim candidate in Samaguri as other parties (including Aam Aadmi Party) batted for minority leaders for the by-polls. As the Muslim-centric AIUDF avoided the electoral race in Samaguri, it's expected to be a frontal battle between the Congress and BJP candidates there. Dholai (SC) and Behali seats continue to be favourable for the ruling party, where the first one was vacated by Parimal Suklabaidya to fight successfully in LS polls from Silchar Parliamentary constituency and the second one was left by Ranjit Dutta to fight for Sonitpur LS seat fruitfully. The BJP has fielded Nihar Ranjan Das in Dholai (contested by Congress candidate Dhrubajyoti Purkayastha and others) and Diganta Ghatowal in Behali assembly constituency (electorally challenged by former saffron leader Jayanta Bora, Asom Sanmilita Morcha supported CPI(ML) candidate Lakhikanta Kurmi and others). Sidli (ST) assembly seat was vacated by Jayanta Basumatary (United Peoples' Party-Liberal) to get elected from Kokrajhar LS seat. Now Nirmal Kumar Brahma is fighting to retain the seat for the BJP ally against the challenges primarily from Congress nominee Sanjib Warle and Bodoland People's Front (BPF) candidate Suddha Kr Basumatary. Another important ally to the ruling BJP alliance Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) put Diptimoyee Choudhury for Bongaigaon seat against Brajenjeet Sinha of the Congress. A recent talk show, telecast by a Guwahati-based satellite news channel DY365, discussed various electoral issues reflecting in Assam ahead of the by-polls in five constituencies. Anchored by senior television journalist Snigdha Sikha, the show highlighted different perspectives of elections in the State with a serious observation that the electoral system in India needs an urgent reform. Joining the discussion, aired live and repeated telecast next day, this writer argued that all five assembly constituencies needed the polls as the legislators participated in the last general elections successfully and shifted their focus to the Parliament. It could have been evaded if the political parties prevented these legislators from fighting in the national polls till term is over. Senior media personality Adip Phukan expressed serious concern over the incidents of pre-poll violence in the State, which was otherwise unheard of across the region. He also remained critical to AGP leader Phani Bhusan Choudhury who had recently won from the Barpeta LS seat and thus a by-election was necessitated in his assembly constituency Bongaigaon. But surprisingly, the AGP put Choudhury's wife as the party nominee in the by-polls. Phukan lamented that Choudhury represented Bongaigaon assembly constituency for four decades together and when it was time to hand over the responsibility to another party leader he (also the leaders of AGP) could repose faith on a house wife only. Not only Choudhury, the same tendency was shown by Meghalaya chief minister Conrad K Sangma also, as he put his wife Mehtab Chandee Agitok Sangma in the by-polls for Gambegre assembly constituency in Garo hills locality. National People's Party (NPP) nominee Mehtab Chandee is challenged by the Congress candidate Jingjang Marak, BJP nominee Bernard Marak, Trinamool Congress candidate Sadhiarani Sangma etc. The by-election became necessary as the influential legislator Saleng A Sangma of the Congress joined the Lok Sabha as its member from Tura Parliamentary constituency (defeating CM Sangma's sister Agatha in the last general elections). Similarly, the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) won both the seats scheduled for by-polls in the tiny State as the opposition candidates withdrew their nominations. State chief minister Prem Singh Golay's son Aditya (Tamang) Golay won from Soreng-Chakung assembly seat as his lone opponent Prem Bahadur Bhandari of Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF, led by former CM Pawan Kumar Chamling) preferred not to contest. On the other hand, Namchi-Singhithang seat went to SKM nominee Satish Chandra Rai as lone opposition candidate Danial Rai of SDF left the race. The 32-member Sikkim legislative assembly is now fully dominated by the SKM with no space for the opposition. Jhapa Nepal, November 25, 2024: A wild elephant has taken the life of a middle age man in Jhapa district. Min Bahadur Bhattarai, 45 has been killed after a wild elephant attacked him in Deepjyoti village-3 of Damak Municipality. It is said that the man was attacked at around 2 a.m. last night. Before killing him, the wild elephant had chased away around a hundred meters while he had attempted to chase away to the wild elephant entered in the settlement. This photo taken on Sept. 30, 2024 shows a Windrose truck undergoing a road testing in Copenhagen, Denmark. (Windrose Technology/Handout via Xinhua) With the advent of electric trucks, the global landscape of heavy-duty trucks has changed, and China has emerged as a competitive player, according to Han Wen, founder and CEO of Windrose Technology, a Chinese electric long-haul truck start-up. In the past, the core technology of traditional heavy-duty trucks -- internal combustion engines -- was predominantly controlled by Europe and the United States. As a result, European and American markets were less inclined to choose heavy-duty trucks manufactured in China, said Han. However, the landscape has changed with the advent of electric trucks. The essential components such as batteries, electric motors and electric drive systems, as well as intelligent driving, are areas where China excels, the CEO said, identifying his start-up as "the first Chinese truck company to have received orders from developed economies like Europe and the United States, as well as the first Chinese truck company to test on four continents." China has boasted a burgeoning new energy vehicle (NEV) industry. According to official data, the NEV market share in China was just above 1 percent in 2015 but has since surged thanks to an expedited green transition of the Chinese economy. The change of landscape in global heavy-duty truck sector is illustrated by recent inroads made by Chinese heavy truck manufacturers in expanding their global presence and cooperation. Han said that Windrose Technology has established production facilities in the United States and Belgium, and it has obtained the world-manufacturing ID (WMI) in both locations. Deliveries in the United States will begin in the first half of 2025, and deliveries in Europe will start in the second half. Windrose Technology has so far received orders from European countries such as Denmark, Belgium and France, as well as the United States and New Zealand. It is also planning to expand into the German market soon and to set up a factory in France producing truck parts. This photo taken on Nov. 1, 2024 shows a Windrose truck undergoing a road testing in Sydney, Australia. (Windrose Technology/Handout via Xinhua) So far, Windrose trucks have completed cross-regional and multi-route road tests in 14 countries and regions, including China, Europe, the United States and Australia. In another development, Garrett Motion Inc. and China National Heavy Duty Truck Group Co., Ltd. (Sinotruk) signed a Letter of Intent to enhance cooperation on advanced technologies for electric commercial vehicles, aiming to jointly develop a leading next-generation electric powertrain for application in Sinotruk's product portfolio. They also aimed to join forces and start mass production of trucks equipped with this e-powertrain by 2027. Sinotruk's heavy-duty trucks have enjoyed an extensive global market, particularly in Belt and Road partner countries. In 2023, it exported 130,100 heavy trucks, a 47 percent year-on-year surge. The company has made strides in the new-energy sector in recent years, developing pure electric, fuel-cell and hybrid heavy trucks. Speaking of the reasons for choosing Chinese electric heavy-duty trucks, Han noted that when people purchase electric passenger vehicles, their personal preferences of brands, aesthetics and interior design weigh in their decision-making. However, when it comes to electric heavy-duty trucks, it is the sheer performance and functionality of the vehicles that matter. For that reason, Chinese electric heavy trucks and electric buses, targeted at the business-to-business market, boast rosier export prospects, according to Han. Windrose's electric heavy trucks surpassed their European and U.S. competitors with a range of up to 670 kilometers and lower energy consumption. Furthermore, its vehicles offer approximately 50 percent more interior space than traditional fuel-power trucks. "Not only are we providing a cleaner truck, we are also providing a really cheaper truck," Han said in a previous interview. Promoting a green shift in the auto industry is the trend going forward. The quest for emission reductions in large global businesses has created market demand for electric heavy-duty trucks, which is a boon for Chinese electric truck front-runners. "Our clients are large global enterprises, such as Nike and Decathlon, who require the use of electric trucks for their global transportation operations. This provides us with the opportunity to deliver goods for them globally," Han said. Police shut down another counterfeit money scheme Mexicali, Baja California Police in Baja California have arrested two people and seized hundreds of thousands in counterfeit cash. The arrests and seizures were made during a private home property search Friday in the city of Mexicali. The State Attorney General of the Republic (FGR) reported seizing more than $286,000 USD and 885,000 pesos in cash, both of which were found to be fake. The Attorney Generals Office (FGR), through its Federal Prosecutors Office in the State of Baja California, seized 885,250 counterfeit pesos and $286,450 counterfeit USD at a home in Mexicali, they reported. According to their investigation, Municipal Police officers arrested two people trying to make a deposit with counterfeit cash at a convenience store in the Prohogar neighborhood. Upon their arrest, they were found with six 500 Mexican peso bills (torn), 33,100 counterfeit pesos and $12,530 counterfeit dollars as well as 154,336 legitimate Mexican pesos, the FGR reported. After the attempted deposit of counterfeit cash, an investigation was launched. A judge issued a search warrant that was executed by the Federal Public Ministry (MPF) and elements of the Criminal Investigation Agency (AIC). Police located the counterfeit money as well as a bill counting machine, a multifunctional printing machines and a scanner. They also seized the home. Two people were arrested. It is the second time in as many months that authorities have reported counterfeit currencies around the country. In October, Mexican federal officials reported charging members of what turned out to be a currency counterfeiting network in Mexico City. Authorities in Quintana Roo have not reported any of that counterfeit money making its way into the state. Many people share a nostalgia for the rich, classic flavor of tomatoes from their childhood. This longing is largely due to modern breeding techniques that prioritize high yields, often at the expense of the genetic factors that contribute to a tomato's taste. However, a Chinese team has found a way to genetically release the tomato's sugar brake without sacrificing yield. This exciting development means that sweeter and juicier tomatoes may soon be making a comeback in supermarkets. The researchers from the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences conducted taste tests on over 100 varieties of tomatoes and identified 33 flavor compounds that affect consumer preferences. Then, they analyzed the content of these flavor compounds in more than 400 tomato samples from around the world and conducted genomic sequencing. This led to the discovery of 49 genes that influence flavor, including two that regulate sugar content. By simply knocking out two genes, the glucose levels in the fruits saw an increase of up to 30 percent. This modification could also have a similar effect on the glucose and fructose levels of mass-produced tomatoes. As a result, suppliers can sell sweeter tomatoes without having to worry about a decrease in fruit weight or yield, according to the study published in the journal Nature this week. The result raises the possibility of "using the great genetic diversity existing in wild species, which has been partially lost in domesticated varieties, to improve modern varieties," commented Christophe Rothan, a fruit biologist at the French National Institute of Agricultural Research, in a viewpoint article. It is also an important step forward in "understanding how fruits produce and store sugar," according to the article. Care and Feeding is Slates parenting advice column. Have a question for Care and Feeding? Submit it here. Dear Care and Feeding, My ex boyfriend has a 17-year-old daughter he shares custody of and to whom he is a phenomenal father. Her mom is fairly absent, and borders on neglectful. Because of this, my exwith whom I still have a tentative friendshiphas encouraged my relationship with his daughter. The trouble is that he is pretty conservative in his views, and as great a dad as he is in many ways, he is also a typical guy when it comes to things like her reproductive cycle (the girl needs to be on birth control to alleviate some serious PMS symptoms, but neither parent has made it happen and she continues to suffer every month). I know she feels she cant talk to her dad about this, or about anything else that has to do with her body. She surely isnt going to talk to him about sex. I recently semi-stocked up on morning-after pills through my work flexible spending account (for obvious reasons), and I am wondering what the best way would be (or if there is a way) to reach out to the daughter to let her know that she can come to me for assistance on this front if ever she needs it. I dont want to undermine his parenting, but I also understand that her ending up in a situation where she needs this kind of help is likely to be something shed be too scared to talk to him about. I just want to do what is best for her and her future. Her dad seems to think that he has all this covered, but its obvious to me that he doesnt. The Ex Dear Ex, Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont know, Dad might be wiser than you think. He is encouraging her relationship with you, even though you two are no longer dating. Presumably, he knows you and knows where you stand. While he might be unwilling to consider the possibility that his child is sexually activeor ever will bemy guess is that it would not come as a great surprise to him that you think otherwise. In any case, I think you can advocate for her when it comes to relieving her PMS symptoms (Listen, friend, you really need to get her to a doctor to see if anything can be done for hershe is suffering) and if he finds this too embarrassing to talk about, you can offer to take her to the doctor yourself. Hell just likely need to sign some straightforward paperwork with her doctors office consenting to it (we dug into those logistics recently in another column). Advertisement But I dont think its your place to offer her the morning-after pill if she ever needs it if she hasnt asked you for this kind of help. I think thats overstepping. What you can do is tell her (meaningfully, sincerely, and often) that she can count on you. You know, dont you, that you can come to me for anything, anytime. Im here for you. No judgment, just support. And whatever else you need. Thats all you have to say. If youre a good friend to her, and you make sure she knows youre a safe person for her to talk toor run tothen if she ever needs your help, shell ask for it. Get parenting advicesubmit a question! Please keep questions short (<150 words), and dont submit the same question to multiple columns. We are unable to edit or remove questions after publication. Use pseudonyms to maintain anonymity. Your submission may be used in other Slate advice columns and may be edited for publication. Thanks! Your question has been submitted. Dear Care and Feeding, * Your letter signoff Your pronouns Your email (optional and confidentialplease include if you're open to Care and Feeding following up) Submit Dear Care and Feeding, Even though this is not a parenting question, I still need to ask: How can we make sense of whats happening in our country, and how can we have hope in light of it? I could turn this into a parenting question, of course, but really its a question for all of us. Im trying not to read about politics right now, since it is so painful, but I would really love to hear your answer. Desperate for Hope Dear Desperate for Hope, Advertisement Advertisement I dont know that we can make sense of whats happening. We can tell ourselves storiesboth terrifying ones and sort-of-but-not-that-comforting ones. But what good does this storytelling do? The terrifying explanationsthat many millions of people in this country are racist, misogynistic, homophobic, xenophobic, callous, ignorant, and cruel; or that people are so beguiled by the idea of a strongman, theyre willingeven eagerto dismiss all of the above and more; or, maybe, because they have so isolated themselves in an echo chamber of false narratives, they have no idea who and what they were really voting for (this is not an inclusive list of terrifying possibilities)well, these serve only to pitch us farther into despair. Advertisement Advertisement The not-so-comforting explanations (for example, that many people voted for the guy who was talking to them about the economy because theyre just worried about paying their bills) are in fact also terrifying, because they imply that nothing else matters to those voters. And if the vote went down this way even in part because of the economy, the illogic of this is so confounding, it can be of no comfort to the rest of us. Advertisement So I say: Put aside trying to make sense of it for now. Instead, focus on finding hope amid the ruins, and on finding ways to cope with your fear, anxiety, and grief. And I know you said your question wasnt about parenting, but for parentsI know you know thiseverything life throws at us is also about parenting, because we need not only to find ways to cope, to take action, and to feel hopeful about the future, but to model the same for our children. Since I answered a question last Sunday about how to help children through whats happening right now, today Im concentrating on the grown-ups. Advertisement The best way forward, I believe, is through meaningful action. Action will mean different things to everyone, of course (and the big moves, like running for a local office, say, or the less splashy but still crucial ones, like accompanying people who are undocumented to court dates and serving as their translatorto offer up a couple of concrete examplesmay not be moves we can make until weve let ourselves mourn and begin to recover from mourning). But by action I also mean small, ordinary, day-to-day acts that may not feel like action, but are. For example: I am part of a large community of people of all ages (literally: we range in age from 14 years old to late 70s), straight and queer, cis and trans, American-born and not, and at every point along the economic spectrum. Many of us see each other every day at the dance studio where we all take classes, and lately, we have been hugging more than usual, squeezing one anothers hands as we say goodnight after class, asking each other how we are and really listening to the answer. I feel safe, loved, and even hopeful when Im around these folks. I do what I can to make them feel safe and loved too. I also recommend smiling at strangers, thanking the bus driver as you get off the bus, and asking how you can help if you see someone struggling. Advertisement Advertisement For me, meaningful action also means finding ways to make a difference in peoples lives with the resources I have. I know what Im best at and what Im not very good at or am uncomfortable doing (Im good with people; Im useless at organizing and I cannot bring myself to knock on doors). I try to be of use, and being of use makes me hopeful. Because Im lucky enough to be part of an extraordinary arts and service organization, its easy for me to find those opportunities. Our prison arts program, our programming for immigrant and refugee children from more than 25 countries, and our work with people with disabilities and those who have experienced significant physical and/or mental health trauma and live at or below the poverty line renew my hope when it flags. Ive worked with children in foster care and with adults transitioning from homelessness; Ive provided pro bono college application advising and Ive run a book club at a drop-in center for teenagers who are homeless. All of this gives me hope, even as I do what I can to offer hope to others. I urge you to find opportunities to make a difference in your own neck of the woods, using the skills and gifts you have. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I confess that there was a time when I felt certain that the kind of service I now perform regularly was a drop in an unfillable bucket. I began my volunteer work skeptically, if not cynically. What Ive learned over the many years since is that I was right about the unfillable bucket but not because the need is so vast and deep that its pointless for one person to try to do anything at allbut because this bucket is unfillable the way our hearts are, the way our lives are. There is always more room and more to do. Drop by drop, everything we do makes a difference. At the risk of sounding saccharine, I will add that ordinary acts of kindness make a bigger difference than you can imagine. Tell people you love them, and demonstrate that in ways that are clear to them. Reach out to people who are just as afraid asor more afraid thanyou are, and let them know youre there to help and offer support, or even just sit beside them for a while if thats what they need. Be gentle and serve as a soft place for others to land in this hard world. All of this will help. I promise. Advertisement As will this, I think: a crib sheeta somatic resilience mini tool kitfrom social worker, somatic therapist, and writer Kai Cheng Thom, who proposes doing: One physical action that supports your body to feel resourced. One sentence, saying, or quote that helps you to feel hopeful. One thing that you can ask for from others when youre struggling. One compassionate action you offer to those around you when they are struggling. One small way to contribute to positive social change. Ill offer another resource before I closea newsletter about using grief as a tool for resistance. My own child (a grown woman and a therapist) shared this with me the day after the election. It helped us both. I hope it helps you too. And one more suggestion: Make a donation, if you can afford it, to the ACLU and other organizations that are in place and ready for the fight ahead. Advertisement Catch Up on Care and Feeding Missed earlier columns this week? Read them here. Discuss this column in the Slate Parenting Facebook group! Dear Care and Feeding, I need advice on how to set boundaries with a daycare employee. My baby recently started attending a mid-sized daycare facility. Its been a fantastic fit for us and the daycare has been accommodating and attentive. One of the employees, Melissa, has taken a special liking to my son; he seems to have taken a liking to her as well. I didnt think anything of it when she told my partner and me, in separate conversations, that she was available to babysit if needed. She and I exchanged phone numbers, and I figured there wouldnt be communication outside of daycare unless I initiated it. Turns out, I shouldnt have made that assumption. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since then, she has been texting me on a near-daily basis. At first, it was just a stray comment here or there that I could like or ignore. But last week, she texted saying that my son was one of the kids in the daycare that she connected to the most and asked if she could have him over sometime. This made me very uncomfortable. I texted back to say that we dont go out much, but that we would let her know if we needed her help. I thought that would be the end of it. But she has since texted again asking if he could come over for a couple of hours. Were weirded out by this and dont know how to address it. I think she means well, and I also want my child to have good relationships with his caregivers and teachers. But this is a grown woman asking to hang out with a baby. How do we delicately balance things out in a way that keeps these two connected but also prevents my baby from being kidnapped? New Boundaries Required Dear Boundaries, Advertisement Tell her, Im sorry, but the baby doesnt do playdates yetId add a crying-laughing emojiand leave it at that. And I would never, ever, have her babysit. Daycare workers are so grossly underpaid that I hesitate to suggest that you speak to her supervisor. But if she asks again, Im afraid youre going to have to. Relay what you have said here and tell them that the intense desire to care for him after hours is making you uncomfortable. They may be able to switch your childs room and caregiverand can keep an eye on the situation. This whole thing weirds me out, too. Michelle More Advice From Slate My husband announced a few weeks ago that he is not fulfilled by our life together or by being a dad, and he plans to quit his job and spend some undefined period of time separated and finding himself abroad, away from our family. This came up in the middle of a conversation about trying to figure out how we can afford new childcare costs that are squeezing our budget. For a 2,500-year-old religion, Buddhism seems remarkably compatible with our scientifically oriented culture, which may explain its surging popularity here in America. Over the last 15 years, the number of Buddhist centers in the United States has more than doubled, to well over 1,000. As many as 4 million Americans now practice Buddhism, surpassing the total of Episcopalians. Of these Buddhists, half have post-graduate degrees, according to one survey. Recently, convergences between science and Buddhism have been explored in a slew of booksincluding Zen and the Brain and The Psychology of Awakeningand scholarly meetings. Next fall Harvard will host a colloquium titled Investigating the Mind, where leading cognitive scientists will swap theories with the Dalai Lama. Just the other week the New York Times hailed the rapprochement between modern science and ancient [Buddhist] wisdom. Four years ago, I joined a Buddhist meditation class and began talking to (and reading books by) intellectuals sympathetic to Buddhism. Eventually, and regretfully, I concluded that Buddhism is not much more rational than the Catholicism I lapsed from in my youth; Buddhisms moral and metaphysical worldview cannot easily be reconciled with scienceor, more generally, with modern humanistic values. For many, a chief selling point of Buddhism is its supposed de-emphasis of supernatural notions such as immortal souls and God. Buddhism rejects the theological impulse, the philosopher Owen Flanagan declares approvingly in The Problem of the Soul. Actually, Buddhism is functionally theistic, even if it avoids the G word. Like its parent religion Hinduism, Buddhism espouses reincarnation, which holds that after death our souls are re-instantiated in new bodies, and karma, the law of moral cause and effect. Together, these tenets imply the existence of some cosmic judge who, like Santa Claus, tallies up our naughtiness and niceness before rewarding us with rebirth as a cockroach or as a saintly lama. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Western Buddhists usually downplay these supernatural elements, insisting that Buddhism isnt so much a religion as a practical method for achieving happiness. They depict Buddha as a pragmatist who eschewed metaphysical speculation and focused on reducing human suffering. As the Buddhist scholar Robert Thurman put it, Buddhism is an inner science, an empirical discipline for fulfilling our minds potential. The ultimate goal is the state of preternatural bliss, wisdom, and moral grace sometimes called enlightenmentBuddhisms version of heaven, except that you dont have to die to get there. Advertisement The major vehicle for achieving enlightenment is meditation, touted by both Buddhists and alternative-medicine gurus as a potent way to calm and comprehend our minds. The trouble is, decades of research have shown meditations effects to be highly unreliable, as James Austin, a neurologist and Zen Buddhist, points out in Zen and Brain. Yes, it can reduce stress, but, as it turns out, no more so than simply sitting still does. Meditation can even exacerbate depression, anxiety, and other negative emotions in certain people. The insights imputed to meditation are questionable, too. Meditation, the brain researcher Francisco Varela told me before he died in 2001, confirms the Buddhist doctrine of anatta, which holds that the self is an illusion. Varela contended that anatta has also been corroborated by cognitive science, which has discovered that our perception of our minds as discrete, unified entities is an illusion foisted upon us by our clever brains. In fact, all that cognitive science has revealed is that the mind is an emergent phenomenon, which is difficult to explain or predict in terms of its parts; few scientists would equate the property of emergence with nonexistence, as anatta does. Advertisement Much more dubious is Buddhisms claim that perceiving yourself as in some sense unreal will make you happier and more compassionate. Ideally, as the British psychologist and Zen practitioner Susan Blackmore writes in The Meme Machine, when you embrace your essential selflessness, guilt, shame, embarrassment, self-doubt, and fear of failure ebb away and you become, contrary to expectation, a better neighbor. But most people are distressed by sensations of unreality, which are quite common and can be induced by drugs, fatigue, trauma, and mental illness as well as by meditation. Advertisement Advertisement Even if you achieve a blissful acceptance of the illusory nature of your self, this perspective may not transform you into a saintly bodhisattva, brimming with love and compassion for all other creatures. Far from itand this is where the distance between certain humanistic values and Buddhism becomes most apparent. To someone who sees himself and others as unreal, human suffering and death may appear laughably trivial. This may explain why some Buddhist masters have behaved more like nihilists than saints. Chogyam Trungpa, who helped introduce Tibetan Buddhism to the United States in the 1970s, was a promiscuous drunk and bully, and he died of alcohol-related illness in 1987. Zen lore celebrates the sadistic or masochistic behavior of sages such as Bodhidharma, who is said to have sat in meditation for so long that his legs became gangrenous. Advertisement Advertisement Whats worse, Buddhism holds that enlightenment makes you morally infalliblelike the pope, but more so. Even the otherwise sensible James Austin perpetuates this insidious notion. Wrong actions wont arise, he writes, when a brain continues truly to express the self-nature intrinsic to its [transcendent] experiences. Buddhists infected with this belief can easily excuse their teachers abusive acts as hallmarks of a crazy wisdom that the unenlightened cannot fathom. Advertisement But what troubles me most about Buddhism is its implication that detachment from ordinary life is the surest route to salvation. Buddhas first step toward enlightenment was his abandonment of his wife and child, and Buddhism (like Catholicism) still exalts male monasticism as the epitome of spirituality. It seems legitimate to ask whether a path that turns away from aspects of life as essential as sexuality and parenthood is truly spiritual. From this perspective, the very concept of enlightenment begins to look anti-spiritual: It suggests that life is a problem that can be solved, a cul-de-sac that can be, and should be, escaped. Advertisement Some Western Buddhists have argued that principles such as reincarnation, anatta, and enlightenment are not essential to Buddhism. In Buddhism Without Beliefs and The Faith To Doubt, the British teacher Stephen Batchelor eloquently describes his practice as a method for confrontingrather than transcendingthe often painful mystery of life. But Batchelor seems to have arrived at what he calls an agnostic perspective in spite of his Buddhist trainingnot because of it. When I asked him why he didnt just call himself an agnostic, Batchelor shrugged and said he sometimes wondered himself. Advertisement Advertisement All religions, including Buddhism, stem from our narcissistic wish to believe that the universe was created for our benefit, as a stage for our spiritual quests. In contrast, science tells us that we are incidental, accidental. Far from being the raison detre of the universe, we appeared through sheer happenstance, and we could vanish in the same way. This is not a comforting viewpoint, but science, unlike religion, seeks truth regardless of how it makes us feel. Buddhism raises radical questions about our inner and outer reality, but it is finally not radical enough to accommodate sciences disturbing perspective. The remaining question is whether any form of spirituality can. Gabfest Reads is a monthly series from the hosts of Slates Political Gabfest podcast. Recently, Emily Bazelon talked with Stephanie Gorton about how two women, Margaret Sanger and Mary Ware Dennett revolutionized how the country thinks about birth control. This partial transcript has been edited and condensed for clarity. Emily Bazelon: I want to ask you how the agenda of the women working on birth control either differs or intersects with the suffragist movement, because were about to get to 1919 and the moment when the 19th Amendment passes and women get the right to vote, and there is obviously suffragist activism going on with that regard. And one might imagine that these groups would be closely allied, but thats not really the case, right? Stephanie Gorton: Thats right. Dennett was at the center of the suffrage movement at that time, and one thing that really frustrated her about establishment suffragists was how conservative they were. They were unwilling to talk about fertility control as a plank in their agenda. They were very focused on excluding Black suffragists from their events and from their rallies. Beyond asking for the vote, they really did not want to ruffle any feathers. They were fine with prevailing ideas about feminine ignorance and submission in marriage. So, because the suffrage movement so actively avoided acknowledging or supporting the birth control movement, they were sort of seen as very separate. But interestingly, I think Dennett always pitched birth control as something that women would turn to after suffrage had been won. I think she envisioned that, once women had the vote, a big united block of women would turn to birth control. Thats not what ended up happening. In the fall of 1915, Margaret Sanger comes back to New York. Shes gone off to Europe because she is fearing prosecution for violating the Comstock Act. The Comstock Act makes it a crime to send, through the mail, any material on birth control or actually anything thats considered obscene, which is a broad category. So, shes in trouble; she leaves for Europe; she comes back and she goes to the National Birth Control League and to Dennett, particularly, expecting her support. But thats not what happens. Why does Dennett back away from Sanger at that point? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is where the rift between them really begins, and its a rift that is never fully repaired through their lifetimes. Dennetts response was that a close tie to Sangerwho had broken the law and fled the country to evade trialwould be detrimental to the birth control movement that Dennett had so painstakingly been trying to build. She was trying to build credibility in her lobbying work, and being closely allied to someone who is a firebrand and a lawbreaker, she thought, would reflect badly on her. And so, Dennett was always convinced that existing systems would eventually work in her favor if she made her case persuasively enough. Advertisement And Sanger understandably thought that was incredibly privileged and bourgeois as a point of view. She wanted to provoke a real crusade. And to her, breaking the law was a means to an end. It was a means to publicity, to provoke test cases where the legality of birth control could be argued in court. But Dennett and Sanger never agreed on that point, even though the effectiveness of Sangers methods ended up being proven. Sanger provokes these early legal confrontations, she goes on trial, she gets acquitted, there are these fiery protests. Shes really using this to galvanize the public behind her and also educate people about birth control. And Dennett, as you say, has this more play-by-the-rules set of ideas. And yet, interestingly, in terms of what they are seeking in change in the law, its Dennett who has the more radical view of what the law should be and Sanger who is being more incremental and piecemeal. Can you talk a little bit about their different approaches to legislation that would legalize birth control? Absolutely. Sanger started out really allied with the radical socialists and anarchists like Emma Goldman in New York City. But in 1917, she changed tack pretty drastically, and she announced to her own birth control league that she had launched called the American Birth Control League. Their primary goal was to legalize birth control so that doctors and nurses could prescribe it. And that was quickly revised to doctors only or the doctors-only path or doctors-only compromise is what Dennett called it. And I think Sanger did this for a number of reasons. She was really pragmatic, and she saw that she would need men on her side, specifically men of science, in order to make birth control palatable to politicians. Advertisement Advertisement Dennett hated this compromise because she thought that restricting birth controlwhich meant, at that time, diaphragms or douches to only be accessible via a doctors prescriptionwould exclude poor and rural women entirely. She was against any kind of gatekeeping. Instead, she envisioned a kind of FDA-style approval process for birth control methods that came to market. So over time, this was the issue that kept them apart, that kept them from uniting and joining forces. Even after Dennett retreated from Washington and Sangers lobbying campaign began, Dennett persistently kind of needled Sanger with letters urging her to end the doctors-only compromise, arguing again and again that it would just perpetuate paternalism in medicine, and itd be less equitable for poor and rural women. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241117/biden-wants-to-set-trump-up-with-ukraine---expert-1120908668.html Biden Wants To Set Trump Up With Ukraine - Expert Biden Wants To Set Trump Up With Ukraine - Expert Sputnik International John Mearsheimer is a proponent of offensive realism in international relations and has been a vocal critic of NATO expansion for decades. 2024-11-17T08:18+0000 2024-11-17T08:18+0000 2024-11-17T08:18+0000 world russia-nato showdown joe biden donald trump ukraine https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/09/17/1120255593_0:0:3062:1722_1920x0_80_0_0_90eacd938daf0cf517abb57b1f5b454c.jpg The Biden administration is ramping up aid for the Kiev regime with the goal of keeping them fighting until Donald Trump is sworn into office, so that the Republicans and him would be blamed for the loss of Ukraine, believes international relations scholar John Mearsheimer. If Ukraine collapses after he [Trump] is president, he will be accused of having lost Ukraine, right? This is why the Democrats, the Biden administration, are doing everything possible to prop up the Ukrainians now. However, the Ukrainian army is already collapsing - not only physically but also psychologically. If you are a Ukrainian soldier, your morale is already down in the dumps. The news that Trump has been elected and is going to cut off aid in all meaningful ways in the future can only lead to even greater despair. And one would think this is at some point gonna lead to the cracking of the Ukrainian military. It is just hard to believe that they are going to continue fighting when their principal benefactor is bailing out on them. Earlier, Joe Bidens administration pledged to supply the Kiev regime with the last of over $6 billion in military assistance before Trump is inaugurated. President-elect Donald Trump repeatedly slammed the US stance towards the Ukrainian crisis and promised to cut spending on Kiev.Russian officials repeatedly slammed Western military supplies to the Kiev regime and stressed that they only fuel the conflict and raise escalation risk with no chance to affect the ultimate course of the special military operation. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241116/trump-team-to-write-off-project-ukraine-as-sunk-cost---analyst---1120901066.html ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sergey Lebedev Sergey Lebedev News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sergey Lebedev john mearsheimer, nato expansion, aid for the kiev, ukrainian army, ukrainian crisis, western military supplies, president-elect donald trump https://sputnikglobe.com/20241117/german-mp-expects-criticism-at-home-over-his-trip-to-russia-1120911025.html German MP Expects Criticism at Home Over His Trip to Russia German MP Expects Criticism at Home Over His Trip to Russia Sputnik International German Bundestag deputy and member of the EU affairs committee Dr Rainer Rothfuss expects condemnation of his trip to Russia after return to Germany. 2024-11-17T16:18+0000 2024-11-17T16:18+0000 2024-11-17T16:18+0000 world rainer rothfuss donald trump olaf scholz russia germany nato bundestag european union (eu) us https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/08/18/1112856658_0:171:3035:1878_1920x0_80_0_0_10efb046d586ce0da75687c5dc89dfc7.jpg German Bundestag deputy and member of the EU affairs committee Dr Rainer Rothfuss expects condemnation of his trip to Russia after return to Germany.Rothfuss told Sputnik on the sidelines of the symposium on cooperation between BRICS and the EU hosted by Russias Sirius Federal Territory that the threats expose problems in his country,"I will wait for this pressure. I think that this condemnation exposes the problems that exist in our country," Rothfuss said."I have always argued about how one can be against dialogue with representatives of a country that, even if not directly, is at war with us as part of NATO. It is necessary to stop this war," he added.Rothfuss noted that Germans have been told that there can be no dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin, but they no longer believe that .US presidential-elect Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin could strike a deal which would include neutrality for Ukraine after brief talks, Rothfuss said. "After short negotiations, they could have agreed on what Biden refused guarantees of Ukraine's neutrality. Not for 20 years, but forever."He added that Trump alone will not be able to end the conflict the entire West must stop supplying arms to Ukraine. Rothfuss also stressed that Russia is not looking for a short-term solution to the conflict, but for the certainty that it will not happen again.Rothfuss argued that the crisis within the Germany's coalition government was the consequence of the change of power in the US and Donald Trump's election victory, as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government takes its orders from Washington."This is a good sign, it won't be worse than under the Biden, Obama or Clinton administrations," he added. "These periods witnessed interference in domestic affairs of other countries."Rothfuss noted that the Trump administration will focus on the US national interest and interfere less in the internal affairs of Russia, China and Germany creating an opportunity to improve relations with Russia. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241107/german-president-agrees-to-call-snap-election-if-parliament-votes-no-confidence-in-scholz-1120808931.html russia germany ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International german bundestag deputy and member of the eu affairs committee rainer rothfuss, exposes problems in his country, trip to russia https://sputnikglobe.com/20241117/israeli-intel-caught-netanyahu-spox-leaking-top-secret-gaza-war-doc-court-confirms-1120914676.html Israeli Intel Caught Netanyahu Spox Leaking Top-Secret Gaza War Doc, Court Confirms Israeli Intel Caught Netanyahu Spox Leaking Top-Secret Gaza War Doc, Court Confirms Sputnik International Israels State Attorneys Office announced on Sunday that it would file charges against Netanyahu spokesman Eliezer Feldstein and one other suspect in connection with the deliberate leak of a manipulated top-secret document by the PMs office to media in an attempt to convince Israelis that protests against the Netanyahu government served to strengthen Hamas. 2024-11-17T19:15+0000 2024-11-17T19:15+0000 2024-11-17T19:15+0000 world benjamin netanyahu israel gaza strip hamas yahya sinwar germany bild israel defense forces (idf) https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/07/12/1119420734_0:320:3072:2048_1920x0_80_0_0_0416086b888547ec005c5f99fe5f228b.jpg Israels State Attorneys Office announced on Sunday that it would file charges against Netanyahu spokesman Eliezer Feldstein and one other suspect in connection with the deliberate leak of a manipulated top-secret document by the PMs office to media in an attempt to convince Israelis that protests against the Netanyahu government served to strengthen Hamas.Feldstein is accused of first trying to leak the information to local media, which would not publish it thanks to the Israel Defense Forces strict military censorship laws, and then to foreign media, which published a story based on an altered version of the sensitive material.The article in question, published by Germanys popular Bild newspaper, alleged, citing a document purportedly taken from the late Hamas chairman Yahya Al-Sinwars computer, that the Palestinian militia had engaged in a campaign of manipulating the international community, [psychologically] torturing the hostage families, and seeking to rearm through drawn out hostage negotiations.The Bild story was picked up by Netanyahu in a cabinet meeting soon after publication.The court document released to media Sunday indicated that after examination by the IDF, it was determined that the document in question could harm both the achievement of one of the wars objectives (hostage release) and the operational activities of the IDF and Shin Bet in the Gaza Strip against Hamas and in additional contexts. Inquiries were subsequently started by the intelligence services and the Israeli Police.During the overt investigation, several individuals were arrested (in stages and according to developments): a reserve NCO, two reserve officers, an active-duty NCO, and Eliezer Feldstein, a civilian communications advisor employed in the National Public Diplomacy Directorate under the Prime Ministers Office, the document said.The investigation revealed a serious chain mechanism for leaks, beginning with a reserve NCO who decided on his own initiative to remove a top secret and sensitive document from IDF possession illegally, intending to transfer it to the political echelon, the court doc added said, clarifying that a copy of the file in question was transferred to Feldstein in April, and a physical copy and two additional top-secret files provided to him in September.Feldstein was alleged to have enlisted another party to help publish the story.The damning revelations could prove a further hit to Netanyahu's standing, with the embattled prime minister facing protests recently over the sacking of his defense minister, Yoav Gallant, earlier this month, and a dragging, years-old investigation into alleged corruption, repeatedly postponed amid the ongoing fighting in Gaza and Lebanon. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241105/netanyahu-fires-defense-minister-gallant-1120783938.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20241112/trump-meets-with-netanyahus-consultant-to-discuss-middle-east---reports-1120861036.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20241113/israeli-court-dismisses-netanyahus-bid-to-postpone-corruption-hearing-1120876671.html israel gaza strip germany Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Ilya Tsukanov Ilya Tsukanov News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Ilya Tsukanov did netanyahu leak secret documents to press, was netanyahu personally involved in document leak https://sputnikglobe.com/20241117/russia-destroys-4-unmanned-boats-near-crimea-2-uavs-over-belgorod-region---mod-1120908237.html Russia Destroys 4 Unmanned Boats Near Crimea, 2 UAVs Over Belgorod Region - MoD Russia Destroys 4 Unmanned Boats Near Crimea, 2 UAVs Over Belgorod Region - MoD Sputnik International Russian air defense systems shot down two Ukrainian drones over the Belgorod region overnight, while four unmanned boats heading towards Crimea were destroyed in the Black Sea, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Sunday. 2024-11-17T05:19+0000 2024-11-17T05:19+0000 2024-11-17T05:19+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine russia ukraine black sea russian defense ministry the united nations (un) drones ukrainian drone attacks on russia https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/08/07/1119669247_0:0:3338:1878_1920x0_80_0_0_3bb59a8dbda56327070b0afd080e8a7b.jpg "Over the past night, attempts by the Kiev regime to carry out terrorist attacks using fixed-wing UAVs against targets on the territory of the Russian Federation were thwarted. Air defense systems on duty destroyed two Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles over the territory of the Belgorod region. Fire weapons on duty destroyed four unmanned boats heading towards the Crimean Peninsula in the Black Sea," the statement says.Ukraine has been sending drones and missiles into Russia almost daily since it launched its counteroffensive in early June 2023. The United Nations said in August last year, following a botched drone strike on Moscow, that it did not want to see any targeting of civilian infrastructure. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240816/russian-choppers-destroy-5-ukraine-unmanned-boats-in-black-sea-1119790648.html russia ukraine black sea Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russia destroys, russian air defense systems, ukrainian drones, belgorod region https://sputnikglobe.com/20241117/russia-hits-ukrainian-military-airfields-energy-facilities---mod-1120909196.html Russia Hits Ukrainian Military Airfields, Energy Facilities - MoD Russia Hits Ukrainian Military Airfields, Energy Facilities - MoD Sputnik International The Russian armed forces have attacked Ukrainian military airfields, as well as gas production and energy facilities used by military enterprises, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Sunday. 2024-11-17T09:51+0000 2024-11-17T09:51+0000 2024-11-17T09:51+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine russia ukraine russian defense ministry energy russian armed forces https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/0d/1116142617_0:114:3236:1934_1920x0_80_0_0_f922b13a21bf3d710092f1617a453829.jpg "Operational-tactical aviation, strike drones, missile troops and artillery hit the infrastructure of military airfields, gas production facilities, energy facilities used for the operation of enterprises of the military-industrial complex of Ukraine, a warehouse of unmanned aerial vehicles, as well as enemy manpower and military equipment in 144 areas," the ministry said in a statement. Russia also targeted Ukrainian critical energy infrastructure and military facilities with "massive strike," the ministry added.Russia's Battlegroup Zapad has eliminated more than 470 Ukrainian servicepeople and repelled six counterattacks over the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Sunday.The ministry also said that Ukraine had lost about 345 soldiers in clashes with Russia's Battlegroup Tsentr, adding that Russian troops had repelled nine counterattacks. Battlegroup Yug has eliminated up to 520 Ukrainian troops and destroyed one tank and three ammunition depots, while Kiev also lost around 140 soldiers in clashes with Battlegroup Vostok, the statement added. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241116/russian-armed-forces-hit-energy-infrastructure-facilities-of-ukraine---mod-1120903998.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20241117/russias-forces-possess-initiative--advantage-while-ukraine-faces-buffet-of-bad-options---1120908346.html russia ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russia hits ukrainian military airfields, energy facilities, russian defense ministry, gas production https://sputnikglobe.com/20241117/taiwan-issue-red-line-that-cannot-be-crossed---xi-jinping-1120908001.html Taiwan Issue Red Line That Cannot Be Crossed - Xi Jinping Taiwan Issue Red Line That Cannot Be Crossed - Xi Jinping Sputnik International The Taiwan issue is a red line that cannot be crossed, Chinese President Xi Jinping said at a meeting with US President Joe Biden in Lima. 2024-11-17T05:05+0000 2024-11-17T05:05+0000 2024-11-17T05:05+0000 world joe biden china taiwan chinese foreign ministry xi jinping us taiwan strait https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/0b/11/1120907843_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_41fb2aade312a746d9741e3db83f78c8.jpg "The Taiwan question, democracy and human rights, Chinas path and system, and Chinas development right are four red lines for China. They must not be challenged. These are the most important guardrails and safety nets for China-US relations," Xi Jinping said, as quoted by the Chinese Foreign Ministry.Xi Jinping told Joe Biden in Lima that peace on both sides of the Taiwan Strait and separatism were as incompatible as fire and water, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said.China's commitment to mutual respect and peaceful coexistence as principles for the development of China-US relations remains unchanged, Chinese President Xi Jinping said.Today, humanity is facing unprecedented challenges, and major power rivalry should not be the underlying logic of this era, Xi Jinping said.If China and the United States view each other as enemies, their relations will regress, the Chinese leader said.If the US says one thing and does another, it will undermine trust between Beijing and Washington, he noted.The meeting of the two leaders took place on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Lima, Peru.Official relations between the central government of China and its island province were severed in 1949 after Kuomintang forces lost a civil war to the Chinese Communist Party and moved to the island. Business and informal contacts between Taipei and Beijing resumed in the late 1980s. Since the early 1990s, they have engaged through non-governmental organizations, including the Beijing-based Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait and the Taipei-based Straits Exchange Foundation.Beijing considers Taiwan to be an integral part of China, and adherence to the 'One China' principle is a mandatory condition for other countries wishing to establish or maintain diplomatic relations with China. The United States officially adheres to the One China policy and does not recognize Taiwan's independence, despite supplying weapons to the island. Beijing describes Taiwan as the most sensitive issue in its relations with Washington. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241115/china-warns-us-to-avoid-sending-false-signals-over-taiwan-relations-1120893306.html china taiwan taiwan strait Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International taiwan issue is a red line, chinese president xi jinping, us president joe biden Tsinghua University, one of China's top universities, announced initiatives Friday to advance high-quality medicine development during the Tsinghua Medicine: Future of Medicine Forum, themed "Innovating Medicine and Healthcare for a Shared Future." The Tsinghua Medicine: Future of Medicine Forum is held at Tsinghua University in Beijing, Nov. 15, 2024. [Photo courtesy of Tsinghua University] The university launched several new specialized schools at Tsinghua Medicine, and also signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Beijing's Haidian district to develop a new medical campus. The newly launched divisions include the School of Basic Medicine, the School of Biomedical Engineering, the School of Medical Management, and the School of Clinical Medicine (Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital). The new medicine campus will be a high-level facility incorporating Tsinghua Medicine, a research-centric hospital, and national-level research platforms. Chen Zhu, vice chairperson of the Standing Committee of the 13th National People's Congress and a member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), said in an opening speech via video that as the scientific backbone of health care services, medical advancements play a vital role in safeguarding public health. From basic research to clinical applications and from disease prevention to health management, every breakthrough in medicine has profoundly impacted human health. He encouraged Tsinghua University to pursue innovation, prioritize people's health needs, and promote collaboration and resource sharing with the international medical community from a global perspective. Zeng Yixin, vice minister of the National Health Commission (NHC) and a member of the CAS, highlighted that China had outlined integrated reforms of institutions and mechanisms pertaining to education, science and technology, and talent, as well as implementing a health-first strategy. In recent years, Tsinghua University has provided rich resources for cultivating medical talent for the new era and has produced a series of innovative medical achievements, becoming a key influence in China's medical development. He said the NHC will continue to support Tsinghua Medicine's reform and development and encouraged Tsinghua to leverage the advantages of a comprehensive university to promote interdisciplinary integration and contribute even more to the Healthy China initiative. An inauguration ceremony for new schools of Tsinghua Medicine takes place during the Tsinghua Medicine: Future of Medicine Forum at Tsinghua University in Beijing, Nov. 15, 2024. [Photo courtesy of Tsinghua University] Xiong Sihao, vice minister of education, said that this forum, focusing on exploring ways to provide high-quality medical education and advance medical development, is particularly relevant as the country steps up its efforts in these areas. He expressed hope that Tsinghua will cultivate more top medical talent with strong ethics and innovative skills, strengthen discipline development, promote international medical collaboration and lead reforms in medical education and systems to contribute to Tsinghua's solutions to major medical challenges in China and the world. Li Luming, president of Tsinghua University, said Tsinghua remains committed to national development while strengthening its medical programs as part of its mission to become a world-class university. Li, who is also a member of the CAS, said the university is advancing medical technology innovation and artificial intelligence applications in medical education. Li expressed hope that Tsinghua Medicine will cultivate leadership in medicine, promote interdisciplinary development, achieve high-level scientific innovations and enhance health service capabilities. During the forum, Victor Dzau, president of the U.S. National Academy of Medicine and a foreign Chinese Academy of Engineering (CAE) member, received an honorary professorship from Tsinghua University. During the keynote presentations, Wong Tien Yin, vice provost of Tsinghua University, senior vice-chancellor of Tsinghua Medicine, and an elected foreign member of the U.S. National Academy of Medicine, outlined the development, unique characteristics, and key achievements of Tsinghua Medicine in a presentation titled "Tsinghua Medicine: Developing a Future-focused, High-quality Strategy for Medicine." He also shared the vision of establishing Tsinghua Medicine as a world-leading center for talent cultivation and research innovation that drives progress in human medicine. Dong Jiahong, dean of the School of Clinical Medicine (Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital), chair of the Academic Committee of Tsinghua Medicine, and a member of the CAE, delivered a presentation titled "Tsinghua Practices in Building a Chinese Modern Healthcare Services System." He highlighted the achievements of Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital in pioneering medical reforms, exploring public hospital reform, establishing a high-level academic medical center, and building an integrated health care consortium, demonstrating Tsinghua's contributions to the development of a modern Chinese health care system. Tsinghua University signs a strategic cooperation agreement with Beijing's Haidian district during the Tsinghua Medicine: Future of Medicine Forum at Tsinghua University in Beijing, Nov. 15, 2024. [Photo courtesy of Tsinghua University] In his presentation "The Future of Medicine: From Bench to Bedside to Population to Society," Dzau addressed global challenges in health care and discussed how data science and artificial intelligence can play critical roles in tackling shared issues. The three-day event features seven specialized sub-forums covering medical education, advances in oncology, infectious diseases and immunity, aging and degenerative diseases, drug development, biomedical engineering and health care management. https://sputnikglobe.com/20241117/trump-not-even-in-power-yet-and-already-wreaking-havoc-on-european-markets-1120909330.html Trump Not Even in Power Yet and Already Wreaking Havoc on European Markets Trump Not Even in Power Yet and Already Wreaking Havoc on European Markets Sputnik International Donald Trump's expected return to the White House in January has been met with intense skepticism by both political and economic elites in Europe. 2024-11-17T13:06+0000 2024-11-17T13:06+0000 2024-11-17T13:06+0000 economy business donald trump robert lighthizer china european union (eu) nafta trade trade war market https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/0b/08/1120823681_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_601c18852691892dd528182e468293e0.jpg European markets are trending downward and the euro has slid to its worst dip against the US dollar since the 2022 energy crisis in anticipation of Donald Trumps return to the White House.Barclays analysts cited by the Financial Times dubbed the Stoxx Europe 600s poor performance compared to US markets which soared on news of Trumps reelection last week, a Trump premium.ING global markets head Chris Turner explained the situation in no uncertain terms: Investors fear that Europe will be in the front line of the coming trade war.The president-elect appeared to confirm as much last week with his reported plans to rehire noted trade hawk Robert Lighthizer as his trade czar. During Trumps first term, Lighthizer kicked off a trade war with China, strongarmed Canada and Mexico into renegotiating NAFTA, and slapped tariffs of up to 25% on steel and 10% on aluminum imports from much of the world, including Europe.FT says the specter of new Trump tariffs, combined with Chinas growing industrial might, could push European manufacturers deeper into crisis. The latter are already reeling from Brussels shortsighted 2022 decision to try to wean the EU off Russian energy, which thrust regional industrial powerhouses into recession and arguably the worst deindustrialization crisis since WWII.The markets' reaction to Trump's victory echoed a string of pessimistic analyses on Europe's prospects under Trump generally, expecting the president-elect to "test European solidarity on NATO, Ukraine and trade," and prove "2025's disaster" for a Germany lurching "from crisis to crisis."Representatives of Europe's political class couldn't help but express disdain for Trump following last week's election, with outgoing EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell telling colleagues in Brussels this week that Trump's victory "is going to have many geopolitical consequences." https://sputnikglobe.com/20241112/eu-now-has-two-choices-new-arms-race-or-mend-fences-with-russia--swedish-military-veteran-1120867792.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20241114/eus-top-diplomat-likens-trump-to-fascist-dictator-franco-prepares-for-long-term-decline-in-ties-1120884589.html china Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Ilya Tsukanov Ilya Tsukanov News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Ilya Tsukanov is donald trump good or bad for europe, will eu be better or worse under trump, why does europe fear trump, does europe fear trump This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Kindel Media from Pexels Police departments around the world are increasingly using body-worn cameras in an attempt to improve public trust and accountability. But this has created huge amounts of data, about 95% of which is never reviewed or even seen. Enter companies such as Axon, Polis Solutions and Truleo. These companies market artificial intelligence (AI) tools for analyzing the data generated by body-worn cameras and other policing technologies. Some police departments in the United States previously launched trials of these tools before abandoning them because of concerns about privacy. Truleo told The Conversation that police in Australia were now using its technology, but did not name any specific department. However, when The Conversation asked Australian police departments if they were using or considering using Truleo's software, all except the Queensland Police Service said they were not. In a statement, a Queensland Police Service spokesperson said it is currently conducting an AI trial with "a variety of technology" as part of its work tackling domestic and family violence. The spokesperson added, "Once the trial is completed, a detailed evaluation will be undertaken before the QPS considers future options for using the technology." But AI will not solve the challenges facing policeat least, not by itself. The unfulfilled promise of body-worn cameras The increased use of body-worn cameras by law enforcement agencies in recent years follows a number of high-profile cases involving police using force. In Australia, for example, a police officer is currently on trial for the manslaughter of a 95-year-old great-grandmother by using a taser. There is debate about whether body-worn cameras actually make police officers' behavior more transparent and accountable. Some experts have said their effectiveness is uncertain. Others have said they are a failed attempt at reform. These sentiments were echoed by a major study published earlier this year. The study examined the use of body-worn cameras in response to domestic and family violence in Australia. It acknowledged their potential utility but showed how data from these technologies might not be used to support victim-survivors. This is because of more foundational problems with how police engage with victim-survivors. AI's many uses in policing Police have been using AI as part of their work for a long time. For example, in 2000, New South Wales Police launched a program that used data analytics to predict which people were at risk of committing a crime, to enhance police supervision. A report from the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission later revealed the program disproportionately targeted Indigenous youth, who subsequently faced heightened surveillance and increased arrests for minor crimes. This led to NSW Police ending the program in 2023. The Queensland Police Service has also proposed a program using AI technologies to predict risk of domestic and family violence. Experts, however, have pointed to potential unintended consequences, including criminalizing victim-survivors. Companies such as Truleo, which provides police with AI tools to analyze body-worn camera footage, say these tools improve police "professionalism." However, it is not clear if what is being measured and assessed as "professionalism" correlates with officers' core duties and responsibilities. In fact, the Seattle Police Department in the US ended its contract with Truleo despite acknowledging it was a "promising" trial. It did so after finding a case of unprofessional conduct in which the police union cited the use of camera footage as infringing on the police officer's privacy. The need for structural reform AI tools could help police manage and analyze body-worn camera data. Their value depends on several conditions. First, police must thoroughly evaluate any AI tools to ensure they are fit for purpose in a local context. Many of these technologies are developed overseas and trained on data that have linguistic features such as accents, inflections and insults that are not common in Australia. Second, policeand the companies that offer AI data analysis toolsmust also be transparent about how they use body-worn camera footage. In particular, they must share where, how and by what arrangements data is processed and stored. Finallyand most importantlythe use of AI technologies by police should not supersede organizational and structural reforms. Police need to examine the impact of behaviors and processes that have resulted in inequitable surveillance practices. AI technologies are not solutions to these underlying dynamics. Without an understanding of the systemic structures that sustain disparities in the criminal legal system, police will not be prepared to address the implications of integrating AI technologies into their work. If they do not, these technologies arep more likely to exacerbate existing injustices and inequalities. In short, the questions about AI shouldn't be simply about technology but about police legitimacy. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain "We have entered the Intelligence Age," proclaimed Sam Altman, the chief executive of OpenAI, in September. "Deep learning worked," he explained, and this breakthrough in learning from data will unleash a smart era in which the more data becomes available, "the better it gets at helping people solve hard problems." Altman joins other thought leaders, corporations like Google and Amazon, and organizations such as the United Nations and the World Economic Forum, in pinning humanity's hopes on better information. The logic is enticing. By harvesting all the world's knowledge, AI models can locate patterns, make correlations, and offer data-driven "insights." The optimal solutions to our biggest problems are needles in a data haystack, so finding them exceeds the limited human mind. It is up to technology like deep learning to "capture it all," analyze or train on itand then offer up the brilliant game-changing idea or most rational response. Climate change, according to a Google report, can be simulated and alleviated using forecasting and modeling. Global conflicts, suggest AI engineers Tshilidzi Marwala and Monica Lagazio, can be modeled and mitigated. But the recent US election showed the limits of this rational framing of reality. Viral rumors and conspiracy theories (JD Vance and the couch, or "they're eating the pets") were gleefully shared. It seems some voters were motivated less by abstract policy and more by visceral disgust at those deemed different. Humans are not perfectly rational and ethical. They are deeply emotional, factional and frictionaldriven by feelings and friendships, fear and anger. Donald Trump's win was aided by tapping deeply into this darker and more "irrational" core of human nature, defying the polls. It was never about perfect information. In the past five years, my research has explored how technologies construct knowledgebut also exploit emotion and amplify radicalization. To understand the current political moment, we need to understand both the limits of reason and the power of unreason. Climate change, genocide and data Intelligence is a dead end. The entangled social, political and environmental crises we now face will not be addressed by having more information. Climate change is Exhibit A. Since 1990, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has published six assessments detailing the drivers and impacts of global warming. The latest report is 3,949 pages and was based on more than 14,000 scientific papers. Despite this deluge of data and expert evidence, the planet has already passed the 1.5C threshold above pre-industrial levels and may pass 2C by the end of the decade. Indeed, over the three decades of the United Nations' Conference of Parties meetings (19942024), carbon emissions have steadily ticked upwards. A mountain of facts has not budged the voracious extraction and consumption of "business as usual." Gaza is Exhibit B. Law for Palestine, a not-for-profit, youth-led legal organization, has meticulously compiled a database with more than 500 instances of incitements to genocide. Last week, South Africa filed its Memorial to the International Court of Justice, a key document in its case against Israel. Its evidence is detailed in more than 750 pages of text, supported by exhibits and annexes of more than 4,000 pages. And yet Israel's assault on Gaza continues, with deaths mounting up. According to Al-Jazeera, some of the government's kill lists are generated via big data analysis, a kind of AI-assisted genocide. In both of these examples, intelligence was ignored or simply co-opted to rationalize a desired action. As a George W. Bush adviser famously stated: there are people who believe solutions emerge from a "judicious study of discernible reality" and there are those who "create our own reality." While analysts are analyzing, empires are acting, reshaping the world. Facts can be trumped by alternative facts. Scientific reason can be ignored or refused. Machine learning can be overpowered (or weaponized) by men with guns. In Trump's first presidential term, I analyzed how Immigration and Customs Enforcement had begun to use Palantir technologies, which assembles data into a powerful visual interface to aid in deportations. Even a decade ago, the agency was scanning three billion pieces of information, from license plates to border-crossing data, using ostensibly sophisticated software to identify targets and home in on "illegals." And yet these data-driven insights were ultimately a pretense: tokenistic evidence for a war on immigrants the Trump administration had already decided to wage. Any claims that this computational logic was "post-racial" quickly disappeared in the violence of deportation raids, when immigration officers punched individuals in the face, ordered them to the ground, placed boots on their head, and referred to them as "Mexican shit." Machine intelligence, ethics and morals "Enlightenment reverts to mythology," predicted influential cultural theorists Theodor Adorno and Max Horkheimer 80 years ago in Dialectic of Enlightenment. A society obsessed with the perfection of reason inevitably breeds its opposite: brute force and proud irrationality. Their insights were far from abstract. The German theorists had fled for their lives, penning their groundbreaking classic in exile in California while Hitler's murderous regime played out across the Atlantic. Reason, the duo observed, has morphed from its ancient origins to become an approach and a set of techniques. Reason is about ordering, classifying, and deducing from dataand applying this "abstract functioning of the thinking mechanism" in a suitable or scientific way. Such techniques sit at the core of contemporary machine learning systems, which train, fine-tune and generate claims from data. This makes reason free-floating, a set of operations that can be applied to anything and everything. Such "intelligence" is effectively content-agnostic: devoid of any intrinsic aim or purpose. Reason does not (and indeed cannot) judge the ethical or moral implications of its use. But if "all affects are of equal value," the duo note, then survival becomes "the most probable source of maxims for human conduct." Self-interest is the most "reasonable" approach of all, and anything that hinders thissocial cohesion, protections for the marginal or vulnerable, contributions towards the public good must be dispensed with. In a zero-sum game, giving anything to "them" simply means less for "us." Within nations, we see this in polarization and division. Internationally, we see it in hardened borders and bunker mentalities. Any other strategy besides domination is suboptimal. The ticking time bomb of reason Reason creates a kind of ticking time bomb at the core of society. Reason is a flexible amalgam of information harvesting, data-driven decisions and optimized operations that wins votes and attracts investment. But because reason is uncoupled from ethics, it can and should be applied to anything: no aim is better or worse than any other. The result for Horkheimer and Adorno is a kind of moral relativism. A perfect example is Robodebt, Australia's use of data analytics and machine learning to halt welfare payments. This mechanism for "automating inequality" created untold misery for those who were already vulnerable. Denying care became procedural and therefore "reasonable." This calculative logic is both practical and unassailable. Once rooted in the national consciousness, it becomes tough to dislodge. Actions not tied to survival are hard to defend; values not directly linked to self-interest are difficult to rationalize. Any connection or responsibility to the millions of others in the country risks breaking altogether. In the end, this national community can only be held together by sheer force or terror, Horkheimer observes: liberalism tilts over into fascism. The rise and rise of strongman leaders, poised between fascism and popular nationalism, exemplifies this tilt. In Hungary, authoritarian leader Viktor Orban has a 14-year grip on power, undermining judicial independence and press freedom with his brand of self-styled "electoral autocracy" or "illiberal democracy." In Russia, Vladimir Putin has created a cult of power, annexing Crimea, waging war in Ukraineand crushing protest with violence and imprisonment. Most recently, Trump has once more risen to power, vowing to punish the "enemy within" and carry out mass deportations. "I am your warrior, I am your justice," he vowed, "and for those who have been wronged and betrayed, I am your retribution." The arc of reason eventually arrives at a brutish world ruled by the most brutal. Democratic "civilization" collapses back into domineering barbarism. Age of intelligence or age of anger? As reason's grand promises inevitably collapse, people grow disenchanted or disaffected, latching onto regressive worldviews that make the world make sense. My own work has explored how online platforms have repackaged racist, sexist and xenophobic ideologies into alluring new forms of hate, spawning incels and edge-lords, Christian nationalists and QAnon conspiracy theorists. While such prejudices can certainly be condemned, they shed light on our world today. For those who adopt them, these narratives offer a compelling account of how the world works, why someone is stuckand who or what is to blame. New studies have shown that white Americans who perceive themselves to be in "last place" in the racial status hierarchy are most drawn to alt-right extremism. The fact that this perception is divorced from realitythat in terms of education, income and imprisonment rates they remain at or near the topdoes not diminish its power. The power behind these narratives is not logical, but emotional. This is not the liberal subject, carefully weighing the facts before choosing the claim that best conforms to empirical evidence and contributes to the public sphere. No, it is about grievance, loss and a sense of betrayal by the powers that be. This affective power is echoed by sociologist Arlie Hochschild, who spent five years in the Republican stronghold of Louisiana, where many suffer from poor health and lifetime poverty, in the years preceding Trump's first election. After countless conversations with residents, she stresses that their story is one of anger and mourning: a "feels-as-if" story that bypasses judgment and fact. For the white subject, the shock and sense of loss is tangible. Advantage is not just "slipping away" but is being "taken by undeserving others". Having stood atop the social hierarchy for so long, the loss of stature feels like a tumble into the abyss. Regressive views such as hyperconservatism or ethnonationalism offer a handhold or lifeline. And yet, if they bring a renewed sense of stability, they also cultivate a deep-seated hostility. In this sense, our moment is not the Age of Intelligence but the Age of Anger. This is not to condone naked violence, baseless hatred and shameless propaganda, but to recognize the limits of reason in contemporary life. The irrational human animal "If there is anything unique about the human animal," philosopher John Gray observes, "it is that it has the ability to grow knowledge at an accelerating rate, while being chronically incapable of learning from experience." For modern humanists, humans are inherently rational. The primary future challenge is merely how to make them more logical, more civil, more reasonable. This is the human that Altman and other techno-positivists have in mind when they suggest AI will solve our problems. It is only a matter of augmenting human intelligence with machine intelligence. But history suggests our crises and responses have always been shot through with the "irrational", a darker melange of emotional power, bodily violence and political will. Intelligenceeven scaled, automated and operationalized by artificial intelligencewill not save us. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. When China first hosted the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in 2001, the nation stood at a crossroads, poised to join the World Trade Organization. It was a moment of transformation that signaled China's readiness to step fully into the global economic arena. By the time China hosted APEC again in 2014, the story was markedly different. The country had become an economic powerhouse, with its deeper integration into the world economy fueling a decade of breathtaking growth. Now, China is set to play host again with a significant mission: to unite Asia-Pacific countries to champion open economic and trade cooperation while rejecting protectionist and confrontational trade tactics. On Saturday, Chinese President Xi Jinping, speaking during the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, held in Peru's capital Lima, announced that China would welcome APEC leaders to his country in 2026. "We look forward to working with all parties to deepen Asia-Pacific cooperation to the benefit of the peoples in the region," Xi said. Its experience of hosting APEC twice before shows China can foster consensus, said Carlos Vasquez, 2024 chair of APEC senior officials ambassador. "China played a very important role along with some other very important economies ... to gain consensus again from the very beginning in the APEC year 2024 here in Peru," said Vasquez. China will play a pivotal role in strengthening the APEC forum in 2026 when it takes on the role of host, as much as it demonstrated during its successful leadership in 2014, he said. During his speech, Xi urged APEC economies to "act in solidarity and cooperation to meet the challenges, fully deliver on the Putrajaya Vision 2040, build an Asia-Pacific community with a shared future, and start a new era in Asia-Pacific development." The Putrajaya Vision 2040, adopted by APEC leaders in 2020, envisions "an open, dynamic, resilient, and peaceful Asia-Pacific community by 2040, for the prosperity of all our people and future generations." However, this vision of shared prosperity and enduring stability faces growing challenges. Geopolitical tensions, coupled with economic disruptions fueled by unilateralism, protectionism, and attempts at "decoupling" and "de-risking," have created unprecedented pressures on the region's stability and growth. "We should stay committed to multilateralism and an open economy, firmly uphold the multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization at its core, fully reactivate APEC's role as an incubator of global economic and trade rules, and advance regional economic integration and connectivity," said Xi. In interviews with Xinhua, Asia-Pacific experts and officials noted that China's remarkable success through high-quality opening-up has given it a deep understanding of the importance of an open global economic system and the critical need to advance multilateral and win-win cooperation. As a major country in the Asia-Pacific, China "has consistently adhered to a development path that aligns with APEC's spirit of openness, inclusiveness, and mutual benefit," said Woo Su-keun, director of the Institute of East Asian Studies of Korea. "It is more important for countries to demonstrate strong leadership through concrete actions rather than words," Woo said. For Ong Chong Yi, executive director of the Malaysian think tank Belt and Road Initiative Caucus for Asia-Pacific, China has opened its market to provide development opportunities for countries in the region, driving inclusive economic growth within the Asia-Pacific. "At the same time, China actively supports infrastructure development in developing nations, enhancing connectivity and economic and social inclusivity across the region. These efforts create more opportunities for shared progress and prosperity," he said. In his speech on Saturday, Xi emphasized the need to make green innovation a catalyst for the Asia-Pacific. "We need to push forward coordinated digital and green transformation and development to create new momentum and new drivers for Asia-Pacific development," Xi said, calling for fostering an open, fair, just and nondiscriminatory ecosystem for innovation. China is one of the most important and largest investors to help the world carry out green transformation, said Nikorndej Balankura, spokesperson of the ministry of foreign affairs of Thailand. China is also helping countries in the Global South and many others to develop sustainable green economies, he added. Flash Eleven people were killed, and 11 others injured on Saturday in Israeli airstrikes on southern and eastern Lebanon, the official National News Agency (NNA) reported. According to the NNA, six people from the same family were killed, and 11 others were injured in an Israeli raid on a house in the village of Khreibeh in the eastern Baalbek-Hermel Governorate. In addition, five employees of the Nabatieh municipality were also killed in an Israeli raid that targeted a municipal warehouse, the report said. Military sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Israeli warplanes and drones carried out about 90 raids on Saturday on villages and towns in southern and eastern Lebanon, and Israeli artillery bombarded 16 villages and towns with about 75 shells. In separate statements on Saturday, Hezbollah announced that it destroyed an Israeli Merkava tank with a guided missile in the village of Chamaa, southern Lebanon, which led to casualties among its crew. The group added that it targeted with missiles gatherings of Israeli soldiers and vehicles that infiltrated towns in the border area in southern Lebanon, and targeted with rockets several Israeli sites and gatherings in northern Israel, including those in the cities of Acre, Haifa, Safed, and Kiryat Shmona. Since Sept. 23, the Israeli army has intensified its air attack on Lebanon in an escalation of conflict with Hezbollah. Israel further initiated a ground operation across its northern border into Lebanon in early October. According to the Lebanese Health Ministry, the death toll from Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon since the beginning of the war on Oct. 8, 2023 reached 3,452, and injuries went up to 14,664. Gia vang the gioi sang nay ap sat moc 3.000 USD/ounce muc ky luc chua tung co trong lich su. Trong nuoc cung khong ngoai le, khi lan luot tang tu 700 en 1 trieu ong/luong. "Vang ang trong thi truong tang gia dai han. Chung toi du bao gia se giao dich trong khoang 3.000-3.200 USD trong nam nay", Alex Ebkarian, giam oc ieu hanh tai Allegiance Gold cho biet. You have reached a premium content area of Transitions. To read this entire article please login if you are already a Transitions subscriber. Not a subscriber? Subscribe today for access to: Full access to the website, including premium articles videos, country reports and searchable archives (containing over 25,000 articles). The MENA region witnessed an increase in merger and acquisition (M&A) activity with a total of 522 deals amounting to $71 billion in the first nine months of the year, according to to the EY MENA M&A Insights. When compared to the same period in 2023, deal volume this year grew by 9%, while deal value saw a 7% rise, the report said. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) were the preferred destinations for investors due to their favourable business policies, with 239 deals reaching a combined disclosed value of $24.5 billion. They were also among the top MENA bidder countries in terms of deal volume and value, representing 52% and 81% of the total, respectively. Sovereign wealth funds (SWFs), such as Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) and Mubadala from the UAE and the Public Investment Fund (PIF) from KSA, continued to lead the deal activity in the region to support their countries economic strategies. During the first nine months of 2024, cross-border M&As played a significant role, contributing 52% of the overall volume and 73% of the value. Meanwhile, domestic M&A value increased year-on-year (y-o-y) by 44% to reach $19.3 billion, primarily driven by government-related entities (GREs) transactions in the oil and gas, metals and mining and chemicals sectors. Domestic M&A activity accounted for 48% of the total number of deals. The US remained the preferred target destination for MENA investors with 32 deals amounting to $18.3 billion. With the US-UAE Business Council playing an active role in promoting partnerships, prominent US companies are collaborating with UAE public and private sector stakeholders on various initiatives. Brad Watson, EY MENA Strategy and Transactions Leader, said: Deal activity in the MENA region has seen a notable improvement this year, driven by strategic policy shifts, the liberalization of investment regulations and robust capital inflows from investors. With companies actively seeking opportunities to grow and diversify their operations, we have observed a surge in cross-border M&A volume and value. In particular, the UAE remained a favored investment destination during the first nine months of 2024 due to its business-friendly regulations and efficient legislative framework. Meanwhile, strengthening regional relationships with Asian and European economies, alongside existing ties with the US, enabled MENA countries to gain access to larger and growing markets. Top 10 M&As concentrated in the GCC region Ten of the MENA regions highest-valued M&As in the first nine months of 2024 were concentrated in the GCC. The largest transaction took place in February 2024, when Clayton Dubilier & Rice, Stone Point Capital and Mubadala Investment announced their acquisition of Truist Insurance Holdings for $12.4 billion. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia recorded the largest disclosed domestic deal with Saudi Aramcos acquisition of a 22.5% stake in Rabigh Refining and Petrochemical Company from Tokyo-based Sumitomo Chemical for $8.9 billion. In March 2024, PAG, Mubadala and ADIA invested $8.3 billion in a 60% stake in the Chinese shopping mall company Zhuhai Wanda Commercial Management Group. Insurance and oil and gas were the most attractive sectors for investors in the first nine months of the year, representing 34% of total deal value. Domestic deals grow in volume and value The first nine months of 2024 saw 248 domestic deals with a combined disclosed value of $19.3 billion, marking a 7% increase in M&A activity. GCC players were involved in 81% of the deals, reflecting a high level of intra-regional M&A activity. There were 139 deals within and between the UAE and KSA, accounting for 56% of the overall domestic M&A volume. With increasing emphasis on digital transformation and shifting consumer patterns, technology and consumer products witnessed 78 deals, representing 31% of the total domestic M&A volume. Meanwhile, the oil & gas and metals & mining sectors became the major contributors in terms of M&A value with 19 deals amounting to $10.9 billion. Notably, oil & gas accounted for 46% of the total deal value. KSA dominated the lists of target countries as well as bidder countries, with the UAE, Morocco, Bahrain and Egypt featuring in both rankings as well. United States and United Kingdom lead in inbound deal volume With MENA emerging as one of the most attractive destinations for foreign direct investment (FDI), inbound deals towards the region in the first nine months of this year rose by 20% y-o-y in terms of volume. Meanwhile, deal value surged by 47% compared to the same period in 2023. The first three quarters of 2024 recorded 127 inbound deals with a total disclosed value of $10.4 billion. The US and the UK together accounted for 42% of total inbound M&A activity. The technology and professional firms & services sectors reported the highest deal volume and value, contributing 48% and 39% respectively. The US contributed 33% of the total deal volume in these sectors, with 80% of these deals being partnerships with UAE, showcasing strong US interest in the UAE's technology and professional services, driven by rising digitalization and artificial intelligence adoption. With increased FDI flows in the private sector, the UAE represented 60% of the total inbound M&A volume and 67% of the value. Outbound deals witness lively activity During the first nine months of 2024, outbound activity was the largest contributor to total deal value at 58%, with 147 deals that amounted to $41.4 billion. Insurance and real estate accounted for 50% of the deal value in this space, mainly resulting from two mega investments involving MENA-based SWFs. The US and China represented 70% of the outbound deal value. Asia and North America together contributed 46% and 77% of the total outbound deals by volume and value respectively Anil Menon, EY MENA Head of M&A and Equity Capital Markets Leader, says: "The MENA M&A market is extremely buoyant and we expect to end the year with more than 700 deals, which will be very close to the historic five-year high of 750 deals. This is a remarkable achievement in the context of uncertain geopolitics and higher cost of capital." TradeArabia News Service Investcorp, a global alternative investment firm, has announced the appointment of Mashaal AlJomaih as its new CEO for Saudi Arabia following the retirement of Yasser Bajsair. Headquartered in Bahrain, Investcorp is a specialist in alternative investments across four asset classes: Private Equity (Mid-Market Buyouts, Growth Investments, and GP Staking), Real Assets (Infrastructure and Real Estate), Credit (CLOs, Broadly Syndicated Loans & Structured Credit, and Middle-Market Direct Lending), and Liquid Strategies (Absolute Return Investments and Insurance Asset Management). AlJomaih previously held the role of Managing Director within Investcorp Private Wealth and Deputy CEO of Investcorp Saudi Arabia, based in Riyadh. He joined Investcorp in June 2022, bringing over 20 years of experience in investment banking. In the last two years, he worked closely with outgoing CEO Bajsair, to help grow Investcorps business in the kingdom. Nahar Houthan, who has been with the firm since 2016, will assume the role of Deputy CEO of Investcorp Saudi Arabia. Bajsair joined Investcorp in 2010 and has played a pivotal role in growing the firms business in Saudi Arabia. On the new appointment, Yusef Al Yusef, Investcorps Global Head of Distribution, said AlJomaih has been instrumental in supporting the growth of its business in Saudi Arabia over the past two years. "Having worked with him closely, I know he will continue the firms expansion in the kingdom with his rich knowledge and understanding of the local market," he stated. With wide spanning relationships in Saudi and one of the largest alternatives coverage teams, the team has a deep relationship network across both private wealth and institutional investors, including ultra-high net worth individuals, family offices, financial institutions, pension funds, endowments and sovereign wealth funds. On his new role, AlJomaih said: "I am excited to take on this role. Since joining Investcorp in 2022, we have seen a wealth of opportunities and appetite for investment in the kingdom, seen through our pre-IPO vehicle." "I look forward to continuing Investcorps growth strategy in the region, capitalizing on a dynamic and ambitious market," he added.-TradeArabia News Service Flash Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday met with U.S. President Joe Biden on the sidelines of the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Lima, Peru. Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with U.S. President Joe Biden in Lima, Peru, Nov. 16, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Xueren) Noting that he was pleased to meet with Biden again, Xi said China-U.S. relations over the past four years have gone through ups and downs, but under the joint stewardship of the two presidents, the two sides have also been engaged in fruitful dialogue and cooperation and their relationship has remained stable on the whole. Xi said that the trajectory of China-U.S. relations has proved the validity of these experiences and inspirations from the past 45 years of diplomatic ties. When the two countries treat each other as partner and friend, seek common ground while shelving differences and help each other succeed, their relationship would make considerable progress. But if they take each other as rival or adversary, pursue vicious competition and seek to hurt each other, they would roil the relationship or even set it back, he added. Noting that humanity is faced with unprecedented challenges in this turbulent world suffering from frequent conflicts where old problems are compounded by new ones, Xi said major-country competition should not be the underlying logic of the times; only solidarity and cooperation can help humanity overcome current difficulties. In an age of a new round of flourishing sci-tech revolution and industrial transformation, neither decoupling nor supply-chain disruption is the solution; only mutually beneficial cooperation can lead to common development, said Xi, noting that "small yard, high fences" is not what a major country should pursue; only openness and sharing can advance the well-being of humanity. As two major countries, China and the United States should bear in mind the interests of the whole world, and inject more certainty and positive energy into the turbulent world, he added. Xi underscored his consistent belief that a stable China-U.S. relationship, which is the world's most important bilateral relationship, is critical not only to the interests of the Chinese and American peoples but also to the future and destiny of the entire humanity. The two sides should bear in mind the well-being of the two peoples and the common interests of the international community, make the wise choice, keep exploring the right way for two major countries to get along well with each other, and realize the long-term, peaceful coexistence on this planet, he added. Xi noted the recent U.S. election, and stressed that China's goal of a stable, healthy and sustainable China-U.S. relationship remains unchanged. He said that China's commitment to mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation as principles for handling China-U.S. relations remains unchanged. China's position of resolutely safeguarding its sovereignty, security and development interests remains unchanged, and its desire to carry forward the traditional friendship between the Chinese and American peoples remains unchanged, he added. The Chinese president said that China is ready to work with the U.S. government to maintain dialogue, expand cooperation and manage differences, so as to strive for a steady transition of the China-U.S. relationship for the benefit of the two peoples. Cityscape Global, the worlds largest real estate exhibition, ended on a successful note at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center in the Saudi capital attracting more than 172,000 visitors and hosting over 400 exhibitors during the four-day event. Held under the theme 'The Future of Living,' it was organised by Tahaluf, a joint venture of the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming, and Drones, the Events Investment Fund, and the global company Informa. About 550 speakers from more than 50 countries, comprising top experts and industry leaders, also contributed to the event held under the patronage of the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing, in partnership with the Real Estate General Authority (REGA) and the Housing Program, a key initiative of Saudi Vision 2030, said the organisers. A highly successful edition, the Cityscape Global 2024 witnessed the closing of real estate transactions worth moe than SAR230 billion ($61 billion), they added. The closing ceremony was attended by Minister of Municipalities and Housing Majed Al Hogail and Tahaluf Chairman Faisal Al Khamisi, along with housing leaders, officials, and heads of organizing committee. In his closing remarks, Al Hogail highlighted the remarkable achievements at Cityscape Global, which reflect the continuous focus on developing the real estate sector and enhancing its appeal. "The volume of investments and agreements, besides the active participation from both local and international stakeholders, underscores the sectors ongoing growth and aligns with the ministrys strategic objectives within Saudi Vision 2030," he stated. Al Khamisi expressed his satisfaction with the events achievements, noting that attendance and success had doubled thanks to the combined efforts of participating and organizing entities. "The event attracted over 172,000 visitors and hosted more than 400 exhibitors, including some of the biggest local and global companies, with international participants making up 47%," he added. Lauding the organisers for its success, Real Estate General Authority CEO Abdullah Al Hammad said the event has met the expectations of all target audiences with the total sales by local and international developers at the exhibition topping the SAR20 billion ($5.3 billion) figure. The strategic agreements between various entities exceeded SAR30 billion ($7.9 billion), while the total value of real estate transactions at the exhibition exceeded $61 billion, he added.-TradeArabia News Service Adnoc Logistics and Services (Adnoc L&S), an energy maritime logistics leader, has announced its third quarter (Q3) and first nine months (9M) 2024 financial results, revealing a revenue of $2,668 million (AED9,798 million) for the 9M 2024, up 38 per cent compared to 9M 2023, with EBITDA rising by 37 per cent to $867 million (AED3,184 million) and sustaining EBITDA margins at 32 per cent, while net profit reached $576 million (AED2,117 million), equating to $0.08 (AED0.29) per share, a 27 per cent increase compared to 9M 2023. The Companys Q3 revenue increased by 32 per cent year-on-year (y-o-y) to $928 million (AED3,410 million) with EBITDA up by 26 per cent y-o-y to $275 million (AED1,011 million). Net profit for Q3 grew 18 per cent y-o-y to $175 million (AED643 million). This strong financial performance is a result of the continuous execution of Adnoc L&S transformative growth strategy, focused on value-accretive investments in energy-related maritime logistics. After just 18 months after of its record-setting IPO, Adnoc L&S has already delivered commitments to the majority of its strategic investment goal, backed by over 340 years of incremental long-term contracted demand. Captain Abdulkareem Al Masabi, CEO of Adnoc L&S, said: These robust financial results demonstrate continued delivery of our strategy and our focus on delivering strong shareholder value through growth. The expected contribution of Navig8 will further boost our profile as a global energy maritime logistics company, while our strong balance sheet provides for further organic and inorganic value-accretive growth opportunities. SEGMENTAL FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE FOR 9M 2024 Revenues from Adnoc L&S Integrated Logistics segment increased to $1,671 million (AED6,137 million), up 51 per cent on 9M 2023. This growth was driven by the improved utilisation of Jack-Up Barges (JUBs) coupled with the expanded fleet; higher logistics volumes; accelerated Hail & Ghasha project delivery; and Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) project progress, in particular the contribution of the G-Island project (expected to be 70-75 per cent complete by year-end). Integrated Logistics EBITDA rose by 38 per cent to $505 million (AED1,856 million) for the first nine months of 2024 against the comparable period in 2023. Revenues from the Shipping segment increased 23 per cent to $745 million (AED2,737 million) on 9M 2023, driven by strong charter rates for Tankers and Dry Bulk, coupled with additional revenue from the four new Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) acquired in 2023. This was slightly offset by a reduction in profits from Gas Carriers due to cessation of spot charter-in operations and technical offhire days in Q1 2024. Shipping EBITDA increased 32 per cent to $316 million (AED1,159 million) from 9M 2023, contributing to a three-percentage point expansion in EBITDA margin to 42 per cent. Revenues from the Services segment increased 20 per cent to $252 million (AED924 million) compared to 9M 2023. This segment generated an EBITDA of $46 million (AED168 million), up 48 per cent, mainly powered by increased volumes in petroleum port and onshore terminal operations. STRATEGIC UPDATE Adnoc L&S continues to deliver on its growth strategy. The Navig8 acquisition, announced during the first half of 2024, will accelerate the Companys growth strategy. The transaction, which will be immediately value accretive, is projected to boost Adnoc L&Ss earnings per share by at least 20 per cent in the first full year. Regulatory approvals required to complete the deal are in process with anticipated completion remaining 31 March 2025 at the latest. During the year, the Company also strengthened its asset base with new build contracts for additional energy-efficient vessels. The Company awarded contracts of up to $2.5 billion (AED9.2 billion) for up to 10 new Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) Carriers, and through AW Shipping $1.4 billion (AED5 billion) for nine Very Large Ethane Carriers (VLECs) and approximately $500 million (AED1,836 million) for four Very Large Ammonia Carriers (VLACs). TECHNOLOGY AND AI ADOPTION The Companys Integrated Logistics business manages the complex coordination of transporting millions of tons of critical equipment and resources, coordinating over 80 offshore sites and hundreds of vessels. The Business Unit offers an Integrated Logistics Services Platform (ILSP) a turnkey offshore logistics solution that provides customers with planning and resource optimisation capabilities through a single digital interface. An AI- powered tool, the Integrated Logistics Management System (ILMS), supports the ILSP. The ILMS will help maritime planners to make complex operational decisions effectively to reduce delivery times by as much as 60 per cent. The Adnoc Groups Energy AI strategy is driving industry-wide innovation, and ILMS is one of the first use cases that showcases this shift. SUSTAINABILITY AND DECARBONISATION The ILMS is an innovative sustainability solution which helps improve operational efficiency. Through the use of ILMS it is anticipated that there will be a reduction in the number of vessels required in operations and therefore a reduction in carbon emissions by up to 30 per cent, specifically to the Company Integrated Logistics business segment. OUTLOOK The Company raises its medium-term investment guidance to include an incremental $3 billion+, and maintains its 2024 and medium-term profit & loss outlook: (excluding Navig8 contribution which will be guided separately on a proforma basis in the earnings presentation) Group Revenues: The Company maintains annual revenue growth of low to mid 30 per cent range in 2024. Over the medium term (2024-2028), the Company expects high single-digit year-on-year percentage growth. Group EBITDA: The Company anticipates annual EBITDA growth from 2023 to 2024 in the low 30 per cent range. Over the medium term (2024-2028), the Company targets average annual EBITDA growth in the mid-teens percentage wise. Group Net Income: The Company expects annual year-on-year net income growth in the low 20 per cent range into 2024. Over the medium term, the Company targets average annual net income growth in the low percentage teens. Growth Investments: The Company has significantly increased its capital expenditure guidance, reflecting our commitment to long-term growth and strategic expansion. We now anticipate an additional $3 billion+ by 2029, beyond the projects already announced, applying the same investment return criteria. Dividend policy: Remains unchanged with a projected total dividend payable for 2024 of $273 million (5 per cent increase from 2023 annualised dividend), balance 50 per cent for H2 2024 in Q2 2025, subject to approvals. Capital Structure: The Company targets a 2.0-2.5x net debt / EBITDA ratio over the medium term, with debt and free cash flows after dividends being the primary funding sources for growth investments. -TradeArabia News Service The Middle East Council of Shopping Centres & Retailers (MECS+R) hosted its first-ever Retail Congress Mena in Riyadh, from November 4 to 5, making a resounding impact on the Mena retail landscape. Bringing together industry giants, thought leaders, and key stakeholders, the congress unfolded in the prestigious Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah Hotel, under the inspiring theme GENESIS IGNITE: The Genesis of Vision 2030, Reigniting Retail. This historic debut in Saudi Arabia set the stage for engaging dialogue on the countrys vision for 2030, addressing the sectors role in national growth through transformative, sustainable, and customer-centered strategies. Key themes From dynamic discussions led by John Sanei, renowned futures strategist, to tech-driven insights from Veemal Gungadin, CEO of Gevme, the congress tackled key themes around strategic execution, technology integration, and leadership in a rapidly evolving market. At the heart of this years congress was the MECS+R Shopping Centre & Retailer Mena Awards, honouring trailblazers across the retail industry who are shaping the future of shopping and customer experiences across the Mena region. Acknowledging best practices in innovation, sustainability, and retail excellence, the awards spotlighted leaders and organisations who have demonstrated unparalleled commitment to industry advancement. 30th anniversary With the close of this landmark event in Riyadh, excitement is mounting for MECS+Rs 30th Anniversary Celebration in Dubai on December 12, 2024, hosted at the Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, UAE. This extraordinary event will gather industry pioneers, members, and partners to celebrate three decades of MECS+Rs impactful journey, featuring high-calibre networking, enriching discussions, and moments that pay tribute to the legacy and forward momentum of the organisation. This inaugural success in Saudi Arabia has set the stage for an even more dynamic gathering next year. We look forward to welcoming the industry back at the Retail Congress Mena 2025.--TradeArabia News Service Famous for his culinary mastery and global influence, Chef Morimoto has returned to Mondrian Doha for a four-day long celebration of Japanese cuisine at Morimoto Doha, a fusion of Japanese traditions and global flavours. From November 14, food enthusiasts and critics alike have been invited to a meet and greet experience, where they can dine with Chef Morimoto himself, enjoying a unique Japanese menu and gaining firsthand insight into his culinary expertise along with an exclusive, personalised Q&A. On November 15, guests have been invited to join the ultimate lively brunch from 12-3 pm. Followed by the exciting live fish-cutting demonstration at 7pm onwards, perfect for those seeking a truly all-immersive encounter. The show will go on with Morimotos curated omakase dinner on November 16, offering an exclusive selection of small plates crafted by the chef, leading into Sushi & Steak Night on November 17. Each event is set to captivate tastebuds, ignite passion for gastronomy and deepen the knowledge of fine Japanese dining from the man himself, a statement said. TradeArabia News Service Emirates NBD, a leading banking group in the MENAT (Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey) region, said it has joined hands with seven other financial institutions across Saudi Arabia to provide SAR5 billion ($1.3 billion) revolving credit facility to Riyadh Air. The kingdom's newest national airline, Riyadh Air is wholly owned by Saudi sovereign wealth fund PIF. Announcing the new finance deal, Emirates NBD saif the funding will provide critical support for Riyadh Airs operational launch, fleet acquisition, and infrastructure expansion, laying a strong foundation for its ambition to enable the Saudi capital to become a gateway to the world and a global destination for transportation, trade, and tourism. The credit facility is structured as an Islamic Revolving Credit Facility (RCF), designed to align with Sharia principles while offering Riyadh Air flexible access to capital for its operational needs, it stated. This sharia-compliant structure underscores Emirates NBDs commitment to innovative Islamic financing solutions that support growth within ethical and responsible frameworks. On the strategic funding, Naser Yousef, the CEO of Emirates NBD Saudi Arabia, said: "We are honoured to partner with Riyadh Air in this landmark initiative, which is integral to Saudi Arabias aspirations under Vision 2030. This revolving credit facility reflects our commitment to enabling the Kingdoms economic diversification agenda and supporting high-potential sectors like aviation and transportation." Ahmed Alghamdi, the Head of Corporate & Institutional Banking at Emirates NBD Saudi Arabia, pointed out that the transaction was a significant milestone for Riyadh Air as it established its footprint in the financial markets. "Emirates NBD is dedicated to providing bespoke financing solutions that empower our clients to achieve their growth objectives. Our partnership with Riyadh Air underscores our strategic role in advancing the Kingdoms transformation journey and bolstering its global competitiveness," he added.-TradeArabia News Service Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Tourism has announced that five-star hotels in capital Riyadh reached a 97% occupancy rate during the recent mid-year school break, and that overall, hotel and apartment occupancy in the city surpassed 90%. This surge in tourism is attributed to the Saudi Winter events calendar, Riyadh Season, and several international conferences held in the city, reported SPA. To further boost the tourism sector, the ministry said it was streamlining the process of licensing hospitality facilities, aiming at improving services offered both local and international visitors. Riyadh had welcomed 8.8 million domestic tourists and 1.3 million international tourists in the first half of 2024, it added. Trinidad and Tobago Red Force backed up skipper Joshua Da Silvas pre-game declaration that his pacers would lead the charge against Barbados Pride in the fifth round of the West Indies Four-Day Championship. Fast bowling would have been very much on the minds of the Kensington Oval curators as they prepared the pitch for the Barbados home match against T&T. Warming temperatures, not declining precipitation, have by far been the biggest triggers of the drought that has overpowered the Western climate since 2000, a new study finds. The study looked at drought trends over 75 years in 11 Western states, including Arizona, since 1948. It concluded that until 1999, declining rainfall and other precipitation was the principal cause of drought conditions, but that temperature increases have been the biggest driving force behind the 21st-century drought. Like many before it, the study directly tied the warming temperatures this century to human causes the emission of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide due to the burning of fossil fuels, including oil and natural gas. The bottom line is the warmer it gets the stronger the drought gets. How much warmer it gets depends on how much C02 is in the atmosphere, said Rong Fu, a co-author and a UCLA professor of oceanic and atmospheric sciences. Assuming temperatures keep rising, and that keeps increasing evaporation, droughts in the Western U.S. will be more intense, last longer, and become more frequent and widespread despite uncertainties in future precipitation, the study said. The study examined both temperature and precipitation records and computer model findings to reach its conclusions. Researchers from UCLA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the University of Colorado-Boulder collaborated on the study. It was published in the journal Science Advances. Since pre-industrial times, temperatures in the Western U.S. have risen faster than those worldwide, the study noted about 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit in this region compared to nearly 2.7 degrees worldwide. The studys key implication is that society needs to control greenhouse gas emissions enough to keep global temperatures from rising more than that 2.7-degree figure or at most the 3.6-degree figure worldwide, Fu said. Specifically, the study measured drought conditions not by measuring rainfall and snowfall, but by how water is being received by the Wests surface soils. If you have less rainfall, you lose more moisture. If you have higher evaporation demand, you also lose more moisture, Fu said. Another implication of the study is that if continued temperature increases which are forecast by many climate scientists continue to aggravate Southwestern droughts, that means flows on the Colorado and other Western rivers will continue declining, she said. The Colorado River provides drinking water to the Tucson and Phoenix areas, as well as drinking and irrigation supplies for 40 million people living in and near the entire seven-state river basin. Its annual average flow is down nearly 20% since 2000. Overall, precipitation may go up and down (over the years), but so far precipitation over the Western U.S. has not really changed significantly from 1948 up to now, said Fu. Some decades are dry. Some decades are wet. But theres not a strong decreasing (precipitation) trend and we didnt find any significant increases in the trend, and this is for the entire 11 Western states, Fu said. But when the temperature increases, with rainfall, it evaporates before it makes it to the reservoir or river, Fu said. Therefore, these river basins will be dry. The Colorado River will receive less and less flow, because the rainfall and the catchment area (that receives it) are more lost to evapotranspiration. Therefore, less could turn into runoff or streamflow to feed the Colorado, Fu said. Historically, precipitation deficit has been the dominant factor in Western U.S. droughts, whereas evaporative demand, largely controlled by surface temperature, has been a minor factor until recent decades, when droughts have become not only more pervasive but also more impactful over the Western U.S., said the study. The study also found that an increasing concurrence in recent years between precipitation deficits and heat waves amplifies water and energy demands; intensify heat and water stresses for humans, animals, and plants; and worsen air and water pollution. Particularly since 2020, the Western drought has triggered frequent power shortages from hydropower production, intense and widespread wildfires, low reservoir inflows, reduced agricultural productivity, and ecosystem degradation, said the new study, citing previous research by NOAA. The study cited the most recent severe drought in this region from 2020 through 2022 as a prime example of hotter weather overtaking precipitation as a principal cause of droughts. That was the Wests worst drought since instrumental records started being kept in 1895. The new study found that a precipitation shortfall was the biggest contributor to the recent dry period until summer 2021. But for the entire three years, evaporation triggered by hot weather was responsible for 61% of the regions dry conditions, the study concluded. The study also concluded the 2020-22 Western drought was essentially a 1,000-year drought, meaning it has a 1 in 1,000 chance of happening in a given year. But if greenhouse gas emissions increase at their highest possible forecast rate in the future, the chances of a drought period like that will increase to 1 in 60, the study found. By 2100, it said, the odds will be 1 in 6. Brad Udall, another climate scientist, of Colorado State University, said this studys findings amplify his long-held view that the West can experience droughts even when there is more rainfall. I keep saying to decision-makers, precipitation is not runoff. Do not confuse precipitation with runoff, said Udall, who has long raised strong concerns about increasing temperatures impacts on river flows. To get runoff, you have a series of challenges that water from the sky has to overcome, for water to end up in your rivers and creeks. All those processes are related to the demand the atmosphere has for water, the demand plants have for water, the demand soil wants for water, Udall said. He said hes not even sure the 2020-22 drought was as rare as a 1,000-year event. Trying to put return periods on these events is damn near impossible because the climate is changing. To have return period numbers requires a long stable climate, to be precise in calculating them. So I question that number. Whats important there is that that they are telling us these kind of events will be far more frequent in the future, Udall said of the new studys researchers. That makes perfect sense in a warming and drying climate. Vietnams Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, his spouse, and a high-ranking delegation arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on Saturday afternoon (local time), commencing a three-day visit to attend the G20 Summit and bilateral activities. The trip is made at the invitation of President of Brazil and Chair of the 2024 G20 Summit Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and his spouse. This is the first time PM Chinh has attended a G20 Summit. After a plane carrying the Vietnamese government leader landed at Galeao Air Force Base in Rio de Janeiro at 5:05 pm, he was welcomed by representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil, Vietnamese Ambassador to Brazil Bui Van Nghi, and staff of the Vietnamese Embassy in Brazil. The prime minister began his trip to Brazil by meeting with officials from the Vietnamese Embassy and members of the Vietnamese community in the South American country. He was scheduled to participate in two summit sessions, where he would share Vietnam's insights and strategies on two key priorities: promoting sustainable development and green energy, and combating poverty. These contributions are aimed at reinforcoing Vietnams role in addressing global challenges. A guard of honor greets Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his spouse at an air force base in Brazil, November 16, 2024. Photo: Duy Linh / Tuoi Tre The summit will also feature meetings between the top Vietnamese official and multiple leaders of other countries. Besides, PM Chinh will meet with the Brazilian president to review the implementation of high-ranking agreements signed during the formers official visit to Brazil in September last year. The upcoming meeting will provide an opportunity for the two leaders to discuss key future directions and effective measures to strengthen bilateral relations further. As part of his visit to Brazil, PM Chinh will also partake in activities celebrating the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, including the inauguration of a memorial plaque honoring President Ho Chi Minh in Rio de Janeiro. Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his spouse arrive in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, November 16, 2024, beginning a three-day visit to attend the G20 Summit and bilateral activities. Photo: Duy Linh / Tuoi Tre Like us on Facebook or follow us on X to get the latest news about Vietnam! Check out the latest news in Vietnam today: Politics -- Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, his spouse, and a high-ranking delegation of Vietnam arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on Saturday afternoon, beginning their three-day visit to attend the G20 Summit and bilateral activities. -- Vietnams State President Luong Cuong met with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on the sidelines of the 2024 APEC Economic Leaders' Week in Lima, Peru on Saturday. Society -- Vietnamese professor and doctor Nguyen Thi Ngoc Phuong on Saturday received a Ramon Magsaysay award, internationally regarded as the Asian version of the Nobel Prize, in the Philippines for researching the harmful impact of Agent Orange on human health and seeking justice for victims of this toxic defoliant. -- Police in Da Lat, a tourist city in Lam Dong Province of Vietnam's Central Highlands, are searching for a taxi driver who was denounced for attacking two passengers from Hanoi with pepper spray. -- A flamboyant tree branch fell, crushing a car parked on Nguyen Chi Thanh Street in Da Nang City, central Vietnam on Saturday. -- Super Typhoon Man-yi was centered in the eastern waters of the central region of the Philippines at 1:00 am on Sunday and may make landfall in Luzon Island before moving toward the East Vietnam Sea to become the ninth storm to strike the waterway this year, according to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting. Lifestyle -- The administration in Vinh Long Province, southern Vietnam on Saturday opened the first-ever Red Ceramic BrickGreen Economy Festival, which will last until November 23, featuring artistic performances, a fireworks display, a drone light show, a fair of 700-800 booths, and other activities. World News -- Diplomats from the Group of 20 major economies struggled on Saturday to overcome differences on paying to tackle climate change, taxing the super rich and addressing the Ukraine conflict as they negotiated a joint statement before their leaders' summit, according to Reuters. -- Ten newborn babies died from burns and suffocation after a fire swept through a neonatal intensive care unit in northern India, Reuters reported, citing a government official on Saturday. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Ho Chi Minh City launched a 2024 speed campaign called Lets Drive Slow for Childrens Future on the sidelines of a ceremony in remembrance of those losing their lives to traffic crashes on Sunday morning. The city expects the slow-driving campaign will help decrease traffic-related deaths and injuries. More than 1,230 traffic accidents occurred in Ho Chi Minh City between January and October, killing 380 people and injuring 768 others, heard the event. The event, held by the Ho Chi Minh City Traffic Safety Committee, was attended by deputy secretary of the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee Nguyen Ho Hai and many other officials. This year is the 13th year that the city and other localities nationwide have organized a remembrance event for the victims of traffic accidents. The remembrance ceremony was aimed at calling on residents to take action for a safe and civilized traffic environment and for those who are alive. These numbers reveal the devastating impact of traffic accidents, leaving victims families and friends with lasting trauma and posing a significant challenge for authorities. Nguyen Thanh Loi from the municipal Traffic Safety Committee explained that the event and campaign aim to highlight the seriousness of traffic accidents, raise public awareness about road safety, and urge strict adherence to traffic regulations. Residents in Ho Chi Minh City pay tribute to those who died in traffic accidents, November 17, 2024. Photo: Thu Dung / Tuoi Tre Loi also stressed that the number of traffic crashes involving children aged from six to 18 remains high. Specifically, the city had recorded 145 traffic accidents in the year to October, claiming the lives of 19 childrens and injuring 78 others. Most of the young victims were found riding a motorcycle under the legal age, not wearing a helmet while riding, steering a motorcycle without a drivers license, speeding up, or carrying more people than allowed. In Vietnam, traffic accidents leave over 20 people dead and some 30 others wounded a day. Between January and October, the nation reported over 19,510 traffic accidents, killing 8,990 people and injuring 14,505 others, according to the General Statistics Office of Vietnam. The numbers of crashes and injuries rose 5.7 percent and 13.9 percent, respectively, year on year, while the deaths inched down 8.4 percent year on year, local media reported. Statistics announced at some international conferences indicated that driving five percent above the speed limit increases the crash rate by 10 percent and the fatality rate by 20 percent. Pedestrians have an up-to-80-percent risk of death if they are hit by a vehicle traveling at 50 kilometers per hour. A pedestrian has a 90-percent chance of survival if struck by a vehicle traveling at 30kph or less. Like us on Facebook or follow us on X to get the latest news about Vietnam! As the world observes World Prematurity Day (WPD) on Sunday, Vietnam is joining global efforts to raise awareness about the challenges faced by premature infants and their families. This years theme, Over 13 million babies born prematurely every year. Access to quality care everywhere!, underscores the urgent need for equitable healthcare for preterm babies worldwide. In Vietnam, preterm births account for approximately 45 percent of all child mortality cases, reflecting the critical need for improved neonatal care. Recognizing this, UNICEF Vietnam, in collaboration with Kimberly-Clark, the Ministry of Health, and northern Bac Ninh Province, hosted a special event on Saturday to promote access to quality care for newborns, especially those with low birth weight or born prematurely. Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Health Tran Van Thuan drew attention to a unified national strategy to reduce premature and low birth weight births, as well as infant mortality rates. Success requires not only the efforts of the health sector but also collaboration from ministries, local authorities, and communities, he said. Thuan also mentioned the role of maternal awareness and called for stronger support from both international and domestic organizations to improve prenatal care, prevent premature births, and ensure comprehensive treatment for preterm infants. Deputy Minister of Health Tran Van Thuan speaks at a meeting held in Bac Ninh Province, northern Vietnam on November 16, 2024 in response to World Prematurity Day (November 17). Photo: UNICEF Silvia Danailov, UNICEF representative to Vietnam, stressed the urgency of addressing healthcare disparities, noting that timely and equitable access to quality care can significantly improve survival rates and long-term outcomes for preterm infants. As we celebrate the resilience of these infants and their families, we also honor those lost to preventable complications, underscoring the importance of our work, she said. World Prematurity Day was established in 2008 to shine a light on the global crisis of preterm births, with UNICEF and its partners working tirelessly to address the issue. Today, the initiative unites individuals and organizations worldwide in efforts to prevent preterm births and improve care for babies born too soon. In Vietnam, UNICEF continues to lead efforts to engage families, healthcare professionals, and policymakers in finding sustainable solutions. Through initiatives like Saturdays event in Bac Ninh, the country is making strides toward ensuring every child has access to the care they need to survive and thrive. Like us on Facebook or follow us on X to get the latest news about Vietnam! The administration in Vinh Long Province, southern Vietnam on Saturday opened the first-ever Red Ceramic BrickGreen Economy Festival, which will last until November 23, featuring artistic performances, a fireworks display, and a drone light show. The opening ceremony was held in the ceramic production craft village along Thay Cai Canal in Mang Thit District. Through the captivating art performances, visitors will be brought down the history of the brick villages founding and development. The event also highlights the beauty of the 100-year-old traditional craft village and the Mekong Delta regions desire for green growth. Besides, the fest features a fair of 700-800 booths showcasing agricultural, commercial, and tourism products and services, along with various seminars and competitions, including a boat race. The festival is also meant to set Vietnams record of 102 dishes and side dishes made out of tau hu ky (tofu skin). During the opening ceremony, the provincial leader unveiled a master plan to establish a conservation area for the Mang Thit brick village, dubbed the 'kingdom of bricks,' and transform it into a distinctive cultural heritage site dedicated to red ceramic bricks by 2045. Like us on Facebook or follow us on X to get the latest news about Vietnam! By IANS Ranchi : A local court in Jamshedpur Wednesday issued an arrest warrant against Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray for his allegedly provocative speech against the Bihari community in Mumbai two months ago. Support TwoCircles The arrest warrant was issued by judicial magistrate D.C. Awasthi after Thackeray failed to appear before the district court Wednesday. The MNS chief in March this year had used provocative speech against non-Maharashtrians, particularly against Biharis. A lawyer of Jamshedpur had filed a case against Thackeray in the court abd the court issued a notice to Thackeray. Since no one appeared on his behalf the court later issued a directive to him to appear personally. By Najiya O, TwoCircles.net Kozhikode: How do we celebrate our achievements, especially when it is an academic milestone? For many, it is posting a proud announcement on social media, celebrating with family and friends and sharing the moments with the world. But for Noorjahan, a 37-year-old woman from Malappuram, the celebration of her doctorate was a unique affair one that blended tradition, personal triumph and community spirit in a way rarely seen. Instead of a quiet reflection or a typical party, she hosted what she called a Ph.D. wedding, erecting a grand pandal (a traditional tent used for large gatherings) outside her home and inviting close family, friends and those who had supported her journey. Support TwoCircles She wanted to highlight the significance of the occasion in a way that went beyond the usual. Why not celebrate an academic achievement like we celebrate a wedding, the arrival of a child or a babys first haircut? she asked, reflecting on the importance of her journey. Noorjahan invited not just her friends, but also those who had been part of her research or who had supported her along the way. We always focus on the results, but we do not often talk about the process that leads to them, she told TwoCircles.net. Her aim was to open a conversation about that very process the often-overlooked work behind the doctorate. Despite her active presence on social media, she chose not to post about the event herself. Instead, the world learned about her unconventional celebration through the posts of her friends and well-wishers. It was one of these posts that led to the term Ph.D. wedding, coined by writer and social critic Emmar Kinalur, who attended the event. In his Facebook post, Kinalur recalled the loud applause that followed when Noorjahan spoke about her journey, particularly from the women and girls in the audience. The Everyday Lives of Malabars Muslim Women For Noorjahan, the uniqueness of her celebration mirrored the unconventional nature of her research. Her thesis, titled Negotiating the Everyday: A Study on Marital Practices in the Patrilineal Kinship System of Malabar Mappila Women, delves deep into the lives of Muslim women in the Malabar region of Kerala. What inspired her to choose this topic? For Noorjahan, the subject was deeply personal and autobiographical. When she began her Ph.D. journey in 2014, the societal discourse was dominated by debates over reducing the marriageable age of Muslim girls to 16. This reminded her of the negotiations she herself had to make to pursue higher education. I had to convince people at every stage of my life why I was doing a Ph.D.; why I was going to Mumbai; and whether it would delay having children, Noorjahan explained. The decision to pursue her research at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) in Mumbai was also a negotiation, as the institution offered an off-campus option for those with an M.Phil. She was one of many women balancing education, work and family, all while negotiating the pressures of everyday life. Noorjahans research journey was not an easy one. It took her a decade to complete, during which she juggled the demands of raising two children, teaching in colleges, working as a psychiatric social worker, co-authoring a book on a prominent Kerala journalist and contributing to social media and magazines. This process has elevated my perspectives beyond skill development and knowledge growth, she wrote on her Facebook wall. Looking through that lens, this was also an evolutionary process; and I am proud of it. Guardianship and Widowhood When asked about the most significant findings from her research, Noorjahan pointed to two key aspects: guardianship and widowhood. These issues, though long present in society, took on new meanings in the context of her work. She explored the concept of wali (guardian) in Islamic law, a role typically filled by a father or brother, but in the absence of a male guardian, a qazi or judge assumes this position during the wedding ceremony. However, Noorjahan highlighted how, in practice, this system often lacks real responsibility, and the role of the guardian is reduced to a ceremonial one. Equally important in her research was the issue of widowhood. Noorjahan pointed out that the traditional practices surrounding widowhood in the Malabar region have been influenced by Brahminical patriarchal systems, despite Islamic principles that allow widows the freedom to decide their future once the iddah (waiting) period is over. Instead of offering this autonomy, society often seeks to rehabilitate widows within the same patrilineal framework, framing their inclusion as a virtuous act of charity. While we call it charity or virtuous deeds, it is women who suffer under this framework, she argued. The Support of Women in Her Life Throughout her academic journey, Noorjahan found steadfast support in the women around her, particularly her mother, Saleemath V a retired teacher from their hometown in Areekode. Saleemath was a constant presence, travelling with her daughter to Mumbai, caring for the children when Noorjahan was busy and offering her moral and emotional support. My mother was also learning and changing in her own way, just as I was evolving through my education, Noorjahan said, underscoring the importance of familial support for women pursuing careers or higher education after marriage and children. Saleemath herself reflected on her daughters resilience, saying it was Noorjahans determination and steadfastness that had enabled her to complete her Ph.D. despite the many challenges, including the demands of family life. Many women give up halfway, but Noorjahan did not, she proudly noted. Empowering Women Now, Dr. Noorjahan works as the head of the Department for the Child and Women Resilience Project at Thanal an NGO in Kozhikode run by the Daya Charitable Trust. The project aims to improve the lives of widowed, deserted, divorced or separated women and their children in the Wayanad and Kannur districts of Kerala. Noorjahans work continues to reflect her dedication to empowering women and advocating for their rights, a theme that runs through both her academic research and her professional life. Through her unique Ph.D. wedding and her groundbreaking research, Dr. Noorjahan has not only celebrated her own academic achievement but also sparked a wider conversation about the roles of women especially in the context of the Malabar Muslim community. Her work, her resilience and her commitment to her community continue to inspire those around her especially the women whose lives she seeks to improve. Dr. Md Tabrez Alam As Jharkhand celebrates its 24th foundation day, the journey from its birth to its current challenges and future aspirations is one of resilience and hope. It is a significant milestone for the region that has fought long and hard for its identity. From its origins in the freedom struggle to the formation of a state in 2000, Jharkhands journey is deeply rooted in the sacrifices of its people and the tireless efforts of indigenous communities. Support TwoCircles The story of Jharkhand is a tale of contradictions. While the state boasts a wealth of mineral resources, urban hubs like Jamshedpur, Ranchi and Dhanbad and a growing economy, the realities on the ground often tell a different story. Despite a robust GDP growth and industrial development, much of the population particularly tribal and marginalised groups remains mired in poverty, illiteracy and lack of basic infrastructure. Decades of political instability, inadequate governance and exclusionary policies have left many people feeling disconnected from the very state that was meant to uplift them. The Birth of Jharkhand: A Legacy of Struggle Jharkhands formation on November 15, 2000, was the culmination of a long-standing demand for a separate state that would address the socio-economic and cultural needs of its indigenous people. The regions history is a testimony to resistance first against British colonial rule, led by iconic figures such as Birsa Munda, and later against the exploitation and neglect under the Bihar administration. The formation of the state was not merely a political victory but the fulfillment of a dream of self-determination and justice for the regions marginalised communities. However, 24 years on, the state continues to grapple with issues that have long defined its existence: exploitation of its natural resources, land alienation, political instability and poverty. Tribal communities, which make up 26.3% of the states population, continue to face displacement due to mining and industrial projects, while many non-tribal communities struggle with inadequate access to education, healthcare and employment opportunities. Jharkhands Socio-Cultural Mosaic: A Complex Tapestry Despite its challenges, Jharkhand is a land of cultural richness and diversity. Its tribal communities, which are the heart of the state, have long preserved a unique way of life rooted in their connection to the land. However, it is important to acknowledge the often-overlooked role of non-tribal communities, particularly Muslims, who have made significant contributions to the states history and development. People like Sheikh Bhikhari, who was a prominent figure in the statehood movement, symbolise the vital role that Muslims have played in Jharkhands journey. Yet, this community, which makes up 14.5% of the states population, continues to face marginalisation, communal stereotyping and underrepresentation in both political and economic spheres. The story of Jharkhands Muslims is a story of resilience in the face of adversity. Despite their significant role in the freedom struggle and the demand for statehood, they often remain sidelined in the states political and economic processes. The Bengali-speaking Muslim community in Santhal Pargana, for instance, has long been unjustly labeled as Bangladeshi infiltrators despite their historic contributions to the state. This stigmatisation, fueled by divisive politics, undermines Jharkhands pluralistic identity and weakens the social fabric of the state. Political Representation, Socio-Economic Inclusion While Jharkhand has made strides in some areas, the political representation of Muslims and other marginalised groups continues to be inadequate. Despite making up 15% of the population, Muslims have seen a decline in their political representation, with fewer candidates from the community receiving tickets in recent elections. This lack of political will not only harms democratic principles but also alienates a significant portion of the electorate depriving them of their rightful voice in governance. Education, a critical tool for socio-economic advancement, remains another area where systemic neglect is evident. The Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) for Muslims in higher education is alarmingly low, and government policies have only exacerbated this disparity. The conversion of Urdu-medium schools into general schools in 2022, for instance, led to the alienation of many Muslim children. It has further marginalised them from the mainstream educational system. Lack of employment opportunities, along with restricted access to resources, continues to hinder the communitys social mobility. A Roadmap for Inclusive Development As Jharkhand moves forward, the need for inclusive development is more pressing than ever. The states political landscape remains fragmented by identity-based politics, and systemic inequalities continue to persist, particularly for tribal and minority communities. To address these challenges, Jharkhand must prioritise equitable development by: Ensuring Political Representation:Greater efforts must be made to ensure fair political representation for all communities, especially marginalised groups like Muslims, who have long been underrepresented in decision-making bodies. Fostering Economic Empowerment:The state needs targeted economic policies that focus on skill development and employment generation for marginalised groups, particularly in rural and underdeveloped areas. Strengthening Social Harmony:Countering divisive narratives through community engagement and promoting interfaith dialogue will help preserve Jharkhands pluralistic identity. Promoting Inclusive Education:The state must strengthen its education system, particularly by supporting Urdu-medium schools and improving access to higher education for marginalised communities. A Vision for Jharkhands Future While the state has made notable strides in certain areas, much work remains to be done to ensure that its rich cultural heritage and mineral wealth translate into meaningful development for all its people. To realise the dreams of its founders, the state must address systemic inequalities, promote inclusive governance and foster a sense of unity that transcends ethnic and religious divides. Only by doing so can the state truly harness its potential and emerge as a beacon of sustainable progress in Indias federal landscape. Policy Recommendations Ensure Political Representation: Encourage equitable representation of all communities in electoral politics. Foster Economic Empowerment: Develop targeted programs for skill development and employment generation, particularly for marginalised groups. Strengthen Social Harmony: Counter divisive narratives through community engagement, promoting interfaith dialogue and celebrating Jharkhands pluralistic identity. Promote Inclusive Education: Reinforce and strengthen Urdu schools, improve access to quality education for marginalised communities and address the GER disparity. (Dr. Md Tabrez Alam recently earned his PhD from IIDS, New Delhi, and is an academic and social activist. His research and writings, including his book, Muslim as Unequal: A Socio-economic Study of Jharkhand, delve into issues of social inequality and the marginalisation of minority communities. He tweets @ktabrezshams. Views are personal.) Directed by Ishiro Honda, Godzilla (1954) stands as a poignant and haunting reflection on the horrors of war. It remains a powerful cinematic response to nuclear warfare and the lasting psychological trauma of World War II, particularly the legacy of the atomic bomb. Released less than a decade after the devastating bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the epic kaiju film serves as an allegory for Japan's collective fear and grief of a nation confronted by its vulnerability. Rising from the ocean's depths, Godzilla is not just a prehistoric monster awakened and mutated by nuclear testing. It is the living manifestation of the destructive power of atomic weaponry, a terrifying reminder of the nuclear tests that ravaged the environment and altered the course of human history. The creature's rampage through Tokyo is more than just a spectacle of destruction. It is symbolic of the destructive potential of scientific experimentation unchecked by moral consideration, paralleling the devastation wrought by the bombs. The citizens' terror reflects a nation still grappling with the psychological scars of the war and their inability to control the unrelenting forces unleashed by humankind's technological advancements. Through Godzilla, Honda, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Takeo Murata, explores the tragic reality of war as a powerful instrument that injures societies and leaves lasting trauma that shapes future generations. At its core, the plot ultimately serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific progress when it disregards its environmental impact, critiquing the pursuit of unchecked technological advancement and its capacity to harm the natural world. The film portrays reckless experimentation as a threat to human life and a disruption to the balance of nature, emphasizing the consequences of such hubris in the form of ecological disaster and its irreversible damage. As a product of nuclear testing, Godzilla's appearance is a terrifying force highlighting the environmental toll and underscoring the dangerous consequences of atomic energy. The film is a sobering reflection on the dangers of playing God with forces far beyond human control. In its depiction of a powerless government and scientific community struggling to combat the monster, Godzilla speaks to the unforeseen repercussions of technological progress. The classic Japanese film is essentially a commentary and warning on the balance between the relentless pursuit of innovation and the natural world. Although the franchise sequels have arguably strayed from the original's central themes, Honda's film remains a powerful reminder of the potentially catastrophic outcomes of our destructive actions and their lasting impact on both the environment and future generations healing from those actions. Vital Disc Stats: The Ultra HD Blu-ray This 4K Ultra HD edition of Ishiro Honda's Godzilla (1954) comes courtesy of The Criterion Collection (spine #594), celebrating the film's 70th anniversary. A tripe-layered BD100 disc comfortably sits atop a Region A locked, BD50 disc, which also contains the 81-minute version for American audiences by Terry O. Morse, Godzilla, King of the Monsters! Both are housed inside a digipak plastic tray with a cool pop-up surprise when opened and a side-sliding slipcover. Also included is a 16-page booklet with an insightful essay entitled "Poetry After the A-Bomb" by author and film critic J. Hoberman. There are no trailers before being greeted by the standard menu options and an animated screen with music playing in the background. LIMA Viet Nam will continue actively contributing to and effectively implementing cooperation orientations and directions of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), State President Luong Cuong affirmed while addressing the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Lima, Peru, on November 16 (local time). In his remarks, Cuong noted that while the global economic landscape is fraught with challenges and uncertainties, it is equally illuminated by the presence of significant opportunities. Geopolitical conflict, trade friction and macro-level instability have reduced global growth prospects. Yet the Asia-Pacific economies have been able to maintain a stable growth trajectory, and remain the engine and driver of global growth, he elaborated. The leader went on to say that despite the rising tide of protectionism, supply chain disruptions, and polarisation, there is a strong demand for strengthened international economic cooperation and integration. According to Cuong, development and digital gaps, and global environmental issues continue to be top challenges. Yet the development of transformative technologies and the increasingly profound and comprehensive digitisation and green transition are bringing about new and innovative solutions and opportunities for cooperation. In this context, to enhance APEC's role and amplify its contributions, the Vietnamese leader proposed major lines of action. He suggested continuing to advance trade and investment liberalisation, and strengthening the rules-based multilateral trading system. We must cultivate and sustain vibrant economic linkages, facilitating the seamless flow of finance, technology, knowledge, and labour across borders. Establishing robust and resilient supply chains is essential while making decisive strides towards realising a Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific. It is necessary to expedite cooperation programmes and initiatives aimed at inclusive growth and technology, he continued. We must position people at the forefront of digital transformation and green transition. It is crucial to tackle the digital divide and prioritise support for vulnerable communities in remote regions, ensuring they not only access but also benefit from digital innovations. This requires substantial investment in green and digital infrastructure, alongside collaborative efforts to disseminate cutting-edge technological applications in addressing global challenges, particularly climate change. APEC should continually enhance global institutions and governance, the leader said. We must advance APEC's structural reform and improve its institutions to create an agile, adaptive, forward-thinking entity capable of spearheading new growth avenues. Expanding technical support and capacity-building projects for developing countries is vital. We should also incentivise the participation of businesses and communities, who are drivers and beneficiaries of APECs cooperation. In pursuing these goals, Viet Nam is actively collaborating with APEC partners on the APEC Structural Reform Agenda for 2026-2030 to boost its operational effectiveness, he affirmed. Following discussions, the leaders adopted a joint statement and endorsed two signature initiatives proposed by host country Peru: the Lima Roadmap to Promote the Transition to Formal and Global Economy and the Ichma Statement on a New Look to Advance the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific. They also welcomed the Republic of Korea (RoK) as the host of APEC 2025, China for APEC 2026, and Viet Nam for APEC 2027. Later the same day, the Vietnamese State President and his entourage left Lima, concluding their successful trip to attend the 2024 APEC Economic Leaders Week and pay official visits to Chile and Peru. VNS RIO DE JANEIRO Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, his spouse and a high-ranking delegation of Viet Nam arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on November 16 afternoon (local time), beginning their three-day working visit to attend the G20 Summit and have bilateral activities. The trip is made at the invitation of President of Brazil and Chair of the 2024 G20 Summit Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and his spouse. This is the fifth time Viet Nam has been invited to attend a G20 Summit and the first time PM Chinh has attended the summit. Welcoming PM Chinh and his entourage at Rio de Janeiro airport were representatives of the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Vietnamese Ambassador to Brazil Bui Van Nghi, staff of the Vietnamese Embassy to Brazil and representatives of the Vietnamese community in Brazil. Focusing on the theme Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet, the 19th G20 Summit brings together leaders of official G20 members, heads of state and government of 19 guest countries and leaders of 15 key international organisations. PM Chinh is scheduled to attend and deliver speeches at activities within the framework of the G20 Summit, conveying the message of a dynamic, innovative Viet Nam which stands ready to take on global responsibilities; and make proactive and responsible contributions to the world's key and urgent issues, commensuating Viet Nam's position and strength as it enters a new era of national development. On this occasion, he will have bilateral meetings with leaders of economies, countries and international organisations. In particular, he will have bilateral activities with Brazil, such as talks with Brazilian President Lula da Silva, and participation in activities to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between Viet Nam and Brazil. Through these activities, his working trip affirms Viet Nam's position, prestige, responsibility and contribution to important international forums, further strengthens and opens a new phase in the relationship between Viet Nam and Brazil as well as other countries and international organisations, contributing to peace, stability, cooperation and development in the two regions and the world. PM Chinh and his spouse had a meeting with staff of the Vietnamese Embassy and the Vietnamese community in Brazil on November 16 afternoon right after arriving in Rio de Janeiro. VNS HA NOI Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son has affirmed the success of State President Luong Cuongs attendance at the 2024 APEC Economic Leaders Week as well as his official visits to Chile and Peru. He told the press that the trip represents a significant step in implementing Viet Nams foreign policy of multilateralisation and diversification of international relations outlined at the 13th National Party Congress and Directive 25-CT/TW of the Party Central Committees Secretariat on enhancing and elevating multilateral diplomacy by 2030. The official visits to Chile and Peru delivered an important message to the international community, particularly to countries in Latin America and the Caribbean region, about Viet Nam's consistent foreign policy and its emphasis on fostering ties with the nations that have traditional friendship, including Chile and Peru, Son said. The visits highlight the bright prospects for relations between Viet Nam and these two countries, the official continued, adding strengthening ties with these South American nations will also create favourable conditions for Viet Nam to expand its cooperation with other countries in Latin America. Meanwhile, the State Presidents attendance at the APEC Economic Leaders Week reaffirms Viet Nam's commitment to APEC cooperation and its readiness to contribute further to peace, collaboration, and development in the Asia-Pacific and the world. Viet Nam's hosting of APEC 2027 serves as a clear testament to this commitment. Cuongs remarks at the event once again conveyed a strong message about a Viet Nam entering a new era the one of the nations rise, and about a dynamic and innovative Viet Nam that is emerging as a leading destination for international investors, the official stressed. Regarding the outcomes of the two official visits, Son emphasised that various important documents were signed on this occasion, laying the foundation for deepening the Comprehensive Partnership between Viet Nam and Chile and the multifaceted cooperation between Viet Nam and Peru. The visits have contributed to deepening political trust and strengthening the strong relations between the high-ranking leaders of Viet Nam and those of Chile and Peru, while providing new momentum and opening up many opportunities for cooperation between Viet Nam and the two countries in traditional fields such as agriculture, security and defence, education, and tourism, and expanding the collaboration to new spheres like innovation, green transition, digital transformation, climate change response, energy, oil and gas, and telecommunications. Son noted that Viet Nam and the two countries will continue enhancing political trust by maintaining exchanges at all levels, especially at the high level, and through Party, State, Government, and National Assembly channels, as well as people-to-people exchange, ensure the effective functioning of existing cooperation mechanisms, and explore the possibility of establishing new, effective cooperation mechanisms between ministries, sectors, and localities. They will facilitate business connectivity, trade and investment promotion, and transportation and logistics links, and increase exchanges in culture and education, and people-to-people interaction. With Peru, the two sides will discuss the possibility of Viet Nam opening a diplomatic mission in Lima in the time ahead. Viet Nam and the two countries will also step up the implementation of the reached agreements, Son said. Viet Nam and Peru will soon work on advancing their relationship to a new level and enhance exchanges on how to promote cooperation in high-tech fields such as digital transformation, digital infrastructure, smart city, and cybersecurity. Based on the strong consensus reached by the high-ranking leaders of Viet Nam and Chile on establishing a partnership and strategic connectivity between their economies, the two countries will enhance cooperation and exchange experiences in the areas where they can complement each other, such as security and defence, culture, education, environmental protection, climate change adaptation, green and sustainable growth, agricultural product processing, mining, and innovation. With regard to the APEC Economic Leaders Week, Son said over the course of more than two days, the State President participated in all activities of the APEC leaders, held numerous bilateral meetings with high-ranking leaders of Viet Nam's key partners, and had working sessions with the Presidents/CEOs of major global groups. Cuong also delivered an important speech at the APEC 2024 CEO Summit, attended by over 1,000 top business leaders from the region and around the world. Leaders from various ministries and agencies also participated in many related activities. The Vietnamese delegation actively coordinated with other APEC members to contribute to the drafting of the APEC leaders' joint statement and other important documents of the summit. The State President shared views on the trends, opportunities, and challenges in the region and the world, and proposed key directions for APEC to continue playing its role as the engine and driving force of global economic growth, while ensuring that people remain at the centre of economic development. His remarks emphasised the core principles of APEC, multilateralism, and free trade, and affirmed the importance of unity and consensus among members, Son said, noting the speech was highly valued by other APEC leaders. According to Son, Viet Nam will continue to actively and proactively participate in APEC cooperation, with priorities given to promoting the areas that are strategically important to the development of the regional and global economy in the new era, especially innovation, digital transformation, green transition, renewable energy, smart agriculture, climate change response, and the development of high-quality human resources. Viet Nam will work with other member economies to gradually realise APEC's major initiative of establishing the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP), and will make thorough preparations for its hosting of APEC 2027, contributing to successfully implementing the APEC Vision 2040 and enhancing the country's international role and position. VNS LIMA State President Luong Cuong had a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru on Saturday morning (local time) on the sidelines of the APEC 2024 Leaders Week in Peru. At the meeting, PM Ishiba emphasised said Viet Nam is always a priority partner of Japan in the region. President Cuong underscored that Viet Nam considers Japan one of its reliable, important and long-term partners, and supports Japan's active contributions to peace, stability, cooperation and development in the region and the world. The two leaders expressed their delight at the effective implementation of the Viet Nam-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia and the World. Discussing cooperation directions in the coming time, Cuong proposed the two sides strengthen political trust, increase annual high-level meetings, promote substantive defence and security cooperation through the effective implementation of signed cooperation agreements. According to him, the two sides need to strengthen economic cooperation - the key pillar of the bilateral relationship, and continue to expand comprehensive cooperation to new areas, such as digital transformation, green transition. He called on Japan to support Viet Nam in personel training for the semiconductor industry with university degrees or higher by 2030. Affirming that the affection and mutual understanding between the two countries' people are the foundation for promoting bilateral relations, Cuong suggested further deepening cooperation in human resources training, especially strategic-level managers, cultural and people-to-people exchanges, locality-to-locality collaboration, and tourism. Ishiba agreed with Cuong's proposals, affirming that he will direct ministries and agencies to concretise the new relationship framework. The Japanese Government will continue to have policies to encourage and support foreign communities in Japan, including Vietnamese people to live, study and work in a convenient manner there. He highly valued the Vietnamese student community in Japan. Also at the meeting, the two leaders affirmed to continue to closely coordinate on regional and international issues of mutual concern in order to actively contribute to maintaining peace, stability and development in the region and the world, and strengthen cooperation at multilateral forums, international and regional organisations, such as the United Nations, APEC, ASEAN and Mekong. VNA/VNS LIMA Viet Nams State President Luong Cuong met his counterpart from the Republic of Korea (RoK) Yoon Suk Yeol on the sidelines of the 2024 APEC Economic Leaders' Week in Lima, Peru, on Saturday (local time). The two leaders expressed their delight at the robust development of the Viet Nam-RoK relations, which are at their best to date, especially following the elevation of the bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Cuong affirmed that Viet Nam always attaches importance to its relationship with the RoK, saying the two countries have become reliable, effective, and pragmatic partners across a wide range of areas, including politics, economy, trade, culture, and people-to-people exchange. He conveyed the warm regards from Party General Secretary To Lam, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, and National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man to Yoon and other leaders of the RoK. For his part, Yoon congratulated Cuong on his new role, stressing that Viet Nam remains a key partner of the RoK in advancing the ASEAN-RoK Solidarity Initiative and the RoKs Indo-Pacific Strategy. With regard to future cooperation, the two leaders agreed to maintain regular exchange of delegations and high-level contacts, share updates on domestic developments as well as views on international and regional issues of mutual concern. They pledged to continue fostering economic cooperation, aiming to achieve a bilateral trade volume of US$100 billion in the near term and $150 billion by 2030 in a more balanced manner. The RoK agreed to prioritise support for Viet Nam in key areas, including training high-quality human resources, establishing R&D centres, transferring technology, and helping Vietnamese businesses further integrate into global supply chains led by Korean groups. The RoK will provide ODA for Viet Nam at larger scales and preferential terms to invest in projects on strategic infrastructure, climate change response, green transition, and energy transformation. The two sides consented to collaborate closely in international and regional issues of shared concern and to support each others candidacies at multilateral cooperation mechanisms and international organisations. For the East Sea (internationally known as the South China Sea) issue, they underscored the importance of maintaining peace, stability, security, safety, and freedom of navigation and overflight, resolving disputes through peaceful means, and in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). On this occasion, Cuong invited Yoon to visit Viet Nam and expressed his appreciation for the latters invitation to visit the RoK at an appropriate time. The two agreed to arrange these visits through diplomatic channels. VNA/VNS HA NOI President of the National Assembly (NA) of Armenia Alen Simonyan arrived in Ha Noi on November 17 evening, beginning his week-long official visit to Viet Nam at the invitation of NA Chairman Tran Thanh Man. He was welcomed at Noi Bai International Airport by Pham Phu Binh, permanent member of the Vietnamese NAs Committee for Foreign Affairs, and Armenian Ambassador to Viet Nam Suren Baghdasaryan. Viet Nam and Armenia established diplomatic relations in 1992. The two countries have obtained great achievements in national construction, socio-economic development and international integration. Armenia has given the Vietnamese people valuable assistance in national construction and defence, including the training of Vietnamese officials and students. Political ties between Viet Nam and Armenia are growing, with the exchange of all-level delegations. These visits have contributed to maintaining traditional relations and multifaceted cooperation between the two countries. The two sides wish to promote all-round and substantive collaboration on par with the good traditional friendship as well as the potential of the two countries. Bilateral economic and trade cooperation has shown positive signs thanks to the implementation of the Free Trade Agreement between Viet Nam and the Eurasian Economic Union, of which Armenia is a member. Viet Nam - Armenia trade reached US$62.6 million in 2022, up 469 per cent from a year earlier, and hit $342 million in 2023, an increase of 516 per cent compared to 2022. There remains room for both countries to boost cooperation in such areas as economics, trade, science, and education. VNA/VNS In the rugged landscapes of Thanh Hoa Province, Lang Chanh District finds itself at a critical juncture, faced with a persistent shortage of teachers. Despite extensive advertising and recruitment campaigns, responses have been limited, highlighting the difficulty in attracting teachers to this remote, mountainous area. According to Nguyen Ngoc Son, head of the districts Department of Education and Training, the district currently has a shortfall in 92 teaching positions compared to its quota for the 2024-2025 academic year. This staffing issue is part of a broader national challenge impacting education in mountainous and rural regions across Viet Nam. In Lang Chanh District, the problem is further exacerbated by low rates of university enrolment among local students, with very few choosing to train as teachers. This trend is coupled with a strong pull towards urban areas, where opportunities, amenities, and infrastructure are more developed, while incentives for working in these remote regions remain insufficient. Son explained that one of the major barriers is finance. The supplemental salary for teachers working in mountainous areas over those in the lowlands is just 0.1 per cent above the base wageequating to about VN234,000 (roughly US$10). This meagre difference does little to pull in candidates for the job, especially in areas where living conditions are challenging and support is limited. This challenge is not isolated to Lang Chanh but is seen in other mountainous districts in Thanh Hoa, such as Quan Son, Quan Hoa, and Muong Lat. These areas experience similar difficulties, struggling to attract and retain teachers and meet the increasing demands of a growing number of students. To address these widespread issues, the government is considering a Teachers Bill, currently under discussion at the ongoing session of the National Assembly. This proposed legislation aims to enhance the appeal of teaching positions through increased salaries, improved benefits, and stronger support systems, particularly in challenging environments. Higher payment The draft Law on Teachers proposes a significant elevation of teachers' salaries to the highest level within the public service pay scale, explains Vu Minh uc, Director of the Department of Teachers and Educational Management at the Ministry of Education and Training. This proposal not only aims to raise the base salary but also to enhance allowances for preschool educators and teachers working in challenging environments such as ethnic minority regions, mountainous areas, coastal zones, and islands, as well as those employed at specialised institutions or in inclusive education settings. Moreover, the legislation introduces new retirement policies tailored specifically for the teaching profession. For instance, it allows preschool teachers the option of early retirement, whereas teachers with academic titles such as professor or associate professor, or those holding doctoral degrees in specialised fields, may choose to extend their careers, contingent on institutional needs and their personal health. Article 1 of the draft outlines comprehensive policies covering teachers' rights and duties, recruitment processes, salary structures, international cooperation, recognition, and disciplinary measures. Article 6, Clause 5 emphasises a state commitment to prioritising teacher compensation. Chapter V, which includes Articles 27 to 31, focuses on salary and benefits, specifying that public school teachers will receive the highest salaries within the public service pay scale, in addition to professional allowances based on the nature of their work and location. Enhanced allowances are also proposed for preschool teachers, educators in remote areas, teachers at specialised institutions, those involved in inclusive education, and teachers from ethnic minority backgrounds. Newly hired teachers will receive an immediate salary increment upon joining the public pay scale. Our surveys show that 61 per cent of teachers who leave the profession are under 35, often due to low income that fails to cover basic needs. Younger teachers, facing financial and family responsibilities, require support to remain in the field, uc says. For teachers with less than five years of experience, salaries are very low, so this proposal encourages young people to enter and stay in the teaching profession, he says. Better supporting policies Teacher support policies introduced in Article 28 include additional support measures, such as allowances based on working conditions and location, opportunities for training and professional development, regular health checks, and mobility allowances for teachers involved in literacy and general education or teaching at multiple sites. Teachers facing challenges in areas such as ethnic minority regions and remote islands, and those in specialised or inclusive education, will have access to collective housing, government rental options, and travel allowances for annual leave and family visits. Local authorities and educational institutions are encouraged to develop further support initiatives based on their financial capacity. Article 29 outlines attraction policies aimed at recruiting highly qualified individuals, outstanding graduates, young scientists, and those with special skills, focusing particularly on teachers in difficult areas, including ethnic minority regions and coastal zones. These incentives provide allowances and support for essential housing or rentals, especially in rural areas. Retirement policies for teachers detailed in Article 30 adhere to the Labour Code unless otherwise stated. Clause 2 permits preschool teachers to retire up to five years earlier without a reduction in pension benefits, while Clause 31 provides an extended retirement option for public school teachers with titles such as professor or associate professor, or those with doctorates, based on the institutions needs and the teacher's health and willingness. Extension periods are capped at specific durations depending on qualifications, although allowances or leadership roles are excluded. According to Professor Nguyen Mau Banh, president of the Viet Nam Veteran Teachers Association, raising teachers salaries to the highest public service level would be a significant achievement, potentially encouraging teachers to remain dedicated to their profession with pride. National Assembly delegate Tran Quoc Tuan from Tra Vinh emphasises the importance of prioritising teacher salaries to reflect educations role as a top national priority, crucial for attracting and retaining talented educators to support Viet Nams sustainable educational development. Vu Minh uc, Director of the Department of Teachers and Educational Management at the Ministry of Education and Training, emphasises that the new policies aim to enrich teachers' lives beyond mere salary enhancements. "This initiative seeks to elevate the stature of teachers, ensuring they are recognised and respected by society, and their professional dignity is safeguarded. Additionally, it promises improved working conditions, greater learning opportunities, and the autonomy to innovate and engage creatively in their roles," uc explains. The proposed draft offers robust legal tools aimed at streamlining the recruitment process, optimising resource utilisation, and attracting talent to the teaching profession. It addresses critical bottlenecks and fosters a more conducive environment for teacher retention and development, he says. A significant aspect of the draft is the promotion of equality in development opportunities between public and non-public school teachers. For the first time, non-public educators are to be formally recognised under the same category as public school teachers, moving away from being viewed merely as contract workers. This recognition is pivotal in enhancing their professional status and ensuring equitable treatment across the education sector. Currently, 1.6 million teachers work across all educational levels and regionsfrom preschools to universities, and urban centres to remote islands and mountainous areas. If passed, the draft Law on Teachers would establish a consistent and effective legal framework to support the growth of both the teaching workforce and the education sector. Party chiefs view During recent discussions, the General Secretary of the ruling party, To Lam, has stressed that the bill must honour and support teachers, particularly those working in demanding environments. He noted that the current draft had not fully addressed the unique challenges faced by teachers in remote and disadvantaged areas, including the difficult and special conditions in prison schools and remote mountainous regions. Based on his visits to such areas, the Party chief shared his observations of the harsh realities teachers and students face. Many students travel 20-30km daily to attend school, while teachers often lack adequate accommodation. How can we expect these teachers and students to sustain this effort without proper support? he asked, urging the National Assembly to consider tailored solutions for these regions. VNS Empowering education sector recruitment to address teacher shortages The draft Teachers Law also introduces significant reforms aimed at streamlining the recruitment process, a critical step toward resolving the acute teacher shortages plaguing various regions. This strategic shift in policy could revolutionise the way educators are employed, particularly in underserved areas, ensuring that all educational institutions, regardless of location, have access to the qualified teaching staff they require. Under this proposal, the Ministry of Education and Training, in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs, will lead strategies, planning, and teacher staffing quotas. This autonomy will include setting recruitment criteria, defining practical teaching requirements, managing the allocation of teachers in public schools according to approved quotas, and overseeing recruitment, evaluation, and appointments at both national and local school levels. Thieu Van Nam, deputy director of the Department of Education and Training in Kien Giang Province, asserts that granting autonomy in recruitment will markedly improve local employment efforts, particularly in the province. Under the current regulations of the Ministry of Home Affairs, teachers must apply directly to individual schools, often leading to imbalances where some schools receive an excess of applicants for single positions while others with multiple vacancies attract few, if any, candidates. In Kien Giang, many teachers opt for positions in urban areas like Rach Gia City, leaving educational institutions on the islands struggling to find adequate teaching staff. The acute shortage of preschool teachers in Kien Giang highlights the necessity for clear technical guidelines to streamline the recruitment process at the local level. Echoing Nam's sentiments, Nguyen Thuy Ha, director of the ong Thap Department of Education and Training, supports the move towards recruitment autonomy, noting that it will allow for better alignment with individual school needs and enhance accountability. She calls for comprehensive guidelines on recruitment conditions, procedures, priority groups, exam content, and the employment of foreign teachers to help schools engage specialised talent. Ha also promotes more efficient recruitment processes that balance quality with expediency by requiring practical teaching experience and adherence to professional standards. For areas with limited applicants, she suggests direct recruitment could be an alternative, bypassing traditional exams if candidates meet the necessary qualifications. Pham ang Khoa, head of the Education and Training Office of District 3, HCM City, fully supports the policy of granting the education sector greater autonomy in teacher recruitment. "I believe this is both a necessary and well-considered policy that enables the education and training sector to strengthen and develop its teaching workforce in a more scientific and efficient manner, while also attracting and retaining talented teachers to serve the cause of education," Khoa says. "With the authority to recruit autonomously, the education sector can proactively implement policies to attract and retain highly skilled, talented individuals and outstanding graduates, especially in fields where recruitment is challenging, such as music, art, IT, and technology," he says. VNS A NANG The central city of a Nang has called for investment in an urban railway route connecting a Nang International Airport and the tourism beach of My Khe. The 14.9km route is part of the Master Plan 2021-30, with a vision 2050. The citys Investment and Promotion Agency (IPA) said the route has been designed as one of eight key urban railway traffic systems including Light Rail Transit (LRT), Mass Rapid Transport (MRT) with Public-Private Partnership investment in the approved 2045-50 plan. It said the route would include 19 stops and a depot to create a smooth traffic flow from the airport through Tran Thi Ly Bridge to the most visited My Khe beach in Son Tra peninsula. The city, in cooperation with neighbouring Quang Nam Province, also proposed a plan on investment in a LRT and a MRT system connecting the world heritage city of Hoi An and a Nang to serve future traffic and tourism growth. The city had offered investment of key railway systems from partners in Singapore and South Korea including metros, tramways, underground and sky trains. Local commuters make 2.1 million journeys each day, of which 80 per cent are via motorbike, according to the city's transport department. a Nang has been investing much in urban development to make it the largest city in the central region and a green and smart city by 2025. VNS A NANG The central city of a Nang and Sakai City, Japan, agreed to boost cooperation in building a carbon-neutral model, investment, trade, tourism and launching a direct air route for future development. The proposal was discussed during a working session between a Nang Citys Peoples Committee and the authority of Sakai City, in Japan. The two also plan to implement the Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) a mechanism that Japan contributes to the reduction and absorption of greenhouse gas emissions globally projects for both sides benefit in the framework of cooperation in the coming years. Deputy Chairman of a Nang City Le Quang Nam urged a direct flight establishment between Sakai and a Nang to create favourable conditions for increasing demands of investment, trade and tourism from Japan. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the neutral city project, approved by the Ministry of Environment, Government of Japan, was also signed between a Nang Citys natural resources department and the Sakai City Environment Bureau as part of the cooperation programme of the two cities. The project will be implemented in 2025-28. In the other working session in Yokohama City, a Nang also called for experience sharing in sustainable development, seaport construction and underground traffic projects from the Japanese port authorities. Earlier, Yokohama and Sakai supported a Nang in building a carbon-neutral model at a Nang Port and industrial parks in green industries transformation. a Nang City is a beneficiary of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-funded energy saving for the citys resident project till 2025. Sakai and a Nang set up cooperation in 2009, and the two sides promoted friendship ties in 2019. a Nang has inked friendship and cooperation deals with Kisarazu, Kawasaki, Sakai and Yokohama, and the city has hosted the annual Viet Nam-Japan Cultural Exchange Day since 2014. Japanese investors poured US$1.04 billion into 228 projects in a Nang. Cities in Japan including Yokohama, Maebashi, Chiba, Fukuoka, Shizuoka and Nagasaki; more than 120 businesses and 13 universities from Japan had inked agreements on manpower recruitment and internship agreements with a Nang Citys ong A University. VNS By Le Huong Smart, loyal and friendly to people these are common characteristics of dogs as pets. Yet for the dogs chosen to serve in the army, they are also courageous. These four-legged heroes accompany military soldiers on various duties. Whether rescuing people during natural disasters, patrolling borders, or chasing criminals, they help soldiers fulfil their missions. Border Guard School 24 has been one of the key institutions in the country for training war dogs. One of their recent duties involved searching for missing people in flood-swept Lang Nu Village in Lao Cai Province after Typhoon Yagi. All of the tracker dogs we brought along were excellent, Major oan Van Hoan told Viet Nam News. When we identified a suspicious area, we would use different dogs to double-check the site. When they showed the same results, we reported to senior officers to decide on further action. Hoan said the dogs work well on stable land. They, however, were hindered in muddy areas. They got stuck in the mud and couldnt move or sniff at the places we needed. So, before bringing the dogs in, we explored the area first and chose a suitable time to ensure safety, he said. The dogs helped soldiers locate dozens of missing people in Lang Nu Village. Sadly, most were found dead in the mud. When we arrived, we felt sorrow and pain, oan said. Locals had lost all their property and even family members. They surrounded us, longing for news of their loved ones, hoping we could find them soon. Our dogs were especially important because of their sense of smell. Only with that capability could we decide where to dig and search for people in the mud, he said. Hoan and his dog had also joined a special mission to search for people in collapsed buildings after the earthquake in Turkey in February last year. There, they faced the risk of further quakes and collapsing debris. We had to put special socks on our dogs legs to help them move through the wreckage, he added. The dogs undergo daily training over many years to act as professional trackers in real-life situations. Said Lieutenant Phung Tien oan: The most important thing is the dogs obedience. We teach them to climb ladders and jump over hard obstacles. Then, theyre trained in more specialised skills. "For example, in war dog units, we have protection and chasing units. Dogs with strong gnawing ability join the protection unit, while those with a strong sense of smell join the chasing unit. We repeat simple lessons until the dogs understand their roles. The training time for each dog depends on its response to lessons rather than a fixed schedule. Each trainer may work with up to two dogs at a time, and its crucial that trainers and dogs develop a close bond. When we train them, we should encourage them, not force them, oan said. The key is that trainers and dogs remain close at all times. This helps the dogs trust their trainers. Hoan emphasised that dogs never leave loyal owners. They remain devoted to us, loving us as we love them. We follow professional training plans strictly, he said. The dogs loyalty to their trainers reflects their character, while the trainers remain deeply committed to their duties to the country. As a soldier, I go wherever the Motherland needs me, Hoan said. On international missions, I do everything for my homeland and my people. We consider our international friends relatives our own and spare no effort to fulfil our tasks. Hoan loves his work and hopes to continue until he retires. If one truly loves this job, they can focus on it and find the most effective training methods, oan added. These dogs, serving in the armed forces, are indeed humans friends and invaluable assistants in special missions true four-legged heroes. VNS By An Phuong In Vietnamese culture, as in many others, people are often taught from a young age that humility is a virtue. The phrase khiem ton, that tha, dung cam (modesty, honesty, courage) resonates widely. Yet, when it comes to self-promotion, or khoe in Vietnamese, theres often an inner hesitation. Many feel uncomfortable sharing their accomplishments, dismissing praise with a simple its nothing. But is it truly wrong to promote oneself? In reality, expressing our achievements can be a powerful tool for personal growth and professional advancement, especially in todays competitive environment. "Self-promotion is important, yet it's often misunderstood," says my friend Quang ang, 27, highlighting how people frequently mistake it for boastfulness. "As we see the rise of online communities centred around 'flexing' or showcasing achievements, it's evident that people have a genuine desire to share their successes and seek validation for their efforts," he said a point I couldnt help but agree with. "These spaces provide a sense of belonging and recognitionsomething many are seeking in a society that increasingly values individual achievement and personal branding," he added. As a content creator myself, I firmly believe that self-promotion can open doors to new opportunities. By effectively sharing our skills, achievements, and unique perspectives, we increase our visibility in ways that enhance credibility and encourage others to connect or collaborate. It is crucial to redefine the meaning of khoe, Anh Tuyet, 28, said. Words acquire meaning over time, evolving to reflect changing values and perspectives. The term khoe in the Vietnamese dictionary, edited by Hoang Phe, is defined as 'deliberately revealing ones strengths or beauty, often through words'. Though originally neutral, khoe has unfortunately gained negative connotations, associated with vanity or bragging. But if we hesitate to khoe, then when do we get to share our accomplishments? Self-promotion, when done thoughtfully, is about building connections and communicating effectively, Tuyet said. For those of us who avoid self-promotion, there can be unintended consequences, particularly when it comes to career opportunities. In job interviews, for instance, failing to confidently present our successes can put us at a disadvantage. If we dont practise articulating our strengths, we risk diminishing our own self-confidence over time. This can lead to unnecessary self-doubt, especially when standing next to someone who is comfortable sharing their strengths, Tuyet explained. My friend Hoang Hiep, 35, an expert in communication, emphasised the importance of nonverbal cues in effective self-promotion. "Over 90 per cent of our communication is nonverbal, which highlights the importance of not only choosing the right words but also paying attention to how theyre conveyed. In a professional setting, this can make a significant impact on the impression we create, he said. Ive found this to be true in my own content creation. I can talk endlessly about positivity, but if my body language or facial expressions dont match that message, my audience may find it hard to believe. Brands consider this alignment toothey want influencers whose energy and vibe truly reflect their message. We all agreed that theres no one-size-fits-all formula for self-promotion. However, there are key strategies that can make khoe both effective and respectful. ang emphasised the importance of clarity and directness in communication. For example, imagine two employees proposing a new work platform to their manager. The first employee presents their ideas in a roundabout way, while the second clearly explains how the new platform saves time, aligns with team goals, and offers a free trial period. The second approach is likely to be more persuasive because it is clear, specific, and relevant to the audiences needs, he said. Meanwhile, Tuyet suggested that we should know our audience. Effective self-promotion means understanding our audience's interests and tailoring our approach. When you know your listeners' needs, you can present your strengths as solutions rather than self-praise, she added. Hiep said that we all should feel empowered, not ashamed, to showcase our achievements. Everyone deserves to talk about their strengths and the good theyve donelets celebrate that! If we dont khoe, we may miss out on opportunities that those who do are likely to seize. The key lies in promoting oneself genuinely and gracefully, with the substance that backs up the message, he said. For those who feel unhappy, uncomfortable, or even threatened by someone else's boasting, its important to pause and reflect. Ask yourself questions like: Does what they just showcased highlight something you feel you lack? Or is their accomplishment something you could achieve, yet youre not receiving recognition for your similar successes? If the answer is yes, this is the moment to focus on self-improvement. Only when we feel confident in ourselves can we comfortably appreciate others' achievements, Hiep said. Lets learn to celebrate everyones accomplishmentsboth those who promote themselves and those who listen. The more pressure we feel, the more we need to approach the situation with a rational mindset, he added. Embracing self-promotion can foster a positive atmosphere where everyone can feel proud of their career journey, we all agreed. VNS This ambitious, whole-of-government initiative recognises labour productivity as a top priority for Vietnam, and lays out a broad, comprehensive agenda of reforms involving many ministries. Gulmira Asanbaeva, project manager Productivity Ecosystems for Decent Work Programme However, the rate of growth of labour productivity was 3.5 per cent in 2023, which is lower than the target set in the national strategies. This happened for a variety of reasons, but mostly due to a lack of tangible incentives for firms and workers to invest in boosting labour productivity. Essentially, there is a need for an ecosystems approach in order to achieve the goal in a strategic and systemic way. The International Labour Organization (ILO), the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs, and the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation jointly launched the Productivity Ecosystems for Decent Work Programme in 2022 to address constraints to productivity growth and decent job creation, ensuring through social dialogue that gains are equally distributed. Rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach or intervening at a single level, the programme addresses productivity and decent work deficits across policy, sector and enterprise levels for win-win solutions that improve productivity and that ensure that gains are distributed equitably through social dialogue. For this purpose, the programme selected a slice of the local productivity ecosystem, meaning a sector and associated segment of the overall ecosystem in which the potential for productivity growth and decent job creation are aligned with feasibility to intervene. For the initiative in Vietnam, the target sectors are wood processing and machinery. The figure includes the macro-level (supporting environment, institutions, infrastructure, policies, and social conditions), the sectoral level (access to markets, business linkages, and sectoral supply chains), and enterprise level (innovation capabilities, input quality, and regulations at firm or market level). The ecosystems approach emphasises that productivity is not just a sectoral policy, but an overarching national goal that needs to be addressed through integrated policies. Vietnam needs to be ready to accept new productivity-boosting factors brought about by Industry 4.0, the rise of AI, new business models, and new financial instruments. Vietnam is predominantly strong in midstream supply chain operations, but it is not yet a top-of-mind destination for upstream activities such as subcomponent design and production, or downstream activities such as sales and distribution. The uneven manufacturing skills across different stages underline the concern of remaining an assembly platform, and there is still a demanding way up the global value chain. For Vietnam to move up the global value chain, the focus must be more on educating its workforce. This will enable foreign companies to relocate more upstream manufacturing activities such as the production of subcomponents to Vietnam, making the country less reliant on imports of such components from other countries, for example China. Therefore, the driver of future productivity growth in Vietnam is an educated workforce, or its human capital. Human resources are the most important aspect in a successful economic transformation to new growth drivers, as well as labour productivity in general. Other key components, such as capital and technology, can be imported or manufactured domestically, and economic, industrial, and other policies can be implemented to foster a favourable economic climate. However, it takes time to build the correct personnel. This needs long-term investments, and even when these investments in workforce upskilling are undertaken, there are considerable time lags before these efforts pay off in the form of a more qualified and productive workforce. Full and equal access to productive employment is crucial for making a rapidly changing economy inclusive. However, skills requirements of new knowledge-based economy will be rapidly changing. Therefore, just relying on young people in education now is not sufficient, and there is a need for urgently re-training the existing workforce and enhancing life-long learning to have skills constantly upgraded throughout the working life. Active labour market policies are the main policy instrument for enabling workers to move from dead-end jobs to new and better ones. We published a study on new drivers of productivity growth in Vietnam in 2023 initiating national dialogues around enhancing labour productivity. The Productivity Ecosystems for Decent Work Programme in Vietnam has worked on the engagement of a diverse range of stakeholders since 2023 with the aim of running integrated approaches at all three layers of interventions mentioned previously, and offering evidence-based advice for effective policymaking for government and social partners in Vietnam. It has also delivered technical advisory support through studies on evidence-based policy options to governmental partners on national productivity frameworks, the employment law revision, development of methodology for productivity measurement, including labour productivity and total factor productivity in cooperation with the General Statistics Office. Capacity building support in the productivity data measurement was delivered in 2024 based on the new productivity measurement and analysis guide, and the productivity report is expected to be produced in early 2025. Over 260 small- and medium-sized enterprises in the two target sectors of wood processing and machinery benefitted from support of the project. Over 15 stakeholder institutions are engaged, and multiple partnerships with governmental ministries, business associations, and market-led business serviced providers were built. These covered five priority intervention areas: developing and implementing market-based middle manager capacity building schemes on productivity skills (with special access for women) for manufacturing firms; promoting digitalisation and development for effective small business data management and resource planning; promoting circularity and decarbonisation; supporting business capacity to facilitate more sectoral dialogue; and promoting decent work in the aforementioned two target sectors of wood processing and machinery. At last weeks workshop on study results regarding accelerating sustainable development in Vietnam, Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc noted that, while Vietnam has made some progress, the path to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) remains challenging, especially in terms of mobilising financial resources. Foot must remain on pedal to achieve SDGs, photo: freepik.com Ngoc pointed out that official development assistance has significantly declined since Vietnam attained lower middle-income status, a development that has made sustainable funding more complex. While foreign investment is rising, its contribution to sustainable development is still unclear. The local private sector also has yet to fulfill its expected role as a driver of economic growth and sustainability. To accelerate SDG implementation, narrowing the financial gap and prioritising key transformative areas are crucial, she said. The workshop introduced a macroeconomic model designed to support Vietnams long-term SDG strategy. Unlike short-term forecasting, the model provides a foundation for analysing long-term policy scenarios. Short-term GDP growth is driven by aggregate demand consumption, investment, and net exports while the potential output depends on factors such as labour force, capital stock, energy use and efficiency, productivity growth, and climate impacts. Economist Kongchheng Poch from the UN Resident Coordinators office presented three scenarios to help accelerate Vietnams SDG progress: green growth, poverty and inequality reduction, and innovation-driven growth. In the first scenario, which aims to achieve net-zero commitments and SDG 7 on energy access, the government could prioritise renewable energy investment and energy efficiency measures while implementing tools to limit CO2 emissions. Policies in this scenario include increasing investments in renewables and possibly introducing a carbon tax, Poch said. According to Poch, the government plans to invest approximately $13.5 billion per year until 2030 in renewable energy, increasing to $23 billion annually from 2031 to 2050. This substantial investment package, equivalent to around 7 per cent of 2020 GDP, could lead to significant reductions in pollution and carbon emissions, boosting productivity and yielding positive economic results in the long term. However, if financed solely by the government, the fiscal burden would be substantial. Poch also highlighted that introducing a carbon tax could be an effective alternative. Beginning at $25 per tonne of carbon in 2023 and rising to $90 by 2040, this tax could reduce fossil energy consumption by making it more expensive, encouraging a shift towards renewables. Increasing fossil energy prices will lower energy use and emissions. The impact on GDP may be slightly negative due to higher production costs, but the tax revenue could substantially reduce public debt if the funds are not redirected to social spending, Poch said. The second scenario prioritises poverty and inequality reduction, aligned with SDGs 1, 4, and 10. This scenario envisions a significant increase in social spending through national target programmes. The climate impact is positive, given that infrastructure investments are expected to boost energy efficiency and lower emissions. Economic growth would benefit from improved productivity, while poverty reduction is facilitated through increased social spending, Poch stated. Education, as a key driver of economic and social progress, requires higher spending levels sustained through 2030, either financed through additional debt or budget reallocation. Investing in education yields positive short-term GDP and employment effects and significant social benefits over time. However, unless other investments are reallocated, the fiscal burden would increase, he added. The third scenario targets innovation-driven growth to support SDG 8, which promotes sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth. The focus here is on transforming Vietnams growth model by investing in ICT infrastructure, primarily financed by the private sector (95 per cent of the required funds). Given the relatively modest size of this investment, the environmental impact would be negligible, while the fiscal effect is positive, as private capital largely funds the development. Inclusive fiscal policies are seen as essential for advancing SDGs, enabling equitable resource distribution and reducing inequality. Economists stressed that effective public debt management with a long-term perspective is necessary to balance development needs and fiscal health. Lin Zhuo, an economic affairs officer with the Economic and Social Commission for Asia-Pacific, advocated a shift in thinking regarding public debt and its role in sustainable development. Traditionally, high public debt is viewed as a threat to economic stability and growth, with current debt sustainability assessments often promoting fiscal tightening, limiting government funds for SDG investment. We need a fresh perspective. Public debt, if managed prudently over the long term, can be a powerful development tool. Each countrys optimal debt level should reflect its SDG progress and ambitions rather than being constrained by short-term sustainability metrics, Zhuo said. To improve long-term financing, Zhuo recommended enhancing productivity to drive economic growth and increase government revenue without raising taxes. According to a report on implementation of the socioeconomic development plan for 2024 presented by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh at the governments regular meeting in late October, at present, Vietnam is still facing certain limitations as the quality of human resources has not met requirements, especially in high-tech industries and sectors serving the digital and green economy. Vietnam needs to develop its human resources across several technical sectors, photo Le Toan Meanwhile, according to the Renewable Energy and Jobs: Annual Review 2024 report released by the International Renewable Energy Agency in early October, Vietnam ranked among the top 10 countries with dynamic renewable energy labour markets, with more than half of ASEANs new jobs in this sector concentrated here. However, the report noted that Vietnams current training programmes are not meeting demand, leading to a shortage of engineers for specialised roles. Through Vietnams educational cooperation activities, Vietnamese personnel now have opportunities to enhance their capabilities in fields related to green development and technology. At the Education New Zealand Fair 2024, organised by Education New Zealand (ENZ) in collaboration with its embassy and Consulate General on October 20, the country reaffirmed its commitment to a bilateral education partnership with Vietnam and expressed eagerness to welcome Vietnamese students. New Zealand has attracted many Vietnamese students from primary and secondary to university levels. This is due to our focus on developing skills that future workers need. Some Vietnamese alumni have returned and applied their acquired knowledge to build sustainable businesses or hold high positions in government, said Ben Burrowes, acting general manager for International at ENZ. According to Burrowes, popular fields among Vietnamese students include business administration, data analytics, healthcare, AI, and sustainable development. Notably, emerging fields such as 3D animation, gaming, AI, and sustainability-related programmes have witnessed a significant increase in student enrolment. The University of Waikato stands out with its Bachelors in Climate Change, the worlds first programme in this field. Students acquire knowledge and participate in internships with businesses committed to sustainable development, he added. Within the strategic partnership framework, New Zealand has collaborated with Vietnam to develop workers through Manaaki scholarships. These are development scholarships funded by the New Zealand government, aimed at training Vietnamese students in fields identified as needed by both countries, such as digitalisation and sustainable development. The scholarship requires students to return to Vietnam after graduation to contribute to the economy. Additionally, New Zealand encourages its students to explore Vietnamese culture and markets through the prime ministers Scholarship for Asia, supporting New Zealand students studying or interning in Vietnam. Elsewhere, Nguyen Nhu Hoang, UK and Australia education counsellor at IDP Education, told VIR, In recent years, Vietnamese students have shown increasing interest in fields related to sustainable development, following global trends in environmental protection and green economy. Popular fields include environmental science, natural resources management, renewable energy, sustainable urban planning, the green economy, and sustainable agriculture, Hoang shared. These fields not only meet green human resource needs in developed countries but also open career opportunities in international organisations and non-governmental organisations, aligning with modern economic transformation and environmental protection trends, Hoang said. Ho Minh Duc, US and Canada education counsellor at the same institution, also said, Study fields related to sustainable development are attracting Vietnamese students across diverse areas, matching each countrys educational characteristics and workforce needs. Besides specialisations related to green transformation, digital transformation and high-tech specialisations are also chosen by Vietnamese students studying abroad. In the US, Vietnamese students are interested in computer science along with minors such as cybersecurity and AI. Additionally, fields like finance and banking, business analytics, business administration, healthcare, and applied maths are also prioritised choices. Meanwhile, in Canada, STEM fields dominate student choices from Vietnam, along with logistics and supply chain management, due to high demand. Parallel to expanding educational opportunities in other countries, Vietnam has also set forth specific objectives for developing and enhancing human resource quality in fields related to digital and green transformation. In September, the Ministry of Education and Training held a workshop to gather feedback on a draft project for the development of human resources in the semiconductor industry by 2030, with a vision to 2050, setting the goal of having over 80 per cent of university-level STEM training programmes achieve graduation, and relevant employment rates exceeding 80 per cent. By 2030, Vietnam wishes to train at least 50,000 workers with university degrees or higher for the semiconductor industry. Seminar promotes domestic role in developing semiconductor workforce The National Innovation Centre (NIC) in collaboration with Cadence Corporation, FPT, and Tresemi held a seminar on August 9 on promoting the role of Vietnamese enterprises in developing the semiconductor industry's human resources. HR Asia Awards 2024 honour new-generation workforce On August 8, industry publication HR Asia announced the Vietnamese winners of its prestigious HR Asia Best Companies to Work for in 2024. The government announced at a recent National Assembly (NA) session that it would increase investments in education and training quality in the next few months. New programmes will be launched to drive human resources development, especially in high-quality personnel for priority and emerging sectors, including semiconductors, AI, and cloud computing, a government report submitted to the NA stated. Investments will also go towards expanding science, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Under this plan, the government will synchronously implement mechanisms, policies, and solutions for related development, particularly in high-tech sectors. High-tech personnel to drive competition, photo: freepik.com The government has committed to delivering breakthrough reforms, focusing on modernising vocational education, increasing staff quality, and enhancing vocational training. This will create the skilled labour necessary for a rapidly evolving market and meet the demands of Vietnams industrialisation. In parallel, the government is also working to improve laws on science, technology, and innovation to meet new socioeconomic requirements. The NA will explore and draft amendments to four key laws covering science and technology, technical standards and regulations, product and commodity quality, and atomic energy. To attract and effectively use investments in sci-tech, the government plans to encourage enterprises to establish and expand sci-tech development funds. Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung said, These funds will support research, innovation, and technological advancement, particularly through partnerships with universities and research institutions, including joint research labs and technology incubation projects. He noted that public-private partnerships in sci-tech fields are also strongly encouraged. The governments large focus on further improving personnel quality as a foundation for economic growth is expected to boost high-tech investment and the nations overall competitiveness. With over 38 million unskilled labourers, according to the Ministry of Labour, Invalids, and Social Affairs, Vietnam faces a significant skills gap. This shortage is critical as multinational corporations such as Apple, Dell, Foxconn, Pegatron, Nike, and Adidas increasingly shift their supply chains to Vietnam, recognising it as a promising investment destination. However, meeting these companies demands for high-quality workers remains one of the most pressing challenges, Minister Dung said. At present, collaboration between training institutions and businesses is inconsistent. The World Bank has noted that without substantial investments in tertiary education, Vietnam will struggle to supply skilled technical workers in sufficient numbers. A recent World Bank report on Vietnams startup ecosystem highlighted this challenge, noting a gap between educational institutions perceptions and employer needs. While 80 per cent of training institutions believe their graduates are prepared for entry-level positions, fewer than 40 per cent of employers agree, especially regarding positions requiring higher-level skills, the report stated, referencing Vietnams low rank of 127th out of 140 countries in the 2021 Global Competitiveness Index for industry-relevant skills among university graduates. Industry feedback to the World Bank indicated that while universities produce engineering and programming talent, many graduates lack the hands-on experience needed for emerging tech fields such as biotechnology, nanotechnology, and AI. Last year, the Vietnamese government adopted key productivity frameworks, focusing on modernising the labour market and accelerating productivity growth to 6.5 per cent annually. The national programme on increasing labour productivity towards 2030 also sets a comprehensive reform agenda across ministries, prioritising productivity as a national goal. Despite these goals, labour productivity growth was only 3.5 per cent in 2023, falling short of national targets. A lack of incentives for businesses and workers to invest in productivity has contributed to this shortfall, highlighting the need for an ecosystems approach. The International Labour Organization noted that Vietnam must be ready to embrace productivity-boosting factors like Industry 4.0, AI, new business models, and innovative financial instruments. Ramla Khalidi, resident representative United Nations Development Programme in Vietnam Vietnamese firms have not yet succeeded in penetrating the supply chains of multinational enterprises operating in the country. Recent data shows that the import intensity of exports meaning the share of imported goods and services in exports is significantly higher in Vietnam (51 per cent) than in Malaysia and Thailand (35 per cent), India (20 per cent), and Indonesia (15 per cent). Furthermore, the import intensity of Vietnamese exports has steadily risen since 2000, while remaining relatively stable or even declining in comparison countries. This suggests that the anticipated technological spillovers and demand linkages between foreign and domestic firms have yet to materialise, leaving Vietnamese manufacturing largely confined to low value-added, labour-intensive operations. These trends indicate that Vietnam cannot rely solely on labour-intensive activities indefinitely. Similar to the transitions seen in Japan, South Korea, and China, Vietnam will need to develop higher value-added segments in both industry and services. Like other successful East Asian economies, developing Vietnams national technological capabilities is crucial. However, public spending on higher education and research in Vietnam remains low. Although spending is not a perfect measure of capacity, Vietnams low levels of research output remain a concern. Nguyen Hoang Bao Tran, national Assembly deputy Binh Duong province In order for businesses and workers to have stable incomes, and to be able to adapt to rapid changes, I have three recommendations. Firstly, it is necessary to consider specific policies in vocational training, linked to the reality of labour quality, as well as the specific development of each locality. This will lay a foundation for the goal of training high-quality, high-tech human resources for production, business, services, and key sectors. Secondly, it is necessary to invest in modern equipment and machinery for teaching in vocational schools, and also to limit waste in training facilities. Thirdly, when it comes to unemployed workers, they just want to quickly find a new job to ensure their livelihoods. The current level of vocational training support funding is VND1.5 million ($62) per month and is valid for six months, which is too low compared to the training needs and long study time. The unemployed cannot ensure the financial capacity to participate in vocational training, so it is necessary to increase the level of support. Australia and Vietnam join forces to cultivate quality workforce for net-zero future Vietnam and Australia view the green economy as a vital area for cooperation, with Australias ambition to lead in renewable energy aligning with Vietnams focus on wind and solar development. High-quality workforce embedded in Ninh Thuan's renewable energy development Thanks to international cooperation and close collaboration with businesses, the quality of workforce training for the renewable energy sector is steadily improving, paving the way for Ninh Thuan to become a new renewable energy hub. Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee in late October identified areas, covering the districts of Binh Chanh, Nha Be, Hoc Mon, Cu Chi, and Can Gio, to transfer land use rights that already have technical infrastructure for organisations and individuals to build houses. The reason for the rule changes in some districts is to help ensure a synchronous development process, photo Le Toan Accordingly, investors of real estate projects and housing construction projects throughout Ho Chi Minh City are not allowed to transfer land use rights with technical infrastructure in projects to who build houses. Project owners must build complete houses for sale instead of buying land, dividing plots, and selling land as before. The decision is expected to have significance in creating healthy markets and ensuring synchronous project investment and construction. Dinh Minh Tuan, director of Batdongsan.com.vn in the southern region, said that the supply of subdivided land in Ho Chi Minh City was already limited, and the new regulations would further reduce supply and cause prices to rise. The increase is forecast to be about 15-20 per cent, Tuan predicted. When the price level of land and residential properties is pushed up, along with the fact that Ho Chi Minh City has just applied a new land price framework, it will have a double impact on the market, affecting the cost of site clearance for infrastructure public investment projects, Tuan said. The new regulation may not be practical when the market has just gone through a difficult period, he added. Ho Chi Minh City can execute this ban in some highly urbanised areas in central business districts. In remote and sparsely populated areas, it should not be implemented immediately, Tuan said. Sharing concerns about price increases, Vo Hong Thang, deputy general director of DKRA Group, said that the current southern land market had low liquidity, so unlikely to see so-called land fever. Regulations banning the division of plots for sale throughout the city aim to unify state management of housing and strengthen the responsibility of investors of projects, ensuring investment in synchronous construction of technical infrastructure and social infrastructure, Thang said. Moreover, the new ban will also help avoid people building without permission or act against other architectural management regulations. The Department of Construction believes that it is necessary to ban subdivision and sale of plots throughout the entire area. Hoang Minh, a private real estate consultant in the Thu Duc area, said banning land subdivision helped the city solve many shortcomings, including avoiding haphazard construction and shredding planning. Subdivided land is mainly for investors to buy and resell for making profit and very few real buyers. Therefore, subdivided land is not used regularly, and can be left unused for long term and causing waste of resources, Minh said. However, the Ho Chi Minh City Real Estate Association (HoREA) has submitted a document requesting the Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee to consider and amend the recent decision. According to the HoREA, the five districts in question are rural areas where demand for buying, selling, and transferring land to build houses is still very high. Prohibiting the division of plots to sell plots for individuals to build their own houses at this time is inconsistent with current practice and regulations, said chairman Le Hoang Chau. The HoREA proposes to amend some of the regulations, detailing the identification of areas where land use rights can be transferred with technical infrastructure so that people can build their own houses in communes in foreign districts into the city. HCM City approves 9 billion-USD Can Gio coastal urban development project The Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee has approved the planning for the Can Gio coastal urban area, which covers an area of 2,870 hectares and is projected to attract nearly 9 billion USD in private investment. Networking events for real estate investors held in Ho Chi Minh City Several international real estate investment and networking events were held in Ho Chi Minh City from October 7-11. Metro Line 1 begins trial runs at full capacity The first metro line in Ho Chi Minh City, linking Ben Thanh Market in District 1 to Suoi Tien in Thu Duc, is conducting trial runs at full capacity from November 11 to 17. The Ministry of Constructions October report highlighted that legality, liquidity, and land use fees are the primary considerations for businesses selecting land investments. Recent market trends show that real estate firms are increasingly focused on developing land in preparation for the sectors recovery. There is a renewed push to increase the size of land portfolios, photo Le Toan Accordingly, companies are carefully formulating their plans to secure legally compliant, fully paid land projects that can be operational as soon as land rights are granted, the report said. With limited supply, access to land resources has become not only a strategic objective for major corporations but also a critical lifeline for many real estate firms. To secure new land resources, businesses are employing a variety of approaches. In the Mekong Delta province of Long An, Truong Son Real Estate Company and Him Lam Company formed a joint venture in September to develop a residential project in Duc Hoa district spanning over 215 hectares, with funding of $467 million. If approved, the project, which seeks to begin in 2026, will offer nearly 3,000 units, including town houses, villas, and social housing. Meanwhile, Malaysian real estate giant SkyWorld has been actively pursuing new land opportunities in Vietnam. In the same month, SkyWorld Development Vietnam, acquired all 1.7 million shares of Thuan Thanh Real Estate Trade for $14.5 million. Thuan Thanh is the legal owner of a 2,000 sq.m plot in District 8 of Ho Chi Minh City. Luong Tri Thin, chairman of Dat Xanh Group, also revealed plans to acquire 100-200ha of land nationwide with complete legal documentation for project development. We aim to acquire and merge project land portfolios with the potential to meet real market needs. Our immediate focus is on legal, clean land in Binh Phuoc and Dong Nai provinces, Thin said. However, securing legally compliant land remains challenging. Rising land prices, intense competition, and legal risks are hurdles that businesses must navigate. With thorough preparation and flexible strategies, companies can overcome these difficulties and tap into promising investment opportunities. Experts view this end-of-year push to expand land portfolios as a positive signal, reflecting an eagerness to gain a head start ahead of an anticipated market recovery next year. According to Linh Tran, deputy director of Investment at Savills Vietnam, foreign interest in Vietnamese real estate has surged, bolstered by recent legal reforms. The amended laws on land and real estate business have streamlined procedures, expanded real estate supply, and opened new avenues for foreign investors, Tran said. She added that the governments efforts to refine the legal framework and stabilise the investment environment are expected to attract more foreign interest in the years ahead. For foreign investors entering Vietnam, projects with a clean legal status and ready for immediate execution are preferred. Therefore, businesses must restructure any projects failing to meet deadlines or profitability targets to align with their investment goals, Tran explained. Some companies are focusing on acquiring projects with financial challenges, while others seek partnerships with substantial landowners. Joint ventures, along with submissions of registration documents and project proposals in collaboration with local authorities, are also widely applied strategies, she added. With that, Vietnams key commodity export markets have been preparing for specific regulations on sustainable production associated with environmental protection. The country must participate with commitment and effort equal to the governments strong pledges made in the last few years. Therefore, Vietnam is building a comprehensive national green transition strategy led by the government, with close coordination between ministries, sectors, local authorities, and both public and private sectors. Specifically, the carbon market development roadmap in Vietnam has been prepared since 2021, will be established and piloted operation of carbon credit exchange in 2025, and will officially operate in 2028. Pham Thi Ngoc Thuy, director, Private Sector Development Committee Office Meanwhile, customers are increasingly mindful of the environmental impacts of their consumption behaviours. Studies in recent years said they are willing to spend more on sustainable goods; and Google searches related to sustainable goods such as energy-efficient appliances and building materials have increased on a massive scale in the past decade. The green transition and net-zero are the new investment trends now. The World Bank estimates about $368 billion of additional investment is required by Vietnam by 2040 to pursue a development pathway that combines resilience and net-zero emissions. In addition, the green economy will reach $300 billion in total national GDP by 2050 under the National Strategy on Green Growth; and total investment capital for developing power generation and transmission grids in 2021-2030 will be $134.7 billion. Our survey on business readiness for decarbonisation and the green transition released in October, conducted on nearly 2,750 businesses, has revealed the readiness of Vietnamese companies. Some 64 per cent of businesses surveyed have not yet prepared for emissions reduction or the green transition, and only 5.5 per cent have actively reduced emissions in critical activities. Just 3.8 per cent have been tracking and publicly reporting their annual emissions reductions. Pressures or drivers for decarbonisation and green transition often come from optimised business performance (52 per cent of respondents), partners or customers in international or national production chains (37 per cent), national regulations (34 per cent), and regulations of export markets (33 per cent). Sustainability is embedded in strategy, goals, and business models across the entire business. Climate and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risks and opportunities are seen as drivers of business transformation and value creation. There should be a chief ESG officer for the business, sustainable development managed by the board of directors, and remuneration linked to sustainability performance. For research and development, sustainability factors are taken into consideration in the product development process. Businesses open cooperation with strategic partners across industries, while pioneering businesses with high ESG ratings contribute to future development and innovation across the industry. Some initial solutions have been proposed, such as compliance with national and global regulations on green transition, and enhanced cooperation with organisations or consulting firms on engineering, tech, and transformation. Initiatives for the green transition in businesses are being promoted such as energy transition, optimisation of production and operation, and the circular economy. First mover advantage includes enhancing green branding; risk management related to fluctuations in supply, demand, and policy shifts; and cost optimisation (save energy, cut operating costs, reduce water waste, save input materials, optimise supply chains, and identify potential areas for designing eco-product categories). To accelerate the green transition in Vietnam, the committee has raised some policy recommendations and related issues. The regulatory framework should be reviewed to remove barriers to the transition process. Vietnam should early issue new legal frameworks as a foundation for green transition like green credits, mandatory and voluntary carbon markets, and green taxonomy. The carbon credit market needs to be operational soon. In addition to legal and infrastructure preparation, it is necessary to focus on the readiness level of the market participants. Capacity building for businesses and stakeholders should be strengthened by periodically implementing programmes to disseminate policies to businesses, and localities and build capacity, especially pioneering businesses in key industries and sectors. Finally, supporting businesses are needed in reducing the cost of implementing a green transition through initial tax and credit incentives or forms of support for market links, technology transfer, and models. 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21 Jun (10) 7 Jun - 14 Jun (13) 31 May - 7 Jun (13) 24 May - 31 May (13) 17 May - 24 May (15) 10 May - 17 May (16) 3 May - 10 May (11) 26 Apr - 3 May (21) 19 Apr - 26 Apr (17) 12 Apr - 19 Apr (20) 5 Apr - 12 Apr (16) 29 Mar - 5 Apr (19) 22 Mar - 29 Mar (17) 15 Mar - 22 Mar (23) 8 Mar - 15 Mar (22) 1 Mar - 8 Mar (21) 22 Feb - 1 Mar (22) 15 Feb - 22 Feb (25) 8 Feb - 15 Feb (25) 1 Feb - 8 Feb (21) 25 Jan - 1 Feb (23) 18 Jan - 25 Jan (19) 11 Jan - 18 Jan (35) 4 Jan - 11 Jan (23) 28 Dec - 4 Jan (27) 21 Dec - 28 Dec (28) 14 Dec - 21 Dec (23) 7 Dec - 14 Dec (22) 30 Nov - 7 Dec (19) 23 Nov - 30 Nov (22) 16 Nov - 23 Nov (19) 9 Nov - 16 Nov (15) 2 Nov - 9 Nov (17) 26 Oct - 2 Nov (10) 19 Oct - 26 Oct (12) 12 Oct - 19 Oct (13) 5 Oct - 12 Oct (19) 28 Sep - 5 Oct (14) 21 Sep - 28 Sep (17) 14 Sep - 21 Sep (19) 7 Sep - 14 Sep (22) 31 Aug - 7 Sep (15) 24 Aug - 31 Aug (14) 17 Aug - 24 Aug (9) 10 Aug - 17 Aug (5) Let us watch WtR Update: Permission for American missile strikes deep into Russia is an unprecedented step that will lead to the start of World War III, but Russias response will be immediate. Vladimir Dzhabarov, First Deputy Chairman of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs, told TASS. This is a very big step towards the beginning of the third world war and the Americans will do it with the hands of a departing old man who will no longer be responsible for anything in two months, Dzhabarov said. *** Lets watch and listen, shall we? A few more words about why the US is happily investing in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. And its not just about the military-industrial complex. https://t.me/medvedev_telegram/543 If we do not take into account the billions for the military complex, then this is how everything looks over the past year: from July 2023 to June 2024, the volume of goods supplied from the US to the EU increased by $93 billion (+34% compared to the 2021 level) and reached $367 billion. In figures for this year, oil supplies from the US to Europe have doubled (+101%, i.e. 37.3 million tons more). Liquefied natural gas by 18.5 million tons (+181%). Fertilizers from practically zero to 666 (!) thousand tons. And so on for many export items. The profit is convincing. After all, Europe has nowhere to go in the conditions of a shortage of raw materials, which was provoked by anti-Russian sanctions. And as a bonus, the Yankees received an exclusive business offer from the expired clown. I already wrote about this, speaking about the interest of the American elite in the returned Russian territories, especially the territories of Donbass. After all, the reserves of mineral raw materials in them are many times greater than everything that remained in the former Ukraine. That is why today the drug addict is trying to maintain the interest of Americans in the war by trading access to natural resources. In general, nothing personal, just . P.S. By the way, during his first coming, Trump actively advocated for the replacement of Russian gas in Europe with American LNG. The end of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict could undermine the position of American liquefied gas in the Old World (one of our conditions is the lifting of sanctions). What will be more important: election promises or money? The question is rhetorical PPS Well, the material results of American investments on the territory of the former Ukraine in the context of the ongoing conflict with Russia will meet the fate of those infrastructure facilities that were subjected to a massive Russian attack this morning. Medvedev WtR This article is old - Published: Sunday, Nov 17th, 2024 Wrexham.com has invited local Members of Parliament and Members of the Senedd to write a monthly article with updates on their work in their respective Parliaments and closer to home you can find them all here. In this months column Clwyd Souths Member of the Senedd, Ken Skates writes: Whatever else is happening across Wales at the moment, the Remembrance period is one that unites us all. I have been proud to take part in a number of events over the past few days to pay my respects. I attended the annual service in Wrexham on Sunday, and to mark Armistice Day on Monday I visited Hightown Barracks. As the Welsh Government Minister with responsibility for the Armed Forces, I was also able to attend several events with Veterans last week. These included a Veterans employment event and a Remembrance service with the Merchant Navy Association in Cardiff. It was an honour to be involved with each and every event and to pay tribute to those who sacrificed all of their tomorrows for peace in our time. We will remember them. I have been contacted by numerous constituents in recent months about the future of the role of Metastatic Cancer Nurse Specialist at Wrexham Maelor Hospital, so I was very pleased to learn that the Welsh Government has earmarked further funding to preserve this crucial post. This is a vital role with a caseload of around 200 patients, who all value it extremely highly. Clearly, the continuing uncertainty about the future of the role is detrimental to all concerned, and my constituents who are regular visitors to the oncology department are asking why Wrexham is the only North Wales hospital where the position isnt permanent. I will continue to raise this issue. After my recent representations to Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, I was told by chair Dyfed Edwards: Since you last wrote to us, we have provided the necessary assurance to Welsh Government about the impact of this temporary funding. Securing this funding on a recurrent basis is now contingent on the Health Board meeting its financial targets for the current year. A significant amount of hard work is taking place across the Health Board to achieve this, in order to ensure that this valuable additional resource remains within the health service in North Wales. On Friday I visited Ysgol Bryn Collen in Llangollen to learn more about a campaign to increase everyday walking which is already having an impact. It was brilliant to take part in the walk and assembly with pupils and staff and hear that Living Streets challenge has seen childrens active journeys almost double in the few weeks from the start of September to the end of October. Living Streets Cymru is part of the UK-wide charity for everyday walking. Its campaigning previously led to the UKs first zebra crossings, and now, with Welsh Government funding, it is working with 170 primary schools and 42 secondary schools to increase the number of children walking to school. WOW is Living Streets year-round challenge. Its a pupil-led initiative where children self-report how they get to school every day using an interactive travel tracker, and its first year saw a 54% increase in active journeys. At Bryn Collen, theyve already gone up from 38% at the start of September to 69% at the end of October. Along with Clwyd East MP Becky Gittins, I met with Denbighshire County Council and Llangollen Town Council in late October as part of the campaign to keep the towns public toilets open. It was a constructive meeting, and Becky and I remain positive. We believe that all parties are now on the same page and were working towards a solution which will keep the toilets open. If you are a constituent of Clwyd South and need help or advice, please email ken.skates@senedd.wales or call my office on 01978 869058 to ask about upcoming surgeries. You can also follow me on Facebook and subscribe to my e-newsletters by contacting my office. Survey reveals alarming rise in abuse against shop workers in Wales This article is old - Published: Sunday, Nov 17th, 2024 Shop workers in Wales are being threatened, spat at and assaulted by customers, a new survey has revealed. The shocking findings have been released by Usdaw, the retail trade union, as part of this years Respect for Shop Workers Week, which runs from 11-17 November. Usdaw members are raising awareness of the unions year-round Freedom From Fear Campaign and talking to the public to promote a message of respect for shop workers. Over 4,000 retail staff were questioned as part of the survey which revealed that many are being routinely threatened and assaulted by customers. Interim results have revealed that in the last 12 months: 69 per cent have experienced verbal abuse. 45 per cent were threatened by a customer 17 per cent had been assaulted. 70 per cent of these incidents were triggered by shoplifting and two-thirds of those were linked to addiction. Retail staff across Wales have shared their experiences in work as part of the Usdaw survey, with one worker stating that they had been spat at, pushed against the wall, punched and threatened with a knife. Another was told to F**k off and threatened by five people that they would get beaten up when my shift finished. after refusing to serve the group alcohol. Other comments from Welsh retail workers include: Aggressive tones and comments, swearing, shouting. Someone once called me a dumb c**t. Been punched in the face, kicked under my chin and had stitches. Wrist sprained and products thrown at me which knocked me to the floor. Rose plant thrown at me and threatened to be stabbed. Refused to sell alcohol to customer who then threw items at me. Shoplifters just laugh in our faces as they leave with bags full of washing powder. They dont care anymore because they know we cant do anything. Paddy Lillis, Usdaw General Secretary, said the surveys findings make for very difficult reading and is proof that theft from shops is not a victimless crime. It is shocking that over two-thirds of our members working in retail are suffering abuse from customers, with far too many experiencing threats and violence, said Paddy Lillis. Seven in ten of these incidents were triggered by theft from shops, which is clearly the result of a 33 per cent increase in police recorded shoplifting across Wales over the year to June. It has become increasingly common for retail stores to be targeted by organised crime gangs stealing to order in the midst of a retail crime epidemic. Our survey demonstrates that theft from shops is not a victimless crime, with incidents regularly being a major flashpoint for violence and abuse against shop workers. Having to deal with repeated and persistent theft and even looting can cause issues beyond the incident itself like anxiety, fear and in some cases physical harm to retail workers. Our members are reporting that they are often faced with hardened career criminals in their stores and much of the abuse they suffer is from those who are stealing to sell goods on, often to fund an addiction. After 14 years of successive Tory governments not delivering the change we need on retail crime, we are pleased that the new Labour Government announced a Crime and Policing Bill in the Kings Speech. This new legislation will deliver a much-needed protection of shop workers law; end the indefensible 200 threshold for prosecuting shoplifters, which has effectively become an open invitation to retail criminals; along with town centre banning orders for repeat offenders. The Chancellor announced in the Budget funding to tackle the organised criminals responsible for the increase in shoplifting, and the Government has promised more uniformed officer patrols in shopping areas. It is our hope that these new measures will help give shop workers the respect they deserve. This week, Usdaw activists will be campaigning in their workplaces and communities calling on the shopping public to respect shop workers and keep your cool, particularly in the run-up to Christmas when the number of incidents increases as shops get busy and customers become frustrated. This is a hugely important issue for our members, and they are saying loud and clear that enough is enough. An Alabama sweet tea company is $500,000 richer, after a successful appearance on the ABC reality series Shark Tank. If you thought Milos was the only game in town, say hello to Yall Sweet Tea, a business founded in 2021 by Darien Craig and Brandon Echols of Hayden. The two entrepreneurs, whove been friends since childhood, introduced their company to the celebrity investors (known as sharks) on the Nov. 15 episode of the ABC reality series. Craig and Echols said theyve created a tasty product and built a strong social media presence, growing their business over the past three years. Their pitch to the sharks was so well received, it prompted three competing offers from the investors, allowing Craig and Echols to choose their favorite. But first, they had to introduce their company and sing its praises for the sharks. Weve known each other since we were 6 years old. We graduated from high school together, dropped out of college together, and somehow, out of all these years, weve never been in a fight, Craig and Echols said on the show. Well, theres one argument that weve never seemed to settle, and that argument is: Who makes the best sweet tea? The longtime friends said they combined recipes from two relatives Echols mother and Craigs grandmother and came up with the essential recipe for Yall Sweet Tea. They also offered iced samples of the tea to five potential investors featured on the episode: Kevin OLeary, Barbara Corcoran, Lori Greiner, Mark Cuban and Rashaun L. Williams. From left, celebrity investors Mark Cuban, Barbara Corcoran, Kevin O'Leary, Lori Greiner and Rashaun Williams on "Shark Tank."(Disney/Christopher Willard) Their pitch for Yall Sweet Tea received a boost from a Southern cook and social media influencer who popped up to endorse the brand: Sue Garrett, also known as Mama Sue of Mama Sues Southern Kitchen, which is based in Helena. Ive been drinking tea for 71 years, and honey, I can tell you, Yall Sweet Tea is the best Ive ever had, Garrett told the sharks, prompting smiles and chuckles from the panel. Yall Sweet Tea comes in a colorful pouch containing 10 gallon-size tea bags that are brewed by the customer. Despite the product name, theres no sugar or artificial sweetener in the tea bags; users must sweeten the tea to their own tastes. Along with the original blend, Yall Sweet Tea comes in several flavors, including peach, watermelon, raspberry and mango. Darien Craig, right, and Brandon Echols, founders of Y'all Sweet Tea, pitch their Alabama-based business to celebrity entrepreneurs on "Shark Tank." The episode aired on Nov. 15, 2024.(Disney/Christopher Willard) The absence of sweetener in Yall Sweet Tea didnt seem to bother the sharks, who proclaimed their samples delicious and proceeded to ask questions about the companys costs, sales figures and goals. Craig and Echols said they own 100 percent of the company and have no outstanding loans. With an appearance on Shark Tank, they were seeking an investment to expand their business in a major way. Were only three years in, so you know, the sales are, were happy about them, Craig said. But Im real glad to say that today weve just passed $10.3 million since 2021. Eighty-five percent of our sales comes directly to our website, Echols said. Were in about 600 grocery stores, mainly throughout the Southeast, but we want to go into big box stores. Thats our next big plan. Weve even had some discussion with Walmart a few months back. They talked to us about doing a 500-store test. Craig and Echols asked the sharks for a $500,000 investment for a 5% stake in Yall Sweet Tea, with a $10 million valuation for the company. In the end, they received three competing offers for that sum, with varying percentages for the investors. Rashaun Williams gave Yall Sweet Tea the first vote of confidence, offering the entrepreneurs $500,000 for a 10% stake in the company. Williams, from Atlanta, is a venture capitalist and a limited partner in the Atlanta Falcons, according to his LinkedIn profile. Ill let you figure out if you want to go to Walmart, if you want to stay direct to consumer or what balance of both, Williams said. I think you guys are smart enough, charismatic enough. You dont need me to tell you how to run this business, but Ill give you money, Ill give you access, Ill give you influencers if you want not that you need it. But I think you guys are a rocket ship. I think if you had the right money and the right resources, you can continue to grow. Mark Cuban and Barbara Corcoran passed on a deal, but Lori Greiner said she wanted to partner with Williams, splitting a $500,000 investment for a 15% stake in the company, with 7.5% each for Greiner and Williams. I have tons of products that have done extremely well in grocery, Greiner said. This is so cute, so impressive. This is fabulous packaging, fabulous name. And if I were walking down the grocery aisle, Id go to this one. And so I want to be in on it, and I think we can blow it up, like be the Name of Tea. Kevin OLeary, known on Shark Tank as Mr. Wonderful, offered the same deal as a partner with Williams. He wanted to split a $500,000 investment for a 15% stake in the company, with 7.5% each for OLeary and Williams. After some discussion and wrangling, Echols and Craig opted for the $500,000 offer from Williams and Greiner. The two sharks appeared thrilled with the deal, jumping up to shake hands and hug the entrepreneurs from Hayden. Lori Greiner, left, and Rashaun Williams, second from left, celebrate a deal made on "Shark Tank" with Alabama's Darien Craig, second from right, and Brandon Echols, right. Craig and Echols are the founders of Y'all Sweet Tea, a company based in Hayden.(Disney/Christopher Willard) Alabama in the building! Williams said, noting that his family roots are in Bessemer. Were going to kill it. Man, this is a dream come true, to get a deal with two sharks, Echols said. Rashaun is an awesome businessman, and Lori has so much experience in retail. It couldnt have been a better deal. A tree holding a bald eagles nest that was at the center of a controversial residential development in Auburn was cut down over the weekend, city officials and news outlets reported on Saturday. City officials posted on Facebook that they were gravely disappointed to learn that the tree containing the bald eagles nest at the Heritage Ridge development has now been cut down by the developer and landowner, Edgar Hughston Builder, Inc. The developer had agreed to a meeting with Mayor Pro Tem Witten and Mayor Ron Anders scheduled for Monday, November 18 to discuss potential options for protecting and preserving the eagles nesting area. Unfortunately, it appears the decision to cut down the nest tree has eliminated those options, the city statement read. Efforts to reach Hughston Homes were not immediately successful on Sunday. Auburn City Manager Megan McGowen Crouch has instructed the city attorneys office to contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to strongly encourage an investigation to determine whether the terms and conditions of the permit were followed by Hughston, the city statement read. WRBL shared video footage posted by Auburn resident John Braswell shows the tree and the destroyed home of bald eagles, Jim and Pam, off North College Avenue near the E.W. Shell Fisheries Center. Jim and Pam are named after characters from the sitcom The Office. More than 7,500 Auburn residents and wildlife advocates signed an online petition calling for an end to plans to demolish the bald eagles nest. Kade Evan Turner, who started the petition on Change.org, asked Hughston Homes to recognize the severity of their proposed actions and reconsider their development plans. We understand that development plans for a 46-home subdivision have been approved for this location, but we believe that a compromise is possible one that accommodates the development needs of our growing community while preserving Jim and Pams home, Turner wrote. Auburn city council member Beth Witten, in a Facebook post on Saturday, said she had been assured that Hughston Homes would take no action until a meeting scheduled for Monday. Witten wrote that she was devastated that she was intentionally deceived into thinking the city would have an opportunity to discuss options to save the nest. The removal of the tree, which happened late Friday night or early Saturday morning, showed disregard for a community they want to do business with, Witten wrote of the developer. On Friday, Hughston Homes said it received a permit from the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service to remove the nest. Please know that this decision was made with respect for the environment and the welfare of these magnificent birds, said the company. It later revealed a recent donation to the Alabama Conservation and Natural Resources Foundation to support ongoing conservation efforts. The developer plans to build 46 homes surrounding the nesting site. Residents say the ruined tree held the eagles nest since 2017. The eagles had been a beloved part of the community for more than seven years. To the residents of Ward 3 and really the whole Auburn family, please know this has been gut-wrenching. And I support fully the request of the City Manager to have city attorneys request a full investigation by Fish and Wildlife, Witten wrote. The homebuilder has said it was unaware of Jim and Pams nest when it bought the property. While preserving the tree was our first thought and foremost priority, regulations require maintaining an undisturbed radius of 330 feet around the nest. Unfortunately, this area extended into critical sections of the property, impacting nearby wetlands, Hughston Homes said. The time of year tells us that there are no eggs, hatchlings or young chicks incapable of taking on life outside of the nest present in the nest, Hughston Homes statement continued. We took this step with the knowledge that these resilient birds are capable of establishing a new nest close to their former habitat. Although she has not said how she will on President-elect Donald Trumps cabinet nominees, U.S. Sen. Katie Britt, R-Ala., said all deserve a chance to make their case why they should be confirmed. On Friday, Britt said on Huntsville radio WVNNs The Dale Jackson Show " that every Trump cabinet nominee should have a chance to explain their qualifications and make their case for why they should be confirmed. Every nominee deserves that opportunity to make their case and to explain their plan, to explain their philosophy, to answer questions and to say, Hey, this is how Im going to execute the responsibilities that have been given to me by the President, and this is what Im going to do for the office that Ive been nominated, said Britt. Trumps nomination of Florida Republican U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz as Attorney General has been the source of some controversy. While Alabamas senior senator, Tommy Tuberville, has said Republicans who vote against Gaetz will be voted out of office, Britt has yet to say how she will vote. Her office told AL.com in a statement on Friday that she looks forward to reviewing each nomination as they move forward in the process. Working with President Trump, Senator Britt and her colleagues are eager to deliver results for American families and get our nation back on track. Since Trumps transition to the White House, Britt said she has not discussed the floor nomination with any of her colleagues. When we came out of those leadership elections, I expected to walk into the hall and confirm every person there, I voted for Rick Scott, and this is why, said Britt. She said she believes legislators must quickly prepare for upcoming hearings once they are sworn in on January 3. This will be a real test obviously to see how much we can get done before Trump is sworn in, so we can have those votes immediately after and get his cabinet in place, said Britt. According to Britt, many mothers are excited about Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.s nomination for Secretary of Health and Human Services. Ive gotten a ton of moms that are just so excited that were gonna have someone thats gonna speak directly about, you know, food and directly about toxins that are here in America but arent in Europe, Britt said. Britt remains committed to the President-elects cabinet nominations despite the opinions of others. I am committed to the process and certainly look forward to getting his cabinet filled and, you know, getting to work, said Britt. President-elect Donald Trumps victory should bring some clarity to Americans with student loans, but probably not in the way theyd hoped. A flurry of Biden administration initiatives and court rulings against them have left millions of borrowers uncertain about their future payments. Many federal student loans, in fact, are stuck in a period of limbo with no monthly payments because the company servicing them cant determine what the payments should be. Trump has made his dislike for student debt relief clear, saying its unfair to borrowers and taxpayers who pay their debts in full. Further stirring uncertainty, Trump has said hed like to eliminate the Department of Education which oversees student loan policies a goal shared by many Republicans. The bottom line is that Biden administration efforts to ease debt burdens are likely to be swept away in short order. President Biden managed to forgive an enormous amount of debt for a huge number of borrowers during his term about $175 billion in relief for nearly 5 million borrowers. But the pendulum is about to swing hard in the other direction. Here is a rundown of where the major Biden student debt relief initiatives stand: Current debt relief programs In July 2023, the Education Department launched the first elements of its Saving on a Valuable Education repayment plan to cut payments and forgive low balances on federal student loans more quickly. Like several other repayment plans, SAVE allows borrowers to pay 10% of their discretionary income each month for 20 to 25 years, at which point their remaining balance would be forgiven. But it raised the amount of income considered nondiscretionary by 50%, immediately lowering monthly payments, and forgave any interest that accrued while a borrower remained current. And starting in July 2024, it was set to slash payments dramatically, to 5% of discretionary income. By mid-2024, 8 million borrowers had joined the SAVE plan. Thats when seven Republican state attorneys general sued. On Aug. 9 the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals published a ruling temporarily blocking the entire plan. In other words, no lower payments, no loan forgiveness. According to a unanimous three-judge panel, the Education Department did not have the authority to expand the reach and cost of loan forgiveness so dramatically a 3,000% increase, according to the panel without explicit instructions from Congress. Assuming the Trump administration abandons the SAVE plan, borrowers enrolled in it will have to shift to a different repayment plan with significantly higher monthly payments. In one example provided by the department, a single borrower earning $40,000 a year and owing $45,000 would see payments increase from $60 in the SAVE plan to $151, $227 or $349, depending on the plan chosen. The panels ruling affected more than just the SAVE plan, however. The 8th Circuits ruling also calls into question the legal foundation for loan forgiveness in two other income-driven plans Income-Contingent Repayment and Pay As You Earn. A future administration could decide that those borrowers still owe their unpaid balances, with interest, even after theyve made the requisite number of monthly payments. These borrowers could switch to other repayment plans where the legal basis for loan forgiveness hasnt been challenged, although that could raise their costs. The Education Department no longer allows borrowers to sign up for the ICR and PAYE plans, but they can still enroll in SAVE even though monthly payments have been suspended at least until April 2025, according to the National Assn. of Student Aid Administrators. The Education Department says the loans in forbearance wont accrue interest, but they wont move any closer to forgiveness, either. The ruling didnt affect the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, which extinguishes the loan balances of borrowers who work in government agencies or certain types of nonprofits for 10 years, and the Income-Based Repayment plans, which forgive loans after 20 to 25 years of payments (depending on when the borrower enrolled). Trump sought to eliminate the public service forgiveness plan during his first term, but it would take an act of Congress to do so. The same is true for income-based repayment plans, which have the same statutory foundation: the College Cost Reduction and Access Act, which President George W. Bush signed into law in 2007. Proposed blanket loan forgiveness Shortly after the U.S. Supreme Court threw out Bidens original proposal to offer blanket forgiveness of up to $20,000 in student debt, the Education Department started work on a less expansive proposal for blanket debt relief and debt reduction. The draft rules would have canceled the debts of borrowers whod been making payments for at least 20 to 25 years and wiped out interest-related debt for certain borrowers, but like the SAVE plan, they were challenged by seven Republican state attorneys general, who argued that the department overstepped its authority. A federal judge in Georgia temporarily blocked the rules two days after the lawsuit was filed. When that order expired, a federal judge in Missouri blocked it again. Missouris Republican attorney general, Andrew Bailey, boiled down the plaintiffs argument against debt relief in a tweet: This is a HUGE victory for every American who wont have to pay someone elses Ivy League debt, Bailey wrote. As with the litigation over the SAVE plan, the Education Department is expected to stop defending the draft rules under the Trump administration. Nor is it expected to stand behind a second element on the new forgiveness plan thats still in development: a rule allowing the department to forgive debts when borrowers are in financial hardship and most likely to default within two years. Loans already forgiven or modified Experts say that borrowers whove already had their loans forgiven wont be affected by the changes bought by the Trump administration. Also, many borrowers enrolled in Public Service Loan Forgiveness have moved significantly closer to the end of their payments, thanks to accounting adjustments ordered by the Biden administration. Those adjustments, which included giving some borrowers credit for years spent in forbearance, were made in the name of correcting what the administration argued were record-keeping errors, bad management and predatory practices by the companies servicing federal student loans. The same adjustments applied to other income-driven repayment programs, moving those borrowers closer to loan forgiveness. The 8th Circuits ruling, however, throws into doubt whether borrowers in the PAYE and ICR programs will ultimately be eligible for having their debts forgiven. The possible end of the Department of Education The president cant kill a federal department unilaterally. That would take an act of Congress, along with a considerable amount of work figuring out which duties get taken over by other agencies and which ones get left to the states. Abby Shafroth, co-director of advocacy for the National Consumer Law Center, said shifting management of the loan programs to the Treasury Department would likely risk substantial disruption for borrowers just due to the logistics of making that change. But any change in their repayment rights or options, she said, would depend on policy changes made through new laws or rules. Natalia Abrams, president and founder of the Student Debt Crisis Center, said the bigger concern is the shift from an administration concerned about student debt burdens to one thats not. She said her organization and other nonprofits met regularly with officials in the Biden and Obama administrations to get updates on student loans, but only once with the Trump administration. Noting previous proposals from GOP leaders and conservative think tanks, Abrams said Republicans have shown their interest in overhauling loan programs and eliminating the opportunities for debt forgiveness, which would just keep people in their student loan debt for decades to come. 2024 Los Angeles Times. Visit at latimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. English News China, Peru reap more development opportunities in strengthened economic, trade exchanges Alwihda Info | Par People's Daily - 13 Novembre 2024 The increasing economic and trade exchanges between China and Peru are bringing new opportunities to more and more Peruvian small and medium-sized enterprises. The Peruvian alpaca wool product brand Warmpaca has joined the China International Import Expo for seven consecutive years and has gained popularity among Chinese consumers. By Jiang Bo, People's Daily Peru is one of the first Latin American countries to establish diplomatic relations and a comprehensive strategic partnership with the People's Republic of China. It is also the first Latin American country to sign a package of free trade agreements with China. In recent years, under the strategic guidance of the heads of state of the two countries, cooperation between China and Peru has yielded fruitful results in various fields, with a series of pragmatic cooperation projects contributing to Peru's economic development and livelihood improvement. About 500 kilometers from Lima, Peru's capital, a busy harvest scene unfolds at a blueberry farm owned by Camposol, a company based in the city of Trujillo. Since entering the Chinese market in 2009, Camposol has steadily increased both the variety and volume of its exports to China, with products like blueberries, avocados, and grapes gaining growing popularity among Chinese consumers. In April 2009, China and Peru signed a free trade agreement (FTA), which officially came into effect in 2010 and serves as a catalyst for bilateral trade growth. In June of this year, the two countries announced the completion of negotiations on upgrading the FTA. Thanks to the FTA, Peru's non-traditional products have begun to reach Chinese households. Peru has become the largest supplier of blueberries and avocados to China, with products such as quinoa, grapes, maca, alpaca wool, among others, gaining popularity in the Chinese market. It is reported that China and Peru are actively negotiating on issues such as the export of high-quality Peruvian frozen fruits to China, and positive progress has been made. "The Peru-China FTA has provided significant impetus for Peruvian agricultural products to enter the Chinese market. By reducing trade barriers and lowering market access, the FTA has created new opportunities for Peruvian producers, driving the development of Peruvian agriculture," said Luis Baanante, general manager of Camposol China. In recent years, China has become the company's fastest-growing and most promising market. In order to further expand exports to China, the company established an office in Shanghai in 2017, Baanante said. Currently, the company's sales network covers most regions in China. The Chinese and Peruvian economies are highly complementary. With joint efforts from both sides, China has become Peru's largest trading partner for 10 consecutive years, and Peru is the second largest investment destination of China in Latin America. In 2023, the bilateral trade volume reached $37.69 billion. According to Peruvian statistics, over the past 14 years, Peru's exports to China have grown by 325.9 percent, with an average annual growth of 13.2 percent. Teresa Mera, vice-minister for Foreign Trade of Peru's Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism, said that the increasing market demand in China has driven the vigorous development of Peru's export industry. The signing of the FTA has greatly enhanced the level of trade between Peru and China. Since the agreement came into effect, Peru's non-traditional exports to China have increased by 227 percent, making Peru the second largest fruit supplier to China in Latin America. The increasing economic and trade exchanges between China and Peru are bringing new opportunities to more and more Peruvian small and medium-sized enterprises. The Peruvian alpaca wool product brand Warmpaca has joined the China International Import Expo for seven consecutive years and has gained popularity among Chinese consumers. Today, Warmpaca products are sold in more than 30 shopping malls in China. The brand has also expanded to e-commerce platforms, selling over 30,000 products each year. Julio Perez Alvan, president of the Peruvian Association of Exporters, said that since 2010, China has grown into the fifth largest export market for Peruvian non-traditional products, up from the ninth place, which demonstrates the enormous potential for economic and trade cooperation between the two countries. The association will promote more high-quality Peruvian products to China, aiming to achieve mutual benefit and win-win outcomes, the president added. Dans la meme rubrique : < > China's economic resilience: overcoming challenges, advancing with confidence High-quality Belt and Road cooperation create opportunities for global growth China's new chapter in global innovation Pour toute information, contactez-nous au : +(235) 99267667 ; 62883277 ; 66267667 (Bureau N'Djamena) Following the electoral miracle of 2024, many conservatives have swiftly moved on to a contemplation of the persons, procedures, and policies that will best advance an American renaissance. Kindly allow a retired pastor and bush-league theologian to explain why they should notnot, at least, until they have paused to reflect seriously on the purposes of the One who granted it. Consider, then, this short narrative recorded in the New Testament by Dr. Luke (Luke 17:11-17): The Lord Jesus has just healed ten lepers and ordered them to report the miracle to the priests. Demonstrating that a spiritual test lay hidden in his command, one of the former lepers, a Samaritan, came back to Jesus, fell to the ground, and poured out his heart in thanksgiving to Christ and God. The Lords response is well worth pondering: Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? Were there not any found who returned to give glory to God except this foreigner? Then he said to the man, Arise, go your way. Your faith has made you well. Let every American listen hard to this text. For decades the spiritual leprosy of atheistic Neo-Marxism has been spreading through our body politic, bringing massive sickness, corruption, and death in its train. But suddenly, in a patently miraculous turn of events, it was arrested and (one fervently hopes) permanently put to flight not by President Trump, not by the MAGA movement, and not even by the voters, though all three were indeed heavens instruments. Rather, it was put to flight by the sovereign God, in whose hands lie the hearts, minds, and votes of all men (Proverbs 21:1). He is the One, said the prophet, who changes times and seasons; who removes kings and raises them up (Daniel 2:21; 4:1-37). But if that is so, should we not imitate the grateful Samaritan; should we not be falling on our faces before God, pouring out our hearts in thanksgiving to him? And should we not be asking him what he means by this miracle of Providence, and what he now would have us to do? If we truly desire lasting wellness, then surely we must. I have just suggested two reasons for the miracle of 2024: God wants us to see that he himself is the One who performed it, and that for our own spiritual health, we should thank him for it. But what more would he have us to learn and do as we press into a better future? I offer five brief replies. First, he would have us understand how he works in history. The Apostle Paul sums it up this way: Where sin abounded, grace abounded much more. This principle so dramatically manifested in Christs death and resurrection governs the flow of all world events. For a season, by Gods wise decree, sin will abound. During such times, He is testing our discernment, integrity, courage, and aptitude for self-sacrifice. Then, when it appears that evil is about to triumph, He suddenly intervenes, grace super-abounds, goodness wins out, and the nations behold his sovereignty, wisdom, holiness, and justice. We observe this principle in Scripture (Daniel 2, Revelation 13). We see it in the succession of world empires. We have seen it in recent history; in the rise and fall of communist and socialist regimes. And (one fervently hopes) we are seeing now in a current revival of the American Experiment. It began on Nov. 5, 2024, a day when Gods grace did indeed super-abound. Secondly, he would teach us to repent of all known sin. For surely the blessing of 2024 was not granted because of our righteousness (though there is some), but in spite of our sin. It was altogether of Gods goodness, mercy, and grace. And, as the apostle wrote, the goodness of God is meant to lead us to repentance (Romans 2:4). So too are his providential chastisements, so painfully abundant over the last few decades (Hebrews 12:6). Why then do we proudly boast about making America great again? Would it not be far better to humble ourselves, repent of our sin, and purpose in our hearts to make America good again? In Scripture, the Great City (of proud and fallen mankind) is slated for destruction (Revelation 18), whereas the Holy City (of penitent and redeemed mankind) is slated for eternal life and glory (Revelation 21). Do we want America to enjoy true greatness? Then let us swiftly repent of all atheism, idolatry, lawlessness, abortion, sexual immorality, military adventurism, greed, (class) hatred (a species of murder according to Christ), lying, slander, and tyranny of every kind. The message of 2024 is clear: Sin no more, lest something worse than the previous decade befall you (John 5:14). Thirdly, God would have us come (back) to him through his one and only channel of redemption and blessing: the Lord Jesus Christ. In the noxious spiritual atmosphere now enveloping the West, a vague, generic spirituality will no longer suffice. To survive the new warfare, we must unite with the true victor. Lavishly, palpably, God has shown us that the victor is Jesus Christ. His righteous life, mighty miracles, atoning death, public resurrection, and exaltation to the right hand of God all in fulfillment of hundreds of ancient prophecies plainly mark him out as a man set apart; nay, as the God-Man, as God in human flesh. It is this Man now seated at the right hand of the Father, with all authority in Heaven and Earth who just spared our country, having largely done so through concerned pastors, lay thought leaders, Biblically motivated voters, and the residuum of Christian values still operating in the broader culture. But if all this is so, then surely Gods message in our recent election includes this most loving command: Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest He be angry and you perish in the way, when His wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all who put their trust in Him! (Psalm 2). Do we desire the blessing of 2024 to continue? Let us kiss the Son and put our trust in him. Fourthly, God is calling us to recommit ourselves to the American Experiment. I opine that he is quite friendly to it. True, the Founding Fathers declined to make America a Christian theocracy. But they did make it a theistic republic, a republic in which the enjoyment of personal liberty is always to be sustained by obedience to Natural Law and the Judeo-Christian traditions. Accordingly, the experiment involves a frank recognition of the depravity of man, of his perennial lust for power, and therefore of our need for institutional safeguards (i.e., democracy, separation of powers, limited government), all of which are enshrined in our majestic Declaration, Constitution, and Bill of Rights. This rich inheritance places great responsibility upon the citizenry: to honor God, educate oneself, cultivate strong families (the cultural womb of the next generation), and remain ever vigilant against the manifold encroachments of tyranny. To receive Gods message in 2024 is to appreciate afresh the dangers of life in a fallen world, but also to celebrate the blessings of life in the last best hope of the earth. It is to rededicate oneself to understanding and living out the American Experiment. Finally, through the election of 2024, God would prepare us for the dramatic closing scenes of universal history. Mercifully and graciously, he has revealed them to us in the Bible. There we learn that under the influence of invisible satanic forces a Babylonian Principle is ever at work in human history, according to which powerful (and powerfully deceptive) men are ever seeking to establish a global empire for the glory of man, rather than a global kingdom for the glory of God. Hitherto, the one true God has frustrated all such efforts. However, as we near the end, he will permit that effort one final time, and for a brief moment it will succeed. In that day, evil will abound as never before. But at the return of Christ, which will swiftly follow, mercy and grace will super-abound. And this time in an eternal city set upon a hill they will super-abound forever. Dean Davis is a retired pastor, and the Director of Come Let Us Reason, a Bible teaching ministry specializing in worldview studies and apologetics. Image: Fgaytan818, via Wikimedia Commons // CC BY-SA 4.0 There have been thousands of words written about the 2024 presidential election, but I think Jeffrey Tuckers article at Brownstone best summarized the sea change in votes cast , and Victor Davis Hanson best describes the cabinet nominees so far of greatest significance, people selected in part to avenge their treatment by the prior lawless administration. Tucker argues that what we are seeing is an actual, not purported, transfer of power. A transfer from a permanent government to a new one actually responsive to actual voters against pollster predictions: What was correct were the betting odds on Polymarket, and only days later, the FBI raided the 26-year-old founders home and confiscated his phone and laptop. There are still many millions of missing voters, people who supposedly showed up for Biden in 2020 but stayed home this time. Meanwhile, there has been a historic shift in all races, ethnicities, and regions, with even the possibility of flipping California from blue to red in the future. After decades of academic slicing and dicing of the population according to ever more eccentric identity buckets involving race, ethnicity, gender, and sexual interest, along with countless thousands of studies documenting deep complexity over intersectionality, the driving force of the election was simple: class, and the few intellectuals and some wealthy entrepreneurs who understand that. The division was not really left vs right. It was workers vs laptoppers, wage earners vs six-figure stay-at-homers, bottom half vs top 5 percent, people with actual skills vs weaponized resume wielders, and those with affection for old-world values vs those whose educations have beaten it out of them for purposes of career advancement. The silent majority has never been so suddenly loud. It just so happened that the heavily privileged had come to inhabit easily identifiable sectors of American society and, in the end, had no choice but hitch the whole of the overclass wagon to the fortunes of a candidate like themselves (Kamala) but who was unable to pull off a compelling masquerade. Not even a parade of well-paid celebrity endorsements could save her from total rebuke at the polls. Hanson contends the nominees are reformers, not nihilators, who have themselves been victimized by the administrative state: Many of Trump first-round picks share some common themes. One, many, who were in the past victimized by government bullies and cowardly bureaucratic grandees, or proved sharp critics of the administrative state, are now, in karma-style, in charge of the very agencies that hounded him. So, Elon Musk, perennial target of government regulatory functionaries, was once policed, but now he polices the bureaucratic police. Robert Kennedy, Jr., proposed overseer of government health programs, was often blasted as a crank by the subsidized scientists and the administrators within HHS whom he will now direct. Pete Hegseth fought the military DEI machinery while a soldier in the ranks and wrote a book about the corruption of the Pentagon. He will now, if confirmed, run the Pentagon. Tulsi Gabbard was improperly put on a national security travel watch list as a supposed security threat -- and now will be a guardian of our security as Director of National Intelligence. Tom Homan was derided by the Biden administration and its Homeland Security minions as a fanatic border hawk; now he will run ICE and deal with the detritus of Biden fanaticism on the border. Two, none of these appointments are traditional swamp creatures. Few rotate from the think tanks. This time around there are no retired Wise Men or retired four-stars. Few are Uniparty magnificoes revolving back into high government from their DC university or New York corporate and investment waystations. None are DEI, cover-our-identity-politics-base candidates. By design, their past government service resumes are thin -- few past undersecretaries of these or special assistant to those. And there are not a lot of suffixed alphabetic letters or prefixed long-winded titles that adorn their names. In other words, they are vaxed from the sort of acculturated administrative state mindset that has alienated and terrified the citizenry. In sum, they certainly reflect the same shift we saw in the voters. The movement from an administrative state to the sort of republic the Founders envisioned, should be easier as a result of recent Supreme Court cases reining in an out-of-control unelected federal work force. This week even the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals weighed in on the issue in Marin Audubon Society v. FAA, in which it held that the Council on Environmental Quality lacked any authority to prescribe the content of environmental impact statements, something it had been doing since 1978. Think! For over four decades this agency has been deciding when such statements are necessary (each of which cost thousands and thousands of dollars to prepare) and what they must contain while acting with no legal authority to do so. With regard to all federal agency action, every projects organizers and their counsels have been complying without the Court's challenging by examining the National Environmental Policy Act to determine if the Council even had jurisdiction. Had they done so, they would have easily discovered the Council had appropriated to itself powers it did not have. I cannot think of a clearer example of how easily, without questioning, we have accepted the bureaucratic leviathan. Vivek Ramaswamy, co-nominee for the head of the Department of Government efficiency (DOGE) made clear the chainsaw they intend to take to the bureaucratic state: Heres a key point about our mission at DOGE: eliminating bureaucratic regulations isnt a mere policy preference. Its a legal *mandate* from the U.S. Supreme Court: -- West Virginia v. EPA (2022) held that agencies cannot decide major questions of economic or political significance without "clear congressional authorization." This applies to *thousands* of rules that never passed Congress. -- In Loper Bright v. Raimondo (2024), the Court ended Chevron deference, which means agencies can't foist their own interpretations of the law onto the American people. Over 18,000 federal cases cited the Chevron doctrine, often to uphold regulations, many of which are now null & void. - In SEC v. Jarkesy (2024), SCOTUS restricted the use of "administrative law judges" by agencies. The same agency that wrote the rules shouldn't be able to prosecute citizens in courts that it controls. -- In Corner Post v. Board of Governors (2024), the Court held that new businesses can challenge old regulations, greatly expanding the statute of limitations & opening many more rules up for scrutiny. So we shouldn't just look at rules passed in the last 4 years, but over the past 4 decades (or more). Administrative Courts inside the executive branch with which Jarkesy dealt, are found within the Department of Labor, the FDA, EPA, and SEC. As I read Jarkesy, no longer can any such court adjudicate disputes that relate to their agencys regulations. If the agency has such a dispute, they will have to take it to a federal court to decide. This administration will shut down those courts. I agree with the X Poster Cynical Publius, this is a monumental change: What he is saying is that the federal government will stop enforcing all rules that were authorized by the Chevron doctrine and that we're going to shut down all federal administrative law courts housed in the Executive Branch. Huge. Yuge. Enormous. This is Martin Luther nailing the Ninety-Five Theses to the door of the cathedral in Wittenberg. This is the most transformational thing to happen in U.S. governance since Woodrow Wilson started the misbegotten "Progressive" era. The best thing is, they do not need Congressional approval to do any of this and challenges to their actions will fail in the federal courts because they are simply following SCOTUS rulings. This week also saw a battle for the post of Senate majority leader with senators John Thune, John Cornyn, and Rick Scott in contention. Many conservatives preferred Scott, in part because they believed Thune and Cornyn had acquiesced too often to Mitch McConnells take it or leave it autocratic ways. Thune was selected, doubtless because he seems to have better personal relations and a more engaging style among his colleagues. Clint Brown suggests to those disappointed in the outcome that under Thune reform is coming, that Thune has promised that senators will now have the right to amend, cut, and change legislation and vote on specific provisions of bills until they reach agreement. That means voters, too, will have a possibility for greater input and senators will be more accountable to constituents. Much debate has involved the ability of the president to get his nominees confirmed. He wants them in office as soon as possible, and to keep the FBI from holding them up has even engaged private security officers instead of the FBI, to vet some of them. (Any criticism of this, which he has a right to do, should be countered by the fact that the FBI did the security checks on the Iranian agents and assets which permeate the Biden administration, along with the sabotaging of Trump's prior administration by the FBI.) Will we see long drawn-out contentious confirmation hearings? Will the president find a way to make recess appointments? Can he place his nominees in acting slots prior to confirmation? I dont know. I do know Id never bet against Trump getting what he goes for. In my view Mark Halperin, who is usually right on the mark respecting predictions of political behavior, says that even the two most controversial of the nominees -- Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and Matt Gaetz -- will be confirmed. Because for one thing, every Republican senator has constituents, donors, staff, family members in some cases, who want jobs in the Trump administration. Self-interest. Its what wins elections and congressional battles. State legislators and other officials and citizens need to strongly support the efforts of hundreds of citizens living in five states who are demanding that their states attorneys general conduct a thorough investigation of alleged crimes committed against their lost loved ones during the recent COVID-19 pandemic. The crimes were allegedly committed by hospital staffs and officials (such as Dr. Anthony Fauci) who promulgated and implemented hospital treatment protocols for COVID patients that included, among other things, the administration of the drug remdesivir. On behalf of aggrieved, justice-seeking families in Florida, Louisiana, and Texas, attorneys have submitted extensive legal briefs supporting requests for the investigations to the attorney general of each state. Requests for investigation supported by legal briefs soon will be submitted to the Oklahoma and Missouri attorneys general. The 26-page Texas legal brief can be viewed here along with other aspects of that filing. Regarding remdesivir, Americans need to be aware of the recent testimony of Dr. David Martin before members of the Oklahoma state Legislature (short video here). His statement is a strong indictment of those who supported and administered remdesivir, a drug publicly known to cause kidney and other organ failure, contributing to or causing a patients death. Defendants of their actions in administering remdesivir will undoubtedly claim that their actions were in accord with the October 2020 FDA Emergency Use Approval (EUA) for remdesivir to be used in treating COVID patients. But because the toxic effects of the drug were widely known prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and because there are serious questions about the validity of the EUA, officials supporting and administering the drug to COVID patients who later died may find themselves charged with first and second-degree murder or involuntary manslaughter at a minimum. Further, these officials will have to explain why they promoted and allowed the continued use of remdesivir when, in November 2020, the World Health Organization recommended against the use of remdesivir in treating COVID-19 patients! Needless to say, all the above needs to be thoroughly investigated to determine if there is probable cause to charge individuals with crimes per a states criminal code. Depending on a states penal code, additional crimes could include aggravated manslaughter, cruelty to persons with infirmities, prohibited racketeering acts, false imprisonment, aggravated battery, and others. The attorneys researching and preparing the legal briefs (each brief requires between 200 and 250 hours of research and documentation) do so on a pro bono basis. Initially supporting their efforts are two organizations, Diamond Mind Foundation and Fight Like A Flynn. (Inquiries about supporting the attorneys can be sent to this author, at gardpgkg@comcast.net.) Finally, on the federal level, there are renewed calls for investigation of Anthony Fauci and possibly others for their involvement in gain-of-function research that led to the development of the COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) virus. This federal investigation, if and when it occurs, should not be confused with the requested state-level investigations of specific alleged crimes committed against citizens living in the respective states. Paul S. Gardiner is a retired Army officer, Vietnam veteran, and avid lover of America. He is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the University of Alabama, and the U.S. Army War College. Image via Pxfuel. The leftist media are excited about a long-ago sexual assault claim an unnamed woman filed against Pete Hegseth. The police refused to press charges, but Hegseth, by then a well-known and wealthy TV personality, paid the woman some money. Hegseth contends that the sex was consensual, that the woman was the aggressor, and that he paid her to make her go away. I may be a lousy feminist here, but knowing how the world works, I think its just as likely that Hegseths version of events is true. That being the case, the entire thing should be disregarded moving forward. I come into this with strong biases. First, although numerous academic articles discount it, gray rape exists. Gray rape happens when young women have consensual sex with someone and then, filled with post-coital regret (and often bullied by feminist friends), claim they were raped. Indeed, some women make a lifestyle out of their alleged victimhood. Reports of campus rapes have often followed this pattern. A classic example of this pattern is what happened to Ben Feibleman. Unsurprisingly, Columbia settled. Image by Gage Skidmore. CC BY-SA 2.0. The reality is that women lie about rape. These are just some examples, some famous, some not. Im also dubious about rape claims when alcohol is involved in social settings. Think of Brock Turner. Turner got blind drunk at a frat party and got entangled with an older woman who crashed the party, also got blind drunk, and then passed out at some point. Significantly, its unknown whether she did so before or during intercourse because she blacked out. Maybe she agreed to sex; maybe she didnt. However, she became Glamours Woman of the Year while Turners life was destroyed. All these gray rape charges make a mockery of actual criminal rape, which is a violent and obviously non-consensual act. Women who have been raped know it. Im also cynical enough to know that wealthy, famous men are targets for rape accusations. They have high-profile careers to protect and the money to buy off accusers...so they do. That gets us to the seven-year-old charges against Hegseth. Here are the publicly available facts. In 2017, Hegseth, already a well-compensated Fox News host, spoke at an event at a hotel in California. He was foolish enough to get publicly drunk (something I hope hes never done since then) and went up to his room with a woman. The woman claims that she was Hegseths minder at the event, and when she heard he was getting pushy at the bar, she went to talk to him and the two women. At that point, the accuser remembers nothing until many hours later, when she was trying to find her own hotel room...where her worried husband was waiting for her. She says thats when she thought maybe she was raped, had a panic attack, and went to an ER, which found semen in her. Hegseths version is that they had consensual sex, after which the woman planned to tell her husband shed fallen asleep in another (presumably female) guests room. Police allegedly have a video showing the woman and Hegseth walking arm-in-arm to his hotel room, so thats one layer of violent coercion that didnt exist. According to the police report, filed four days after the alleged assault, the woman had a bruise on her thigh. Police did not press charges, but the woman and her husband eventually started talking about the matter, leading Hegseth to feel he was being blackmailed ... so he paid. On the known facts, its easy to believe that the woman, whether drunk or sober, forgot her vows when she had the chance to have sex with a handsome, famous guy, backpedaled like crazy when confronted with her husband, and then saw a chance for money. Its also possible that, in a Lena Dunham variation, the woman, having been foolish enough to enter a hotel room with a strange man who did the things men do when they want sex (kissing, stroking, etc.), physically complied and even participated, despite not really wanting to have sex. Her body language radiated consent, no matter what her internal thoughts were. And yes, its possible that Hegseth somehow forced himself on the woman...although I find it strange that, while she claims to have had no memory of the encounter, she did not allege that he gave her a date rape drug. Ive told you my biases: I dont believe all women, I believe too many women destroy rapes real horrors by claiming victimhood to hide regret or push an agenda, and I think men, especially famous men, who get drunk in public are asking for trouble. In the past, people pragmatically knew that men + women + alcohol often ended badly. They protected women with strict behavior rules that, as a byproduct, protected men. With those pragmatic rules gone, skittish senators could use this highly ambiguous scenario to vote against Hegseth. That would be a shame. Hegseth has the potential to be the best Secretary of Defense in modern history because hes a soldier and bureaucratic outsider who will work to save the US military from climate, race, and sex-obsessed wokism. Kamala Harriss catastrophic campaign for president launched on July 21, 2024, when the Democrats unceremoniously dethroned Joe Biden and installed Harris as their nominee. The campaign came to a crashing end on Nov. 5, 2024, lasting only 107 days. In these 107 days, it was reported that the Harris campaign has spent over $1 billion. You read that correctly: the figure is $1 billion. The campaign spent roughly $9.3 million per day. What was the outcome? Harris lost all the swing states, the Electoral College, and the popular vote. She won 382 counties, whereas President Trump won six times more i.e., 2,552 counties. Surprisingly the billion dollars was insufficient for the 107-day campaign. Harriss campaign is over $20 million in debt and is still asking for donations. The billion-dollar question is, where on Earth did the money go? The Washington Examiner and Fox News reported on the Harris campaigns expenditures. One million was paid to Oprah Winfreys production house Harpo for a celebrity-filled event. A marketing agency, Precision Strategies, and the pro-Democrat campaign consultancy called Ethos Organizing also received handsome consultation fees. Another agency, Village Marketing, received over $3.9 million to recruit social media influencers to boost Harris online. Another agency, as Viva Creative, received $1.8 million. An event management firm, Production Management One, based in Maryland, received $1.7 million. Majic Productions, a Wisconsin-based company, received $2.3 million. Handsome payments were also made to firms such as Vox Productions, Temple University, Wizard Studios North, and the Park Hyatt Chicago. The campaign paid over $100 million to various consulting and marketing firms, including Gambit Strategies LLC, DuPont Circle Strategies LLC, and Bully Pulpit Interactive LLC. A six-figure amount was spent for a set for Harriss appearance on the Call Her Daddy podcast. Over $15 million was paid for star-studded campaign events. The campaign paid $4 million to Advanced Aviation to fly on private jets. A host of celebrities helped Kamala Harriss bid for president George Clooney led the coup against Joe Biden. Subsequently, Taylor Swift, Beyonce, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, and Jennifer Lopez publicly endorsed Kamala. As election day neared, Harris received endorsements from A-list celebrities, including some who are known to be reticent about their politics. Its likely that these endorsements were motivated by pecuniary gains. The donors for Harriss campaign range from regular individuals who donated smaller amounts to wealthy Democrats such as George Soros and Michael Bloomberg, who contributed millions. The campaign also received copious dark money, which raises the possibility that it was used as a front for money-laundering. The propaganda wing for the Democrats i.e., the mainstream news media hasnt covered this $1-billion scam very much. In fact, during the elections, the same media claimed that Harriss campaigns raising astronomical amounts was proof that she had momentum. It isnt the first time this has occurred. Hillary Clintons ill-fated 2008 campaign, John McCains failed campaign in 2008, Mitt Romneys unsuccessful 2012 campaign, and Obamas 2013 campaign were expensive affairs, and all ended in debt. But the difference is that these campaigns lasted for more than a year, whereas Kamalas campaign lasted for just over three months. But it proves that Kamalas costly calamity isnt an anomaly, but a norm in D.C. It is time for a revision. A long and complicated omnibus bill is released at midnight, a few hours before the vote in Congress. The leaders of the House and the Senate pressure their members to support the bill, and the president signs the bill to avert a shutdown. The bill, authored by special interests, is complex and boring. Consequently, both the lawmakers who vote for it and the citizens who pay will neither read nor comprehend it. The media avoid covering this because they are part of the establishment, and the issue lacks any drama that gets ratings. Once the funds are accessible, the members of the swamp apply their skills to enrich their cronies and themselves. Lets take the Ukraine war as an example. We hear D.C. lawmakers claim that their first priority is the freedom and security of Ukraine. They pledge to unconditionally and interminably support the war. Citizens may be baffled by this sudden burst of affection in D.C. for the Ukrainians. Dig deeper, and one discovers that these lawmakers have ties with vendors who profiteer from the war. In exchange for their voting yes for the bill, the vendors devise legal means of payback perhaps a lucrative job after retirement. To date, the U.S. has provided more than $183 billion in assistance to Ukraine. Yet Ukraine is nowhere near victory, but it doesnt matter to the lawmakers funding the war, because their war-profiteering cronies are being enriched. This is what must have occurred during the Harris campaign. Once the funds were accessible, special interests took over. They probably knew that Kamala would lose, hence they used the campaign as their expense account and drained it completely. The vendors that received contracts are likely to be linked to Democrat leaders. There will be paybacks. Much like the hypocritical lawmakers who claim to care for Ukraine, all those asking for votes for Kamala, claiming to care for abortion rights, the environment, democracy, etc., were doing so merely for personal enrichment. In the end, like most government initiatives, Kamalas campaign was an unmitigated catastrophe, but the top players are likely to be considerably enriched. For the outside world, those who ran Kamalas campaign and the corrupt lawmakers who funded the Ukraine war appear to be reckless spenders. But they probably made monetary gains that most regular people would take several lifetimes to earn. What is scandalous is that war is funded entirely by U.S. taxpayers while regular people significantly funded Harriss campaign. This is the equivalent of stealing from the less fortunate. This is how a self-serving, self-promoting, and self-preserving eco-system functions. All their projects are over budget, behind schedule, and complete failures. But this is not by accident, but by intention. The purpose of the project was never to fulfill its stated goal, but instead was enrichment. This is why swamp-dwellers who begin their careers in politics with very little in their accounts retire as multi-millionaires. When one hears of Harriss billion-dollar catastrophe, it can cause schadenfreude-driven laughter. When one reads about reckless government spending, such as $3 million spent to study steroid-injected hamster fights, it causes laughter. But the appropriate reaction to the robbery of your funds must not cause giggles, but righteous indignation. The establishments rage against Trump is driven by this fear that Trump will bring an end to this daylight robbery. They hate Trump voters because they empower him to drain the swamp. Trumps Department of Governmental Efficiency (DOGE) is an excellent idea, but it works only when individuals are being inefficient by accident or due to apathy. What is happening here isnt inefficacy, but corruption. The swamp-dwellers are efficient and even innovative, but strictly for initiatives that enable enrichment. The Kamala Scam must be investigated, along with so many other instances of what appears to be wasteful government spending. Draining this swamp will not be easy. It will get ugly and even dangerous. But the journey to paradise usually begins through hell. Image: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0. The Heller, McDonald and Bruen decisions made clear the Second Amendment acknowledges-- does not grant--an individual right to keep and bear arms, a right that does not end at ones property line, and encompasses weaponsnot just firearms--in common use for lawful purposes such as self-defense. Government may not erect arbitrary barriers to the exercise of the right, but because the Supreme Court hasnt absolutely delineated what weapons in common use might be, blue states like Illinois remain determined to disarm Americans, the better to crush them when its time for the glorious revolution. Graphic: X Screenshot Among the most common contemporary targets of anti-liberty/gun cracktivists are assault weapons and high capacity magazines. That there is no such thing as an assault weapon deters them not. Neither does the fact magazine capacity restrictions produce no public safety benefit, and most contemporary handguns and rifles feature magazines of greater than their commonly imposed 10 round capacity. Cracktivists have hit on the most common and popular sporting rifle, the AR-15 family, which since the Vietnam War has featured a standard 30 round magazine, as a particular object of hate. Upholding the narrative, Illinois banned assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. Graphic: a common, semiautomatic, AR-15. Author. An assault weapon is best understood as any scary looking gun cracktivists want to ban. True assault rifles are fully automatic military arms. AR-15s outwardly resemble the military M4 but are like all other semiautomatic arms: they fire one round for each function of the trigger. Dont anti-liberty/gun crackvisits know this? Of course they do, but they also know they have unlimited taxpayer funds for lawsuits which normally take years to wend their way to the Supreme Court and in the meantime, they get to deprive Americans of their rights and even jail and ruin some of their political enemies. Fortunately, U.S. District Court Judge Stephen McGlynn has sided with the Constitution, and overturned the Illinois ban: ... the Court holds that the Plaintiffs have met their burden to demonstrate that the AR-15 and other AR-style weapons are protected Arms within the definition advanced by the Seventh Circuit in Friedman and Bevis. Additionally, the Court holds that the various other assault weapons proscribed by PICA (including AK-type weapons, various semiautomatic shotguns, and what the Government calls submachineguns) are also Arms, as are the thirty-round large capacity magazines and various firearm attachments designated by PICA. To reiterate, all of these weapons, magazines, and attachments are bearable, not dangerous or unusual, and are in common use. Moreover, they are all possessed for lawful self-defense purposes, are either not predominately useful for military service or are dual-use items, and are not possessed for unlawful purposes. Oddly, McGlynn appears to be unaware of the reality of other, related issues: McGlynn, however, concluded that ".50 caliber ammunition and weapons restricted by PICA are not 'Arms' as they are not in common use for self-defense" and therefore "Illinois can lawfully ban .50 caliber weapons and ammunition." along with belt-fed weapons and grenade launchers. Banning arms because of their caliber is an odd way to run a judiciary. The .50 BMG round and rifles that fire it are also in common use for sporting purposes, though not for self-defense. The cartridge and its rifles are also clearly dual use. Does this mean the common .45-70 cartridge commonly used in lever action rifles might be banned? Is bullet diameter the determining factor? Cartridges like the .50 Beowolf will function in an AR with an appropriate magazine and upper receiver. In the meantime, Illinois has already appealed the decision, so the long journey to the Supreme Court continues, though there may be a shortcut: While the nearly half-dozen lawsuits challenging PICA [the Illinois ban] are moving to the Seventh Circuit, the Supreme Court will be considering granting cert to a lawsuit challenging Maryland's ban on "assault weapons" next month, and McGlynn's decision may also prove persuasive to the justices. If the Court does grant cert in Snope v. Brown we could see a decision released sometime next year, and it's entirely possible that by next Thanksgiving "assault weapon" bans will officially be unconstitutional; not just in Illinois and Maryland, but in all 50 states. The Illinois ban, like the decade-long Clinton gun ban, has, and will, do nothing for public safety. Chicago alone has a criminal violence problem like that of third world war zones, virtually none of which involves assault weapons, and less than none involve .50 caliber firearms. Attribute that part of McGlynns decision to an all-too common lack of gun knowledge among legislators and judges. That will be an issue for the Supreme Court to resolve after more all-encompassing liberties are secured. One positive, constitutional, thing at a time. Mike McDaniel is a USAF veteran, classically trained musician, Japanese and European fencer, life-long athlete, firearm instructor, retired police officer and high school and college English teacher. He is a published author and blogger. His home blog is Stately McDaniel Manor. The election of Donald Trump has set off panic in the Harris/Biden government. Denizens of the FBI and DOJ, particularly upper-level apparatchiks, are reportedly seeking fast, pre-January 20, exits. Why would powerful, selfless public servants, people whose only concern is for the rule of law and equal justice under the law, people who honor their oaths to honor and defend the Constitution and who live to protect Americans from actual criminals and real threats to national security, flee as from a pestilence at the looming second term of Trump? Because a great many of them arent selfless public servants. Far too many are political thugs who have dishonored the traditions of their agencies, abandoned the Constitution, abused their power, and committed innumerable violations of law as they willingly, gleefully pursued the political enemies of Democrats/socialists/communists (D/s/cs) and the Deep State. They know Trump is really going to drain the swamp this time. He wont need to engage in political prosecutions. There wont be any show me the man and Ill show you the crime communist barbarity. They know exactly how many actual crimes theyve committed, and Americans can be certain government document shredders and home fireplaces are working overtime destroying evidence. Theyre erecting defenses, including the the President has no business or authority to tell the DOJ what to do defense. The media, most notably CNN, was pushing that narrative on election night: Graphic: X Screenshot Can that possibly be true? Is the DOJ, part of the Executive branch of government, independent of the President? Does he have no power to influence its operation and decisions? Are appointed and hired employees of the DOJ superior in power to the President? Lets examine Article II, Section I of the Constitution: The executive power shall be vested in a President of the United States of America. Thats all executive power. Thats power no other constitutional officer has. Theres no power sharing. The President has complete power over the entire Executive branch, which includes the DOJ. He also bears ultimate responsibility and accountability for the exercise of that power. As the screenshot by Mark Paoletta, a former Trump Administration official likely to have a role in the new Administration, notes (take the link to read the entire, lengthy X post), CNN and the DOJ is trying to gaslight Americans. There is no wall of separation between the President and the DOJ: There are many examples going back to our Founding, with George Washington, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson vigorously directing prosecutors to initiate or drop specific cases. In recent times (after Nixon), there are many examples, such as Reagan directing DOJ to drop an antitrust prosecution against a British airline (over DOJs objection), and George H.W. Bush directing DOJ to move into overdrive to bring federal civil rights criminal charges against LAPD officers in Rodney King incident. The President has a duty to supervise the types of cases DOJ should focus on and can intervene to direct DOJ on specific cases. He is the duly elected chief executive and he has every right to make sure the executive branch, including the DOJ, is implementing his agenda. For example, the President could direct DOJ to significantly increase resources to prosecute criminals at the highest charging level and to seek maximum sentences, devote maximum resources to deporting illegal aliens, act against sanctuary cities who defy and obstruct federal law enforcement efforts, and seek restoration of death penalty in all possible cases for horrific crimes, including for drug trafficking and child molestation and rape. It's reasonable to argue any President should avoid micro-management of the DOJ. Appearances matter, and Americans like to believe the DOJ, FBI and the rest of government are their hired hands, not political operatives bent on destroying the enemies of the party in power. They havent been able to believe that for years. Easily since the Obama Administration, the DOJ and FBI have been blatantly used as D/s/c Praetorian Guards. During the Harris/Biden years, they pursued Donald Trump with a berserk vengeance. They surveilled and harassed parents at school board meeting, harried Christians, sought to deny Americans their First and Second Amendment rights, lied to federal judges and generally ran amok. Thats why they so fear the return of Trump. Their consciencesto whatever degree they retain themare epically guilty. As Paoletta ironically quoted Joe Bidenand innumerable other D/s/cs who so ruthlessly pursued Donald Trump, no one is above the law. Until Trumps reelection, they knew damned well they were above the law. The law was whatever they said it was, and they wielded it like a blunt weapon. Theres a new sheriff in town and hes going to weild a legal scalpel to cut out the cancer. It cant happen soon enough. Mike McDaniel is a USAF veteran, classically trained musician, Japanese and European fencer, life-long athlete, firearm instructor, retired police officer and high school and college English teacher. He is a published author and blogger. His home blog is Stately McDaniel Manor. Donald J. Trumps decisive electoral victory in the November 5, 2024 election has, in all probability, ended the Obama era. For all intents and purposes, Obama served three terms as president. A Harris victory on November 5 would have extended Obamas reign as a de facto president for another four years. Obamas chartered policy for the Middle East was detrimental to Israel. It began with his 2009 appeasement tour of Egypt, where he apologized for America and sought solidarity with the Muslim world. His appeasement of Americas enemies, mainly the radical theocratic Islamic Republic of Iran and its proxies, continued throughout his presidency. Joe Biden pursued the same soft approach that sought to bring the Iranians to the negotiating table in order to resuscitate the 2015 nuclear deal that Trump had dumped in his first term as president. Whereas Biden sought de-escalation in the Middle East by exercising U.S. restraint in the face of Iranian aggression, President Trump, though seeking to stay away from conflicts in the Middle East, believes that a strong military posture is the best defense, serves as a deterrence, and is the best way to prevent wars. American deterrence, during the last four years under Biden and Harris, has been dangerously diminished and has provoked Americas enemies, Iran in particular, to attack U.S. bases in Syria and Iraq through its proxies, essentially with impunity. The Biden administrations reaction to the attacks on Western and American shipping in the Red Sea by the Houthis (one of Irans proxies) was pitifully weak and indecisive. To his credit, however, Biden reacted immediately after the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel by sending a naval task force to the eastern Mediterranean. The incoming Trump administration may not be as pro-Israel this time around as it was during his first term. However, his significant Evangelical Christian supporters will counter any contentious actions taken against Israel, as Obama did, and as Biden did, by withholding certain arms supplies to Israel and threatening an embargo. Trump appeared last September at the Israeli-American Summit in Washington, where he bemoaned the lack of Jewish-American support despite of all that he had done for Israel. Yet it was the Jewish vote in Pennsylvania that tipped the balance in his favor and secured his election victory. Most Israelis expressed relief at Trumps victory, recognizing that President Biden and particularly Kamala Harris were hamstrung by the pro-Hamas radical leftist Democrats in the U.S. Congress. Unlike the ineffectiveness of the Biden/Harris administration in dealing with the head of the snake namely, Iran Trumps maximum pressure campaign bankrupted Iran and caused it to cut down its support for its proxies. In his second term, Trump must add a credible military threat to the economic pressure. Irans recent attempt to assassinate Trump will, more than likely, incentivize Trump to be even tougher on the ayatollahs. The Biden administration's clamoring to return to the nuclear deal with Iran and its insistence on old paradigms regarding the Palestinian issue led to negative results. Palestinians became further entrenched in their refusal to negotiate and continued inciting their public and funding terror (widely referred to as Pay for Slay). Hamas and Hezballah hoped American pressure to end the war would cause Israel to abandon its objectives, causing regional states, including some who signed the Abraham Accords, to question warming relations with Israel. Not coincidentally, there were no additional Arab states that joined the peace circle during Biden's administration. In the mindset of the Gulf Arab, especially among the leadership, Trump is seen as the strong horse, a leader who is decisive and determined to win, especially in dealing with Iran. This stance will likely convince the Saudis to reconsider joining the Abraham Accords and conclude a peace deal with Israel. Although Trump declared during his campaign that he would seek quick ends to the wars in Gaza and Lebanon, he is certain to recognize the need for the complete defeat of Hamas and Hezballah and the restoration of Israeli deterrence. Otherwise, the region will be condemned to recurring wars. Trump understands that only a clear victory for Israel will bring long-term stability and quiet to the region. A decisive victory for Israel, bolstered by U.S. support, would also enhance American influence in the region and would signal to the Saudis and others that the U.S. is a trustworthy ally. Effecting a regime change in Iran, unthinkable under the Obama and Biden administrations, will not be dismissed as such by Trump. Cooperating with the Netanyahu government in the destruction of Irans regime assets, including military, nuclear, and oil facilities, would boost the probability of the Iranian people rising up against the ayatollahs in order to get rid of the hated, repressive, and failed regime. Hopefully, Trump understands that there will never be peace in the Middle East region as long as the worlds leading terror-sponsoring regime in Tehran remains in power. The Trump administration will undoubtedly be generous toward the people of Iran once they have ushered in a new democratic regime. With wokeness out of the American governing system, American foreign policy under Trump can reward Americas allies and cease to appease its enemies. A new era of peace through strength may well be on the horizon. Image via U.S. National Archives. Frenzied speculations about Donald Trumps various Cabinet appointees have extended to the next head of the USDA, to replace the controversial Tom Vilsack, AKA Mr. Monsanto. At least fifteen potential nominees are currently the subject of appointee chatter in blogs and headlines, but one stands out as a peculiar outsider-in-chief: Kentucky congressman Thomas Massie. Congressman Massie is an unexpected nominee for secretary of agriculture, given his sometimes less than supportive posture toward Donald Trump. Yet his popularity with libertarians and food rights activists, distrustful that another Vilsack will be visited upon them, resonates with the hopeful aspirations of MAHA (Make America Healthy Again). Many view Massie as the top candidate if the MAHA agenda is to be credibly attempted. Massie fits the MAHA bill. Living off-grid and raising beef cows, the bold but soft-spoken congressman advocates for raw milk and introduced the PRIME Act, which would expand opportunities for local livestock farmers to sell their meats within their own states. Most other candidates instead hail from large industrial agricultural or worse corporate employment with the very industries Republicans claim have captured the regulatory agencies overseeing food. Non-Massie candidates include Trump donors and loyalists who may not be committed to ensuring quality local foods by way of industry shake-up. Zippy Duvall is a Georgia farmer, but his production of 750,000 chickens a year is hardly small-scale farming. His pro-industry American Farm Bureau presidency is a minus, not a plus, for food quality watchers. Candidate Aurelia Skipwith Giacometto began her career at Monsanto in 2006, working her way up to sustainable agriculture partnership manager. For the food-focused, Monsantos sustainable agriculture is as oxymoronic as Charles Manson running a battered womens shelter, or Jim Jones peddling soft drinks. And potential agriculture secretary Ted McKinney worked for 19 years with Dow AgroSciences and 14 years with Elanco, a subsidiary of Eli Lilly and Company not a good MAHA look. Self-styled lunatic farmer Joel Salatin thrust Massies name into the potential USDA leadership limelight in a November 6 blog post that gushed hopefully: My favorite congressman, Thomas Massie from Kentucky, has agreed to go in as Secretary of Agriculture. ... He's been the sponsor of the PRIME ACT, which, if pushed through, would be the biggest shot across the bow of the entrenched industrial meat processing system we've seen in a century. Let liberty ring. Wouldn't that be a change of fortune for Big Ag? Massie has signaled his willingness to consider serving as secretary of agriculture. Still, a recent canvass of potential picks by Politico ignored the Kennedy MAHA favorite and considered only the politics-as-usual suspects. Politicos coverage reveals the industry resistance addressed by Salatin: [Trump] faces a major question over how much influence hell allow Robert Kennedy Jr. to have at the Agriculture Department, given Kennedys antipathy to broad swathes of agribusiness. Politically powerful, conservative-leaning agriculture groups are eager for Trump to slash regulations. But some of Kennedys biggest goals to ban or limit certain farming practices and unhealthy foods would require Trump to implement an entire regime of new regulations. This question of giving Kennedy promised reign over the MAHA agenda weighs heavily on the president-elects USDA pick, which will signal his willingness to truly upset the bureaucratic apple cart rather than just promote donor-loyalists or career bureaucrats. Massie represents policy change that Amish farmers and MAHA libertarians (and swaths of both Democrat and Republican voters who prioritize clean food) can genuinely believe in. However, Politico is either mistaken or dissembling: industrial agriculture groups are the worlds largest food manufacturers seated at the WEF pushing for more regulations to compel people to eat their chemical-dependent food wares globally. The push for reduced regulations at USDA comes not from industrial giants but from grassroots homesteaders, raw milk foodies, local farmers who want to process and sell grass-fed meats, and consumers who are tired of Big Ag and Big Food dominating the USDA, FDA, and EPA. Furthermore, Kennedys biggest goals for food would not require an entire regime of new regulations simply reducing the massive federal subsidies currently allocated to the nations largest GMO crops. This is something Big Ag most definitely does not want to occur, and that a libertarian like Massie might be most inclined to implement. So where will Thomas Massie land in the USDA weigh-in? He is the top pick for libertarians, food rights activists, Kennedy fans, and MAHA watchers. America will soon see whether Donald Trump will choose a MAHA voice for USDA right out of the appointment gate or disappoint with a big-business-as-usual selection, perhaps an ultra-processed Ms. Monsanto. Attorney-farmer John Klar hosts the Small Farm Republic Substack and podcast from his Vermont farm. His recent book is Small Farm Republic: Why Conservatives Must Embrace Local Agriculture, Reject Climate Alarmism, and Lead an Environmental Revival. Image via Pixabay. What is it about leftist media personalities, Trump derangement syndrome, and a propensity for hoaxes? Whoopi Goldberg tried to pull a Smollett on a humble Staten Island bakery in the wake of the Nov. 5 election outcome, claiming they refused to make her a dessert because they didn't like her politics. According to local television station PIX11: GREAT KILLS, Staten Island (PIX11) Whoopi Goldberg claimed that a historic bakery on Staten Island wouldnt fill a dessert request that shed made because the business didnt like her politics. The owner of the bakery, Holtermanns, said that a major maintenance issue at the business had prevented it from filling any large orders, like Goldbergs, at that time. Now, people from across Staten Island and way beyond have stepped up to show support for Holtermanns, and, they said, to send a message of disapproval to Goldberg. The comedienne, actress and host of the talk show The View sparked controversy on the show on Wednesday when she showcased a large tray of what Goldberg called her mothers favorite dessert. Its called Charlotte Russe. Its a small, individual piece of cake with raspberry curd, wrapped in decorative paper, and topped with whipped cream with a maraschino cherry on top. It was weird stuff because up until now, it's been leftists throwing Republicans out of restaurants for their politics, as happened to President Trump's then-press secretary, Sarah Huckabee. Was Whoopi's phony charge plagiarized from the actual acts of leftists? It was obnoxious in the extreme, as it smeared the restaurant as politically hateful, refusing to fill a large order and the money that would come of it, all to make a political statement. Worse still, it wasn't true. Was Whoopi trying to damage this bakery's business with its other customers, all because the island went nearly solid red for Trump. I am surprised she even knew about the place, let alone set foot on the island, which isn't a celebrity redoubt, though I suppose it's possible. Jussie Smollett sought to draw sympathy for himself by smearing Trump supporters as wicked thugs, Oprah Winfrey once falsely claimed that a Swiss boutique refused to sell her a purse on racism grounds when she showed up outside store hours, and now Whoopi Goldberg, sick with Trump Derangement Syndrome, pulled this. The bakery owner and the local pols in the area bit back: Calls grow to fire Whoopi Goldberg from The View after she falsely defamed a bakery saying they refused to serve her because of her liberal beliefs. The bakery has slammed the TV star for making up a story that they refused to serve her, when in fact they couldnt serve her or pic.twitter.com/ciFCOjH7vF Oli London (@OliLondonTV) November 16, 2024 Their equipment broke down and they couldn't fill anyone's order, they credibly said. It had nothing to do with politics. Now the public has rallied around them. That tells us it's not the same world as it was back when Oprah was claiming the Swiss store wouldn't serve her. The little guys are standing up for themselves, almost as a statement of Trump-like courage spreading. Now there are calls to get rid of Whoopi. In a season when studio executives are firing a lot of leftists in the post-election period, that's not an auspicious time for something as mean-spirited as this to be coming from Whoopi. Image: Twitter screen shot Freddy Douglas admitted his emotions got the better of him as he became the youngest Scotland debutant in more than 60 years when he came off the bench in Saturdays nine-try 59-21 victory over Portugal. The 19-year-old back-rower was a surprise inclusion in Gregor Townsends squad for this months Autumn Series despite never having previously played a competitive game at club level. Douglas, who had loads of family and friends in attendance, was tearful during the anthems ahead of his first ever senior outing. He came on in the 66th minute to replace fellow debutant Ben Muncaster and become the youngest player capped by Scotland since Donald White in 1963. White, incidentally, was at Murrayfield on Saturday. Freddy Douglas (cap 1234) today became Scotland's youngest capped male player since Donald White (cap 715) in 1963. Here they are together #AsOne pic.twitter.com/YbmG9RXptN Scottish Rugby (@Scotlandteam) November 16, 2024 Its obviously amazing that Ive managed to get this opportunity, but I dont think age is really what matters, said Douglas. If youre good enough, youre old enough. I was so excited being in the squad and wanted to get on as soon as I could but just being in the atmosphere of Murrayfield, it felt so amazing. When I eventually did get on, it was the best feeling of my life. I remember going on, hugging Benny, that felt amazing. The big thing I remember is just the anthem, singing in front of so many people for my country. I got quite emotional during it and its something Ill never, ever forget. Douglas admitted his rapid ascent to the full Scotland squad had been surreal but he felt he had slotted in well. Obviously, playing and training with my heroes growing up, its all been a bit crazy, he said. But theyve all been so welcoming and its not felt like Im the youngest or that Im not meant to be here. Douglas had been branded world-class by Scotland forwards coach John Dalziel in the lead-up to the Portugal match, but the back-rower played down that billing. Yeah, I heard about that and Im obviously buzzing, but hopefully I can just keep working and eventually get to world-class, he said. Douglas is keeping his feet on the ground after his debut and not taking it for granted that his career will suddenly take off at club and international level. Hopefully it does kick off, but Im not expecting anything, he said. I just want to keep playing my rugby and hopefully get further later. Scotland have two fixtures next weekend, an A fixture against Chile on Saturday and Sundays Test against Australia, so Douglas is hoping for more game time. Arron Reed scores Scotlands eighth try against Portugal (Jane Barlow/PA) Were really lucky in the fact that weve got two fixtures next week, so theres double the amount of players that get an opportunity, he said. Im really looking forward to hopefully another one. Townsend made 14 changes for Saturdays match and it proved to be a big occasion for several players. Edinburgh back-rower Muncaster and Glasgow lock Alex Samuel also made their debuts while Leicester prop Will Hurd and Sale wing Arron Reed, who scored a double, both marked their first Murrayfield appearances with tries. Stand-in skipper Stafford McDowall also scored along with Josh Bayliss, Jamie Bhatti and Jamie Dobie while Darcy Graham scored a stunning solo effort to move level with Duhan van der Merwe on 29 at the top of Scotlands all-time try-scoring list. Darcy Graham breaks free to score Scotlands fourth try (Jane Barlow/PA) Darcys electric, isnt he? said Glasgow centre McDowall. Hes so good and when he picked up the ball I kind of had a feeling he was going to go straight through and score. It was maybe a shame we couldnt feed him for one more I think thats the record tied now isnt it? They (Graham and Van der Merwe) will be fighting it out next week. The Prime Minister said his focus is delivering a better future for Britain as he set off for the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Sir Keir Starmer said: My focus at the G20 summit this week is delivering for the British people. More jobs, more prosperity, more security. A better future for our country. The Prime Minister will be discussing how to strengthen the UKs economy and get investment into country as well as security issues, he said in an Instagram video posted from the flight to Brazil. The G20, or Group of Twenty, meets to discuss global economic and political issues with discussions likely to include Ukraine, conflict in the Middle East and environmental issues. He plans to talk to his counterparts about illegal migration and energy independence. Lets be clear these global problems are connected. A world of deeper conflicts and catastrophic climate change would lead to even greater waves of migration and a fatal blow economic growth. So we must be strong to protect Britain from that future. We should look out to the world now with confidence buoyed by strong alliances, ready to stand up for our principles, Sir Keir wrote in an article for The Sunday Express. France, Germany and Italy as well as China, India and Mexico are among the G20 nations. It will be one of the last outings on the world stage for US President Joe Biden before Donald Trump enters the White House in January. Sir Keir Starmer has said he is absolutely confident that the vast majority of farms and farmers will not be affected by changes to inheritance tax announced in the Budget. The row over the taxes for farms worth more than 1 million has rumbled on as the Prime Minister said on Sunday that the money the Government has put into the sector is not to be overlooked. A protest is expected in Westminster on Tuesday as farmers rally on Whitehall against the changes announced in last months Budget, while separately the National Farmers Union will hold a mass lobby of MPs in their efforts to get the Government to rethink. Speaking to reporters on the way to the G20 summit in Brazil, Sir Keir said it is very important that we support farmers but he is confident most will not be affected by the changes. Farmers will stage more protests (Owen Humphreys/PA) Asked whether he accepted that farmers feel betrayed, the Prime Minister said: I think it is very important that we support farmers. Thats why weve put 5bn in the Budget for the next two years into farming. That is not to be overlooked, he said, and also pointed to other cash that has been set aside in relation to flooding and disease outbreaks. He added: Obviously, theres an issue around inheritance tax and I do understand the concern. But for a typical case, which is parents with a farm they want to pass on to one of their children, by the time youve taken into account not only the exemption for the farm property itself, but also the exemption for spouse to spouse, then parent to child, its 3 million before any inheritance tax will be payable. Thats why I am absolutely confident the vast majority of farms and farmers will not be affected by this. The rally on Tuesday will hear from celebrities and farming leaders while a procession to Parliament Square will be spearheaded by children on toy tractors. Organisers have told those coming that they should not bring their farm machinery. On Sunday, the head of the farming union said that farmers are feeling betrayed about the changes to inheritance tax. National Farmers Union president Tom Bradshaw told Sky News: I think the industry is feeling betrayed, feeling angry. He added: We have a Government saying food security is a critical part of national security, yet theyve ripped the rug out from that very industry which is going to invest in food security for the future. Farmers have reacted with anger and dismay over the inheritance tax changes for farming businesses, which limit the 100% relief for farms to only the first 1 million of combined agricultural and business property. For anything above that, landowners will pay a 20% tax rate, rather than the standard 40% rate of inheritance tax (IHT) applied to other land and property. Treasury data shows that around three-quarters of farmers will pay nothing in inheritance tax as a result of the controversial changes. However, farmers have challenged the figures, pointing instead to data from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs which suggests 66% of farm businesses are worth more than the 1 million threshold at which inheritance tax will now need to be paid. Baroness Mallalieu, a Labour peer and the president of the Countryside Alliance, has said the changes smell of incompetence. She told BBC Radio 4s Westminster Hour: There was no impact assessment done. The figures differ between the Treasury and Defra, and certainly differ from those of the NFU. But I hope what they will do is look at it very carefully, and just see what the unintended consequences were. If they wanted to deal with people who buy farmland not intending to farm themselves but to avoid tax, then fair enough to bring them within the tax threshold. But what theyve done is to bring in a lot of people who they never really contemplated or thought of as being involved. And its really small farms, she said. She said the Government could make changes to the policy without a U-turn. It could be done by looking at the whole thing properly, just seeing how it works, raising the threshold or maybe giving it a longer run-in this does smell of incompetence, its very, very depressing. MPs are set to vote on plans to legalise assisted dying on Nov 29 - Peter Dazeley/Photodisc The assisted dying bill risks opening the door to non-voluntary euthanasia, the former chief coroner has warned. Ahead of a free vote on assisted dying at the end of the month, Thomas Teague KC, who served as Chief Coroner of England and Wales from 2020 to 2024, said in a new report that safeguards promised by supporters of the bill will not hold if it passes through the commons at the end of the month. MPs are set to vote on plans to legalise assisted dying for mentally competent, terminally ill adults with the approval of two doctors and a judge on Nov 29. But a landmark new report by the Policy Exchange think tank has warned the bill risks leading to a slippery slope of unintended consequences. In the report, Mr Teague writes: Many of the safeguards promised by its supporters amount to nothing more than arbitrary restrictions, with no rational foundation. Reason demands their removal, propelling an irreversible expansion of scope that has already taken place in the Netherlands and elsewhere. This process is as logically inexorable as it is empirically inevitable, for the very arguments relied upon to justify physician-assisted suicide would also support the introduction of voluntary and, ultimately, non-voluntary euthanasia. Last week, a dozen human rights barristers and legal experts warned that the scope of assisted dying in Britain could be rapidly expanded because of the countrys membership of the European Convention on Human Rights. Dame Esther Rantzens daughter Rebecca Wilcox visits Parliament Square to support campaigners seeking to legalise assisted dying - Michael Leckie/PA Media Assignments/PA Under the convention, they warned it could be ruled that denying assisted deaths to some groups and not others is discriminatory, leading to a huge expansion of legal death under human rights law. The Policy Exchange reports findings are supported by Mr Teague along with former Supreme Court Justice Lord Sumption, former Attorney General Dominic Grieve and former chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission Baroness ONeill. Paralympian Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson has called the report required reading for MPs, adding: Parliamentarians should be in no doubt that a change to this law would fundamentally alter the political and societal landscape for disabled people. Lord Sumption said: The lesson of this paper is that medically assisted suicide arouses strong feelings, and strong feelings make for muddled thinking and moral confusion. The reports main author, John Keown, Rose Kennedy Chair in the Kennedy Institute of Ethics at Georgetown University, said the legalisation of assisted dying in Canada provides a revealing and ongoing illustration of the slippery slope. Assisted dying for the terminally ill was first introduced in Canada in 2016 and its scope has rapidly expanded since. In 2021, disabled people were given the option to end their own lives and people with mental health conditions are set to join them by 2027. Free vote The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill is making its way through parliament, but many MPs are still undecided about their voting intentions. Because it is a free vote, MPs do not have to vote in line with the political party whips. The government has adopted a position of neutrality on the passage of the bill, with ministers asked by the Cabinet Secretary not to share their personal views in public. If the bill becomes law, assisted dying in the UK would become legal for terminally ill adults under certain circumstances. Kim Leadbeater, the Labour MP who tabled the legislation as a private members bill, has said it will provide the strictest safeguards anywhere in the world. However, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has been vocal in his opposition and warned that the NHS might be forced to make cuts elsewhere if it had to administer an assisted dying programme. This is despite the fact that he previously voted for assisted dying when it was last in parliament in 2015. Labours former interim leader Baroness Harman said Mr Streetings comments had crossed the line following the cabinets instructions to remain neutral. The Justice Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, has also publicly opposed the bill because of her unshakeable belief in the sanctity and the value of human life. The Prime Minister has said he is still undecided and the Cabinet is thought to be privately divided on the issue. A man reads a 'dying wish' tied to a tree near the Houses of Parliament by a group of terminally ill people and bereaved relatives, in Parliament Square, central London. Photograph: James Manning/PA Charles Falconer: The current law has been abandoned. The director of public prosecutions (DPP) will not prosecute those motivated by compassion as long as they are not healthcare professionals, despite the fact they are committing a crime to which they have no defence, with a maximum of 14 years in prison. This half-law brings unnecessary suffering. People fear death because they cannot control its timing or form, and the medical profession cant help. People go to Switzerland to die earlier than they want, often alone. Those who cannot afford or do not have the energy to go to Switzerland take steps like hoarding pills to take their own lives, often alone to protect their loved ones. People can suffer horribly in their final illness because the doctor cannot provide help for them to end the agony, when it is conspicuously the compassionate course. Those who love them who do help often face an investigation and then an agonising wait as the DPP decides whether they are to be prosecuted. The terminally ill should have a choice. If they want help they should be given it. Most wont. There need to be safeguards to ensure that there is no pressure to have an unwanted assisted death. Kim Leadbeaters terminally ill adults (end of life) bill, published on Tuesday, contains robust safeguards better than anywhere else in the world: two doctors and a high court judge have to be satisfied that the choice is freely made by someone with capacity to make that choice. Countries where there are assisted dying laws for the terminally ill show that these laws do not lead to cases of coercion. The safeguards work. The inadequacy of palliative care in some parts of those countries does not lead to reluctant early deaths. Rather it leads to less fear and suffering. And to an improvement in palliative care. I dont think the bills safeguards would reliably detect if someone was being coerced Sonia Sodha Kims law does not extend to people who are suffering unbearably through some chronic condition but are not terminally ill. Her law is only for those who are dying within six months. Throughout the world, up to 300 million people have assisted dying laws. Where those laws start with terminal-illness-only provisions, that is where they stick. There is no slippery slope. That slippery slope occurs where the law is an unbearable-suffering law, and what constitutes unbearable suffering becomes a difficult line to draw. That is not this case. Our courts have made crystal clear that it is for our parliament to decide the ambit of an assisted dying law. Kims law with pre-assistance safeguards is a safer, more compassionate law than the current one. Parliament should make the change. Sonia Sodha: You set out the case very powerfully and, like you, Im hugely sympathetic to those with terminal conditions who want medically assisted suicide to be legalised. I can think of situations where Id want it for myself. But parliament shouldnt legislate unless its confident it can be done safely. I dont believe this bill achieves that. Im not sure we can prevent people choosing assisted suicide because they feel they are a burden or would rather pass money on to their kids than spend it on care. Even more concerning, I dont think the bills safeguards approval by two doctors and a high court judge would reliably detect if someone was being coerced, pressured or nudged into killing themselves. Coercive control can be extremely difficult to identify, including by victims. High court judgments show family judges sometimes fail to investigate coercive control even where its alleged, which it may not always be in assisted-dying situations. Its difficult to prove coercive behaviour in the criminal courts. Busy doctors arent well placed to detect coercive control. If a doctor has no concerns, on what basis would a judge investigate? What if one adult child suspects their sick parent is in a coercive relationship with another adult child: how would they raise their concerns with the court, what resources would they need to do so, and what if they dont find out their parent has opted for assisted suicide until its too late? The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that one in six older people experience abuse. In Oregon there is widespread acceptance that its assisted dying law has worked well Charles Falconer I worry that limiting assisted suicide to those with terminal conditions with less than six months to live is more subjective than might appear. In Oregon, doctors who controversially regard anorexia as sometimes terminal have approved assisted dying for patients, to the horror of survivors who say doctors can give up too easily on them. Predicting life expectancy is a guesstimate. Some doctors could apply these criteria expansively on what basis should a judge intervene? Experienced KCs believe the bill could be subject to expansion by the courts via discrimination-based challenges under the European Convention on Human Rights. These are just some of the substantial risks that worry me. As Wes Streeting highlighted this week, NHS resources are regrettably limited. Better palliative care cant make death easier for everyone, but it could for many. While 300 people a day are estimated to die without the palliative care they need, I think this should be the priority. CF You are hugely sympathetic to those with terminal conditions who want to be medically assisted to take their own life. Your reservation is that parliament should only legislate where it can be done safely. And your concerns are that people will be pressured into an assisted death either by feeling a burden or from being pressured, whether by coercive control or otherwise. A significant number of countries have had assisted dying legislation for the terminally ill, some for more than a quarter of a century. Fears such as you express were expressed there before introduction. But they have not been realised. There is no evidence that in those countries people are being pressured. Kims bill has more safeguards here than anywhere else. Oregon has had an assisted dying law for the terminally ill for 27 years. Many doctors were opposed before introduction. Now there is widespread acceptance that it has worked well and people are not being coerced. Is that because the authorities are not picking up coercion? I very much doubt it. The people operating the law dont think so. Anyone with experience of terminally ill people will know that for some, becoming dependent on those they love is utterly unbearable. Like everyone, Im in favour of more and better palliative care. Like so many people opposing the bill, you make the false point that its either/or. It isnt. Experience from many countries is that an assisted dying law for the terminally ill leads to improved palliative care because of greater focus on end of life. I welcome your sympathy. There is a real opportunity now to make terminal illness a less horrific experience for a significant number of people. I so hope you will join us in supporting this important reform. SS You say theres no either/or when it comes to legalising medically assisted suicide or addressing the palliative care crisis. Thats not true in a world of limited resources where the NHS is failing to provide tens of thousands of people a year with care that would reduce pain and suffering towards the end of life. Do you agree that unless this is fixed first, people will opt for assisted suicide because they cant access care? If you dont think its an either/or, why havent you and Labour colleagues sought assurances from the chancellor that she will invest the billions a year needed to ensure everyone can access the palliative and social care they require? No doctor should have to tell patients that resource constraints mean they cant alleviate their pain, but they can offer assistance to end their life. This is an important reason why the Association for Palliative Medicine is opposes the bill. Its thought that a third of female suicides could be related to domestic abuse. Domestic abuse campaigners believe there are 130 hidden homicides a year in which women are murdered by a partner or relative, yet their deaths are recorded as accidental or suicide. I know from colleagues the painstaking journalism required to investigate just one of these cases; the idea that the light-touch monitoring we see abroad would capture coercion where it occurs is extraordinarily naive. A review of Oregons monitoring revealed concerning gaps in information. On Thursday the former president of the high court family division, Sir James Munby, published detailed analysis of the bills judicial safeguards and concluded they fall lamentably short. He said: Only those who believe implicitly in judicial omniscience and infallibility can possibly have any confidence in the efficacy of what is proposed and pointed out that, even assuming an application takes only two hours, assisted dying applications would overwhelm the capacity of the family division. On what basis do you disagree with his assessment? CF It is not right to delay correcting the suffering caused by the current law until palliative care has significantly improved across the UK. The Commons select committee on health and social care, which was genuinely neutral on the issue, produced a report in February 2024 charting the course of the jurisdictions which had introduced terminal illness/assisted dying laws. In not one country was there any evidence either of abuse or despair at the lack of palliative care as a driving force. The fact theres been so little pre-legislative consultation, analysis and scrutiny is far from ideal Sonia Sodha You appear to think that assisted dying will be part of domestic abuse. You dismiss the absence of evidence of this from any relevant jurisdiction as extraordinarily naive. The evidence is overwhelming that terminal illness/assisted dying laws relieve the suffering of the dying without being abused. Complaints about those laws focus on safeguarding excluding too many people from assistance. Kims law is the most safeguarded of all. Finally, the views of Sir James Munby that the safeguards are inadequate and would overwhelm the judicial system. Not the conclusion from other, less safeguarded, jurisdictions. Your fears were expressed in all these other countries. They did not come to pass. We should be guided by the best evidence. SS I agree therell always be some people who want medical assistance to end their own lives even if palliative care were as good as it could be; their wishes are important. But the question remains whether it can be legalised safely in a way that doesnt lead to others being coerced or pressured into state-sanctioned suicide. The select committee report was clear it cant provide a definitive answer to a range of questions, including how effective safeguards against coercion are. The one jurisdiction MPs visited was Oregon; like me they expressed concern at incomplete data. More generally, they found hesitation among healthcare professionals about whether its possible to safeguard everyone. Absence of evidence of abuse doesnt constitute evidence that it isnt happening. In Ontario, its been reported that compliance concerns were raised regarding a quarter of assisted suicide providers last year. More international evidence is needed on the effectiveness of safeguards and how we would monitor and investigate coercion in the UK. So many unanswered questions have been posed by doctors and lawyers about the bill: I wonder if we could agree that the fact theres been so little pre-legislative consultation, analysis and scrutiny is far from ideal? And that a better first step would be a royal commission of experts charged with looking at whether and how medically assisted suicide can be legalised safely? This is not a precipitate rush to change. Its a long delayed and necessary reform Charles Falconer CF The question parliament faces is whether to legalise the provision of assistance to take their own life for those who are facing death from a terminal illness. There is no disagreement, certainly between the two of us, that the current law causes huge suffering for many people and those they love because they cannot have that assistance. And there is no disagreement between us that there need to be robust safeguards to prevent abuse. The disagreement appears to be that you are not convinced that the safeguards will be adequate. There is literally no evidence from any jurisdiction where there is a terminal illness/assisted dying law that their safeguards dont work. And by working I mean preventing coercion, and ensuring only patients with capacity receive the assistance. There have been 25 years of these laws in other countries. This is not a precipitate rush to change. Its a long delayed and necessary reform where Kims bill takes the most cautious approach. SS I agree the biggest disagreement between us is on whether safeguards could work in detecting coercion or pressure, and on whether the limits in the bill would be subject to expansion by doctors making subjective judgments, or by the courts responding to discrimination-based challenges. I dont think theres the evidence to support the claim it can be done safely, and I think the burden of proof is on proponents of changing the law to show it doesnt come with very significant risks. Theres no reversing the decision on medically assisted suicide, which is why its paramount parliament only legalises it if its confident the safeguards will work. Despite our disagreement Im grateful for the opportunity to discuss this with you so openly and respectfully, and I hope our readers will find our exchange illuminating regardless of their own views. Joe Biden had feared the use of ATACMS rockets could escalate the war Joe Biden has given approval for Ukraine to strike targets within Russia with US-supplied long-range missiles for the first time. In a major policy shift just weeks before he stands down, the US president signed off on the use of ATACMS rockets within the Kursk region. Mr Bidens decision will raise expectations that he is also set to drop his opposition to the use of British-made Storm Shadow missiles within Russia. Donald Trump, the incoming president, has vowed to scale back support for Ukraine and has said he will push Kyiv to sue for peace with Moscow. David Sacks, a close ally of Elon Musk and major donor to the Trump campaign, criticised the decision as anti-democratic. President Trump won a clear mandate to end the war in Ukraine. So what does Biden do in his final two months in office? Massively escalate it, he wrote on X. Donald Trump Jnr said last night: The Military Industrial Complex seems to want to make sure they get World War 3 going before my father has a chance to create peace and save lives. US officials told The New York Times that Mr Biden had changed his mind after North Korea sent troops to support Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine. The decision comes after Volodymyr Zelensky spent months urging Britain, the US and France to allow him to use long-range missiles on Russian soil. In his evening address on Sunday, Mr Zelensky said the missiles would speak for themselves. Today, many in the media are saying that we have received permission to take appropriate actions, he said. But strikes are not made with words. Such things are not announced. Sir Keir Starmer is known to be in favour of the use of Storm Shadow missiles, as is Emmanuel Macron, the French leader. But Mr Biden, who has a veto because the targeting system for the rockets is US-supplied, has until now resisted pressure to give his consent. Vladimir Dzhabarov, first deputy head of the Russian upper houses international affairs committee, said Washingtons decision to let Kyiv strike deep into Russia could lead to World War Three. Ukraine captured several settlements in the border region of Kursk in a surprise offensive in August, which it is now defending against Russian counter-attacks. Credit: 95th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine American officials said that Mr Biden had been persuaded to authorise ATACMS strikes by the intervention of North Korean troops in the war. There have been reports Pyongyang could send up to 100,000 soldiers to support Russias invasion, which could tip the balance of the conflict. US missiles would initially be used to defend Ukrainian positions in Kursk, the New York Times reported. Mr Biden is said to have been swayed by warnings that Ukrainian forces there would be unable to hold out without extra aerial support. Kyiv has pleaded for the use of long-range missiles so it can target Russian supply lines and command centres, as well as airbases used to launch jets firing glide bombs at its troops. The White House has allowed Ukraine to fire US-supplied Himars rockets, which have a 50-mile range, over the border, but it has prevented the use of the 190-mile ATACMS missiles for fear of escalating the war. Mr Bidens decision comes just two months before Donald Trump is to take office. Mr Trump, who won a landslide victory in the US election, pledged during the campaign to secure an end to the war on his first day in office. He has previously said Ukraine should have made concessions to Putin rather than fighting back against the invasion, launched in February 2022. But he also called the Russian leader earlier this month and urged him not to escalate the conflict further, according to the Washington Post. Ukraine hopes to swap the territory it holds inside Kursk in any peace deal with Russia. However, analysts close to the Kremlin have said that Putin will not begin negotiations until Ukrainian troops have been ousted from his lands. Sir Keir will hope that Mr Bidens decision could unlock the use of Storm Shadow missiles in Ukraine before Mr Trump enters the White House. Downing Street was on Sunday night waiting for full details of the US decision. James Cartlidge, the shadow defence secretary, told The Telegraph: This is a very significant move by the US and one that I very much welcome. I hope this will now lead to Ukraine being granted full freedom of operation for all the weapons theyve been supplied with, including Storm Shadow. Im particularly pleased that the US appear to be responding directly to the supply of thousands of North Korean troops joining the Russian side, confirmed by the US state department this week as being actively engaged in battle in Kursk, a strategic escalation that we have to respond to. Asked about the decision on Sunday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the bodys position was to avoid a permanent deterioration of the war in Ukraine. We want peace, we want fair peace, Mr Guterres said, not elaborating further. Mr Bidens decision will also heap pressure on Germany to drop its opposition to supplying Ukraine with its long-range Taurus missiles, which Mr Zelensky has repeatedly asked for. Joe Biden, the US president, and Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, have disagreed over the use of weapons - Kevin Lamarque/Reuters The Prime Minister and the outgoing US president are expected to meet in Rio de Janeiro this week as both attend the G20 summit. Ahead of the meeting, Sir Keir said he was going to make shoring up support for Ukraine top of my agenda as we go into the G20. He warned: Recently weve seen the addition of North Korean troops working with the Russians, which does have serious implications. I think on the one hand it shows the desperation of Russia, but its got serious implications for European security and for Indo-Pacific security. Thats why I think we need to double down on shoring up our support for Ukraine and thats top of my agenda for the G20. Theres got to be full support for as long as it takes and that certainly is top of my agenda, shoring up that further support for Ukraine. Russia launches huge attack Sir Keir would not be drawn on the potential use of Storm Shadows within Russia, saying that he was not going to get into discussing capabilities. The Prime Minister said he would use the summit to press allies to keep up support for Ukraine as the invasion reaches its 1,000th day. As we mark 1,000 days since Putins illegal invasion of Ukraine, I will be doing all I can to bolster Ukraine as they continue to bravely defend their sovereignty, he said. Under my leadership, the UK will be a responsible actor at a time of increasing volatility in the world, while ensuring our diplomacy delivers for people at home. He added that he had no intention to speak with Putin, who will not be at the summit, with Russia represented by its foreign minister Sergey Lavrov. Olaf Scholz, the German chancellor, has been heavily criticised after he decided to hold a phone call with the Kremlin leader last week. Mr Bidens decision to authorise the use of long-range missiles came just hours after Russia launched one of its largest aerial bombardments of the war. In an attack lasting several hours, the Kremlin launched about 120 missiles and 90 drones against targets across Ukraine, killing at least nine people. Mr Zelensky said the assault was aimed at further crippling his countrys energy grid, which has been relentlessly targeted by Moscow. The enemys target was our energy infrastructure throughout Ukraine, he said. Unfortunately, there is damage to objects from hits and falling debris. The Most Rev Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York, was accused of ignoring 11 safeguarding complaints - Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty The Archbishop of York is under pressure to step down over his handling of child abuse cases in the Church of England. The Most Rev Stephen Cottrell faced calls to resign on Sunday from a survivor who said he is perpetuating a Church cover-up and a former abuse inquiry leader whose work was prematurely disbanded by the Archbishops Council last year. Rev Matthew Ineson, 56, a retired vicar who was abused at 16 by a Bradford priest, said the Archbishop of York failed to hold clergy accountable for mishandling his case. He said: Until there is a complete clean sweep at the top, nothing is going to change. The demands follow the resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev Justin Welby, last week, who was forced to quit over his failure to act on concerns over child abuse committed by evangelical Christian John Smyth. Matthew Ineson, abused at 16 by Bradford priest, has complained of the Archbishop of Yorks failings - Jay Williams Rev Ineson, who has waived his anonymity, was raped as a child in the 1980s by Rev Trevor Devamanikkam. His abuser died by suicide in 2017 before facing court on six sexual offence charges, but an independent Church report later confirmed the abuse occurred. This review also criticised senior clergy, including Lord Sentamu, the former Archbishop of York, for failing to contact the police when Rev Ineson disclosed his abuse to them in 2013. Rev Ineson stated that in 2021, the Most Rev Stephen Cottrell visited him at his home and apologised on behalf of the Church for the abuse he endured and the actions of senior clergy. He said the Archbishop of York had called his predecessor Lord Sentamu out of order and said he fully supported the Bishop of Newcastle Helen-Ann Hartleys decision to suspend him. Last week, Bishop Hartley, the only bishop to have called for the archbishops resignation, shared a letter on X from both archbishops which expressed a desire for Lord Sentamu to resume his ministry. Rev Ineson said: He supported Bishop Helen-Ann in suspending Sentamu, and now he writes a letter going, we want to bring Sentamu back into the fold in that really coercive and bullying letter to her They are just covering up for each other all the time. The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev Justin Welby, who stepped down last week - Richard Heathcote/Getty Dame Jasvinder Sanghera also backed survivors calls for the second most powerful figure in the Church of England to resign. She accused Archbishop Cottrell of ignoring 11 separate safeguarding complaints, some involving leading figures in the Church, including bishops. Dame Jasvinder was one of three chairmen on an independent safeguarding board (ISB) inquiry into Church abuse. The Archbishops Council disbanded the inquiry last year, leaving victims suicidal, with four requiring emergency mental health care. Channel 4 News Dame Jasvinder said the archbishops decision had a devastating impact on survivors: They could have prevented that harm, and they didnt. She claimed the Church has failed to advance the outstanding cases, despite her warning to archbishops some victims might not survive the delay. In one email, I said my concern is that some of them might not be alive this time next year because of the suicidal ideation that they were sharing, she said, adding that, From my perspective, when you are in such a leadership position, like him, he is complicit in the experiences of further causing harm to victims and survivors. Evangelical Christian John Smyth, who committed appalling abuse It comes as the Bishop of Gloucester, the Right Rev Rachel Treweek, said on Sunday anyone thinking of replacing Justin Welby needs their head reading. Bishop Treweek told the BBC that she did not want the very, very difficult job and any bishop thinking about it should look long and hard into the mirror and take some reality checks. A spokesman for the Archbishop of York denied that he had ignored any victims. They said he has always taken Church safeguarding very seriously and believed it requires independent structures and scrutiny, while remaining everyones responsibility. The spokesman added: The archbishop deeply regrets the impact on victims following the disbandment of the ISB, which was a decision taken collectively by the Archbishops Council. This was due to a breakdown in relations with independent members. The spokesman said an independent commissioner was looking into the ISB cases. They added that the letter about reinstating Lord Sentamu reflected conversations that have taken place with the Bishop of Newcastle since his suspension and is not about minimising the impact of anything Lord Sentamu previously said. A Lambeth Palace spokesman supported and echoed the Archbishop of Yorks statement. Lord Sentamu has been approached for comment. Queensland premier David Crisafulli has told LNP members the party does not exist for culture wars. Photograph: Darren England/AAP The Queensland premier, David Crisafulli, has told Liberal National party members the party does not exist for culture wars in an address seeking to stare down potential division about his positions on abortion rights and nuclear power. Crisafullis speech to the LNP state council meeting in Rockhampton on Sunday was his first opportunity to speak directly to the organisational wing, and party members, since last months state election victory. Despite the election success, LNP sources say there remains consternation in the ranks about the way the party handled divisive issues including abortion and nuclear power, where the views of the grassroots membership and the private views of many MPs are at odds with Crisafullis promises not to change existing laws. The premier did not directly mention either issue. But his speech to members hinted at scare campaigns by Labor during the election and said these would not work in four years if the party kept its word. One thing I can guarantee you about me that is my word counts for something and I value a culture when you say youre going to do something you do it, and when you say you wont do something, you wont do it, Crisafulli said. Related: Four Davids and two Nigels: can Crisafulli deliver a modern and inclusive cabinet? | Ben Smee Thats how we keep faith. Thats what were going to do in the next four years What will happen in four years time, the scare campaign that you were all subject to by the Labor party will not work. It wont, it cant. In four years time when we have not done the things we said we wouldnt do Queenslanders will see what its like to have a government where a word counts for something. Crisafulli warned members we wont get everything we want and said winning a second term would require compromise. We dont exist for culture wars, he said. We dont exist to be the strongest in opposition. We exist to bring good government to Queenslanders. We wont get everything we want. There will be times where you have to compromise. Where things are a little bit imperfect. But overall, when you govern, you can embed the kind of things that you want to see for a state. Crisafulli spoke about the federal opposition leader, Peter Dutton, and roused party members to do it one more time at a federal election, due in the first half of next year. The more people know about Peter Dutton, the more they like, Crisafulli said. There is a reason why he has managed to hold a seat, that on the pendulum shouldnt be a Liberal National seat. He keeps winning it because people who know him like him. And I like him. This story was amended on 18 November 2024. A previous version incorrectly stated that no conservative government in Queensland had won a second term in government since 1960. Farmers protesting in Llandudno, Wales, on Saturday. Photograph: Matthew Horwood/Getty Images Far-right groups are seeking to hijack a farmers protest in London against tax changes introduced by the chancellor, Rachel Reeves. Extremists, including close associates of Tommy Robinson, have been using social media to urge supporters to turn up at the protest on Tuesday, as farming leaders sought to remind those attending of their responsibilities. The event is being eyed as a major opportunity for exploitation by the far right, who are seeking to promote Jeremy Clarkson as a hero after he claimed the UK government had a sinister plan to ethnically cleanse farming communities. The former presenter has become a meme on far-right social media accounts as activists and extremist influencers applauded his comments. Nick Griffin, the former leader of the British National party, posted a picture of himself in the broadcasters Oxfordshire pub. Jeremy Clarkson nails it, said Griffin, as he shared Clarksons comments. Related: Nail in the coffin: family farmers respond to inheritance tax changes Paul Thorpe, a far-right YouTuber, published a video message urging his followers to join the protest, stating: Ill be there to support our farming community and I hope as many of you patriots will be there too. Activists from the extremist group Patriotic Alternative have been staging stunts for some time in an attempt to piggyback on farmers concerns. Their rivals in another far-right group, Homeland, have also sought to drum up support on the back of Clarksons comments. Conspiracy theorists are expected to also be out in force to promote a narrative that there is a globalist plot to control food supplies. Trouble has marred similar farmers protests in Europe, including in the Netherlands where police fired shots at tractors. But the organisers of the protest, a group of farmers who fear the changes brought in by Reeves will decimate agricultural businesses, say they want no troublemakers or political point scoring. They said: The organisers remind all attendees of their responsibilities to, not only themselves, but also, the reputation of the farming industry. Trouble will not be tolerated and organisers continue to work closely with the Metropolitan police to ensure the safety of all involved, given the family nature of the event. Olly Harrison, who farms cereals near Liverpool, is one of the organisers of the protest and has nothing to do with the far right, nor do the others behind the event. The event is nonpolitical, he said. We have invited representatives of all political parties to speak and we dont want our event used for political point scoring. We want it focused on the farmers and the troubles we are facing at the moment. Andrew Meredith, the editor of Farmers Weekly, warned of the damage one loose-lipped person can do to a cause, adding: The organisers of the march have it exactly right in making repeated calls for all participants to uphold the farming industrys reputation and make this a positive event. A debate has been taking place in the farming community about whether Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, should speak. He offered to, but some were worried he would make the event about him and take attention away from the cause. Tim Farron, the Liberal Democrat environment spokesperson, was considering speaking at the event and said of Farage: Most problems [farmers] face are Brexit related. Hes done far more damage to them than this government. Steve Reed, the environment secretary, is understood to have turned down an invitation to attend. The organisers do not want attention taken away from the issues at hand. Farmers are concerned they will be hit by a tax bill that will eat up their profits and force them to sell; Defra figures show 66% of farms could be hit by a surprise inheritance tax they have not budgeted for, despite Treasury claims the change will only apply to a quarter of farmers. During the budget Reeves also announced a shock cut to farming subsidies, which are a hangover from the EU, of 79%. Farmers were expecting a more tapered cut: at the top end of the scale, a farmer receiving 62,000 last year was expecting 38,000 this year but will get 7,200. Andrea Papi had gone for a jog when he encountered a bear in his native Trentino. Photograph: Angela Giuffrida/The Guardian Franca Gherardini used to cherish the sublime views from her home in Caldes, a village surrounded by forests on the slopes of the Brenta Dolomites in northern Italys Trentino province. But now she tries to shut out the scene as much as possible, rolling down the window canopy in the morning to avoid looking towards the area where her son, Andrea Papi, 26, was killed by a bear. The mountains used to bring me peace, she said. Now when I look out of the window, it is gut-wrenching. Papi is the only person known to have been killed by a wild bear in Italy in modern times. But his death in April last year marked a watershed moment in a fierce debate over brown bears, imported into western Trentino from Slovenia as part of a rewilding project 25 years ago, that has pitted politicians against animal activists. The wrangle has overshadowed the grief of Papis family and the solidarity of the residents living in Caldes and the 12 other villages that make up the Val di Sole area of the province. But the community in the valley, which is the only place in the world where wild bears live in such close proximity to humans, made their voices heard loud and clear in a recent consultative ballot organised by a committee set up in Papis memory: 98% expressed that they were no longer willing to tolerate the animals, deeming them to be a threat to public safety as well as the local economy. The organisers hope the vote will reverberate as far as Brussels and force a solution to their problems. For animal rights associations, the plebiscite was a farce aimed at deceiving people. Papi, who had been studying for a masters in mountain sport science, had gone for run along a popular path in the late afternoon when he encountered JJ4, a female bear. He knew the area well and would often gather with friends in a mountain hut at the top of the path. He posted a panoramic video on Instagram before starting his run, alongside the caption peace. Gherardini said she had a feeling something bad had happened when her son did not return home to prepare for a family dinner that evening. His battered body was found early the next morning on a wooded slope about 60 metres away from the path. A bloodied stick, which he is thought to have used to fend off the attack, lay nearby. An autopsy confirmed Papi had been killed by JJ4, a bear born after mating between Jurka and Joze, two of the 10 imported bears released into the Adamello Brenta nature park through Life Ursus, an EU-funded project aimed at reversing the areas dwindling brown bear population. Bears became the symbol of Trentino, with images of the animal adorning promotional material and featuring in the logo of the local newspaper. The project was hailed a success by conservationists, but the bear population rapidly grew numbers today are estimated at between 86 and 120 and public opinion turned when the animals started gravitating towards inhabited areas, preying on livestock and rummaging through bins in search of food. Franca Penasa, a member of the Andrea Papi committee and a former president for the Trentino section of the Stelvio national park, opposed the rewilding project from the start. There was no counterbalance with the local community, she said. The animals were put at the top of the food chain. While I respect the animal activists, they dont have to live alongside the problem and treat bears as if they were a domestic pet. The rewilding was completed in 2004, with the management of the project handed over to Trentinos authorities. This is where the issues began, according to Massimo Vitturi, a spokesperson for the animal rights lobby, LAV. The problems today are the result of sloppy politics, he said. The province should have promoted coexistence, introducing measures, such as bear-proof bins, to keep both the citizens and bears safe. Bears go towards inhabited areas in search of food not because they like the towns but because bins are overflowing. People were also never properly informed about the animals and how to keep safe. The first bear attack against a human was reported in 2014, and there have been about 10 since, the most recent involving a French tourist. In four of the cases, the bears were culled by the provinces forestry corps. JJ4, who was classified as dangerous after attacking two hikers in 2020, was captured soon after Papis death and has since been held in an enclosure. Her life was spared after a regional court struck down a culling order by Maurizio Fugatti, the president of Trentino province. Before Papis death, people did not perceive the danger the animals posed. Now, many are too afraid to venture into the forest. They became traumatised because they didnt think a bear could kill a person, said Andreas Pichler, whose documentary Pericolosamente Vicini (Dangerously Close), was recently aired on Rai. Now we have this total panic. On top of this, people have totally lost faith in the institutions [responsible for managing the situation]. The Andrea Papi committee is calling for a scientific commission to be created and to establish a limit on the number of bears the territory can feasibly accommodate. They want all bears deemed dangerous to be killed, similar to a policy in neighbouring Switzerland. Alessandro De Guelmi, a vet, is wholly supportive of the animals, even taking tourists into the forest to see them, but he agrees with the committee. Dangerous bears need to be immediately culled. Ive been saying it for 20 years this is the best way to keep the human population and the other bears safe. Claudio Groff, the chief of the large carnivores division of Trentinos wildlife department, said his units policy towards problematic bears was three-pronged: reduce as much as possible their contact with humans by installing anti-bear bins, using dogs and rubber bullets to deter them, and properly informing people how to keep safe. In rare cases when these measures arent enough, the only solution is to eliminate the bear and not keep it in captivity, he said. Roberto Failoni, a forestry councillor, said the province would continue to implement every possible strategy to guarantee the safety of people, and that it felt even more responsibility now that citizens had expressed themselves. But for Papis parents, who are taking Fugatti and their local mayor to court for alleged manslaughter, the action has come too late. Andrea was accused of imprudence, but its the authorities that have been imprudent, said his father, Carlo. We want justice. Iona Julian-Walters at Irene artists warehouse in Brunswick, Melbourne. Photograph: Charlie Kinross/The Guardian Walking up the rainbow-coloured stairs to the second floor of the Irene artists warehouse in Melbourne feels a bit like stepping back in time, with political and psychedelic stencil art sprayed between higgledy-piggledy MDF board walls separating a maze of studios amid remnants of the buildings industrial history. The converted former lingerie factory in a cul de sac off Lygon Street in the inner-north suburb of Brunswick has been a not-for-profit artist and activist space since 2001 but is now facing an uncertain future as urban gentrification and council regulations close in. The not-for-profit collective-run warehouse now provides affordable rent to about 30 artists working in an array of mediums including sculpture, circus, puppetry, film and dance. But like many other noncommercial creative workplaces in inner Melbourne, Irene warehouse is facing what its co-caretaker Jordan Brown describes as an existential threat. After a visit from council building inspectors in February the tenants received a building notice in March informing them of an extensive list of building upgrades including repairing fire extinguishers and hydrants, installing exit lighting, servicing all stairways and fixing roof leaks. They now have until 25 November to comply to avoid hefty fines and a building order to demolish all internal structures basically to gut the place. It makes us feel precarious here if we dont meet the requirements we are out, says Brown, stressing that they have been working constructively with the council and their landlord to try to comply thus far. Our problem is that much of the studio infrastructure was built in such a haphazard way that its hard now to bring it up to modern standards. It does feel like an existential threat. In response to questions from Guardian Australia, a spokesperson for Merri-Bek city council said it was committed to ensuring the safety of all building occupants and the public. Council supports the provision of arts and civic spaces for our community to use and enjoy, and we have a responsibility to ensure that buildings are safe for people, a statement said. The warehouse has set up a fundraising page to try to meet the requirements, but for Alex Kelly, one of 25 people who co-founded Irene in 2001, such places remain a vital and precious part of Melbournes cultural and political landscape that must be retained. She speaks of the early days of the warehouse as a time when a number of independent media publications including the Paper and Indymedia were established, along with groups including a bike co-op, Food not Bombs, Barricade books and innumerable art projects as well as staging of wild warehouse parties. Affordable and creative spaces where artists and organisers can experiment, collaborate and learn from each other are essential, she says. Today, the walls of Irene reveal layer upon layer of artists having worked here including stencil art and more detailed paintings, painted slogans include Look up our sky is sick and Politicians are not shamans amid remnants of its former industrial past. Iona Julian-Walters is an interdisciplinary artist who shares a small studio here with her former RMIT art school friend, Alison Newman. They had to relocate to this studio after the building inspectors insisted the mezzanine studios upstairs be discontinued. Like other artists, Julian-Walters says she moved to Irene after her previous studio in another building was bought by a developer and they all had to find new digs. I feel so lucky to be here theres something about this place where you can really feel the history here it feels really special to be connected to a long line of people that have been here making really anti-establishment art in Melbourne, she says. What kind of society are we living in if we cant provide spaces for artists to make art? The film-maker and animator Lukas Schrank, who works from a well-designed, sparsely decorated ground floor studio, shares a similar story of having moved to Irene when his Collingwood studio made way for upmarket apartments. Related: The best cinema that was ever built: the Capitol, Melbournes hidden architectural treasure, turns 100 When I first moved in here during Covid I was sharing this studio with a family of possums who had burrowed into the wall through the broken windows so the first thing I had to do was move them out and perspex the windows, he says, adding that he likes the grunginess and diversity of Irene as opposed to nicer commercial studios that charge six times the rent. Many of us share that lived experience of coming from other studio spaces that have been squeezed out because of gentrification, he says. The fact that the rent is affordable means I can focus on doing pro-bono community work rather than having to take work just to pay the bills. Alex Kelly believes the loss of Irene would reverberate far beyond the warehouses walls. Every city around the world that has gentrified and closed its squats and warehouses ends up regretting it and trying to design back in the innovation and dynamism that these kinds of places bring, she says. Irene is a rare gem that so many people have used for myriad low-budget projects, recordings and political organising its precious. A group of Christians held a silent protest outside the branch on Sunday - PETER JOLLY NORTHPIX Scottish islanders have defied calls to boycott a branch of Tesco after the supermarket chain provoked fury from Christian fundamentalists by announcing it would start opening on Sundays. The shop on Stornoway, described as being at the heart of Britains Bible belt, opened for the first time on the Sabbath in a move that has divided the deeply religious community. There had been claims that the chain would face a major backlash from locals, some of whom began shopping at the islands more expensive Co-op in protest. However, hundreds of shoppers arrived at the Tesco branch within a few hours of its opening at noon on Sunday and its car park was full by 12.10pm. William Macdonald, a retired plumber, was the first to be served and said he would keep his receipt for a bag of potatoes, proclaiming it a bit of history. Its long overdue, he said. I am more than pleased, especially for the tourists. Its good for the islands and its progress. Times have changed. I never intended to be the first customer. But I needed a bag of potatoes. There has been a long-standing tradition on the Isle of Lewis of observing the Sabbath, which made Tescos decision deeply controversial. Nearly 200 people attended a public meeting earlier this month in protest at the move and more than 2,000 people signed an online petition. The Stornoway shop was thought to be the only branch in the retail giants UK empire not to previously open on Sundays. Religion controlling peoples lives Council-run swimming pools, soft plays and bowling alleys in the region are all closed on Sundays. In past decades, play park swings were chained up on Sundays and hanging out washing was frowned upon. However, some shoppers said it was time for the Churchs influence over peoples lives on the Hebridean island to be scaled back. This is my first shop of the week so Im glad its open, Bus driver John Macleod, who had a full trolley of shopping, said. It is well overdue. The Church should keep its nose out of peoples business. I hope its here to stay. One woman, who declined to be named, travelled over 40 miles from the neighbouring Isle of Harris to visit the Tesco. She said: We are in the 21st century and some people here are culturally suppressed. Religion is being used to control peoples lives but times have changed. Police were at the scene as the Tesco opened - PETER JOLLY NORTHPIX A police car did a sweep of the car park before the Tesco opened, while a group of four Christians, holding placards about keeping the Sabbath holy, mounted a silent protest at its entrance. Their spokesman Mark Macdonald, of the Free Church of Scotland (Continuing), admitted that Tescos decision would probably lead to more businesses opening on the Sabbath. I think it is a very sad day, he said. It is something we are never going to get back. Its gone now. We are losing something so precious as an island. This is like any other weekday now. Other shops may follow. Switching stores Former councillor Charlie Nicolson previously claimed dozens of people had already stopped shopping at the Stornoway store and that the boycott would grow. He said: There is a large number that have already switched and more will be joining them. The Co-op is very busy and has welcomed people it has not seen in a long time. Stornoway community council had urged the chain to reverse its decision. However, it admitted that short of a local referendum being held, it would be difficult to determine exactly where the balance of public opinion lies. The number of visitors to the branch on Sunday was seen as a vindication for Tesco, which had insisted that it received positive feedback about its plans. It claimed that Sunday opening would mean the creation of at least 30 new jobs but added that staff would not be forced to work on the Sabbath. The noon opening time is later than at its other Scottish supermarkets, which generally open at 8am. A Tesco spokesman said: We are confident that the decision to open our Stornoway Superstore on Sundays will allow us to balance the demand for a seven-day opening while remaining respectful to local traditions and culture. This change will improve the shopping experience for local customers by offering them flexibility and reducing busy periods during the week. Mohammad Afif was visiting the Syrian Baath partys Lebanese headquarters in Beirut when it was hit by an Israeli strike - Adnan Abidi/Reuters Hezbollahs chief media officer and prominent spokesman Mohammad Afif was killed by an Israeli strike in central Beirut on Sunday. Mr Afif was visiting the Syrian Baath partys Lebanese headquarters in the Ras al-Nabaa neighbourhood of the capital when it was hit by an unannounced Israeli bombardment, Lebanese media said. Ali Hijazi, the Baath partys leader in Lebanon, later confirmed that Mr Afif had been killed. The strike came as Lebanese leaders were studying a US-drafted ceasefire deal that would see Hezbollahs disarmament in the border regions and Israel withdraw its troops. Under its terms, the Lebanese armed forces would be the only armed group south of the Litani river, which is about 20 miles from Israels border. Mr Afif was Hezbollahs chief media officer and a prominent spokesman for the terror group - Haider Kadhim/Reuters Video footage from the scene showed rescuers searching for survivors among the rubble of a collapsed building. Lebanons health ministry said one person had been killed and three others injured. Ras al-Nabaa is a central Beirut district, around three miles from the citys Hezbollah-dominated southern suburbs, where the vast majority of Israeli strikes have taken place. Mr Afif was a long-time media adviser to Hezbollahs former secretary general Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli air attack on south Beirut on Sept 27. He had joined the terror group in the early 1980s and managed Hezbollahs Al-Manar television station for several years before taking over its media relations office in 2014. Mr Afif arranged numerous press conferences in Beiruts southern suburbs in recent weeks, and was a point of contact for journalists. The targeted building is in central Beirut, three miles from the citys Hezbollah-dominated southern suburbs - Adnan Abidi/Reuters The Israeli military declined to comment on the strike and did not issue an evacuation order before carrying out the attack. The Israeli militarys Arabic spokesman did not mention the strike, but said on social media that Israeli warplanes had targeted Hezbollah sites in the southern suburbs of Beirut. The terrorist [group] Hezbollah is deliberately establishing military structures within civilian areas throughout Lebanon with the aim of carrying out terrorist acts, placing its operatives and leaders in the heart of the civilian population, he wrote on X, formerly Twitter. Prior to the raids, a series of steps were taken to reduce the possibility of civilian casualties, including intelligence gathering, aerial reconnaissance, and advance warnings to evacuate the area, he added. The spokesman said that the Israeli air force had attacked some 50 Hezbollah targets in the southern suburbs of Beirut this week, including Nasrallahs former home. On Sunday, Hezbollahs media office released a two-month summary of the war following Israels invasion, claiming that 100 Israeli soldiers had been killed and 30 artillery positions destroyed. It also said that Hezbollah had fired 1,047 rockets and 29 anti-aircraft missiles. Israel says that 47 soldiers have been killed since Sept 30, when it sent troops across the border. The Israel Defense Forces have since pushed deep into Lebanon, reaching a village 61 miles from the capital Beirut last week. Pope wants Gaza genocide investigation Meanwhile, it emerged on Sunday that Pope Francis favours a global investigation to determine if Israels attacks in Gaza constitute genocide. According to some experts, what is happening in Gaza has the characteristics of a genocide, the Pope said in excerpts from his forthcoming book, published by the Italian daily La Stampa. We should investigate carefully to determine whether it fits into the technical definition formulated by jurists and international bodies. While the Argentinian leader of the 1.4-billion-member Catholic Church has called Israels attacks in Gaza and Lebanon immoral and disproportionate and repeatedly stresses de-escalation, it is the first time he has openly called for an investigation of possible genocide allegations over Israels bombings in the Gaza Strip. Lord Blunkett was injured falling into a gap at Westminster station - Lorne Campbell/Guzelian Lord Blunkett is calling for action on death trap tube platforms after he was injured falling into the gap at Westminster station. The Labour peer, who is blind, called on Transport for London to do more to keep visually impaired people safe. He was getting on a District Line train with his guide dog three weeks ago when his feet slipped. As I took a step to get on to the tube train I suddenly felt both my feet disappearing down the gap. In an instant my body had been propelled forward into the carriage and I was face down on the floor. My legs had somehow been scraped out of the gap and into the carriage. I didnt fully know what had happened. I felt enormous pain in both my legs; they were bruised and grazed, he wrote in the Sun on Sunday. Lord Blunketts fall came after a recent heart attack that means he must take blood thinners, which make any bruising or bleeding dangerous. Lack of staff An X-ray confirmed extraordinary bruising, but no broken leg, and he says he is angry about what happened. Whenever you step into a tube station in London you hear the tannoy warn people to mind the gap. But too often there are no staff members to actually help you if, like me, you cannot see. He is calling for TfL to make efforts to fill the widest gaps on platforms and make sure there is always someone there to help, especially during rush hour. Some of our platforms are death traps. The gap between the walkway and train is huge and they are unsafe for everyone, but particularly for blind people. He will soon meet TfL to ask for answers and an urgent review into the safety of the busiest tube stations. Nick Dent, London Undergrounds director of customer operations, said: We were extremely sorry that Lord Blunkett was injured on our network. We have written to, and will be meeting with, him to discuss how we could have managed the incident better and to ensure that lessons are learned. The safety of our customers and staff is at the forefront of everything we do, and while injuries like the one experienced by Lord Blunkett are rare, we are undertaking a huge range of work aimed at eradicating such incidents and making travelling even safer for everyone. Ed Miliband at COP29 There is something grimly funny about Ed Miliband flying back and forth, with an entourage of 470 delegates, to the climate change conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, a country which relies on fossil fuels for 90 per cent of its exports. The Energy Secretary is, after all, the man who once instructed the country to buy EVs, while admitting live on television that he had not done so himself. But Milibands hypocrisy is no laughing matter because his policies bring serious dangers to Britain. He aims to reach net zero by 2050 meaning Britains total greenhouse gas emissions can never be greater than the emissions we remove from the atmosphere and to decarbonise the grid by 2030. At Baku last week, he set a third ambition: to reduce carbon emissions by 81 per cent, based on 1990 levels, by 2035. An intelligent man, Miliband must know that what he says about these objectives, and the policies he pursues to achieve them, is dishonest. He claims the energy technologies he favours will reduce consumer bills. He insists decarbonisation does not mean deindustrialisation. And he says renewable energy will make us less dependent on foreign dictators and autocratic governments. Before the election, Miliband claimed that his policies would cut household energy bills by 300 per year by 2030. But since then he has avoided repeating the promise, and it is clear why. The Office for Budget Responsibility says the country will pay more than 14 billion in environmental levies by 2029 to subsidise the renewable technologies backed by the Government, an increase of 3.4 billion from its last estimate in March. The Institute for Fiscal Studies has calculated that environmental levies will rise to 120 per household per year by 2029. In fact even the report Miliband and his ministers cite to claim their plans will mean lower bills by the National Energy System Operator, a publicly owned company reporting to Miliband himself says bills will rise. NESO modelling says an energy mix with a higher contribution from fossil fuels will be cheaper than the mix demanded by Miliband. And even this calculation depends on assumptions skewed in Milibands favour, such as gas prices 40 per cent higher than official estimates, a carbon price double the existing level and a rapid increase in offshore wind construction while implausibly leaving construction costs stable. The report says, There are also risks that the accelerated pace [of decarbonisation] reduces competitive pressure, increases supply chain tightness or otherwise increases costs. Higher costs mean less spending power for households, and less competitive industry. Miliband and his ministers may chant their mantra about decarbonisation not meaning deindustrialisation and indeed claim it is a spur for reindustrialisation but repetition does not make a wrong claim right. Having once had internationally competitive costs, in recent years British industrial energy prices have risen to 50 per cent higher than the average of comparable advanced economies. Our industrial electricity prices are four times higher than in China, three times higher than in America and Canada, more than twice as high as in South Korea and New Zealand, and twice as high as in the European countries, such as Finland, France and Sweden, that strongly back nuclear energy. Our problem is not, as Miliband claims, exposure to international gas prices. Those prices have increased, but the Government is taxing North Sea oil and gas out of existence and deliberately delaying the deployment of small modular nuclear reactors. It is committed to carbon budgets, invented by Miliband the last time he ran energy policy, which have deliberately forced up prices. It pursues policies that run faster than technology allows, and so subsidises systems with higher costs and lower outputs than we would otherwise enjoy. And for these worse outcomes, ministers plan to deploy hundreds of billions, or trillions, of pounds in public and private capital. These sums could otherwise be allocated for infrastructure, research and development and business growth that create prosperity. So Milibands policies not only increase costs and damage industry, they also make us less secure. Wishful thinking cannot compensate for the intermittency challenges faced by renewable technologies, which is why a grid dominated by renewables risks shortages, outages and demand flexibility, as the NESO report euphemistically calls what most people would consider rationing. The rush also contributes to energy insecurity. Miliband has made clear, for example, that he sees no problem with Chinese companies such as Mingyang Smart Energy building floating turbines for offshore wind farms in the North Sea. But there are serious concerns about Chinese companies retaining control of the technology within turbines after installation, and Norway has recently barred Mingyang from its supply chain. So much for ending our alleged dependence on foreign dictators. But hurried targets mean ministers want to avoid difficult questions. Chinese products and services made cheaper by massive subsidies and suppressed labour costs make a mockery of promises of industrial strategy, domestic supply chains and green British jobs. The same is true with the treatment of cheap Chinese-manufactured EVs. While Europe and America plan tariffs, Miliband will prioritise short-term reductions in British emissions over the long-term viability of automotive manufacturing at home. And this is before we consider the use of slave labour in producing solar panels in Xinjiang. Miliband is in effect claiming to have resolved the energy trilemma the tension between cost, security and decarbonisation. But if things really were so simple, every country in the world would be marching as quickly as Miliband towards his objectives, and we would already be enjoying the lower costs, energy security and green jobs he promises. But the trilemma has not been resolved and over the next five years, the British people are going to pay more to get less, and replace a secure energy supply with an intermittent and unreliable alternative. This is not progress. Nor is it a route to prosperity. John Healey says the Government is on a mission to lift military morale - Geoff Pugh for the Telegraph Military families living overseas have been handed 3,400-a-year of free childcare amid the recruitment and retention crisis threatening the Armed Forces. The announcement was made as part of a drive by the Government to boost military morale by extending the wraparound childcare policy to those based abroad. The fund will entitle them to claim up to 20 hours a week of funded childcare, before and after school. It comes as the Government is renewing the nations contract with those who serve, and have served, ahead of the first Parliamentary debate on its landmark Armed Forces Commissioner Bill on Monday The expansion is expected to cost 3 million over the next five years. John Healey, the Defence Secretary, said: We are on a mission to lift military morale and deliver on our manifesto promise to renew the nations contract with those who serve from establishing a strong, independent Armed Forces Commissioner to providing the largest pay rise for personnel in decades. We ask our Armed Forces to make extraordinary sacrifices to defend UK interests and keep us all safe. We recognise the commitment of service families based abroad and that is why we are stepping up support, with the expansion of wraparound childcare set to save families thousands of pounds a year. Support for military families From January, the wraparound childcare scheme, which already supports more than 7,000 service children in the UK, will be available to personnel deployed across the vast majority of European countries as well as the Falkland Islands, Gibraltar and Brunei. The scheme supports military families with children aged 4-11, or 4-16 if receiving disability allowances. All three Armed Forces have are in a recruitment crisis, with the Royal Navy faring worst. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has commissioned a new Strategic Defence Review, which is due to be published early next year and will address staffing problems, as well as point to how it plans to focus the military on the changing nature of conflict. The MoD said tackling the ongoing Armed Forces recruitment and retention challenges remains a key focus for the Government. Earlier this year, the department announced it had slashed recruitment red tape to make the process more straightforward for those wanting to join the military, which included the removal of 100 unnecessary medical policies such as blocking candidates who had hay fever, eczema and acne. Earlier this year, the Government announced an average 6 per cent pay rise with new recruits receiving a 35 per cent rise, ensuring all members of the Armed Forces get at least the National Living Wage for the first time. Luke Pollard, the Minister for the Armed Forces, said: Armed Forces families deployed overseas give up so much to protect the UK and for the first time, the Government is ensuring they can access the same level of support as those back home. The Government will always stand up for the Armed Forces, and we will not rest until we have lifted military morale. We inherited a talented yet demoralised Armed Forces and so we are taking direct action to address this head on ensuring their service and sacrifice are properly recognised and rewarded. A summit takes place this week of UK government officials and overseas territories, such as the British Virgin Islands, pictured. Photograph: Dennis Frates/Alamy The UKs offshore financial centres must fall in behind plans to stop dirty money by publishing registers of corporate ownership, leading political campaigners have said, as Labour pledged not to cave in to lobbying designed to weaken the proposals. Labours Dame Margaret Hodge and the Conservative MP Andrew Mitchell hit out at dither and delay, ahead of this weeks summit between UK government officials and overseas territories, such as the British Virgin Islands (BVIs) and Cayman Islands, in London. In an editorial for the Guardian, they accuse overseas territories and crown dependencies, such as Jersey and the Isle of Man, of trying to water down or ward off measures designed to counteract money laundering and other illicit transactions. We know all too well that the overseas territories and crown dependencies play a pivotal role in helping crooks and tax dodgers launder and hide their dirty money, Hodge and Mitchell said. Dirty money underpins corruption, crime and conflict. It causes immense harm at home and abroad, enabling serious and organised crime and diverting resources needed for vital public services. Public registers, and the scrutiny that they bring, are the best antidote to the scourge of illicit finance. Mitchell and Hodge are understood to have corralled support from dozens of MPs across the political spectrum to ramp up the pressure before the joint ministerial council. The two-day event starts on Wednesday. We must stop the dither and delay of recent years and pierce the veil of anonymity that protects criminals and kleptocrats, they said. The duo accused offshore centres of reneging on a promise to introduce public registers by December 2023. A key point of contention is whether the registers would be open to everyone or only those with legitimate interests, such as anti-corruption campaign groups. Some overseas territories are opposed to fully open registers and British lobbyists have been working with them in an effort to persuade the government to accept a legitimate interest compromise. In an online briefing to the BVI financial sector, viewed by the Guardian, a lobbyist and a lawyer acting for the IFC Forum an umbrella lobby group representing offshore law firms told their audience of the need to educate Labour MPs. Oliver Cooper, a Conservative councillor and a lawyer at Charles Russell Speechlys, who acts as counsel for IFC Forum, said the foreign secretary, David Lammy, and Stephen Doughty, minister for the overseas territories, had been sold on [...] the IFCs [international financial centres]. Stephen Doughty denied this. I have been clear that where legitimate interest filters are implemented it must be to a high standard and as an interim step to full public accessibility, he said. This will be key to bearing down on financial secrecy, which is the lifeblood of illicit finance including money laundering, and tax and sanctions evasion. During the briefing, Mitchell Cohen, a public relations executive at Lansons Team Farner, said the offshore centres needed to engage with Labour to detoxify any negative brands. He described Labour MPs sympathetic to Margaret Hodges position on registers as potential forces of negativity and said lobbyists needed to neutralise them with positive messages. Cohen, who has advised several leading Conservative politicians and now advises the BVI government, said there was a hope that the Treasury would be open to stopping short of full public registers of beneficial ownership. We know Treasury are a lot more pragmatic and are going to be pulling a lot of strings across government, he said during the presentation, given shortly after Labour won the election. A Foreign Office spokesperson said the government was pursuing fully public registers with full vigour. Hodge and Mitchell said: If the overseas territories and crown dependencies will not accept the will of parliament we must use our powers to insist that they act. Hodge has previously called on the government to issue an order in council to compel overseas territories to comply and suggested the crown dependencies could be forced to follow suit, a proposal that would test constitutional convention and law. A spokesperson for the Cayman Islands countered that there was no evidence to back up any such claims with respect to illicit finance or sanctions evasion in the Cayman Islands. It shows that money laundering cases involving the Cayman Islands are in fact extremely rare and that sanctions have been implemented effectively, they said. Ian Gorst, Jerseys minister for external relations, said: Any suggestion that Jersey plays a pivotal role in helping criminals and tax evaders launder and hide illicit funds is wholly inaccurate. A spokesperson for the Isle of Man government said it remains committed to playing its part in deterring, preventing and detecting criminals and tax evaders who wish to launder or hide illicit funds. The Guardian also approached representatives of the BVIs and the Isle of Man for comment. This article was amended on 18 November 2024 to add a comments from Jersey minister Ian Gorst and the Isle of Man government Protesters defaced and knocked over the Bismarck statue in Frankfurt Germanys first chancellor, Otto von Bismarck, has been branded a coloniser by protesters who toppled and vandalised a monument dedicated to him in Frankfurt. Pictures showed the 125-year-old bronze statue lying on the ground in the Hochst district of the city, with red paint sprayed over Bismarcks face and spiked helmet. Coloniser and anti-colonial action were painted over the statue, which police said had been sawn off its plinth before being pushed over on Friday. The toppling came on the 140th anniversary of the start of the Berlin Conference, which is seen as emblematic of Europes 19th century colonisation of Africa. An unnamed group claimed responsibility, writing on a far-Left website that Bismarck had initiated a violent conquest and exploitation of the [African] continent, which led to years of systematic exploitation and enslavement. To this day there are countless Bismarck monuments and statues in Germany, it added. Even today, he is still remembered positively, although his atrocities are left out. The 125-year-old bronze statue was left lying on the ground in the Hochst district of Frankfurt Frank Grobe, a local state deputy for the hard-Right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party said that this is part of the Left-wing extremist Culture War and an attack on our history and identity. The editor-in-chief of the Right-wing Junge Freiheit magazine called it unbelievable destructive rage and anti-German hatred from Left-wing extremists. The Berlin Conference was organised by Bismarck in 1884 at the request of Belgian King Leopold II, and is seen by some historians as formalising how European powers would manage the conquest of Africa. The conference concluded with the signing of a treaty that guaranteed trade and navigation freedoms between the powers. It also outlawed the practice of slavery. Bismarck is regarded in Germany as a skilled diplomat and politician who masterminded German unification and built the worlds first welfare state. Although Germany acquired territory in Africa under Bismarck he was opposed to doing so, believing that colonies were a financial drain and that Germanys interests were in Europe. The toppling came on the 140th anniversary of the start of the Berlin Conference - Bildagentur-online/Universal Images Group Editorial In recent years, Left-wing groups have attacked the legacy of the Iron Chancellor, saying his colonialist past has been overlooked. After authorities in Hamburg were criticised for spending 9 million euros (7.5 million) renovating a 112-foot-high statue of Bismarck in 2020, the citys centre-Left government held a competition to decolonise the monument. Artists and architects were invited to submit proposals for recontextualising the statue. Hamburgs Monuments Protection Office however decreed that the proposals could not alter the monument or attach anything to it, and so the competition was abandoned. In Berlin on Saturday, activists from Berlin Dekoloniale were joined by Labour MP Bell Ribeiro-Addy. What happened here in Berlin was not just an act of territorial rearrangement, it was an act of violence, one that echoes throughout generations, Ms Ribeiro-Addy said of the 1884 Berlin Conference. It wasnt just about drawing borders, she added. It was about power control, exploitation, claiming resources, land, minerals, labour. scooter A record number of deaths involving mobility scooters has prompted demands for tougher safety rules. In 2023, 16 people died in fatal collisions while another 90 were left with serious injuries, figures from the Department for Transport show. In another 222 incidents, people suffered minor injuries. Failing to spot hazards was the most common cause of a collision, followed by being blinded by the sun, disobeying traffic signs and losing control in bad weather. The latest figure of 328 injury crashes is more than double the 156 recorded in 2013, of which five resulted in death. Natalie Young died five weeks after being hit by a mobility scooter at a Morrisons supermarket in Taunton on March 9 2022. Following an inquest into her death in 2023, Samantha Marsh, the senior coroner for Somerset, called on Mark Harper, then transport secretary, to look at introducing similar assessments to those for cars. She warned that the complete lack of regulation around scooter use could lead to more deaths. Pose a significant risk In a prevention of future deaths report, Ms Marsh said: Mobility scooters can reach a fast enough speed to pose a significant risk to the entire community and population but specifically, small children, pregnant mothers and the elderly who are all particularly vulnerable to being impacted at speed by a blunt-force object and dying as a result of the injuries they sustain. I am concerned that the lack of regulation around mobility scooters will continue to result in further deaths, especially when there continues to be no regulation around those who are deemed fit to operate and use them. Another fatal collision involved double amputee Mark Jackson whose scooter was involved in a car crash in Grantham, Lincs, in August 2024. The 61-year-old was injured in a collision between a red Ford Fusion and his mobility scooter on North Parade just before 1pm on Aug 14. He died the next day. A woman in her 70s fell to her death in July 2024 when her scooter went over the sea wall in Dawlish, Devon. London had the highest number of collisions with 104 in the past five years. In the West Midlands there were 76, there were 75 in Notts and 72 in Lincs. There are believed to be more than 300,000 mobility scooter users in the UK. At present you do not need a licence to drive any type of mobility scooter, including those that can travel at eight miles per hour. Drivers over 70, however, must renew their driving licences every three years, complete a medical declaration form and pass an eye test. A Department for Transport spokesperson said: To ensure mobility scooter users remain safe, we have provided funding for a training scheme to educate users. The Driving Mobility scheme is supported by the Government to train sellers in carrying out driving safety assessments and issuing guidance to customers. Matt Gaetz at the Republican national convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on 16 July 2024. Photograph: Evan Vucci/AP Discussion on Donald Trumps selection of Matt Gaetz, the former Florida congressman who has been accused of sexual misconduct, for US attorney general continued on Sunday, with the Republican senator Markwayne Mullin calling for an unreleased ethics report to be released to the Senate. Mullin told NBCs Meet the Press that the Senate, which will oversee Gaetzs confirmation hearings to become attorney general, should have access to that but declined to say if it should be released publicly. Gaetz resigned from his seat in Congress on Wednesday soon after the president-elect made his controversial pick, frustrating plans by a congressional ethics panel to release a review of claims against Gaetz, including sexual misconduct and illegal drug use. Gaetz denies any wrongdoing. Republican House speaker Mike Johnson repeated his position on Sunday that the survey should remain out of the public realm. Gaetz had faced a three-year justice department investigation into the same allegations that concluded without criminal charges being brought. Johnson said the principle was that the ethics committees jurisdiction did not extend to non-members of the House. There have been, I understand, I think, two exceptions to the rule over the whole history of Congress and the history of the ethics committee, Johnson told CNN, adding that while he did not have the authority to stop it we dont want to go down that road. Trumps selection of Gaetz, while successfully provoking Democrats outrage, is also seen as a test for Republicans to bend Trumps force of will. Mullin has previously noted situations in which Gaetz had allegedly shown colleagues nude photographs of his sexual conquests and described him as unprincipled. Related: Two Trump cabinet choices in jeopardy over sexual misconduct allegations But the senator said he had not made a decision on whether to support Gaetz in a confirmation vote. Im going to give him a fair shot just like any individual, Mullin said. The pending report seems likely to emerge in some form after other senior Republicans, including senators Susan Collins, John Cornyn and Thom Tillis have all said they believe it should be shown to them. Separately, the Pennsylvania Democratic senator John Fetterman repeated his advice to members of his own party to not freak out over everything Trump does, pointing out that for at least the next two years, Republicans can run the table. Fetterman said he looked forward to reviewing some of Trumps nominations but others are just absolute trolls, including Gaetz. For Democrats, who are still trying to figure out reasons for their devastating loss at the ballot box this month, their outrage at Trumps nominations gets the kind of thing that he wanted, like the freak-out, Fetterman continued. Its still not even Thanksgiving yet and if were having meltdowns at every tweet or every appointment. Democrats, Fetterman added, should be more concerned about Republicans being able to run the table for the next two years. Those are the things you really want to be concerned about, not small tweets or, you know, random kinds of appointments. But the Democratic senator-elect Adam Schiff told CNN that Gaetz was not only unqualified, he is really disqualified to become the countrys top lawyer. Are we really going to have an attorney general [with] credible allegations he was involved in child sex-trafficking, potential illicit drug use, obstruction of an investigation? Who has no experience serving in the justice department, only being investigated by it, Schiff said. This article was amended on 18 November 2024. An earlier version said that John Fetterman was re-elected in Pennsylvania this month. In fact he was elected in November 2022 and is not due for re-election until 2028. Sikhs celebrate the birthday of Guru Nunak in Amritsar, India on Friday - Prabhjot Gill/AP More than 300 Sikh groups have written to Sir Keir Starmer to express their huge disappointment that No 10 did not mark a Sikh festival. On Sunday, the Sikh Federation criticised the Prime Minister for failing to wish more than one million British Sikhs a Happy Gurpurb on Nov 15. While other world leaders social media accounts celebrated the 555th birthday of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, Downing Street did not. Addressing the Prime Minister on behalf of hundreds of Sikh Gurdwaras and organisations, the federations lead executive Dabinderjit Singh described the blunder as indefensible. Days earlier Number 10 was criticised for serving meat and alcohol to Hindu guests at a Diwali event, an oversight which triggered a public apology. In the letter seen by The Telegraph, Mr Singh, a former National Audit Office director, noted that this latest show of incompetence suggested that the Prime Minister was taking the Sikh community for granted. He wrote: When you were the leader of the Opposition you put out excellent Gurpurb messages, but [this] oversight will be seen by many in the Sikh community that our community is being taken totally for granted now you are in power. Mr Singh explained that the embarrassing error was all the more unforgivable coming at a time when the Sikh diaspora faced transnational repression by the Indian government. Sikh activists in the United States and Canada have reported surveillance, threats and harassment which they attribute to Indian government efforts to suppress dissent. Mr Singh noted that Sir Keir has been made aware of the heightened threats against the Sikh community, including by Justin Trudeau, the Canadian prime minister. Warnings from British intelligence He noted this was not the first time the Sikh Federation felt the Government was dismissive of its concerns, pointing out that they had been forced to embarrassingly alert Craig Guildford, Chief Constable of West Midlands Police, about threat to life warnings for Sikhs in the area from British intelligence, of which he was reportedly totally unaware. Mr Singh said there were tens of thousands of constituents who will find it impossible to defend your oversight as PM by not putting out a message on Gurpurb and reassuring the Sikh community about their safety and security. The Sikh Federation called out former leaders Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak for the same oversight when they first came into office. In both instances they apologised and Mr Singh noted the same mistake was not repeated and it was put right the following year. Mr Singh said that this time, A public apology for forgetting the Gurpurb of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and a promise that the same mistake will not to be repeated will simply not be good enough. He added, this can only be described as another blunder that could easily have been avoided. A Labour Party spokesman acknowledged the oversight but said that, The Labour Party was pleased to send its best wishes to the Sikh community on the occasion of Guru Nanak Dev Jis birth anniversary this week through its multiple social media accounts. Labour is proud to have 11 Sikh MPs following this years election. The British Sikh community is an important contributor to fixing the foundations of our country and delivering change. Together, we will rebuild Britain. Keir Starmer gets some work done on one of his frequent flights during his first few months as PM. Photograph: Stefan Rousseau/PA No sooner had Keir Starmer got the keys to No 10 than the new prime minister was out of the country at the Nato summit in Washington. When the prime minister returns from the G20 in Brazil this week, he will have been out of the country for 26 days five working weeks in just under five months in office. By the end of the month, Starmer will have taken at least 10 overseas trips, more than any Conservative PM in a similar timeframe. The regularity of the prime minister jetting out of the country has alarmed some in No 10. Voters are starting to notice it too, according to Luke Tryl, of the polling firm More in Common, who said people in focus groups had started mentioning Starmer always seems to be abroad. So where has the prime minister been travelling to? Washington DC, 9-11 July Starmer had been prime minister for just five days when he flew to the US to attend the Nato summit, his first meeting with the US president . Plenty of world leaders, many facing electoral difficulties, were said to be keen to meet Starmer on the sidelines to discuss his tactics. Berlin, 14 July Hardly an onerous trip for the new prime minister, the visit to Berlin was to watch England in the final of Euro 2024, though he was not a lucky charm for the team, who lost 2-1 to Spain. Paris, 27 July Starmer attended the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics, catching a flight over the Channel after arson attacks on the railways. He met Team GB athletes but held no bilateral meeting with President Emmanuel Macron. Berlin, 28 July The prime ministers first solo bilateral trip with a European leader was to the German capital with the chancellor, Olaf Scholz, a fellow centre-leftist whose political coalition has since collapsed. The purpose of the visit was ostensibly to announce the beginning of negotiations for a defence pact, similar to that negotiated with France, but Starmer framed it as the start of work to reset relations with Europe after the turmoil of the Brexit years. Paris, 28 August Starmer had spent a month back in the UK by the time he departed again for the Paralympics opening ceremony, having spent the intervening weeks dealing with the Southport attack and the ensuing far-right riots. There was more official business this time a bilateral meeting with Macron and a roundtable with French business leaders. Dublin, 7 September Taoiseach Simon Harris hosted Starmer for a flying visit and bilateral meeting. Starmer is said to have been most keen to improve relations with Ireland above any other nation, after difficult divisions during Brexit under the Conservatives. Washington, 13 September Starmer flew for his second meeting with the US president, Joe Biden, at the White House for a surprise visit shortly before the Labour conference, an unexpected trip having met Biden already at the Nato summit. The meeting was said to have been prompted by a desire to persuade Biden to allow Ukraine to use western missiles inside Russian territory, though the decision was delayed. Italy, 16 September Starmer met Giorgia Meloni on a similar mission to persuade the Italian prime minister to back the use of missiles by Ukraine inside Russia. Starmer said also the UK wanted to learn from Italy how to tackle illegal migration. New York, 24-27 September It was very much in the balance whether Starmer would attend the UN general assembly, which clashed with the end of the Labour conference. Initially aides thought he would not attend. It became clear why it was prioritised Starmer secured a meeting with Donald Trump in New York for dinner with his foreign secretary, David Lammy, a former harsh critic of Trump. After Trumps election, the president-elect is said to have reminisced fondly about the dinner. Brussels, 2 October Another trip as part of the Europe reset Starmer met the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and promised regular visits. Berlin, 18 October Another trip to Berlin this time for the so-called quad meeting of world leaders, including Biden and Macron, who discussed the killing of the Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. Samoa, 24-26 October The Commonwealth heads of government meeting involved a 27-hour flight the week before the budget. Some quarters strongly argued that Starmer should not go, with travel time and jet lag being key factors. But it was too politically risky for him to miss the first summit with King Charles. Budapest, 7 November The Budapest summit was the meeting of the European Political Community (EPC), one that, again, some critics said Starmer could have decided to miss. But it was an opportunity for Starmer to meet Ukraines president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Paris, 11 November Starmer was the first British prime minister since Winston Churchill to attend the French Armistice Day commemorations. But the event was also billed as a European moment, which would be symbolic in the wake of Trumps election victory. Azerbaijan, 12 November Starmer attended Cop29 , the UN climate change conference, one of the few high-profile world leaders to do so. He announced an ambitious emissions target of 81% reduction by 2035. Rio de Janeiro, 18-19 November The prime minister will jet off yet again for the G20 summit of world leaders, an opportunity to meet those from further afield including potential leaders of India and China. But many of the world leaders he will meet, including Biden, Scholz and Justin Trudeau, are set for imminent departure or defeat. Sir Keir Starmer on his way on Sunday to the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Stefan Rousseau/PA Sir Keir Starmer insisted he had no plans to speak with Vladimir Putin as Olaf Scholz faced a growing backlash over his call with the Russian president. While failing to directly criticise the German chancellor, the Prime Minister offered no endorsement of Mr Scholzs phone call with Putin. Its a matter for Chancellor Scholz who he speaks to. I have no plans to speak to Putin, Sir Keir told reporters as he made his way to the G20 summit on Sunday in Rio de Janeiro. Donald Tusk, Polands prime minister, said a large-scale overnight attack on Ukraine proved no one will stop Putin with phone calls and that telephone diplomacy cannot replace real support from the whole West. Mr Scholz has defended his Friday call to Putin, saying it would not be good if Donald Trump, the US president-elect, was in regular contact with the Russian leader without any European dialogue. But he reiterated his countrys support for Ukraine and said nothing can be decided without Kyivs consent. Moscow launched more than 210 missiles and drones across Ukraine on Saturday night, damaging energy and military infrastructure. The attack caused Polands air forces to scramble all on-duty fighter jets, reaching the highest state of readiness, according to the operational command of the countrys armed forces. The attack, which killed at least seven people, was Putins response to those who called and visited him recently, said Andrii Sybiha, Ukraines foreign minister. Mr Scholzs call with Putin has not gone down well in Kyiv. Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraines president, said it would open a Pandoras box, while the foreign ministry said it would give Putin hope of easing his international isolation. What is needed are concrete, strong actions that will force him to peace, not persuasion and attempts at appeasement, which he sees as a sign of weakness and uses to his advantage, a spokesman said. Finland, which joined Nato in 2023, was also critical of Mr Scholzs call. Elina Valtonen, Finlands foreign minister, said: The most important thing is that we understand that we should not once again vie for the Kremlins attention. This will not help if the heads of European states make coordinated or uncoordinated phone calls with Putin, she told ARD Europe magazine. However, Justin Trudeau, Canadas prime minister, suggested he was in favour of opening a dialogue. We all understand how important it is to see an end to the violence in Ukraine, to see an end to conflicts around the world, he told Bloomberg during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Peru. That requires a level of engagement with counterparts who in many cases we disagree with. In the call, Mr Scholz told Putin to negotiate with Ukraine to restore a just and lasting peace, a German government spokesman said. But he said the call showed him that little had changed in Putins attitude towards the war. Putin told Mr Scholz that Russia was willing to consider fresh energy deals with Germany. Berlin was heavily reliant on Russian gas before war broke out in February 2022 but direct shipments stopped when pipelines under the Baltic Sea were blown up later that year. Mr Trumps election victory has sparked fears in Europe that Kyiv may be forced into accepting a peace deal with Russia, after he promised to end the conflict on day one of his new administration. Mr Zelensky admitted last week the war would end faster with Mr Trump, who is reported to have spoken with Putin, in charge of the White House. The war will end, but there is no exact date, he told local radio. Certainly, with the policies of this team that will now lead the White House, the war will end sooner. Stephen Flynn is currently leader of the SNP in Westminster - Leon Neal/Getty Images Stephen Flynn has declared that Holyrood needs him after his bid to oust a sitting MSP and claim her seat provoked bitter nationalist infighting. The SNPs Westminster leader on Sunday defended his controversial bid to enter the Scottish Parliament at the 2026 elections while remaining an MP, and did not deny ambitions to succeed John Swinney. His manoeuvring has provoked a major backlash, particularly as his bid to stand in the Aberdeen South and North Kincardine seat would mean replacing an SNP colleague, Audrey Nicoll. He said a report that he had privately suggested to Ms Nicoll she could stand aside to make way for him was a lie. However, he insisted he wanted a wee bit of that action at the Scottish Parliament in comments that will do little to counter allegations from his critics of arrogance. When it was put to Mr Flynn on BBC Scotlands The Sunday Show by host Martin Geissler that you obviously think Holyrood needs you, he replied: Of course I do. Audrey Nicoll has had to rebuff claims that she is a lazy MP - Ken Jack/Getty Images Emma Roddick, the SNP MSP and former equalities minister, branded Mr Flynn a pck in a cryptic social media post criticising his candidacy. There were reports at the weekend that the SNP Holyrood group was united in its anger against the partys senior MP. The SNP has a rule against parliamentarians sitting in Holyrood and Westminster simultaneously, which would have to be scrapped to allow Mr Flynn to stand for Holyrood in 2026 as a serving MP. Theres always going to be a strong reaction to someone seeking to do things slightly differently, Ive experienced this before in politics, Mr Flynn, who launched a successful coup to replace Ian Blackford as the SNPs Westminster leader in 2022, said. Its not something which is particularly pleasant, its not something which is particularly comfortable, particularly when youre dealing with people who you know really well. Im not going to shy away, Im not going to be hounded out, from standing for what I believe in which is to represent the people of Aberdeen South and North Kincardine in Holyrood. He suggested his plan to remain at Westminster was motivated by a desire to spare the public purse and rival political parties the cost of holding a by-election. If Mr Flynn is allowed to challenge Ms Nicoll, the candidate would be chosen in a vote of local members. On Sunday, Shirley-Anne Somerville, the SNP social justice secretary, issued a public plea for an end to briefings from different factions within the party. Infantile It followed an SNP source describing Ms Roddick as a rubbish MSP who has achieved nothing and denouncing her as lazy in a Sunday newspaper. Ms Roddick responded by detailing a series of activities and engagement she had recently taken part in as part of another busy week. She had last week criticised Mr Flynns attempt to sit in both Holyrood and Westminster in a post on X, writing five sentences beginning with the words P, R, I, C and K. Sources close to Ms Roddick have confirmed the insult was deliberate, with other SNP insiders branding the stunt infantile. The SNP introduced a rule for the 2021 Holyrood elections banning so-called double jobbing. It required MPs to stand down from Westminster first if they wanted to contest a Holyrood seat. Mr Flynn claimed the rules, widely seen at the time as an attempt to block Joanna Cherry, a critic of Nicola Sturgeon, from entering Holyrood, were election specific and therefore did not preclude him from standing. He added: If the leadership of the party determine that they dont want me on the pitch at the Holyrood elections, I will continue to do my job of campaigning heart and soul for the SNP from the bench or from the stands. Asked whether he wanted to succeed Mr Swinney as party leader, Mr Flynn said he was ambitious but did not believe there would be a vacancy for a long time. Assistant manager Freja Haulrik poses with some on the sweets at ScandiKitchen in London. Photograph: Sophia Evans/The Observer Swedes love sweets. So when an American TikToker sparked a craze for Swedish candy this year, there was pride that an important part of national culture was being recognised around the world. The Danes may have Ozempic but the Swedes have lordagsgodis Saturday sweets where families chew through more than 1kg of sticky treats in an evening. That pride has given way to some irritation. Supplies of some Swedish sweets ran dry in the autumn due to the high demand in the US, South Korea and in Scandinavia. And there was another factor, an equally important Swedish tradition: the six-week summer holiday. The trend started to really increase during the spring but unfortunately we didnt have enough safety stock before the summer, said Niclas Arnelin, a director at Orkla, maker of the Bubs sweets which are now in short supply. During summer, we need to let people in the factory have their vacations by law, and we also close the factory for maintenance. We sold everything we produced over the summer. And after that we ran out. Bubs was forced to reduce to a much slimmer assortment, he said, reducing the number of types of sweets it makes in order to ramp up supply. Machines need to be reset to make different sweets, eating up production time, so focusing on just three lines allowed them to meet demand. Just about. The craze began when Marygrace Graves, a New York marketer, filmed herself visiting BonBon, a confusingly-named Swedish sweet shop in Brooklyn, and indulging in some picknmix a pastime that is unfamiliar to most Americans, according to Arnelin. Millions of views later, BonBon now has queues outside and Americans have adopted the term candy salad. A new firm, Skandy, is offering weekly deliveries of sweets in Britain. In Sweden, Bubs are being rationed out to shops in a Sweden-first policy and Swedes are asking visitors to see if they can find any at home. We have Bubs, said Jonas Aurell, who runs ScandiKitchen in central London. Like everyone we were struggling to get hold of it, but we work with the supplier. Aurell and his wife, Bronte, opened ScandiKitchen 17 years ago, partly because they were missing lordagsgodis. I couldnt get my kilo a week, he said. Our main market is Scandinavian expats when youre homesick, the idea of getting some sweets is obviously a big thing for us. Lordagsgodis is an extension of another Scandinavian concept, lagom not too little, not too much, says Bronte Aurell. Weve been brought up that you eat sweets once a week, she said. Its alright to pig out, but you only do it once a week. As a Dane, Bronte prefers to do things slightly differently. We do it on Fridays, she said. But its basically the same all over Scandinavia. The tradition began in the 1950s when the Swedish medical authorities were trying to combat rising tooth decay and said sugar should be eaten just once a week. The idea is now a cherished part of the culture. Lagom means you have a balance, you have personal responsibility, she said. If Im going to have a cardamom bun for lunch, maybe I should have a salad for dinner. Downstairs at ScandiKitchen, the picknmix display is tended by assistant manager Freja Haulrik, another Dane, who makes sure that the Salta Katten (salty liquorice cats), the Vattenmelon (watermelon jellies) and Amerikanska Pastiller (chocolate buttons) are properly arranged. Its looking pretty good, she says. Over the summer we had no delivery for six weeks. Youve caught us on a good day. Although, she frowns and points at the box of liquorice chalks, there are two liquorices next to each other. She shakes her head. You have to space it out. Starmer remains upbeat about the UKs climate policy - MATTHEW HORWOOD/GETTTY Sir Keir Starmer has insisted that the election of Donald Trump has not rendered Britains efforts to achieve Net Zero effectively worthless. The Prime Minister said the UK will forge ahead with its green targets even as the US is expected to vastly scale back its climate ambitions. He was speaking en route to the G20 summit, in Brazil, where he is expected to meet with Joe Biden, the outgoing President, for the last time. The president-elect has savaged the Democrats green agenda, which has seen billions of dollars poured into subsidising renewable energy. He has named a fracking executive as his new energy secretary and is expected to kickstart a fresh boom in US production of oil and natural gas. Both he and Javier Milei, the right-wing Argentinian leader, are also said to be attempting to block any new agreements on climate at the G20 summit. Donald Trump is expected to preside over a boom in US oil and gas production - CHRIS UNGER Sir Keir was asked whether the pairs actions effectively sounded the death knell for the fight for the environment on an international level. The Prime Minister replied: No, I dont think so. In addition to this being an obligation, which is on all of us to play our part, it is also the single biggest set of opportunities that we have as a country to get ahead on the economy. I think this is a huge opportunity, its obvious to me that global investors also think its a huge opportunity. I intend to be in the race for those chops to win those contracts, and I want to win that race in the UK, because I think itll be a real important game changer for our economy. Britain produces less than one percent of global emissions, while the US accounts for 12.6pc and is the worlds second largest polluter behind China. Sir Keir insisted the green revolution will create jobs in the UK, saying he wanted to increase the number of wind turbines manufactured domestically. Javier Milei and Trump are said to be attempting to block any new agreements on climate at the G20 summit - TOMAS CUESTA His remarks came after Downing Street faced criticism over its decision to take 470 delegates to last weeks COP climate summit in Azerbaijan. The Prime Minister and Ed Miliband, the Energy Secretary, were accompanied by a huge retinue as they made the 5,000-mile round-trip to Baku. Critics accused Sir Keir of hypocrisy as he used his speech to urge other countries to come forward with ambitious targets of their own on reducing emissions. Graham Stringer, a former Labour minister, told the Mail on Sunday the trip was symbolic of the hypocrisy of the Net Zero policy. There are more private jets and large jets going to Baku than anywhere else at the moment. Its a complete waste of money, he said. Every night I scream in silence. Every morning, I cry on my way to work, says Samerano, the mother of hostage Jonathan Samerano - Oren Ziv Last month, Israel passed a bill banning the UN relief agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) from activity within Israel and, more significantly, cutting all ties between the organisation and the Israeli government. UNRWA are still operating within Gaza, but the IDF, who coordinates the entry of aid into the region, will no longer work with them. Among the organisations that distribute aid, UNRWA was, until now, responsible for 13 per cent of relief, with the UN World Food Programme contributing 50 per cent. The bill follows allegations by the Israeli government earlier this year that 19 UNRWA workers helped perpetrate the Oct 7 massacre and that a further 100 of their employees are members of terrorist groups. In August, an investigation by the UNs own watchdog dismissed nine of those workers. (Muhammad Abu Attawi, a commander in Hamass special operations division and leader of the Nova massacre, has also since been found to have been an UNRWA driver.) Another blot on the organisation came in June when former hostage Ditza Heiman stated in a court testimony that she was held in an UNRWA school teachers home. The ban, however, caused outrage from many, including Keir Starmer who said he was gravely concerned. Other political voices were more supportive, including Robert Jenrick who reiterated that he staunchly opposed the UKs involvement with UNRWA, referring to the 35 million of UK funding the organisation received last year. For Israeli mother Ayelet Samerano, 53, the veto was the first positive piece of news she had heard in 13 months. The last Samerano saw of her son was on Oct 7 last year, in a video showing 21-year-old Jonathan lying seemingly lifeless in the middle of a road outside Kibbutz Beeri. A video clip posted by Hamas shows a truck pulling up, two men hauling him from the ground and throwing his limp body into their boot, his shoeless feet shoved against its sides. Despite looking unconscious at the time, and later being told he had been killed, Samerano says she is yet to receive conclusive proof, as no body has ever been found. My fear is doubled, she says of not knowing whether she is fighting for his release or to be reunited with his remains. Its an awful way to live. The clip shows the 21-year-olds limp body being hauled across the ground - Shutterstock In the immediate aftermath of Hamass attack, Samerano was only told the name of the man who had taken her eldest child Faisal Ali Musalam Naami. But in February, during an interview with a reporter, she learnt that he was in fact an UNRWA employee, and that he was driving an agency vehicle. Israeli officials found that Naami, along with 18 other staff, had participated in the Oct 7 attacks (The UNs investigative body said there was insufficient evidence in 10 of the cases). UNRWA has lost legitimacy and can no longer function as a UN body, Israels defence minister said at the time, stating that other agencies would need to step in instead. At the end of October, following the passing of the bill, Oren Marmorstein, a spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Israel, explained: The Hamas terrorist organisation has infiltrated UNRWA in Gaza widely and deeply. Israel remains committed to international law and to ensuring the flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza, through international organisations that are free of terrorist activity. Samerano had never heard of the agency prior to that reporters call, but has since made it her business to understand it. They are teaching children from the moment they are born to hate people, she says. Reports have previously found that in UNRWA-run schools, textbooks described jihad as achieving martyrdom; others did not acknowledge Israel on the world map. Its really sick, she says of Naami. Hes a social worker; a social worker committing terror, and kidnapping a citizen. The employees accused of having Hamas links were dismissed, and funding from the likes of the US briefly paused while investigations were carried out. But Samerano is understandably furious about the global cash flow being resumed. The money is not going to help the Gazan people she says. Its going to [fund] terror. Speaking out publicly about UNRWA is the latest in what has been more than a year of unbearable tasks for Samerano, who travels the world campaigning for Hamas to release the hostages, hoping it might bring her closer to finding out what happened to Jonathan. Every night I scream in silence. Every morning, I cry on my way to work. Every waking moment, I think about my son, and I live like that through each day, over and over again, she told an audience in Switzerland three months ago, where she had travelled to lobby the chief of UNRWA to put pressure on Hamas to release her son and other hostages. During one protest in Switzerland, she held a photo of Jonathan aloft while shouting UNRWA kidnapped my son! only to have it snatched by an elderly protester, and dumped in the bin. Samerano at a news conference hosted by the Hostages Families Forum - Reuters Its like a bicycle, she tells me of the constant juggernaut of global events; this need to speak her boy into existence while the world seems intent on moving on. When Im doing that, I can keep myself up. When I stop, I will fall. So this is, for me, bringing me a lot of strength that in other ways, maybe I dont have. Samerano says of Jonathan, or Jonty, as he was known to family and friends: He was smiling all the time. He had a special charm. And with this charm, everybody wanted to be with him wherever we arrived, the doors were open and everybody wanted to help him. Samerano becomes emotional recalling what might have been Jonathans final hours. He and his two friends fled the Nova festival immediately when rockets appeared in the skies early that Saturday. They went in search of a bomb shelter, pulling up at Kibbutz Beeri, where they planned to wait out the attacks. But they arrived at the same time as Hamas terrorists, who shot at their car before entering the kibbutz. The terrorists would go on to kill 96 civilians including children, and take a further 26 hostage from the kibbutz. Samerano and the families of the two other young men saw the news unfolding from Tel Aviv, and called them relentlessly, unable to get through. After four days of anguish, her brother sent her a video posted by Hamas, showing the young men on the ground, and Jonathans abduction. They assumed the UNRWA vehicle used to drive him away had been commandeered by Hamas militants, learning around 100 days later that Naami had been an active participant. Israeli authorities say that of the 251 people taken captive by Hamas last year, more than 60 may still be alive, while the bodies of a further 35 remain in Gaza. Not knowing which grim camp her son falls into has left Samerano in an unimaginable limbo. I dont know for sure if he is alive or dead, she says, the picture of him on the wall beside her the closest she has been to him since she drove him to meet his friends on Oct 6 last year. Every day Im afraid, she admits, voice wavering. If he is alive, will I succeed in bringing him back alive? And if he is not alive, what will happen? Her mind pinballs between each devastating possibility. That there were no reports of bullet wounds or his blood found has led her to imagine that he might still be captive. Or, he is dead and beneath the ground somewhere. Samerano travels the world campaigning for Hamas to release its hostages - Reuters The picture of Jonathan was created by Samerano by a friend of his, the T-shirt bearing a lyric from his favourite song: It was the smile in your eyes. Jonathan was the same, she says. With his smile, he could do everything, his mother says. They spoke up to ten times a day. He told me everything, she says, calling her at midnight wanting to trade thoughts on the latest idea that gripped him. Their relationship was very, very tight. Very. I say that they never cut the cord, she laughs. An event producer, just prior to his capture he had told his mother that he hoped to try and make it in New York. He wanted to do so many things, says Samerano, including launching a brand featuring the limited edition T-shirts he had made for each event. In his absence, she plans to create that line for him. He was born creative, she adds; his various schemes lodged in the minds of his many friends. One messaged Samerano on Oct 7 this year, remembering an exploit proposed by her son then 10 to convince his school friends to travel en masse to Eilat, 350km from their home. The gaggle of kids at the Sameranos after school each day asked him if he was crazy, but Jonathan was unbowed, reasoning: Its just one bus line. Those words espoused his philosophy exactly, says Samerano. Everything for him was just one bus line. He made everything he wanted; he wasnt afraid thats why he was so successful. The friend who messaged last month, while travelling in Nepal, felt those words all the more acutely with Jonathan gone, he said. Im taking this philosophy from now on. And Im not afraid of anything; I will do everything. Moments like this provide a rare bit of comfort for Samerano, who has spent the past year rallying for Jonathan, his devastated girlfriend, her husband and younger son. Her friends urge her to take care of herself; to get a massage, or go to the beach, but I cant. I really cant. I cant imagine it, she says. My son is in Gaza, how can I rest? People cannot understand it, but its in your mind twenty four hours [a day]. Its going with you everywhere. These things that are good for the soul, as well-wishers suggest, are ultimately meaningless, she feels. The best thing for my soul now is to bring him back. In June, on Jonathans 22nd birthday, the Sameranos threw him a party the first time that any such celebration had occurred since the attack eight months earlier, she says; before then the grief had proven too overwhelming. Three thousand people showed up. At the beginning it was hard for me, but it was amazing, Samerano reflects. It was the first time after Oct 7 that those people came and danced. For us, it was, wow, [this is] the best thing we could do for Jonathan while hes there. Life before and since has yielded less optimism, with Samerano left only to persist, unaware whether her efforts are in vain: Im hoping for a miracle. Police are searching for Pankaj Lamba in connection with the murder of his wife Harshita Brella An international manhunt is under way for the husband of a woman found murdered in the boot of a car in east London. The body of Harshita Brella was discovered almost 100 miles away from her home in Corby, Northamptonshire, inside a vehicle in Brisbane Road, Ilford, on Thursday. Northamptonshire Police said it was looking for Pankaj Lamba, the 24-year-olds husband, in connection with the killing. He is believed to have fled the country. Earlier, it emerged that a court order, lasting only 28 days, was put in place in September banning a man from visiting the 24 year-old at her workplace. Chief Insp Paul Cash, of Northamptonshire Police, said: Our inquiries lead us to suspect that Harshita was murdered in Northamptonshire earlier this month by her husband, Pankaj Lamba. We suspect Lamba transported Harshitas body from Northamptonshire to Ilford by car. We believe he has now fled the country. CCTV still from police show Pankaj Lamba wearing a white T-shirt, green coat, grey tracksuit bottoms and white trainers - NORTHAMPTONSHIRE POLICE/PA Police released an image of Mr Lamba and urged anyone with any information that may assist inquiries, no matter how small, to contact the force. A domestic violence protection order, designed to protect victims of domestic violence, was issued at Northampton magistrates court. The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was prevented by the order from molesting her, threatening violence or intimidating, harassing and pestering her. He was also told not to encourage or instruct others to contact her in any way. The order was served by Northamptonshire Police and implemented by magistrates, the Northamptonshire Telegraph reported. Harshita Brella was the subject of a court order designed to protect people against domestic violence - Terry Harris/Terry Harris No formal charges against the same man have since been recorded by the court. He was released following a hearing, but ordered to pay the full costs. Since the body was found, police have maintained Ms Brella was killed by someone who was known to her and there was no wider risk to the public. A referral has been made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) over prior contact with Ms Brella. Officers were alerted to the fact Ms Brella might be in danger on Nov 13. Northamptonshire Police went to her home address in Skegness Walk in Corby, but received no answer at the door. Detectives carrying out a search of the couples property in Corby - TERRY HARRIS A sweep was conducted inside the couples home and in the surrounding area - TERRY HARRIS A missing person investigation was launched and, after enquiries were fast-tracked, her body was found in Ilford on Thursday, some 95 miles away from the multiple occupancy house she lived in. A post mortem examination, which took place at Leicester Royal Infirmary on Friday, confirmed that she had been murdered, but no arrests have yet been made. Det Chief Insp Johnny Campbell, the senior investigating officer from East Midlands special operations major crime unit (EMSOU), said on Saturday: First of all, I want to express my heartfelt condolences to everyone who loved Harshita Brella. She was a young woman in her early 20s with her whole life ahead of her and it is absolutely tragic that her life has been cut short in this way. Detectives from EMSOU and Northamptonshire Police are working around the clock to establish the circumstances behind her death, including the exact location and timeframe in which it took place. An IOPC spokesman said: We will be assessing the referral to decide whether or not any investigation by the IOPC is required. I am grateful for what I am and have. My thanksgiving is perpetual. Henry David Thoreau As we approach our unique American holiday of Thanksgiving, where Americans eat 46 million turkeys and, perhaps, give thanks before football and a food stupor, I have a few thankful thoughts. I am thankful for President Abraham Lincoln who in 1863 made Thanksgiving a national holiday. In the midst of a bloody civil war, Lincoln understood the need to remind Americans that better days lay ahead as the nation grappled with the horrors of slavery and fought to live up to its ideals. I am thankful for the wonderful bird who represents this American holiday. Although the turkeys most of us eat come from farms and are little better than more rotund chickens, the wild turkey is an amazing creature that deserves more credit. Wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) were first domesticated by the Mayan peoples of what is now Mexico around 800 B.C. and is one of only two birds native to North America that has been regularly domesticated, the other being the Muscovy duck. Wild Turkey. Photographer We dont know if the Pilgrims actually ate turkey on the first Thanksgiving in November 1621. The only items we know for sure that the Pilgrims ate were venison, corn, and wildfowl. The wildfowl on the menu may well have been ducks, geese, or even passenger pigeons, not turkeys. But turkeys quickly became a favorite American dish at Thanksgiving, Christmas and any other time one could hunt a wild turkey. Predictably their numbers crashed. By 1940, there may have been as few as 30,000 wild turkeys left in the United States. But today, successful restoration efforts have led to approximately 6.5 million wild turkeys in the U.S. I recently visited Harvard University where wild turkeys have reconquered Harvard Square adding egg-layers to the eggheads. Benjamin Franklin was wise when he suggested the turkey, not the eagle, become our national bird. Wild turkeys can run at speeds up to 25 miles per hour and fly briefly up to 55 miles per hour. Domesticated turkeys cannot fly. If pressured, turkeys can swim by tucking their wings in close, spreading their tails, and kicking. So, I am thankful we still have abundant turkeys around to enjoy as both a culinary and environmental feast. But most of all, I am thankful for anyone reading this column or local newspapers in general. Newspapers have been an industry particularly hard hit by the internet revolution. According to the Pew Research Center, in 2024 just 26% of U.S. adults say they often or sometimes get news in print. This historically low number is troubling. As a historian, I know that the American Revolution was fomented by small local newspapers pointing out the iniquities of a petty tyrant an ocean removed from the people he subjugated. The nation that resulted had a robust free press that kept its citizen rulers informed about current events, political issues, and the world at large. Other sources of news have yet to match that standard and may have different, less lofty, goals. So, thank you for your support of newspapers and this column over the last eight years. Mark Madison, a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Historian, lives in Hagerstown and still reads the local paper every morning. This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: Turkeys are the well-deserved symbol of Thanksgiving A gleeful atmosphere likely pervades the Kremlin these days following the US elections, while gloom and desperation are growing in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities. Ukrainian Christians draw little comfort from knowing that their American brothers and sisters voted for their anti-abortion candidate when, as they see it, "the election outcome gave Putin hope to establish his new world order, which would include lifting all the sanctions against Russia and consuming Ukraine." With those words, Ira Kapitonova, our YWAM colleague in Kyiv, described her countrys prospects this week, continuing: Appeasement never works. "That was evident from (Putins) recent speech. These demands seem ridiculous, but weve been living in this madmans world for a while, and nothing seems surprising anymore. Were praying the world would remember that appeasement never works. Weve seen it with Nazi Germany in the 1930s, but weve also seen it with Russia in Georgia (2008) and Crimea and Eastern Ukraine (2014). The world may be tired of the war in Ukraine, and fast solutions may seem tempting, but it would only bring the war closer to the homes of people in Western Europe. Poland, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, and Finland may become next if Russia is not stopped in Ukraine. A bully only understands the language of power, and seeing NATOs reluctance or exceeding caution only urges him to try harder." "Insane terrorism" Ira describes the ordeal millions of Ukrainians experience daily: "Its night, and we are in our apartment corridor again. Recent drone attacks show that the Russians started using thermobaric warheads (vacuum bombs) to increase damage and casualties among civilians. Ive noticed that I stopped checking the news in the morning. I still check to see if there is an air raid, but Ive realized over the past month or two that every night brings destruction and death to civilians in cities away from the combat zone, so its something I know for sure now, and theres no need to check it. Getting desensitized? Maybe. But is it possible not to after almost 1,000 days of insane terrorism?" People reported drones stalking them in the streets. A German news outlet reported: "Since the US election at the beginning of November alone, deadly murderous drone and missile attacks have increased by 44% increasingly targeting the population and civilian energy infrastructure. This is also psychological terror. People reported drones stalking them in the streets. Thousands are without electricity heating and shelter. People are getting desperate." For years now, Yale historian Timothy Snyder has been consistently warning about the threats to democracy, pluralism and wealth inequality through his books including "On Tyranny", "On Freedom", "The Road to Unfreedom". Threats come not only from the Kremlin, he writes, but also from populist, autocratic, illiberal politicians everywhere. In response to the controversial appointments proposed this week by the president-elect for the five key zones of health, law, administration, defense, and intelligence, Snyder cautions that this group of people, if appointed, could bring an end to the United States of America. Snyder is no alarmist and extremist. But he urges citizens, regardless of how they voted, now to check their attitudes. "This is no longer a post-electoral moment. It is a pre-catastrophic moment." Surprised Ukraine has been here before. Early in 2022, it seemed as if nothing could stop the amassed Russian forces from invading and subduing the whole land. This remains the Kremlins goal: firstly, that Ukraine drop its bid to join NATO, and that Russias sovereignty should be accepted over the four regions and Crimea that were unilaterally annexed by Russia. Ultimately, to subdue a free, democratic, western-oriented neighbor under her control. While President Zelensky still refuses to cede any Ukrainian territory, including Crimea, he is aware that without White House support he cannot win the war and appears more ready now to resolve the conflict through diplomacy. The unpredictable American president-elect has repeatedly claimed to end the war "within 24 hours"without revealing how. Ira and other Ukrainians fear he will enforce cessation of territory, and a pause in fighting until Russia can rebuild their forces to resume long term goals for Ukraine and other former satellites later. Yet the world was surprised in February 2022 when a diminutive television comedian emerged as a resolute war president undaunted by overwhelming odds. Few expected that today, almost 1,000 days later, the nation would still be holding off Big Brother. Let us continue to pray for more moments of grace, and a just and lasting end to this war, joining the Ukrainian president in his Easter 2022 prayer for God: "to protect those who protect us, to save the lives of those who save the lives of others, to look after our mothers, to grant health to our grandmothers, to protect our fathers and grandfathers, to take care of our children, to save all Ukrainians, to save us from strife and division, to strengthen our will and our spirit, and not let us lose our Ukraine, nor our faith." Nothing will stop Ukrainian churches from worshiping our Savior and Lord. Postscript: I just received the following WhatsApp message from Yuriy, a pastor in Kyiv, reporting on early Sunday morning's (November 17) attacks: This is the first large-scale Sunday shelling of Ukraine since the beginning of the war. Aerial and ballistic missiles, drones and planesnothing will stop Ukrainian churches from worshiping our Savior and Lord this morning together! Your prayer is greatly appreciated! Originally published by Weekly Word. Republished with permission. Jeff Fountain and his wife Romkje are the initiators of the Schuman Centre for European Studies. They moved to Amsterdam in December 2017 after living in the Dutch countryside for over 40 years engaged with the YWAM Heidebeek training centre. Romkje was founder of YWAM The Netherlands and chaired the national board until 2013. Jeff was YWAM Europe director for 20 years, until 2009. Jeff chaired the annual Hope for Europe Round Table until 2015, while Romkje chaired the Women in Leadership network until recently. Jeff is author of Living as People of Hope, Deeply Rooted and other titles, and also writes weekly word, a weekly column on issues relating to Europe. Anduril's CEO said he hopes Trump's plan to slash government bureaucracy will boost the defense industry. Illustration by Omar Marques/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images Anduril, founded by Palmer Luckey, is developing AI-powered drones for the military. Anduril says Trump's promise to cut bureaucracy could make defense contracts simpler. Others in the defense industry are less optimistic. Tech billionaire Palmer Luckey's bet on the defense industry is paying off at Anduril, the drone-making company he founded. Now, the company says President-elect Donald Trump's promise to slash government bureaucracy will open the doors even wider. Brian Schrimf, Anduril's CEO, told Yahoo News this week that Trump's promise of "streamlining the bureaucracy" in the government is one of the first steps to improving efficiency in the defense contracting process. "There's just so many roles, so many things that make it hard to do what we really need to do as a country, to move out, to take risks, to actually just build the military we need to have," Schrimpf told the outlet. Analysts told Business Insider that revamping the defense contract process, however, would be difficult. "It's not like the defense secretary can say, 'eliminate all bureaucracy and issue a contract in 30 days,' and everyone says 'absolutely we'll get everything done in 30 days," Scott Sacknoff, president of aerospace and defense investment firm Spade Index, told BI. Sacknoff said that procurement reform in the defense industry is not a new concept and that the Defense Department is always restructuring its contracting process. "I'm sure there are efficiencies that they've been working on for years," Sacknoff said. Richard Aboulafia, managing director at AeroDynamic Advisory, a consulting firm, said that reforming the defense industry will take time. "A friend of mine likes to joke; we're big believers in procurement reform; here's a headline about it from 1865," Abaulafia told BI. Anduril has turned heads in the defense contracting industry since Luckey, who first made his fortune as the founder of virtual reality company Oculus, founded it in 2017. Last month, the company unveiled the new AI-powered Bolt-M drone, which is small enough to fit in a backpack. According to DefenseScoop, a military news blog, Anduril developed the drones as part of $249 million in contracts awarded to Anduril, AeroVironment, and Teledyne FLIR to provide the Defense Department with drones that explode on impact. Schrimpf said the most important steps to improving the defense contracting process are to slash government bureaucracy and pivot to building cheaper autonomous systems. He said it would be critical for the United States to "tap into all those commercial suppliers" within the country to compete in the global defense economy. "Our approach to this has been 'OK, how do we think about uncrewed autonomous systems that can be made in a different way' how do we really tap into what's actually possible with the things that companies like Tesla have learned of how do you build at scale, build these complex things fast and cheap," Schrimpf told Yahoo. Defense tech industry leaders like Luckey and Eric Schmidt, the former Google CEO who later founded the AI drone startup White Stork, have said that AI-powered autonomous machinery is the future of warfare. At a tech event in Saudi Arabia last month, Schmidt said that "the cost of autonomy has fallen so quickly that the drone war, which is the future of conflict, will get rid of, eventually, tanks, artillery, and mortars." Sacknoff told BI that autonomous drones are "definitely a trend." "Every 20 years, the defense sector sort of goes through a cycle where, here are the new technologies that will have a greater impact on defense and military," he said. Sacknoff said the military defense business is always looking for a "counter" to the newest technology and that the growth of autonomous drones would likely bring more innovations to stop them. "The next phase will be someone and they already are working on developing the technology to be countering drones," he said. Anduril did not immediately return a request for comment. Read the original article on Business Insider OTTAWA COUNTY Did members of the Ottawa County Board violate their own contract and purchasing policies when they chose to hire W Solutions for aid in an administrator search? Several commissioners say yes. On Tuesday, Nov. 12, the board voted to approve the first reading of contracting and purchasing policy revisions, forwarded by the planning and policy committee earlier this month. Commissioner Doug Zylstra, one of the board's two Democrats, raised concern with the first paragraph of the change, which reads: All contracts for all departments, agencies and county-funded activities shall be subject to this policy. This policy shall not interfere with the independent authority of statutorily or constitutionally created county boards, although all are encouraged to align with its principles for the benefit of efficiency and best practices. Zylstra said the two sentences conflict because the county board is, in itself, county-funded, and should therefore have to adhere to policy. Commissioner Doug Zylstra listens to the public comment Tuesday, Nov. 12, at the Fillmore Complex. Jack Jordan of Kallman Legal Group deferred the concern to his colleague, who said the addition to policy was for clarity and consistency because the board technically has independent authority. When Zylstra asked for more clarification, members of KLG said the board is an exception to the policy. They claimed the added clause isn't uncommon. From my memory, concerns about these two policies arose pretty early in our term," said Vice Chair Sylvia Rhodea. "These are long-standing policies that have needed review and theyve been waiting for you to have the time and the ability to look at them. This is not (rushing) these are policies that have needed attention for a long time. Work began on the changes in July 2023 under former administrator John Gibbs, as commissioners sought to speed-up the process of pushing through contracts. The vote to move the policy forward to a second reading was approved 7-4, with Zylstra and Commissioners Chris Kleinjans, Rebekah Curran and Jacob Bonnema voting no. Zylstra had the same issue with a proposed change to the purchasing policy, which reads, This policy shall be administered by the purchasing division of the Fiscal Services Department and is designed to provide a consistent framework for procurement activities across all (county-funded) units. "However, this policy shall not be binding on, or interfere with the independent authority of, statutorily or constitutionally created county boards, although all are encouraged to align with its principles for the benefit of efficiency and best practices. If a conflict arises between this policy and any state or federal law or constitution, then the state or federal law or constitution shall control. The purchasing policy moved forward 6-5, with Commissioner Bergman joining Curran, Zylstra, Kleinjans and Bonnema. Commissioner Sylvia Rhodea listens to public comment Tuesday, Nov. 12, at the Fillmore Complex. The board also ratified all contracts from Oct. 1-31, including a contract with recruiting firm W Talent Solutions. The vote passed 7-4 with Bergman, Zylstra, Kleinjans and Bonnema again voting no. We have a purchasing policy that outlines in pretty straightforward terms what a contract looks like, what a bid process looks like, and the center of that is competitiveness, Zylstra said. Im not convinced, and I think a lot of folks are not convinced, that the process was competitive. Board Chair Joe Moss argued the board authorized the creation of an executive transition committee comprising himself, Rhodea, Gretchen Cosby, Allison Miedema and Roger Belknap all affiliated with Ottawa Impact to do things like select a recruiting firm. Zylstra said he wasn't questioning their authority, but their failure to adhere to policy. I acknowledge that you have a dispute and a difference of opinion and do not like how the process was handled, Moss said, followed by Zylstra asking if Moss thought the process outlined in the policies were followed. Moss said yes. Bergman asked if there was a request for proposals issued, a requirement of the policies. Moss claimed a request for proposals isn't required for a contract like W Talent Solutions, but didn't cite where in board policy that was outlined. Jordan did not directly respond to claims the contract failed to adhere to policy. Administration in Ottawa County has faced significant turnover over the past two years. On Jan. 3, 2023, Ottawa Impact commissioners fired previous administrator John Shay, who'd been in the job for seven months, and hired Gibbs. There was no interview process, and no other candidates were presented. Commissioner Joe Moss listens to public comment Tuesday, Nov. 12, at the Fillmore Complex. Gibbs worked for 13 months before he was fired in February, and has since sued for wrongful termination. The board fired Gibbs "for cause" after now-Interim Administrator Benjamin Wetmore and Deputy Aide Jordan Epperson made allegations that Gibbs acted inappropriately and neglected his job duties. Gibbs has refuted those allegations, saying the board retaliated against him for questioning the competency of KLG, also hired in January 2023. Ottawa Impact commissioners have been aggressive in their search for a new administrator since the first resignation of previous Interim Jon Anderson, though the selected candidate can't be given a contract of longer than a year, according to state law. The board created the Executive Transition Committee, which wasted no time selecting a recruiting agency. During the committee's first meeting, which spanned three days and recessed three times, members voted 5-0 to chose W Talent, the only firm proposed. W Talent was backed by Moss. The board's majority has refused to add discussions on the Executive Transition Committee to the regular agenda. Cassidey Kavathas is the politics and court reporter at The Holland Sentinel. Contact her at ckavathas@hollandsentinel.com. Follow her on Twitter @cassideykava. This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: Did commissioners violate their own policy in hiring W Talent Solutions? A foul-mouthed former Philippine president who jailed political rivals, insulted the pope and claims to have hired death squad gangsters is running for re-election in his hometown in a desperate bid to strengthen his scandal-hit political dynasty. Labeled Asias Trump by some commentators due to his unorthodox leadership style and bombastic rhetoric, Rodrigo Duterte is aiming for a perhaps even more unlikely political comeback than Donald Trumps seismic return to the White House. Duterte, 79, wants to return as mayor of Davao City, on the southern island of Mindanao, where he held power for more than two decades before leading the archipelago nation between 2016 and 2022. His return to politics is about more than a personal quest for power, analysts say its an attempt to shore up support for his family against the Philippines other famed political dynasty the Marcoses, who have an opposing vision for the country, particularly its relationships with the United States and China. In a political culture dominated by clan-based alliances, the Marcoses and the Dutertes made a vow of unity when Dutertes daughter, Sara Duterte-Carpio, ran for vice president alongside Ferdinand Marcos Jr. son of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos, who died in exile in 1989 after a brutal 21-year reign. The duo won a landslide victory in 2022, but not even halfway through their term the alliance is disintegrating as Duterte-Carpio faces calls for her impeachment for alleged corruption, which she denies. The Marcos-Duterte fallout has since descended into public tirades and name-calling a hallmark of Rodrigo Dutertes years as a straight-talking, filter-free president. Richard Heydarian, senior lecturer at the Asian Center of the University of the Philippines, says the older Duterte has entered the political maelstrom to bolster his familys defenses as they fight battles on several fronts. The Dutertes are at their most vulnerable moment in almost a decade, he said. Death squads and a war on drugs Duterte soared to power on a promise to replicate on a national scale his anti-crime crackdown in the familys stronghold of Davao, winning the 2016 presidential election in a landslide. In the years that followed, more than 6,000 people were killed in his war on drugs, according to police data, though independent monitors believe the number of extrajudicial killings could be much higher. Many of the victims were young men from impoverished shanty towns, shot by police and rogue gunmen as part of a campaign to target dealers. The bloodshed prompted an investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) and a monthslong House of Representatives inquiry, as well as a separate Senate inquiry led by the cousin of the current president. In a House hearing Wednesday, Duterte declared that he was finally ready to face the ICC, even urging prosecutors to hurry up and start the investigation tomorrow. In typically combative fashion, however, he also told the 12-hour long hearing that he would kick any ICC investigators who came to the Philippines to face him. Dutertes fighting talk comes after the former president made a stark admission to the Senate inquiry last month during his first public appearance in the investigations. Before an audience of millions watching on television and online, Duterte told lawmakers he hired a death squad of gangsters to kill criminals while mayor of Davao City, 600 miles (965 kilometers) from the capital Manila. I can make the confession now if you want, Duterte said. I had a death squad of seven, but they were not police, they were gangsters. But in the same hearing, Duterte distanced himself from claims he directly ordered his national police chiefs to carry out extrajudicial killings during his time as president. He also said he told police officers to encourage suspects to fight back, as legal cover for the killings. Dutertes attempts to fend off criticism come as his daughter fights calls for her impeachment over claims she misappropriated funds from both the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education. Lawmakers in September deferred the approval of budgets to her office as allied political clans at odds with the Dutertes demanded more transparency and accountability over her public spending. Families and supporters of victims of former president Duterte's war on drugs gather at the inauguration of the country's first mausoleum for the victims of extrajudicial killings in Manila, Philippines on May 1, 2024. - Jes Aznar/Getty Images Heydarian, the analyst, said Dutertes decision to run for Davao mayor marks an attempt to keep the family politically relevant, and is likely an acknowledgment that he may not have what it takes to run for a seat in the national legislature. His return to Davao may also serve to support his sons incumbent Davao mayor Sebastian Duterte and congressman Paolo Duterte who are contesting the Davao election but are viewed as out of touch with locals, Heydarian said. Its always foolish to underestimate the Dutertes given their almost fanatical base in certain parts of the country, but I think it would also not be foolish to think that the Dutertes are also now facing an existential crisis, Heydarian said. From unity to animosity The Marcos-Duterte alliance was always an unlikely one. But major cracks appeared in January, when Rodrigo Duterte called Marcos a drug addict and threatened that the president could be removed from power. Months later, Vice President Duterte-Carpio resigned as education secretary, a departure seen by analysts as a sign that the relationship between the countrys top leaders was beyond repair. All smiles in a show of unity from Sara Duterte-Carpio and Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the presidential inauguration on June 30, 2022. - Ezra Acayan/Getty Images In October, Duterte-Carpio aired a litany of grievances against the president in a two-hour livestreamed press conference, saying she wanted to chop his head off. She said the Marcoses used her to propel themselves to victory in the 2022 election. At one point, Duterte-Carpio spoke about Ferdinand Marcos Sr. the late patriarch and longtime dictator. She said she had become so incensed by the attacks on her that she wanted to dig up his body and throw it in the West Philippine Sea. Despite this, Duterte-Carpio told reporters she does not regret running for vice president under Marcos. They can drag me to hell, she said. And when they get there, I will be the president of hell. Marcos insisted he thought he and the vice president were friends. I always thought that we were, he told reporters on the sidelines of an Association of Southeast Asian Nations conference in September. But maybe I was deceived. His son, Sandro Marcos, entered the fray, saying in a rare statement that he cannot remain silent as the vice president threatens to exhume a former president and behead an incumbent one. At the heart of the feud is geopolitics, specifically how the Philippines should balance its relationships with China and the US, according to Ranjit Singh Rye, an assistant professor of political science at the University of the Philippines. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte attend an education-related event in Manila on January 25, 2024. - Kyodo News/Getty Images The incumbent Marcos administration has leaned more closely toward Washington the Philippines oldest and closest ally particularly strengthening its military alliance, in a move that reverses Dutertes pro-Beijing tilt for investment in infrastructure. Cozying up to China is believed to have led to the nefarious proliferation of the gambling and online scams industry, with alleged links to Chinese organized crime, under Dutertes administration. The leaders split views on the Philippines geopolitical standing ultimately divided the Marcos-Duterte alliance, according to Rye. The differences are irreconcilable because they both represent a different vision of where the Philippines needs to go and how the Philippines needs to be governed, Rye said. Home turf survival When Duterte filed his candidacy in Davao, he was met by a roaring crowd of supporters. I want to serve you. Davao is better than yesterday, he told reporters, implying its current progress was due to his past iron grip. The midterm elections are not until May 2025 but politicking and campaigning in the Philippines starts punishingly early, and thousands of local posts are up for grabs across the country of just under 120 million people, from district councilors and mayors to lawmakers. Cleve Arguelles, a political scientist and head of polling firm WR Numero, said the outcome could shape the political landscape for years to come. In Davao, five members of the once-mighty Duterte clan are facing off with familiar rivals. Along with Sebastian, who will be his fathers running mate, Rodrigos eldest son Paolo is seeking re-election to Congress and two of Paolos sons are running for other local seats. Political pundits are saying that at least one Duterte may make a bid for the presidency in 2028. The Dutertes are not just joining this race as regular players. This is a fight to the death. This is for their political survival, Arguelles said. The Dutertes biggest challenger in Davao is the Nograles clan, reigniting a decades-old family rivalry. The late Prospero Nograles remains the only person from Mindanao to have served as the nations House speaker. Though he only held the role for two years until 2010, the patriarch of the Nograles family built formidable ties with influential lawmakers and entrenched political elites across a decades-long career in local and national politics. Now, the next generation of Nograles politicians is running against the Dutertes in their shared hometown. Karlo Nograles is running against Rodrigo Duterte for the mayoralty while his sister, Margarita, a lawyer and rising TikTok influencer, is challenging Paolo. Karlo Nograles has said people in Davao deserve a chance to have real, meaningful and lasting change a message that could sway a portion of voters, Arguelles said. If the Dutertes lose the ballot in their home turf, its a sign that they have not been able to defend themselves from attacks on several fronts, Arguelles said. A lingering problem for the Dutertes is their relationship with Pastor Apollo Carreon Quiboloy, a self-styled appointed son of God and founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ church, who is wanted by the FBI for alleged sex trafficking. Quiboloy is a close supporter and spiritual adviser of Rodrigo Duterte, who regularly appeared on a church-linked media network when he was mayor of Davao and was accused by lawmakers of concealing Quiboloys whereabouts. The church leader was arrested in September after a weeks-long standoff involving nearly 2,000 officers who surrounded a sprawling church compound just outside Davao International Airport a massive operation for which Marcos took credit. Despite all the controversies and alleged links to extrajudicial killings and suspected criminals, Duterte has told Davao voters that a vote for him is a vote for order. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com composite image: emmanuel polanco left in a grey winter coat walking outside; right his wife Sterling Baez, Polanco's wife,in a tank top and short skirt sitting outside An NYC principal and his wife, accused masterminds behind a bilingual teacher scandal exposed by The Post, have raked in more than $500,000 in salary for the past two years while the foreign educators they recruited are forbidden to visit their families back home if they want to keep their jobs. Some 20 teachers from the Dominican Republic have been barred from traveling outside the US without losing their well-paying Department of Education jobs and enrollment in a city-paid Masters Degree program amid a federal probe of Bronx principal Emmanuel Polanco, his wife, teacher Sterling Baez, and a group of Dominican-American administrators who allegedly exploited the newcomers. The Department of Homeland Security has given the teachers, who lost their original visas in the turmoil, a Continued Presence status, which is meant for victims of human trafficking to remain in the US as potential witnesses to crimes. Under the rules, they cant travel outside the country and return pending the probe, teachers told The Post this week. Emmanuel Polanco was removed as principal of JHS 80 in The Bronx two years ago amid complaints he forced teachers from the Dominican Republic to pay rent for an apartment owned by his late mother and for rooms leased by a group of DOE administrators. Richard Harbus The last we heard was that they were still investigating, one said. Sometimes I wonder when this is going to end, because its been two years already, and we are still waiting. We dont know whats happening. said another Dominican teacher who was warned she might lose her job and protected status if she visited the DR when her mother underwent cancer surgery. We are in limbo. A third teacher, working in a Bronx high school, cant visit his family in the DR, though his wife and three kids have come to the US twice to see him in the last two years. Nobody tells us anything, he said. How long do we have to wait? All three teachers asked for anonymity, saying supervisors warned them not to speak to reporters. But they want their plight known. Sterling Baez, Polancos wife, personally collected rent from Dominican teachers for the apartment owned by her late mother-in-law. Homeland Security launched a probe in November 2022 amid complaints that Polanco, principal of JHS 80, led a shake-down scheme to force the teachers to rent overpriced rooms leased by ADASA, a fraternal group of Dominican-American administrators and threaten them with deportation if they balked. The DOE yanked Polanco from JHS 80. His wife Sterling Baez, a teacher at PS 595 in the Bronx, was also removed when it emerged she personally bagged more than $3,000 a month from three teachers told to share a Marion Avenue apartment owned by Polancos late mom. Neither has been charged with a crime. They did not return requests for comment. The DOE yanked Polanco from JHS 80. J.C.Rice Polanco and Baez have not returned to their schools, but remain on the city payroll collecting a combined $245,850 in Fiscal Year 2023 and $311,303 in FY 2024, records show. Polancos current salary is $185,112; Baez is $95,365. Polanco, as first vice president of ADASA, was a pet of then-Chancellor David Banks, who praised the group dormant since the scandal erupted for getting stuff done, using Mayor Adams mantra. But disturbing details soon emerged. ADASA put 11 teachers in a cramped two-family house on Baychester Avenue in the Bronx, charging 10 of them $1,450 a month each, and one $1,300 a month for single rooms with a shared kitchen and bath, The Post reported. The total $15,800 in revenue would net an $8,900 monthly profit over what ADASA paid to lease the duplex. Daniel Calcano, an ADASA treasurer and former assistant principal, rounded up rent payments of some $4,500 a month from three teachers and one spouse in a three -bedroom apartment on Pilgrim Avenue once banging on their doors at 11 pm. Calcano, still on the city payroll, makes $151,409 a year. Daniel Calcano, an ADASA treasurer and former assistant principal, rounded up rent payments from three Dominican teachers and one spouse required to live in a three -bedroom apartment on Pilgrim Avenue. Obtained by The New York Post Calcano, Polanco and Baez, have all been reassigned to central administrative roles, the DOE said, refusing to specify their duties, if any. Reassigned is DOE lingo for rubber-roomed, which means they do little or nothing while under investigation. Five Dominican teachers have given up their DOE jobs in frustration, and gone back to the DR permanently. The 20 remaining have since found housing on their own. They get DOE salaries of $66,000 to $75,000, plus overtime. They also attend City College for a Masters Degree in education paid by the DOE which can lead to certification and permanent status as working immigrants. A spokeswoman for Homeland Security Investigations would not answer questions about the probe: Due to law enforcement sensitivities, HSI is unable to confirm or deny the existence of an open investigation. A 44-year-old Florida woman accused of using her mothers identity to apply for hurricane aid told a Bradenton city employee that she looked so much younger because of botox, the police department said Saturday. Veronica Torres was charged with a third-degree felony count of filing a false public assistance claim after she applied for and received almost $8,000, the Bradenton Police Department said. She used her mothers ID, name and social security number to file the assistance claim, saying that she was forced to move out of her home due to hurricane damage, police said. When the Torres arrived to pick up the check Thursday a city employee challenged her on her appearance compared to the age in the application. Her explanation of botox treatments failed to convince the employee, police said in a statement. Torres was asked to return on Friday and was arrested, police said. The case did not appear to be in online court records Saturday, and it was not clear if Torres had an attorney who could speak on her behalf. She is free after posting $2,500 bond, jail records show. A phone number for Torres could not immediately be found. Bradenton is a city of around 55,000 north of Sarasota, on the state's western coast. That area was affected by powerful Hurricane Helene as it passed by in September, and in October Hurricane Milton made landfall in Siesta Key, just south of Sarasota. When an overwhelmed man came to a New Hampshire animal shelter last week hoping to surrender 150 mice, shelter employees were ready to assist. But now, the shelter is facing an enormous breeding problem, the director said because the man didnt have just 150 mice. He had 150 containers of mice. When he first arrived, he said he had 150 mice, said Lisa Dennison, executive director of the New Hampshire Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The man later clarified that he had 150 tanks with mice in them. The situation has spiraled out of control due to rapid breeding, creating a substantial problem for the homeowner and the local shelter. The breeding of the mice has just created this enormous problem for him, Dennison told CNN on Sunday. The man brought three large plastic tubs containing 73 mice to the shelter last Monday, overwhelmed by the sheer number of mice in his possession, NHSPCA said in a news release. As the week progressed, NHSPCA staff continued to make trips to his home, filling vans with additional tubs of mice. The shelter now has nearly 1,000 mice. The mice were living in filthy plastic tubs that hadnt been cleaned in what appeared to be a long time, the SPCA said. We have never seen anything like this. And the longer we wait to get all of the mice out of their terrible living conditions, the greater the likelihood is that the numbers will continue to grow, said Savannah Alcero, director of animal and veterinary services at the SPCA. With a gestation period of just around 20 days, mice can reproduce at an alarming rate. Staff and volunteers attend to surrendered pet mice at the New Hampshire SPCA. - Charles Krupa/AP Adoption coordinator Lexi Giannopoulos cradles one of nearly 1,000 mice that were surrendered in Stratham, New Hampshire. - Charles Krupa/AP Dennison, seated with stacks of containers filled with mice behind her, is working to care for the mice, find them permanent homes, and prevent further breeding. We were separating the males and females, she said. And now we have many females on pregnancy watch because they breed rapidly. So far, 18 mice have been adopted, and many others have been sent to regional welfare organizations. Elisha Murray adopted four females named Kelly, Dee, Maxine, and Eleven, despite having told her children last week, No more rodents, The Associated Press reported. Weve always had small rodents as pets rats, mice, hamsters, the whole nine so I just figured I could help out, she said. We have the whole setup, everything I need at home already, so I figured, what the hell. That is just the tip of the iceberg, Dennison said as she appealed to the public for help. Many of the mice have been given names, such as Doug, Daryl, Dude, and Deputy, while others are named after candies like M&M. Help these mice find wonderful new homes. They are great fun, Dennison urged. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com The spokesperson of the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, Mohammed Afif, was killed in an Israeli strike on Beirut on Sunday. The death of Afif, who was for years an adviser to the late Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah and had been responsible for the groups media relations since 2014, was confirmed by the militant group in a statement calling him a great media leader. Afif was at the headquarters of the pro-Hezbollah Baath Party at the time of the strike. No evacuation warning was issued before the strike, which hit an area known as Ras al-Nabaa in the middle of the day, killing four people, according to Lebanons health ministry. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said it carried out a precise, intelligence-based strike that eliminated the terrorist Mohammed Afif, the chief propagandist and spokesperson of the Hezbollah terrorist organization. Among those paying tribute to Afif was the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which sent its condolences to Afifs family and Hezbollah leadership, calling him a strong and defiant voice of resistance. On Sunday evening, another strike hit a building in Mar Elias, a densely populated Sunni-majority neighborhood near central Beirut, killing at least two people according to the Lebanese health ministry. CNN has reached out to the Israeli military for comment on the strike. With Sundays attacks, five strikes have hit inside Beiruts city limits since 2006, when a 34-day armed conflict between Israel and Hezbollah took place. Afif was one of the few public faces of Hezbollah, following a massive Israeli infiltration operation drove the group deep underground. He often delivered speeches from news conferences amid the rubble in the southern suburbs of Beirut, which have been pounded by attacks since Israel began a new offensive on October 1. Hezbollah is currently reviewing a US-Israeli ceasefire proposal submitted to the Lebanese government on Thursday, according to CNN sources familiar with the negotiations. It is unclear whether Afifs reported killing will impact the negotiations. Israels targeting of Afif comes amid an escalation in its offensive in Lebanon. Last week, Israels defense minister Israel Katz announced the expansion of the ground operation in southern Lebanon. And on Sunday Israel said it was using artillery batteries inside Lebanese territory for the first time. Previously, batteries had remained on Israeli soil firing into villages across the border. Artillery batteries are carrying out shelling from inside Lebanese territory attacking targets in support of ground forces during their operations, Avichay Adraee, the Israeli militarys Arabic spokesperson, said Sunday. The aim, Adraee said, is to expand the scope of the shelling and direct heavy fire towards combat areas in support of ground maneuvers. Israels war on many fronts In northern Gaza, at least 50 people were killed in Israeli strikes on Beit Lahiya on Sunday morning, according to the enclaves health ministry. Dozens of Palestinians displaced by the ongoing Israeli operation in the nearby Jabalya area were sheltering in two of the houses hit, a local journalist said. We were sitting at home and suddenly we heard intense strikes, because of this we were not able to leave the house, one eyewitness, who is also a resident of the area, told CNN without giving his name. The resident said the people in the area started removing the dead from the rubble in the absence of civil defense and ambulances. Gazas civil defense say they are unable to operate in the area due to the continuing Israeli strikes. People check the rubble of a building hit in an overnight Israeli strike in Beit Lahya in the northern Gaza Strip on November 17, 2024. - AFP/Getty Images These were people displaced from Jabalya to Beit Lahiya, the eyewitness said. A video of the aftermath seen by CNN shows children panicking, with some crying in the background, as a man tells them to calm down and get out. A toddler, covered in blood, is being held in someones arms. Another toddler is heard in the background crying, mama, mama. The IDF told CNN that several strikes were conducted on terrorist targets in the area of Beit Lahiya overnight. It said that there have been continuous efforts to evacuate the civilian population from the active war zone in the area and that IDF is precisely operating and is doing everything possible to avoid causing harm to civilians. Separately, Israeli strikes targeted al-Bureij in central Gaza killing 23 people, according to Al Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, where the bodies were taken. CNN has also reached out to the IDF for comment on those strikes. It was a very terrifying night, with the sounds of small children screaming every little one calling for their mother, one resident in the area, Mahmoud Azaiza, said. When asked about the Al-Bureij strike, the IDF told CNN it is operating to dismantle Hamas military capabilities. Israel launched a renewed military offensive on Jabalya last month after Israeli intelligence indicated that Hamas was trying to rebuild its capabilities in the area. The offensive displaced thousands of Palestinians and killed dozens. The operation has inflicted losses on the Israeli military, with 20 soldiers declared to have been killed in northern Gaza since the operation began, including four last week, according to statements published by the IDF since October 6. Palestinians mourn near their relatives' funerals after Israeli airstrike hit Bureij Camp in Deir al-Balah, Gaza on November 17, 2024. - Ali Jadallah/Anadolu/Getty Images This operation to systematically dismantle terrorist infrastructure in the area will continue as long as required in order to achieve its objectives, the IDF said last month. The continued offensive on Gaza coincides with Israels expanding operation in southern Lebanon. On Friday night, Israeli forces reached the village of Chama, some 61 miles from the capital of Beirut, in what is understood to be the deepest incursion into southern Lebanese territory. Israeli forces withdrew after clashing with Hezbollah, Lebanese state media said. Lebanons health ministry also reported that Israeli airstrikes on villages in the southern Tyre district on Sunday killed at least 11 people. CNN has reached out to the IDF for comment. Israeli airstrikes continued pounding the Lebanese capital on Sunday for the sixth consecutive day. The IDF renewed evacuation warnings Sunday morning for residents of Haret Hreik in the southern Beirut suburbs, where Hezbollah is known to have a strong presence. The Israeli military said its air force had conducted strikes on six Hezbollah military targets in Beiruts southern outskirts, known as Dahiyeh. This story has been updated with additional developments. CNNs Lauren Izso contributed to this reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com BEIRUT (Reuters) -Lebanese armed group Hezbollah confirmed its media relations chief Mohammad Afif was killed by an Israeli strike on a building in central Beirut on Sunday. Israel has rarely hit senior Hezbollah personnel who do not have clear military roles, and its air strikes have mostly targeted Beirut's southern suburbs where the group has its heaviest presence. Israel's military, which earlier declined to comment, issued a statement late on Sunday reporting it had "eliminated" Afif. The Lebanese health ministry said the strike had killed one and injured three. A second, separate strike later on Sunday hit Mar Elias street, another central area rarely targeted by Israeli bombs, Hezbollah's Al-Manar TV reported. The Lebanese health ministry said that strike killed at least two people and wounded 22. Hezbollah and Israel have been trading fire for more than a year, since the group began launching rockets at Israeli military targets on Oct. 8, 2023. That was a day after its Palestinian ally Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people, Israeli authorities say. In late September, Israel expanded its military campaign in Lebanon, heavily bombing the south and east and the southern suburbs of Beirut alongside ground incursions on the border. Israel's campaign in Lebanon has in the last year killed 3,841 people and wounded nearly 15,000 others, the Lebanese health ministry said on Sunday, a toll that did not distinguish between civilians and combatants. Hezbollah rockets fired across the border have killed dozens of Israelis, including soldiers and civilians, Israel says. A separate assault on the Gaza Strip in Israel's war against Hamas has killed more than 43,000 people, most of them civilians, according to Palestinian health officials. LEBANESE SOLDIERS KILLED In addition to targeting Hezbollah, the escalation has killed several soldiers of the Lebanese military, including two who died on Sunday when Israel attacked an army post in the southern town of Al-Mari, the Lebanese army said on X. Two other soldiers were wounded, it said. The strike in Beirut targeting the Hezbollah official hit the Ras al-Nabaa neighbourhood, where many people displaced from the southern suburbs by Israeli bombardment have sought refuge. The Lebanese security sources said a building housing offices of the Ba'ath Party had been hit, and the head of the party in Lebanon, Ali Hijazi, told the Lebanese broadcaster Al-Jadeed that Afif had been in the building. Ambulances could be heard rushing to the scene, and guns were fired to prevent crowds approaching. The Lebanese broadcaster showed video of a building whose upper floors had collapsed and civil defence workers at the scene. Afif was a long-time media adviser to Hezbollah secretary-general Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli air attack on the southern suburbs of Beirut on Sept. 27. He managed Hezbollah's Al-Manar television station for several years before taking over the group's media office. Afif hosted several press conferences for journalists among rubble in Beirut's southern suburbs. In his most recent comments to reporters on Nov. 11, he said Israeli troops had been unable to hold any territory in Lebanon, and that Hezbollah had enough weapons and supplies to fight a long war. (Reporting by Beirut bureau; additional reporting by Menna Alaa El Din and Emily Rose; Editing by John Davison, Kevin Liffey, Andrew Cawthorne and Cynthia Osterman) Ray Mickshaw - ABC Jennifer Love Hewitt is having a full-circle moment when it comes to a special milestone for one of her children. The actress has been a part of the Hollywood industry for over three decades, currently starring in the hit drama 9-1-1 and the upcoming Lifetime movie The Holiday Junkie (which also stars her husband Brian Hallisay). Both of the projects have featured her daughter Autumn (whom she shares with Brian), leading the mother-daughter duo to experience a moment Jennifer shared with her own mom back in the day. As Jennifer explained in an emotional video on Instagram, she had the opportunity to hand Autumn her SAG-AFTRA card. What's more, it was important to her because her late mother Patricia (who died in 2012 from cancer) did the same thing for her back in the day. "Okay, so this is maybe only an important moment over here, but for me it's a big one," Jennifer began the clip posted on November 11. "When I was 10 years old and I wanted to be an actor, my mom got to hand me my SAG card, thanks to a little show called Kids Incorporated. I thought it was just the coolest thing ever because it meant that I was acting and I was doing what I really wanted to do and I was part of a community of really creative amazing people." "Well, today, thanks to a little part on 9-1-1 and The Holiday Junkie movie coming up that Autumn is in, guess what? Right before she turns 11, I got to give her her SAG card," she added. "It's a big moment! It's really cool! I keep thinking about my mom and how, just, she would love this... Actors are cool and we have the best jobs." When folks saw how sentimental the Inheriting Magic author felt about being able to share this acting moment with her daughter, fans were overcome with emotion as well. "@jenniferlovehewitt What a full circle moment. Life can be funny that way sometimes ," one person wrote in the comments. " This is so memorable. A special bond between mom, daughter and grandmother," another penned. "How exciting for Autumn! Congratulations on this new memory for the books. ," a different follower added. Our hearts can't take how sweet this is for Jennifer and Autumn! And given how Autumn's siblings Atticus and Aidan (who Jennifer also shares with Brian) are also being featured in their mom and dad's upcoming project, we can only imagine she'll be able to have another moment like this in the future. You Might Also Like Rhyma Castillo is a trending reporter for the Express-News and a member of its Digital Go Team. She can be reached at rhyma.castillo@express-news.net. A native of San Antonio and a Texas A&M University graduate, she is a journalist with nearly a decade of experience. She has reported on politics, immigration, climate change, gun violence, and workers rights. Additionally, she excels in lifestyle and entertainment writing, covering music, television, video games, technology, and relationships. In her free time, she enjoys painting, drawing, cooking, hiking, climbing, gardening, playing video games, cuddling with her cats, and making music with her band. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., continued to insist Sunday that the House Ethics Committee should not release a report on its investigation into former Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., who is incoming President Donald Trumps pick to be attorney general. It should not come out, Johnson said Sunday on CNNs "State of the Union." Johnson noted that Gaetz resigned from Congress and said the committee shouldnt be investigating private citizens. CNN host Jake Tapper pointed out that the Ethics Committee has released reports in the past after members resigned. I wasnt the speaker at that time, Johnson said. However, some of Johnson's and Gaetz's fellow conservatives have said the report shouldn't be kept behind closed doors at least for members of the upper chamber. Sen Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., said on NBC's "Meet the Press" Sunday that the Ethics Committee should "absolutely" release its report on Gaetz. That should be definitely part of our decision-making," he said. The background of Matt Gaetz does matter. "Now, should it be released to the public or not? I guess that will be part of the negotiations," he also noted. Trumps selection of Gaetz as his attorney general nominee sent shockwaves through the political system. A Trump uber-loyalist, Gaetz has clashed with many in his own party and is known for political antics and incendiary rhetoric. Gaetzs selection has stoked fears that Trump could pursue a retribution agenda against his perceived enemies. The former congressman has often been an attack dog for Trump in going after critics. Johnson said he expects Trumps nominees to shake up the status quo. You cant have status quo appointments in a moment like this this, he said, adding, It is a new day in America, these individuals will help deliver that. Nov 12, 2024; Washington, DC, USA; Speaker of the House Mike Johnson leads a press conference at the United States Capitol. Mandatory Credit: Jack Gruber-USA TODAY Gaetz was investigated by federal law enforcement, and some Republicans in the Senate which must confirm his nomination have expressed interest in learning more about the ethics questions still swirling around him. The Justice Department investigated sex trafficking allegations against Gaetz. The investigation ended without charges, but the House Ethics Committee continued to look into the allegation he assaulted a 17 year old. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, last week said he and other lawmakers should get access to the Ethics Committee report, which additionally covers allegations of illicit drug use and other accusations. Johnson on Sunday also discussed trying to implement Trumps policy agenda in Congress, including tax cuts and immigration reform. Asked about eliminating taxes on tipped wages, as Trump promised, Johnson said he wants to deliver on that but noted you gotta do the math to make sure it can be paid for. Johnson was asked whether the American public is prepared for the massive disruptions that are possible if Trump deports everyone who is in the country illegally. Im not sure thats whats going to happen," he said, adding that he expects criminals to be deported. "Begin there and see how it transpires," he said. "This will take a lot of thoughtful work and deliberation. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mike Johnson opposes releasing Trump nominee Matt Gaetz ethics report The first case of mpox clade I was found in California, but the risk to the public remains low, public health officials said Saturday. There are two types of mpox, clade I and clade II, according to the Center for Disease Control. Each type has its own subclade that have "different characteristics, like who they affect, how they're spread, or even how many deaths they cause." However, the case that was announced on Saturday is the first of the clade I strain to be found in the country. The person with the virus had recently returned to California after traveling to eastern Africa, where the strain (clade I mpox) has affected several countries, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in a news release. State and federal health officials said the risk to the public from this first U.S. case is low. The person is in isolation, and people who were in contact with them are being contacted by health officials, USA TODAY previously reported. Here's what to know about mpox, formerly known as monkeypox. Mpox cases in the US, around the world While this the first case of clade I to be announced in the U.S., 3,004 cases of mpox clade II have been recorded since Jan. 1, 2024, according to CDC data. The U.S. case count of mpox comprises roughly 14% of the total cases of clade I and II reported globally this year (21,370), per the CDC, while 11,911 cases have been reported in countries with only clade I mpox. There is no evidence that the mpox clade I strain is spreading between people in California or elsewhere in the U.S., according to state health officials. Mpox symptoms Clade I has historically led to more severe illness compared to clade II, the strain associated with other U.S. cases of mpox. California health officials said recent infections indicate the clade I strain may not be as clinically severe compared to previous outbreaks, especially when people have access to quality medical care. The following are symptoms for mpox, according to the World Health Organization: Painful rash with sores Enlarged lymph nodes Fever Headache Muscle ache Back pain How does it spread? Mpox, which comes from the same virus family as smallpox, spreads from animals to people, and it received its former name, monkeypox, because that is the animal it was first discovered in. The virus spreads among humans through close contact and exposure that includes, but is not limited to, the following, according to the WHO: Sexual contact Bodily fluids Lesions on the skin or area like the mouth or throat Respiratory particles Contaminated objects How to prevent the spread People can take the following measure to prevent the spread, according to the CDC: Avoid close contacts with individuals infected with the virus, including people with skin or genital lesions Don't come in contact with things touched by people infected with the virus, like clothing, bedding, toothbrushes, sex toys, or objects and materials used in healthcare settings Receive both recommended doses of the mpox vaccine Julia is a trending reporter for USA TODAY. You can connect with her on LinkedIn, follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, Instagram and TikTok: @juliamariegz, or email her at jgomez@gannett.com This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mpox cases, symptoms, how it spreads: First US clade I case reported (This story was updated to accurately reflect the most current information.) Columbus community leaders are condemning armed neo-Nazis marching Saturday afternoon, using racial slurs toward people of color and shouting about Jewish people and white power. Several videos began popping up around 1:15 p.m. Saturday on social media of about a dozen people, one with a bullhorn, wearing all black with red facemasks and carrying black flags with red swastikas on them in the Short North. Police responded to a report from a caller who said that one of the people in the group sprayed pepper spray or mace at a passerby. Callers also reported the group was using racial slurs toward people of color on the street, shouting about Jewish people and white power and appeared to be armed, police dispatchers said. In a statement early Sunday, police said there were no arrests after officers were dispatched at 1:20 p.m. "on a group of individuals dressed in all black and armed with firearms holding Nazi Swastika signs," Sgt. Joe Albert wrote. Officers were advised the group may have been in a physical altercation with civilians in the area. "Shortly after officers arrived on scene, the group left the area without incident," Albert wrote. "Officers stopped a van the group left in a short distance away to investigate the potential assault that may have taken place. Many of the individuals inside the van were detained, however, it was later determined that an assault did not take place and all of the individuals were released." The group's actions were swiftly criticized by community leaders. "The vile display of hate by a small band of masked neo-Nazis in the Short North is another sad example of the bigotry that we have witnessed across the country," American Jewish Committee regional director Lee C. Shapiro said in a statement. "AJC is grateful to the Columbus police for acting to quell this unauthorized march and for city officials' forceful response to this act of cowardice. We cannot allow agitators to stoke fear in a city where diversity and tolerance is one of its hallmarks. Hate has no place in Columbus. Not now, not ever." Gov. Mike DeWine, in a statement, denounced the groups actions and said, There is no place in this State for hate, bigotry, antisemitism, or violence. "We will not tolerate hate in Ohio. Neo-Nazis their faces hidden behind red masks roamed streets in Columbus today, carrying Nazi flags and spewing vile and racist speech against people of color and Jews, DeWine said. To those involved in the neo-Nazi march in the Short North today, take your flags and the masks you hide behind and go home and never come back. Your hate isnt welcome in our city. pic.twitter.com/m9JpOrwxZQ Columbus City Attorney Zach Klein (@CityAttyKlein) November 16, 2024 In a statement posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, City Attorney Zach Klein said: "To those involved in the neo-Nazi march in the Short North today, take your flags and the masks you hide behind and go home and never come back. Your hate isnt welcome in our city." City Council President Shannon Hardin also said in a post on X that he had been in touch with police about the incident. "I'm sorry the President-elect has emboldened these creeps," Hardin wrote. "This community rejects their pathetic efforts to promote fear and hate. Columbus will always stand with those they seek to intimidate." Mayor Andrew Ginther also said in a statement posted on X that the community will continue to stand against hatred and bigotry and embrace tolerance and acceptance through diversity. "Together, we reject the cowardly display reported in the Short North earlier today, and we will continue to monitor the situation in partnership with the Columbus Division of Police to ensure the safety and security of our city." In a lengthy statement on his website, Columbus-based civil rights advocate and attorney Sean Walton Jr., who is running for NAACP Columbus president in the chapter's Wednesday election, called Saturday's events "both alarming and unacceptable" and "a direct assault on the values we hold dear as a community." "Let me be clear: hate has no home here. The actions of these protestors undermine the very fabric of what makes us strong our diversity, unity, and shared commitment to justice and happiness for all," Walton said. "While their goal may be to divide us, we must resist the temptation to respond with the same hate and aggression they spew. Instead, we must rise above and respond with the enduring power of love, resistance and collective commitment to community." Walton also called on elected officials and police to thoroughly investigate those involved and to "take swift, collaborative steps to ensure that such actions are prevented in the future." nshuda@dispatch.com CBehrens@dispatch.com This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Neo-Nazis carrying swastika flags, using racial slurs march in Ohio A senior minister has defended plans to strike deals with countries like Libya, Vietnam, and even the semi-autonomous region of Kurdistan to help tackle the illegal migrant crisis and stop the small boats crossing. Transport secretary Louise Haigh confirmed reports in The Sunday Times that home secretary Yvette Cooper and Sir Keir Starmer were in talks with a range of countries to end the migrant crisis. But speaking on Sky News Sunday morning show with Sir Trevor Phillips, she insisted that the deals were not the same as the Tories failed Rwanda scheme, which cost the taxpayer hundreds of millions and was cancelled as soon as Labour took power. Ms Haigh said: The prime minister and home secretary have made no secret that this is an international problem which needs international solutions. That is why both of them have been working with their counterparts across Europe and across the world to make sure we have deals in place to make sure we can tackle this problem. Louise Haigh said that third-country deals to stop illegal migration are not the same as the Tory Rwanda plan (PA Wire) We cant tackle it on our own at the border. That is why the prime minister was at Interpol recently. We need to tackle the problem upstream. Instead of being a deportation programme, as Rwanda was intended to be, the deals with countries like Vietnam will be similar to the ones which Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni has struck with countries such as Libya to prevent migrants from setting off on the perilous journey to Europe. The deals involve handing the countries millions of pounds to try to tackle the problem at source. Sir Keir recently met with Ms Meloni to discuss the migration crisis as it was being reported that her efforts had led to a 62 per cent reduction in illegal migrants coming across the Mediterranean. Pressed by Sir Trevor on why this was different from the Rwanda scheme, Ms Haigh said: Rwanda was a failed gimmick that failed to solve the problem. Rwanda wasnt working well, was costing the taxpayer a fortune and wasnt working as a deterrent. She refused to discuss how much the deals will cost when, as expected, they are agreed at the end of this year but admitted that it will be millions. But she pointed out: We are wasting hundreds of millions at the moment with hotel accommodation. The deals will go hand in hand with Sir Keirs revamped Border Command to help stop the small boats. However, as things stand, the number of migrants crossing the Channel is up this year. As of 11 November, 32,900 people had crossed in 2024. In the whole of 2023, 29,437 people came to the UK in small boats. Firefighters were operating under high risk that flames would spread Sunday as they took on a wildfire on the New York-New Jersey border that broke a containment line and prompted more than 160 homes to be evacuated the previous night. The voluntary evacuation allowed fire personnel to confront the Jennings Creek Wildfire uninterrupted overnight and will remain in place until Monday as those efforts continue, Jesse Dwyer, a supervisor in Warwick, New York, said in a Facebook post on Sunday. Efforts overnight by both local and regional firefighters to protect structures were successful and no structures are presently in danger, Dwyer said. Residents had been allowed to return home. In an early-evening announcement, Warwick officials said the Orange County state of emergency was extended. They also asked those in the evacuation area to shelter in place so firefighters could continue doing their jobs. Officials have said the blaze, which began Nov. 8 and has burned more than 5,000 acres across both states, is about 90% contained. But the jump over the containment line required an emergency response that involved asking hundreds of Warwick residents to voluntarily leave their homes and opening a shelter at a local middle school. We got home, packed up just like the essentials, everything that we had in the safe, like important papers, and then we came here, Viktoria Kall told CBS News, adding she arrived at the school around midnight. Crews have been dousing the flames with water dropped from New York Air National Guard helicopters and have the blaze "boxed in by fire lines," the New York State Park Police said on social media Sunday. It previously said the fire had expanded by just four or five acres. "The small section of fire that breached a containment line did not reach the contingency line," the posting said. A major brush fire in Greenwood Lake, N.Y., broke through a fire line on Nov. 16, 2024. Mandatory evacuations were ordered for homes in the neighborhood. Weather not cooperating Weather conditions have presented a challenge to suppressing the fire, and no rain that might help the cause is expected until possibly Thursday. The National Weather Service issued a statement Sunday warning about the elevated risk of wildfires spreading in the New Jersey counties of Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Passaic, and Union. All of New Jersey and southeast New York state have endured the worst parts of an ongoing drought that stretches from Virginia to Massachusetts, exacerbating fire danger. Last week, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul banned outdoor burning across the state through the rest of November because of the dry conditions. New York confronts brush fires Recent brush fires in Manhattans Inwood Hill Park and Brooklyns Prospect Park have drawn attention to the marked increase in those incidents this year in New York City, whose fire department said it had responded to an unprecedented 229 of them in two weeks from Oct. 29 to Nov. 11. Department Commissioner Robert Tucker is responding by forming a brush fire task force, which will be made up of fire marshals, fire inspectors, and tactical drone units in response to the historic increase in brush fires occurring throughout the five boroughs, the FDNY said on social media Sunday. The department said its also conducting safety outreach across the city to reduce brush fires. Two of them near Amtrak tracks in the Bronx last week forced the suspension of the popular train service linking Penn Station to Boston for more than 24 hours. (This story was updated to add new information.) Contributing: The Bergen Record This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Jennings Creek fire breaks containment on New York-New Jersey border In this photo taken from video released by AIASHARA Independent Agency, Protesters, two of them hold an Abkhazian and Russian flags, gather outside the parliament building of the Georgian separatist region of Abkhazia as tensions flared over a proposed pact that would allow Russians to buy apartments in the region, Georgia, on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, (AIASHARA Independent Agency via AP) TBILISI, Georgia (AP) Opposition protesters in Georgias breakaway province of Abkhazia on Sunday refused to cede control of key government buildings seized during rallies earlier in the week during which at least 14 people were injured in clashes with police. Demonstrators stormed the buildings Friday to protest new measures allowing Russians to buy property in the seaside region. Protesters on Sunday continued to demand the ouster of self-styled Abkhazian President Aslan Bzhania, and one prominent politician vowed that the opposition would form a rival government if he refuses to step down. If our demands for the presidents resignation are not met, we will have to form a temporary government to ensure the normal functioning of state bodies, Temur Gulia told his supporters, according to local agencies. Bzhania, who is backed by Russia, signaled Sunday that he was prepared to step aside temporarily and hold early elections, even as he continued to slam the demonstrations as an attempted coup detat. Opponents of the property agreement say it will drive up prices of apartments and boost Moscows dominance in the region. On Saturday, Bzhania announced that he would only agree to a snap election if demonstrators vacated the regions parliament building. But crowds that gathered in the Abkhazian capital, Sukhumi, rejected the deal and opposition leaders said they would only accept Bzhanias unconditional resignation. Meanwhile, protesters on Sunday began dismantling the security barriers around the government complex in Sukhumi. One prominent opposition figure called the metal barriers a symbol of the authorities being out of touch. This barrier shows that the government has decided to fence itself off from its people, Adgur Ardzinba said, according to local media. Most of Abkhazia broke away from Georgia in fighting that ended in 1993, and Georgia lost control of the rest of the territory in the short war with Russia in 2008. Russia recognizes Abkhazia as an independent country, but many Abkhazians are concerned that the region of about 245,000 people is a client state of Moscow. Abkhazias mountains and Black Sea beaches make it a popular destination for Russian tourists and the demand for holiday homes could be strong. At least 14 people were injured Friday when opposition protesters clashed with police, Russian state agencies reported. Lawmakers had gathered at the regions parliament building to discuss ratifying measures allowing Russian citizens to buy property in the breakaway state. However, the session was postponed as demonstrators broke down the gate to the buildings grounds with a truck and streamed inside. Some threw rocks at police, who responded with tear gas. The arrest of five opposition figures at a similar demonstration Monday set off widespread protests the next day in which bridges leading to Sukhumi were blocked. Four people were injured after a small plane crashed in front of horrified fans at a major NHRA drag racing event in Pomona, California on Sunday. The crash occurred when the plane attempted to land at an airfield near the In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip, authorities confirmed. The pilot and three passengers survived and were rushed to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, the Pomona Police Department said. The plane smashed multiple parked vehicles, including a camper, witnesses told journalist Jerry Jordan, and firefighters worked to contain fuel gushing from the downed plane. The plane hit the ground during the In-N-Out Burger National Hot Rod Association finals event. A small plane crashed at a drag racing event in Pomona, California. Survivors were reportedly rushed to the hospital. The plane hit the ground during the In-N-Out Burger National Hot Rod Association finals event. The event was halted after the crash, NHRA said on X. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the incident. This is a developing story. Check back for updates. President Joe Biden and his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, closed the book on their diplomatic relationship Saturday, meeting for a final time amid uncertainty over what the next Donald Trump presidency might portend for their two countries ties. As they opened the talks on the sidelines of the APEC summit of Pacific leaders in Lima, both men described the relationship between Washington and Beijing as the most important in the entire world, one that could quickly tilt into global conflict if not carefully managed. Behind closed doors, the leaders hashed out a range of contentious issues that will undoubtedly continue into the next administration. As the talks concluded, the men put down their notes for a moment of reflection on what has been a lengthy and layered relationship. For his part, Xi said he was prepared to maintain stable ties once Biden exits the world stage. Left largely unspoken were the deep questions about what Trump intends to do when he takes office in 65 days. The United States has recently concluded its elections, Xi told Biden through a translator. Chinas goal of a stable, healthy and sustainable China-US relationship remains unchanged. Make the wise choice, Xi said, somewhat ominously. Keep exploring the right way for two major countries to get along well with each other. The comments amounted to as clear a sign as any that China is now looking past Biden toward his successor. After more than a decade of encounters, the moment was likely the last time Biden and Xi will meet before Trump is inaugurated in January. Xi didnt mention Trump by name, but his opening comments suggested a degree of concern about what the incoming administration might have in store. China is ready to work with the new US administration to maintain communication, expand cooperation and manage differences, so as to strive for a steady transition of the China-US relationship for the benefit of the two peoples, Xi said. Biden used the meeting to raise a series of contentious issues with Xi one last time, including Taiwan, the economy, Ukraine and fentanyl production. The leaders also reached a new agreement that artificial intelligence never be allowed to replace human control of nuclear weapons. Biden acknowledged the relationship had seen its ups and downs since he took office. But it was also a moment for reflection on a relationship that began more than a decade ago, over a long meal in Chengdu. That was an episode that left deep impressions on the president, at least judging by how often he recounts it. A search of Bidens speeches over the past four years finds 61 instances of him describing a moment at the end of the evening when, asked by Xi to define America, he came up with a single word: possibilities. He brought up the dinner again as he prepared to say farewell to Xi for a final time. I remember being on the Tibetan plateau with you, and I remember being in Beijing and all over the world, first as vice president and then as president, Biden said. We havent always agreed, but our conversations have always been candid and always been frank. We have never kidded one another. Weve been level with one another. And I think thats vital. In the end, looking backward may be more productive for Biden and Xi than trying to predict whats next for their two nations. Trumps return to the White House has been the overwhelming backdrop to the summit of Pacific leaders in Lima this week, as delegates discuss and strategize for an uncertain future. Trumps embrace of tariffs, autocrats and isolationist viewpoints runs mostly counter to the foreign policy principles Biden spent the past four years espousing on the world stage. Yet Trumps unpredictability might be the most disconcerting for the leaders gathered in Lima. That includes Xi, who regularly encourages stability above all else in his public pronouncements. Still scarred from a chaotic first administration and looking for clues of whether Trump will adopt a more level approach during his second go-around, world leaders have not been encouraged by the Cabinet selections emerging from Mar-a-Lago. Talk of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Tulsi Gabbard, Pete Hegseth and former Rep. Matt Gaetz has permeated even the back hallways of the Lima Convention Center, where the APEC summit is convening. Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with President Joe Biden on November 16, 2024, in Lima, Peru. - Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP Preparing for Trump In some ways, Trump is hardly a mystery to Xi and his Chinese advisers, who spent four years dealing with him before Biden entered office. But like most of Trumps policy choices, how he chooses to approach the worlds most consequential bilateral relationship this time around is anyones guess. With just two months until Trump is inaugurated, top Chinese Communist Party officials have been trying to glean from foreign policy experts whether his campaign rhetoric will translate into his real agenda, according to people involved in the conversations. The questions Chinese officials are raising, these people say, include Trumps proposed hikes to his sweeping tariff programs; his posture toward Taiwan; his relationship with the leaders of Japan and South Korea; and the military footprint he plans to pursue in the Indo-Pacific. Beijing has also taken stock of the China hawks with whom Trump plans to staff his Cabinet including Sen. Marco Rubio at the State Department and Rep. Mike Waltz as his national security adviser. And Chinese officials are openly speculating on whether alternate channels of communication to Trump through Elon Musk, Blackstone CEO Stephen Schwarzman, or Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner might help them soften the hardline stance the personnel selections have promoted. There are signs pointing toward a more aggressive stance, including his hawkish choices for top national security roles. Hes promised vast 60% tariffs on Chinese imports, a move that would inject new volatility into an already contentious relationship. But theres also the memory of his attempts at cultivating a relationship with Xi during his first administration, hoping to secure trade agreements and improve other areas of cooperation. Ultimately, Trump and Xi inked a trade deal in which China agreed, among other things, to purchase hundreds of billions of dollars in American goods, which it never ended up buying. The trade disputes, along with Xis attempts at obscuring the origins of the coronavirus, eventually soured ties between the two men. How Trump proceeds could have wide implications for the region and world. Those stakes aside, there was little Biden could say to Xi that would likely reassure him of smooth Washington-Beijing ties in the years ahead. Biden administration officials acknowledge they have little insight into what a notoriously unpredictable leader might be planning. In the meeting Saturday, Biden didnt attempt to predict what might happen to the US-China relationship once he exits office in January, nor did he act as a conduit for messages between Xi and the incoming administration. His national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, acknowledged afterward that the Trump transition team is not in the business of providing us assurances about anything. Its our job to do all that we can to set the new administration up as effectively as possible, and then they will decide how theyll take things forward, Sullivan said. Instead, Biden in the meeting sought to underscore with Xi the importance of maintaining honest and straightforward lines of communication. What has made the relationship between the two of them function effectively is that theyre able to be very straight with one another, even disagree, and that level of candor, directness even bluntness, at times has been critical in helping see us through some choppy waters at times, Sullivan said. An opportunity to look back on a consequential relationship Unlike the leaders previous two meetings on the sidelines of a G20 summit in Bali and at an estate outside San Francisco the Lima talks werent expected to result in a major list of outcomes. The men were expected to talk about the usual topics including Taiwan, Ukraine, fentanyl production and human rights along with some new irritations, namely Chinas alleged efforts to hack Trumps cellphone along with other devices associated with his campaign. But it was mostly an opportunity to look back on what has been a lengthy and somewhat complicated relationship. For Xi, the meeting with Biden represented a delicate endeavor. Meeting with the outgoing US president is a way to show respect for the office and signal stability in the relationship, but major negotiations will loom with Trump once he takes over in January. The upside is tiny and the downside is enormous if Trump thinks theyre stealing his thunder or (the two leaders) are making deals that would tie Trumps hands, said one source familiar with the dynamic. The two men came to know each other when each was serving as vice president. When it became clear Xi then something of a mystery to American officials was poised to take over leadership in China, Biden was dispatched by the Obama administration to take his temperature. Biden likes to brag that hes traveled tens of thousands of miles with Xi, and that among his fellow world leaders hes spent the most time with him. And while that may have been true at one point, Xi has clearly turned his attention to deepening his relationship with another leader: Russias Vladimir Putin. The no limits partnership the two men declared earlier in Bidens term has concerned US, European and Asian officials alike, who see a growing anti-West partnership between China, Russia, Iran and North Korea as one of the biggest future security threats. Already, the US has assessed China is sending tools and technology to Russia to produce missiles, aircraft and tanks used in its war against Ukraine. And revelations that Pyongyang has sent troops to Russia for fighting in Ukraine have loomed over talks in Peru this week. A key counterweight could be Bidens legacy How Trump confronts those threats is not something hes discussed at great length, at least as a candidate. Speaking Friday, Biden acknowledged the world faces a moment of significant political change as he hailed a strengthened three-way partnership between the United States, Japan and South Korea. Bidens efforts to bring Tokyo and Seoul into closer partnership after years of historical acrimony amount to a major facet of his legacy in East Asia and his attempt to create counterweight to China. Its also an area his aides believe could and should be continued by the incoming Trump administration, though they acknowledge they have little to go on when it comes to the president-elects intentions. Biden conceded Friday the meeting between himself, South Koreas Yoon Suk Yeol and Japans new prime minister, Shigeru Ishiba, was likely to be his last such encounter before he steps aside in January. But he said his efforts to bring the three nations closer after years of historical acrimony and tensions would endure. I think its built to last, he said. Its my hope and expectation. This story has been updated with new reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com President-elect Donald Trump made raising tariffs on imported goods a tenet of his reelection campaign. And while that could raise prices on everything from jeans to childrens toys for everyday Americans, Trump has also floated the idea of another tariff that could impact Wall Streets current favorite trade: AI. During an appearance on Joe Rogans podcast ahead of the election, Trump lambasted the idea of the CHIPS Act, a bipartisan piece of legislation Biden signed in 2022 designed to bring semiconductor manufacturing back to the US. He called it so bad. Instead of using legislation and billions in subsidies to bring chip-building facilities to the US, Trump said tariffs would have the same effect. In Trumps estimation, putting tariffs on semiconductors from Taiwan would force chip builders, like TSMC, to construct chip manufacturing plants, or fabs, in the US to avoid having to pay the added tax. But theres no guarantee chip builders wouldnt simply move the added cost down the line to their customers and forego spending cash on expensive US facilities. Such a move could also end up cutting into profit margins for companies like Nvidia (NVDA) and AMD (AMD), which rely on chips built in Taiwan, unless they similarly pass those costs down to their own customers. And that could have ripple effects across the tech industry. If the argument is that this is the way to force it to move here, TSMC is already moving here, explained William Reinsch, a senior adviser with the Center for Strategic and International Studies. They're already building a fab plant in Arizona. That's all already underway and the tariffs aren't going to make that move any faster. If anything, they might complicate the effort. Chip tariffs are on the table, but not a certainty Trump has continuously pushed the idea of tariffs as a means of targeting the US trade deficit and bringing manufacturing jobs back to America. Hes already said he wants to see a 10% to 20% tax on all imported products and a 60% tax on Chinese goods. Tariff target? TSMC produces chips for some of the world's biggest AI companies. (AP Photo/Chiang Ying-ying, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) During his interview with Rogan, Trump said that instead of moving forward with the CHIPS Act, he would have put tariffs on chips coming out of Taiwan, though he didnt say how much. The US has made reshoring chip manufacturing a major national security objective after the pandemic exposed the fragility of the global chip supply chainand Americas reliance on other countries for advanced semiconductors. According to a 2023 US International Trade Commission working paper, 44% of US imports of logic chips central processing units (CPUs), graphics processing units (GPUs), etc. came from Taiwan as of 2021. In the event of a major manufacturing disruption, the working paper estimated that the price of logic chips would jump as much as 59%, and US capacity would only be able to fill a portion of the gap left by the lack of Taiwanese imports. The CHIPS Act is supposed to increase chip manufacturing in the US and some companies are already moving to construct new facilities in the country with the promise of funding coming down the pike. Experts, meanwhile, are torn on whether the president-elect will move forward on such an import tax. Futurum Group CEO Dan Newman said that Trumps threats were likely nothing more than political posturing for election season rather than a flat-out promise that he would definitely move ahead with tariffs. Trump is unlikely to move forward with anything that hurts the economy because thats what he wants to be known for, Newman told Yahoo Finance. But others, like Columbia Business School associate professor Lori Yue, say theres a high probability that Trump will move forward with chip tariffs. If Trump does hit Taiwan-built chips with tariffs, Yue said, it will mean higher prices for Nvidia and other chip companies that get their chips from the country. But, she added, the increase in chip sales that could come as a result of deregulation related to AI under a second Trump administration might help offset those price increases. Newman, for his part, said that tariffs on chips out of Taiwan could eventually force chip designers to lean on Intels (INTC) facilities in the US at a time when that company is seeking third-party chip customers. For now, the chip industry, and those companies that rely on it, will have to wait and see what Trump decides to do when he takes office in January. Until then, anything is on the table. Sign up for Yahoo Finance's Week in Tech newsletter. (yahoofinance) Email Daniel Howley at dhowley@yahoofinance.com. Follow him on Twitter at @DanielHowley. For the latest earnings reports and analysis, earnings whispers and expectations, and company earnings news, click here Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance. San Antonio police responded to a shooting Saturday night at the Regency Inn on Austin Highway. Officers were not able to locate the shooter, who fled the scene. Theo Esquivel A shooting at a Northeast Side hotel sent one man to the hospital Saturday night, San Antonio police said. Officers arrived at the Regency Inn in the 1100 block of Austin Highway around 10 p.m. in response to a call about a shooting. An injured man, 39, told police he had been shot at the hotel before he fled across the street to a gas station, according to a preliminary police report. Police searched the area but were unable to find the shooter. It is not known what motivated the shooting. Advertisement Article continues below this ad ALSO READ: Bexar County sheriff and San Antonio police chief at odds over sick and intoxicated arrestees The man was taken to a local hospital in an "unknown condition," police said. The Trump transition team is compiling a list of senior current and former U.S. military officers who were directly involved in the withdrawal from Afghanistan and exploring whether they could be court-martialed for their involvement, according to a U.S. official and a person familiar with the plan. Officials working on the transition are considering creating a commission to investigate the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan, including gathering information about who was directly involved in the decision-making for the military, how it was carried out and whether the military leaders could be eligible for charges as serious as treason, the two sources said. Theyre taking it very seriously, the person with knowledge of the plan said. The Trump transition team did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Matt Flynn, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for counternarcotics and global threats, is helping lead the effort, the sources said. It is being framed as a review of how the U.S. first got into the war in Afghanistan and how it ultimately withdrew. A military transport plane launches while Afghans who can't get into the airport to evacuate are stranded in Kabul, Afghanistan, in 2021. Matt Flynn has nothing to do with the Trump transition team, much less leading any review concerning military justice matters, said Mark S. Zaid, Flynns attorney. Zaid said in a statement that no one has sought out Mr. Flynns views on this hypothetical legal scenario. Multiple officials on the Trump transition team did not immediately respond to requests for comment about this article. The sources apparently pushing this story appear to be your typical selfish Washington, D.C., insiders seeking to gain better positioning for their own administration jobs, said a person with knowledge of the campaign. President-elect Donald Trump has condemned the withdrawal as a humiliation and the most embarrassing day in the history of our country. It is not clear, though, what would legally justify treason charges, since the military officers were following the orders of President Joe Biden to withdraw all U.S. forces from Afghanistan. A 2022 independent review by the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction blamed both the Trump and Biden administrations for the chaotic U.S. withdrawal in 2021. Trump first reached an agreement with the Taliban in 2020 to withdraw all U.S. forces from Afghanistan, roughly 13,000 troops, and release 5,000 Taliban fighters from prison. The Biden administration then completed the withdrawal and badly overestimated the ability of Afghan government forces to fight the Taliban on their own. Trumps choice for defense secretary, Fox News personality Pete Hegseth, has criticized the withdrawal, saying the U.S. lost the war and wasted billions of dollars. In his book The War on Warriors, Hegseth wrote: The next president of the United States needs to radically overhaul Pentagon senior leadership to make us ready to defend our nation and defeat our enemies. Lots of people need to be fired. The debacle in Afghanistan, of course, is the most glaring example. Afghan applicants crowd into a cafe in Kabul, Afghanistan, seeking help applying for the Special Immigrant Visas program in 2021. Hegseth calls the withdrawal a humiliating retreat and says leaders at the Defense Department were not held accountable for the deadly attack at Abbey Gate, which killed 13 U.S. service members and roughly 170 Afghan civilians. Nor were they held accountable for a subsequent U.S. airstrike in Kabul that officials thought would kill the Islamic State group leader behind the suicide attack but instead killed 10 innocent Afghans, including seven children, he wrote. These generals lied. They mismanaged. They violated their oath. They failed. They disgraced our troops, and our nation. They got people killed, unnecessarily, he wrote. And, to this moment, they keep their jobs. Worse, they continue to actively erode our military and its values by capitulating to civilians with radical agendas. They are an embarrassment, with stars still on their shoulders. The transition team is looking at the possibility of recalling several commanders to active duty for possible charges, the U.S. official said. It is not clear the Trump administration would pursue treason charges, and instead it could focus on lesser charges that highlight the officers involvement. They want to set an example, said the person with knowledge of the plan. Taliban fighters storm into the Kabul airport with American-supplied weapons, equipment and uniforms after the U.S. military completed its withdrawal on Aug. 31, 2021. Speaking to NBC News days before the election, Howard Lutnick, one of the two advisers leading the transition, said that Trump learned after his first administration that he had hired Democratic generals and that he would not make that mistake again. Former officials who worked in Trumps first administration have said they advised Trump against policies they thought would weaken U.S. national security, such as withdrawing U.S. troops from Syria. And they advised against actions that they thought might violate the Constitution or inflame tensions domestically, such as deploying active-duty U.S. troops to quell protests after the 2020 police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Andrii Yalanskyi / iStock In an open letter, seven United States senators are asking the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to do what dozens of countries have already done and ban the toxic weedkiller paraquat, which has been associated with Parkinsons disease and other serious health risks. The October 31 letter addressed to EPA Administrator Michael Regan followed similar correspondence sent to the EPA by 47 Members of Congress earlier in the month, also calling for a ban on the controversial herbicide. Paraquat is a highly toxic pesticide whose continued use cannot be justified given its harms to farmworkers and rural communities. We write to urge the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ban the use of paraquat in the United States, the senators wrote in the letter. In their letter, the lawmakers said some studies had found paraquat use to be associated with a 64 percent higher likelihood of developing Parkinsons, thyroid cancer, non-Hodgkins Lymphoma and other thyroid problems, reported The Guardian. I hope the EPA will follow the science and ban paraquat, said the letters organizer, New Jersey Senator Cory Booker, as The Guardian reported. According to the EPA, there is not a clear link between exposure to paraquat and Parkinsons. However, the EPA said it would review additional studies and issue a final report on the matter by mid-January of next year. For 60 years, paraquat has been helping fuel the rise of Parkinsons disease, said Ray Dorsey, a University of Rochester professor of neurology, as reported by The Guardian. The evidence from human, laboratory and apparently even the companys own research is overwhelming. When paraquat is banned, more lives will be spared the consequences of Parkinsons. Syngenta, the Chinese manufacturer of paraquat products, has said that a causal connection between paraquat and Parkinsons disease has not been established by a peer-reviewed scientific journal. However, internal documents by the company revealed by The Guardian demonstrate that Syngenta had been aware for many years of scientific evidence of paraquat affecting the brain in similar ways to those that cause Parkinsons, and had secretly tried to influence scientific research in order to counteract evidence of harm by the product. Thousands of paraquat users in the U.S. who also suffer from Parkinsons brought a lawsuit against Syngenta, alleging that the company had a responsibility to warn them of the potential of developing the disease, but that it instead attempted to conceal evidence of risk. Paraquat has been linked to Parkinsons disease, thyroid cancer, and other health harms such as kidney, liver, and respiratory damage, and reproductive harm, including neurodevelopmental impact on developing fetuses. In rural areas, exposure to paraquat and other pesticides during pregnancy can increase the risk of leukemia, the senators said in the letter. Citing these and other risks, more than 70 countries have banned the use of paraquat, including China, Brazil, the European Union, and Turkey We urge you to protect the health of farmworkers and rural residents by banning paraquat. This article originally appeared on EcoWatch.com and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org. More from MediaFeed: Climate Crisis 101: Everything You Need to Know Crime scene police tape. A New York model who has appeared on red carpets and ads for Calvin Klein and Levis was being held in a Bronx cell Sunday, charged with fatally stabbing a 35-year-old father in a Bronx apartment last week. Dynus Saxon, 20, appeared Friday before a Bronx Criminal Court judge to face charges of second degree murder, first degree manslaughter and criminal possession of a weapon in the Nov. 10 killing of Kadeem Grant. A hearing is set for Dec. 3. Police and prosecutors did not immediately respond to a USA TODAY request for details and comment on the case. Photos from his court appearance show Saxon wearing a heavy bandage on his right hand, and prosecutors have said Saxon was bleeding from a gash when officers responding to a 911 call arrived at the scene. The New York Daily News reports that Grant was stabbed in the neck and chest as he dozed on a couch in the apartment of a third man. Police did not release a motive for the alleged attack, but the Daily News said detectives believe at least two of the men were involved in a sexual relationship and that a possible love triangle may have prompted the crime. Police also believe Saxon may have "just snapped" with no motive, the Daily News reported. The charges, if true, represent a long fall for Saxon, whose modeling career credits included red carpet walks at premieres of Deadpool & Wolverine and The Batman, the New York Post reported. 4-year-old starved to death: Parents charged with murder Grants father, Christopher, traveled to New York from his home in Florida to deal with the tragedy. He told the Daily News his son had a 3-year-old daughter. He was just a loving kid who was there for his family and his daughter, Grant said. Its just sad that she has to grow up without a father. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: New York model accused of fatal stabbing in Bronx apartment 17 November 2024 09:00 (UTC+04:00) Frank Schwabe, the German politician of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) who has been serving as a member of the Bundestag, and the head of the German delegation to PACE, exploited his untapped energy and emotions at the Bundestag, sharing again his anti-Azerbaijan rhetoric. As is known, Baku is hosting COP29 which provides a larger platform, where over 70 thousand participants run dialogue around common problems of our planet. Last night, the Bundestag member babbled on about human rights, freedom of speech, and protecting freedom worldwide. However, he did not mention the fate of the people of the small island states participating in COP29, who are suffering under the oppression of French and Dutch neo-colonialism. According to Schwabe, they cannot bear the symbol of free people, because his search for freedom can only be attributed to the countries where he and politicians like him are biased. Schwabe says that there is an unhealthy environment in Azerbaijan where he claims freedom is suppressed, but he is unaware that hundreds of German citizens who attend the COP29 event in Baku are so satisfied that are even surprised by what they have heard back in their country. It is not uncommon for visitors from Europe to be surprised by the situation in Baku at first glance. This, of course, is due to the critical situation artificially created by biased politicians like Frank Schwabe. It is no coincidence that Frank Schwabe is on the list of those banned from entering Azerbaijan. His inclusion in this list is not an unusual situation. A German politician who is alien to the realities of Azerbaijan and has an impartial approach is trying to choose Azerbaijan as a target instead of being interested in the situation in his country. The chaotic political situation in Germany and the internal conflict of coalitions have brought the country to the highest level of tension. However, for Frank Schwabe, the topic is still Azerbaijan. He and several politicians like him are only thinking about causing damage since they cannot contribute to important events like COP29. Given all this, Azerbaijan no longer needs to worry about any malignant campaigns by ill-intentioned individuals like him. Evil is Evil. Lesser, greater, middling...Makes no difference. 17 November 2024 10:00 (UTC+04:00) Within the framework of the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, to be held in Baku, ways of cooperation in the field of meteorology will be discussed among the countries of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), Azernews reports. The General Meteorological Department of Turkey will organize a panel discussion on "Integrated Early Weather Warning Systems in the Countries of the Organization of Turkic States." The event will take place on November 19 at the Turkey Pavilion, as part of the thematic day on "Food, Agriculture, and Water." During the discussions, opportunities for cooperation between the Turkish states in meteorology and joint initiatives for climate change adaptation will be explored. The event will be moderated by Hamza Tasdelen, Deputy Chairman of the Turkish Emergency Management Agency (AFAD). The panel discussions aim to address important issues related to the integration of early warning systems and the strengthening of regional cooperation Ronald Davis II, the Witte's curator of American history, center, leads a tour of the Black Cowboy exhibit at the Witte Museum on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Leslie Ochoa, vice president of collections for the Witte Museum, holds open the cover of a Bible owned by Sarah Tate, a woman who lived in Texas and was emancipated in 1865, at the Witte Museum on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Attendees listen to Ronald Davis II, the Witte's curator of American history, talk about artifacts on display during a preview event for the 8th annual Conference on Texas at the museum on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Ronald Davis II, the Witte's curator of American history, leads a tour of the Black Cowboy exhibit at the Witte Museum on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Vincent Hardy, actor and St. Philip's College professor, recites a speech by American abolitionist Frederick Douglass during a preview event at the Witte Museum on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. The museum hosted a preview of the 8th annual Conference on Texas next month, with the theme, Ode to Juneteenth: Slavery in Texas. The conference will explore the role of slavery in the growth and formation of Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News A bill of sale for an enslaved individual named Forchune in 1850, is seen on display at the Witte Museum on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Inside the Black Cowboys exhibit at the Witte Museum as seen on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Ronald Davis II, the Witte's curator of American history, leads a tour of the Black Cowboy exhibit at the Witte Museum on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Bills of sales for enslaved individuals named Forchune in 1850, on the left, and Mary Catherine in 1859, on the right, are seen in protective sleeves at the Witte Museum on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News Leslie Ochoa, vice president of collections for the Witte Museum, talks about the artifacts on display during a preview event for the 8th annual Conference on Texas at the museum on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. The conference next month will explore the role of slavery in the growth and formation of Texas. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News An 1867 Bible, three dresses and other artifacts at the Witte Museum once belonged to Sarah Tate, who was enslaved at age 41 and living east of San Antonio when news of emancipation reached Texas. In her Bible, faint, hand-written names reveal a visceral connection she always felt to her three older brothers, even after being sold and separated from them as a young girl. In the back of it, she writes down the birthdays of each and every one of her siblings, said Ronald Davis II, curator of American history at the museum. Family was important. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Personal relationships and the everyday life of enslaved people will be an area of focus at the Wittes 8th annual Conference on Texas, Ode to Juneteenth: Slavery in Texas, Dec. 5-6. It will feature historians and subject matter experts from across the country. More than 500 people are expected to gather to explore the role of slavery in the formation and growth of Texas and its lasting cultural and societal impacts. Texas native and historian-author Annette Gordon-Reed, awarded the Pulitzer Prize in History in 2009 for her book, The Hemingses of Monticello: An American Family, will deliver the keynote address Dec. 5. This conference promises an essential and innovative contribution to this discussion about America and Texas past and its future, Dirk Elmendorf, Witte president and CEO, said at a recent preview event. Through corporate sponsorships and partnerships with the Smithsonian Institute and San Antonio African American Community Archive and Museum, the conference will examine origins of American slavery dating to the 1500s, its broad economic impact in Texas and lingering effects on social norms, health care and other issues after emancipation. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The conference will also dive into the legal systems and structures that still remain to disregard the humanity of a people, said Deborah Omowale Jarmon, SAAACAM CEO and director. Online registration remains open, and there are at least 100 scholarships available for educators and students. Regular adult admission is $60 for both days or $35 for one day. Its a conference for everyone to really learn something, said Michelle Everidge, the Wittes deputy director and COO. Studying slavery in Texas is not something that just reveals a past but really helps us understand what we can do in the future. The conference will begin with lectures and panel discussions providing historical grounding on slavery and will include a presentation by Vincent Hardy, Chair of Fine Arts and Kinesiology at St. Philips College, of a speech delivered by abolitionist Frederick Douglass that focused on Texas as it became a newly annexed U.S. state in 1846. The event will wind down with a celebration of dance and movement and community conversations allowing people to really think what theyve learned, Everidge said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Aaronetta Pierce, a Witte trustee and African American arts and history scholar, said shes hopeful the event will spark conversations that reconcile the past, so that we can understand where we are now. Part of that requires knowing what enslaved people endured while treated as property, separated from their families, she said. When born a slave, you know from the very beginning that resistance is part of your humanity and nature, and that this is not a life that is normal, Pierce said. 17 November 2024 13:05 (UTC+04:00) On November 17, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with Salim bin Mohammed AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, Azernews reports. The President thanked AlMalik for his participation in COP29. In response, Salim bin Mohammed AlMalik expressed his gratitude for the high-level organization of COP29. During the meeting, the successful cooperation between Azerbaijan and ICESCO was emphasized. President Ilham Aliyev highlighted the positive impressions from the visit of Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Leyla Aliyeva to ICESCO's headquarters in Morocco and her meeting with Salim bin Mohammed AlMalik, also thanking the Director-General for the warm hospitality. The discussion concluded with mutual confidence in further strengthening bilateral relations and an exchange of views on future cooperation opportunities. 17 November 2024 12:11 (UTC+04:00) On November 17, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with the U.S. delegation led by August Pfluger, a member of the House of Representatives, Azernews reports. The head of state said that COP29 was a success, noting that although the negotiations on Article 6 of the Paris Agreement have been held for more than 10 years, significant progress in this regard was made on the first day of COP29. President Ilham Aliyev noted that COP29 was dedicated to finance, and a new climate finance target was expected to be defined. The Azerbaijani leader pointed out that the international community is also waiting for that. The President of Azerbaijan described the climate finance statements by international financial and banking institutions as a reassuring step in this direction. The US delegation praised Azerbaijan for the successful hosting of COP29. During the meeting, they exchanged views on the US-Azerbaijan cooperation, as well as Azerbaijans green transition strategy. They also touched upon the US support for Azerbaijan in the development of the countrys energy strategy after the restoration of Azerbaijan's independence. August Pfluger thanked the head of state for receiving the delegation on behalf of Mike Johnson, the Speaker of the House of Representatives. Noting that he was pleased with the visit to Azerbaijan, August Pfluger said he is ready to contribute to the development of US-Azerbaijan cooperation. The head of state noted the successful and mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries in various fields in the past 30 years. President Ilham Aliyev touched upon the Contract of the Century signed in 1994, reflected on the US government's support for this project and said that this contract had contributed to the energy security of the United States and its allies. The President added that energy cooperation had been strengthened over this period. On the Azerbaijan's green energy strategy, the head of state said that Azerbaijan had increased its renewable energy generation capacity together with international partners, noting that green energy would account for 30 percent of Azerbaijan's energy mix by 2027. Touching upon Azerbaijans renewable energy potential and the scheduled Black Sea submarine electricity cable project, President Ilham Aliyev noted that Azerbaijan was cooperating with countries of the region such as Georgia, Romania and Hungary on this project. The head of state also spoke about cooperation in the field of green energy with Central Asia nations through the Caspian Sea, the document on the development and transmission of green energy between Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan signed on the sidelines of COP29. The President noted that Azerbaijan, together with countries of the region, is working on the creation of a green energy corridor linking the Caspian and Black Sea basins. President Ilham Aliyev said that Azerbaijan has tremendous wind energy potential in the Caspian Sea, adding that the country was also developing its hydropower resources. He said that large volumes of energy were to be generated in this segment as well. The head of state said that Azerbaijan would be able to export 4 gigawatts of renewable energy to the European Union market in the near future, noting that the European Unions energy demand is increasing. During the conversation, they mentioned great prospects for cooperation in the field of renewable energy between Azerbaijan and the United States. President Ilham Aliyev said that Azerbaijan was committed to the regional peace agenda, noting that it was Azerbaijan that initiated the signing of the peace agreement. Stating that Azerbaijan was subjected to occupation and military aggression from Armenia for thirty years, the President said that Azerbaijan had now restored its territorial integrity and sovereignty. He said the conflict was already consigned to history for Azerbaijan. The President of Azerbaijan stressed that Armenia's policy of militarization and arms race were a threat to regional peace and security. He said it was important that the territorial claims against Azerbaijan in the Armenian Constitution should be abandoned for the peace treaty to be signed. He said Armenia must not have territorial claims against Azerbaijan on a constitutional basis. During the conversation, they exchanged views on regional and international issues. Discussions at the meeting also revolved around stepping up the dialogue between the U.S. Congress and Azerbaijan, increasing reciprocal visits, prospects for the development of cooperation and partnership between Azerbaijan and the U.S. in various fields. 17 November 2024 12:24 (UTC+04:00) On November 17, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, met with Thomas Konietzko, President of the International Canoe Federation, Jean-Christophe Rolland, President of the International Rowing Federation and Claudio Schermi, President of the International Dragon Boat Federation, Azernews reports. The President of the International Canoe Federation noted that Baku is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and praised the high-level organization of the rowing event taking place today in the city as part of COP29, highlighting the excellent conditions created for it. Touching upon the importance of COP29, President Ilham Aliyev expressed gratitude for their participation in the event. Thomas Konietzko also highlighted the well-organized event, stressing the convenience and comfort offered to the participants.. Despite the short preparation time for COP29, President Ilham Aliyev noted that the organizational works were swiftly carried out. Thomas Konietzko shared pleasure from visiting Karabakh and Sugovushan, expressing admiration for the ongoing restoration and reconstruction projects, the development of sports, and the newly created facilities for rowing. He commended the conditions created for canoeing in the country and thanked the head of state for this. He also recognized Azerbaijans significant role in advancing sports, particularly rowing, which contributes to environmental protection. The heads of federations presented the President with keepsakes. 17 November 2024 12:35 (UTC+04:00) On November 17, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with Maimunah Mohd Sharif, Mayor of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and former Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-HABITAT), Azernews reports. Maimunah Mohd Sharif expressed her gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev for the opportunity to act as the mayor of Kuala Lumpur in the status of local communities at COP29 and for her inclusion in the Advisory Committee established under the auspices of Azerbaijans COP29 Presidency. She congratulated President Ilham Aliyev on the high-level organization of COP29. Maimunah Mohd Sharif's contribution to the development of cooperation between Azerbaijan and UN-HABITAT during her tenure as the head of the organization was acknowledged during the conversation. They noted Azerbaijans hosting the World Urban Forum in 2026, one of the most important UN events, with the preparations for the forum already commenced. They touched upon Azerbaijans achievements in the field of urban planning in the light of development of Baku and other cities of the country, its experience in building cities and villages in the territories liberated from occupation. During the conversation, the discussion touched on the exchange of experiences to foster cooperation between Baku and Kuala Lumpur, and establishing relations between both capitals as twin cities. They highlighted friendly relations between Azerbaijan and Malaysia and the fact that the two countries always support each other within international organizations. In line with the spirit of political relations, the sides exchanged views on further expansion of cooperation in economy, trade, culture, tourism and other sectors. 17 November 2024 20:00 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more On the 6th day of COP29, Mikhail Gusman, the First Deputy Director General of TASS, shared his insights in an exclusive interview with Azernews, commending Azerbaijans impressive organization of the landmark climate conference. When asked about his general impressions of COP29, M. Gusman expressed admiration for the seamless execution of the event. First of all, I have to start with my congratulations to your organizers for this great event. I watched the preparation from the very beginning. I was at COP28 in Dubai and was very happy when all 200 countries chose Azerbaijan to host COP29. From that moment, I wondered how it would be possible, in just 11 months, to prepare Baku for such a huge event, he said. First Deputy Director General Gusman highlighted the scale of the conference, with 70,000 participants, numerous state leaders, and 4,000 media representatives, praising the infrastructure and planning. The Baku Olympic Stadium is the perfect venue for such an event. Participants, from heads of state to journalists, have the best conditions to do their work. This ensures the success of this conference, he noted. Turning to the broader impact of COP29, Mikhail Gusman emphasized the significance of its discussions and sessions. He stated confidently, I am sure that COP29 will be remembered as one of the best COPs in history. Addressing the challenges and criticisms Azerbaijan faced ahead of the conference, including campaigns by some European countries, Gusman echoed sentiments expressed by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. The campaign against COP29, against Azerbaijan, crashed. President Aliyev rightly pointed out that there was an organized effort against Azerbaijan, but what we see here is the great success of this conference. It is the best example of how such campaigns fail in the face of true achievements, he remarked. The First Deputy Director General of the TASS agency concluded by reiterating his admiration for Azerbaijans ability to overcome challenges and host a historic climate event. 17 November 2024 19:20 (UTC+04:00) Voting has officially begun in Senegals early parliamentary elections, where citizens will vote to form a new composition of the National Assembly, the countrys unicameral parliament, Azernews reports. The elections will determine the 165 members of parliament (MPs), with results shaping the future political landscape of the country. According to reports from South Africa's SABC radio station, 41 parties and coalitions are competing for parliamentary seats. The ruling government is represented by the center-left party Senegalese Patriots for Labour, Ethics, and Fraternity (PASTEF), led by Prime Minister Usman Sonko. PASTEFs main rival is the centrist opposition coalition Takku Wallu Senegal, which translates to "United to Save Senegal" in Wolof. The coalition is led by Macky Sall, the former president who served from 2012 to 2024. The elections, which are conducted in one round but under two separate voting systems, will see 112 MPs elected from regional constituencies, while the remaining 53 will be elected through national constituencies. To secure a parliamentary majority, a party or coalition must win at least 83 seats. With 7.3 million registered voters casting their ballots, the election is expected to be a crucial moment in Senegals political history, potentially reshaping the balance of power in the National Assembly. 17 November 2024 20:34 (UTC+04:00) US President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Chris Wright, a prominent fossil fuel executive and campaign donor, as the Energy Secretary for his upcoming second term, Azernews reports citing the Associated Press. Wright, who serves as the CEO of Liberty Energy, a Denver-based oil and gas company, is a staunch advocate for fossil fuel development, including frackinga central element of Trumps energy dominance agenda. Known for his outspoken opposition to climate change policies, Wright has been a vocal critic of efforts to limit fossil fuel consumption and has argued that increasing oil and gas production is essential to reducing global poverty. He has consistently criticized what he calls the top-down approach to climate activism, which he believes is failing worldwide. While he has no prior government experience, Wrights pro-fossil fuel stance aligns with Trumps push for energy independence and less stringent environmental regulations. Wrights selection has been welcomed by influential conservative figures, including Harold Hamm, the executive chairman of Continental Resources, a major shale oil company. Hamm, a key Trump adviser on energy issues, was instrumental in organizing efforts to raise funds for Trumps reelection campaign with the promise of rolling back environmental regulations. A Colorado native with degrees from MIT and the University of California-Berkeley, Wright has been at the forefront of commercial shale gas production since founding Pinnacle Technologies in 1992, which helped pioneer hydraulic fracturing (fracking). He later served as chairman of Stroud Energy and founded Liberty Resources in 2010, a leading energy service provider. Wrights nomination follows a call by Trump ally Elon Musk for greater public involvement in the administrations decision-making process, particularly regarding the selection of key posts such as the Treasury Secretary. 17 November 2024 21:30 (UTC+04:00) On Sunday, Australia, Japan, and the United States agreed to deepen their military cooperation in response to China's growing military influence, Azernews reports citing the VoA. Australias Defense Minister Richard Marles hosted U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Japans Defense Minister Gen Nakatani for a trilateral meetingthe first of its kind to be held in Australia. Under the new agreement, Japan's Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade, a specialized marine unit, will be stationed in Darwin, Australia, to train alongside U.S. and Australian forces on a regular basis. "This is a significant commitment to the region and the world, showing the dedication of our three countries to work together," said Marles, emphasizing the importance of building interoperability between the nations' military forces. Lloyd Austin highlighted that the partnership would enhance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance activities, strengthening security efforts across the Indo-Pacific region. He praised the trilateral alliance for advancing a vision of a "free and open Indo-Pacific" and reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to bolstering regional alliances. Australia, in particular, has been increasingly aligned with the U.S. in its efforts to bolster military capabilities in the face of a rising China. Along with the strengthening of its surface fleet, Australia is planning to acquire nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS agreement with the U.S. and UK, further solidifying its military ties with the West. While there has been concern that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump may alter or abandon the AUKUS pact in favor of his "America First" foreign policy approach, Australian officials expressed strong confidence that the agreement will remain intact. 17 November 2024 23:21 (UTC+04:00) Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung is leading a high-profile delegation to Lithuania, which includes executives from over 10 drone companies, Azernews reports. The visit, set to take place early this week, is expected to provoke a strong response from China, which opposes official contacts between Taiwan and other countries. Lin, accompanied by officials from Taiwans Economic Ministry, departed for Lithuania on Sunday. The delegation will attend a forum in Vilnius, focusing on drone technologies, and is scheduled to meet with Lithuanian government officials. The visit is part of Taiwan President Lai Ching-tes push to enhance Taiwans drone manufacturing capabilities, aimed at strengthening the countrys defense and offsetting China's growing military advantage in the tech. Since taking office six months ago, Lai has made drone productionna priority, which includes agreements signed last month with the U.S. Defense Ministry to acquire up to 1,000 attack drones. The goal is to bolster Taiwans defenses amid increasing Chinese military threats, including regular drills simulating an invasion of the island. This visit to Lithuania follows similar diplomatic efforts, such as Joseph Wus trips to Europe in 2023 and previous engagements with U.S. industry executives. It highlights Taiwans strategy to build stronger international ties, particularly in the aerospace and defense sectors. The delegation includes representatives from major Taiwanese drone companies such as Thunder Tiger Corp., Aerospace Industrial Development Corp., and GEOSAT Aerospace & Technology Inc. One of the main objectives is to foster collaboration on drone technologies and to explore joint development with Lithuania, which has expertise in laser technology for anti-drone systems. However, the visit is expected to anger Beijing, which views Taiwan as part of its territory and vehemently opposes any official interaction with Taiwanese representatives. China has previously warned that it will retaliate against countries that engage with Taiwan diplomatically. Lithuania is likely to face diplomatic protests from Beijing, especially since its decision to allow a Taiwanese representative office in Vilnius in 2021 led to a diplomatic rift with China. Despite this, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda has expressed interest in improving relations with China in 2024, making the trip a sensitive issue for both sides. The visit underscores Taiwan's increasing push to secure international partnerships amid mounting pressure from Beijing. Tesla CEO Elon Musk, right, jumps on stage as he joins former President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump during a campaign rally at the site of his first assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024. (Jim Watson/AFP/Getty Images/TNS) Jim Watson/AFP/TNS Elon Musk arrives before President-elect Donald Trump during an America First Policy Institute gala at his Mar-a-Lago estate, Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024, in Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) Alex Brandon/Associated Press AUSTIN, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 14: A Tesla Cybertruck is parked outside of a dealership on November 14, 2024 in Austin, Texas. Tesla has issued its 6th recall for its Cybertruck line this year. A faulty part having potential to lead to a loss of power is the stated issue for the current recall. Brandon Bell/Getty Images SpaceX's mega rocket Starship lifts off from Starbase for a test flight Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024, in Boca Chica,, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay) Eric Gay/Associated Press Two months ago, SpaceX founder Elon Musk was online wailing about the Federal Aviation Administrations decision to fine the company for violating safety and licensing regulations and calling for the resignation of the agencys leader, a former airline executive whose appointment both parties had unanimously supported. Now, with President-elect Donald Trump set to return to the White House in January, Musk stands to have a lot more sway than just airing his frustrations on social media. The billionaires fervent support for the New York real estate magnate has translated into a role in Trumps administration at a time when regulators like the FAA are grappling with the myriad of cutting-edge technologies that Musks companies are developing. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Musk is at the zenith of his business career and would have very clear financial interest in the work he will be doing for the government, said Danielle Brian, executive director of the non-profit Project On Government Oversight. If theres a regulation he doesnt like, he can tell Trump and they can put an order down saying put this on the back burner. Musk has been tapped to co-lead a new committee called the Department of Government Efficiency or DOGE, a nod to cryptocurrency of which Musk is a booster and there is a sense among political observers and Musks own investors that he is likely to recommend slashing regulations that slow his companies work. His financial largesse ahead of last weeks election is also expected to get him a favorable ear as the GOP-controlled Congress shapes policies around these new technologies. Musk contributed more than $130 million to Trump and other Republicans, according to CFRA Research. A spokesman for Trumps transition team said they would ensure Musk and others involved with DOGE are compliant with all legal guidelines related to conflicts of interest. Advertisement Article continues below this ad While its not unusual for a president to bring on business executives to aid in government reforms former President Ronald Reagan chose the computing pioneer David Packard to fix the Defense Departments procurement system Musks appointment potentially creates an unprecedented level of conflicts of interest. Musks businesses are at the forefront of self-driving cars, reusable rockets and artificial intelligence. His Starlink satellites beam internet around the globe, social media giant X has influenced political messaging and startup Neuralink is working to implant brain-computer interfaces into people with quadriplegia. Many of these endeavors are under an intense level of government scrutiny that stands to determine not only their future success but that of Musks personal fortune, currently valued at around $300 billion. SpaceX has received billions of dollars in government contracts largely from NASA and the Department of Defense. Musks various companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, tunneling startup the Boring Co. and Neuralink, did not respond to requests for comment. X officials could not be reached for comment. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Trump has described DOGE as providing guidance from outside of government. It will be co-led by Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy. Following his appointment, Musk promised to post all of the departments actions online for maximum transparency a pledge that has now been reposted on X more than 95,000 times. The question hanging over Musk now is whether he can separate his own interests from those of the American people. Betting on politics has offered Musk an avenue to bolster his companies legacies, said Goran Calic, a visiting scholar at Harvard Business School who has studied Musks management strategy, (Musks) life might have been very difficult if this election went the other way, and it might still be difficult in like five more years, Calic said. Tesla and the future of EVs Musks ascendency comes as Tesla, the EV manufacturer he co-founded in 2003, is facing a myriad of questions about the safety of its vehicles. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is currently investigating a series of Tesla crashes, one of which resulted in the death of a pedestrian, to determine if the vehicles self-driving feature is safe. In the bigger picture, Tesla is seeking approval for its autonomous driving technology. And Trumps election presents the opportunity for Tesla to get federal approval, potentially overriding a state-by-state process that could take years, said Garrett Nelson, an analyst with CFRA Research. Trumps win could make it a more streamlined process at the federal level, which could shave years off, Nelson said, adding that Tesla was one of the biggest winners from the election. Teslas stock rose more than 30% last week, hitting its highest level in two years. And with Trump poised to cancel an EV tax credit that benefits Teslas competitors, Musks EV company is poised to gain even greater market share. Faster approvals for liftoff For his rocket company, Musk will likely target the regulations and agencies that he blames for slowing his journey to Mars. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Aviation Administration, which issues commercial launch licenses, will be high on that list. Musk and the FAA have regularly butted heads over the time it takes the agency to sign off on flight tests of the companys fledgling Starship rocket thats being developed in South Texas. In 2021, for instance, the FAA briefly blocked a Starship prototypes launch because SpaceX had violated a safety component of its prior launch license. The FAA has also taken aim at SpaceX operations in Florida. The $633,009 in fines Musk threatened to sue over in September came after SpaceX used an unapproved launch control room and rocket propellant farm. With his new political ties, Musk will likely want to streamline launch rules. But George Nield, who was the FAAs associate administrator for Commercial Space Transportation from 2008 to 2018, cautioned that rulemaking shouldnt be rushed. The first Trump Administration tried to quickly streamline these regulations, and companies were not happy with the result. The FAA is now trying to update that effort. When it comes to the actual regulations that people have to deal with, the United States government has put in place a very complex process on purpose, Nield said, because they don't want governments making arbitrary decisions really quickly that can have negative impacts. Musk could also try to accelerate the speed that launch licenses are issued. His company is launching more rockets every year, but the FAAs Office of Commercial Space Transportation is struggling to keep pace as its budget and personnel remain flat, said Nield, who also serves as an independent consultant with his company Commercial Space Technologies LLC. Musk could advocate for moving Commercial Space Transportation out of the FAA, which is preoccupied with commercial aviation, and have it report directly to the transportation secretary. That might get it more funding and employees, Nield said. Getting Starlink to more people Musks Starlink satellites, which are operated by SpaceX and provide communication lines around the world, are embroiled in a battle with a different federal agency. In 2020, the Federal Communications Commission announced that Starlink would receive nearly $900 million to provide broadband internet to rural communities. But it revoked that funding in 2022, citing slower-than-desired speeds. On X, Musk said Starlink significantly exceeds the FCC requirements. He called the decision unethical and politically partisan. The FCC chair, currently a Democrat, is expected to resign when Trump takes office. Trump will then appoint a Republican chair who could revise the definition of broadband and give the funding back to Starlink, said Joe Madden, founder and chief analyst of wireless market intelligence company Mobile Experts. And Madden expects the FCC could give Starlink more spectrum, which is the set of radio frequencies the company uses to provide broadband internet. Elon Musk has a few million users on Starlink right now, Madden said. But if he were able to double the amount of spectrum that he has, he could double the number of customers on his Starlink service and double the amount of money he makes. Social media faces crackdown With an estimated 600 million users worldwide, X formerly known as Twitter has transformed modern communications, giving individuals a platform from which to share everything from their political beliefs to memes of cats falling off counters. But with X and other social media companies' incredible reach has come increased government scrutiny, in particular on the technologys intrusion into peoples personal data and impact on children and teenagers. In July, the U.S. Senate passed legislation banning social media platforms from collecting personal information from users under 17 years old without their consent and from exposing them to targeted advertising. The bill is still pending in the House. Advocates want Congress to go even further, urging lawmakers to change federal law that protects social media companies from being sued over the content posted on their platforms something trade group Technet warned earlier this year would result in unintended consequences that would fundamentally change how we communicate and interact online. Republicans in Congress have so far resisted those calls to change federal law, a stance that is only expected to harden when Trump and Musk, who bought Twitter for $44 billion in 2022, enter the White House. But momentum against social media companies is growing. UPDATE: We have Democrat controlled county elections boards still "counting votes" having missed statutory deadlines. We now have a lawsuit filed by the NC GOP and Judge Jefferson Griffin. On Henry Hinton's show this morning, he raised concerns about a state Board of Elections with a track record of partisan shananigans, as well as some county boards like Wake with a similar record. There are more cases popping up across the state of people voting twice, and unlike Beaufort County, many of those have not been removed. https://dailyhaymaker.com/monkey-business-report-still-counting-votes/ https://wtpevents.org/so/1fPD0Wt4q?languageTag=en&cid=719e9c0a-7365-49b4-bc97-a1ae26dc88a3 ORIGINAL ARTICLE: On election night, conservative Court of Appeals Judge Jefferson Griffin led radical leftist "social justice warrior" and Democrat appointee Allison Riggs for the NC Supreme Court seat up for election by nearly 10,000 votes. Riggs was co-director of the far left extremist "Southern Coalition for Social Justice" before getting a Democrat political appointment as a judge. Now, the official totals, which are not yet final have the two only a couple of dozen votes apart. Given a history of very partisan and not very straightforward behavior by the Democrat controlled NC Board of Elections, there are major concerns that there is an effort underway to steal this seat for the radical Riggs. In New Hanover County, the county attorney advised their county Board of Elections to get their own attorney because they had clearly violated state election law. Most troubling is the arrogance of the Wake County Board of Elections in openly violating set deadlines to be late to report, and thus able to supply whatever extra votes the Democrats might need. https://redstate.com/sister-toldjah/2024/11/17/nc-supreme-court-race-whats-going-on-n2182097 In Pennsylvania, the Democrats are blatantly trying to steal the Senate seat Republicans have just won. Democrat election officials, trying to change the outcome are brazenly and openly counting votes that even the Democrat controlled state Supreme Court has told them are illegal. The Republican National Committee has filed two lawsuits to stop this assault on democracy. https://www.zerohedge.com/political/anti-maga-pa-officials-go-rogue-keep-counting-illegal-ballots-defiance-state-supreme Thom Tillis takes very different positions on major Democrat administration appointments compared to his position on such appointments from an administration of his own party. When it came to Democrats, Tillis was quick to say he thought presidents should have the team they want and openly praised appointees like Merick Garland who turned out to be partisan hacks who abused their offices. When it comes to Republican appointees, Tillis is qucik to tell the national media he is not happy with some of them. He may even fail to support some. Tillis had no problem when Biden appointed a guy with an undergraduate degree in music and a graduate degree in sociology as Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisors. Neither did he raise a peep about Biden's unqualified DEI hires both in his cabinet and in senior sub-cabinet positions. Now he wants to quibble about Trump picks who are head and shoulders above Biden's appointees on qualifications. https://dailyhaymaker.com/thom-tillis-blessed-obama-biden-appointees-but-fights-trump/ Other senators are standing firm for Trump's appointees like Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin and Eric Schmidt of Missouri: https://archive.is/2024.11.15-040912/https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2024/nov/14/sen-ron-johnson-displays-photo-rachel-levine-sam-b/ https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/justice/3232683/schmitt-defends-gaetz-shake-things-up/ Newsweek has a good article on why dealing with the DC establishment requires just this sort of cabinet. https://www.newsweek.com/trumps-war-dc-establishment-requires-this-exact-cabinet-fight-opinion-1986309 Thom Tillis is an Undocumented Democrat and needs a primary in 2026. Rosemary Nelson: There were some rogue police officers who would have been quite happy for her not to be around The journalists who helped convict killer Iain Packer have said new allegations were being investigated after winning a Bafta for their documentary on the murder of Emma Caldwell. Packer, 51, believed to be Scotlands worst sex offender, was sentenced to life with a minimum term of 36 years in February after being found guilty of murdering Ms Caldwell, 27, in 2005 as well as 11 rapes and 21 other charges, including sexual assaults, against other women. The company which owns a cruise ship that was stranded in Belfast for four months is offering disgruntled US voters the chance to escape Donald Trumps presidency by travelling the world for four years. Villa Vie Residences is seeking to cash in on the recent election result by offering Americans a lengthy stay on-board the Odyssey ship with prices starting at around 127,000 ($160k) per person. Four Tour La Vie deals are on offer to guests who want to visit more than 425 ports in 140 countries and they are overtly marketed at Democrat supporters. They include the One-Year Escape from Reality package, the Two-Year Mid-Term Selection and the Three-Year Everywhere but Home deal. Those most worried about whats in store during President Trumps term in office are encouraged to select the Four-Year Skip Forward by the company's founder and CEO. "If you're looking for an escape... there is no better place than on a ship, right, where you can wake up every day to a new backyard and get everything you need taken care of," Mikael Petterson said. However, Mr Petterson said the firm began working on the savvy marketing campaign before polling day and would have rolled it out regardless of who won. "It's not really a political campaign at all, he insisted. "It just happened that Trump won and there are more Democrats that are unhappy living in the US now than Republicans. Those seeking to escape will be hoping for no repeat of the problems which forced passengers to spend all summer in Belfast. Villa Vie Residences' Odyssey in Belfast Lough. Pic by Jonathan Porter/PressEye. Just a few weeks before the election on November the vessel was described as cursed by a passenger who complained about not being able to flush the toilets or have a hot shower on the luxury ship. It had only recently set sail from Belfast Lough after being plagued by issues. Resident Joe Rhodes, who nicknamed the ship SS Clusterf*** complained about a string of onboard problems once the round-the-world trip finally began. Nothing from the taps, nothing from the showers and most importantly no way to flush the toilets. Most residents didnt realise this the shutdown happening in the middle of the night until AFTER theyd made deposits, so to speak, he wrote on Substack. Yep, we awakened to the faint smell of s*** marinating in a hundred unflushed bowls, wafting through the corridors, gently mixing with the ocean breeze. In a later update Rhodes confirmed that things were sailing more smoothly as problems were resolved. However, Mr Petterson said the two swimming pools needed complete replacement and over $700k of work before they could operate. The CEO previously said problems were encountered as a result of being anchored outside in Belfast which meant forward water tanks were full. We transferred water to the rear overnight where we had to turn off water temporarily. This affected all water including toilets. This lasted til the morning hours where residents did not have water when they woke up in the morning. Water was back on in the morning and has since been operational. Residents have been able to enjoy every port since. Detectives are appealing for information following an arson attack at a vacant property in the Weaver's Grange area of Newtownards in the early hours of this morning. Image: Pacemaker Detectives are appealing for information following an arson attack at a vacant property in the Weaver's Grange area of Newtownards in the early hours of this morning. Image: Pacemaker Police are investigating a possible link to an ongoing loyalist feud in Newtownards following an arson attack overnight. The PSNI said the vacant property in the Weavers Grange area was targeted after midnight and said an accelerant was poured over the door and through the letterbox. They branded it as a reckless attack and said the fire could have had serious consequences for nearby properties. Images captured from the scene in the town the morning after showed the house completely gutted as a result of the fire and smoke damage Detectives are appealing for information following an arson attack at a vacant property in the Weaver's Grange area of Newtownards in the early hours of this morning. Image: Pacemaker PSNI Detective Inspector Ryan said: Just after 12.40am, we received a report that our colleagues at Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service were at the scene of a fire. Officers attended and noted that the fire had caused extensive damage to the front door and smoke damage throughout the house. "The Fire Service confirmed that this had been started deliberately when an accelerant had been poured over the door and through the letterbox. Detective Inspector Ryan added: This was a completely reckless attack which could have had serious consequences for those in the neighbouring property. Thankfully, our Fire Service colleagues were able to extinguish the blaze before it spread to them. We are following a number of lines of enquiry, including a possible link to an ongoing loyalist feud in the area. "I would appeal to anyone who may have seen anyone suspicious in the area at the time of the fire or to anyone who may have dash-cam or CCTV footage that could assist with enquiries, to contact detectives on 101 quoting reference 40 of 17/11/24." Police conducting a checkpoint at Weavers Grange in Newtownards last year Last year, the Weavers Grange estate was at the centre of a loyalist paramilitary feud sparked in March when the South East Antrim UDA said they had expelled members living in the town. The move left those members without the support of the paramilitary group, but the deposed loyalists refused to leave, saying they would be operating as the Real UFF. The gang had clashed with a rival UDA faction and homes and businesses were attacked. Around 30 families fled the area during the feuding, with an almost constant police presence for weeks on end. In April around 50 people took South East Antrim UDA murals down from walls in the estate. A number of people have been charged in connection with the gathering, while local women also organised street protests demanding those involved in criminality leave the area. Frances and Patrick Connolly scooped a 115 million EuroMillions jackpot in the New Year's Day lottery draw in 2019. Pic: Liam McBurney/PA Wire Patrick and Frances Connolly from County Armagh won 114,969,775 on New Years Day, 2019. The pair have donated 60 million to their loved ones, after scooping the fourth-largest UK lottery win at the time. Their biggest expenditure after their win was a six-bedroom house in County Durham with seven acres of land, while Mr Connolly drives a second-hand Aston Martin. However, Mrs Connolly, 58, bought a pair of M&S knickers as her first purchase with her newfound wealth. She told The Sun: We left our home with nothing, to keep us safe in case anybody found out about it and came to the house. And they did within minutes. When we arrived at a hotel in England on Friday night, ahead of the press conference, I had to phone our Fiona and say, Will you nip down to Marks & Spencer?. She got a pack of three pairs for 12 quid. She said she has given away more than half of her 115 million fortune because she is addicted to giving to others. The former social worker and teacher has set up two charitable foundations, one named after her late mother Kathleen Graham in Northern Ireland, and the PFC Trust in Hartlepool. She said helping others, whether with money or by volunteering her time, lifted peoples spirits. Mrs Connolly has always been motivated to help others, volunteering for the St John Ambulance from age nine and setting up an Aids helpline when she was a student in Belfast. Mr Connolly still runs plastic businesses, while Mrs Connolly devotes her time to the trusts, which have backed local community groups to help people get into work, buy electronic tablets for old people so they can connect with their families, and supported refugees. Winning such a huge sum has changed the pairs lives, but Mrs Connolly said it does not alter your personality. Previously speaking in 2022, Mrs Connolly was asked why she was happy to give so much away, replying: Oh, who needs all that money? Why wouldnt you? Ive done that all my life. Im not being funny, Id have been a millionaire anyway if I took back all the money Ive given away over the years." If youre stupid before you get it, youre going to be stupid afterwards. Moneys not going to make you sensible. Money liberates you to be the person that you want to be. Frances and Patrick Connolly scooped a 115 million EuroMillions jackpot in the New Year's Day lottery draw in 2019. Pic: Liam McBurney/PA Wire Inside the PSNI Dog Unit Gardai during a search in Ring Commons, Balrothery East, north County Dublin for a man and woman who are missing and believed to be murdered (Brian Lawless/PA) The family of a man who is missing with his girlfriend and believed to have been murdered have made a fresh appeal for information. Gardai, who launched a new search earlier this week, said William Maughan and Anastasija Varslavane were last seen in April 2015. In 2016 the case was upgraded to a murder investigation. Gardai during a search in Ring Commons, Balrothery East, north Co Dublin (Brian Lawless/PA) Helen and Joe Maughan visited the site of the search in north Co Dublin on Saturday. Seven people have previously been arrested by gardai investigating the disappearance. On Friday gardai started a search of open lands in north Co Dublin which is set to continue over the coming days. Mr Maughan and Ms Varslavane were last seen on April 14 2015. Speaking at the site, Mrs Maughan appealed to the public for more information. She said: My thought is, I just hope today is going to be the day that they find William and Ana and please God they will be found. I would like to ask anyone out there that has any information on William and Ana to please pass it on. Its nine years now since April and things change and things have changed. I would like them to look at me and Joe and my family and what were are going through. Just pass any (information) it might be small and doesnt mean a lot to them, but it will mean a lot to us and police. Please pass it on and let us have closure. If I get him back and I bury him, I can go to his grave and I can say good morning son or goodnight son, and I know hes there and before I leave this, my time on Earth and my husband Joe, at least my family wont have to go through what were going through. We will have that closure. The couple had been living in a caravan in Gormanston, Co Meath, but had decided to return to Mr Maughans family home in Tallaght. The couple had been in Balbriggan on April 14, and got a taxi shortly after 2.30pm to Gormanston, where Mr Maughans mother was to collect them and their belongings. The couple had been living in a caravan in Gormanston, Co Meath (Brian Lawless/PA) He spoke to his mother at around 2.30pm, asking her to come to Gormanston, but when she arrived just before 3pm, she could not find the pair. She went on to report them as missing. Gardai said an extensive investigation was launched with several searches and inquiries, and the case was upgraded to a murder investigation after a review in September 2016. A Garda spokesperson said they are keeping the family fully updated, and reissued an appeal for anyone with information about the disappearance and murder of Mr Maughan and Ms Varslavane to speak with investigating gardai. Given the passage of time since their disappearance, individuals personal circumstances may now have changed and people may now be in a position to either speak to investigating gardai or to provide information now that they may not have been able to provide before, they said. Anyone with information should contact Ashbourne Garda Station on 01 8010600 or any Garda station. To provide information confidentially contact the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111. More than 60 organisations, including Greenpeace, Amnesty International and the Palestine Solidarity Campaign came together at the protest on Saturday (Jonathan Brady/PA) Protesters have said the conflict in Gaza and the climate crisis are inextricably linked as around 1,000 demonstrators marched through central London. The protest, involving more than 60 groups including Greenpeace, Extinction Rebellion, Amnesty International and the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, rallied outside the British Museum on Saturday before marching to Downing Street to demand an end to the UKs reliance on fossil fuels and that the Government ends its complicity in Israels escalating genocidal violence. It comes as world leaders have gathered for the UNs Cop29 climate summit in oil-rich Azerbaijan. In a statement, organisers of the London protest said: The climate crisis and genocide in Gaza are inextricably linked and we must put an end to both. Without human rights, there can be no climate justice. Attendees carried banners and placards bearing messages including ceasefire now, global justice now and end fossil fuels, end the genocide. Protesters chanted free Palestine and beat drums as the march set off. Speaking at the event, Green Party deputy leader Zack Polanski said climate change and the conflict in Gaza represent a crisis with humanity. Protesters marched from the British Museum to Downing Street (Jonathan Brady/PA) Asked about how the issues are linked, Mr Polanski said: The first thing is, its about crisis with humanity. Theres a very obvious link where, if you have fossil fuel companies that dont care about trashing the planet, then of course they dont care about funding weapons and funding the military, which are enabling a genocide and killing people. And if were going to divest away from fossil fuels, oil and gas, as we absolutely should, we should also be divesting away from weapons and the military. The London Assembly member continued: Now, people might go, how do these things become interlinked?, but actually, theyre all around the cost-of-living crisis, the inequality crisis, which is a crisis driven by fossil fuels. At best, all of these crises are a crisis of imagination, where people, particularly governments and politicians who are decision makers, are failing to be visionaries, or look at how the world could be different, and at worst, theyre crises that are systemic racism and oppression that are fuelled by colonialism and empire. Demonstrators chanted ceasefire now as they marched through central London (Jonathan Brady/PA) So its really important that people join the dots together. Erica Finnie, from London, said she attended the march because she wanted to be on the streets and in solidarity with people today. The 30-year-old said: I think that climate change is one of the biggest issues of our time, and it feels like, in the last few weeks, the amalgamation of there being Cop on, Trump being re-elected and the awful ongoing Israeli apartheid of Palestine, just means that issues are coming together in a way that inexplicably links, and it feels like the fossil fuel industrys power over society, its way of driving the climate crisis for decades is contributing to wars. Elaine Brindley, 53, who works in conservation, said: It is about power, so we see that certain countries have more power than others, certain citizens in those countries have more power than others. And also, theres a whole train of thought along the spending on militarism, that a lot of money is spent by governments on what they call defence and militarism and aggression, really, and that money would be better spent on social things, looking after people and solving issues like the climate crisis. Demonstrators called for an end to the conflict in Gaza (Jonathan Brady/PA) There was a brief pause in the march when around 30 protesters broke away from the main demonstration outside an office of Socar, the Azerbaijan-owned oil company, on the Strand. The group held up red-painted hands while chanting Cop29, stop the lies, greenwashing genocide and bore a large black banner featuring the words BP Socar stop fuelling genocide. No more lies, we want action arms embargo, energy sanction, they added. The protest ended with a rally outside Downing Street, where speakers including Mr Polanski and a spokesperson for the Palestine Solidarity Campaign addressed attendees and called for a ceasefire in Gaza and social and climate justice. President Joe Biden has authorised Ukraines use of US-supplied long-range missiles to strike inside Russia for the first time, according to AP sources. The decision is a major US policy shift and comes as Mr Biden is about to leave office. President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to limit American support for Ukraine and end the war as soon as possible. President-elect Donald Trump, photographed with Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky, has suggested that he may push for Ukraine to give up land seized by Russia in a bid to end the war (Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP) The weapons are likely to be used in response to North Koreas decision to send thousands of troops to Russia in support of President Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine, according to one source. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskys reaction Sunday was notably restrained. Strikes are not made with words, he said during his nightly video address. Such things are not announced. The missiles will speak for themselves. Mr Zelensky and many of his Western supporters have been pressing Mr Biden for months to allow Ukraine to strike military targets inside Russia with Western-supplied missiles, saying the US ban had made it impossible for Ukraine to try to stop Russian attacks on its cities and electrical grids. Mr Zelenskys statement came shortly after he posted a message of condolence on Telegram following a Russian attack on a nine-story building that killed at least eight people in the northern city of Sumy, 40 kilometres (24 miles) from the border with Russia. Russia also launched a massive drone and missile attack, described by officials as the largest in recent months, targeting energy infrastructure and killing civilians. The attack came as fears are mounting about Moscows intentions to devastate Ukraines power generation capacity before the winter. And this is the answer to everyone who tried to achieve something with Putin through talks, phone calls, hugs, and appeasement, Mr Zelensky said. Some supporters have argued that the limitation and other US constraints could cost Ukraine the war. The debate has become a source of disagreement among Ukraines Nato allies. Mr Biden had remained opposed, determined to hold the line against any escalation that he felt could draw the US and other Nato members into direct conflict with Russia. Joe Biden has approved Ukraines use of US long-range missiles in strikes against Russian military targets (Edmar Barros/AP) But North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to Russia to help Moscow try to claw back land in the Kursk border region that Ukraine seized this year. The introduction of North Korean troops to the conflict comes as Moscow has seen a favourable shift in momentum. Mr Trump has signalled that he could push Ukraine to agree to give up some land seized by Russia to find an end to the conflict. As many as 12,000 North Korean troops have been sent to Russia, according to US, South Korean and Ukrainian assessments. Intelligence from the US and South Korea says that North Korea has sent thousands of troops to Russia and provided the country with significant amounts of munitions (Kristina Kormilitsyna, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP) American and South Korean intelligence officials say North Korea also has provided Russia with significant amounts of munitions to replenish its dwindling weapons stockpiles. Mr Trump, who takes office in January, spoke for months as a candidate about wanting Russias war in Ukraine to be over, but he mostly ducked questions about whether he wanted US ally Ukraine to win. He also repeatedly slammed the Biden administration for giving Kyiv tens of billions of dollars in aid. His election victory has Ukraines international backers worrying that any rushed settlement would mostly benefit Mr Putin. America is Ukraines most valuable ally in the war, providing more than 56.2 billion dollars in security assistance since Russian forces invaded in February 2022. Worried about Russias response, however, the Biden administration has repeatedly delayed providing some specific advanced weapons sought by Ukraine, only agreeing under pressure from Ukraine and in consultation with allies, after long denying such a request. That includes initially refusing Mr Zelenskys pleas for advanced tanks, Patriot air defence systems, F-16 fighter jets, among other systems. The White House agreed in May to allow Ukraine to use the ATACMS missile system for limited strikes just across the border with Russia. President Joe Biden's administration officials are racing against the clock to distribute billions in grants and implement final measures to safeguard key aspects of the president's legacy before President-elect Donald Trump assumes office in January. Trump has vowed to roll back unspent funds from Biden's signature climate and health care legislation and halt clean-energy development projects. The Biden administration is also focusing on urging swift Senate approval for judicial nominees to secure long-term influence on the courts. "There's only one administration at a time," Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg told reporters at a news conference Thursday, the Associated Press reported. "That's true now, and it will also be true after January 20th. Our responsibility is to make good use of the funds that Congress has authorized for us and that we're responsible for assigning and disbursing throughout the last three years." Officials are working to ensure that projects funded under the $1 trillion infrastructure law and $375 billion climate law continue seamlessly beyond Biden's term. "We are investing in better transportation systems that touch every corner of the country and in the workers who will manufacture materials and build projects,Buttigieg said. "Communities are going to see safer commutes, cleaner air and stronger supply chains that we all count on. Meanwhile, Pentagon press secretary Sabrina Singh said this week that President Biden is determined to "spend down the authority that Congress has allocated and authorized before he leaves office." To meet this goal, the administration must expedite $7.1 billion in weapons transfers $4.3 billion from the 2024 supplemental budget and $2.8 billion from recalculated savings ensuring the funds are obligated before President-elect Trump takes office. The Education Department is also racing to finalize a federal rule to cancel student loans for borrowers facing financial hardship. The proposal, one of Biden's few surviving student loan initiatives, remains in a public comment period until Dec. 2. Afterward, officials will have limited time to implement the rule, a process that typically takes months and is likely to face legal challenges. Smoke rises following an earlier Israeli bombardment on the Gaza Strip (Tsafrir Abayov/AP) An Israeli airstrike on Saturday evening on a UN-run school sheltering displaced people killed 10 and wounded 20, the Palestinian news agency WAFA reported. It said two missiles were fired at the Abu Assi School in the Shati refugee camp on the edge of Gaza City. Israels army said it was looking into the reported strike. The war between Israel and Hamas began after Palestinian militants stormed into Israel on October 7 2023, killing about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting 250 others. The Health Ministry in Gaza has said at least 43,799 Palestinians have been killed in the war. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but has said more than half of those killed have been women and children. The UN Security Councils 10 elected members on Thursday circulated a draft resolution demanding an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza. The US, Israels closest ally, holds the key to whether the council adopts the resolution. The four other permanent members Russia, China, Britain and France are expected to support it or abstain. Large areas of Gaza have been flattened by Israeli bombardment and ground operations (Leo Correa/AP) Israeli air strikes in the Gaza Strip have killed 12 people, according to Palestinian medical officials. Police in Israel, meanwhile, arrested three suspects after flares were fired at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus private residence in the coastal city of Caesarea. In Lebanon, Israeli warplanes pounded the southern suburbs of Beirut after the military warned people to evacuate from at least seven buildings. The Hezbollah militant group has a strong presence in the area, known as the Dahiyeh, and the strikes came as Lebanese officials are considering a United States-brokered ceasefire proposal. One of the strikes hit central Beirut for the first time in weeks. Flares were fired at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus private residence (AP) Authorities said Mr Netanyahu and his family were not at the residence when two flares were fired at it overnight, and there were no injuries. A drone launched by Hezbollah struck the residence last month, also when Mr Netanyahu and his family were away. The police did not provide details about the suspects behind the flares, but officials pointed to domestic political critics of Mr Netanyahu. Israels largely ceremonial president, Isaac Herzog, condemned the incident and warned against an escalation of the violence in the public sphere. Mr Netanyahu has faced months of mass protests over his handling of the hostage crisis unleashed by the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which ignited the ongoing war in Gaza. Critics blame Mr Netanyahu for the security and intelligence failures that allowed the attack to happen and for not reaching a deal with Hamas to release scores of hostages still held inside Gaza. A protest in Tel Aviv demanded a ceasefire deal to return the hostages (Francisco Seco/AP) Israelis rallied again in Tel Aviv on Saturday night to demand a ceasefire deal to return them. Justice minister Yariv Levin meanwhile seized on the flare attack to call for a revival of his plans to overhaul the Israeli judiciary, which had sparked months of mass protests before the war and remains deeply divisive. The time has come to provide full support for the restoration of the justice system and the law enforcement systems, and to put an end to anarchy, rampage, refusal, and attempts to harm the Prime Minister, he said in a statement. Supporters said the judiciary changes aim to strengthen democracy by circumscribing the authority of unelected judges and turning over more powers to elected officials. Opponents see the overhaul as a power grab by Mr Netanyahu, who is on trial for corruption charges, and an assault on a key watchdog. Opposition leader Yair Lapid said in a post on X that he strongly condemns the firing of flares at Mr Netanyahus home while criticising Mr Levins proposal. Levin should go home with rest of this irresponsible government, Mr Lapid wrote. We will not let him turn Israel into an undemocratic state. People gather in Tel Aviv to protest against Benjamin Netanyahus government and call for the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip by Hamas (Francisco Seco/AP) The air strikes killed six people in Nuseirat and another four in Bureij, two built-up refugee camps in central Gaza. Another two people were killed in a strike on Gazas main north-south highway, according to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in the central city of Deir al-Balah, which received all 12 bodies. The war between Israel and Hamas began after Palestinian militants stormed into Israel in October 2023, killing about 1,200 people mostly civilians and abducting 250 others. Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, about a third of them believed to be dead. The health ministry in Gaza says around 43,800 Palestinians have been killed in the war. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but has said women and children make up more than half the fatalities. Around 90% of Gazas population of 2.3 million Palestinians have been displaced, and large areas of the territory have been flattened by Israeli bombardment and ground operations. The Israeli military posted evacuation warnings on X about an hour before the strikes on southern Beirut, which came early Sunday. Local media reported church bells ringing in and around the area to alert residents. Smoke rises from a building hit in an Israeli air strike on southern Lebanon (Mohammed Zaatari/AP) The Israeli military also renewed calls on Sunday for residents in more than a dozen villages in southern Lebanon to flee as ground troops pushed further north. Hezbollah began firing rockets, missiles and drones into Israel the day after Hamass 2023 attack, drawing retaliatory air strikes. The conflict steadily escalated and erupted into all-out war in September. Israeli forces invaded Lebanon on October 1. More than 3,400 people have been killed in Lebanon, according to the countrys health ministry, and more than 1.2 million driven from their homes. It is not known how many of the dead are Hezbollah fighters. On the Israeli side, Hezbollahs aerial attacks have killed at least 76 people, including 31 soldiers, and caused some 60,000 people to flee from communities in the north. Tensions flared over a proposed pact that would allow Russians to buy apartments in the region (AIASHARA Independent Agency via AP) Opposition protesters in Georgias breakaway province of Abkhazia have refused to cede control of key government buildings that demonstrators stormed to protest new measures allowing Russians to buy property in the area. Abkhazian President Aslan Bzhania announced that he would step down and hold early elections if demonstrators vacated the regions parliament building. But crowds that gathered in the Abkhazian capital, Sukhumi, rejected the deal and opposition leaders said they would only accept Mr Bzhanias unconditional resignation. None of us have come here for the sake of seats (in parliament), former Abkhazian prime minister Valery Bganba told the crowd in a video livestreamed on social media. We came here to save our people, our country. At least 14 people were injured on Friday when opposition protesters clashed with police, Russian state news outlet RIA Novosti reported. Legislators had gathered at the regions parliament building to discuss ratifying measures allowing Russian citizens to buy property in the breakaway state. However, the session was postponed as demonstrators broke down the gate to the buildings grounds with a truck and streamed inside. Some threw rocks at police, who responded with tear gas. Most of Abkhazia broke away from Georgia in fighting that ended in 1993, and Georgia lost control of the rest of the territory in the short war with Russia in 2008. Russia recognises Abkhazia as an independent country, but many Abkhazians are concerned that the region of about 245,000 people is a client state of Moscow. There was anger over a measure to allow Russian citizens to buy Georgian land (AIASHARA Independent Agency via AP) Opponents of the property agreement say it will drive up prices of apartments and boost Moscows dominance in the region. Abkhazias mountains and Black Sea beaches make it a popular destination for Russian tourists and the demand for holiday homes could be strong. The arrest of five opposition figures at a similar demonstration set off wide protests the next day in which bridges leading to Sukhumi were blocked. Also on Saturday in Georgias capital Tblisi, the head of the Central Electoral Commission was doused with black paint at a meeting to confirm the results of the countrys divisive October 26 parliamentary elections. Protesters gathered outside the commissions building in Tbilisi, where officials announced that the ruling Georgian Dream party had won 53.93% of the vote. Opposition supporters have rejected the results amid allegations that the vote was rigged, an accusation that Georgian Dream denies. The Saturday session was interrupted when David Kirtadze, a commission member from the opposition United National Movement party, threw black paint at commission chairman Giorgi Kalandarishvili. Before the incident, Mr Kirtadze told Mr Kalandarishvili that the official results of the vote did not reflect voters true choice. Mr Kalandarishvili responded by saying that the use of pressure, bullying and personal insults proved that there was no evidence of vote rigging. When the meeting resumed, Mr Kalandarishvili was seen with a bandaged eye. It once again becomes evident that there is no tangible proof indicating that the elections were manipulated, he told the audience. European election observers have described the Georgian parliamentary elections as taking place in a divisive atmosphere marked by instances of bribery, double voting and physical violence. Many Georgians viewed the vote as a pivotal referendum on the countrys effort to join the European Union. The bloc suspended Georgias membership application process indefinitely in June after the countrys parliament passed a foreign influence law that critics say mimics Moscows crackdown on civil society. Critics have accused the ruling Georgian Dream, established by Bidzina Ivanishvili, a billionaire who made his fortune in Russia, of becoming increasingly authoritarian and tilted toward Moscow. It has recently adopted laws similar to those used by the Kremlin to crack down on freedom of speech and LGBTQ+ rights. President Salome Zourabichvili, who has rejected the official results, says Georgia has fallen victim to pressure from Moscow against joining the European Union. Ms Zourabichvili, who holds a mostly ceremonial position, has urged the US and EU to support the demonstrations. Officials in Washington and Brussels have urged a full investigation of the election, while the Kremlin has rejected the accusations of interference. Exclusive | East Belfast UVF snubs Shankill to back Mackers at Remembrance Sunday show of strength Veteran loyalist backed by up to 300 at Ballybeen show of strength, vastly outnumbering attendance at rival event Stephen 'Mackers' Matthews at a Remembrance Sunday UVF commemoration Ciaran Barnes Sun 17 Nov 2024 at 08:00 More than 300 East Belfast UVF members came out in support of prominent loyalist Stephen Mackers Matthews in a Remembrance Sunday show of strength. IRA Birmingham bombers should grow b******s and own up, says victims sister Activist vows never to give up fight for justice as 50th anniversary of atrocity nears The aftermath of one of the Birmingham pub bombings John Toner Sun 17 Nov 2024 at 08:13 A justice campaigner whose sister was killed in the Birmingham bombings has told those responsible to grow some b******s and admit their guilt. Exclusive | Loyalist killer warned by UVF: Return to NI and we will shoot you Notorious loyalist killer wants to come home as jail term in England nears end, but has too many enemies to be safe Mark Haddock Ciaran Barnes Sun 17 Nov 2024 at 08:25 Special Branch agent Mark Haddock has been warned that he will be killed if he returns to Northern Ireland after his release from prison. NI-born TV writer behind Day of the Jackal hit once wrongly convicted of IRA murder Showrunner spent year in Long Kesh after RUC man was shot dead in Rathcoole in 1974 Ronan Bennett attends the UK premiere of The Day Of The Jackal in London David O'Dornan Sun 17 Nov 2024 at 08:35 A screenwriter who was wrongly convicted of an IRA murder has broken the record for viewing figures on Sky TV with a series about an assassin. Shamed mum-of-two shocked parents by attending event at Methodist College Paedophile schoolteacher Judith Evans attended an event at one of Northern Irelands most prestigious schools, where she once worked, while on bail for child sexual abuse offences. Sunday Life can reveal Evans is a former employee of Methodist College Belfast and was present on school grounds while she was awaiting trial on 12 charges relating to the sexual abuse of a child. WILLIAMSTOWN When the new occupants of Green River Farms took over earlier this year, they promised that they'd reopen the store on the property. On Nov. 9, they delivered. The farm store's soft opening was successful, Green River Regenerative Managing Director Morgan Hartman said Thursday. The store will be open most Saturdays, from about noon to 4 p.m. on a pop-up basis whenever they can do it. That's because they need someone who can explain the difference between organic and regenerative farming to run it, but they don't want to hire someone for a retail position when inventory is low. We dont have a giant inventory, Hartman said. We do have beef, pork and chicken, weve got T-shirts and some other things for sale. We opened now mostly as a response to the interest and excitement weve heard people are constantly asking us when were going to open up. A lack of freezer space in the store also limits the amount of frozen meat it can carry. It will only be selling frozen, not fresh, meat. Hartman and a team of four others are currently running the farm, and the stores opening, albeit on a limited basis, is a sign of more to come. What's in store for Green River? As spring approaches, when were ramping up production on eggs and poultry, and were lambing, the farm will hire more people, Hartman said. Already the farm has scheduled two soil health academies for next year, an educational aspect from the owners of the venture, which are essentially three-day, intensive conferences on soil health and farming. The farm will also be holding its first dinner event on Dec. 14 with CRISP Catering and the Berkshire Cider Project pork and lamb used for the meal will come from the farm. At the moment, the farm has about 100 sheep and 30 pigs. Hartman is running things on the ground, while Understanding Ag is leasing the 235-acre farm from its recent buyers, Jan-Gisbert Schultze and Paul-Bernhard Kallen, who are managing partners at Acton Capital, a venture capital firm in Munich. The property previously sat vacant for years. The new owners are invested in a food distribution business in Vermont called Farmers to You. That company was started to help aggregate well-produced foods and provide a market for smaller-scale farmers with marketing in the greater Boston area. Green River Regenerative will be supplying Farmers to You. Carving their place in the community It hasnt been the easiest road the past several months, Hartman said, as the farm is still trying to get its cider press up and running following mold issues in the building. It still intends to use apples grown on the property mostly for cider. In spite of the somewhat slow start, and next year being the beginning of the first full year in the farm, Hartman is encouraged by how Green River has been carving out its place in the community. The welcome weve gotten from the South Williamstown community has been fantastic, Hartman said. The soft opening was received very well, and folks came in out of curiosity, and just an interest in seeing the thing thrive. BTS 2024 to showcase 50 cutting-edge products and tech solutions: Priyank Kharge November 16, 2024 | Saturday | News Government of Karnataka is recognising and rewarding outstanding technology-based Karnataka startups The 27th Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) 2024 organised by the Department of Electronics, IT and Bt, Government of Karnataka between November 19-21, 2024 at the Bangalore Palace, will be showcasing 50 cutting-edge products and tech solutions across 30 sectors, including Healthtech, Agritech, Manufacturing, Edutech, and more from startups at the Startup Pavilion said Priyank Kharge, Minister for Information Technology & Biotechnology and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, Government of Karnataka. Speaking to media in Bangalore on November 16, the Minister said BTS 2024 promises to be a pivotal platform for startups, with 2500+ startup from India and beyond are attending the summit. At the Startup Springboard, over 300 startups will showcase their offerings and solutions before over 100 investors and venture capitalists from across the country. This will help the companies to attract the attentions of the investors community and mentors. This is first of its kind initiative being organized by any state in the country. Some of the mentors such as Dr Sridhar Ramanathan, Sr. Vice President, IKP; G. S. Krishnan, President, Association for Biotech-Led Enterprises (ABLE), Dr. Taslimarif Saiyed, Director & Chief Executive Officer, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP) and Raj Nayan Datta, Partner, Waterbridge Ventures will talk to startups so as to help them to navigate upcoming challenges in their startup journey. In addition, the summit has Founders Stage- a dedicated 3-day startup track with influential speakers and Startup Conclave- Featuring notable voices like Nuseir Yassin, the celebrated digital storyteller and founder of Nas Daily. The Minister further noted that the government of Karnataka is recognising and rewarding outstanding technology-based Karnataka startups who are building innovative products and solutions in IT, Biotech, Medtech, with high potential of employment generation or wealth creation, demonstrating measurable social impact and for outstanding achievements through The Bengaluru Impact Awards. The nominated companies will be evaluated by a jury, which comprises a leading panel of experts from the Indian entrepreneurship ecosystem, investors, policy makers and respected business leaders. The panel will evaluate the applicants based on few criteria. Kharge further pointed out that the BTS has a special programme called Lab to Market at the dedicated exhibition pavilion which invites premier research institutes from across India to showcase their expertise. It offers a platform for one-on-one meetings with industry leaders, startups, and investors, with the goal of accelerating the Lab-to-Market journey of groundbreaking innovations. This initiative aims to recognize disruptive research ideas and transform them into market-ready technologies with significant potential. Besides, Kharge said that there are Smart Bio Awards that are instituted with an aim to recognize emerging biotechnology firms making impact in their chosen fields like Biopharma, Services, Agribiotech, Medtech etc. Cyndi Lauper, covered in confetti, performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Aly & AJ warmed up for Cyndi Lauper during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Singing about girls made Cyndi Lauper an 80s pop icon. More than four decades after her debut hit, Lauper is on her farewell tour. And she's still rallying for women. "Right now we are still second-class citizens because we don't have autonomy over our own bodies," she told the Saturday night crowd at Toyota Center. It was one of several intersectional moments of art and activism during the almost two-hour show. MORE FROM JOEY GUERRA: John Waters on the history of his cult classic 'Hairspray' Advertisement Article continues below this ad Lauper's statement preceded "Sally's Pigeons," a 1993 song about her childhood friend who died from a back-alley abortion. She released a new version in response to the repeal of Roe v. Wade. Lauper's rebel streak is often reduced to her hair color or 80s tulle skirts. But she's always been much more than that. Her songs are statements of empowerment, celebration, defiance. Onstage, they still crackle with energy. Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Opener "She Bop," a New Wave ode to masturbation, arrived with a confetti blast. Lauper said she recorded "I Drove All Night" because there weren't enough songs about women driving, a symbol of power and control. She described soulful ballad "Who Let in the Rain" as the start of a new musical chapter for her in the 90s. The show was a much-needed release for many, a night of communion and community. "I have played here in many incarnations, this being my last," Lauper said. Her first Houston show in 1984 at The Summit spawned the live music video for "Money Changes Everything," a song Lauper said she always felt was true "but never more than now." She has performed at House of Blues, Cullen Performance Hall and Revention Music Center. The True Colors Tour, a multiartist event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, played two years at the Woodlands Pavilion. Lauper returned as support for Tina Turner and Cher. And she walked through the crowd disguised in a gorilla suit for a high-energy show at Rich's. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Cyndi Lauper performs during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer She packed all those eras into Saturday night's show for fans of multiple generations in brightly colored wigs and 80s fashion. Her "Goonies" anthem was as silly fun as ever. She put her unique bite into a cover of rockabilly legend Wanda Jackson's "Funnel of Love." She showcased a multitude of looks, including some by "Project Runway" winner Christian Siriano, who advised her that "the gays want glamour." At 71 years old, Lauper's voice has a striking amount of power. She belts, improvises and radiates raw emotion, often within a single song. The trifecta of "When You Were Mine," "I Drove All Night" and "I'm Gonna be Strong" was a master class in pop performance. Aly & AJ warmed up for Cyndi Lauper during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun farewell tour at Toyota Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer "Time After Time" was the superstar moment Lauper so richly deserved. The entire crowd sang along, holding their cell phones high to create a sea of twinkling lights. They poured similar energy into "Shine," an ebullient 2002 single that should have been a massive hit. Lauper moved to a small stage near the back of the venue for "True Colors" and held a long, sheer rainbow flag that billowed above her as she guided it with sweeping motions. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "Power to all the people. Not just some," she said before ending the song. Apologising for arriving a minute late due to some technical difficulties, Connor Wood virtually joins BreakingNews.ie from a well-lit, well-designed, Los Angeles apartment. My Zoom never works when I need it to, he begins, and we set off into the interview. "Who is Connor Wood? Oh my gosh, youre hitting me with that right away. Wow, I dont know, Ive never met him, I guess now hes a comedian," Wood laughs, not knowing how to quite describe himself. He started making TikTok videos during the Covid pandemic, like many other social media stars, and "it's just all kind of moved really quickly into being a comedian," Wood says. "That's the funniest part of the whole thing, is that it was an accident." But comedy is freeing, he says. Rather than being confined to the one- (or now 10-) minute time limits of TikTok, he can elaborate on things more on stage, talking slower. "If you do three of your one-minute videos that can transition into five minutes, now you've got 15 minutes on the stage, it's actually kind of freeing," he says, "because I don't have to make it a minute, I can talk and talk - and I love talking, so it was nice to move over to the stage." Advertisement The TikTok-star turned podcaster turned comedian is taking to Dublins Liberty Hall Theatre on November 27th as part of his Fibs & Friends tour. However, the move to the stage was not all plain sailing, Wood says. "It took me a while to not be so scared because I can delete a video, I can't delete myself off the stage in the middle of the set, but, I'm getting the hang of it, I think. "It's going really well, I'm knocking on wood over here, but it's been pretty unbelievable, with taking it offline, and there's so much more to come too. It's been great, but it's just getting better." Woods' podcast, Brooke and Connor Make A Podcast, with Brooke Averick, is also connected to his stand-up career, he explains. Advertisement "There's a lot of overlap with the podcast and conversations I have with Brooke, and when I go and do these shows, a lot of stories that I'm telling people are already familiar with because of the podcast, so it'll save me time. I'll be like, remember, my landlord and everyone is like, yes. "I don't have to explain the characters or who these people are. Everyone is kind of familiar, and I think because of the podcast, they [the fans] want to be part of the growth, they know I'm brand new, I'm not a veteran comedian, but I think everyone, especially the podcast listeners are excited to be part of the whole process," Wood says. The challenges that come with being a stand-up comedian and being a content creator are different though, Wood iterates. "Yeah, my life is so hard," he laughs, before becoming more serious. "The challenges are different every day. The touring is kind of taxing, to go place, to place, to place, I haven't seen my dog in three months, and travelling is not great when it's every day. "But it's been really rewarding. I think I'm in a part now, where I'm learning more again. I don't have to do the same set, I can tweak it, I can try new stuff, and so I'm in that era right now where I'm trying new stuff and getting the crowd more engaged, which they're having a lot more fun with because they're part of the show. Advertisement "It's been really fun, so I'm excited for this era right now. It's challenging, it's really challenging to do crowd work and not have a punch line ready. You just have to trust that you can get somewhere with a conversation, but it's been so far so good. I know the next show, now that I say that, I'm going to bomb," he laughs, lightening the mood again. Wood has never been to Ireland, and is scared of flying. "I'm going to have to be knocked out. I'm going to have to be asleep the whole time," he says. Regardless though, he's excited, "over the moon" in fact, to go global with his comedy. Advertisement "It's going to be a learning experience." "It's going to be such a new experience and I'm scared again, which is fun because I don't like being super comfortable, and so I think the sets that I have now, they've been pretty consistent, people have been loving them. "I'm hoping it's the same reception, but I'm going to have to tweak some things and I'm going to have to familiarise myself more with the culture, and comedy culture too, so I'm really excited to be uncomfortable, and just to see Ireland," he says. He's doing Thanksgiving in Ireland with his family, as his show falls on November 27th, the day before the holiday. Advertisement Lifestyle How might a social media ban benefit under-16s a... Read More His parents are flying to London with him for his London show on November 23rd, and they will travel to Ireland together. At the time of the interview, Wood had no specific plans for Ireland, but "will see what pub serves turkey" for the big day, and as excited as he is to go international with his tour, he is really excited about seeing his dog afterward, so he is only staying in Ireland for a couple of days. "I just need to get to my dog. He's in Texas, he's been having a great time with his grandparents, but I'm jealous, and he's going to forget who I am, so I need to get to him ASAP," Wood says. Connor Wood performs at Dublin's Liberty Hall Theatre on November 27th, with tickets available here. Gerry Hutch has said Ireland "needs immigration", but said immigrants coming into the country should "bring your toolbox with you and bring your skills". In an interview with the Sunday Independent, Hutch said immigrants should not come to Ireland and "expect to sponge off the dole". Advertisement Hutch will run in the Dublin Central constituency in the upcoming general election. On the hot topic of immigration, Hutch asserted that Ireland has always needed immigration, but that those coming into the country must be willing to work. "This country needs immigration. It always has. I remember as a kid, immigration up in Summerhill, the fish and chips shops. There's a guy there, [he] gives free chips to people who are hungry. He's immigration. He's more Irish now than he is Italian," he said. "I welcome integration and immigrants coming into Ireland, but bring your toolbox with you and bring your skills. Don't come into Ireland and expect to sponge off the dole. Advertisement He said "we can make an allowance" for people coming in from Ukraine, but said he felt some asylum seekers coming into Ireland from elsewhere are "not being vetted" and that they are regularly housed in underprivileged areas rather than in "D4". On why he is running, Hutch said people in his community have asked him to and that he wants to serve the people of Dublin. "I'm doing it because people in my community asked me to. I want to serve the people of Dublin 1,3, and 7. I want to serve the country. I've a list as long as my arm on the things that need to be done," he told the Sunday Independent. "But I'm not the type of person who would be anyone for their vote. If you want to vote for me, then do. I won't be twisting anyone's arm. I will be out, knocking on certain doors. Advertisement "People can tell me to f**k off if they're not interested. I have to expect that cheek from people. Am I confident I'll get elected? Absolutely I am." Gerry Hutch told the Sunday Independent that he "couldn't care less" about Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald and is not running to try and take her seat. "It's nothing whatsoever to do with Mary Lou. I couldn't care less about what she does, or what Sinn Fein say they will do," he said. "I'm focused on what I will do. I could probably be considered old, but I'm fresh. I've a lot of life experience. To go into the Dail, you have to be hungry and ready to fight, and I am." Advertisement Hutch said his number one priority is homelessness and housing, adding that there are almost 4,500 homeless children and that this turns them into "child criminals". "On top of that, we have the housing crisis, not enough places for people to buy affordable homes. It's an emergency situation," he said. Ireland Taoiseach warns against treating Gerry Hutch like... Read More "If there's a flood, there are emergency measures. This is the same. There are derelict properties all over this city. I've been involved in property deals for years, so I have experience. They all need to be bought up by the State. "There is too much red tape in this country. We have to get rid of the red tape, and quickly." If he is elected, Hutch said he will "be doing everything in the best interest of my constituency and the country". "And if I have to work with Mary Lou, or if I have to work with Micheal Martin, then I would." Taoiseach and Fine Gael leader Simon Harris said he stands by a Fine Gael Senator John McGahon, who was found by the High Court to be civilly liable for an assault. Photos have been published in a Sunday newspaper showing the extent of facial injuries suffered by Breen White following the 2018 assault. Advertisement Harris said his party will continue to stand by, and canvass for, Mr McGahon, who is a general election candidate in Louth. McGahon was found not guilty of assault in a criminal trial of the case, but a High Court jury found him 65 per cent civilly liable. Taoiseach Simon Harris said: "Yes my party will continue to canvass for him. These matters were all examined in a court of law. "A jury sat in Louth, a jury looked at the CCTV, the jury looked at images. Advertisement "A defence was put forward, a defence of self-defence was put forward, and a jury found him not guilty." A High Court jury awarded Breen White 39,000 against Fine Gael Senator John McGahon over the late night assault outside a pub. Breen White, a farmer from Castleblaney, Co Monaghan, sued Mr McGahon for assault and battery outside the Rum House pub in Dundalk, Co Louth, on June 16th, 2018. Ireland Fine Gael Senator John McGahon ordered to pay 39,... Read More Mr McGahon (33), who was elected to the Seanad after the incident, denied the claims and said he was assaulted and acted in self-defence. The jury was asked to decide if he was assaulted and whether any damage suffered by Mr White was caused or partly caused by want of care on his part. The jury, after just over three hours of deliberations, found he had been assaulted and awarded a total of 60,000, including 10,000 for aggravated damages. They apportioned blame at 65 per cent against Mr McGahon and 35 per cent against Mr White. Mr Justice Alexander Owens, who presided over the four-day trial, gave a decree for 39,000 against Mr McGahon. Gardai have arrested a man (20s) after Revenue officers seized suspected LSD with an estimated value of 200,000 at Dublin Airport on Friday. The man has since been charged and is due to appear before the Criminal Courts of Justice in Dublin on Monday morning. Advertisement Investigations are ongoing, gardai said. Earlier this week, a man and women were arrested after approximately 36,000 worth of heroin was seized in Galway on Wednesday. This comes after a car was stopped by the Galway Divisional Drugs Unit at Cappataggle, Co Galway, at around 11pm on the day. In excess of 252 grams of heroin (with an estimated street value of 35,700, subject to analysis) was seized and a man and a woman, both aged in their 50s, were arrested. They are both being held in a Garda station in Galway, and can be held for up to seven days. An arrest warrant was issued by French authorities for a man who failed a roadside breath test in Dublin. Gardai were conducting a mandatory intoxicant testing checkpoint in Coolock, Dublin on Saturday when a man was stopped and tested. Advertisement The driver failed the roadside breath test. He was subsequently arrested and taken to a Dublin Garda Station. Following a search of the Garda Pulse system and SIS II (Schengen Information System), Gardai were alerted to a European Arrest Warrant (EAW) for the driver of the vehicle. The warrant had been issued by French authorities. The man, aged in his 40s, was brought before the High Court on Sunday afternoon and remanded in custody to appear before the High Court again on 29th November 2024. As this matter is now before the courts An Garda Siochana will not be providing further comment. President Joe Biden has authorised Ukraines use of US-supplied long-range missiles to strike inside Russia for the first time, according to AP sources. The decision is a major US policy shift and comes as Mr Biden is about to leave office. Advertisement President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to limit American support for Ukraine and end the war as soon as possible. President-elect Donald Trump, photographed with Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky, has suggested that he may push for Ukraine to give up land seized by Russia in a bid to end the war (Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP) The weapons are likely to be used in response to North Koreas decision to send thousands of troops to Russia in support of President Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine, according to one source. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskys reaction Sunday was notably restrained. Strikes are not made with words, he said during his nightly video address. Such things are not announced. The missiles will speak for themselves. Advertisement Mr Zelensky and many of his Western supporters have been pressing Mr Biden for months to allow Ukraine to strike military targets inside Russia with Western-supplied missiles, saying the US ban had made it impossible for Ukraine to try to stop Russian attacks on its cities and electrical grids. Mr Zelenskys statement came shortly after he posted a message of condolence on Telegram following a Russian attack on a nine-story building that killed at least eight people in the northern city of Sumy, 40 kilometres (24 miles) from the border with Russia. Russia also launched a massive drone and missile attack, described by officials as the largest in recent months, targeting energy infrastructure and killing civilians. The attack came as fears are mounting about Moscows intentions to devastate Ukraines power generation capacity before the winter. And this is the answer to everyone who tried to achieve something with Putin through talks, phone calls, hugs, and appeasement, Mr Zelensky said. Advertisement Some supporters have argued that the limitation and other US constraints could cost Ukraine the war. The debate has become a source of disagreement among Ukraines Nato allies. Mr Biden had remained opposed, determined to hold the line against any escalation that he felt could draw the US and other Nato members into direct conflict with Russia. Joe Biden has approved Ukraines use of US long-range missiles in strikes against Russian military targets (Edmar Barros/AP) But North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to Russia to help Moscow try to claw back land in the Kursk border region that Ukraine seized this year. Advertisement The introduction of North Korean troops to the conflict comes as Moscow has seen a favourable shift in momentum. Mr Trump has signalled that he could push Ukraine to agree to give up some land seized by Russia to find an end to the conflict. As many as 12,000 North Korean troops have been sent to Russia, according to US, South Korean and Ukrainian assessments. Intelligence from the US and South Korea says that North Korea has sent thousands of troops to Russia and provided the country with significant amounts of munitions (Kristina Kormilitsyna, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP) American and South Korean intelligence officials say North Korea also has provided Russia with significant amounts of munitions to replenish its dwindling weapons stockpiles. Advertisement Mr Trump, who takes office in January, spoke for months as a candidate about wanting Russias war in Ukraine to be over, but he mostly ducked questions about whether he wanted US ally Ukraine to win. He also repeatedly slammed the Biden administration for giving Kyiv tens of billions of dollars in aid. His election victory has Ukraines international backers worrying that any rushed settlement would mostly benefit Mr Putin. America is Ukraines most valuable ally in the war, providing more than 56.2 billion dollars in security assistance since Russian forces invaded in February 2022. Worried about Russias response, however, the Biden administration has repeatedly delayed providing some specific advanced weapons sought by Ukraine, only agreeing under pressure from Ukraine and in consultation with allies, after long denying such a request. That includes initially refusing Mr Zelenskys pleas for advanced tanks, Patriot air defence systems, F-16 fighter jets, among other systems. The White House agreed in May to allow Ukraine to use the ATACMS missile system for limited strikes just across the border with Russia. A rare Israeli strike in central Beirut killed the Hezbollah militant groups chief spokesman on Sunday, while an Israeli strike in northern Gazas Beit Lahiya killed at least 30 people, a hospital director said. Mohammed Afif al-Naboulsi was killed in a strike on the Arab socialist Baath partys office in Beirut, Hezbollah confirmed in a statement. Advertisement An aircraft airdrops humanitarian aid over Khan Younis, Gaza Strip (Abdel Kareem Hana/AP/File) Mr Afif had been especially visible after all-out war erupted between Israel and Hezbollah in September. It was the latest targeted killing of senior Hezbollah officials. On Sunday night, another strike in central Beirut hit a computer shop, killing two people and wounding 22, Lebanons Health Ministry said. There was no immediate comment from Israels military for either strike. At least 30 were killed in a strike on a hospital in northern Gaza (File/Leo Correa/AP) The strikes happened as Lebanese officials considered a United States-led ceasefire proposal. This confirms the crimes of the Israeli enemy, and that it wants to negotiate under fire and is expanding and targeting safe and safer areas, said a Lebanese member of parliament, Faisal Al Sayegh. Advertisement Israel also bombed several buildings in Beiruts southern suburbs, where Hezbollah has long been headquartered, after warning people to evacuate. Earlier, Israeli strikes killed at least 12 people in the Gaza Strip, officials said, where Israel has been at war with Hamas for more than a year. The last Israeli strike in central Beirut was on October 10, when 22 people were killed in strikes on two locations. People search through the rubble of a destroyed building at the site of an Israeli air strike in central Beirut (Bilal Hussein/AP) Hezbollah began firing rockets, missiles and drones into Israel the day after Hamass attack on October 7 2023, which ignited the war in Gaza. Advertisement Israel launched retaliatory air strikes in Lebanon and the conflict steadily escalated, erupting into all-out war in September. Israeli forces invaded Lebanon on October 1. Smoke rises from a building hit in an Israeli air strike on southern Lebanon (Mohammed Zaatari/AP) Hezbollah has continued to fire dozens of projectiles into Israel each day and has expanded its range to the central part of the country. The attacks have killed at least 76 people, including 31 soldiers, and caused some 60,000 people to flee in the north. A rocket barrage on the northern city of Haifa on Saturday damaged a synagogue and wounded two civilians. More than 3,400 people have been killed in Lebanon, according to the countrys health ministry, and more than 1.2 million driven from their homes. It is not known how many of the dead are Hezbollah fighters. Advertisement Lebanons army, largely on the sidelines, said an Israeli strike on Sunday hit a military centre in south-eastern Al-Mari, killing two soldiers and wounding two others. There was no immediate Israeli comment. Israeli strikes killed six people in Nuseirat and another four in Bureij, two built-up refugee camps in central Gaza. Another two people were killed in a strike on Gazas main north-south highway, according to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in the central city of Deir al-Balah, which received all 12 bodies. The war between Israel and Hamas began after Palestinian militants stormed into Israel in 2023, killing about 1,200 people mostly civilians and abducting 250 others. Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, about a third of them believed to be dead. Advertisement A protest in Tel Aviv demanded a ceasefire deal to return the hostages (Francisco Seco/AP) The health ministry in Gaza says around 43,800 Palestinians have been killed in the war. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but has said women and children make up more than half the fatalities. Around 90% of Gazas population of 2.3 million Palestinians have been displaced, and large areas of the territory have been flattened by Israeli bombardment and ground operations. Israeli police meanwhile arrested three suspects after flares were fired at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus private residence in the coastal city of Caesarea. Mr Netanyahu and his family were not at the residence when two flares were fired at it overnight, and there were no injuries, authorities said. A drone launched by Hezbollah struck the residence last month, also when Mr Netanyahu and his family were away. The police did not provide details about the suspects behind the flares, but officials pointed to domestic political critics of Mr Netanyahu. Israels largely ceremonial president, Isaac Herzog, condemned the incident and warned against an escalation of the violence in the public sphere. Flares were fired at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus private residence (AP) Mr Netanyahu has faced months of mass protests over his handling of the hostage crisis unleashed by Hamass attack on Israel in 2023. Critics blame Mr Netanyahu for the security and intelligence failures that allowed the attack to happen and for not reaching a deal with Hamas to release scores of hostages still held inside Gaza. Israelis rallied again in the city of Tel Aviv on Saturday night to demand a ceasefire deal to return them. Israeli justice minister Yariv Levin seized on the flare attack on Mr Netanyahus home to call for a revival of his plans to overhaul the Israeli judiciary, which had sparked months of mass protests before the war. The time has come to provide full support for the restoration of the justice system and the law enforcement systems, and to put an end to anarchy, rampage, refusal, and attempts to harm the prime minister, he said in a statement. Supporters said the judiciary changes aim to strengthen democracy by circumscribing the authority of unelected judges and turning over more powers to elected officials. Opponents see the overhaul as a power grab by Mr Netanyahu. People gather in Tel Aviv to protest against Benjamin Netanyahus government and call for the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip by Hamas (Francisco Seco/AP) Many Israelis believe the fierce internal divisions caused by the attempted overhaul had weakened the country and its military ahead of the Hamas assault. Opposition leader Yair Lapid said in a post on X that he strongly condemns the firing of flares at Mr Netanyahus home while criticising Mr Levins proposal. Levin should go home with rest of this irresponsible government, Mr Lapid wrote. We will not let him turn Israel into an undemocratic state. The Harris County Jail at 701 N San Jacinto Street as seen on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024, in Houston. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Authorities are still grappling with the flow of narcotics in the Harris County jail despite numerous arrests, including the most recent lawyer accused of smuggling drug-laced paper to his client, and tasking an investigative team to stop it. The lawyer, Hunter Simmons, 39, is among a trio of attorneys, unconnected to each other, who have been charged in the past year for their alleged role in sneaking drug-laced paper to jailed defendants. Authorities have also cracked down on inmates selling sheets of contaminated paper over the summer. As recently as Oct. 29, detention officers seized a clear bag containing white folded sheets that an inmate allegedly stashed near his groin and traced the documents back to his hired counsel, Simmons. The attorney visited him hours earlier in a room reserved for lawyers to have unfettered access to their clients at the jail, according to court records. The same documents may have been brought to Simmons downtown Houston office by two others as investigators allegedly witnessed the drop. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Simmons client, Joseph Dunn, who was not charged in connection with the tainted documents, pleaded guilty days later to a 2018 killing in exchange for 26 years. Police arrested Simmons, licensed since 2013, more than two weeks later. He appeared in court Friday to address his charges of engaging in organized crime and having a prohibited substance in a correctional facility, waiting outside a courtroom clutching a brown document organizer. He declined to comment on the allegations and had not yet hired an attorney. A retired judge ordered Simmons to hand over a badge that allowed him to skip security checkpoints at the courthouse. Advertisement Article continues below this ad This is a mess of a situation, said Judge Jim Anderson, telling the lawyer that he can continue to come to court and work as an attorney. An 11-page court document outlining the case names more than a dozen people, Simmons included, whose roles ranged from obtaining drug-laced papers from a purported sheet maker, dropping off the documents at the attorneys office or taking payments for the drugs on the outside. But only two others are charged in connection with the latest plot: Dunns girlfriend and a man who brought the documents to the lawyers office. Anderson urged Simmons and a co-defendant to limit their communications. The whole world is watching this case, Anderson warned. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Other lawyers arrested Authorities blamed Ronald Lewis, the first lawyer arrested in November 2023, for running scores of drug-laced documents into the jail after authorities caught him sharing contraband with at least a dozen inmates who were not his clients in exchange for CashApp payments. Ronald Lewis, 77, can be seen in undated surveillance footage at the Harris County Jail while visiting inmates. Photo composite courtesy of Harris County Sheriffs Office As a result, the Harris County Sheriffs Office made sweeping changes to how attorneys can share court documents with their clients, nailing shut slots in attorney visitation booths used to pass records and instructing lawyers to hand court documents to a deputy to review or copy. More from the Houston Chronicle: Three accused of using Harris County Jail to launder drug-laced paper funds, prosecutors say Advertisement Article continues below this ad Despite those precautions, authorities believe Simmons passed Dunn tainted documents in April, according to court documents. Surveillance footage at the jail showed Simmons handing a sheriffs deputy a stack of papers that were then given to Dunn and later seized. The documents contained synthetic cannabinoids, according to a chemical analysis detailed in court records. Jason Johnson, center, listens with his attorney, Vikram Vij, right, as they appear before Judge Brian E. Warren Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024, in Harris County 209th Criminal Court. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Another attorney, Jason Terrel Johnson, was accused in August of giving paper laced with synthetic marijuana to a client in an inmate holdover room attached to the 228th District Court also as undercover investigators kept tabs from the courtrooms gallery. Each of the charges followed a review of jail calls and other communications between inmates and people who were not in jail. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Jason Spencer, Sheriff Ed Gonzalezs chief of staff, said they have made significant strides in curtailing the flow of contraband at the jail, including potentially dangerous drugs. Creating a division of investigators to keep tabs on detention issues has helped. We keep catching people, Spencer said. But inmates keep accessing drugs, with Spencer noting the August death of a man jailed for months was recently attributed to the toxic effects of fentanyl and mirtazepin an antidepressant and declared an accident, according to medical examiner records. The sheriff's office in 2023 shared statistics showing more than 750 sheets of tainted paper were seized during a more than three-month stretch. Recent statistics were not immediately divulged. 'Unwitting lawyers' Joe Vinas, president of the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association, underscored that the three charged attorneys likely have nothing to do with each other. The common denominator is their clientele, he said. What you do have is thousands of people sitting over there in the jail who all talk to each other, all want drugs and know how to get this done, Vinas said. He surmised the three cases will come down to whether prosecutors can prove Lewis, Johnson and now Simmons knowingly brought the drugs into the jail. There are inmates in the Harris County jail who have conspired with people on the outside to get drugs and have tried to use their unwitting lawyers as a mule to get those drugs into the jail, he continued. A prosecutor handling each of the three cases contends Simmons knew about the drugs and at times brought Dunn's girlfriend with him on jail visits an accusation thats absent in court filings. Assistant Harris County District Attorney Kimberly Smith speaks to media Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024, after appearing before Judge Brian E. Warren in Harris County 209th Criminal Court regarding the trial of Jason Johnson in Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer The prosecutor, Kim Smith, said Dunn's girlfriend often spoke to him on the phone about setting up meetings with Simmons under the guise of handing over drug-laced paperwork. It's undaunting to think that this attorney is continuing to do this, even though other attorneys have been arrested and yet he's still doing this, Smith said. It just shows greed, it shows being hungry for money money at the expense of an inmate potentially dying within the jail. Of the three lawyers, only Lewis is unable to practice law in Texas because of failure to comply with continuing legal education requirements. A powerful typhoon wrecked houses, caused towering tidal surges and forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee to emergency shelters as it cut across the northern Philippines on Sunday in the sixth major storm to hit the country in less than a month. Typhoon Man-yi slammed into the eastern island province of Catanduanes on Saturday night with sustained winds of up to 125 miles per hour and gusts of up to 149mph. Advertisement The countrys weather agency warned of a potentially catastrophic and life-threatening situation in provinces along its path. There were no immediate reports of casualties from the typhoon, which was forecast to blow north-westwards on Sunday across northern Luzon, the archipelagos most populous region. Toppled trees caused by Typhoon Man-yi block a road in Viga in the Philippines (MDRRMO Viga Catanduanes via AP) The capital region of metropolitan Manila would probably be spared from a direct hit but was placed, along with outlying regions, under storm alerts and warned of dangerous coastal storm surges. The rain was minimal, but the wind was very strong and had this eerie howling sound, Roberto Monterola, a disaster-mitigation officer in Catanduanes, told the Associated Press. Advertisement Along a main boulevard here, the tidal surges went up to more than seven metres (23 feet) near the seaside houses. It looked really scary. The entire province of Catanduanes had no power after the typhoon knocked down trees and electricity posts, and disaster-response teams were checking how many more houses were damaged in addition to those impacted by previous storms, he said. We need tin roofs and other construction materials, aside from food. Villagers tell us here that they still havent gotten up from the past storm and were pinned down again by this typhoon, Mr Monterola said. Nearly half of the island provinces 80,000 people were sheltering in evacuation centres. Advertisement Catanduanes officials were so concerned as the typhoon approached that they threatened vulnerable villagers with arrest if they did not follow orders to evacuate to safer grounds. A resident recovers belongings from their damaged home caused by Typhoon Man-yi (MDRRMO Viga Catanduanes via AP) More than 750,000 people took refuge in emergency shelters, including churches and a shopping centre, due to Man-yi and two previous storms mostly in the northern Philippines, officials said. The rare number of back-to-back storms and typhoons that lashed Luzon in just three weeks left more than 160 people dead, affected nine million people and caused such extensive damage to residential communities, infrastructure and farmlands that the Philippines may have to import more rice, a staple food for most Filipinos. In an emergency meeting as Man-yi approached, president Ferdinand Marcos Jr asked his Cabinet and provincial officials to brace for the worst-case scenario. Advertisement At least 26 domestic airports and two international airports were temporarily shut and inter-island ferry and cargo services were suspended due to rough seas, stranding thousands of passengers and commuters, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippine and the coast guard. The United States, Manilas treaty ally, along with Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei provided cargo aircraft and other storm aid to augment the governments overwhelmed disaster-response agencies. Last month, the first major storm, Trami, left scores of people dead after dumping one to two months worth of rain in just 24 hours in several towns. The Philippines is battered by about 20 typhoons and storms each year. It is often hit by earthquakes and has more than a dozen active volcanoes, making it one of the worlds most disaster-prone countries. Israeli air strikes in the Gaza Strip have killed 12 people, according to Palestinian medical officials. Police in Israel, meanwhile, arrested three suspects after flares were fired at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus private residence in the coastal city of Caesarea. Advertisement In Lebanon, Israeli warplanes pounded the southern suburbs of Beirut after the military warned people to evacuate from at least seven buildings. The Hezbollah militant group has a strong presence in the area, known as the Dahiyeh, and the strikes came as Lebanese officials are considering a United States-brokered ceasefire proposal. One of the strikes hit central Beirut for the first time in weeks. Flares were fired at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus private residence (AP) Authorities said Mr Netanyahu and his family were not at the residence when two flares were fired at it overnight, and there were no injuries. A drone launched by Hezbollah struck the residence last month, also when Mr Netanyahu and his family were away. Advertisement The police did not provide details about the suspects behind the flares, but officials pointed to domestic political critics of Mr Netanyahu. Israels largely ceremonial president, Isaac Herzog, condemned the incident and warned against an escalation of the violence in the public sphere. Mr Netanyahu has faced months of mass protests over his handling of the hostage crisis unleashed by the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which ignited the ongoing war in Gaza. Critics blame Mr Netanyahu for the security and intelligence failures that allowed the attack to happen and for not reaching a deal with Hamas to release scores of hostages still held inside Gaza. Advertisement A protest in Tel Aviv demanded a ceasefire deal to return the hostages (Francisco Seco/AP) Israelis rallied again in Tel Aviv on Saturday night to demand a ceasefire deal to return them. Justice minister Yariv Levin meanwhile seized on the flare attack to call for a revival of his plans to overhaul the Israeli judiciary, which had sparked months of mass protests before the war and remains deeply divisive. The time has come to provide full support for the restoration of the justice system and the law enforcement systems, and to put an end to anarchy, rampage, refusal, and attempts to harm the Prime Minister, he said in a statement. Supporters said the judiciary changes aim to strengthen democracy by circumscribing the authority of unelected judges and turning over more powers to elected officials. Advertisement Opponents see the overhaul as a power grab by Mr Netanyahu, who is on trial for corruption charges, and an assault on a key watchdog. Opposition leader Yair Lapid said in a post on X that he strongly condemns the firing of flares at Mr Netanyahus home while criticising Mr Levins proposal. Levin should go home with rest of this irresponsible government, Mr Lapid wrote. We will not let him turn Israel into an undemocratic state. People gather in Tel Aviv to protest against Benjamin Netanyahus government and call for the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip by Hamas (Francisco Seco/AP) The air strikes killed six people in Nuseirat and another four in Bureij, two built-up refugee camps in central Gaza. Advertisement Another two people were killed in a strike on Gazas main north-south highway, according to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in the central city of Deir al-Balah, which received all 12 bodies. The war between Israel and Hamas began after Palestinian militants stormed into Israel in October 2023, killing about 1,200 people mostly civilians and abducting 250 others. Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, about a third of them believed to be dead. The health ministry in Gaza says around 43,800 Palestinians have been killed in the war. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but has said women and children make up more than half the fatalities. Around 90% of Gazas population of 2.3 million Palestinians have been displaced, and large areas of the territory have been flattened by Israeli bombardment and ground operations. The Israeli military posted evacuation warnings on X about an hour before the strikes on southern Beirut, which came early Sunday. Local media reported church bells ringing in and around the area to alert residents. Smoke rises from a building hit in an Israeli air strike on southern Lebanon (Mohammed Zaatari/AP) The Israeli military also renewed calls on Sunday for residents in more than a dozen villages in southern Lebanon to flee as ground troops pushed further north. Hezbollah began firing rockets, missiles and drones into Israel the day after Hamass 2023 attack, drawing retaliatory air strikes. The conflict steadily escalated and erupted into all-out war in September. Israeli forces invaded Lebanon on October 1. More than 3,400 people have been killed in Lebanon, according to the countrys health ministry, and more than 1.2 million driven from their homes. It is not known how many of the dead are Hezbollah fighters. On the Israeli side, Hezbollahs aerial attacks have killed at least 76 people, including 31 soldiers, and caused some 60,000 people to flee from communities in the north. Prominent Russian opposition figures have led a march of at least 1,000 people in central Berlin, criticising Russian President Vladimir Putin and his war in Ukraine and calling for democracy in Russia. Behind a banner that read No Putin, No War, the protesters were led by Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of top Putin critic Alexei Navalny, as well as Ilya Yashin and Vladimir Kara-Murza, who were freed from Russian detention in a high-profile prisoner exchange this summer. Advertisement Shouting Russia without Putin and other chants in Russian, the demonstrators held up signs with a wide array of messages on a red background, including Putin = War and Putin is a murderer in German. Some marched with the flags of Russia or Ukraine, as well as a white-blue-white flag used by some Russian opposition groups. Organisers said the march began near Potsdamer Platz and went through the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie and was expected to end outside the Russian embassy. The march demands the immediate withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine, the trial of Vladimir Putin as a war criminal, and the release of all political prisoners in Russia, the protesters said in a statement. Advertisement Mr Yashin, in a statement before the protest, said demonstrators were using the freedom we have here in Berlin to show the world: A peaceful, free and civilised Russia exists. Ms Navalnaya, Mr Yashin and Mr Kara-Murza have all billed Sundays rally as a show of unity at a time when recent rounds of acrimony have hit the anti-war camp. The demonstration took place in Berlin, Germany. Photo: Markus Schreiber/AP. Russias exiled anti-war opposition has so far largely failed to speak with one voice and present a clear plan of action. The landmark East-West prisoner swap in August freed key dissidents and promised to reinvigorate a movement set adrift by the death in prison of Mr Navalny, a charismatic anti-corruption campaigner and arch-Kremlin foe. Advertisement Instead, tensions have spiked in recent months, as Mr Navalnys allies and other prominent dissidents swapped accusations that appeared to dash any hopes of a united anti-Kremlin front. Many opposition-minded Russians have voiced deep frustration with the infighting, and with what some view as efforts by rival groups to discredit and take influence from one another. Power and gas giant Origin Energys boss has warned Australia is under-prepared as it drifts closer toward a decade of extraordinary upheaval for the electricity grid when all remaining coal-fired generators are expected to close. While coal has been Australias main electricity source for decades, its years of powering the grid are numbered, as utilities face spiralling costs to maintain ageing power stations and intense competition from cleaner and cheaper renewables. Origin CEO Frank Calabria is leading the industrys push for a comprehensive redesign of Australias energy market rules. Credit: Louie Douvis At least half of eastern Australias coal-fired plants are due to shut down within 10 years, while the market operator expects coal to leave the grid entirely by 2040. Efforts to clean up Australias polluting electricity sector depend heavily on replacing fossil fuels with more wind, solar and hydropower projects. But balancing a system increasingly dominated by less-predictable renewables is much more challenging, says Frank Calabria, who is running Australias biggest power and gas retailer, adding the need for long-term vision and policy certainty. Liberal Bridget Archer and teal independent Monique Ryan hailing from opposite ends of the Otway Basin, and of differing political persuasions will this week team up in federal parliament to try to force a vote on the future of seismic testing. More than 2000 seismic surveys have been conducted in Australian waters since the 1960s, as companies map the seabed to prospect for new oil and gas reserves. Mapping companies then sell the information to oil and gas companies. Lisa Deppeler, pictured with fellow campaigner Mitch Pope, describes seismic testing as Australias secret. Credit: Jason South Seismic testing is the use of high-powered underwater air guns towed behind a ship that release sound blasts at regular intervals as high as 250 decibels to record echoes of geological formations below the seabed. In September, multinational oil and gas exploration companies TGS and SLB-Schlumberger withdrew a seismic surveying bid that initially proposed to survey more than 7 million hectares of ocean off Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. A small group of pro-Palestine protesters targeted the opening of the Myer Christmas windows in Melbourne on Sunday morning, pouring scorn on Premier Jacinta Allan for calling them morons days earlier. About 10 activists wearing Palestine flags, keffiyehs and Santa hats stood outside the Bourke Street department store, blew bubbles and chanted: While youre shopping, bombs are dropping, All Zionists are terrorists and Myer, Myer, you hate Christmas, you make money off of Jesus. They also held signs saying this moron supports Palestine and morons for Palestine. Pro-Palestine protesters outside the launch of the Myer Christmas windows on Sunday. Credit: Chris Hopkins There was a heavy police presence outside the store, but the protest which attracted a few counter-protesters yelling, Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, oi, oi, oi! was peaceful. Hundreds of families flocked to Myers annual Christmas windows on Sunday morning. Rio de Janeiro: Australia is pushing for G20 leaders to confront the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East during a global summit in the next two days, warning about the loss of innocent lives and damage to the world from the growing conflicts. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will push for the tougher stance on the two wars in his remarks to the summit in Brazil on Monday as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer says Ukraine should be top of the agenda at the talks. Anthony Albanese arrives in Rio for the G20. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen The moves come as Albanese prepares for a formal meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday to shore up economic ties and manage differences over the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine pact with the United States and United Kingdom. The bilateral meeting with Xi will be the prime ministers third with the Chinese leader, including their talks in Beijing last year when China eased some of its restrictions on Australian goods. Lima: Australian business leaders have warned of a severe cost to households from a global retreat on free trade after US President-elect Donald Trump vowed to impose massive tariffs on China and other countries when he takes power. The warning was echoed by global executives at an Asia-Pacific summit that has been dominated by concerns about a radical shift in economic policy under the next Trump administration, reversing decades of work to remove trade barriers and cut the cost of household goods. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese greets US President Joe Biden at the APEC summit in Peru. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Mark Birrell said the moves to impose tariffs, whether from the United States or China, would restrict economic growth and cost jobs. Its not surprising that Donald Trump wants to respond to the Chinese government on trade, but arbitrary tariff barriers and trade restrictions will be costly for everyone, he said. Caroline Wilburn is a breaking news reporter for the Houston Chronicle. A graduate of Texas A&M University, Caroline worked as an election stringer for the Associated Press and as a breaking news fellow at the Texas Tribune. At the Tribune, she got a crash course in interpreting data, distilling complicated policy and following statewide trends on a tight deadline. Shes also a skilled video editor and podcast producer. She won a first-place award for audio news production at the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association. The news A much-hyped partial start to Brisbane City Councils $1.4 billion Metro bus project has come to a quiet end just one month after it began. And City Halls transport chair Ryan Murphy has now flagged a further delay for the projects full rollout, now not expected until early 2025. The first of the Brisbane Metro buses started on the existing 169 route last month. Its unclear when theyll be back. Credit: Matt Dennien In an update to the Translink and council websites on Friday, the double-length electric vehicles use of the 169 route was said to be stopping. Rome: Romans are furious about an insulting deal to allow tourists to dress up as gladiators and stage mock fights in the Colosseum. Critics say the deal between Airbnb and the Colosseum will trivialise the arena, transforming it into a theme park and offending the dignity of the most important monument of ancient Rome. Critics say the deal between Airbnb and the Colosseum will trivialise the arena and transform it into a theme park. Credit: New York Times The announcement coincides with the release of Gladiator II, directed by Ridley Scott and starring Denzel Washington and Paul Mescal. Under the deal, Airbnb has agreed to donate $US1.5 million ($2.3 million) to the Archaeological Park of the Colosseum to upgrade a permanent exhibition inside the amphitheatre. In return, 16 Airbnb customers will be able to don sandals and helmets and take part in faux gladiator fights in the ancient arena. Washington: The appointment of Fox News commentator Pete Hegseth as Donald Trumps defence secretary is under further scrutiny after it emerged he paid a woman who accused him of sexual assault as part of a settlement agreement with a confidentiality clause. Confirming the payment on Sunday (AEDT), Hegseths lawyer insisted the encounter with the woman was consensual and that the military veteran turned TV pundit was completely innocent. Pete Hegseths lawyer says the Fox News commentator paid the woman and that he is completely innocent. Credit: Getty The sexual assault allegation has emerged in recent days, but The New York Times reported that Trumps transition team has only recently learnt about the payment made by Hegseth. Hegseths appointment was already under scrutiny after it emerged he was flagged as a possible insider threat by a fellow service member who received images of his tattoos, researched their meaning and determined they had sufficient connection to extremist groups to elevate the email to his commanding officers. ABC13 anchor Chauncy Glover, poses for photos in his downtown Houston apartment complex on Thursday, Aug. 2, 2018 in Houston. His Chauncy Glover Project provides mentorships and scholarships for black teens. His yearlong program culminates with a red-carpet gala and theatrical performance by the boys at Hobby Center on Friday, June 22, 2018 Elizabeth Conley/Staff photographer Two prominent ABC 13 anchors were among those who spoke at Chauncy Glover's funeral Saturday at Lindsay Lane Baptist Church in Athens, Alabama. Glover, who worked in Houston for eight years, died earlier this month at 39. An Alabama native and three-time Emmy Award winner, Glover worked in Houston at ABC 13 from 2015 until 2023 before moving on to a job as an anchor in Los Angeles. He also previously worked in Detroit, Jacksonville, Fla., and Columbus, Ga., after graduating from Troy University. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Glover founded the Chauncy Glover Project, a mentoring program and non-profit organization focused on working with young Black and Latino men. "He wasn't just a nephew, a cousin, a son or a brother. He was that light that brought us together. Chauncy had a way of making everyone feel special, seen and valued. He was the kind of person who would go out of his way to lift others up even when he had challenges of his own," said Mary Glover Davis, Chauncy's aunt. Krystle N. Johnson told the crowd that Glover lived a full life. "When I think about where his life started, here in Athens, Alabama, and where we are today in Athens, Alabama, I can't help but to daydream about the dash in between, she said. Some of us have weak dashes, where the ink may kind of run out just a little bit. But when I look at that black and blue ink of the dash that Chauncy left, it ain't going nowhere. Johnson specifically gave a shoutout to Houston and the people Glover met in the city. A celebration of life will be held in Houston next Saturday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "I want to recognize the city of Houston," Johnson said. "He met so many amazing people. I want to acknowledge you guys today because you guys played such a major role in his life." ABC 13 anchor Mayra Moreno recounted how the former co-anchors were "two peas in a pod." She said it was a bittersweet moment when he left for Los Angeles. She was happy that he landed a dream job but sad they wouldn't be teaming up anymore. "Since I heard about his passing, his laughter, his smile and his bright, joyful spirit have been on my mind constantly," Moreno said. "Those memories, the way he could light up a room with a single joke or just a kind word, are all the things that I'm going to hold close to my heart." Advertisement Article continues below this ad A REMEMBRANCE: Chauncy Glover was the hero friend I needed Melanie Lawson, another anchor at ABC 13, said Chauncy was born to enrich the lives of others. "What inspired him to start the Chauncy Glover Project was seeing a young teenager who had tried to rob a store and gotten shot, and Chauncey said he watched him take his last breath on the sidewalk," Lawson said. "Now the sad thing about being in the news business is we all have to cover stories like that. Robberies and murders, terrible things, often in our own neighborhood. I've known all those people out there reporters who do that, but I've never known anyone else who turned that into way to help others grow up into strong men on the right side of the law." Jerry Ledoux III, who was mentored by Glover as part of the organization, spoke about the impact Glover made. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Without Glover's mentorship, Ledoux said he would not be the person he is today. Eva Osborne Porsche has said its customers in Ireland will be contacted in relation to an ongoing recall in Britain. Some owners are being told not to drive their luxury cars "until further notice" over concerns the wheels could fall off. Around a thousand drivers in the UK have been sent warning letters or emails, and Porsche has now said that it will also be contacting Irish customers. As part of ongoing quality analyses, Porsche said it was found that the wheel fastening using centre lock wheels on the Porsche 718 (982), 911 (992) and Panamera (G3) models does not meet the specifications. The vehicles were built between September 1st, 2023 and October 23rd this year. Porsche said the safety of customers, passengers, and third parties is its top priority and in order to ensure this, the affected vehicles should no longer be driven until the remedial measure has been implemented. To ensure the safe operation of the central screw connection, the car manufacturer said the central screw connections must be inspected and replaced if necessary. The availability of the required parts is currently being clarified, it said, and not all the cars manufactured between the two dates will be affected. CDC to receive samples for additional viral characterization. The California Department of Public Health confirmed, through laboratory testing, the first known case of clade I mpox in the United States. This case is related to an ongoing outbreak of clade I mpox in Central and Eastern Africa. The risk of clade I mpox to the public remains low, and there continue to be sporadic clade II mpox cases in the United States. The case was diagnosed in a person who recently traveled from Eastern Africa. The individual was treated shortly after returning to the United States at a local medical facility and released. Since then, the person has isolated at home, is not on treatment specific for mpox, and symptoms are improving. Based on their travel history and symptoms, patient specimens were tested and confirmed for the presence of clade I monkeypox virus. Specimens are being sent to CDC for additional viral characterization. Additionally, CDC is working with the state to identify and follow up with potential contacts. Casual contact, like you might have during travel, is unlikely to pose significant risks for transmission of mpox. While investigations continue into this case, CDC guidance has not changed. Protect yourself from mpox by: Avoiding close contact with people who are sick with symptoms of mpox, including those with skin or genital lesions Avoiding contact with contaminated materials used by people who are sick (such as clothing, bedding, toothbrushes, sex toys, or materials used in healthcare settings) And if you're eligible, get both recommended doses of mpox vaccine. There are two types of mpox, clade I (with subclades Ia and Ib) and clade II (with subclades IIa and IIb; IIb caused the ongoing global outbreak). You can't tell which type of mpox someone has by looking at them. Outbreaks from the different subclades can have different characteristics, like who they affect, how they're spread, or how many deaths they cause. Although clade II mpox has been circulating in the United States since 2022, clade I mpox has never been reported in the United States before now. Travel-associated cases of subclade Ib have been reported in Germany, India, Kenya, Sweden, Thailand, Zimbabwe, and the United Kingdom. Historically, clade I mpox has caused more severe illness and deaths than clade II mpox; however, recent data demonstrate that infections from clade I mpox in the current outbreak may not be as clinically severe as in previous outbreaks. While outbreaks of clade I mpox used to have death rates around 3%-11%, more recent outbreaks have had death rates as low as approximately 1% when patients received good medical oversight and supportive clinical care. Death rates are expected to be much lower in countries with stronger healthcare systems and treatment options, including the United States. Current data supports that subclade Ib has a lower death rate of < 1% both in and outside of Africa. The recent travel-associated clade I mpox cases outside of Africa have all been attributed to subclade Ib; there have been no deaths associated with these cases and available data for a subset has detailed relatively mild disease courses. People with mpox often get a rash that may be located on hands, feet, chest, face, mouth and/or near the genitals, including penis, testicles, labia, vagina, and anus. The incubation period is 317 days. During this time, a person does not have symptoms and may feel fine. The anticipated overall risk of clade I mpox to the general population in the United States from the outbreak in Central and Eastern Africa is low. Earlier this year CDC conducted a risk assessment which included epidemiologic data from Central and Eastern Africa, data from the ongoing mpox outbreak in the United States caused by clade IIb, and historical data on clade I mpox outbreaks in DRC and other affected countries. In addition, CDC has simulated clade I mpox outbreaks. These simulations indicate that close-contact transmissions within and between households are unlikely to result in a large number of mpox clade I cases in the United States. Additionally, in Sweden, Thailand, Germany, and India there was no apparent onward spread of the virus and the onward spread in the United Kingdom has been limited to close, household contacts so far. CDC continues to work in Central and Eastern Africa to help stop mpox transmission at the source. This ongoing work includes laboratory training, supplies for diagnostic testing (including genetic sequencing), training of frontline health and epidemiologic workers, support for surveillance in people and animals, support for infection prevention and control, risk communication and community engagement, and direct technical assistance in outbreaks, as well as research collaborations. CDC has more than two years of experience responding to mpox in the United States due to the ongoing 2022 global clade II mpox outbreak and has adjusted existing domestic public health systems and structures to respond to any outbreak of clade I mpox in the United States. CDC issued guidance for travelers to countries in Central and Eastern Africa experiencing outbreaks earlier this year. CDC continues to recommend that clinicians request expedited clade specific testing for suspect clade I mpox cases with travel history to Central and Eastern Africa. CDC is also helping communities monitor the presence of both clades of mpox virus in wastewater samples. Data from samples can provide an early warning of mpox activity and spread in communities. CDC combines wastewater data with other data to decide if there is a need for further testing or other actions in collaboration with state and local public health partners. More information on mpox is available online at Mpox | Mpox | CDC. A dog up for adoption in the kennels at Harris County Pets Resource Center on Friday, Feb. 24, 2023 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Harris County Pets has made several policy changes that have sparked outrage from pet lovers who believe they will result in more animals being euthanized. The amount of time an animal can stay at the shelter before being placed on the euthanasia list has been reduced to 15 from 30 days, and animals will now be euthanized three days a week as opposed to two. The changes, which went into effect Monday, have quickly become the subject of criticism on social media. Advertisement Article continues below this ad We got news on Friday that the shelter is going backwards, said Laura Brown in a TikTok uploaded by Rescue Dog Army. Sweeping the streets of strays is not going to solve your problem. You need to hold your citizens accountable for over breeding and not spaying and neutering. That will solve the problem. Harris County Pets declined the Houston Chronicles request for an interview, but provided a statement explaining the policy update. Harris County Pets is committed to saving all adoptable homeless animals that come to our shelter, giving them the best chance for a loving, forever home, the statement read. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, it is not always possible to save every animal. The shelters updated euthanasia policy prioritizes compassion and transparency. Shelter capacity at breaking point The number of dogs housed at Harris County Pets has been above maximum capacity for at least two years, according to publicly available data. That trend has only worsened in recent months and reached a peak in October of 491 dogs almost double the 250 the shelter is equipped to handle. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Its a staggering statistic, and one that likely paints a grim picture of the quality of life for animals housed at Harris County Pets, said Daphna Nachminovitch, senior vice president of cruelty investigations at People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. What this means is that animals who don't know each other are crowded into enclosures together, Nachminovitch said. It means that they compete for resources, whether food, water or just a square foot to sit in. It generally promotes disease, and it certainly is inhumane to those animals. Animals housed in these conditions for long periods of time often suffer from severe behavioral issues that can make them unsuitable for adoption, Nachminovitch said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad As a no-kill shelter, Harris County Pets strives to maintain a live release rate of 90% meaning no more than 10% of the animals it houses can be euthanized on an annual basis. But the shelter exceeded that limit once in May and again in September, and continues to hover right at the edge of the 10% limit. But Nachminovitch said the focus on statistics has contributed to what she described as a looming nationwide animal welfare crisis. When you subject animals to these sorts of inhumane warehousing conditions, you are essentially condemning them to becoming unadoptable, Nachminovitch said. The no kill movement has created a widespread panic over statistics, completely disregarding that we're not dealing with statistics and numbers. We're dealing with individual animals. Over the past decade, Harris County Pets has steadily increased its live release rate from just 18% to above 95%. But during that same time frame, the number of animals accepted into shelter care each year has dwindled from a high of more than 20,000 in 2013 to just over 7,000 in 2023 a 70% total decrease, according to Harris County data. Advertisement Article continues below this ad While a reduction in intakes could indicate fewer strays roaming the streets of Harris County, officials said thats not the case. Stray population a crisis In an interview with the Chronicle, Harris County Commissioner Tom Ramsey said county leaders are actively looking for a solution to what they described as an impending animal welfare crisis. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Harris County has over a million stray dogs, based on what we understand, Ramsey said. So we're looking for a solution. The problem has only grown worse in recent years, Ramsey said. The countys growing population and climate have contributed to an environment conducive to the proliferation of stray animals, he said. His claims are backed up by the results of a September Community Health Assessment published by the Office of Planning and Innovation. The assessment, which surveyed residents on community safety and neighborhood needs, found that respondents listed Animals that are not taken care of and roam around freely, as the fifth-most serious community safety problems. Harris County Pets currently functions as a part of Harris County Public Health, a department tasked with overseeing everything from vaccinations to mental health and clinical services. That means veterinary concerns often end up playing second fiddle to more pressing public health problems, Ramsey said. Harris County Public Health has so many responsibilities, so many areas that's pulling on their time and their focus, Ramsey said. We're coming out of COVID and dealing with the many other issues within the health department, I think it would make a lot more sense to separate that out. An October report conducted by the Office of County Administration-Research and Analysis Division explored the potential for establishing a standalone animal veterinary division. It compared the function and structure of animal control departments across eight jurisdictions, and found little correlation between how a department is structured and its effectiveness. The effectiveness of a veterinary public health and/or animal control entity is not based on its organizational structure and/or location, the report read. But rather, it is due to other factors, including whether an organization has the resources and staff to fulfill their mission. According to the report, the biggest issues impacting animal control departments are budgetary shortfalls, shortage of veterinary staff and shelter overcapacity. These problems reflect are part of a growing national trend, Nachminovitch said. Emergency services have been reduced because it's hard for these clinics to find staff, and so animal shelters are getting more calls than ever, she said. Meanwhile, veterinary clinics are being bought up by massive corporations, and that means that cost of service is skyrocketing. An alternative to no-kill The October report cautioned officials from relying too heavily on euthansia rates as an indicator of shelter performance. Instead, it recommended county leaders explore a philosophy called Socially Conscious Animal Sheltering. The key distinction between the two philosophies, according to the report, is that Socially Conscious Animal Sheltering does not rule out making appropriate and humane euthanasia decisions for suffering animals. It also emphasizes transparency and public safety as core tenants of the philosophy. SHELTERS CALL FOR AID: No-kill animal rescue Lifeline of Galveston County pleads with the public for donations While the two approaches are similar, Socially Conscious Animal Sheltering is ultimately designed to address animal welfare beyond simple live release statistics. Thats important, Nachminovitch said, because no-kill shelters often focus exclusively on getting animals out of the shelter, and not what happens to them afterward. Weve seen shelters release animals to owners who went on to use them for dog-fighting or breeding, she said. Weve also seen shelters that are so laser-focused on getting dogs out the door that theyve actually resorted to drugging aggressive animals to make them more adoptable. A June 2023 article published in the Capital Gazette found that a shelter in Maryland was systematically drugging aggressive dogs with Trazodone a powerful antidepressant and adopting them out to unsuspecting families. A shelter employee interviewed in the article said the pressure to meet adoption numbers motivated the practice. Beyond encouraging bad practices in a bid to make numbers, Nachminovitch said no-kill shelters give the public the false impression that, if they dont want an animal, they can simply return it to the shelter and leave with a clear conscience. Its a practice that ultimately launders the responsibility of pet ownership from the individual to the shelter. It should be an easy statement that politicians who are elected by the people should represent the peoples interests, and not lie to those who put them in office. But in our modern political era, it is increasingly common for politicians to simply repeat their campaign slogans and expect their voters to believe them. And 95percent of the time, voters fall for this trap. Take the recent Presidential election. Kamala Harris frequently struggled in interviews because she had said so many conflicting statements about her policies and positions to the point that voters did not know what she really believed.She stated in 2020 that she was in favor of banning fracking, then suddenly reversed course this year. This occurred with her stance on both mandatory gun buy-backs and posting bail of 2020 rioters in Minnesota - suddenly she was against mandatory gun buy-backs, and she had never said anything about bailing out rioters (her tweet on bailing out the rioters is still up today. A nd its certainly not a one-party problem. On Wednesday, the Senate election for majority leader took place, and the Republicans chose Senator John Thune of South Dakota. Many voters and Trump allies expressed anger and annoyance at this, referring to Thune as a RINO and claiming that Senator Rick Scott (R-Florida) was a much better choice. Since the ballot was secret, we dont know exactly how everyone voted. We do know that Scott received 13 votes, but 14 Senators declared support for him, meaning someone was not telling the truth. It wasnt that hard to find the odd one out. Senator Katie Britt (R-Alabama) didnt express her support of Scott until after the vote, claiming she had cast her first ballot for him. Every other senator had endorsed Scott before the vote, unlike Britt. Britt is also on record supporting Scott in 2022, and yet she was mysteriously appointed on Mitch McConnells leadership team after he was re-elected leader (the vote was secret and she refused to state who she voted for). My point in this isnt to slam Britt - shes a fairly conservative politician who has done very good work as a freshman senator, but it doesnt change the fact that she shouldnt be lying to her constituents in Alabama. It makes the Republican Party no better than the Democratic Party that they just defeated in the elections, and its incredibly disrespectful to the voters who took the time to deliver one of the greatest victories Republicans could have asked for. Britt, along with the rest of her colleagues who voted against the peoples choice (approximately 66 percent of Xs users preferred Rick Scott) need to realize that when they do this, they are putting a target on their backs for a primary challenge in 2026 and 2028. An example thats close to home for our area was the recent Tennessee House District 27 race. The incumbent was a Republican who ran on conservative, pro-life, pro-gun, anti-illegal immigration platforms, but her actual voting record showed that she abstained to vote on multiple pro-life bills, voted against pro-gun bills she claimed to support, and helped vote for incentives for illegal immigrants in Tennessee. She ran for re-election this year and lost to her primary challenger, Michele Reneau, who went on to win the general election because she actually pledged to follow through on her platforms. If Reneau doesnt follow through on her promises, she can be primaried in 2026 and someone else can take her place. Thats the importance of a primary that both sides dont seem to understand. If a politician follows through on their promises, they should get re-elected. If they dont, they shouldnt get re-elected. We need to have this topic on our mind more as we go into the 2025-2027 legislative year. Keep a close eye on your representatives and senators voting records. If they vote against your values, call or email their office and let them know how you feel. If they continue to do so, dont vote for them again. Simple as that. James Cowart Signal Mountain Emergency personnel carried out the rescue of an injured female hiker at Rainbow Lake Falls, Signal Mountain, on Saturday afternoon. A hiker on the Rainbow Lake trails heard someone screaming down the trailhead. At 4:17 p.m., the hiker called 911 reporting someone was screaming and may be in distress on a trailhead at Rainbow Lake Falls. The Signal Mountain Fire Department responded to Rainbow Lake trails at 304 Ohio Ave.The hiker was able to locate a female on the trailhead and told the 911 dispatcher she was a half mile down the trail and may have an ankle injury. The hiker gave the GPS coordinates to the 911 dispatcher who reported the location information to Signal Mountain firefighters. Fire and HCEMS personnel hiked down the trails to the female hiker to assess her injuries and secured her to a Stokes basket to carry her out of the trailhead. Signal Mountain Fire Chief Larry Sloan reported, This will be a lengthy rescue due to the rough and steep terrain. Waldens Ridge Emergency Service was requested to respond to the scene with their 6x6 ATV to help with the extrication. At 7:02 p.m., first responders were out of the woods and handing the injured hiker over to Hamilton County EMS for transport to the hospital. Home News New York church sued for gender bias picks male pastor again, continuing 200-year tradition Kevin R. Johnson, founding pastor of Dare to Imagine Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has been recommended to take the helm of the historic Abyssinian Baptist Church in New York City, ensuring that the churchs long line of male pastors remains unbroken after the church was sued earlier this year by a woman who sought to become the congregations first female pastor. The Pulpit Search Committee is confident in Rev. Johnsons ability to lead and uphold the history and legacy of our institution of faith, an internal church memo dated April 13 and cited by The Associated Press said. We look forward to presenting the final candidate to you and will announce the date of the congregation vote in the coming days. Church spokesperson LaToya Evans also confirmed the decision with the AP. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe The churchs top job opened up on Oct. 28, 2022, when its longtime pastor, Calvin O. Butts III, died from pancreatic cancer after leading the church for three decades. The Rev. Eboni Marshall Turman, a Yale Divinity School professor who made history when she became the youngest pastor ordained at Abyssinian in 2007, had hoped to make history again as the churchs first female pastor after Butts death. When she wasnt named as a finalist for the position by the churchs search committee, Turman filed a federal lawsuit accusing the church and its search committee of gender discrimination, the AP reported. Turman, who researches gender politics in black churches and related issues, accused the search committee chair, Valerie S. Grant, of asking her inappropriate questions that weren't raised with male candidates for the job. Gender discrimination motivated the decision not to hire (Marshall Turman), a fact discussed openly during meetings of the Committee, including by Grant and another Committee member, who said that Abyssinian would only hire a woman as its Senior Pastor over my dead body, the complaint says. When she was told that Johnson had been chosen for the job, Turman noted that the congregation still had to approve the search committees recommendation of Johnson. The blessing of Baptist polity is that we ascribe to the distinctive of the priesthood of all believers, Turman told the AP. With the help of God, the power to call a pastor ultimately rests with the congregation. The church still has to vote. According to the bio on his churchs website, Johnson and his wife, Kimya, who's a corporate attorney and serves as vice president of the churchs board of directors, founded Dare to Imagine Church, Inc. in November 2014 in their living room with just 20 people. The congregation has since grown to 1,500. He has been married for 26 years and shares three children with his wife. Home News Rev. Calvin O. Butts III, longtime pastor at Abyssinian Baptist Church in New York City, dies at 73 The Rev. Calvin O. Butts III, a prominent African American pastor at the historic Abyssinian Baptist Church of New York City, who was known for his social activism, has died from cancer. He was 73. Abyssinian Baptist Church announced Butts' passing on its Facebook page Friday, explaining that the longtime pastor died peacefully earlier this morning. It is with profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved pastor, Reverend Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III, who peacefully transitioned in the early morning of October 28, 2022, the church stated. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe The Butts Family and entire Abyssinian Baptist Church membership solicit your prayers for us in our bereavement. Cornel West, a noted African American scholar and left-wing political activist, took to Twitter on Friday to offer his condolences, describing Butts as my deep friend of over 40 years. I am deeply saddened by the loss of my very dear brother the great Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts lll, West tweeted. My love and respect for him are forever! God bless his precious wife Patricia and his family! Former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo released a statement in response to the news, calling Butts a man of God, an academic committed to shepherding the next generation of New York leaders, a humanitarian devoted to improving the lives of his fellow man, and also a friend. I will always value his counsel and his friendship to me, as well as my father, over the last 40 years and greatly mourn his passing, Cuomo added. My thoughts are with Mrs. Butts, his family, his congregation, and the many New Yorkers mourning him during this difficult time. Born in 1949 in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and the son of a butcher and a welfare department supervisor, Butts graduated from the historic Morehouse College of Atlanta in 1972 and later graduated from Union Theological Seminary in Manhattan and Drew University of Madison, New Jersey. Butts held various ministerial positions at Abyssinian Baptist before becoming their church's pastor in 1989, serving in the position until his death. He became known for pushing for social improvements in New York City. This included his work in the 1980s when he founded the Abyssinian Development Corp. to "rebuild Harlem, brick by brick, block by block," NBC News affiliate WNBC reported Friday. In the early 1990s, the pastor made headlines for drawing attention to what he saw as the harms of rap music, particularly how women were depicted in the lyrics. "In 1993, he famously had a steamroller crush hundreds of rap CDs outside the church," WNBC added. The famous Harlem pastor also served as president of the State University of New York College of Old Westbury on Long Island from 1999-2020, having seen the school expand and gain accreditation under his watch. Other positions he held included president of the Council of Churches of the City of New York, chairman of the Harlem YMCA, the president of Africare NYC and being a member of the National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS. He received several awards for his work, including the United Negro College Funds Shirley Chisholm Community Service Award, the Medal for Distinguished Service from Teachers College of Columbia University, and Man of the Year, courtesy of the Morehouse College Alumni Association. In 2007, the prominent religious website Beliefnet named him among the "most influential black spiritual leaders" in the United States at the time. His political activism and associations sometimes garnered controversy, such as in the 1980s when several members of the New York Philharmonic boycotted a concert at his church because he refused to distance himself from anti-Semitic Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan. For his part, Butts said he had disagreements with Farrakhan on his views of Judaism, but he also found common ground with Farrakhan on social and economic issues. All Im saying to the Jewish community is, dont dictate to me, Butts said at the time, as quoted by the New York Times. I understand your anger. Im not a fool. I dont hate Jewish people. In fact, I quite respect what the Jewish people have done. But please dont make me a boy and tell me what to do. In early 2020, during the Democratic presidential primary season, Butts garnered controversy for throwing his public support to then-candidate and former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg. At the time, Butts had been one of about 20 black pastors who had met with Bloomberg, with the former mayor apologizing for his past support of the controversial stop-and-frisk policy. We accept your apology at one level, but we want to let you know that well be looking for more concrete expressions of your apology in terms of the African American community, Butts explained after the meeting. Butts is survived by his wife, Patricia Reed Butts, three children, and six grandchildren. Home News 100K Bibles distributed to prisoners nationwide during COVID-19 pandemic: 'God-inspired' Prison Fellow, Tyndale Publishers partner together for ministry milestone The nations leading prison ministry has given over 100,000 Bibles in the past nine months to incarcerated men and women across the country amid heightened demand for Gods word during the COVID-19 pandemic. James Ackerman, CEO of Prison Fellowship, the leading Christian ministry serving prisoners and their families, told The Christian Post in an interview that the scale of the Bible distribution is nothing short of God-inspired and miraculous. He explained how the hopelessness of the pandemic created a high demand for Bibles among many prisoners. Ackerman assured that Prison Fellowship has never seen this level of demand for the Gospel inside prisons in its 45-year history. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe During a time when prisons had shut down, and incarcerated men and women had to go without visitations or programming, theres this sense of hopelessness in prisons, he said. God put on peoples hearts and encouraged chaplains to promote the Word of God. And [the fact] that hope of the Gospel found itself in such high demand is so encouraging to me. Ackerman, who became president of the ministry founded by the late Chuck Colson in 2016, believes that God created greater demand for His word and provided the resources we needed to meet that demand. Prison Fellowship partnered with Tyndale House Publishers in 2018 to provide the New Living Translation ofThe Life Recovery Bible to prisoners at no cost. The Life Recovery Bible was co-branded with Inside Journal, Prison Fellowship's quarterly newspaper published for the incarcerated. The Bible has special devotional content based on the 12-step recovery model. It helps men and women overcome addictions and strongholds while pointing to God himself as the primary source of recovery with essential tools and features that help free people from the grip of addiction. Prison Fellowship, founded in 1976, has always distributed Bibles. But the ministry teamed up with Tyndale House to provide large-print Bibles with content to guide people dealing with addiction recovery, which is prevalent among prisoners. Having a Bible that speaks to addiction recovery and needs was also a priority for us, Ackerman said. The Life Recovery Bible by Tyndale was the perfect fit for what we were exploring. Around 65% of inmates in the U.S. meet the medical criteria for substance use and addiction, yet only 11% receive the treatment they need, according to the behavioral healthcare system Vertava Health. [The Life Recovery Bible] brings the opportunity to step into new beginnings with Jesus. And because its a recovery Bible, its also speaking directly to the journey and narrative thats consistent with so many of the lives of these men and women, Ackerman said. [The aim is for] people who have struggled with addiction and that addiction [led] to other unproductive activities in their life to realize that they can be healed of that addiction, that Jesus wants to heal them of that addiction and to allow them to start a life of new beginnings. A Prison Fellowship survey of prison chaplains showed that most prisoners do not have easy access to their own Bible or have a Bible in a difficult-to-read translation or small font. We rejoice with Prison Fellowship in reaching this milestone of distributing 100,000 copies of The Life Recovery Bible in just nine months, Tyndale House Ministries CEO Scott Mathews said in a statement. We value their partnership and are grateful for their efforts in getting Gods Word into the hands of prisoners who need the freeing power of the Scriptures, he continued. Tyndale shares this mission of making the Bible accessible for everyone. Prison Fellowship has distributed over 162,000 Bibles to men and women in prison since partnering with Tyndale in 2018. Over 3 million copies of The Life Recovery Bible, Tyndales bestselling recovery Bible, have been printed. It is available in English and Spanish. Ackerman said many correctional facilities worried prisoners would become agitated and violent with lockdowns and canceled programs due to the pandemic. The Bibles, however, have provided the exact opposite effect, the Prison Fellowship president said. The feedback weve gotten is that these Bibles are helping to keep people calm and to keep people focused on either strengthening their faith for those who are already believers but also encouraging others who have never considered the Christian faith before to really sit down and crack open that Bible and read it, Ackerman said. It is creating an environment of calmness in the prison that the Department of Corrections feared might not be there. God provided us all we needed to meet the demand to supply those 100,000 Bibles, he added. That, to me, it just shows you when the Lord is in something, He not only opens the door to create the demand, but He provides the resources needed to fulfill the expectation. Prison employees have commended the difference in their facilities since the prisoners received these Bibles. Mac Mullings, program and services coordinator at Oklahoma County Detention Center, called the Bibles lifesavers. Every time I go to the floors, I make sure I bring one of these Bibles, and I say, I dont know if youre interested in this, but here it is if you want it. And eight times out of 10, they want it, Mullings said in a statement. The importance of [providing these Bibles] cannot be overstated, Mullings added. Its like a second chance. When you supply one of these Bibles, youre changing somebodys life. Prison chaplains can order the Bibles, devotionals and ministry materials for prisoners through Prison Fellowships online store for prison chaplains called The Storehouse. Of the 100,000 Bibles ordered in the past nine months, 70,000 of them were ordered through The Storehouse. Home News Long overdue: Christian prison ministry celebrates passage of EQUAL Act A Christian prison ministry has commended the United States House of Representatives for passing a bill that seeks to eliminate a disparity regarding drug possession penalties. Known as the Eliminating a Quantifiably Unjust Application of the Law (EQUAL) Act, or H.R. 1693, the bill passed the House on Tuesday by a bipartisan vote of 361 to 66. If enacted, the EQUAL Act would lower the criminal penalties for federal crack cocaine offenses to the same level as penalties for powder cocaine offenses, ending a major disparity in the law. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe Prison Fellowship, a national Christian ministry, has expressed their support for the passage of the bill, having lobbied for the proposed legislation for the past several months. Heather Rice-Minus, senior vice president of advocacy and church mobilization at Prison Fellowship, told The Christian Post in an interview on Thursday that she believed the House passing the bill was long overdue. We are prioritizing the EQUAL Act as a federal piece of legislation we want to see passed because we believe that the disparity in how we punish crack versus powdered cocaine is disproportional for all Americans, explained Rice-Minus. In addition to that, we know that historically it has had a really devastating effect on black communities in particular. So we want to see that changed and remedied and we believe that now the time in fact is long overdue. In January, Prison Fellowship joined FAMM (which formerly went by the spelled out name Families Against Mandatory Minimums) to launch a social media campaign on behalf of H.R. 1693 with #endthedisparity on Twitter. They, along with us, have been lobbying members of Congress, our staff has been going out, Rice-Minus told CP. Weve been doing lots of outreach to educate members of Congress and their staff about why this is so important and weve been getting constituents involved to share why they care about this for their own community. Rice-Minus was optimistic about the fate of the legislation in the Senate, telling CP that she viewed this vote we just had in the House as a mandate that really does send a message to the Senate. I think whether as a standalone bill or as part of a criminal justice package, one way or another, were going to get this across the finish line and I think that members realize, as was evident in the House, that this is long overdue, she added. As part of their continued efforts to advance the EQUAL Act, Prison Fellowship plans to hold a congressional briefing on Friday, focused on the Senate side. Home News Federal prisons blocking faith groups from helping offenders overcome criminal past: senators Two senators are demanding answers from the Federal Bureau of Prisons about why it rejected several offers from faith-based organizations looking to help convicted offenders avoid relapsing into criminal behavior. Sens. James Lankford, R-Okla., and Gary Peters, D-Mich., requested documents detailing the BOP's process for selecting applicants and other information in a Tuesday letter to the agency's director, Colette Peters. At issue is the agency's implementation of the First Step Act, signed into law in 2018 by former President Donald Trump. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe The act, which seeks to reduce recidivism rates, called for the development of policies for prisons to partner with "nonprofit and other private organizations, including faith-based, art, and community-based organizations that will deliver recidivism reduction programming on a paid or volunteer basis." A 2022 First Step Act annual report shows that BOP received 11 external applications to provide "Evidence Based Recidivism Reduction" and "Productive Activities," according to the letter. The agency approved four, one as an EBRR and the others as PA, and only one approved program was faith-based. A 2023 First Step Act annual report does not provide the number of external applications received and approved by BOP, according to the letter. Through communications with BOP, however, the bipartisan pair of senators noted that the agency has received eight faith-based applications since the First Step Act became law. "Of the eight external faith-based applications, five were denied, two were approved, while another remains pending review," the letter stated. "To the best of our knowledge, the two that have been approved are PAs, meaning there are currently zero external faith-based EBRRs operating within BOP." "These numbers are concerning, particularly at a time when individuals across the BOP system are on waitlists to participate in EBRR programming." The politicians did not name the faith-based groups who submitted applications that the bureau denied. According to the letter, the BOP has until Dec. 13 to provide all of the requested information. In addition to requesting all documents related to the selection process for EBRRs and PAs, the lawmakers asked for complete data on all applicants selected or rejected since the First Step Act passed. The senators also requested documentation of BOP's policies regarding the law and the results of a 2023 independent program review. The Christian Post reached out to the Bureau of Prisons. The agency said that it responds directly to members of Congress and their staff. "Out of respect and deference to Members, we do not share our Congressional correspondence with the media," BOP replied. Family Research Council President Tony Perkins, a former commissioner on the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom who once served in the Louisiana House of Representatives, called the report "concerning" and thanked Lankford and Peters for raising awareness about the situation. "During my time in office, I helped expand the prison access of faith-based groups and recidivism rates dropped significantly," Perkins said in a statement provided to CP. "Life change built on the foundational knowledge of God's love and forgiveness can have lasting effects." In a Thursday X post, Perkins highlighted a report from the nonprofit organization Open the Books about the Department of Health and Human Services' budget, stating that the agency employs 294 diversity, equity and inclusion staffers at an annual cost of $38.7 million. Another $29.4 million goes toward the payroll of seven Offices of Minority Health within several HHS agencies. "Biden's HHS Dept. will spend $67M on payroll for DEI but rejects the help of faith-based groups in federal prisons despite evidence showing faith-based programs reduce recidivism & save taxpayers money," Perkins tweeted. Women wearing the traditional Muslim head covering or hijab, take the opportunity for a quick selfie during the opening celebration of the Latino Islamic Center Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024 in West Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Visitors wear Islam In Spanish T-shirts during the opening celebration of the Latino Islamic Center Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024 in West Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Houston Police Department Assistant Chief Yasar Bashir, seated left center, and Commander Mario Clinton, seated right center, sit with Muslim elders and community leaders as Salima Fletcher, standing front left, makes a statement with her mother, Sakinah Guitierrez, and sisters Jalilah and Anisah during the opening celebration of the Latino Islamic Center Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024 in West Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Houston Police Department Assistant Chief Yasar Bashir, seated right center, and Commander Mario Clinton, seated inside right, sit with Muslim elders and community leaders as Jalilah Fletcher, standing rear left, and Anisah Parada, standing center rear, read from the Quran during the opening celebration of the Latino Islamic Center Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024 in West Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Under the shadow of the Alief water tower off Westpark Tollway, an old warehouse transformed into a center for faith education for the area's fast-growing Latino Muslim population. The location under the tower is significant, said Jaime Mujahid Fletcher, who led an Alief gang before joining forces with his father 23 years ago to create a faith organization that has translated the entire Quran into a Spanish audio book. In the early 90s, these streets were like war, he said. As teenagers, we didnt know anything about Islam. Alief was the murder capital. Becoming Muslim helped us fix our lives, and now we get to open the center right underneath the water tower. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Fletcher spoke on Saturday afternoon to a crowd of about 100 Muslims who gathered under a canopy lined with flags from different Latin-American countries for the ribbon-cutting of the new $4 million IslaminSpanish Centro Islamico. The building will serve as a community hub for a tight-knit, expanding group of Latino Muslims in Alief to engage with Islamic education in Spanish and media production. The only place in the U.S we can open a Spanish mosque is in Southwest Alief, Texas, said District F Council Member Tiffany Thomas. For so long, no one wanted to be like us in the Westside but when I look at this audience, I see the city of Houston. Possibly the first of its kind in the country and located in one of Houston's most diverse neighborhoods, the 10,200 square-foot facility includes a 3,600 square-foot production studio and the countrys only 15-foot interactive digital museum designed to tell the story of Islams impact on Latino culture, tracing history from 610 AD to today. The inside, designed by IslaminSpanish co-founder Sandy "Sakinah" Gutierrez and Fletchers wife, is an intentional production, with symbolic arches drawn from the styles of the Great Mosque of Cordoba in Spain. To Vincente Notario, who immigrated to Spring from Mexico with his wife, Claudia, a few months prior, the centers focus on providing Islamic material in Spanish represents "the start of a new movement." There are no options like this, Notario said. He and his wife converted to Islam just this year, and the choice to do so wasnt easy. But the religions values meshed with the Latino culture he was raised in, and the choice felt like freedom, Notario said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Islam is a religion you choose rather than being brought up in. Every time theres a new convert in a family, its going to be hard, but you feel relief when you see the people here with the same beliefs from different countries. An older-root in the community, 57 year-old Lucy Lopez said she remembers when she converted to Islam seven years ago, her loved ones thought Muslims were terrorists. But her steadfast commitment, both to her faith and to the Latino Muslim community, broke down their perceptions. My friends and family were scared, but after the change they saw in me, they loved it. They respect me, she said. To Lopez, the new center is a testament to how much the communitys grown over the past decade, both in size and resources. While Lopez said she understands the fear the Latino Muslims face right now, with anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim rhetoric in many politicians remarks, she feels her community aims to focus on their good fortune. We try to avoid the politics. This is a positive. Its a big opportunity for people to know Islam isnt just for Arabs. Its open to the entire world, Lopez said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Changing stereotypes about the Muslim community has been a long-running effort of Fletchers that started just three months after he converted to Islam and fresh off the attacks of Sept. 11. But becoming a liaison for a relatively fresh intersection of cultures wasnt a role he necessarily chose at first; its one he stepped into out of the Houston Muslim communitys necessity for a Spanish speaker to talk to Spanish media in the early 2000s. The Muslim community didnt have a way to communicate what we are to the world, Fletcher said. Back when I started, the media wasnt very friendly. Those first interviews were difficult. Thomas, the council member, rallied a standing ovation for a teary-eyed Fletcher, who has become a leader, if not also a symbol, for a community that wasnt always this large and wasnt always equipped with faith materials in Spanish. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Home News Jack Graham challenges Christians to be on our knees following Trump win, calls for grace and humility Jack Graham, senior pastor of Prestonwood Baptist Church, has challenged Christians who supported former President Donald Trump to be on our knees after he was reelected for a second, non-consecutive term to serve as the 47th president of the United States. The posture for Christians should be on our knees, the posture should be prayer, and we should pray for unity in the country, the 74-year-old Plano, Texas-based pastor and former Southern Baptist Convention president told The Christian Post. We know the country is deeply divided and half the country is disappointed in the result of the election, and yet now is our opportunity, he continued. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe If you supported the election of President Trump, as I do, it is our opportunity to now, with the president and our government, to govern well and to respond with grace. Graham, who leads an estimated 50,000-member congregation, stressed that this isnt a time to spike the ball, adding that hes observed the shift in culture toward overt celebrations of political victories gestures he said do little to heal the divides. Now, everybody dances in the end zone, spikes the ball, jumps up and down, struts, flips the bat, he said. In my era, we tried to win with a little more grace and humility. Christians, who are called to be both witnesses and ambassadors of their faith, should respond to this political moment with a similar measure of grace and restraint, the pastor said. He stressed the need for spiritual revival and awakening his foremost hope for a divided nation. Christians need to show a great deal of humility and integrity, and in praying for our leaders and living the Christian life, he said. We need to pray for spiritual revival; we need to do what we've always been called to do, which is to proclaim the Gospel, to witness to our neighbors and the nations. We can make a difference by living out our faith and praying for spiritual revival and spiritual awakening in our country. That, in the end, is what I'm most interested in. Graham has been vocal about his support for Trump and Sen. J.D. Vance, R-Ohio, who defeated the Democratic ticket of Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz on Nov. 5. Ahead of the election, Graham was among Christian leaders who prayed over Trump at the National Faith Advisory Board summit in Georgia, along with televangelist Paula White. "We love you, Jesus, and we also love our country. And we thank you that you have raised up a man, Donald J. Trump, to be a warrior for the word of God and the wisdom that comes from God," Graham prayed. "Thank you for protecting him, for keeping your hand of blessing upon him, and we pray as you raise him up once again to be our president that you would give him strength, wisdom and joy in the journey." Ahead of the election, he also expressed his disapproval of fellow Christian leaders who advised against voting in the election. He wrote: If you are a pastor or Christian leader advising people not to vote in this most consequential election, you have lost all credibility not only in the church but before a watching world, referencing Matthew 5:14-16. The pastor previously told CP that in his many decades of church leadership, hes seen the Body of Christ deal with hot-button issues, such as the question of marriage, like never before. The Bible is clear on male and female; He created them. So, we're not going to be flying rainbow flags in the church that's reaching families for Christ, because it is an opposition to the Bible. We have to deal with it. We have to give people a reason to believe and a reason to know, but people don't know their Bibles, he said. That's why I keep getting back to the Bible. People just don't know what the Bible says. So we go by our feelings, or we go by culture, we go by what our friends are saying, or even maybe what our parents said. We're just trying to get people to open their Bibles and to help explain what the Bible says about all these issues. The pastor, who hosts The Bible in a Year with Jack Graham podcast, also told CP that Christians have a duty to support Israel, rooted in both faith and moral conviction. "For Christians, we do have a biblical obligation to love Israel," he said, pointing to the deep-rooted connection between Christianity and Judaism. "God loves Israel," Graham emphasized. "He chose them according to His Word as His own particular people. He established them as a nation, gave them a land, a life and a legacy for generations. As Christians, we are forever grateful for the heritage that we have in the Old Testament and the Jewish people. [] Our Messiah, our Bible, came from the Jewish people [] so we have this tremendous connection with the Jewish people. Graham also clarified the distinction between spiritual and political support of Israel. "The Church, in my understanding of the Bible, does not supplant Israel," he noted, dispelling notions that the Church has replaced Israel in God's plan. "God still has a plan and a purpose for Israel, he said. Thats where we start. If we love someone, we stand with them and support them. It doesnt mean we support, as Christians, everything political Israel, the government, may do. But [we support] the people and their right to exist. What you have now is this movement of genocide and antisemitism that's rising, not only in the Middle East but in Europe and America. And so, we must stand against that hatred at our church. Home News Nicaragua expels lead bishop in further targeting of Catholic Church Nicaragua has expelled Bishop Carlos Herrera, the head of the countrys Episcopal conference, in what appears to be a further step in its campaign against the Catholic Church, according to a report, which says the 75-year-old bishop was forced into exile in Guatemala. The expulsion was sudden and has left the local Catholic community in shock, Reuters quoted Martha Molina, a lawyer with close ties to the Catholic Church in Nicaragua, as saying. She described Herrera as having been the target of persecution by the dictatorship and cited continuous harassment by leading security and administrative officials. Molina added that Herreras recent criticism of the government, specifically pointing out disturbances during his religious services by individuals linked to local authorities, prompted his expulsion. Herreras masses in Jinotega were reportedly disrupted by loudspeakers set up outside by individuals tied to the mayors office. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe Costa Rican Bishop Manuel Eugenio Salazar was quoted as saying, May the Immaculate Conception crush the old serpents head! The Nicaraguan government has not issued any statement regarding Herreras expulsion. The government of President Daniel Ortega has increasingly targeted the Catholic Church since 2018, following a series of anti-government protests during which numerous church leaders, including Herrera, acted as intermediaries between the government and protestors. Herrera was known for negotiating the release of several young people arrested during the 2018 demonstrations in Jinotega, a role that likely positioned him unfavorably with the administration. Ortegas government has accused the Catholic Church of supporting opposition movements and has intensified its crackdown on religious institutions, civil society organizations and independent media over the past five years. Many other clergymen have been expelled from Nicaragua, and Catholic-affiliated media outlets have been shut down. Bishop Rolando Alvarez of Matagalpa, who has been a prominent critic of the government, was exiled to Rome earlier this year. The government has gone as far as to seize a prominent Jesuit-run university in Managua. In August, the Nicaraguan governments crackdown expanded to include Protestant churches, marking a significant broadening of its policy of religious suppression. Scores of Protestant churches and the Nicaraguan Evangelical Alliance were among 169 civil society organizations that were stripped of their legal status. The move followed the revocation of the legal registration for about 1,500 nonprofit organizations, including numerous religious entities, as part of the governments crackdown on civil society. A total of 5,552 organizations have had their legal status revoked since 2018, according to the U.K.-based group Christian Solidarity Worldwide. Historic denominations such as the Episcopal Church of Nicaragua, founded in 1612, and the Moravian Church of Nicaragua, which dates back to 1847, were affected by these revocations. Both churches have long played crucial roles in providing education and community services, particularly in indigenous and Afro-descendent communities in the South Caribbean Autonomous Region. The First Baptist Church of Managua, established in 1917 and renowned for its community contributions, also had its legal status canceled. The churchs services include operating schools, a seminary, a hospital, and a radio station, which now face uncertainty. The governments decree further targeted smaller and lesser-known congregations like the Shalom First Presbyterian Church of Nicaragua and the Gospel Eternal Message of the Three Angels Adventist Church, among others, revoking their permits to operate legally within the country. Properties linked to these organizations, including church buildings and land, are being transferred to state control, continuing a pattern seen in previous seizures benefiting government entities like the Nicaraguan Army and the Nicaraguan Social Security Institute. A report from the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, published in June, suggested increased surveillance and threats during church services. President Ortega secured a controversial fifth term in 2021. Since then, his administration, led by the far-Left Sandinista National Liberation Front, has jailed political opponents, journalists and civil society activists, citing national security concerns. Home News Virginia jails God Pod violates Constitution, gives preferential treatment to Christianity: judge A judge has ruled that a Christianity-centered prison ministry at a Virginia jail violated the constitutional rights of Muslim inmates by giving Christians preferential treatment. Riverside Regional Jail was sued by a group of Muslim inmates over a program called the Life Learning Program, which was overseen by the Good News Jail and Prison Ministry. The LLP was commonly known as the God pod, since inmates enrolled in the program, which involved a Bible study, were able to live in a separate pod at the jail from other inmates. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe U.S. District Judge Anthony Trenga released a decision last week concluding that the LLP demonstrated a preference for Christianity over other religions and extended benefits to those who subscribed to that preference. Moreover, these teachings were sponsored by the jail, and the jail provided tangible benefits to inmates who participated they received their own pod, where they had access to a microwave that other non-program pods did not have, and they, at least initially, were able to single-bunk, wrote Trenga. Based on the undisputed facts, as a matter of law, Christianity was preferred at Riverside Regional Jail while the LLP was in effect in violation of Plaintiffs constitutional rights under the First and Fourteenth Amendments and the Virginia constitution. While ruling against the LLP, Trenga denied a motion for summary judgment on the claim that the overall relationship between Riverside Regional and Good News was unconstitutional. Lena Masri, national litigation director with the Council on American-Islamic Relations, which helped to represent the plaintiffs, celebrated the ruling in a statement released Tuesday. We welcome the Virginia federal court's ruling and hope that it will serve as a reminder to correctional facilities nationwide that are operating God Pods of their own that it is a clear violation of the Establishment Clause to officially endorse Christianity over all other religious faiths, stated Masri. In 2018, CAIR filed a lawsuit against the jail over the program, as well as claims of not delivering timely meals during Ramadan, on behalf of four current and former inmates of the facility. By 2019, the jail had discontinued the program; however, the litigation continued into September of last year, when Trenga heard oral arguments on the case. Deborah Kane, a lawyer representing the chaplain who oversaw the program, argued at the time that having the Bible as its main text did not necessarily make the program unlawful. Just because its biblically-based doesnt mean it leads to this entanglement of religion, Kane argued in court, The Associated Press reported last year. Home Opinion What she learned about the orphanage was disturbing My church supported eight different orphanages when I began as a pastor five years ago. Orphaned and vulnerable children were the very center of our mission as a church community. We were serious about following Gods call to care for vulnerable and frequently sent out short-term mission teams worldwide, including eventually one young woman as a full-time missionary. What she learned working in one of the orphanages broke our hearts and permanently changed how we care for children in our mission work. At first, she began to notice evidence of financial corruption. But eventually, a doctor went to test and treat each child even the toddlers for sexually transmitted diseases. Every single one tested positive. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe We were devastated. We knew that something had to change, fast and that we needed to be a part of the solution. So we began our journey towards strengthening vulnerable families and supporting family-based models of care for children like foster care, kinship care, and adoption. After learning about the abuse, our church connected with an organization already working locally to reunite and strengthen families. They assisted in the transitioning of the children from the orphanage back into their homes. But the situation had shaken us. Since we still partnered with other orphanages around the world, we knew we needed to learn and do more. I started reading. Current research paints a clear picture of how best to care for vulnerable children, and why family-based care is so effective at producing more resilient families and children. I was surprised, though and many are by what I learned about the reasons children end up in orphanages at all. Poverty is the primary reason children are separated from their families worldwide. In fact, the data shows that 4 out of 5 children in orphanages around the world have a living parent. The documented short-term and long-term benefits to children who grow up in a safe and loving home like a sense of belonging, as well as better-supported physical and emotional development contrast sharply and tragically with the negative effects of institutionalized care. It became clear to me that God was calling our church towards the best-known plan for vulnerable children: ensuring they grow up and are supported in safe and loving families. Family-strengthening organizations like the ones were blessed to call partners today work tirelessly to keep families together and bring previously separated families back together. By providing education, medical access, vocational and financial training and other services, the family care model empowers parents and the community and makes for safer, happier children for many generations. Its a proactive, rather than a reactive, way to do mission work one we want to be a part of for years to come. But were just one church. Im just one man, trying to make what difference I can. The work is much bigger than me, much bigger than our church and all of its many friends. What would the lives of vulnerable children worldwide look like if the global church prioritized strengthening families to care well for their children over a superficially better life in an orphanage for a hundred kids? As churches, imagine what could happen if we invested deeply on a community level. We could know that our mission work and its effects would be durable, sustainable and transformative for the children who lived there in a way no institutional care ever could be. And we could know that our reach into each community would be even greater. Of course, as a church in Kansas, we dont know how to transition children out of an orphanage in a country halfway across the world. We dont have the expertise or community-based knowledge to do this unique work. But we do know that with the right support and resources help that we as Christians can provide each community, whether it be in Haiti, India, or Kenya, will be empowered to do whats best for the families and children who live there. So Christians, let's consider the Fathers heart for vulnerable children. Psalm 68 is a powerful reminder of just how central Gods heart for the orphan is: God sets the lonely in families. The church can and should step forward into the challenging but good and indispensable work of prioritizing family-centered care. His plan for children is family. Together, we can help make His plans their reality. The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby. (Photo: Lambeth Conference) Justin Welby's son has spoken about his father's resignation last week under a cloud of consternation after he failed to ensure that sadistic abuser John Smyth had been reported to police. The Archbishop of Canterbury resigned on Tuesday after days of intense pressure following the publication of the Makin Review into decades of "abhorrent" abuse by the late Smyth, a QC who used to organise evangelical camps for boys. The review found that Smyth had abused at least 115 boys and young men across the UK, South Africa and Zimbabwe, and that Welby was aware of it from at least 2013 but failed to act. In a scathing assessment of the wider Church's response, the Makin review said there had been a "cover-up". Welby later denied a cover-up but admitted to "incompetence", and in his resignation statement said that he "must take personal and institutional responsibility for the long and retraumatising period between 2013 and 2024". Speaking about his father's decision to step down, his son Tim Welby told the Mirror that he had done the right thing and that his position had become "untenable" because "so many people were calling for his resignation". He said his father was "really, really cross that it didn't occur to him to triple check" that someone had reported the abuse to police. "The frustrating thing is I don't think it ever occurred to him that it hadn't been reported to the police," he said. "When, as Archbishop, you are told that something has happened it has usually gone through so many hands. It seemed utterly inconceivable that someone wouldn't have said to the police: 'This has been going on.'" Despite his failings, Tim Welby said he was "proud" of his father and loved him very much. He said his dad would spend his remaining time in office meeting victims and trying to put measures in place to ensure mistakes are not repeated. "He's definitely very embarrassed and appalled by what's happened. I know he's going to spend a lot of his time left in office, having conversations with some of the people and trying to make sure that things are set up in the right way," he said. Email Toate Articolele Va rugam sa activati javascript in browser-ul dvs. pentru a putea trimite acest formular Elon Musk speaks before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally at Madison Square Garden, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024, in New York. Evan Vucci/AP Elon Musks $119 million bet on Donald Trump paid off and Texass newest Republican mega-donor made clear he has no plans to bow out of GOP politics any time soon. The Tesla and SpaceX chief said Tuesday on his social media platform, X, that he plans to deploy the political action committee he initially funded to boost Trump against progressive district attorneys and judicial candidates across the country. READ MORE: 5 key takeaways from Election Day in Texas Advertisement Article continues below this ad Hes already dabbled in those local races this cycle in Texas where Republicans flipped a slew of usually low-profile appeals court seats but apparently plans to supercharge the effort nationally in the coming years. America PAC is going to keep going after this election, Musk said during a virtual town hall he held Tuesday night while he traveled to Florida to watch the results with Trump after casting his vote in South Texas. We just have to have DAs that, you know, protect the citizens of their cities, Musk said. We have, in so many of our cities, DAs that dont prosecute crime, and the people of those cities suffer. It is just one way that the Texas billionaire is set to further establish himself as a major figure in American politics and as a potentially influential figure in the White House, where Trump has said Musk will have a role finding ways to slash government spending and regulations. RELATED: Harris County Republican judges have best electoral showing in a decade Advertisement Article continues below this ad A star is born, Trump said of Musk during his victory speech, underscoring the billionaires emerging political import. He's a special guy. He's a super genius. While Musk focused the vast majority of his money and time boosting Trump this cycle, he also began to dip his toe into judicial races in Texas. Musk poured at least $3 million of his own money into state-based groups focused on the courts here, including $2 million to the Judicial Fairness PAC, a group working to elect Republican judges. That group, in turn, bankrolled the Stop Houston Murders PAC, a political action committee tied to families of slain Houstonians that spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on radio and television advertisements urging voters to back Republicans in Houston. Earlier this year, the billionaire also secretly funneled hundreds of thousands of dollars into an effort to unseat progressive Travis County District Attorney Jose Garza during the March primary, the Wall Street Journal reported. Garza survived that and was easily reelected on Tuesday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Musk cast his next chapter as a much broader effort to counter the damage that (George) Soros has done to the American system, referring to the liberal billionaire who has spent big backing progressive prosecutors nationally. Musk did not mention any Texas races specifically, instead indicating he would target DAs in Los Angeles, Philadelphia and New York, where Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg recently secured a guilty verdict against Trump on felony charges. America PAC is going to aim to weigh in heavily on the midterms and intermediate elections, as well as just doing common sense stuff like having DAs who prosecute repeat violent criminals, Musk said. The focus on prosecutors comes as Musk has been increasingly vocal about the courts from a business standpoint, as well. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Musk this year gave $1 million to Texas for Lawsuit Reform PAC, the political arm of a powerful pro-business group known for lobbying against what it sees as frivolous lawsuits. Musk reincorporated his companies in Texas as the state launched a new court system designed exclusively for businesses. While Musk has not said explicitly the courts designed to handle complex, high-dollar commercial disputes were a reason for the move, he has been vocal about his frustration with Delawares courts, which blocked a more than $50 billion pay package for the Tesla CEO in January. If your company is still incorporated in Delaware, I recommend moving to another state as soon as possible, Musk wrote on X, the social media site he owns, in February. U.S. President Joe Biden meets with China's President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in Lima, Peru, on Nov. 16, 2024. China's leader Xi Jinping met for the last time with U.S. President Joe Biden on Saturday but was already looking ahead to President-elect Donald Trump and his "America first" policies, saying Beijing "is ready to work with a new U.S. administration." During their talks on the sidelines of the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, Xi cautioned that a stable China-U.S. relationship was critical not only to the two nations, but also the "future and destiny of humanity." "Make the wise choice," he cautioned. "Keep exploring the right way for two major countries to get along well with each other." Without mentioning Trump's name, Xi appeared to signal his concern that the incoming president's protectionist rhetoric on the campaign trail could send the U.S.-China relationship into another valley. "China is ready to work with a new U.S. administration to maintain communication, expand cooperation and manage differences so as to strive for a steady transition of the China-U.S. relationship for the benefit of the two peoples," Xi said through an interpreter. Xi, who is firmly entrenched atop China's political hierarchy, spoke forcefully in his brief remarks before reporters. Biden, who is winding down more than 50 years of public service, talked in broader brushstrokes about where the relationship between the two countries has gone. He reflected not just on the past four years but on the decades the two have known each other. "We haven't always agreed, but our conversations have always been candid and always been frank. We've never kidded one another," Biden said. "These conversations prevent miscalculations, and they ensure the competition between our two countries will not veer into conflict." Biden was expected to urge Xi to dissuade North Korea from further deepening its support for Russia's war on Ukraine. The leaders, with top aides surrounding them, gathered around a long rectangle of tables in an expansive conference room at Lima's Defines Hotel and Conference Center. China "hosted" the meeting this year, after Xi and Biden met a year ago on the APEC sidelines in Northern California, a gathering hosted by the U.S. They had much to discuss, including China's indirect support for Russia, human rights issues, technology and Taiwan, the self-ruled democracy that Beijing claims as its own. There's much uncertainty about what lies ahead in the U.S.-China relationship under Trump, who campaigned promising to levy 60% tariffs on Chinese imports. Already, many American companies, including Nike and eyewear retailer Warby Parker , have been diversifying their sourcing away from China. Shoe brand Steve Madden said it plans to cut imports from China by as much as 45% next year. In a congratulatory message to Trump after his victory over Vice President Kamala Harris, Xi called for the U.S. and China to manage their differences and get along in a new era. In front of the cameras Saturday, Xi spoke to Biden but it was unmistakable that his message was directed at Trump. "In a major flourishing sci-tech revolution, neither decoupling nor supply chain disruption is a solution," Xi said. "Only mutual, beneficial cooperation can lead to common development. 'Small yard, high fence' is not what a major country should pursue." After he was greeted by Xi, Biden ignored shouted questions from reporters on his concerns about the incoming Trump administration as well as North Korea. The leaders also did not engage reporters after they made their brief comments at the start of the meeting. Biden administration officials would advise the Trump team that managing the intense competition with Beijing will likely be the most significant foreign policy challenge they will face, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said. Biden has viewed his relationship with Xi as among the most consequential on the international stage and put much effort into cultivating it. The two first got to know each other on travels across the U.S. and China when both were vice presidents, interactions that both have said left a lasting impression. "For over a decade, you and I have spent many hours together, both here and in China and in between," Biden said. "We've spent a long time dealing with these issues." But the last four years have presented a steady stream of difficult moments. The FBI this week offered new details of a federal investigation into Chinese government efforts to hack into U.S. telecommunications networks. The initial findings have revealed a "broad and significant" cyberespionage campaign aimed at stealing information from Americans who work in government and politics. U.S. intelligence officials also have assessed China has surged sales to Russia of machine tools, microelectronics and other technology that Moscow is using to produce missiles, tanks, aircraft and other weaponry for use in its war against Ukraine. And tensions flared last year after Biden ordered the shooting down of a Chinese spy balloon that traversed the United States. Biden is looking for Xi to step up Chinese engagement to prevent an already dangerous moment with North Korea from further escalating. Biden, South Korean President Yoon Seok Yul and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on Friday condemned North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's decision to send thousands of troops to help Moscow repel Ukrainian forces who have seized territory in Russia's Kursk border region. Biden called it "dangerous and destabilizing cooperation." White House officials have expressed frustration with Beijing, which accounts for the vast majority of North Korea's trade, for not doing more to rein in Pyongyang. The North Koreans also have provided Russia with artillery and other munitions, according to U.S. and South Korean intelligence officials. And the U.S., Japan and South Korea have expressed alarm over Pyongyang's stepped-up cadence of ballistic missile tests. Kim ordered testing exercises in the lead-up to this month's U.S. election and is claiming progress on efforts to build capability to strike the U.S. mainland. Xi and Biden started their day at the leaders' retreat at the APEC summit, taking part in a photo where they all wore scarves made from vicuna wool, a symbolic animal for Peru. It's common practice that leaders at these gatherings are given a gift usually traditional clothing of the host country that they don for the photo. There will be a minimal difference in days for the upcoming release event of the Samsung Galaxy S25 smartphone lineup via the renowned Galaxy Unpacked showcase, compared to the Galaxy S24 announcement. It will bring a similar timeline for the event like the past Galaxy S-series events that started off the year with a bang for Samsung's latest flagship smartphone release. Renowned insiders for the South Korean tech company corroborate new information on the Samsung Galaxy S25, and contrary to earlier release reports, it yet again talks about a later release date. Samsung Galaxy S25 Release Date Coming This Late January 2025 A Korean news publication website, FN News, shared that the upcoming release date for the Galaxy S25 series is happening in late January, particularly on Jan. 23, which is days later than the previous event. This year's Galaxy Unpacked, Samsung's first for the year and dedicated to the flagship smartphone series, commenced on Jan. 17, around the middle of the month. This was corroborated by another renowned insider, Max Jambor, who claimed in his latest post via X that it will arrive on Jan. 22, only a day earlier than the Korean media outlet's date. While having different days claimed on their release speculations, these are consecutive timelines for the Galaxy S25 series that are expected to arrive around the same period of late January 2025. Earlier Release Date For Galaxy S25 Is Not Happening This latest round of rumors for the Galaxy S25 is now trumping the earlier claims of Samsung going ahead with an earlier release date for the next flagship smartphone lineup. Whatever basis these rumors have, all are pointing to a January release date, which has been the tradition for Samsung's flagship smartphones yearly. What to Expect From the Galaxy S25 Earlier this year, rumors about the next-generation flagship smartphone, the Galaxy S25, popped up from renowned leakers and sources to tease more of the upcoming smartphone. One of the top rumors behind the Galaxy S25 lineup claimed that the flagship device will feature another massive camera upgrade the telephoto and ultrawide will have 50MP lenses. Apart from this, chip rumors also talked about the company's upcoming upgrade to the lineup, which will focus on the latest flagship from Qualcomm, the Snapdragon 8 Elite. However, it remains unknown if Samsung will have different variants of its smartphones that equip different chips in other regions, especially in the U.K. and Europe. Its display will reportedly feature the iconic Dynamic AMOLED 2X for the entire lineup which is known for its brightness and iconic colors, but the device will feature the same battery capacity used by the S24 series. The latest information on the Galaxy S25 centers on its release date, with trusted sources claiming a later date for the the Galaxy Unpacked showcase. Evercore ISI already named its favorite technology stocks to own heading into 2025. As a group, information technology is up nearly 32% year to date, one of the top-performing sectors in the S & P 500. Large cap tech stocks in particular have been at the forefront of the equity rally since late 2022, when the artificial intelligence chatbot ChatGPT debuted. More recently, however, the IT sector has come under pressure amid questions as to whether tech companies will continue to see the growth needed to justify their lofty valuations. Against that background, Evercore ISI analysts recently picked five tech stocks they're most sure of entering next year. Here are the investment bank's stock picks, and where the recommendations are forecast to head next. Arista Networks The cloud network equipment company's conservative revenue guidance for 2025 leaves room for upside potential, according to Evercore ISI. "We think ANET is uniquely positioned to deliver revenue acceleration in CY25 and beyond driven by multiple levers," a group of analysts wrote in a Wednesday note. According to their forecasts, Arista Networks' revenue will grow by more than 20% in 2025 and 2026. They cited tailwinds such as customer expansion, growth across its front-end network and Cognitive campus workspaces service . The company's back-end AI offerings are another potential driver of revenue growth, according to the analysts. "We continue to see Arista as the leader in AI ethernet switching and customer adoption should accelerate in CY25," the note continued. Evercore ISI raised its 12-month price target on Arista to $450 from $425, indicating more than 20% upside from Friday's close. The stock has surged 59% year to date. Apple Artificial intelligence will power Apple 's long-term growth story, according to Evercore ISI. Although sales for its new iPhone released in September haven't sparked an upgrade supercycle, the investment bank believes iPhone growth will eventually improve as more AI features are added. "While this may be disappointing for those hoping for a very strong iPhone 16 cycle, we think it is important to note that Apple's AI strategy goes beyond simply selling more iPhones," the analysts said. "Apple will continue to function as a gatekeeper to it's 1.5B+ [user] install base and has the optionality to monetize 3rd party AI efforts. This will enable them to reap the AI rewards without the massive uptick in capex we are seeing at their mega cap peers." In addition to benefits from more AI features, Apple's services and wearables segments are also expected to grow next year. Evercore ISI has an unchanged $250 price target, which implies shares gaining 11.1% from where the stock closed Friday. Apple shares are up 17% in 2024, lagging the 23% gain in the S & P 500. Amphenol The fiber optic connector manufacturer offers both double-digit revenue growth and low volatility, according to Evercore ISI's analysts. Amphenol also produces electronic connectors and cables which it sells across a diverse range of markets, including to defense, tech and broadband companies. Amphenol is also expected to benefit as some of its customers, such as industrial and mobile networks groups, recover. The Wallingford, Connecticut-based company also has a strong track record in acquisitions and a solid balance sheet ensuring it can continue deal-making which Evercore ISI estimates could add from 15 cents to 20 cents to its earnings per share on an annual basis. The stock closed at $70.52 on Friday. "We think APH is well-positioned to benefit from AI ramps by providing highly complex/efficient connectors for AI servers and networking," the Evercore analysts wrote. "Additionally, APH's deep exposure over a range of technology and strong partnerships allow[s] them to be flexible in reacting and capturing short and long-term AI opportunities," the note said. Evercore ISI increased its price target on the $90-billion stock by $5 to $80 per share, or more than 13% above Friday's close. International Business Machines IBM is likely to top revenue estimates in 2025, Evercore ISI said. Growth in IBM's software segment, which reached double digits in the third quarter, will likely continue thanks to high demand for AI and data solutions. IBM currently has $3 billion worth of AI business booked, which could also boost demand for its software offerings, Evercore ISI said. IBM may also gain from President-elect Donald Trump's second term push to lift regulations. "A more favorable regulatory backdrop for M & A could accelerate deal activity," Evercore ISI wrote. "IBM notably could be positioned for larger transactions given their balance sheet" and free cash flow generation. Vertiv Holdings Vertiv Holdings is a long-term beneficiary of the AI boom, Evercore ISI said. The Waterville, Ohio company's 27,000 employees provide digital infrastructure technologies to data centers. Shares have more than doubled in 2024, soaring 152% in 2024 amid the boom in data centers that's driven demand for Vertiv's liquid cooling technologies. "We think the company is well-positioned to not just capture secular tailwind AI infrastructure tailwinds, but also gain share in an expanding market, and more importantly, do so in an increasingly more profitable manner," the Evercore note said. The analysts believe Vertiv's profit margins before interest and taxes could reach the mid 20% level as it optimizes scale and business processes. The bank lifted its price target to $150 from $135, implying Vertiv shares might rally 24% over the next year compared to where they closed on Friday. CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed to this report. U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) speaks to reporters as House Republican leaders hold a press conference at the U.S. Capitol House in Washington, U.S., November 12, 2024. House Speaker Mike Johnson said Sunday that House Ethics Committee's probe into Matt Gaetz, President-elect Donald Trump's pick for U.S. attorney general, is a "Pandora's box" and said the report from it should not be released. "My understanding is that the report is not finished. It's in a rough draft form. Was not yet ready to be released, and since Matt Gaetz left the Congress, I don't think it's appropriate to do so," the Louisiana Republican said Sunday on CNN's "State of the Union." The House Ethics Committee was investigating allegations that Gaetz engaged in sexual misconduct, illicit drug use and other wrongdoing. Gaetz abruptly resigned from Congress just two days before the panel was set to vote on releasing its report, Punchbowl News reported last week. "I think that would be a Pandora's box. I don't think we want the House Ethics Committee using all of its vast resources and powers to go after private citizens, and that's what Matt Gaetz is now," Johnson said. Gaetz's resignation effectively ends the Ethics Committee probe because the panel's reach is limited to members of the House. On Thursday, an attorney for the woman who alleges she had a sexual relationship with Gaetz when she was a minor said the Ethics panel should release the report. Johnson believes the Senate should not rely on the report for the former Florida congressman's confirmation. "The Senate has a role, the advice and consents role under the Constitution, and they'll perform it," Johnson said. "They'll have a rigorous review and vetting process in the Senate, but they don't need to rely upon a report or a draft report, a rough draft report that was prepared by the Ethics committee for its very limited purposes." Johnson and Gaetz didn't immediately respond to CNBC's emails for comments. Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., said Sunday the House Ethics Committe should "absolutely" release the Gaetz report. "The Senate has to advise and consent these individuals, and in that process, we're going to give Matt Gaetz the same chances we'll give all President Trump's nominees," Mullin said on NBC's "Meet the Press." "If he's qualified, he's qualified. I'd be quite frank, I didn't even know he was an attorney until after he was appointed attorney general, and I had to do my research on him." Gaetz had previously been embroiled in a federal investigation into whether he was involved in the sex trafficking of a 17-year-old girl. That probe, which ended last year without charges being filed, was conducted by the Department of Justice the agency Gaetz would lead if he were confirmed as U.S. attorney general. On Friday, a lawyer for a woman told the Ethics committee she saw Gaetz have sex with a minor, NBC News reported. "My client testified to the House Ethics Committee that she witnessed Rep. Gaetz having sex with a minor at a house party in Orlando in 2017," attorney Joel Leppard said. Gaetz has denied all the allegations against him. In September, he declared he would stop cooperating with the House panel, while sharing a letter in which he vehemently denied having "sexual activity with any individual under 18." CNBC's Kevin Breuninger contributed to this story. After last month's excitement over stimulus plans, Chinese stocks now face mounting challenges as earnings have yet to pick up and heightened U.S. trade tensions loom. "Stock picking remains important with [the] headwind of tariffs, a weaker currency and persistent deflation," Morgan Stanley chief China equity strategist Laura Wang and a team said in a report Thursday. For investment options, she referred to the firm's survey of China stocks the investment bank's analysts already cover. The firm screened for stocks that could outperform depending on which of three scenarios unfolded. Only the bear case accounted for significant U.S. tariffs and restrictions. The base and bull cases assumed the status quo in U.S.-China relations. The bear case also expects 1 trillion yuan, or $140 billion, in fiscal stimulus a year and MSCI China earnings per share growth of 3% this year and 5% next year. Morgan Stanley's basket of bear case stocks only includes overweight-rated names with a dividend yield above 4% this year. They also have free cash flow yield above 4% from 2023 to 2025 and market capitalization above $2 billion, among other factors. The companies must not be on Morgan Stanley's lists of stocks at a disadvantage from Republican policy and supply chain diversification. The only consumer name that made the list was Tingyi , a Hong Kong-listed company that owns instant noodles brand Master Kong. The company is also PepsiCo 's exclusive manufacturer and seller in China. Tingyi's net profit in beverages rose nearly 26% in the first half of 2024 compared to a year ago, while that of instant noodles rose 5.4%. Morgan Stanley expects Tingyi's earnings per share to grow 12% this year and 11% in 2025. Other Chinese companies that made Morgan Stanley's bear case basket included two state-owned energy stocks: drilling company China Oilfield Services and Cosco Shipping Energy Transportation , which specializes in shipping oil and natural gas. Both stocks are listed in Hong Kong, as is the only industrials name on the bear case list, Sinotruk . The truck manufacturer is also state owned. Morgan Stanley expects China Oilfield Services can grow earnings per share by 41% this year and 33% next year, while Cosco Shipping Energy Transportation can see its earnings rise 33% this year, before slowing to 16% growth next year. Sinotruk earnings can grow 18% this year and 17% next year, according to Morgan Stanley estimates. MSCI China constituents are on track for their 13th straight quarter of earnings misses, despite recent improvements in economic data, Morgan Stanley's Wang said. "We expect further earnings downward revisions amid lingering deflationary pressure and geopolitical uncertainties until more policy clarity emerges." Asia equity fund managers have modestly increased their exposure to China since September's stimulus announcements, Morningstar strategist Claire Liang said in a phone interview Friday. "But many managers have said whether this rally can continue will depend on whether the policies can see real results," Liang said in Mandarin, which was translated by CNBC. Beyond stabilizing the economy, she said the managers are looking for whether corporate earnings can recover. China's October data release on Friday underscored a slow economic recovery despite the latest barrage of stimulus announcements. Industrial production missed forecasts. Fixed asset investment grew more slowly than forecast as the drop in real estate investment steepened, albeit with new home sales narrowing their decline. Only retail sales beat expectations with 4.8% growth . For China's export-heavy economy, the risk of U.S. tariffs has only risen over the past two weeks as the Republican Party has taken control of the U.S. Congress and President-elect Donald Trump has filled his cabinet with China hawks. Morgan Stanley's U.S. policy team expects Trump to impose tariffs soon after he takes office, and potentially hit Europe and Mexico along with China imports. While China is better positioned than six years ago to stave off the effects of targeted tariffs, the analysts said global duties on U.S. imports would hit China as much as targeted tariffs did in 2018. Host Pete Hegseth during "FOX & Friends" at Fox News Channel Studios on May 27, 2022 in New York City. Former Fox News host Pete Hegseth's attorney on Sunday confirmed to NBC News that Hegseth, whom President-elect Donald Trump has named as his candidate for defense secretary, paid a woman an undisclosed amount after she accused him of sexual assault. "In 2023, Hegseth paid the complainant as part of a civil confidential settlement agreement and maintains his innocence," Timothy Parlatore, Hegseth's attorney, said in a statement. He also denied that the encounter between Hegseth and an unnamed woman, which she alleges happened in 2017, was sexual assault. Parlatore's statement comes after The Washington Post on Saturday reported that a friend of Hegseth's accuser sent a memo to the Trump transition team detailing the allegations. NBC News has not independently reviewed the memo, but Parlatore confirmed that it is related to an encounter Hegseth and the unnamed woman had in Monterey, California, during a conference of the California Federation of Republican Women. The Post reported that the memo said the woman was at the conference with her husband and her children and "didn't remember anything until she was in Hegseth's hotel room and then stumbling to find her hotel room" on the night in question. Parlatore denied the allegation, saying, "This is a situation where a consensual encounter occurred and, unfortunately, the woman had to come up with a lie to explain why the woman had not come back to her husband's room that night." "It wasn't reported until days later until there was pressure from her husband. It was fully investigated by police and video surveillance as well as multiple eyewitness statements show that she was the aggressor," he added. Authorities in Monterey investigated the allegation in 2017 and did not file charges against Hegseth. Parlatore also called his client "completely innocent" and accused the woman of "trying to squeeze Mr. Hegseth for money." Before Hegseth officially becomes defense secretary, he'll have to win over a majority of the Senate in a confirmation vote. On Sunday, Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., told NBC News' "Meet the Press" that "I think he's a good pick." Still, he added that the Senate would have to deliberate and review Hegseth's record ahead of a vote. "But once again, as allegations come out, we'll figure out if, as the Senate moves forward with the advice and consent to the president of the United States and doing our constitutional duties, we'll figure out if he can get confirmed or not. And I do think that Pete's a good pick for this position," Mullin said. Saying so might not make you popular at parties, but punctuation matters. Thats why novelty stores sell bumper stickers about eating grandmas and dictator strippers. Sure, you can probably let it slide in your DMs, but pay attention to it in your official paperwork, or you might end up in a situation like 5 NASAs $150 Million Missing Hyphen In 1962, NASA launched Mariner 1, a probe intended to collect data from Venus, and hit the destruct button less than five minutes later. It turned out a missing overbar, a hyphen-like symbol, in its programming had taken the probe off-course, sending it for a crash landing. It cost NASA $150 million in todays money, inspiring sci-fi author Arthur C. Clarke to award it the title of The Most Expensive Hyphen in History. 4 The Fruit, Plants That Cost the U.S. Government $38 Million In case you havent noticed, most of the U.S. isnt a very hospitable place for growing fruit. The U.S. government took advantage of that fact in the 1800s, imposing stiff tariffs on imported fruit, especially tropical fruit. An exception was supposed to be made for fruit plants, tropical and semi-tropical for the purpose of propagation and cultivation, but the comma was accidentally placed after fruit instead of plants. That meant all fruit was exempt from the tariffs, costing the government $38 million in todays money. Good news for Hawaiian pizza fans, bad news for taxpayers. 3 The Oxford Comma That Struck a Blow for Workers Rights Advertisement In 2017, a group of Maine dairy delivery drivers sued their employer for unpaid overtime, which the dairy company claimed they werent eligible for because their service distribution of perishable foods was exempt under state law. Their lawyers argued, however, that a missing comma between packing for shipment and or distribution meant the law only covered both services as a single act. Since the drivers didnt pack anything, a judge ruled in their favor, and the dairy company proposed a $5 million settlement on the condition that they shut up forever. 2 The Commas That Werent Supposed to Be in Ulysses Advertisement When James Joyces Ulysses was first published in 1922, problems caused by both the author (who turned in a nearly illegible manuscript) and the printers (who didnt speak English) meant the book was riddled with typographical errors. Five thousand of them, to be exact. Hundreds of those errors were in only one passage, where an editor had added commas to what was supposed to be one long, unpunctuated sentence. It took seven years and $300,000 to correct Ulysses in the 1980s, and students everywhere have been cursing it ever since. The adjectives Kafkaesque and Orwellian have been doing some very heavy lifting this week, after the journalist Allison Pearson received an unexpected knock on the door from members of the Essex constabulary in connection with something she has called a non-crime hate incident. Her alleged non-crime? A Tweet she posted more than a year ago then deleted, though the police refused to tell her which one. It has since transpired that it may be in connection with a photo of two men holding a flag of a Pakistani political party standing alongside some policemen. It seems Pearson mistook the men for anti-Israel protesters, and was criticising the police for posing next to them. The previous week, she and a group of Friends Of Israel supporters had been at the Cenotaph. They had invited some police officers to pose for a photo with them, but they declined. So when she saw what she thought was a picture of police laughing and joking alongside anti-Israel protesters, she was incensed by the double standard. However, as soon as her misunderstanding was pointed out, she deleted the post. OK, maybe she got it wrong. Perhaps she should have been more careful. Maybe she should have checked the source or counted to ten before pressing the button. But lets not forget that at the time, tensions were running very high over the October 7 atrocities. Hamas supporters were protesting on the streets, with numerous incidents when the police seemed to be turning a blind eye. People brandished pictures of heroic paragliders, chanting From the River to the Sea; posters of Israeli hostages were being defaced and torn down; Jewish pupils were being targeted outside schools. It was an emotional time, and many including myself felt deeply uncomfortable with the open expression of support for the rape, murder and torture of innocent Israeli citizens. Journalist Allison Pearson had police knock on her door over a Tweet she posted more than a year ago then deleted Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer backed investigations into comments on social media which critics have claimed amounts to 'thought poli Rivkah Brown, of Novara Media, proclaimed on Twitter/X that the actions of Hamas were a celebration for supporters of democracy and human rights worldwide. Dr Mennah Elwan, an NHS neurology registrar, mocked Israeli victims online and accused them of cowardice for fleeing the gunmen. BBC journalist Sally Nabil liked more than a dozen tweets that appeared to legitimise the targeting of Jewish civilians; ITV gave a platform to a woman reporter for Irans state-run TV channel who called the attacks a moment of triumph; Maggie Chapman, the Scottish Greens MSP, said Hamass actions were a consequence of apartheid, of illegal occupation, of imperial aggression by the Israel state. A couple have gone to court after the 35million mansion in Londons Notting Hill they bought turned out to be moth-infested. Rentokil may have recently upped their prices, but still... Advertisement The principle of free speech was being pushed to its very limits. In particular, it was deeply distressing to see the total lack of compassion felt in certain quarters for the victims, many of whose gruesome ordeals had been gleefully recorded by their killers. There had been a video of a 22-year-old woman whose broken, half-naked body was paraded by Hamas on the streets of Gaza in a pick-up truck. The sight of Palestinians jeering and spitting on her lifeless corpse was soul-crushing. Another Israeli woman, the seat of her tracksuit bottoms stained with blood, was dragged into the back of a Jeep by armed militants. Her fate is still unknown. She is the same age as my daughter. The burning sense of rage and injustice I felt as a mother seeing such vicious and misogynistic treatment of an unarmed and defenceless young woman at the hands of sneering, leering men clearly salivating at the prospect of what they were going to do to her knocked me off my feet in its intensity. I couldnt understand how anyone could witness footage like that and not be horrified, let alone take to the streets in defence of it. Perhaps Allison Pearson felt the same. She, too, is a mother. Assuming her non-crime hate Tweet is the one referenced, it was, at worst, a misunderstanding, a momentary lapse of judgment borne out of heightened emotions hardly a justification for what I can only imagine has been a very frightening and distressing ordeal at the hands of the police. Part of the problem for someone such as Pearson and, indeed, for any high-profile commentator is that her success makes her a target for those who dislike her, or what she represents. In her case, an eloquent and successful Right-wing columnist and a fearless advocate for the Jewish community in Britain. It is in the interests of those on the opposing side to bring her down. Indeed, it is perhaps worth noting that the person who filed the complaint against her in the first place is a retired, Guardian-reading civil servant. But that is not the real problem here. Whether in politics or journalism or business, that kind of thing comes with the territory. In fact, the more people try to cancel you, the better you are at your job. What is profoundly worrying is that the institutions that have always been trusted to exercise restraint and common sense in response to such attacks no longer seem to believe in the principle of innocent until proven guilty. Theyre so infiltrated by certain ideologies that their impartiality can no longer be trusted. For someone such as Pearson to find herself on the wrong side of the law is absurd. The idea that the police would waste time investigating something as spurious as a misguided Tweet, when they could be protecting, say, victims of domestic abuse or other real-world crimes, is simply madness. This is a frightening moment for us all. What makes it more sinister is that our Prime Minister seems to think its OK, possibly because it would be in the interests of this socialist Government for critics like Pearson to be silenced. To coin the phrase about witch trials: I saw Goody Pearson dancing with the Devil. And so it begins. Just a few days after an inquest found that an Oxford undergraduate took his own life after being ostracised by his social circle, another student at the university has been found hanged. Along with the child of a friend of a friend, now in a persistent vegetative state after an attempt to take their own life, thats three promising young lives cut short. The sad legacy of a generation whose mental health was destroyed by lockdown. Bon appetit, girls! Rebekah Vardy has signed up as I'm A Celeb columnist at The Sun They say revenge is a dish best eaten cold or, in the case of Rebekah Vardy, a sheeps anus. With her arch-rival Coleen Rooney in the Jungle, Vardy has signed up as The Suns Im A Celeb columnist. These two women really are the feud that keep on feuding. Amanda Abbington has posted online a picture of me alongside my Mail colleagues Katie Hind and Amanda Platell, accusing us of being the lowest of the low, dreadful, scheming, lying, bitchy bullies. Does she imagine us in stripey stockings and pointy hats, crouched over cauldrons, stirring the pot with malicious intent: eye of newt and tongue of frog and all that? Thats about as true as some of her allegations against her Strictly dance partner Giovanni Pernice... The draft list of new emojis for 2025 (yes, this is actually someones job) includes a gorilla and a dolphin. Why not a Remembrance Day poppy? Is my dog Muffin offensive? In its anti-racism drive, the Welsh Government is considering introducing dog-free areas. Is the implication that dogs are racist, or is the act of owning one offensive? Does it matter what breed? My dog Muffin, right, is a Lhasa Apso, originally watchdogs in Buddhist monasteries. Does this mean she offends Chinese people? Am I inadvertently upsetting non-Buddhists on our thrice-daily walks? Cressida Bonas opened up about losing her sister in The Times Cressida Bonas has discussed the tragic loss of her older sister and 'leader of our pack', Pandora Cooper-Key, who died this year aged 51 from cancer. Pandora, the formerly west London-based daughter of Lady Mary-Gaye Curzon and Esmond Cooper Key, battled cancer from the age of 26. In March, her family told Femail that they had already planned her funeral 'thousands of times' after she was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour. Despite Pandora's first diagnosis coming in her mid-twenties, Cressida, 35, has revealed how her half-sister never let her illness come in the way of her optimistic outlook, and despite the pair having a 15-year age gap, they had a friendship as solid as gold. Talking in The Times, Cressida wrote: 'When we were adults...we became two loving friends. I could share my thoughts and she'd listen. We would often ask each other for advice, and she would always be honest, often brutally so.' She wrote how Pandora was a guiding light in her life, explaining how her older sister's carefree attitude and ability to find light in all situations never failed to amaze her, including when she stopped to admire flowers despite running late. However, it is in motherhood that Cressida - who gave birth to her first child in 2022, welcoming baby Wilbur James Wentworth-Stanley with her estate agent husband, Harry Wentworth-Stanley - misses her sister's advice. 'Now that she has gone, I wish I could talk to her about raising sons as I'm also now the mother of a baby boy,' Cressida wrote. Pandora's sons, Bow, 17, and Nestor, 14, are teenagers, so Pandora 'had already walked the path that I'm beginning,' Cressida wrote. However, writing in the emotional piece, Cressida explained how Pandora's courage will never fade, meaning that parts of her sister will last in the 35-year-old forever. Cressida Bonas (pictured right) has opened up about the death of her half-sister Pandora Cooper Key (pictured left) Aged 26, Pandora was diagnosed with Paget's disease, a rare cancer of the milk duct. She lived with Li-Fraumeni syndrome, a rare genetic disorder heightening the risk of cancer. Almost a decade later, Pandora left her role as a handbag designer at Vivienne Westwood to have her first child. Only five weeks after giving birth, Pandora, then-aged 34, was told the devastating news that she had sarcoma in her left eye and sinus area. Sarcomas are malignant tumours; they are so rare that a GP can expect to see only one or two in an entire career. In the UK, approximately 4630 soft tissue sarcomas and 670 bone sarcomas are diagnosed annually. At one point, Pandora was told that, after an operation to remove her tear duct, her condition had worsened, and she had 10 months left to live. However, it was later discovered that her scans had been misinterpreted, and she was in the clear for the time being. In addition to suffering sarcoma of the sinus and recurring episodes of cancer, Pandora also grappled with life-threatening infections and seizures. Until the end of her life, she would still travel to the markets in search of glass for her business, saying it brought relief from her health battle. At the end of last year, Pandora was told that she had a tumour on the left side of her skull that doctors could not operate on. Cressida, who gave birth to her son in 2022, has revealed how she wishes she could seek guidance from her late sister about motherhood (seen together in July, 2016) Despite Cressida and Pandora having a 15-year age gap, it never came in the way of their friendship This resulted in rounds of immunotherapy in the hopes she would recover after first being diagnosed with cancer at age 26 in 2000. Speaking exclusively to Femail earlier this year she said: '[To operate] they'd have to go through blood vessels and that's not great. 'So they categorically said in the first meeting "I'm really sorry, but we can't."' After Pandora's passing, Cressida shared a heartbreaking tribute post to her older sister, saying 'you were right here beside me all along'. In August, the actress and model wrote on Instagram: 'I'll look for you in my dreams where you'll say "Hi Smally", and tell me where you've been. 'Then one day I'll remember you said in one of your final days, "I don't know what all the fuss is about, I ain't going nowhere..." 'And I'll realise, I never had to look for you at all. You were right beside me all along, because my darling sister my heart is forever tied to yours.' Following the announcement of her death, Sarcoma UK, a charity she supported, said on a fundraising page: 'She was a beautiful spirit and an inspiration to so many.' Pandora suffered from Li-Fraumeni Syndrome, a condition that increases the risk of developing cancer Kerry Reeves-Kneip, Director of Communications at Sarcoma UK, added: 'Her openness about her journey helped raise crucial awareness about sarcoma and the challenges faced by patients. 'Pandora's legacy extends far beyond her fundraising efforts; she touched countless lives with her warmth and resilience. 'On behalf of everyone at Sarcoma UK, I extend our deepest condolences to Pandora's family, including her mother, Lady Mary, her sister, Cressida Bonas, her two sons, and all who loved her. 'We are immensely grateful for the difference Pandora made to our organisation and to others affected by sarcoma. We at Sarcoma UK will honour her by continuing our mission with renewed determination. 'Pandora's kindness, courage, and indomitable spirit will forever remain in our hearts.' Concluding The Times article, Cressida wrote: 'Now I think about how she found joy in the smallest things, how she embraced life no matter what it threw at her. And in these moments, I realise that parts of her are still with me. Denmark's Victoria Kjr Theilvig was crowned Miss Universe winner 2024- becoming the first Dane to ever win the competition last night. However fuming fans of the beauty contest took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to insist Miss Thailand Suchata Chuangsri was robbed of the victory at the 73rd Miss Universe final on Saturday evening in Mexico City. The 21-year-old native of Phuket province, who studies international relations at the Faculty of Political Science at Thammasat University, impressed viewers with her answers during the question round. Suchata, who was the third runner-up, was asked what qualities must someone have to be a truly successful leader, she replied: 'Empathy, because no matter how good you are, no matter what kind of education you have, in the end, you need empathy to care about your people.' After Miss Denmark walked away with the crown, viewers rushed to social media claiming 'Miss Thailand was robbed', with one person saying: 'Her answers for both of the questions were on point and has hit its mark!' Another said: 'Miss Thailand was robbed I fully agree with you on that one. omnye loo hayi chaaa bandla pity party didn't work for her this time.' Someone else said: 'Miss Thailand was robbed from the crown smfh.' Another added: 'Miss Thailand was robbed best first answer.' Another person added: 'Miss Nigeria and Miss Thailand were so robbed.' Fuming Miss Universe fans of the beauty contest took to X, formerly known as Twitter , to insist Miss Thailand Suchata Chuangsri (pictured) was robbed of the victory at the 73rd Miss Universe final on Saturday evening in Mexico City Suchata decided to take part in beauty pageants to raise awareness about breast cancer because she underwent an operation to remove a breast tumour 10 centimetres in diameter at the age of 16. The beauty, who can speak Thai, English and Chinese, was born on September 20, 2003. Her family runs a hotel in the southern island province. Suchata was a model before entering her first Miss Rattanakosin pageant in 2021. She was the youngest contestant in Miss Universe Thailand 2022, when she won third runner-up with a special award, Miss Natural Beauty. Miss Nigeria Chidimma Adetshina, who was also a fan favourite, made history as the first Nigerian to secure the first runner-up position at the Miss Universe pageant. The beauty's path to Miss Universe has not been without controversy as she previously entered the Miss South Africa pageant but withdrew following criticism of her nationality and allegations from South Africa's Department of Home Affairs concerning her mother's documents. She was later invited to participate in Miss Universe Nigeria and emerged as the winner ahead of 24 other contestants. During the question round Chidimma was asked 'which is more important, being liked or being respected; and why?' She answered: 'We live in a society where we often don't feel respected because of who we are, and I feel like when you respect yourself, you respect others around you,' the beauty queen expressed. The 21-year-old native of Phuket province, who studies international relations at the Faculty of Political Science at Thammasat University, impressed viewers with her answers during the question round Denmark's Victoria Kjr Theilvig - pictured - made history after being crowned Miss Universe 2024 After Miss Denmark walked away with the crown, viewers rushed to social media claiming 'Miss Thailand was robbed' Denmark's Victoria Kjr Theilvig made history after being crowned Miss Universe 2024. The glamorous competitive dancer and aspiring lawyer put on an extravagant display beating more than 120 other contestants and accepted the tiara from reigning title holder Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua. The 21-year-old stole the spotlight in a floor-length pink shimmery strapless gown that accentuated her curves. The shimmering ensemble featured intricate sequin embellishment all over with beaded off-shoulder detailing. Victoria broke down in tears as he name was announced by American host Mario Lopez and former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo. The pageant began with contestants being narrowed down to a shortlist of 30, before five later faced questions on a range of topics, including leadership and resilience. When asked how she would live differently if nobody would judge her, Victoria said she wouldn't change anything, saying: 'I live by each day.' When asked by the judging panel what she would say to those watching, the Danish beauty urged viewers to 'keep fighting no matter where you come from.' 'I stand here today because I want a change, I want to make history, and that's what I'm doing tonight,' she said. Suchata, who was the third runner-up, was asked what qualities must someone have to be a truly successful leader, she replied: 'Empathy' Suchata, pictured, competed in the national costume competition at the Miss Universe Beauty Pageant Miss Nigeria Chidimma Adetshina, who was also a fan favourite, made history as the first Nigerian to secure the first runner-up position at the Miss Universe pageant Chidimma's path to Miss Universe has not been without controversy as she previously entered the Miss South Africa pageant but withdrew following criticism of her nationality and allegations from South Africa's Department of Home Affairs concerning her mother's documents The glamorous competitive dancer and aspiring lawyer Victoria put on an extravagant display at the 73rd Miss Universe final The 2024 crown, named 'Lumiere De L'Infini', has been described by president and founder of Miss Universe Raul Rocha as 'the most beautiful in the history of Miss Universe' When asked how she would live differently if nobody would judge her, Victoria said she wouldn't change anything, saying: 'I live by each day' Victoria, pictured, stood out to the judges in the preliminary competition at Arena Ciudad de Mexico During the preliminary national costume round, which showcased sparkling outfits that represent what each contestant loves about their homelands, Victoria was a Viking goddess. She said: 'This costume tells the story of those remarkable figures - women who navigated the seas, led their clans, and celebrated the beauty of life through their courage', she said on Instagram. Mexico's Maria Fernanda Beltran finished as the first runner-up, while Nigeria's Cnidimma Adetshina secured the second runner-up position, while contestants from Thailand, Bolivia, Venezuela, Argentina, Puerto Rico, Russia, Chile, Canada and Peru also made it to the top 12. This year the pageant aimed to be more inclusive, and accepted women who are married and mothers for the first time, including Miss Universe UAE Emilia Dobreva. Meanwhile age and body type were also no longer restricted, last year the final 20 included Jane Dipika Garrett the first plus-size contestant to win the Miss Universe Nepal crown. To me, sleep is sacred. Most nights, I'm in bed early and sleep heavily, without interruption. Still, as a health reporter immersed in the world of wellness trends, I've been told there are ways to get even more out of my eight hours by doing one simple thing: taping my mouth shut as I sleep. As a nighttime mouth breather and occasional snorer, I could be putting myself at greater risk for gum disease, dry mouth and cavities, and I've seen countless videos on TikTok telling me the only thing standing between me and my dream face - one without puffiness and with a sharp, supermodel jaw - was my sleep routine. So for the month of October, I slept with an H-shaped piece of cotton-blend medical tape over my mouth, aiming to reduce my mouth breathing at night. Proponents, mainly those in alternative medicine, say mouth taping has countless benefits. Some include: improved sleep, increased energy, decreased allergies, decreased puffiness and a better tongue posture, which can purportedly help create a more defined jawline. Traditional medicine says none of those benefits have been demonstrated in the lab. Dr Jamie Winn, the Medical Director at Universal Drugstore, told me taping my mouth to sleep at night had no scientific backing. He advised against using it to prevent snoring and said anyone who was using it for that purpose should first consult a doctor. Dr Winn said: 'Most of the evidence supporting the benefits of mouth taping is based on personal anecdotes or extremely limited studies. There is insufficient strong scientific evidence to confirm its effectiveness.' So at best, I could wake up with a new face. At worst, the tape could be a rip off, and ruin my sleep. The cotton blend of the mouth tapes was soft, and the adhesive used is strong but not difficult to pull off. I felt like it left a residue around my mouth Vio2 is just one of many brands that offers medical-grade mouth tape. The price, which is $24.95 for a package of 48 mouth tapes, is fairly standard compared to other competitors Your browser does not support iframes. Still, despite the skepticism, I was full steam ahead. When I cracked open my $24.95 package of 48 mouth tapes, I found the instructions straight forward. The packaging says the tape can be worn to help 'train athletes in proper breathing, give you a chance at a great night's sleep or even help your partner reduce mouth snoring.' Dr. David Shaker, a doctor of osteopathy, a licensed physician who practices holistic medicine as well conventional techniques, said there are definite benefits for breathing through the nose: 'I wouldnt overlook the nose nose breathing is great for you.' Breathing through your nose during the day can help you get a higher oxygen content into the lungs, slowing the uptake and lowering blood pressure, making you feel calmer while increasing oxygenation, he said. Dr Chelsea Perry, a sleep specialist and dentist based in Massachusetts, added breathing through your nose reduces your risk of developing dry mouth, gum disease and cavities. So, she said, for some people, mouth taping could have benefits, but it's not for everyone, especially those who have trouble nose breathing. You have the option of wearing the mouth tape either vertically (pictured) or horizontally across your mouth. Dr Shaker does not recommend wearing it horizontally, as it may block emergency air flow through the mouth Still, Dr Perry said: 'Theoretically, you could get all these benefits [from mouth taping]. But the studies on mouth taping are so limited, it's hard to say.' Nevertheless, I persisted. On night one, after doing my skincare routine, I gently applied the mouth tape to my lips and laid in bed at 10:30 pm. The adhesive held onto my skin despite the layers of cream I had slapped on, which was an upside. But immediately, I started thinking about what happened if I wanted to drink water, or if my roommate came in to talk. I told myself those were silly questions, and tried to settle in. Before long, my attempts to quiet my mind gave way to a genuine feeling of claustrophobic panic - I didn't realize how much I relied on my mouth. Dr Perry said of all her concerns, 'Claustrophobia is definitely a big one.' After tossing and turning and doing deep nose breathing for about 30 minutes, I finally fell asleep. Then, at 4:00 am, I woke up, and couldn't fall back for about 15 minutes. I almost never wake up in the middle of the night. I was tempted to rip the tape off, but was stubbornly picturing the new jawline that TikTokers said I would have, and was determined to keep the tape on. But Dr Shaker said people should never put a piece of tape horizontally across their mouth while sleeping because you could completely block the airflow. Whoops, my bad. Before beginning the month of mouth taping, I was hoping to see some improvements in jaw shape. Sadly, I didn't notice any appreciable differences in my jaw after finishing the mouth taping Per the instructions on the back of my VIO2 tape, I had tried positioning the tape both horizontally and vertically across my lips. I found the horizontal position, where my mouth was essentially sealed shut, more comfortable. It's true that if you're struggling to breathe through your nose and have your mouth taped while you're asleep, you will probably wake up and be able to take the tape off your mouth. But long term, doing this every night will disrupt your overall sleep quality. It would be better therefore to use the tape vertically across your mouth, so that air can get through the sides if you need it. There are also some brands of tapes with holes in the middle. This is the same concern doctors have for people with undiagnosed sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition where interruptions to your nighttime airflow cause you to wake up frequently during the night. Though it sounds harmless enough, long term, it increases your risk of stroke, heart disease and heart failure, and the poor quality of sleep can cause depression, mood swings and irritability. I tried putting the tape on my mouth vertically, but found it didn't change my experience, and that I was actually more comfortable with it horizontal on my lips. In the morning, peeling the tape off my mouth wasn't painful, but it was unpleasant. As a person with sensitive skin, I cringed at the tugging sensation and tried to gently rub off the residual glue with water. On the positive side though, I had no morning breath. This exact pattern persisted nightly throughout week one - panic, sleep, wake up, panic, fall back asleep, wake up groggy. By day 10, I wasn't waking up in the middle of the night anymore, and my first move in the morning wasn't to remove the tape from my lips, so I supposed I was getting used to it. Still, I certainly didn't feel more energized. My diary entry from that day reads: 'I am so so so sleepy today. Cannot focus. Need to work. Feels like Im moving through jello... Woke up with big juicy white head on my chin next to flap of the bandage - coincidence?' Supermodel Ashley Graham revealed that she has started taping her mouth closed before she falls asleep at night. There are many different brands of mouth tape out there, and Graham appears to use a medical tape. Other celebrity proponents include Gwyneth Paltrow and Jimmy Fallon Over the next week, I had small, angry pimples on my chin and lips. Mouth tape can cause skin irritation and clogged pores - leading to breakouts, according to Curology. Clearly. Dr Shaker didn't have concerns about my skin, but he noted the mouth tape could come with a more serious condition. In severe cases, Dr Shaker said he was worried about people's potential to get something called aspiration pneumonia - a scenario that occurs when vomit or spit can't leave the mouth and instead gets breathed in, infecting the lungs. With this concern plaguing my mind, I skipped the mouth tape on nights after I had a few drinks, terrified of choking on my own vomit. Still, I returned during the week, rationalizing that if anything bad happened in the night, it would probably wake me up and I would be able to remove the tape quickly. For the rest of the month, this was more or less the same. My acne persisted, my sleep had stabilized, but I was tired. I had hope still, that I would awake one day with an Adonis jaw line. Dr Perry sadly dashed my hopes, saying: 'Unfortunately, short of surgery, you're not really going to change the shape of your jaw line.' At the end of my month, I felt and looked more or less the same, only a bit stickier around the mouth. If you're interested in trying it out, both doctors I spoke to said you should consult a doctor first to rule out any underlying conditions that could make it harder for you to breathe at night. I didn't see any benefits to mouth taping, but they said it's possible for it to work for others. Dr Perry said: 'If all is clear, then you have a blessing to try it. You know, see what works for you, as long as you're really taking those precautions, right? You don't want it to be deleterious.' The prospect of yawning in public fills me with fear. My anxiety isn't because others may see my apparent boredom or be let on to how tired I may be, but for the weird thing my body does when I can't resist carrying out the reflex. Around 90 percent of the time I yawn, a jet of water sprays out of my mouth. I describe it a bit like a cobra spitting venom towards a predator to defend itself. If I don't cover my mouth, the spout can reach quite far, and embarrassingly over the years it has jetted out to land on unsuspecting victims in close proximity - neighbors on planes, my partner next to me on the couch and my work computer, to list a few. Last time I went home to visit my mom, she voiced disgust as we sat having a glass of wine together and I failed to shield my mouth in time, allowing a small sprinkling of water to land on the dining room table. While I thought this was just a freaky thing I did, a friend recently told me I'm not alone. And there is actually a term for spitting when you yawn. It's called 'gleeking.' According to Dentistry for Children, gleeking 'is a natural occurrence that accidentally happens when yawning, eating or talking.' The act involves 'saliva being projected from the salivary glands under your tongue.' DailyMail.com's Sadie Whitelocks says the prospect of yawning in public fills her with fear because of the 'weird' thing that happens (stock image) Your browser does not support iframes. Only 35 percent of people unintentionally gleek, experts say, and only one percent can perform the act intentionally and on command. While I am in the 35 percent camp, I am powerless over controlling my gleeking. And it's not a useful party trick, as when I am put on the spot, I merely produce a normal yawn. People gleek when their tongue accidentally applies pressure to the sublingual glands, salivary glands located under the tongue in the floor of the mouth. Steven Morgano, the chair of the department of restorative dentistry at the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, told Health.com gleeking comes from 'built up watery saliva [in your sublingual glands, then,] pressure on the glands from the tongue causes the saliva to squirt out.' It commonly occurs when people yawn because of the positioning and movement of the tongue coupled with the movement of the jaw. Dr Mark Wolff, dean of the School of Dental Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, says 'everyone can gleek,' but he does not reveal why some people do it accidentally, while others can do it easily on command. On TikTok I was surprised - and somewhat comforted - to find clips about gleeking and other people who experience it. People who can gleek at will even offer tutorials for those looking to replicate the water fountain-like spout of saliva. In one clip, Texas-based orthodontist Dr Ben Winters offers a quick lesson on how to gleek. The content creator, who widely known online as The Bentist, says it is important to 'agitate your sublingual glands with your tongue' by pushing them around Sadie (pictured) says unfortunately gleeking is not a useful party trick, as when she's put on the spot, she 'merely produces a normal yawn' Next, he instructs viewers to 'stick your tongue to the roof of your mouth and go as far back as you can go.' He continues: 'The final step is to push your tongue up [against the roof of your mouth], while squeezing [against it].' After describing each step, Dr Winters then proceeds to spray saliva from his mouth towards the camera. The video quickly amassed thousands of comments with many viewers talking about their own experiences with gleeking. Like me, one viewer revealed: 'I can't do it on command, it only happens when I don't want it to.' Similarly, another commenter wrote: 'It happens once in a while for me and in the most embarrassing places.' Many people who watched Dr Winters' video also said they were unable to perform the gleeking action, despite their best attempts. On TikTok, Sadie said she was 'surprised - and somewhat comforted - to find clips about gleeking and other people who can do it' Dr. Benjamin Tweel, an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor, at Mount Sinai told DailyMail.com 'there's not much in the medical literature about gleeking' and he is 'unsure how common it is.' He adds: 'Also, a point of interest is that the term "gleeking," which always seemed universal to me, didn't mean anything to some of my partners; even though they knew what the phenomenon was when I asked, they didn't have a name for it. 'When I was growing up, trying to gleek was a popular playground activity, but only some kids could do it on command, and even then not consistently. 'All I can say, then, is that gleeking is the forceful expulsion of saliva from the submandibular gland through the submandibular duct (also known as Wharton's duct), by contracting muscles in the mouth and tongue. 'There isn't any information available on how common this is. I can say that, despite looking into thousands of mouths in the office, I have never had a patient gleek on me during an exam!' When Ashley Levinson was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer in 2023, she thought she would be able to lean on her relatives for love and support. But not long after she told them the devastating news, her relatives went silent. The calls stopped coming, and so did the encouraging texts. It was like they had disappeared. Ms Levinson, a retired nurse from New Jersey, was the victim of cancer ghosting when friends and loved ones cease all contact after someone receives a cancer diagnosis. The loss of friends and some relatives was distressing, and completely unexplained. The heartbreaking phenomenon is extremely painful for the patient battling cancer, who suddenly finds themselves alone. Beating cancer takes a village of close friends and family for support as well as a comprehensive medical team of oncologists and counselors to help deal with the myriad of psychological effects of being diagnosed with the disease. Ms Levinson's experience of losing relatives during the most challenging time of her life is not an uncommon one. In fact, one survey of cancer patients found 65 percent had seen their friends and relatives cut contact after revealing their diagnosis. Karen Selby, a registered nurse at the Mesothelioma Center in Orlando, Florida, told DailyMail.com of a cancer patient she cares for who said that since his diagnosis eight months ago 'all but one of his friends have stopped communicating with him altogether.' Ashley Levinson was abandoned by friends and family when she was diagnosed with breast cancer last year Ms Levinson told ABC the lack of contact with family members was really a punch to the gut when the people who I thought were my core people werent there for me. She, fortunately, still had the love and support of her two children, Hannah, 21, and Jake, 23, who were with their mother the whole way. Often, when relatives or friends sever contact with a sick person, it has nothing to do with the sick person. Instead, the ghosting is borne out of fear of or trauma from similar previous experiences and may be a person's way of protecting themselves. Ms Levinson believes her relatives stopped speaking to her due to the trauma of losing another family member to breast cancer years prior. She said: Maybe they felt like ignoring it would make it go away. But as we all know, cancer does not go away on its own. Patients who have detailed their experiences with cancer ghosting said they reminded their relatives of death whenever they saw each other, and those relatives didnt know how to handle it. Natasha Carlson was abandoned by two close friends of 22 years after she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018, she wrote for curetoday.com. She wrote she did not speak with those friends for over a year after being diagnosed. She said: No responses to emails, texts, phone calls. Even when I was reaching out because I was confused and hurt, this did not generate any sort of reciprocal response. Honestly, this was one of the most painful parts of the entire cancer experience for me. Losing my breasts was hard. Losing my close friend of 22 years was not something that I had even remotely thought might happen. 'It was a bitter and painful lesson that I was forced to learn during a particularly vulnerable time in my life. Ms Levinson is pictured after her mastectomy this year. Patients experiencing cancer ghosting have shared their relatives avoided them because seeing each other reminded them of death, leaving the relatives unsure how to cope Ms Levinson is pictured with her two children who have been by her side throughout the entire ordeal, attending chemo treatments with her and supporting her recovery Your browser does not support iframes. She wondered if her friends couldn't be there due to personal struggles but questioned why they didn't reconnect after their rough patches were over. She believed the shame of abandoning their friend, guilt, embarrassment or poor mental health could be factors. And while she may never know the reasons, Ms Carlson has come to terms with the pain of not having closure and continues to feel frustrated and hurt by the situation. Meanwhile, Maggie Hundshamer-Moshier was diagnosed with breast cancer and was scared out of my mind,' she wrote. Many friends she regularly interacted with before the diagnosis slowly faded from her life. Initially, it wasnt very noticeable, but over time, she realized how many had disappeared. She said: My first instinct was sorrow, which then turned to anger and resentment. It became easy to wonder why everyone elses lives kept on while mine seemed to be at a standstill. I never stopped to take the time to realize why they may be absent. It was hard to see outside of my own pain at the time to realize that the people I loved were also just trying to protect themselves. They were afraid of losing her if she didnt get better. There were too many questions they didnt feel comfortable asking, fearing they might come across as insensitive. And it was painful for them to watch someone they loved suffer so much. The situation reminded them of a past loss, and they werent ready to experience that same heartbreak again. Another patient who goes unnamed described on Reddit the feeling of being ghosted after their cancer diagnosis as 'shocking and confusing' and 'just not something I could even imagine doing.' They said: '[My close friend group] also collectively ignored my 30th birthday which was just a few months after my diagnosis... This for me nullifies the "they didn't know what to say" excuse. It doesn't take much eloquence to text a friend "happy birthday."' They said that now, around three years after starting treatment, the abandonment still hurts and even angers them. They added: 'I'm honestly not confident that me telling them now that ghosting me was superbly hurtful would generate any productive outcomes. But at the same time it feels wrong that they are taking absolutely zero accountability.' Ms Selby was surprised to find out, after hearing about it for the first time from her current patient, how pervasive this problem is. She said that, since she works in the medical field, patients are more likely to talk to her about their physical problems than emotional ones. She said: 'This is not just someones imagination of feeling neglected. It is happening to patients across the nation during a time when they are frankly in real need of both physical and emotional support from their friends and family.' Blog Archive: Mar 2025 (75) Feb 2025 (139) Jan 2025 (155) Dec 2024 (144) Nov 2024 (143) Oct 2024 (155) Sep 2024 (149) Aug 2024 (155) Jul 2024 (155) Jun 2024 (150) May 2024 (153) Apr 2024 (149) Mar 2024 (155) Feb 2024 (145) Jan 2024 (155) Dec 2023 (155) Nov 2023 (150) Oct 2023 (155) Sep 2023 (150) Aug 2023 (155) Jul 2023 (155) Jun 2023 (150) May 2023 (155) Apr 2023 (150) Mar 2023 (155) Feb 2023 (140) Jan 2023 (155) Dec 2022 (156) Nov 2022 (150) Oct 2022 (155) Sep 2022 (150) Aug 2022 (155) Jul 2022 (154) Jun 2022 (150) May 2022 (155) Apr 2022 (150) Mar 2022 (155) Feb 2022 (140) Jan 2022 (156) Dec 2021 (156) Nov 2021 (150) Oct 2021 (155) Sep 2021 (150) Aug 2021 (155) Jul 2021 (155) Jun 2021 (150) May 2021 (155) Apr 2021 (150) Mar 2021 (155) Feb 2021 (140) Jan 2021 (155) Dec 2020 (155) Nov 2020 (150) Oct 2020 (158) Sep 2020 (150) Aug 2020 (130) Jul 2020 (124) Jun 2020 (120) May 2020 (124) Apr 2020 (120) Mar 2020 (124) Feb 2020 (116) Jan 2020 (125) Dec 2019 (126) Nov 2019 (120) Oct 2019 (124) Sep 2019 (120) Aug 2019 (125) Jul 2019 (124) Jun 2019 (120) May 2019 (123) Apr 2019 (121) Mar 2019 (124) Feb 2019 (112) Jan 2019 (125) Dec 2018 (126) Nov 2018 (120) Oct 2018 (124) Sep 2018 (121) Aug 2018 (124) Jul 2018 (125) Jun 2018 (120) May 2018 (124) Apr 2018 (121) Mar 2018 (124) Feb 2018 (112) Jan 2018 (123) Dec 2017 (124) Nov 2017 (124) Oct 2017 (141) Sep 2017 (135) Aug 2017 (138) Jul 2017 (137) Jun 2017 (134) May 2017 (138) Apr 2017 (135) Mar 2017 (139) Feb 2017 (129) Jan 2017 (143) Dec 2016 (135) Nov 2016 (138) Oct 2016 (142) Sep 2016 (128) Aug 2016 (133) Jul 2016 (136) Jun 2016 (138) May 2016 (164) Apr 2016 (311) Mar 2016 (348) Feb 2016 (320) Jan 2016 (348) Dec 2015 (314) Nov 2015 (338) Oct 2015 (363) Sep 2015 (358) Aug 2015 (399) Jul 2015 (374) Jun 2015 (331) May 2015 (337) Apr 2015 (319) Mar 2015 (320) Feb 2015 (271) Jan 2015 (286) Dec 2014 (254) Nov 2014 (238) Oct 2014 (287) Sep 2014 (267) Aug 2014 (259) Jul 2014 (260) Jun 2014 (238) May 2014 (241) Apr 2014 (228) Mar 2014 (240) Feb 2014 (217) Jan 2014 (263) Dec 2013 (226) Nov 2013 (254) Oct 2013 (256) Sep 2013 (252) Aug 2013 (263) Jul 2013 (261) Jun 2013 (251) May 2013 (250) Apr 2013 (221) Mar 2013 (193) Feb 2013 (164) Jan 2013 (157) Dec 2012 (155) Nov 2012 (240) Oct 2012 (526) Sep 2012 (411) Aug 2012 (394) Jul 2012 (284) Jun 2012 (229) May 2012 (213) Apr 2012 (213) Mar 2012 (253) Feb 2012 (269) Jan 2012 (298) Dec 2011 (273) Nov 2011 (219) Oct 2011 (204) Sep 2011 (201) Aug 2011 (236) Jul 2011 (217) Jun 2011 (211) May 2011 (206) Apr 2011 (215) Mar 2011 (215) Feb 2011 (186) Jan 2011 (215) Dec 2010 (107) Nov 2010 (98) Oct 2010 (55) Doctors have warned British men that they may be about to suffer difficulties in the bedroom, due to a weather-related affliction known as 'winter penis'. The phenomenon describes how male genitals shrink when the temperature drops, as a result of restricted blood flow to the area. Not only does this lead to a size reduction of up to 50 per cent, the reduced blood flow to the area can make it more challenging for a man to maintain an erection. Dr Donald Grant, a GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, explained that the problem happens because the body 'prioritises blood flow to more important parts of the body' in the cold, such as internal organs. While most men who experience 'winter penis' will find it only occurs briefly and occasionally, it can be far worse for those with underlying erectile dysfunction (ED). Some 4.3 million men in the UK are thought to suffer with erectile dysfunction, according to The Urology Foundation. 'Men who already suffer from ED could find their condition more difficult to manage, when weather begins to deteriorate,' said Dr Grant. Dr Grant said winter penis is a perfectly natural reaction the body undergoes to protect the organ from frigid weather, and can affect men of all ages. 'Winter penis' the name given for the phenomenon where men's genitals shrink in in the colder seasons 'Winter penis is the body's temporary response to the drop in temperatures which causes the penis and testicles to shrink in size,' he said. 'The testicles shrink so they remain as close to the body as possible to stay warm.' Winter penis also has a simple fix: once you warm up the size of the organ will return to normal, as body stops adapting to better survive the cold, he added. However, experts warn that just because winter penis exists men shouldn't dismiss consistent changes to the size and function of their penis. Dr Grant recommended any man experiencing a longer term change in the shape of their genitals, including the testes, or the blood flow to their member to seek advice from their GP as a precaution. Additionally, any man suffering from ED should seek out help as range of treatments and medications can help address the problem. This is important because not only is sexual function a key aspect of people's wellbeing, but ED can also sometimes be an indicator of serious health problems like cardiovascular disease. Winter penis shouldn't be confused with frostbite, a serious medical condition where tissue is exposed to extremely cold temperatures. With frostbite the affected area begins to feel cold and painful as blood withdraws from the area to protect internal body temperature. If exposure to cold continues, the sensation of pins and needles can happen before the area finally numbs over as tissue freezes, damaging it. In extreme cases the tissue can be lost as a result, requiring amputation. Frostbite of the penis is rare compared to other parts of the body such as the ears or fingers as the genitals are more likely to be wrapped in clothing if someone is caught outdoors. The NHS says those who suffer frostbite most commonly climbers, skiers and the homeless should be taken to warm environments urgently. The majority of Britains one million patients living with debilitating heart failure could be offered a controversial weight-loss jab from next month. Pivotal trial findings were unveiled last night showing the drug, tirzepatide, cut the risk of death or worsening illness by more than a third making it the first drug to have a significant impact on the most common form of the condition. Experts reacting to the announcement at the American Heart Association annual conference immediately hailed it a new cornerstone of treatment. They added that the jabs had the potential to reduce the number of heart failure hospital admissions by tens of thousands saving vital NHS cash and easing the agony of patients and their families. Tirzepatide, sold under the brand name Mounjaro, is one of a new generation of weight-loss medications that have transformed the treatment of obesity and its related diseases. In early trials, patients on it shed 20 per cent of their body weight, leading doctors to dub it the King Kong of slimming drugs. It has already received the backing of Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who last month announced a five-year 279 million deal with maker Eli Lilly to supply thousands of doses on the NHS. Mr Streeting said he plans to offer the jabs to the jobless, to see if shedding pounds could improve their employment prospects. Tirzepatide is expected to be given the green light for weight loss next month at which point cardiologists will be able to prescribe it to most heart-failure patients The NHS spending watchdog approved tirzepatide in June for diabetics and is expected to give it the green light for weight loss next month at which point cardiologists will be able to prescribe it to most heart failure patients. Volunteers on the three-year trial had heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, or HFpEF, which accounts for up to 70 per cent of cases and is caused by obesity. Despite vast numbers of sufferers, until now there has been very little doctors could offer to improve patients odds, as drugs that work on other types of heart failure have little effect. Trial patients all lost weight but benefits were seen after just three months, leading experts to conclude the drug must have effects beyond aiding slimming. Whats really impressive in this is the magnitude of the effect, said world-renowned heart-failure expert Dr Milton Packer, visiting professor at Imperial College, who led the study. Other drugs to treat heart failure offer a 13 to 18 per cent reduction in risk of worsening illness, he said. Tirzepatide offers a 38 per cent reduction and I think its because it addresses the root cause of the disease. Heart failure is an incurable illness where the heart stops pumping as well as it should. Symptoms include extreme breathlessness and life-ruining fatigue, and just half of patients live more than five years after their diagnosis. It can be triggered by a heart attack, blocked arteries and genetics, but obesity is thought to be a significant driver in almost all cases. It is thought that pockets of fat accumulate around the internal organs, releasing inflammatory compounds that damage the heart. In the trial, researchers found tirzepatide reduced levels of inflammatory proteins in the body a sign, they said, it was having an effect beyond simple weight loss. Numbers of heart-failure sufferers have surged in recent decades, with 200,000 new cases and 100,000 related emergency hospital admissions in the UK every year. The findings come after tirzepatide was linked to the death of a British nurse earlier this month. It is thought to be the first fatality officially attributed to drug in the UK. Now Ozempic could come as a patch For one in ten users of the weight-loss drug Ozempic, the weekly jabs can be traumatic and painful. Now scientists have developed a skin patch that does the job just as well but with none of the discomfort. And it only has to be changed once a month. The patch, worn on the upper arm, is packed with hundreds of tiny microneedles that puncture the skin, allowing the drug to seep into the body, but without going so deep that they hit nerves and trigger any pain. The UK has the highest obesity rates in Europe. The emergence of Ozempic has raised hopes of reducing the health risks associated with obesity such as heart disease and cancer. The patch has been developed by researchers at the University of Connecticut in the US. Tests showed it delivered a steady flow of medicine that lasted at least a month. Scientists now plan to run clinical trials on obese patients. On those rare occasions when I do something unselfish, I try to keep quiet about it. The Bible warns against boasting of how charitable we are wise advice. But in one thing I break this rule. I go on and on about giving blood. This is because I want people to know how enjoyable it is, and to start doing it. It is partly the ritual of arriving, having your blood tested. It is partly the knowledge that you will get nothing material out of it at all. Here, for once, in a small busy room you can do something only because you want to do it. Theres no bargain, no pressure, no payment. There is always the charm, patience and good humour of the staff. Yes, there is a small sharp pain as the needle goes in, but it really is not very much. The problem is that most people have no idea that this is so, and have never considered doing it. Blood donation was once much more a part of normal life. Large workplaces, which are so much less common, would hold donor sessions in nearby church halls, which are also less common. It is more than 60 years since the comedian Tony Hancock recorded his sketch about donating blood, in which he ends up getting his own back after wounding himself with his bread knife. The programme is a historical archive from a vanished world, in which Hancock wears a trench coat and a pork pie hat and the doctor wears a white coat and severe glasses and speaks like a caricature wartime professional of the upper classes. Hancock is required to donate a British pint (nearly an armful!, as he says) instead of the metric 500 millilitres today. A woman gives blood in the sun during the Second World War. Blood donation was once much more of a part of normal life, writes PETER HITCHENS Blood donors giving an armful at an NHS clinic. Millions see blood donation as an old-fashioned middle-aged suburban practice, which is somehow no longer necessary This air of nostalgia may be the problem. Millions may regard blood donation as an old-fashioned middle-aged suburban activity, dating from wartime and post-war austerity which has somehow ceased to be necessary. Blood donation seems to come from the same era as mass radiography and TB hospitals, iron lungs and wooden crutches. When I first gave blood, at York University in the 1970s, the process was marvellously archaic, with nurses in starched caps and aprons, a reverent silence during the procedure, blood stored in glass bottles, and recovery rooms with iron-framed beds covered in grey blankets with red stripes. I was never offered (as some claim to have been) a restorative pint of Guinness afterwards, but there was strong tea in a china cup and a plate of Huntley & Palmers biscuits. The event changed my life for the better in a surprising way. Donors were issued with a large paper packet of iron pills and instructed to take them for two weeks afterwards, with a good breakfast, every day. Thanks to this instruction I began getting up early for breakfast as a matter of course, unlike almost all my fellow students who tended to snooze till noon. I found I enjoyed the early starts and the breakfasts, and have never gone back to lie-ins. There may have been other reasons why students did not give blood much in those days. At Oxford in the 1960s, according to a widely believed legend which I have never tracked down but which seems entirely credible to me, a special donor session was held so revolutionary undergraduates could give blood to the Viet Cong guerrillas then fighting the Americans in Vietnam. Many gallons of Trotskyist gore were collected, and then driven to East Berlin for processing. The story goes that when the East German medics tested for impurities, the Oxford blood was so infused with marijuana that it all had to be poured down the drain and so never reached North Vietnam. The blood people do, after all, have to be careful that what they put into sick and injured patients is not contaminated. These days the donor is confronted with a fearsome form in which he or she must confess, before giving blood, to drug abuse, some rather liberated types of sexual activity, or moderately exotic travel (youd be surprised how many rather ordinary places are suspect thanks to such insect-borne diseases as West Nile Fever). Dental work can be a risk. A close up of a man donating blood. About 47,500 donors give blood each week, and hospitals need about 113,000 donations a month, but short shelf life means stocks need to be constantly refreshed I am sometimes frowned at when I admit to having taken paracetamol for a headache some days before, but generally they stretch a point. This might also put some people off, but it is necessary. It was almost certainly a shortage of donors which led to the horrific scandal of blood contaminated with hepatitis C and HIV which endured from the 1970s to the 1990s. In an effort to treat and help people with haemophilia, Britain obtained supplies of blood products from the US, many of which came from blood which had been paid for and so should never have been used. Paid-for blood or blood products are appallingly likely to have been provided by people with infected or otherwise dangerous blood. Tens of thousands of men and women were, as a result, infected with hepatitis C and HIV thanks to tainted blood or infected clotting factor products. It has been estimated that more than 30,000 patients received contaminated blood, resulting in at least 3,000 deaths. Any study of this case will make you deeply angry. The best response would be to start giving blood as soon as you can it will make a repeat of this shameful tragedy far less likely. But now something else has gone wrong. During the summer, the NHS appealed for people with O-type blood (which can be given to anyone) to donate urgently, after stocks dropped to unprecedently low levels in England. The shortage followed a crisis caused by unfilled appointments at donor centres and increased demand after a cyber-attack affected services in London. And, last week, NHS England asked blood donors rather plaintively to book and stick to their appointments last Christmas saw the lowest monthly total of donations since 2020. It has urged donors to book over the next six weeks to ensure the nation has the blood needed by hospitals this Christmas. Last December, NHS England collected around 108,000 donations, ten per cent below the monthly average. Blood donors being attended to by a female nurse at a health centre in Lewisham, south London in the late 60s/early 70s About 47,500 donors give blood each week, and hospitals need about 113,000 donations a month. But blood has a shelf-life of just 35 days, so stocks need to be refreshed all the time. None of these shortages would happen if there were more regular donors. And you cannot assume that the existing ageing donors will keep going for ever. Theres a limit on how often donors can give blood men can donate every 12 weeks, women every 16 weeks. Donors aged 1724 make up just 7 per cent of the donor base. And an extra 200,000 new donors are needed to sign up each year to meet demand. If you are not one of them, consider becoming one this Christmas. Once you have provided your first armful, dont be surprised if you cant stop doing so. They're the common cold remedies most of us have in our bathroom cabinets. But last week, over-the-counter products such as Lemsip, Sudafed and Beechams were at the centre of an unlikely controversy after the US Food and Drug Administration proposed removing some of the products from sale over mounting evidence that one of the main ingredients, a decongestant called phenylephrine, doesnt work when given orally. Professor Ron Eccles, former head of the Common Cold Centre at Cardiff University, said phenylephrine was an ineffective medicine and products containing it should also be taken off the shelves in the UK. It prompted uproar on social media. Some blasted pharmaceutical companies for selling snake oil, while others who rely on the miracle drug products said they were the only thing which helped unblock a stuffed nose. Its a timely debate at the start of the nations cold and flu season, with scientists predicting a tripledemic outbreak of Covid, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Last week, over-the-counter products such as Lemsip, Sudafed and Beechams were at the centre of an unlikely controversy The US Food and Drug Administration proposed removing some of the products from sale over mounting evidence that one of the main ingredients, a decongestant called phenylephrine, doesnt work when given orally But it also reveals a curious theme when it comes to many of the popular treatments in pharmacies or from supermarket shelves theyre a godsend for some, while others claim they have little effect. Why is there so much disagreement? The simple explanation is, according to experts, that many of the products we rely on to treat cold sores to coughs are only minimally effective and, in some cases, theyre little more than a placebo. All such products are approved and licensed as safe and effective medicines by the medicines regulator, the MHRA. But, as Dr Hisham Al-Obaid, a lecturer in pharmacy at the University of Reading, said: There are quite a few over-the-counter treatments where [there] is not that much evidence that they work and, quite often, there are other, much cheaper ways of treating them yourself. Some offer only limited relief, without tackling the underlying cause. Others target minor ailments which would disappear naturally by themselves. Here are five other treatments that are likely to be in your home but which might not quite do what you think Ditch the cough syrup for honey and lemon Benylin Dry & Tickly Cough Syrup (Glycerol and Sucrose), 150ml, 5.80 from Boots What is it? Used by millions, these syrups claim to soothe sore throats and reduce coughing. The global market for cough medicines was worth more than $5billion (3.9bn) last year. There are a variety of options available, with different ingredients. This Benylin product contains glycerol and sucrose which, according to its ads, coats your throat and helps reduce the urge to cough, and relieves irritated and sore throats. Expert verdict: There is very limited, good-quality evidence that cough syrups actually make your cough better. Glycerol, a naturally occurring alcohol, and sucrose, a type of sugar, are known in science as having demulcent properties, which means they form a protective film that can relieve inflammation or irritation. But a review in 2017 found no published evidence on its efficacy as a cough treatment. GP Dr Philippa Kaye says th evidence is contradictory when it comes to cough medicine, and honey and lemon may be more effective Other cough syrups contain active ingredients such as guaifenesin, which loosens mucus and makes it easier to cough, or dextromethorphan, which blocks the cough reflex in the brain and means you cough less. But the evidence is contradictory, says GP Dr Philippa Kaye. The evidence is very mixed for the benefits of various types of cough medicine, she says. Some studies find they reduce the severity and frequency of coughs, while other studies find no additional benefit compared to a placebo. But there is good evidence that honey and lemon in warm water, which has both an antiseptic and lubricating effect on the throat, is effective. So if youre using a cough syrup thats just glycerol and sucrose, honey will probably work just as well and cost less. There is very limited, good-quality evidence that cough syrups actually make your cough better, 'but there is good evidence that honey and lemon in warm water, which has both an antiseptic and lubricating effect on the throat, is effective' Gels which don't cure a cold sore Bonjela Cool Mint Gel Double Action for Mouth Ulcers and Cold Sores, 15g, 5.90 from Sainsburys What is it? Cold sores are common, but painful blisters which appear on the face, often on the lips, are caused by the herpes simplex virus. They can be hard to shift one in five people has a recurring problem. This Bonjela gel contains choline salicylate an anti-inflammatory pain reliever, related to aspirin and cetalkonium chloride, an antiseptic. Bonjela claims its gel helps stamp out germs, quickly soothes, and reduces swelling, and provides effective pain relief in just three minutes. Expert verdict: While these gels will provide some relief by reducing inflammation and pain, they wont cure your cold sore, says Penny Ward, visiting professor in pharmaceutical medicine at Kings College London. Choline salicylate is commonly used as a pain reliever for other conditions including gout and rheumatoid arthritis, and cetalkonium chloride can help to treat these infections. But Professor Ward says: All Bonjela is doing is dealing with the pain of a cold sore rather than killing the virus. Its soothing, but youre better off using something containing acyclovir cream, like Zovirax, which is an anti-viral. Studies suggest acyclovir creams can make cold sores go away about one day sooner and may reduce the severity of symptoms. But even these wont prevent further outbreaks or stop the spread to others. Ultimately, cold sores are uncomfortable for a few days but they will eventually disappear by themselves, says Dr Al-Obaidi. So its up to you if youre happy for nature to take its course or not. You wont notice much difference either way. Soothes piles but it can't clear them Anusol Cream, 23g, 4.60 from Boots What is it? They're the painful lumps in and around the anus which affect around four out of five people at some point in their lives. Causing irritation, inflammation, bleeding and an intense itch, haemorrhoids known as piles are swollen blood vessels which may form because of too much pressure from constipation, pregnancy or heavy lifting. The three-way action Anusol cream contains zinc oxide, Balsam of Peru and bismuth oxide. The product says it shrinks piles, relieves discomfort and soothes itching. Expert verdict: The main problem with these creams is they wont actually get rid of your haemorrhoids, according to Professor Ward. Anusol does offer relief from symptoms. Zinc oxide acts like a barrier to protect the skin around the anus, and it has a soothing effect and may reduce some of the inflammation. Bismuth oxide is an antiseptic which protects raw areas around the anus from infection. Balsam of Peru is also a mild antiseptic though it can trigger an allergic response known as contact dermatitis. Experts say there are no large, good-quality clinical studies concluding that these products can hasten the disappearance of haemorrhoids. Ideally you at least want one which contains hydrocortisone, a steroid, which will definitely reduce the itch and the irritation around the anus, Professor Ward says. Some others also contain lidocaine which is as an anaesthetic, which reduces pain. However, prolonged use of any creams containing steroids can also thin the skin leading to further irritation. AnuSol said its cream was licensed for the symptomatic relief of uncomplicated internal and external haemorrhoids. Taking steps to prevent piles from initially developing is also crucial the NICE guidance prioritises lifestyle advice and simple painkillers over considering the use of over-the-counter skin creams. Its important to ensure youre not constipated, by increasing your fibre intake with plenty of fruit and veg and wholegrains, and drinking enough fluids, Dr Kaye says. You might need a fibre supplement, like ispaghula husk, and to get some exercise to keep things moving. Importantly, any bleeding from the bottom should always be checked by a GP. Bite creams that can cause bad reactions Anthisan Bite and Sting Cream, 20g, 4 from Morrisons What is it? Anthisan is a staple for applying to bites and nettle stings. The active ingredient is mepyramine maleate, an antihistamine which blocks the bodys immune response to any allergen. Anthisan says its product provides effective relief from pain, itching and inflammation caused by insect bites, insect stings and nettle rash. Expert verdict: A review by the Drugs and Therapeutics Bulletin in 2012 found such creams, known as topical antihistamines, are generally not recommended and the British National Formulary says theyre only marginally effective and sometimes cause skin reactions. They do not specifically refer to mepyramine maleate, which is the same antihistamine used in a bite cream produced by high street pharmacy Boots just such creams in general. But it remains the case that there is little evidence for the effectiveness of any topical antihistamine for insect bites, and in rare cases they may themselves lead to swelling. The latest advice to GPs is that they have uncertain value and that the evidence was lacking for the use of any antihistamine including tablets and for steroid creams. But NICE does recommend simple first aid if someone has a reaction to a bite, which might include painkillers, an antihistamine tablet and steroid cream. Dr Al-Obaidi says: The problem with topical antihistamines is that the active ingredient doesnt absorb into the skin very well and, for most people, taking a tablet will work better to reduce inflammation and itching. The Last Secret Agent by Pippa Latour with Jude Dobson (Monoray 22, 288pp) The Last Secret Agent is available now from the Mail Bookshop In May 1944 a 23-year-old British girl called Pippa Latour parachuted into occupied Normandy with nothing more than a sten gun, a compass, a natty mustard suit that was supposed to make her look French and a lethal pill to swallow in the event that she was caught by the Germans. Her job was to send coded messages back to London about Nazi troop movements during these desperate final months of the war. This made her a spy, which meant that, in the event of capture, the Germans would ignore the Geneva Convention. She would be tortured, almost certainly raped, and murdered. The average life expectancy of a man in her position was just six weeks. Women were better at lasting a little while longer but even so, Pippas bosses put her chances of coming home at 50/50. At the outset of this compulsively readable book, Pippa is characteristically clear-sighted about the nature of her work for the Special Operations Executive. I was not a James Bond-style spy. I was a secret agent whose job it was to blend into the background and cause quiet chaos. She did this by posing as a French teenager (she was petite and could pass at a pinch for 14) who cycled around the Normandy countryside selling goats milk soap to German soldiers who were sick of their gritty army-issued toiletries. In fact, what Pippa was actually doing as she chatted to her customers was picking up intelligence about troop movements. Then, using one of 17 radio sets hidden in ditches, hedges or bombed-out buildings around the countryside, she would transmit the information back to her handlers in London. Within hours, a deadly attack by the Allies from the skies would surgically remove the German soldiers to whom the pretty French schoolgirl had recently been selling soap. While Pippas language skills were perfect, thanks to a French father and a stint in a Parisian finishing school, she had been issued extra instructions about how to make sure she never gave herself away. Better than Bond: Pippa Latour was only 23 when she was sent behind enemy lines Effects of War: Pippa after returning from France This included never taking off her beret indoors, looking left when she crossed the road, or putting the milk in before the tea. Her handlers had even insisted when she parachuted into France that her freshly shampooed hair should be made to look dirty being well-groomed would distinguish her from the locals, who had neither the time nor the energy to worry about their appearance. Within days of arriving, though, there was no need for these extra precautions. Often sleeping rough in the Normandy forest for fear of drawing attention to safe houses run by the French Resistance, Pippa got used to washing in muddy streams and eating roasted rat, with the result that she quickly acquired the exhausted and emaciated look of a long-time resident. By the time she left France four months later, following D-Day, she weighed just 5st 4lb. Even so, there were some terrifyingly close calls. Once, when Pippa was tapping out a message on a radio hidden in a local farmhouse, two German soldiers opened the door looking for food. Cool as a cucumber, she closed the wireless set, pretending that it was a case she was packing and told the men that she had scarlet fever and needed to get out of the village. The soldiers sensibly scarpered. On another even more dangerous occasion, she was strip-searched by the SS, who forgot to check the shoelace that she used to tie up her ponytail. Little did they know that inside she had hidden a thin piece of silk, on which she had recorded the codes that she used whenever she contacted her handlers in London. June 1944: German soldier in front of a sign encouraging the French to repel the Allies Other threats were more random. Once, she tells us in crisp, unsentimental prose, two German soldiers raped her, believing that she was indeed a French schoolgirl who deserved no better. Almost as traumatic was the fact that the attack was interrupted by a German officer who promptly shot the two perpetrators dead. Since that terrible event, Pippa tells us, I have never allowed anyone to kiss me on the lips. What sort of girl would be tough enough to volunteer for such a job, let alone see it through without giving herself away? The clue, inevitably, lies in Pippas early years. Born in South Africa to a British mother and French doctor father, she was an orphan by the age of four. Consequently, she was bounced around her extended family in both France and England, which gave her the kind of cosmopolitan air that allowed her to fit in anywhere. Perhaps Pippas greatest asset as a spy, though, was that, having lost such important family members early on, she had developed a steely inner core. Or, to put it in her own words, I trusted very few people. It is that self-containment which explains why Pippa Latour was 80 years old before she agreed to talk about her wartime past. Even then, she was still clearly annoyed about being outed by her adult sons, who came across a mention of her name on a website dealing with Churchills Secret Service, as the Special Operations Executive (SOE) was known, and demanded to know more. Without the advent of the internet, my wish for secrecy would likely have remained intact, she tells us crossly. Because, as I see it, it wasnt anybodys business what I did in the war. Family: Pippa with her children (from left) Odette, Pauline, Brendon and Barry Thank heavens, though, that Pippa Latour did agree to talk (naturally, she checked first that the Official Secrets Act no longer applied to her). For the result is this brilliant book that is not only a testimony to her personal heroism but also acts as a collective memorial for all the other female SOEs, many of them her colleagues, who were tortured and murdered by the Nazis. When Pippa died last year at the age of 102, the final living link with an extraordinary episode in womens history went with her. We have a duty never to forget. Whats the story? Iconic British brand Mulberry, founded in Somerset in 1971, recently received a B Corp certification, meaning its business model has been judged by an external panel against a stringent environmental and social framework. Why should I buy? This Bayswater bag (1,295 if bought new) is from a selection from the brands Mulberry Exchange initiative. It enables customers to trade in their preloved Mulberry bags, which are then expertly authenticated, rejuvenated and resold on the companys website at a lower price than new versions. Customers then receive credit that can be put towards their next purchase. Why shouldnt I buy? Buying second-hand is one of the most sustainable ways to shop, and Mulberrys preloved pieces sell at hundreds of pounds less than new, so were struggling to find a reason not to treat ourselves. The extra mile Even before its B Corp certification, sustainability was always important to Mulberry. All its leather is sourced from environmentally accredited tanneries and many of its products are created in its two carbon-neutral factories in Somerset. Made in England Made from Leather Journey Mulberry prioritises using lower-emission shipping. With many pieces made in the UK, the carbon footprint from its transport is particularly low compared to other major brands. Our rating Forget Doctor Who. Surely the juiciest TV job going is lead detective in the TV series Death in Paradise as well as its spin-offs Beyond Paradise and now Return to Paradise, dubbed the Paraverse. Before you scoff, consider some facts. In its 13 winters, the escapist whodunnit in the heat has brought the BBC more than eight million viewers an episode, while Beyond Paradise clocks a healthy seven million. One in four Brits tune in at 9pm on Sundays, and it goes out to 240 territories worldwide the sun never sets on Paradise, and the formula is worth a fortune. TV producer and novelist Richard Osman, who knows a thing or two about murder mysteries himself, says its a bigger cultural export than Bond. Enter Anna Samson, 34, a newcomer to primetime telly outside Australia (eagle-eyed viewers might remember her as personal trainer Mia Anderson from Home and Away). Starring in the brand-new Return to Paradise, beginning on BBC One this Friday, she plays Mackenzie Clarke, a DI with a permanent frown, who doesnt play nice or jolly things along. A fiance has been jilted back in London (while her new boss happens to be his mother). Set in Australias fictional Dolphin Cove, it was shot in two beautiful spots: the golden beaches of the Illawarra region, where Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes was filmed, and Sydneys Northern Beaches, which audiences are probably more familiar with as Home and Aways Summer Bay. Dress, Georgia Hardinge. Earrings, ring and bangle, David Morris. Sandals, Loeffler Randall Ardal OHanlon is the only character resurrected from previous series, and the connecting theme from the other corners of the Paraverse is that its still gloriously good fun. DI Clarke, like OHanlon, is another odd fish, says Samson: she understands puzzles and equations because they have an answer, but theres no answer or equation to human emotion or the human heart, so it terrifies her. The end result is a hoot. Its cheeky, with a wink in almost every scene to the audience and to the genre. Also a hoot is Samson in the flesh. When we meet at a hotel in East London, she is in a terrific mood. She couldnt make the internet work in her hotel room this morning and realised it was a blessed relief to watch London go by rather than be stuck in my insidious nasty little devices. A striking redhead, she has eyes so wide open and blue that, with her cheekbones, they give her the faraway look of a rather glamorous alien. She has a slightly lazy eye, she says, because, as a child, I fell off a slide and hit my eye on every step on the way down, and I think I gave myself a little nerve damage. Its a face that could be old-world Hollywood, when actually she comes from Haywards Heath, West Sussex. Her father an engineer who taught himself jazz piano in his spare time left his job at Thames Water to build a dam to deliver fresh water to more parts of West Africa, so the family moved to Maiduguri, northeastern Nigeria, when Samson was two years old. She was an only child, and they didnt have a TV her father made one from a cardboard box, with magazine covers on a reel. On Friday nights theyd go dancing at the local Alliance Francaise. At school, where her mum, a nurse, volunteered, she was the only white kid. Her childhood in West Africa is a vital part of who she is: To have a concept of the scale of our world and how differently humans live in it while essentially being the same at such a young age, its a real gift. A few years later, when they returned to the UK, Samson would visit her grandparents on their council estate in Hackney, and be taken by them to West End shows like Oliver!, and I thought, Thats magic, I want to be in that. Her parents relocated to Australia in Samsons early teens her dads job, again and being back in England today makes her feel shes come home. My grandads ashes are in the Thames, I think, she says. Maybe illegally. We chucked them over the balcony of the Prospect of Whitby [a pub in Wapping]. I get really sentimental when its sunny and the Thames is twinkling. I like to think its my grandads East End wink. Dress, Nanushka. Bracelet and rings, Adler After leaving home aged 17 to attend drama school in Melbourne, at the Victorian College of the Arts, Samson worked in theatre, gaining film and TV roles in 2021 she got the part in Home and Away. Its hard to find an actor in Australia who hasnt at least done a guest appearance as some baddie from out of town coming into Summer Bay, she laughs. Today she lives alone, calling it a privileged coastal existence in my lovely art deco flat in Sydney. The more we talk, the more she seems to have in common with the unusually clever DI Clarke. She has recently taken a short course on the Magna Carta and how it links to the American constitution because I find my brain is desperately bored if Im not learning something new. Until now, her work has been mainly psychologically meaty and dark roles on the stage. She has a bag full of books, as she is also studying for an MA in literature at university in Sydney, though thats currently on hold. She plans to take a PhD in something like the intersection of literature and performance afterwards. As for her latest screen role, its about time Britains biggest TV export had a female DI with brains. To date, the detectives have been bumbling blokes: Ben Miller, Kris Marshall, Ralf Little and, of course, OHanlon. I think there is a sort of kindness in the bones of Death in Paradise and Return to Paradise, says Samson. I dont think you can have kindness without inclusivity at some point. Was she aware she had big shoes to fill? Yes, she says, there was a level of nerves, fear and pressure in taking up the mantle of not only maverick detectives but beloved English male actors. I cant replicate what the previous detectives did. You cant. Yet Paradises charms have not impressed every critic. When Death in Paradise arrived on our screens in 2011, The Telegraph called it the densest collection of Caribbean cliches ever assembled on British television. The Guardian dismissed it as so formulaic, its almost funny. Now a quarter of this country tunes in. I mean, one in four people to be watching? Thats not something you can think about between action and cut, otherwise youd go crazy, says Samson. She prepared for the role like mad, calling executive producer Peter Mattessi at three oclock in the morning to talk about the best way to deliver punctuation. Thats very early, I say. Not all actors work that way, she says. But its necessary for me to feel confident when I walk on set or on stage. And work really, really hard. Samson is used to the pressure. I talk about this word a lot, especially as a woman on screen, a youngish woman. You always feel you have to be palatable, she says. Except, refreshingly, playing DI Clarke didnt feel like that at all. The show is constructed so beautifully that the lead doesnt have to be palatable. I think this is an absolute treat of the franchise: that its got a central character who can be a little off-kilter. Dress, Solace. Jewellery, Juraster. Shoes, Kurt Geiger Is it the best job in television? She reckons so. I think Ive always harboured a desire to be a BBC detective, she says. Im English, I grew up here watching detectives and the BBC, so I knew I could bring something to it. Yet most of the shows alumni eventually tire of it. Ben Miller told Radio Times he gave Ralf Little some friendly advice for filming in Guadeloupe, the French Caribbean island where Death in Paradise is set: to spend 20 per cent of his energy trying to remember his lines, 20 per cent trying to hit his marks and 60 per cent trying to find a bit of shade. I hear Kris Marshall say this all the time, Samson says. It is such hard work to make it so easy. Youre shooting, going home to your hotel room and learning lines for completely different episodes with completely different murders going on. Whos the killer in this one? What murder weapon? What episode am I in? You go mad, a bit. (That said, shooting six episodes in four months on Sydneys Northern Beaches, both work- and climate-wise, was less sweat for a naturalised Aussie). Anna in the new series Return to Paradise Does she relish being a female lead at last, able to set the standards? Its wonderful to set a tone of kindness, when no ones gonna feel they can just shove their hand somewhere, she says. For instance, she makes sure she memorises the name of everyone from cast to crew on the shoot. I think it all goes a very long way and actually makes the show better. An audience can sense if that cast is having fun and, on a show like Paradise, its important that it feels happy. I dont think an audience could necessarily articulate it, but they would feel it if we faked liking each other. The best casting, I say, is the dog, Frankie. Delightful on camera, agrees Samson, but she doesnt necessarily do what you want her to do. The problem was that Frankie didnt like to see anyone being sad. Anything emotional thats when the dog would jump up and lick your face, which is the last thing you need, Samson says, laughing. When youre trying to cry or act vulnerable, the dog would be like, Oh, poor thing. A set so friendly that even the animals were supportive? Maybe it is paradise. Return to Paradise will premiere on BBC One and iPlayer on 22 November at 8pm Picture director: Ester Malloy. Stylist: Ursula Lake. Hair: Sven Bayerbach at Carol Hayes using Hair by Sam McKnight. Make-up: Caroline Barnes using Lisa Eldridge. Red Planet/BBC Studios, John Platt Another year, another set of weird and wonderful health and beauty trends. What is foot Botox, and does slurping sea moss or having salmon DNA injected under your eyes really enhance your looks and wellbeing? I put the most fashionable treatments of the past 12 months to the test. THE A-LIST FOOT TRICK Are you good with pain? asks Natalie OBrien, the Glasgow-based aesthetics expert about to give me foot Botox, the treatment rumoured to be a favourite of Victoria Beckham. Sorry? I ask, having not thought once about exactly how much having Botox injected into the soles of my feet and padded ends of my toes might hurt. For 400, I lie face down and find out exactly how low my pain threshold is. OBrien veers between chuckling and apologising and I veer between yelping and trying not to kick her in the face accidentally. The process only takes about ten minutes but feels double that and lying on my front means I cant see the needle. (Its not a huge needle, but still its a needle spiking into my feet.) Why would Posh Spice or indeed anyone do this? Botox causes paralysis of the nerves in the feet, which means that you can wear very high heels without feeling any ache, hence its red-carpet appeal, explains OBrien. As the needles go into each toe, I feel grateful that I dont have to wear heels often but theres no pain on walking out of the clinic, and for some lifestyles, what a lifesaver this would be. Marks 5/10 but I dont wear heels How much 400 Go to @natalieobrienaesthetics THE FISHIEST TWEAKMENT Polynucleotides are the future, says Dr Ashwin Soni of Londons Soni Clinic. Theyll soon have overtaken dermal fillers completely. For the unaware, polynucleotides are chains of nucleotides the things that build up our DNA. Apparently, injecting polynucleotides stimulates collagen production and makes your skin look more elastic and hydrated. But since we cant extract DNA from other humans, scientists have to look elsewhere. Human DNA is actually very similar to salmon DNA, says Dr Soni, which is why I have two treatments worth of salmon polynucleotides injected under my eyes. The process stings but isnt anywhere near as painful as foot Botox. The treatment also keeps working for six to eight months (filler starts dissolving after 12 weeks, whereas the salmon DNA encourages your own skin cells to reproduce). I definitely look fresher and no, I dont smell like fish afterwards. Marks 8/10 How much 650 for two sessions Go to thesoniclinic.com THE NEW WAVE OF POWER NAPS Waterbeds: so 1970s, you might think. But not at the W Hotel in Edinburgh where its Away Spa has a hi-tech meditative waterbed that vibrates. Apparently, one hour of napping on this is the equivalent of four hours sleep. Its because of the way the sound and movement work together to create a deeper relaxation, says Carly Prociani, the beauty therapist setting me up on the squashy, lagoon-coloured bed. Headphones play binaural beats (music with different frequencies in each ear) and sound vibrations. Soon after my hours session begins Im in a state of half-sleep, which does genuinely make it feel like Ive had a long power nap. Marks 9/10 How much 180 for an hour, which includes an express facial plus scalp and foot massage Go to w-hotels.marriott.com THE BRINY-BASED SUPER BOOSTER Sea moss a type of seaweed is packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Eating it is said to: increase your energy; boost your gut and thyroid health; improve your skin; thicken your hair; and, according to some customers, make your eyes feel more open. It went viral earlier this year when Bella Hadid posted a TikTok clip of herself eating a teaspoon of sea moss as part of her beauty routine. After that, everyone wanted some. I buy Mylas Moss and the jar guarantees it is 100% natural sea moss. Unfortunately, it transpires that 100% natural sea moss has the consistency and taste of liquified Vaseline and therefore eating it with a spoon, as the label suggests, makes you wish it was less authentic. The smell is akin to approaching a lobster tank in a clean but albeit still fishy shop. Much better is the sea moss face cream from Luma Skin, which leaves your skin beautifully soft and only smells subtly aquatic. I still use it every day. Marks Myla: 1/10; Luma: 9/10 How much Mylas Moss is 15 for 340ml and Luma Skin is 20 for 30ml Go to mylasmoss.com; wearelumaskin.com THE DIGITAL DETOX SHOES Wearing more synthetic fabrics and constantly using technology mean we maintain a positive electrical charge much of the time. Imagine a balloon covered in static thats what we are like when we carry around our phones. Undoubtedly, this impairs health. We benefit from having our feet as close to the earth as possible in order to neutralise this charge but, given the barefoot look is quite cavewoman, grounding shoes are the next best option. They work by having conductive elements on the soles and in the stitching, which reduce our electrical charge with each step. I bought a pair of sandals from Rokhz, which would apparently sort out my electrical currents. They looked so lovely that I wore them all summer. Walking in a pair is also supposed to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow and sleep. The more I walked in them, the better I slept but that could just have been because I was tired out from all the walking, right? Marks The shoes: 6/10; the health benefits: who knows? How much A pair of Rokhz sandals is 335 Go to rokhz.com THE RED-HOT FACIAL The Visible Age Reverse facial is a 30-minute It-treatment from skincare brand Guinot. It works like this: an age influx serum (containing hyaluronic acid and 56 other cellular ingredients) is vibrated into action with a phallic-looking machine, which is then moved around your face. The serum is hot. So hot, in fact, that the effect is like dunking your face into a stream of lava. The beauty therapist who performs my facial, Heather Rafferty, has to hand me a pamphlet so that I can fan myself down throughout the treatment. (This is mildly relieving.) The idea, says Rafferty, is that heat increases the communication between skin cells, which produces more, and better-quality, collagen. Its basically for people who dont want to go down the filler and Botox route. You really can see the results even after one session. My face looks younger, plumper, healthier. Do I want to go back? No. Would I? Yes. Marks 10/10 How much 125 Go to guinotshop.co.uk THE GET-SEXY GUMMIES Novomins Turn Me On gummies taste like strawberry and promise to improve my libido by maintaining normal testosterone levels and boosting energy with vitamins B6 and B12, among other things. In an attempt to speed up the effects, I take four instead of the recommended two over the course of two hours. Are you turned on yet? my boyfriend asks eagerly. We will never know. By the time I eat the fourth gummy, Ive realised that overconsumption can cause an unsexily upset stomach, as well as a disappointed boyfriend. Before either happens, I suggest we just go to sleep. Marks 2/10 How much 19.99 for 60 Go to novomins.com Brian Walker is, ironically, not much of a sailor. When I first started my job, I went on a ship to collect some stuff and afterwards it sank. And then, when I went back to fit all the stuff about a year later, it sank again! Walker, 71, is one of two people in the UK handmaking nautical compasses. Hes employed by B Cooke & Son, a 161-year-old marine-supplies shop based in Hull. B Cooke & Son sells products it has bought from elsewhere (maps, thermometers, globes) and products made or adjusted in-house (clocks, barometers, compasses). Other primary staff include Priyanka Perera, the 61-year-old MD who also works on the shop floor; Norman Cammish, a 70-year-old who makes clocks and barometers; and Sylvester Perera, Priyankas 30-year-old son who, in 2016, left his job in IT and retrained under Walker to become a compass maker. (Sylvester is also qualified as a compass adjuster which means he fits compasses on to ships.) I ask Sylvester what its like to work with no one his own age. He says, Theres an abundance of knowledge here, which is a diplomatic answer but, also, true. Sylvester balancing a compass. Walker joined the company at 15 as an apprentice. I already had some skills from school because I liked to strip down engines and stuff like that. I was practically minded, and thats, really, what got me the job. He was trained by the director of the company (a chap called Mr Busby) and his first task was sweeping the floors. Then he was taught simple machining, then cheap metal working, then tapping and drilling, then spraying, turning, milling, fitting until, after five years, he had learnt all the principles of engineering and was able to make a compass by himself. It sounds like it would require a lot of patience, but Walker enjoyed the process. Learning everything in stages was like a story you got interested in it. There were around 20 other staff members when he began at the firm. Several of them moved to work at a nearby aeroplane manufacturer in Brough, where the wages were better. (In 1968, Walker was earning around 2-3 a week.) But Walker wanted to stay at B Cooke & Son. I liked the work because I was doing a bit of everything. Also, Its a small family company and youre not just a number, like you are in a big firm. Walker does not make small compasses that you carry around in your pocket, rather he makes large magnetic compasses to order, which are fitted in ships. Making one of these is a long and complicated process. You need to attach a magnet to a compass float and then screw these two things on to a compass card the disc that has directions on it using an industrial sapphire. (Sapphires are resistant to cracking and scratching.) Once attached, the magnet, float and compass card are fixed to an iridium tipped pivot another needle, that rotates. That structure is then placed inside of, and bobs about in, a brass compass bowl which is itself filled with spirit (industrial alcohol) and sealed with a glass cover. The finished structure goes inside of a binnacle a large, dome-shaped container made from fibreglass. Brian at the lathe. The largest versions weigh 12kg and cost 1,200, but they ought to last for ten years, maybe more, depending on the weather. The price accounts for labour (one compass takes about six weeks to finish) and materials (Walker buys all his components from British suppliers, which is not cheap). The cost of brass, he says, has gone up enormously: Its like flipping gold. In the companys heyday, Walker was making as many as 80 compasses a year, often supplying bulk orders to shipyards. Today hes unsure on the exact number but says its far fewer. Everything is now made to order. (Alongside compass making he also does repairs on sextants, a marine navigation tool.) I assumed this was because of improvements in sat-nav technology, but thats not correct. Passenger ships ferries and cruise boats are still required to have a compass. Its a standby. If your sat nav breaks down you need something that wont break down. A compass doesnt need electricity. It works in any weather. Instead, the dwindling sales are, partly, the result of accountants. It used to be that ship captains would choose their own compasses, and, as they were actually the people having to use them, they valued quality. But then shipyards started relying on accountants to do all the buying [for the ships] because it was cheaper that way and instead of looking at quality, [the accountants] went for cheaper versions. That meant less expensive plastic compasses even if they were ultimately more prone to leaks were picked over Walkers brass ones. Its also because the British shipbuilding industry has, almost entirely, vanished. Walker can remember there once being at least ten shipbuilding firms in Hull alone; now, he says, all of them have closed. And, if a ship is built abroad, well, its kitted out abroad, isnt it? Theres no logical reason for a ferry thats been made in China or Germany to be fitted with a compass thats been made in Britain. Fitting a compass into its domed binnacle Walkers office is on the fourth floor of B Cooke & Sons building and has a gigantic glass window. Through it you can see Hull Minster a grand, stony church more than 700 years old and, in the distance, the River Hull which will lead into the River Humber, which will lead into the North Sea. When I comment on how pretty it is, Walker says the view used to be better. I could see Paull Lighthouse and I could see the river. In fact, the view was so clear that his colleague Alf a compass adjuster who fitted Walkers creations on to ships would be able to wave at him from the boats. Today, the harbour has no ships in it and the view is obstructed by a combination of solicitors offices, a Tesco Extra, a block of luxury flats and a 2,104sq ft office unit that is I notice when I leave to let. I ask Walker what he likes specifically about making compasses and he says, again, that it is the satisfaction of the process: the reward in making an entire object from beginning to end. Later, when I ask Sylvester the same question, he says much the same. Its quite pleasing to make something start to finish. If you look at that compass there, he points to a large one, every part of it we made by hand. You start from absolutely nothing! Then you see all of these parts slowly becoming a compass. Also, its therapeutic, doing the work. Walker has no intention of retiring soon but, when he does, Sylvester will likely be the only remaining compass maker in the country. He hopes, however, that wont be the case for long. I think Brian felt that the knowledge [of compass making] was passed down to him and it was his responsibility to pass it down again. Sylvester feels the same responsibility. Everything he has taught me, I have to teach someone else at some point. So, no, I dont think Ill be the last compass maker. Donald Trumps election victory has ushered in a new boom for Bitcoin, the worlds best-known cryptocurrency. The return of The Donald has also prompted a surge in the value of Dogecoin, a meme-coin, due to its ties with Tesla boss and Trump favourite Elon Musk. Dogecoin, whose name has nothing to do with the rulers of Venice but is a deliberate mis-spelling of dog, has soared by 128 per cent since the result of the November 5 election. Bitcoin has gained just 31 per cent over the same period. Dogecoin was invented a decade ago by two software engineers who decided to create a payment system as a joke, to make fun of the mania for crypto. Meme-coins are digital currencies inspired by characters or themes in internet culture in the case of Dogecoin, a cute Japanese pooch. Dogecoin took off in 2021 when Musk initially also as a prank endorsed the currency, sparking social media hype. It even briefly featured on the shirts of Watford FC. Despite its satirical origins, some people have clearly made serious money from it. But anyone looking to cash in on the current cryptocurrency boom could find the joke is on them. The extremely volatile and unregulated sector has a long history of creating and destroying fortunes overnight. Dogecoin took off in 2021 when Musk initially as a prank endorsed the currency, sparking social media hype Dogecoin is by far the most popular of the meme-coins, with the supposed total market value of all of the coins at 43.4 billion The UKs finance watchdog, the Financial Conduct Authority, has repeatedly warned crypto fans that they should be prepared to lose all of their money. And anyone who falls prey to a scam will have no safety net. Digital currencies fall outside of the UKs consumer protection system and compensation schemes. Dogecoin is by far the most popular of the meme-coins, with the supposed total market value of all of the coins at 43.4 billion, according to crypto pricing website CoinMarketCap. That is more money than the market capitalisation of FTSE 100 defence group BAE Systems. How palantir became top dog on Wall street after election In JRR Tolkiens The Lord of the Rings, palantirs were magical crystal balls used by the Dark Lord Sauron to spy on his enemies. A company that takes its name from the mystical artefacts is one of the biggest winners from the boom in artificial intelligence and has seen its value almost quadruple this year. Palantir Technologies provides data analysis software for companies and government agencies. One of its biggest clients is the US military. The firm landed a $100 million (79 million) contract in September to build AI-powered targeting systems for soldiers. Another major Palantir customer is the NHS, which sparked a privacy row last year after it awarded the firm a 300 million contract to create a platform to handle patient data. The stock has rocketed 289 per cent this year, beating even the gains seen at computer chip maker Nvidia, which has risen by 195 per cent. Palantirs shares have jumped 53 per cent since Donald Trumps election victory. Strong results from the company on election night also helped to lift the stock. Investors hope that Trumps administration will adopt a lighter touch to AI regulation. The latest spike in the coins value came after Trump announced the creation of the Department of Government Efficiency. The initials, eagle-eyed observers noted, form the acronym Doge. The department, whose brief is to sweep away red tape, will be led by Musk alongside Vivek Ramaswamy, a businessman and former Republican presidential candidate. Musk, who sometimes styles himself as the Dogefather, frequently uses his platform X formerly Twitter to promote Dogecoin. Some meme-coins have developed zealous online fanbases that have helped to propel their total values into the billions. Dogecoin is the biggest. Others include Shiba Inu, which is named after the Japanese dog breed that inspired Dogecoin and has a total value of 11.3 billion. Pepe, based on an internet meme of a cartoon frog, has a total market value of 7 billion. For the uninitiated, cryptocurrency is the name given to different types of digital money that use a technology known as a blockchain effectively an online version of an accounting ledger. Because the system only exists on the internet, it does not require banks to process payments. It is stored in digital wallets that are accessed using a digital key or password. Buying crypto is similar to purchasing stocks and shares. US operator Coinbase, one of the worlds biggest crypto exchanges, is registered with the FCA. Other large registered exchanges include Crypto.com and Kraken. Users can open online accounts and deposit conventional money, which can be used to buy crypto in a similar way to a stock trading account. Some share platforms also offer the option to buy crypto. Since Trump's election victory, Dogecoin has soared by 128 per cent and Bitcoin has gained 31 per cent But even if a crypto exchange is registered with the FCA, cryptocurrencies as an asset are not covered by the UKs Financial Services Compensation Scheme or consumer protection rules. Exchanges register with the FCA only to allow them to hold consumers real-world money in trading accounts. This means that if your cryptocurrency is stolen or lost, you will not get your money back. Crypto is not legal tender in the UK, though shops and online retailers can accept it if they want to. The only countries where it is legal tender is El Salvador and the Central African Republic. Donald Trumps election victory has ushered in a new boom for Bitcoin, the worlds best-known cryptocurrency, as well as a surge in the value of Dogecoin The value of crypto is not underpinned by a central bank such as the Bank of England. But the UK took a tentative first step towards official crypto when the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, revealed in her Mansion House speech on Thursday that the Treasury would support the issue of digital gilts, or government IOUs. It hinges on the hope that it will become more popular and that demand from buyers will push up the price. The opposite is also true, however, and cryptocurrencies are subject to massive falls in value if people start to sell. For meme-coins such as Dogecoin, these swings can be wild and occur even faster than with older digital coins such as Bitcoin. Trump has previously promised to make the US the crypto capital of the planet and has floated the idea of creating a strategic Bitcoin reserve. The president-elect has also pledged to sack Gary Gensler, the head of the US financial watchdog, who has led a years-long crackdown on the industry. Due to its lack of regulation, the crypto world has also become awash with scams, with people claiming to have created new Bitcoin rivals to lure in investors. People then spend real-world cash to buy digital coins through the promise of massive and quick returns. After the value of a digital coin has been inflated, those behind a fake project will then suddenly shut it down and disappear, taking the cash with them. Musk, who sometimes styles himself as the Dogefather, frequently uses his platform X formerly Twitter to promote Dogecoin Millions of British households face high energy bills as the Ofgem-set price cap will rise in April, adding 111 onto the typical annual cost for each household. Energy bills are currently 1,738 a year for the typical home, but this will rise to 1,849 from April 2025. That rate applies to a home with average energy use, on a variable-rate energy tariff and paying by direct debit. One way or the other, energy bills will remain high. In our essential guide to how to save on energy, we explain everything you need to know from how your bills are worked out, to whether you can still fix, if a smart meter is worth it and, of course, some energy saving tips. Here's everything you need to know about how your bills are calculated, when you should switch suppliers, and how to cut down on your energy use Can I switch energy providers and fix my bills? There are now fixed-rate energy bills households can switch to that undercut the Ofgem price cap and will save you money. Until the energy crunch arrived in late 2021, the advice was simple: people were urged to switch energy providers regularly to get the best deal possible. The cheapest deals were fixed-rate tariffs, with variable-rate deals normally reserved for households that had reached the end of their cheap tariff and not switched. Affordable fixed-rate deals then began to vanish from Autumn 2021, when energy prices began to rise. Many comparison sites then paused their energy switching services, energy providers stopped taking on new customers, and the common advice was that most people would be better off on deals subject to the Ofgem price cap. This left households lumbered with variable-rate deals, which more than 80 per cent of Britons now have - and it could now save you money once again to switch energy provider. Can you save money on energy bills? Check the best fixed deals When energy prices spiked most households slipped energy price cap tariffs, but it is now possible again to switch to fixed rate energy deals that can save you money. This is Money's recommended partner uSwitch lets you compare the best energy deals for you, based on your home and gas and electricity costs. > Compare the best energy deals with uSwitch* By entering your address and energy usage, you can search for energy deals that can cut your costs and suit how you live. Switching energy provider can also help the planet, if you move to one of the a green deals offering electricity from renewable sources and more environmentally-friendly gas. > Check the best fixed rate energy deals with uSwitch and This is Money* *Affiliate links: If you take out a product This is Money may earn a commission. This does not affect our editorial independence. Money-saving energy tips that work Draught-proofing Some of the best energy-saving advice might sound like something your grandparents would have said, like blocking out draughts where possible. But that is because that advice has stood the test of time and the test of generations living in colder, draughtier properties than we do today. Draught-proof gaps around windows, doors and floorboards by fitting foam strips, plastic seals or brushes. Seal gaps between floors and skirting boards with a simple sealant bought from any DIY store for a few pounds. This small outlay could save you 30 a year in energy bill savings and make your house feel much warmer. Reduce the flow rate on your boiler A simple tweak to your combination boiler settings could save you more than 100 a year. Boilers have a flow temperature the level they heat radiators to. These work more efficiently if the temperature is set to 60C. However, boiler flow temperatures are often set much higher than that, according to research from charity Nesta. Lowering the flow rate on your boiler from 80C to 60C saves nine per cent of total gas use, or 75 a year for an average home. Settings tend to vary from boiler to boiler so it is worth digging out the manual to find out how to reset yours. You should also make sure your boiler is regularly serviced and consider boiler insurance, with just one fifth of home insurance policies covering boilers. Fit thermostatic radiator valves Your radiators may have little numbered dials attached use them. These are called thermostatic radiator valves and they set the heat each radiator gives out. Setting them to the level you need them can save you energy, and therefore money, as you can control which rooms are being heated and by how much. The cost saving depends on how you use these valves but some energy firms claim these can cut energy use by up to 40 per cent. It's worth noting that modern thermostatic valves are a substantial improvement on older ones - and if you get them fitted, learn how to use them properly. Extra padding: Loft insulation can save households a serious wedge on energy bills Insulate your home Insulate your property If you can afford to, upgrading or installing insulation can really help save money. However, this does come with an upfront cost which might cancel out any cost savings for a while. What is the energy price cap? The energy price cap is set by watchdog Ofgem and was created to limit the prices gas and electricity providers could charge those on their default variable tariffs. The current price cap is 1,738 a year for average use, but this will rise to 1,849 from April. The price cap was designed as a safety net for those who did not switch providers to find cheaper bills, but as costs have soared and the energy market has seized up it has become a consumer lifeline. The price cap is set by Ofgem and adjusted quarterly. Ofgem says that about 22 million households are on energy price cap tariffs. It is worth checking to see if you can get a better deal elsewhere, or to see if your current supplier can move you to a rate that would suit you more. If you have an electric car, it is worth exploring what you supplier could offer - as some do special discounted time rates. Don't get your hopes up, do the maths carefully, beware expensive fixes and watch out for any charges to leave. How do I ensure my meter readings and bills are right? If you do not have a smart meter, giving meter readings to your supplier is the only way to be sure you pay only for what you use and your bills do not end up way out of line. Without meter readings your supplier will estimate how much energy you are using and charge you based on that - this can mean big bills suddenly landing as you fall behind. If your last bill was larger than expected, there could be many legitimate reasons why you could be asked to pay more: Check it: If your energy bill seems wrong, take meter readings and check with your energy firm Your energy supplier has increased prices Your usage has risen, for example, due to cold weather Your bill is based on an actual meter reading, rather than an estimated reading Unfortunately though, it can be common for errors to occur when submitting your meter reading, and they can prove costly if not dealt with swiftly. How to challenge energy bills you think are wrong If you suddenly get a big bill, the most important thing to remember is that consumers are protected against back billing of more than a year by Ofgem rules. This means that you can't be charged for gas or electricity used over a year ago if you were incorrectly billed, or not correctly informed beforehand. This also includes situations where a supplier could increase your direct debit because it was set too low originally, but the rule does not apply if you have behaved obstructively or unreasonably, preventing accurate billing. If you do receive a back bill then you should get in touch with your energy provider, letting them know that you are protected by the back billing rules and will only pay for the energy you have consumed within the last 12 months. But, if you receive a bill for energy within the last year, and you are worried that it is incorrect, you should contact your energy provider as quickly as possible to resolve any potential issues that may be the cause. If you are unsure if your bill is correct, it could be worth calling your provider's customer service team, who will be able to talk you through your bill in more detail. If you do not get a satisfactory answer you should write to your supplier, via post or email, explaining why you think your bill may be incorrect, along with an up-to-date meter reading and any evidence to back it up. Ask them to provide you with evidence of meter readings and rates being charged for different periods. Ensure you keep a record of all evidence and communication too. How do I read my electricity meter? There are three types of standard electricity meters that you could come across in your home: single rate meters, two rate meters and dial meters. For single rate meters, you should read the numbers from left to right. You should not include any numbers in red, or after a decimal point, when you submit them to your energy provider. The reading for this old-school dial meter would be 33823: they can often be the most confusing for customers For two rate meters it can get a little more complicated. Two rate meters are usually used for economy 7 or economy 10 tariffs, which charge different rates of energy in off-peak hours, usually one for your day usage and one for night usage. If you have a digital two rate meter, you should be able to change your settings to show you your 'rates', with Rate 1 for your peak energy consumption, and Rate 2 for off-peak. Dial meters can be the most confusing type of meter, but they are relatively simple to read once you know how. The dials move in alternating clockwise and anti-clockwise directions, and you should read them from left to right, ignoring any numbers in red. When the pointer is between two numbers, record the lower number, and if it's between 9 and 0, you should record the number as 9. When the pointer is directly on a number, check the next dial to the right. If the dial on the right reads 8 or 9, then you should lower the reading for the dial with the pointer directly on the number. If you have a smart meter, your energy provider should be receiving regular meter readings automatically, though you can change the frequency of your meter readings by speaking to your provider or online, or by changing the settings on your device. Smart meters should also be regularly checked to make sure they are sending the right information - making sure the meter tallies with your bills. If you are worried that you may be paying too much for your energy, it is always worth submitting an additional meter reading and asking your provider to confirm how much you should be paying. For single rate meters, you read the numbers from left to right, but you shouldn't include any numbers in red, or after a decimal point, when you submit them to your energy provider Can I get money off my bill for energy saving? Ensuring every device you do not need to use is turned off completely could still save you money on your energy bill, but you will need to stay super vigilant to reap the rewards. Ultimately, most energy saving tips do not make a huge difference on their own, but if you try to do as many as you can, you will save money - often helped by using less water too. They won't make much a huge dent in your bills, but as the slogan goes, 'every little helps'. What help is available if I am struggling to pay my energy bills? If you're struggling to pay your energy bills, or are worried you may miss a payment, you should speak to your energy firm. Many have dedicated teams to help you and can work out payment plans for big bills. Others offer grants for low-income homes to help with their energy bills. Most energy providers should allow you to change from a prepayment meter to a direct debit tariff or credit meter for free, as long as you are not in debt with your energy provider Can you ditch your prepayment meter? If your home currently has an old-style prepayment meter, you can ask your energy supplier to replace it with a new credit meter, or a smart meter, for free. A prepayment meter is a type of gas or electricity meter that requires you to pre-pay for your energy before you use it. They are often more expensive for energy use. You have a prepayment meter if you have to 'top up' a prepayment card, key or app to pay for your gas or electricity. You can switch to a credit meter, which allows households to pay a set amount a month for their energy usage, or make the switch to a direct debit tariff. However, its worth noting that your supplier usually won't replace your meter or change your smart meter setting if you are currently in debt to them. If you are in a rented property, you do not need your landlord's permission to change your meter, though they could ask you to change your meter back when you move out. If your current energy supplier charges for prepayment meter removal or suggests you are unable to switch from a prepayment meter, you can consider switching to another supplier. Prepayment meters are being phased out by the smart meter initiative, which aims to offer a smart meter in a bid to make it easier for households to top up their energy and to help them better understand how they consume energy throughout the day. PROS AND CONS OF A SMART METER Pros Cons Sends automatic meter readings Concerns over user data privacy Accurate, up to date energy bills Doesn't guarantee long-term savings Easy to track what the energy you use Constant access to monitor energy use Could reduce carbon footprint Long wait time for free installation Gain access to cheaper tariff options Not available with every energy provider Easy to switch suppliers and keep your smart meter Limited data options in rural areas How do I get a smart meter and will it save me money? Energy companies and the Government are encouraging customers to make the move to smart meters. Available at no upfront cost, they offer a number of benefits over traditional meters from automatic readings, more accurate energy bills, and real-time reports on your current energy usage. They also unlock special energy tariffs with discounted rates for offpeak use. However, many customers are unconvinced and reluctant to move to them. This has led to delays in the rollout and rows over smart meters, especially as they are seen as a potential threat to privacy and can be unreliable. Your choice: Energy firms are promoting smart meters, but the devices are not mandatory Nonetheless, the great advantage of a smart meter is that your bills should be accurate, and there are millions of satisfied households already using one. To make the switch, you should speak directly to your current energy provider to discuss your eligibility and the tariff options that a smart meter can offer. It is worth remembering though that smart meters are not mandatory. What is a standing charge? A standing charge is a fixed, daily figure that you pay for your energy, no matter how much you use, even if your property is empty. The charge covers the costs from maintaining the energy networks, wires and pipes that carry gas and electricity across the country to your home, keeping your home connected to the energy network, and meter readings. It can also cover the costs of government initiatives that help vulnerable households and reduce CO2 emissions, as well as recouping some of the debt left over by failed energy suppliers. Breakdown: The electricity standing charge pays for things like customer service, and the cost of running the power network and operating meters If you have a dual fuel energy bill, youll pay an electricity standing charge and an gas standing charge. If you pay by direct debit these charges are currently capped at 60.99p and 31.66p respectively per day, though this can vary depending on where you live. Standing charges are also included with prepayment energy tariffs and smart meters, which will usually be shown in the total you see on your in-home display. There are some energy deals with no standing charges, but these typically charge higher unit rates to make up the difference. Regulator Ofgem is pressuring energy firms to launch more deals with no standing charges, to give consumers more choice. How is my energy bill calculated? Energy bills are made up of a number of costs covering what companies do (and how they make a profit) as well as the gas and electricity actually used by a household. The wholesale market price of gas and electricity accounts for the biggest portion of the average energy bill at around 50 per cent. The next largest chunk of the typical customer's bill, around 18 per cent, goes towards providing and running energy infrastructure, such as pylons and gas pipelines. Policy costs currently account for around eight per cent of your bill. This covers energy company obligation schemes, which pay to upgrade home insulation for households on low incomes; as well as renewables obligations, which require suppliers to get some of their electricity from renewable sources. Energy companies are currently able to claim operating costs equating to around 220 of the annual average price-capped energy bill. The Government also takes 5 per cent of the typical energy bill in VAT. Tenants will compete over fewer homes and pay ever-higher prices thanks to Labour's attack on landlords, according to a closely-watched survey of property experts. The latest survey from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors reported that the number of available rental properties for let was dwindling while demand from renters rose. One said that rents 'must rise' as a result of the increased stamp duty for landlords announced in October's Budget, while another said 'The cult of buy-to-let is dead'. Some of the agents surveyed gave their opinion ahead of the 30 October Budget, meaning the readings could get more dismal in future. In the Budget, landlords saw further unwelcome changes including an increase on stamp duty on buy-to-lets and second homes . These buyers already faced a 3 per cent surcharge above and beyond what those purchasing a property to live in currently pay. However, from 30 October that went up to 5 per cent, adding thousands of pounds to the cost of buy-to-let and second home purchases. Gap: The chasm between the supply of properties available for let and rising public demand from renters continues to expand, according to Rics members Rachel Reeves claims this will free up some 130,000 homes - as more homes will now be bought by owner-occupiers, rather than landlords. However, while that may be a good news for aspiring homeowners, it also means fewer homes in the private rental sector. Many Rics members were critical of Labour's Budget for making the situation worse for renters, not better. Andrew Oulsnam of Oulsnam lettings agents in Birmingham said: 'The problems in the rental market remain, with too many tenants chasing not enough property. 'The Budget will make it worse, rents must rise as a result.' Neil Foster of Hadrian Property Partners in Hexham added: 'Rental stock continues to dwindle, applying further upward pressure to rent levels. 'Quite where the Ivory tower dwellers in Westminster expect most private tenants to live is a mystery.' Daniel Wiltshire, an actuary and independent financial advisor at Wiltshire Wealth says a number of his buy-to-let clients have now decided that property investment is no longer for them. 'The cult of buy-to-let is dead,' said Wiltshire. 'I've had several meetings with would-be property investors who have decided to pull out and look at stocks and shares instead. 'The national psyche is hard-wired to pour money into bricks and mortar, but the recent increase in stamp duty, along with other incremental tax rises over the past 10 years, has made even the most die-hard property enthusiast question the wisdom of putting all their eggs in a single, highly taxed basket.' Rents predicted to rise: Graph shows how forecasts by Rics members have changed Drop in landlords buying new properties Woes for renters persist as rental properties continue to disappear from the market while many would-be investors no longer want to buy new ones. All over the UK, Rics members were reporting fewer landlords searching for new properties, but in the North West and Midlands this was particuarly prevalent. Will Ravenhill, of Readings Property Group in Leicester added: 'Many more landlords are looking to sell as they are sick of successive Governments' attacks on the private rented sector.' The Labour Government is bringing forward a renters' rights bill to end Section 21 'no-fault' evictions, which is set to become law by summer 2025. John Chappell, a Rics member based in Skegness in Lincolnshire said: 'The market is still very much unstable due to growing concerns over extension of tenants' rights. 'Increasing costs and admin will lead to less rented accommodation being made available.' Slide me Fewer landlords coming to market: The graphs show the net balance as a negative, meaning more Rics members are seeing fewer new landlord instructions in their local areas What will happen to rents? More Rics members, comprising of letting agents and surveyors, said they had seen tenant demand rise between August and October than those who said demand had decreased. During that same time, they also said the number of new rental homes coming to market reduced. The majority of agents and surveyors expect rental prices to be driven higher in the months and years ahead, due to this mismatch between supply and demand. In every UK region, more Rics members said rents would rise over the coming three months than those who said rents would fall. This was most overwhelmingly the case in Wales, the Midlands and Yorkshire and the Humber. Colin Townsend of John Goodwin letting agents in Malvern, Worcestershire said: 'Rents continue their upward rise. This trend looks likely to carry on as there was very little encouragement in the Budget to persuade landlords to invest in the rental market.' Daryl Woodward of Peninsula Estates in the Wirral near Liverpool said there were 'fewer instructions, as landlords exit the market, rising rents and tenant demand, with less property to let.' During the last four years the average rent on a property in the UK has gone up by 34 per cent, according to Zoopla. Some cities have seen steeper rent rises of more than 40 per cent. Over the next five years, Rics members are expecting rents to rise by around 5 per cent each year on average. The North-South divide is, as readers of Mrs Gaskell well know, nothing new. The UK is one of the most geographically unequal countries in the developed world on some measures. Attempts to iron out regional disparities have been going on since the 1930s. The Thatcher government was accused of dismantling heavy industry without providing sufficient support for the communities that relied on steel and coal. By contrast, levelling up and wooing Red Wall voters was a cornerstone of the Conservatives' 2019 successful election campaign. In February 2022, the Tories produced a white paper setting out 12 steps for improving performance and reducing inequality. All good stuff, apart from the fact nothing much has happened. If Rachel Reeves is to get the growth she needs after hammering the nation with tax rises, this has to change. As MP for Leeds West and Pudsey, she should be well aware of how unevenly prosperity is spread and of the North's wasted potential. London is on a separate plane to the rest of the country. It benefits from a concentration of resources and from being the focus of decision-making. Change of direction: As MP for Leeds West and Pudsey, Rachel Reeves should be well aware of how unevenly prosperity is spread and of the North's wasted potential Getting on your bike, as recommended by Norman Tebbit, is not the answer: property prices are prohibitive for many. In Germany, France and other developed countries, this phenomenon is much less pronounced: in the US, Austin in Texas is the fastest growing conurbation. Sir Nigel Wilson, chairman of Canary Wharf group and a north-easterner, points out that if Britain's secondary metropolitan areas such as Manchester, Birmingham and Glasgow had grown at the same rate as London in recent decades, then the UK economy would be 120billion richer. People in the regions often feel remote from the City of London and feel it does nothing for them. The credit crisis provoked distrust towards traders and bankers that still lingers. Mass bank branch closures the most visible manifestation for most people of the financial services industry has not helped, as it has removed another point of direct connection. Yet the City, nowadays a metaphorical construct rather than a physical location, is key to regenerating the regions. An executive at the UK arm of French bank Societe Generale told me proudly last week of its support for the Net Zero Teesside Power and Northern Endurance Partnership to create the UK's first decarbonised industrial cluster. That is just one example. There is plenty of capital available to fund growth throughout the UK. Some 6trillion is stashed in pension funds and various other forms of savings scheme. The Chancellor's plan to create a handful of mega funds out of more than 80 existing local authority pension schemes sitting on 360billion of assets is a good one, provided she can actually pull it off. Larger funds will be better able to invest in the infrastructure projects the country needs and in other higher risk, but potentially higher reward areas such as tech start-ups. It is also an opportunity to engage savers with their pensions. If people knew some of their savings were being channelled into, say, a project to improve the local rail service or to back start-ups creating jobs in their area, it might encourage them to pay in more and create a virtuous circle. Pension providers could tell savers much more about where their money is going and generate a sense of excitement about projects around the country. Instead, their communications are incomprehensible and tedious. They must try harder. Prince Harry may have lost the 'upper hand' in his battle to keep his immigration documents secret after Donald Trump's thumping election victory and now faces a 'fight' to remain in the US, experts told MailOnline today. Beverly Hills attorney Alphonse Provinziano, a leading lawyer with years working on international family law disputes for the rich and famous, believes the Duke of Sussex could spend the next four years of a Trump presidency battling deportation. Harry has lost the 'protection' of the Biden administration, according to the Heritage Foundation. The Washington-based conservative think tank is fighting in the courts to have the Duke of Sussex's visa documents released so they can see if he admitted his historic narcotic use. Mr Provinziano. who runs the LA firm Provinziano & Associates, told MailOnline that while Trump is in the White House - and the Heritage Foundation refusing to lie down - Harry faces a genuine battle to stay in the US - even though his wife is American and his children are dual citizens. 'One unlikely loser of the 2024 US presidential election is Prince Harry. Trump has repeatedly said that he thinks Harry should not be allowed to stay in the United States since he "betrayed the Queen" and possibly was not forthcoming about his past drug use on his visa application', he said. 'Prince Harry's lawyers will be busy over the next four years, as Trump has made it quite clear that if he returned to office, he would seek to have Harry removed from the country'. Donald Trump will be determined to deport Prince Harry if it emerges he lied on his visa application about drugs, experts have said Harry and Meghan have bought a home in Portugal. One insider has suggested it could be related in part to hostility from the Trump family In a court decision handed down in September, US District Judge Carl Nichols said the court agreed that Prince Harry's 'privacy interest outweighs any public interest'. Experts believe the change in administration at the White House could change that 'The Biden administration had shielded Harry, and a lawsuit by the Heritage Foundation seeking more information was dismissed, but Trump may have the upper hand if it turns out that Harry was not forthcoming about his past drug use on his visa application, although he's admitted it in his autobiography and various interviews over the years'. Harry moved to Montecito with Meghan Markle and Archie in 2020 but his 2023 memoir Spare reveals he took cocaine, marijuana and psychedelic mushrooms as a younger man. Visa applicants must by law declare whether they have taken drugs. If it is found that Harry misrepresented his prior drug use on his visa application and a disclosure was required, 'this could be grounds for the government to pursue his deportation', Mr Provinziano said. He added: 'The Trump administration had vowed to remove those not here lawfully and Prince Harry may be on the chopping block.' Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet are dual citizens of the United States and the United Kingdom. But the family lawyer added that wouldn't automatically allow Harry to stay in the country if he had misrepresented information on his visa application. 'If it is revealed that Harry misrepresented himself on his application or was granted special accommodations generally unavailable to others with similar histories, there could be a public outcry,' Mr Provinziano said. 'It may appear unfair, especially considering the many people who seek lawful entry to the United States and are subject to strict considerations.' There have been claims that the couple's decision to buy a home in Portugal could be related. An insider told the Daily Mail's Richard Eden: We can expect to see more of Harry back in Britain in years to come. The same source had said this was in part because the Sussexes had been making increasingly desperate efforts to extend olive branches across the Atlantic. It followed a string of hostile comments from the Trump family. It came as the Heritage Foundation said the political change in Washington DC means it is more likely to win its long-running bid to see the Duke of Sussex's immigration records, which until now has been blocked by the outgoing president's administration. Speaking to DailyMail.com after Trump's historic victory, Nile Gardiner, Director of The Heritage Foundation's Margaret Thatcher Center for Freedom, said he believes there is now a 'strong possibility' the think tank will be able to successfully appeal the decision. Harry's visa application was first called into question after he admitted in his 2023 memoir to using various drugs recreationally something he would've been required to disclose in immigration documents. Trump has previously stated that he 'wouldn't protect' Prince Harry if he became president again A Trump presidency means the Heritage Foundation could now win its long-running bid for Prince Harry's visa records to be made public The right-wing think tank claimed Harry's admissions could have made him ineligible for entry to the US and sued the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) after the agency, which oversees immigration, refused to disclose a Freedom of Information request for Harry's files. In September a judge ruled that the files are to remain private for now - a decision Heritage is now appealing. 'I do think there's a strong possibility that this could happen. It's the president's prerogative,' Gardiner said. 'Also the new Homeland Security Secretary could order a review of Harry's immigration application. 'There are multiple things that could happen but it would be in the best interests of the American people if the Trump administration releases Prince Harry's records for public scrutiny and Harry should be held to account'. According to Gardiner, the Biden White House 'has bent over backwards to protect Prince Harry and that protection is going to come to an end after the inauguration'. 'Releasing Harry's immigration records would send a very strong message about applying the rule of law equally to everyone. 'There's a clear public interest in their release. If Harry has nothing to hide he should support the release of the records', he added. Gardiner predicted the files will be made public in the next year and that there would be 'growing calls' to do so from the Republican-controlled Congress. The feud between Trump and Harry dates back to the 2016 election when the former president called Meghan 'nasty' after she called him 'divisive' and 'misogynistic'. Speaking in February Trump said he 'wouldn't protect' Harry if he won a second term because he 'betrayed the Queen'. 'That's unforgivable. He would be on his own if it was down to me,' Trump said. Harry talked about using drugs such as cannabis, cocaine and magic mushrooms in his 2023 memoir, 'Spare', as well as on his Netflix TV series Asked about it in an interview with Nigel Farage, Trump said he would take 'appropriate action' if Harry was found to have lied. Trump's son Eric has been more blunt and has said his father would 'happily' deport the Duke - and that Britain wouldn't want him either. Chris Edelson, a professor of government at American University, told DailyMail.com that 'of course' Trump could remove Harry. 'Not in a normal system but ours is not normal anymore,' he said 'The President can do whatever they want as long as people go along with it'. But Michael Wildes, a New York based immigration lawyer who worked with former First Lady Melania Trump to get her parents a green card, said that the former President's views about immigration were more shrewd than people might think. He said that Trump had a 'very sophisticated view of clients who hail from significant interests and certainly a member of the royal family would be handled more in a sophisticated fashion'. 'He could allow Harry to stay as a favor for King Charles,' he said. 'He may just pardon the Prince from any domestic crimes. Judge Carl Nichols (left) ordered the Department of Homeland Security to provide more information about why his immigration details should be kept secret in March. The Heritage Foundation's Nile Gardiner spearheaded the freedom of information request The judge's ruling states that Harry's memoir had included 'intimate details of his life' 'I've worked with Mr. Trump personally on very delicate matters in the past relating to immigration and he literally has a Trump card in these matters'. Wildes, whose father was John Lennon's immigration lawyer and managed to get him to stay in the US in 1975 despite the authorities starting deportation proceedings over his UK marijuana conviction, said that Harry would have just a few days to get out of America if he was on a visa that was revoked. But if Harry is on a green card he could face a special immigration trial where he would be entitled to a 'very strong defense', Wildes said. Melissa Chavin, a UK-based US immigration lawyer, said it could be even easier for Trump to kick out Harry from the country if he was in the US on an A-1 visa, which is for heads of state. Chavin said: 'All Trump has to do is tell his Department of State we don't accept what the British government says about Harry. 'They could say well this is only for working royals. 'They could say he's involved in espionage or terrorism or it's counter to foreign policy for him to be doing drugs and be in the country. 'They can make him persona non grata - they can do whatever they want and the determination is non reviewable. Nobody can look at that. 'If Trump wants to be super vindictive he could do that. That's the scary thing that could happen to Harry'. Home Office officials are being hoodwinked by fraudulent asylum seekers who are falsely claiming to be from war-torn Eritrea, a Mail investigation can reveal. In several video calls, seen by this newspaper, migrants brazenly boasted about how they obtained asylum in the UK by pretending to be persecuted by Eritreas authoritarian regime. Instead, they come from Ethiopia, the neighbouring - and much safer - East African country. MailOnline discovered a network of thousands sharing huge swathes of training material to convince case officers they are from Eritrea - because it has a 99 per cent success rate for asylum claims. Despite being a country of just 3.6million, Eritreans have made up the fourth-largest group of asylum seekers in the UK in the last three years. One Ethiopian migrant, Michaele Abraha, an Uber driver living in London, has racked up tens of thousands of views on TikTok where he brags of how he was given asylum in the UK by pretending to be Eritrean - and teaches others how to do the same. Ethiopian migrant Michaele Abraha (pictured), an Uber driver living in London , has racked up tens of thousands of views on TikTok where he brags of how he was given asylum in the UK by pretending to be Eritrean Pictured: An abandoned tank left wrecked by a village in Eritrea - the remnants of a three decades long conflict with neighbouring Ethiopia The Home Office has said it has now launched an investigation into Abraha after the MoS submitted evidence of his claims. Robert Jenrick, the former Immigration Minister, last night described the Mails bombshell findings as a national security emergency. Mr Jenrick said: Sir Keir Starmer has surrendered to the people smuggling gangs. Instead of beefing up plans to remove illegal boat migrants in a matter of days, as my amendments supported by colleagues would have done, he granted them an amnesty. Now its open season and these chancers are taking our country for a ride. This is a national security emergency and the British public are rightly sick of it. Its got to be stopped. The investigation today reveals how: Abraha tells migrants to pretend to be under-18 to help speed up their asylum claim - and explains how to act like a child; In one Telegram group with 3,500 members, Ethiopians are sharing training guides for how to pretend to be Eritrean - including photos and documents on notable buildings, different regions, currency and traditional dress; One Ethiopian migrant said 12 other Ethiopians were granted asylum using the blueprint of his asylum claim. Eritrea has been called the North Korea of Africa because of its indefinite conscription into the army, which the UN says amounts to forced labour or even slavery, as well as its torturous detention system and systemic repression of basic freedoms. Pictured: Abraha teaches other migrants how to hoodwink the Home Office by pretending to Eritrean in TikTok videos Pictured: Border Force officials escort migrants into Dover Docks in Kent earlier this week Eritrea has been called the North Korea of Africa because of its indefinite conscription into the army (Pictured: members of Eritrea's armed forces on parade) But while parts of Ethiopia have suffered conflicts, poverty and severe droughts, it is Africas fastest growing economy and itself hosts more than 823,000 refugees, many of whom are from Eritrea. The UK government says that refugees allowed to stay in the UK must be unable to live safely in any part of their country without fear of persecution. Abraha, who lives with his family in a Southwark council flat, proudly flaunts his Ethiopian identity to his 16,000 TikTok followers while admitting to claiming asylum in Britain as an Eritrean. Posting as Miki Abrere, he hosts weekly TikTok sessions teaching Ethiopians how to file fake asylum claims. For our investigation, MailOnline translated hours of footage from Abrahah spoken in Amharic, a language spoken in Ethiopia but rarely by Eritreans. In one call, Abraha tells one Ethiopian who feared she may have made a mistake in her screening interview which could reveal she is not Eritrean to say you were nervous and unprepared and you were misquoted. He also tells viewers to attend events organised by Eritreans and document your activities with Eritreans to help their asylum claims. In another blatant example of deception, Abraha explains in one video how to pretend to be under-18 to help speed up an asylum claim. He said: The best thing to do is to let your hair grow and put the tip of your longer hair down to the front side. Some guys with a baby face use this method. Pictured: A screenshot from a WhatsApp group set up to give migrants tips on how to get asylum in Britain by posing as refugees from Eritrea Pictured: Three boys sit on a wall peppered with bullet holes in Ghinda, Eritrea The Home Office has said it has now launched an investigation into Abraha after the MoS submitted evidence of his claims Your acts also matter. If you dont act like a child, you may be caught. Someone told me that after they were placed in a hotel as an underage migrant, when they went downstairs to get a meal or to the reception, they would put a blanket on their body and hotel staff treated them as a kid. In other live video calls on TikTok, the Mail found six other Ethiopians who admitted to making successful asylum claims as Eritreans. From 2010 until March 2024, nearly 35,000 asylum claims were lodged where the applicant stated they are from Eritrea. This represents close to one per cent of the countrys population of around 3.6million. Between 2018 and 2024, asylum was granted to 5,222 applicants to people claiming to be from Eritrea. That was more than the 4,882 figures for Syrians, despite Syria having a population of around 22.1million. Both countries have the highest success rates, with 99 per cent of applications granted. Alp Mehmet, chairman of the Migration Watch UK campaign group, said: Its no surprise that this old ruse is still in wide use. Make your way to the UK illegally, destroy anything that could identify you, make up a story that cant be checked, and youre home and dry. I dread to think how many in the backlog now being granted asylum or permission to stay have lied about who they are and where theyre from. We really have lost our senses. A Home Office spokesman said: We are fully committed to ensuring our asylum system is not open to abuse and protection is granted only to those who genuinely need it. We are looking into these claims and will always seek to revoke refugee status where evidence shows it was granted under false pretences. Abraha did not respond to repeated requests for comment. A Los Angeles house located high in the Hollywood Hills has a storied history that involves a midcentury modern architect, murder and movies - not to mention it is shaped like a UFO. Although it wasn't intended to look like an extraterrestrial spacecraft, this didn't stop locals reporting they had seen one when the home hovering above Mulholland Drive first debuted in the 1960s. The home was famously featured in the film 'Body Double', with replicas of the property also appearing in series like 'The Simpsons' and The Jetsons. Yet while the house - designed by architect John Lautner - does have an uncanny resemblance to something out of an alien movie, the shape of the home was constructed to deal with a more logical problem: uneven ground. Although Chemosphere wasn't intended to look like an extraterrestrial spacecraft, it didn't stop locals from reporting that they saw one when the home hovering above Mulholland Drive first debuted in the 1960s The home was famously featured in the film Body Double. And replicas of the home has appeared in animation series as well, like The Simpsons and The Jetsons The property sits on a 45-degree incline, according to SF Gate. Its original owner, Leonard Malin, was gifted the plot of land by his father-in-law in the 1950s, and the aerospace engineer was determined to build something magnificent, the outlet reported. He hired Lautner to build what would become known as the Chemosphere. 'To [Lautner], it was just completely logical to build it this way,' Alan Hess, an architect who wrote a book on Lautner, told SF Gate. The single-story home sits on a circular piece of concrete that is buried underground, according to a YouTube channel that follows Lautner's work. A hollow concrete pillar runs up from the center, connecting to the base of the home where eight iron support pillars branch out to the edges of the house. Additional support beams spread out from the center with smaller ones in-between, the home's blueprints show. The original owner, Leonard Malin, was gifted the plot of land by his father-in-law in the 1950s and the aerospace engineer was determined to using it and building something magnificent It cost $140,000 - the equivalent of $1.5 million today - to build the home The domed roof and underside of the home is made of Chem-Seal plastic panels, that were provided for free with the promise the home would be named after its product, according to SF Gate. The hollow tube in the center of the foundation transports water and gas into the home. It cost $140,000 - the equivalent of $1.5 million today - to build the home, Hess told SF Gate. A unique fact about the house - which has been billed the 'world's first space-designed home' - is that it's hard to get into, with a cable car needed to bring people up to the property. They can also enter through a small bridge. Dr. Richard F. Kuhn, who purchased the home sometime in the 1970s, was tragically murdered in 1976 in the home Pictured: The Chemosphere looms above the neighboring streets that wind around the Hollywood Hills The remoteness of the home makes it hard to maintain, so much so that Malin left in 1972 after losing his aerospace job, according to SF Gate. Dr. Richard F. Kuhn then purchased the property sometime in the 1970s, but was tragically murdered inside the home in 1976, the outlet reported. Garland Danny Campbell, who is believed to have been the doctor's lover, and Alfred Toliver entered the home and the latter fatally stabbed Kahn in his bedroom. They then stole his car and robbed him. The intruders were later found guilty of first-degree murder. After this, the home was rented out for parties over the next two decades until Benedikt Taschen acquired it in 1997. By this point it was in need of restoration, with the German proprietor telling the LA Times the the home 'looked like a rundown motel.' When Benedikt Taschen (pictured) acquired the home in 1997, it was in need of restoration. The German proprietor told the LA Times at the time that the home 'looked like a rundown motel.' 'It had been rented out for 10 to 12 years; it was like the ultimate party house,' he told the publication. The Chemosphere remains a private residence today and is not open to the public for visits. A much-loved former GP has won a major court battle against a father and son who cut off his electricity in a bid to force him out of his own home. Kenneth Doust, 95, sold his rural five-bedroom home to the investment company Riveaux Management Group, run by Timothy Byrne and his son Riley, for $2.2million in December 2020. His Sunnyside farmhouse boasts more than 180 acres of lush pasture in Central Tilba on NSW's south coast and was originally built in the 1890s. It has sweeping views out to the ocean across Tilba Tilba Lake, set against a dramatic backdrop of the imposing Gulaga Mountain. The sale was negotiated with a licence allowing Dr Doust to continue to live in a section of the property for $1 a year, with the condition that he had to 'continue to personally reside permanently in the residence'. If he didn't, the investment company could serve a termination notice on the licence. Dr Doust served for six months as a medical doctor during the Vietnam War and had later worked as a doctor at Bathurst Gaol during the infamous riots when prisoners caused $10million worth of damage. He later became the medical director at Medibank, which later became Medicare, in Canberra before semi-retiring to Narooma where he was a much-loved local figure. Kenneth Doust (pictured), 95, sold his rural five-bedroom 'Sunnyside' property in Central Tilba on NSW 's south coast, in December 2020 to an investment company for $2.2million It appears Dr Doust was able to live in his home while also travelling to a property in nearby Narooma where his disabled wife lived. But in early August, Dr Doust was sent a three-page 'notice of termination' letter. 'It asserted the plaintiff had deliberately falsely sought to convey that he was living permanently in the house when, in fact, he was living at a property in town, 15minutes driving time from the house,' a judgement published by the NSW Supreme Court stated. The letter branded Dr Doust a trespasser and another letter a month later said he was in breach of the licence by allowing others to stay at the property. Things escalated last month when the investment company ordered Dr Doust's electricity to be cut off. The retired GP rang his energy company but their electrician was denied access to restore the power by the investment firm. Dr Doust, who has been using a small generator ever since, launched urgent court action to have his power restored and a ruling the licence was not breached. The NSW Supreme Court ultimately agreed with him, with Justice David Hammerschlag describing Dr Doust in glowing terms as 'entirely unshaken'. 'An attack (such as it was) on his credit failed,' Justice Hammerschlag observed. 'To my observation, despite his very advanced years, he retains full mental acuity. Plainly, he was a truthful witness.' By contrast, Judge Hammerschlag gave a scathing assessment of Mr Byrne. 'Mr Byrne was an unpersuasive, unconvincing, manifestly self-serving and less than frank witness,' he observed. The sale was negotiated with a licence entitling Dr Doust to live in a section of the property (pictured) for $1 a year, with the condition he 'personally reside permanently in the residence' The farmhouse, was originally built in the 1890s and boasts over 180 acres of pasture with sweeping views out to the ocean across Tilba Tilba lake (pictured) The court heard that throughout June Mr Byrne and his son conducted 'seven separate random spot checks on the (Dr Doust's) overnight habitation patterns'. On each of the occasions, Dr Doust was apparently living in the property in town with his wife. Mr Byrne told the court that he visited the home up to 50 times between June and August and only saw Dr Doust there around five times, and claimed neighbours also said he was rarely present. But Dr Doust said his daughter, who is a registered nurse and the full-time carer of his wife, had gone away in June, which meant he had to spend several nights looking after his wife. Judge David Hammerschlag described Timothy Byrne (pictured) as a 'an unpersuasive, unconvincing, manifestly self-serving and less than frank witness' 'Each day, however, he went back to Sunnyside to attend to his usual tasks, such as reading his emails (his only access to his emails is at the house), to get clothes for the next days and to get food for his dog,' the judgement noted. 'He says that, when the carer returned to [his wife's home], he returned to sleeping at Sunnyside.' Dr Doust, who was awarded an Order of Australia for services to medicine in 2005, also told the court he was worried the Byrnes might try to block his access to the property by erecting a fence. 'In all the circumstances, his concern is understandable,' Judge Hammerschlag observed. He added: 'Mr Byrne denied that his intention was to get rid of (Dr Doust). I disbelieve him.' Judge Hammerschlag said he believed Mr Byrne had tried to 'entrap' Dr Doust in order to evict him from the property. Dr Doust (pictured) served for six months as a medical doctor during the Vietnam war and had later worked as a doctor at Bathurst Gaol during the infamous riots when prisoners caused $10million worth of damage. He later became the medical director at Medibank, which later became Medicare, in Canberra before semi-retiring to Narooma where he was a much-loved local figure He said he did not believe Mr Byrne's claim that he was merely trying to ensure compliance with the licence. 'His motivation was to bring the licence to an end. His stated motivation is inconsistent with his evidence that he did not want to 'tip' (Mr Byrne) off,' Justice Hammerschlag observed. 'He did not want the plaintiff residing in the house he wanted him gone.' The court found Mr Byrne was not entitled to issue the notice of termination to try to evict Dr Doust. 'I find that the plaintiff was personally residing permanently in the house, Justice Hammerschlag ruled. 'The requirements of physical presence and an intention to reside there permanently were satisfied. 'Absence for periods, even long periods, is not necessarily inconsistent with permanent residence.' Attempts were made to contact Mr Byrne and his son for comment. UFO sightings and alien abductions are often reported by folks in the boondocks without any witnesses around to back up their stories. Not for Linda Napolitano, who was in 1989 taken from her New York City apartment and beamed onto a spaceship by extraterrestrials, as 23 onlookers bore witness, it is claimed. Napolitano's story has gripped UFO enthusiasts for decades. Now, the incident has exploded onto the small screen and into the courtroom. A Netflix show presents the abduction as an 'elaborate hoax,' and Napolitano has fought back with a lawsuit accusing the streamer of defamation. Her complaint reopens a rift between a husband-and-wife duo of alien researchers and raises tough questions about those who say they've encountered visitors from space. As millions of viewers stream The Manhattan Alien Abduction, and lawyers duke it out in court, concerns about who is being honest will doubtless intensify. While the US government is increasingly open to discussing aliens, it's unclear whether those with abduction stories are telling the truth, or suffering from false memories, mental health issues or just making it up. Napolitano, a stay-at-home mom, stands by her story that on the night of 30 November 1989, three aliens kidnapped her outside her 12th-floor Lower Manhattan apartment. Linda Napolitano, 77, has stuck by her story of being abducted by aliens from her Manhattan apartment in 1989 They made her levitate out her window and into a spacecraft hovering above the city, where they carried out experiments on her, before returning her to her bedroom, she says. But this astonishing event wasn't her first brush with aliens, she claims. Thirteen years prior, upstate in the Catskills, she recalls finding a strange bump on the side of her nose. This was later identified as a mystery foreign object. Several months before the 1989 incident, Napolitano says she wrote to UFO researcher Budd Hopkins about that incident in the Catskills, and joined his support group for abductees. Hopkins believed the object in her nose was implanted by aliens. An X-ray purportedly shows the object, but, when a specialist came to check Napolitano's nose, it could not be found. After the 1989 incident, Hopkins scoured downtown for people to corroborate Napolitano's story. About 20 people witnessed it; some even said they saw Napolitano floating above her building, it is claimed. Hopkins documented this in his book Witnessed: True Story of the Brooklyn Bridge Abduction. But he used pseudonyms for the witnesses, casting doubt on their authenticity. Among the purported witnesses were two guards for then-UN chief Javier Perez de Cuellar but these testimonies have also been questioned. Napolitano insists they were all genuine onlookers who saw the night's mind-boggling spectacle. The Netflix recreates Napolitano's story of being levitated out her window and into a spacecraft hovering above the city The docuseries presents archive footage of Napolitano pointing up to where she says the abduction took place UFO researcher Budd Hopkins' hypnosis sessions with Napolitano have been called into question 'If I was hallucinating, then the witnesses saw my hallucination,' she told Vanity Fair in 2013. 'That sounds crazier than the whole abduction phenomenon.' Hopkins' then-wife, Carol Rainey, a filmmaker and UFO researcher, was also embroiled in the case. She initially believed Napolitano and they became friends, she said, but over time she grew skeptical. Rainey says Hopkins interviewed abductees under hypnosis in search of suppressed memories. But the results of his sessions with Napolitano were not credible, she said. The three-part Netflix docuseries features interviews with Napolitano, 77, who now lives in Tennessee, and Rainey, who died in 2023. It also features archive footage of Budd, who died in 2011. In the show, Rainey, then divorced from Budd, said her ex-husband had 'lost his objectivity' and may have guided Napolitano's comments under hypnosis. She vowed to 'continue to ask questions' about the suspect abduction story. In her appearances, Napolitano maintains she told the truth. Only a 'sociopath' would fabricate such a grand narrative, she says, while accusing Rainey of debunking her in a bid to 'get even with Budd.' Napolitano's story has gripped UFO enthusiasts for decades Napolitano (left) and Carol Rainey started out as friends but fell out over the abduction story. An X-ray purportedly shows a mystery object in Napolitano's nose, but there are questions over its authenticity She's in part backed up by her son Johnny, who appears in the documentary, though his likeness is obscured. 'Theres no way I believe she would want to make anything like this up,' he says. He recalls seeing three 'beings' in the family living room, in what he calls a 'terrifying' experience that left him feeling 'hopeless.' 'I just try to erase it from my life,' he says. According to Napolitano, the aliens were not done with her family after that night in 1989. She says they came back years later and targeted her family, giving them nosebleeds. Napolitano, Hopkins' estate, and others filed the lawsuit against Netflix, Rainey's estate, and others at New York Supreme Court, two days before the show started streaming on October 30. The complaint seeks an undetermined amount of monetary damages for six claims, from fraud to defamation, and breach of covenant of good faith and fair dealing. Another request to stop the show from screening was not granted in time. The complaint says Napolitano 'was not remotely close to be like or appear as the person that is on screen' and that she 'never had any bone to pick' with Rainey. Napolitano 'was set up as such a villain for purposes of controversy and conflict, all of which was a patently and deliberately false portrayal to support the false narrative of the truth,' it adds. Netflix did not answer our request for comment. Napolitano told DailyMail.com that she could not 'take any risks' by discussing her abduction amid the lawsuit. 'I don't talk about the case at all,' she said. The glamorous blonde who brought down a monster who preyed on girls as young as nine under the guise of being a religious prophet has spoken out on how she infiltrated his cult to end his sickening reign. Christine Katas worked for years to persuade authorities to take action against Samuel Bateman who had moved in in a bid to fill the void after fundamentalist Mormon Warren Jeffs was sentenced to life in prison. Now, talking exclusively to DailyMail.com, Katas, 64, has told how she brought about the false prophets downfall and led to him pleading guilty to more than 50 counts ranging from sex trafficking to child rape. Bateman is due to be sentenced on November 25. The plea deal means he will receive between 20 and 50 years behind bars. It was difficult and emotionally intense, Katas told DailyMail.com at her home in Colorado City, Arizona. And even scary sometimes.' But she said she knew all her work had been worth it when Bateman was eventually arrested. Primarily I was relieved because things were getting more intense and more scary, and I did not know what his next move would be because he had become so unhinged. It took a tremendous emotional toll on me because I love these people. I knew they were victims when they did not know they were victims.' Christine Katas, 64, works with women and children from the FLDS through her charity Voices for Dignity Katas infiltrated Samuel Bateman's new offshoot FLDS cult after gaining the trust of his wives and child brides Katas and her husband Tolga, 58, moved to Colorado City from Las Vegas in 2016. They worked to help women and girls in the FLDS through her charity Voices for Dignity. But then in 2019 they suddenly found themselves living next to a nightmare world of child brides, mass orgies and suffocating control brought about by Bateman, the new prophet in town. Bateman had quit the church after renouncing his allegiance to Jeffs and was running a cult of his own. Katas decided she had to make it her business to find out who Bateman was and how he had amassed 20 wives 10 of them minors and, critically, whether he was sexually abusing the young girls. There were red flags from the beginning, but I didn't have any hard evidence that there was physical abuse going on until later, she told DailyMail.com. When that became clear, I immediately went to law enforcement. What Katas discovered was shocking. She found he repeatedly raped 'brides' aged as young as nine and ordered his followers to participate in sordid hotel room orgies. Katas tipped off police and the FBI to his activities repeatedly, only to be told that hard evidence was needed for them to arrest him Bateman settled in Short Creek, on the border of Utah and Arizona settling the women and girls into a pair of shabby homes dubbed 'the green house' and 'the blue house' Charging documents allege that Bateman even raped a male follower in front of his children to 'bond' with him and ordered his adult brides to give sex demonstrations to the younger girls so they would know how to please him. The depraved 48-year-old also invited followers LaDell, 45, and Torrance, 36, Bistline, who were later convicted for their part in the conspiracy in October, to have sex with his brides including one occasion that saw Torrance anally rape a 13-year-old girl. Until now, Katas's identity and role in Bateman's downfall had been kept a closely guarded secret even after his arrest in September 2022 when he was collared towing a U-Haul trailer with three of his child brides inside through Flagstaff, Arizona. Torrance Bistline, who was convicted along with his brother LaDell in October, for having sex with the brides At that point, Katas had been inveigling her way into his inner circle for more than 18 months and had tipped off police and the FBI to his activities repeatedly, only to be told that hard evidence was needed for them to arrest him. In the end, she succeeded in getting what she needed providing the authorities with tapes showing Bateman interacting with the women and girls and turning over an admission from one of the self-proclaimed prophet's followers that sickening sex abuse was rife in his cult. 'My husband and I made the decision to spend as much time with these people as we could,' Katas explained. 'We were hoping someone would come forward with information because law enforcement needed a victim. 'In the meantime, we were gathering what evidence we could.' Like his victims, Bateman was raised in the FLDS a secretive offshoot of the mainstream Mormon church. It broke away when the LDS abandoned polygamy and moved to the Short Creek area that includes Colorado City and neighboring Hildale, just over the Utah state border in the 1930s. FLDS leader Jeffs, now 68, had amassed 78 wives, many underage, by the time he was arrested and jailed for life in Texas on child sex charges in 2011. He is not eligible for parole until 2038. Despite his conviction, for the FLDS, Jeffs remains in charge and has repeatedly been caught issuing orders to his followers from his jail cell in Palestine, Texas. He was also stripped of his property which included virtually every home in Hildale and Colorado City, and a 46-bedroom mansion with the words 'Pray and Obey' emblazoned on the chimney stack that has since been turned into a women's refuge. Until 2019, Bateman was loyal to Jeffs. But then he claimed to have had a vision he declared himself a prophet, and started up on his own. That, and his attempt to bribe his daughter to have sex with him in exchange for $50 and a bag of Doritos, spelled the end of his first marriage. 'He was never an FLDS prophet,' said Esther Bistline, 47, a current member of the church and a relative of the Bistline brothers. 'He was an FLDS person at one time, but when his wife Lydia left him, he left the FLDS, and he was no longer FLDS when he started his little cult situation.' Even so, it didn't take him long to begin acquiring new wives and followers from among the ranks of the FLDS, among them the Bistline brothers and a Nebraska businessman who has since turned witness for the FBI. Esther Bistline, 47, a current member of the FLDS, said after Bateman started his cult after his wife left him when he tried to bribe his daughter into having sex with him The Bistline brothers' office on the Utah side of Short Creek. After joining the cult they gave Bateman their wives and daughters to marry including LaDell's nine and 10-year-old daughters Court papers obtained by DailyMail.com show Bateman almost immediately began demanding the trio's wives and daughters as brides among them LaDell's wife Josephine, who is now serving 15 years in prison for her role in the scheme, and their nine and 10-year-old daughters. He 'married' his first child bride in March 2020 and, despite his disgust at her wetting the bed, proceeded to repeatedly anally rape the nine-year-old girl. Other 'wives' followed and by the time of his arrest, Bateman had 10 adult and 10 underage brides all of whom were subjected to his sexual abuse. I knew they were victims when they did not know they were victims For much of 2019 and 2020, Bateman had lived between Colorado City and Lincoln, Nebraska, but ultimately settled in the remote Arizona town housing the women and girls into a pair of shabby homes dubbed 'the green house' and 'the blue house' in charging documents. It was there that he and his wives met Katas who had grown close to the FLDS community through her charitable work and her efforts to help them remain in their homes after the federal government began selling off Jeffs's property empire. 'Sam came across as a very overzealous religious person who used his testimony about Godly things as a way to get social status,' Katas said. 'In my opinion, he was motivated by the benefits that all cult leaders want, which is money, power and sex. 'When you have this position in any sort of Mormon offshoot when you are a prophet, you can abuse it. 'And he did that to get more money, more sex, more power and control over people. He did not use it to benefit his believers or to benefit the world. 'It was all about how it could benefit him.' Katas and her husband Tolga, 58, spent all the time they could at Bateman's home because they knew he couldn't abuse his wives when they were present The message is clear. Warren Jeff's's 46-bedroom mansion with the words 'Pray and Obey' emblazoned on the chimney stack that has since been turned into a women's refuge From the start, Katas said she noticed red flags not least the fact Bateman had 20 women living with him, including underage girls. She wasn't the only suspicious one: in July 2020, the Arizona Department of Child Safety visited Bateman's shabby compound and asked to speak with the nine-year-old. Warren Jeffs is serving a life sentence in Texas for his abuse of children Initially, Bateman refused to allow them entry and then oversaw the interview with the child even feeding her answers. Like Katas, Josephine Bistline's mother Josephine Barlow also spotted the signs even calling the police in a bid to protect her granddaughters. But without anyone prepared to talk, there was little the cops could do. 'I had to stay involved with them,' Katas told DailyMail.com. 'I wanted to keep my eye on what was happening with the children, and I wanted to be a resource for them, for the adult women, if they needed anything as well. 'It became my life just trying to make sure that they were okay.' She told DailyMail.com that despite inevitable repercussions if they were found out, she and her husband spent as much time at Bateman's home as they could, knowing that he couldn't carry out his campaign of abuse while they were present. It would take another year before Katas gained the trust of enough of Bateman's wives and followers to obtain the smoking gun in the form of an admission from one of his inner circle. Naomi Bistline was one of the five wives who were arrested and charged with kidnapping after they attempted to take the underage wives back from a child safety group home Bateman had 10 adult and 10 underage brides all of whom were subjected to a sickening catalog of sexual abuse at the cult's shabby compound Bateman was arrested and later sentenced to 20 to 50 years in prison after taking a plea deal She also obtained video of Bateman at home being sung to by his wives and other footage which she then provided to the authorities. 'Eventually, a very brave woman did come forward to me and disclosed some of the crimes that had been taking place,' Katas said. 'I'm not going to say her name, but she is a hero, and she is the reason the entire investigation could finally get rolling. 'It was frustrating that the investigation didn't go faster, but the police were following the book and doing what they had to do to get the case right. 'That is what took so long, and that is why we had to stay involved with these people until that victim had the courage to come forward.' Even after his arrest, Bateman continued to control his followers including telling his adult wives to reset their phones to the factory setting in a jailhouse phone call to hide whatever evidence they might contain. At his behest, six of his adult wives also went to the Arizona Department of Child Safety group homes where the child victims had been taken and spirited them away to Spokane, Washington a move that saw them slapped with kidnap charges and jailed. Although his followers maintained their innocence until found guilty at trial, Bateman chose to make a plea deal admitting his guilt in April. In July 2020, the Arizona Department of Child Safety visited Bateman's compound to speak with the children but were obstructed by the 'prophet' which raised suspicions Katas got the evidence after a wife confided to her the sexual abuse that was happening and the advocate was able to obtain videos to hand over to the police According to Katas, who has continued to support Bateman's adult and child brides, none of the young girls have chosen to return to the FLDS and are instead trying to build new lives outside of the church. She and Esther, who Bateman also tried to claim as a wife, now hope he receives the maximum 50-year term. 'It's been shocking to me to realize the things that he's done,' Esther told DailyMail.com. 'I didn't personally see it, but through the indictments and things in the court, I came to the realization what he did, and it just makes me sick. 'I just can't even believe that someone that I knew growing up turned into this kind of person.' Katas added: 'With the immense amount of damage he did to individuals and families, I wouldn't be satisfied with anything less than 50 years. 'That is what I hope he gets because aside from committing all these crimes, he did it in the name of God. 'He did it to innocent people whose beliefs he preyed upon so he deserves the maximum.' A Chicago tax attorney has been accused of wreaking a secret 'campaign of abuse and terror' against his wife, as revealed in filings unearthed in the wake of her death. The body of Caitlin Walch Tracey, 36, was found 'pulverized' and missing a foot in the stairwell of her partner Adam Beckerink's luxury South Loop condo on October 27, according to court documents seen by DailyMail.com. Chicago Police Department cops rushed to the scene and detained Beckerink, 46, who had reported his wife missing the day before. They released him after 48 hours without filing any charges. In the weeks that followed, Tracey's heartbroken parents, retired real estate developer Andrew Tracey, 69, and college professor Dr Monica Tracey, 65, battled against Beckerink for custody of their daughter's remains. Beckerink, a former partner of international law firm Duane Morris who had been married to Tracey for six months, argued that he had the rights to her body as the surviving spouse. But her family hit back on November 6, accusing him of wreaking a 'campaign of abuse and terror' against their daughter during her final months, including allegedly throwing a glass pickle jar at her head and pouring vodka on her wounds. According to the Traceys, their daughter had been in a relationship with Beckerink from October 2022 until September 2023, but the couple never lived together or had children. At some point after September, they got back together, and married in a private ceremony on April 8, 2024 which did not involve any of Traceys relatives. Caitlin Tracey (pictured) died after falling down 24 flights of stairs on October 27. Her body was at the center of a dispute between her family against her husband of six months Amid the acrimonious wrangling for control of her body, her parents accused Beckerink of manipulating their daughter, of purposefully isolating her from her family and being responsible for her tragic and highly suspicious death. To support their argument, the Michigan-based family presented a since-rescinded petition Tracey made to Cook County Court a year before she died in a desperate attempt to obtain a restraining order against her husband. Pictured: Adam P Beckerink In her October 4, 2023 filing, Tracey detailed three examples of horrific attacks by the tax attorney. Tracey said that on July 11, 2023, at around 3pm, Beckerink stripped her naked and attacked her at her three-story home in New Buffalo on the banks of Lake Michigan, where her parents said she lived to be close to them and away from her partner. (Beckerink) physically abused me by throwing a pickle jar, which struck me on my head, punching me, pushing me, pulling my hair, dragging me by my clothes, and stripping me out of my clothes,' Tracey wrote in the petition seen by DailyMail.com. '(He) also poured Vodka on my body, which burned my wounds, and would motion as if he was going to hit me with the alcohol bottle. Tracey said she managed to escape on foot, before her husband later took her to hospital for treatment to an 'open head wound'. Pictured: Caitlin Tracey's father, retired real estate developer Andrew Tracey (second left), 69, holding hands with his wife and her mother, college professor Dr Monica Tracey, 65 Pictured: the Traceys speaking with their lawyers in court earlier this week Tracey fell down 24 flights of stairs in Beckerink's high rise (pictured) on the 1200 block of Prairie Street in South Loop, severing her foot during the descent In a second alleged incident on August 21, 2023, Tracey once again only narrowly escaped a brutal attack by her husband, this time at his plush apartment in Chicago's Grand Luxury Condos where she was later found dead. At around 8am they had an argument, and Beckerink began launching a foul-mouthed tirade of abuse against his partner, according to her filing. Tracey alleges he 'verbally abused' her by calling her a 'cheater', a 'wh***', a 'piece of s***, 'liar' and a 'b****' before escalating to a physical assault. '(He) physically abused me by dragging me by my ankle, strangling me, suffocating me, slamming my head against a cabinet, slapping me, punching me, putting my head in a headlock, and dragging me away from the door to prevent me from leaving' Tracey wrote in her petition. He then allegedly stole her 'keys, wallet, iPad and phone' to prevent her from leaving or seeking help. Tracey said she escaped again by 'fleeing on foot', this time to the nearest police station. Cops went to Beckerink's apartment but he refused to open the door. Tracey detailed an alleged third incident which unfolded in the room where she was staying at the Ritz-Carlton hotel in Chicagos Magnificent Mile neighborhood on September 20, 2023. She said her husband stormed into her room around 5.30pm before hurling abuse at her and this time attempting sexually abuse her. Tracey did not give context about why she was at the hotel or go into detail about the sexual abuse, but said she filed a police report for domestic battery. Her parents said it was around this time that Tracey temporarily ended her relationship with Beckerink and opened up to them about the alleged violence. In their petition for control of her body, the Traceys said she told them Beckerink had been emotionally, psychologically and physically abusive to her including holding her hostage and brutalizing her so badly she needed medical treatment. She also said he had been trying to contact her approximately 20 times a day either demanding to see her, or to verbally abuse her over the phone. I believe if Beckerink knew I was here trying to get an Emergency Order of Protection, he would try and stop me, or I would be at risk of further abuse, Tracey wrote in her bid for the restraining order. But Traceys parents said Beckerink found out and threatened to sue her for defamation and libel - so she withdrew her petition based on fear. Though Tracey never secured the restraint, Berrien County Prosecutors Office charged him on January 13, 2024 with four counts of larceny, interference with electronic communications and domestic violence against Tracey. On August 19, 2024 they added two counts of resisting and obstruction, interference with electronic communications and more counts of domestic violence against Tracey, according to her parents. Tracey's body was at the center of a dispute between her family against her husband But the charges came too late for Tracey. Her body was discovered by Beckerinks condo building manager, after a traumatized resident reported finding a severed foot in the stairwell. Cops attended the grisly scene at 7.20pm on October 27, and told the family that based on the condition of the remains they determined that Traceys body fell approximately 24 floors. Beckerink has been removed from his role as partner at law firm Duane Morris Her devastated parents said they were told that based on the height of the fall, their daughters body was pulverized and her foot was severed from her body. According to a police report, Beckerink was detained and questioned but later released. Traceys parents said in their petition officers told them at the time that he was the primary suspect. 'An unidentified adult female was found unresponsive at the bottom of the stairs at a residence at the above location,' Chicago Police told DailyMail.com this week. 'She was pronounced on scene. Detectives are conducting a death investigation, pending autopsy results. 'No one is in custody and there are no updates at this time as the investigation is ongoing.' Cook County Medical Examiner's Office is conducting an autopsy on Traceys remains. Officials told DailyMail.com this week that the results are pending. Traceys parents are still going through the agonizing process of piecing together their daughters suffering via Freedom of Information requests to find any further documents she filed with police. But they secured one major victory this week, when Judge Brian Berger ruled that her remains would be released to them rather than to Beckerink. The Tracey family's attorneys, Mitt Drew and Andrew Cunniff, released statements on their behalf celebrating the judge's decision. 'We are incredibly grateful for Judge Berger's expedited decision,' said Drew, of Butzel Long in Michigan. 'The ruling allows Caitlin's family not only to honor her life with the final services she deserves, but also to grieve appropriately, supporting them in their journey through this difficult time.' 'Today's ruling in Michigan is a critical step in the family's efforts to protect and preserve Caitlin's legacy,' added Cunniff, of Galarnyk and Associates in Chicago. 'The family will continue to fight for Caitlin until she is laid to rest with the respect and dignity she deserves.' The Traceys said they would honor their daughter with a Catholic funeral mass and burial. Caitlin Tracey (pictured) died after falling down 24 flights of stairs on October 27 Tracey's family said her husband filed a police report on October 26 to make a missing person report, and the next day her body was found 'directly below' his apartment (pictured) Duane Morris, the Chicago law firm where Beckerink worked as a partner, told DailyMail.com he had been 'swiftly removed' in response to the abuse allegations. 'This is a shocking and tragic case, and we send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Caitlin Tracey,' the firm said. 'Our firm was not aware of the domestic violence and other allegations against Adam Beckerink asserted in various legal proceedings until recent media accounts of her death. 'Once we confirmed key facts, the Partners Board swiftly removed Adam as a partner of Duane Morris LLP. He is no longer associated with our firm. 'This is a tragedy for all involved. Our deepest condolences go to Caitlin Tracey's family. Counseling will be available for Chicago office employees this week. 'Out of respect for the legal process, it is not appropriate for the firm to speculate about the ongoing investigation, other than to say we hope justice will be served and we stand ready to assist if we can be helpful to investigators.' DailyMail.com has contacted Beckerink's lawyers for comment. The roar of the engine, along with the force of the powerboat's fiberglass hull as it skimmed along the surface of the ocean at 125 miles an hour, made Willy Falcon feel as if the fillings in his teeth would shake out. He remembered the first few times he ever piloted a machine like this. Back then, his whole body tightened up his jaw clamped so hard that it was sore for hours afterward. He had learned over the years that to handle the speed, you had to channel the controlled energy of a Zen master. Total relaxation was required, the ability to maintain physical and mental equilibrium even while the world zipped by at speeds rarely tested by man. Cocaine also helped. There were few highs as invigorating as snorting a line of yayo before turning over the engine and hitting the blue horizon. In his career as a trafficker, Willy had mastered the sea and used it to facilitate his business. In some cases, his organization had used these same high-speed powerboats they raced in the waters around Miami to transfer kilos of cocaine under cover of darkness. The Seahawk racing operation was in many ways a glamorous cover for the cocaine operation. Willy Falcon, his brother Gustavo (Tavy), Sal Magluta and other members of Los Muchachos were champion powerboat racers on the national circuit. They were daring and highly skilled, and the entire operation was great for morale. It also supplied them with a fleet of boats and drivers that made it almost impossible for the US Coast Guard to catch them. Willy and Sal were champion powerboat racers on the national circuit. The crew, from left to right: Juan 'Recut' Barroso, Sal, Willy, Tavy, and seated, Ralph 'Cabeza' Linero Given the fortune amassed by Willy in the 15 years he ran the business which began with cocaine but branched off into a half dozen other ventures, including the powerboat racing empire he could be forgiven for thinking it would last for ever. And while it did last, the money flowed in cash that was sometimes stored in shoeboxes, pillowcases, suitcases hidden away in closets, in an underground vault, and in secret offshore bank accounts. Federal prosecutors estimated that, by the time they caught up with the so-called Cocaine Cowboys, they'd imported 75 tons of pure cocaine with a street value over $2.6 billion. But according to Falcon, those numbers are low. He calculates that he and his partners smuggled closer to 700 tons with a street value today over $50 billion, making them the preeminent cocaine smugglers of the time. Portrayed as Cuban American playboys, high school dropouts, and amateurs who stumbled onto a hot property and exploited its popularity in the 1980s, Falcon and his closest associates have never talked about or been interviewed on the subject until now. I interviewed Falcon extensively from March 2021 four years after he was released from having served 27 years in federal prison to September 2023. His willingness to talk opened the door for many others from Los Muchachos to come forward and cooperate. What is perhaps most astonishing about their story is that, contrary to the Hollywood portrayals of the underworld - Scarface, Miami Vice, and their ilk - and their contemporaries like Griselda Blanco, they became the most successful smugglers in the narcosphere using very little violence. Dinner, Cocaine Cowboys style. From left to right: Ileana Garrudo, Tony Garrudo, Amelia Falcon, Tavy, Willy, Willy's wife Alina, Isabel Magluta, and Sal The luxury boats and Armani suits from Miami Vice were right out of the Willy and Sal playbook Instead, they capitalized on the fact that Miami is a Cuban city built and run by Cubans. The entire system of justice from cops to jail personnel and prosecutors has as its workers members of the exile community. So Willy and Sal had prison guards, cops, and private investigators on their payroll. They would run checks on all new employees because, as Willy told me: 'When you are bringing new people to work with your organization, believe me, you have to be extremely careful. Because this guy could be working undercover for law enforcement. 'You need to take every precaution; you're not only putting yourself at risk but also everyone in your organization.' But the people Falcon relied on most were his pilots. Los Muchachos had a crew of four or five they could count on, most of whom were experienced smugglers with mysterious histories as covert operators with the CIA. Willy and Sal purchased planes for the pilots, who made regular runs to Colombia, Venezuela, and the Caribbean to pick up multiple-kilo shipments and deliver them to a secret landing strip in central Florida. As their operation grew, Willy bought a remote estate with its own private mile-long runway. Regular payments to the local sheriff's son ensured a blind eye was turned to the shipments as they flew in. One of the pilots I spoke to, Ralph Linero, worshipped Willy. Los Muchachos were portrayed as Cuban American playboys - and they dressed the part. From left to right: Tony 'Bamba' Garcia, Tavy Falcon, Roberto Solis, Willy Falcon, Sal Magluta, Benny Lorenzo, Frank Ocando Paz, Tony 'El Cuno' Garrudo Willy Falcon and his family photographed in 1992 in the visiting area at the Miami detention center. From left to right: Alina, Jessica, Will Jr., Willy, and Aileen. This Polaroid is one of the last photos taken of Alina before she was killed in a mugging gone wrong Willy gave his inner circle of partners a gold Falcon pendant on a heavy chain, representing their bond as blood brothers 'That's why I'm with him,' he told me. 'He always said, 'Whenever we have a problem, somebody didn't pay or whatever' his philosophy was, 'Okay, so the guy didn't pay, he owes us five kilos. So we're going to go and kill him? Why? We can't take his body to the bank. And now we've got a fight with his brother.' 'You know what Willy would do? He would call the guy and say, 'Here's two more keys. You go and sell it and pay me back.' 'That guy would be kissing Willy's feet. I know at least two occasions where people advised him, 'Let's f***ing hit them. Let's make 'em pay.' And Willy would say, 'Nope, nope, nope. Bring them over here. We're gonna kill 'em with kindness.'' Once the product was safely in the US, Los Muchachos used a fleet of semi-tractor trailers to ship kilos across the country - from Miami to LA, New York, New Jersey, San Francisco and elsewhere. Often, the trucks were loaded with produce from legitimate companies to disguise the shipment. The same trucks were also essential to the shipment of cash in the opposite direction hundreds of millions of dollars hidden inside a cargo of drywall that was packaged together, with the insides hollowed out to serve as a compartment for bills. He described the system to me like this: 'For example, John in San Francisco. Let's say we make a deal for ten kilos. He'll pay me for five up front, and then the other five I will give to him on credit. He'll drive the cocaine from Miami to San Francisco. 'It can take a week to get there, a few days to sell the merchandise, then another week to drive back. Too much time. So, it's my job to make it easier for John. 'We had the cars and later the semitrucks. I said to him, 'Here's what I'm gonna do. I'm gonna give you the ten [kilos] up front, and I'm going to transport the cocaine to San Francisco.' 'I facilitated the transportation, made it easier for my client. That's why everybody wanted to work with us.' Over the course of more than a decade, billions of dollars in cocaine profits were transported around the US like this. Willy (left) and his brother Tavi (right) grew up in Cuba, before the dark cloud of Fidel Castro forced their escape to Miami Sal (second left), Gustavo (center) and pilot Ralph Linero (second right) After continuing their operations for years - even though at times they were under indictment and living on the lam - Willy and Sal were eventually captured in 1992. Falcon was arrested in Ft Lauderdale and Sal in Miami Beach. A dedicated group of prosecutors built what seemed like an overwhelming case. But the two defendants were able to depend on something that the prosecutors still did not fully comprehend: the ability of Willy and Sal to once again manipulate a sense of loyalty within South Florida's Cuban exile community. The narcos were able to 'fix' the jury with not one or two dirty jurors, but five, one of whom said they could depend on her for a not guilty verdict for no fee at all (the others received payments roughly around $100,000 each). The not guilty verdict by the jury shocked Miami and the US Justice Department. Eventually, the pair were prosecuted under separate indictments. Falcon reached a plea deal and was sentenced to 25 years in prison. Magluta went to trial and was found guilty, receiving a sentence of 205 years. While he was in prison, Willy's wife of 15 years, Alina, was fatally shot by a pair of teenage muggers outside a hair salon in Coral Gables, Florida. The pair had been together since they were teenagers. His daughter Aileen recalled of the time: 'He was devastated, but I could see that he was trying to be strong for us. He wanted to reassure us that, as a family, we werent going to fall apart. We were still going to be together; we would always be together. 'He said to us, Remember what a beautiful person your mother was. She was special. She went down fighting. Let her memory give you strength.' Tavy Falcon, who escaped apprehension at the time of the Los Muchachos indictment, disappeared with his wife and two children and remained at large for 24 years. In 2017, he was captured and given a sentence of 11 years. His time was cut short by COVID, and in 2023 he was released under house arrest. By the time I interviewed these men, they were haunted for having screwed up the lives of their families and contributed to a business characterized by addiction, violence and so much destruction. Even so, a few carried within their souls a crooked sense of pride. Falcon and his closest associates have never talked about or been interviewed on the subject until now (pictured: Falcon with TJ English) Sal Magluta, pictured in Los Muchachos' heyday (left) and more recently (right). He is still serving his sentence in a high-security prison Gustavo went on the run for 24 years. He was eventually captured in 2017 (right) and given a sentence of 11 years In a business characterized by murder, mayhem and betrayal, they had remained true to a code. They did the time, came out at the other end, and were dealing with the consequences of the life they had chosen. Their journey involved a series of ups and downs, from the Armani suits, the nightclubs, boats and private jets of the cocaine era to the cold concrete floor of a prison cell. As for Willy, now in his early 70s and deported from the US, he had a moment of new-found fame when he featured in the 2021 Rick Ross release 'Little Havana'. But in the main, he lives a quiet life, in a modest apartment in an anonymous Latin American country. Memories come to him in a rush, he says, like a movie with the scenes shown out of sequence: his idyllic upbringing in the town of Alquizar, in La Habana Province. Then the dark cloud of Fidel Castro. Then there is early Miami, where shell-shocked Cuban exiles arrived to reinvent themselves as the most capitalist of the capitalists, followed by the years of unparalleled success; the bacchanalia of weekends in Vegas, blowing half-a-million dollars. Finally, there is the long blur of half a lifetime behind bars, the negation of everything that had come before, and the bitter pill that mostly what remains in the end is shame. From the book THE LAST KILO: Willy Falcon and the Cocaine Empire that Seduced America by T.J. English. Copyright 2024 by T.J. English. To be published on December 3, 2024 by William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers. Reprinted by permission. A luxury Turkish restaurant loved by Towie stars wants to turn a decrepit shed on its car park into a nine-bedroom dormitory after it was raided by immigration officers. The Eyna, in Basildon, was opened late last year in place of a car dealership and is frequented by Towie stars including Saffron Lempriere, Jordan Brook, Junaid Ahmed, and Freddie Bentley. But despite the glam restaurant quickly becoming a hit across Essex, it just as rapidly came onto the radar of the Home Office. The restaurant, which had converted its adjacent storage outhouse into nine-bed housing without any planning permission, was raided in a joint operation by the Home Office, Essex Police and Basildon Council in July. Shocked customers looked on as officers gathered up to 15 staff including waiters, chefs and barmen and questioned them. Five people were arrested, with one individual facing further detention. Days later, the restaurant sought retrospective planning permission for the 270sqm warehouse which sits in the restaurant car park, requesting a change of use from being a 'storage outbuilding' to 'part storage and part staff rest and sleeping rooms' for restaurant staff who 'can not travel or will need to stay overnight'. The accommodation, which has no kitchen or living facilities, was deemed by a council officer as an 'extremely poor quality living environment' and the application has been refused. While it is not confirmed whether the immigration raid was related to the outhouse, and whether or not it was being used to house illegal workers, the Home Office said in relation to the raid that it was determined to 'clamp down both on illegal working and the exploitative treatment of illegal workers'. The Eyna has said it has 'undergone a complete change in ownership and business operations' and 'current operations are entirely separate from any prior conduct'. Towie's Junaid Ahmed has taken a liking to the lounge bar and grill, having visited several times including with fellow Towie star Freddie Bentley The Eyna Lounge Grill and Bar was hit by an immigration raid conducted by the Home Office in July this year The decrepit warehouse that was turned into a nine-bed accommodation Planning documents submitted to Basildon Council show a floor plan consisting of nine-bedrooms, and a hall which has one shower, one shower and WC, a separate WC, and a washing machine and sink. There are also two other halls, one of which has access to a store room. The council found that the use of the building as a habitable space is akin to that of a HMO (House of Multiple Occupation). It also found that three of the rooms were too small to meet the minimum space requirements set out in the DCLG (Department of Housing, Communities and Local Government) Technical Housing Standard Nationally Described Space Standards. The technical standards require that a single room have a minimum floor space of 7.5sqm, with a width of at least 2.15m. One of the bedrooms in the outbuilding measures at just 4.3sqm, with a width of 1.8m, while another two rooms measure at 5.1sqm. One of the rooms have no windows. Internal photographs seen by the council officer showed that some bedrooms will also accommodate bunk beds and double beds. A number of Towie stars have enjoyed dining at The Eyna since its opening, with Saffron Lempriere raving about the 'lovely service, food, cocktails and atmosphere', promising she will be 'back soon'. Junaid Ahmed is also an avid fan of the Turkish spot, having visited it several times. In one Instagram story documenting the food, he wrote: 'UNREAL'. Many Towie stars are fans of the Turkish lounge grill and bar in Basildon. Towie's Saffron Lempriere pictured at the restaurant with a member of the Eyna team A floor plan submitted to the council shows the storage shed was converted into a nine-bedroom accommodation with no kitchen facilities Towie's Jordan Brook also dined at the Eyna with his mother earlier this year. He is pictured with Eyna's owner Abdullah Tekagac on the left and a team member on the right Towie's Jordan Brook also visited the spot with his mother for brunch. In an Instagram story of the food they ordered, he wrote: 'Mum picked a local spot for lunch today, and what a good spot it was! @eynalounge.' In evaluating the use of the outhouse, the council planning officer's report finds the building, which is constructed of metal cladding, is not fit for residential use and 'will result in an incongruous form of residential development' which does not reflect the 'commercial nature' of the site. It concludes that the accommodation provides a 'very low residential amenity' and 'general poor quality of life for the proposed occupants'. The building itself was granted planning permission in 2013 when it was used in association with a car showroom, to be used to pre-delivery inspections and the cleaning of cars. It was then used for storage of stock by the restaurant. Towie star Freddie Bentley posted a photograph of himself out at The Eyna two weeks ago Pictured: Abdullah Tekagac, the owner of The Eyna The Eyna was previously a car dealership, and the outbuilding was used in association with the car showroom. It was then meant for use as storage for the restaurant The application's existing floor plan and proposed floor plan are identical, confirming all the work had already been done before a planning application was first lodged. While the owner of the restaurant is an Abdullah Tekagac, the applicant on the planning application is named as Murat Oktem, whose social media indicates he is also linked to the restaurant. The planning report, which refuses planning permission, also questions whether insulation has been incorporated into the building to ensure the occupants health and well-being. Concerns are also raised over noise in the area due to the restaurant and car park and the lack of nearby amenities due to it not being a residential area. The warehouse is located 23.4m from the restaurant, and is situated in the middle of the car park, just off the A132 highway. The shed was concluded to be an 'extremely poor quality living environment' by the council. who refused the planning permission Pictured: Murat Oktem, the applicant named on the planning application, at The Eyna The Eyna's owner, Tekagac (left), and planning permission applicant Oktem (right) pictured in front of the bar area of the restaurant An overhead view of the restaurant (left) beside the shed which is located in the car park area for the restaurant The council report reads: 'The part retrospective change of use from an ancillary storage outbuilding into part ancillary storage and part habitable space, not constructed for residential purposes of any kind, of a warehouse appearance, located within a commercial car park and used for the housing of a large number of occupants will result in an incongruous form of residential development which does not reflect the commercial nature of the application site and will be out of character with the context of the site, providing a very low residential amenity and general poor quality of life for the proposed occupants. 'The part retrospective change of use from an ancillary storage outbuilding into part ancillary storage and part habitable space does not create places which promote health and well-being, with a high standard of amenity for future users but will result in a high level of noise and disturbance, insufficient indoor and outdoor amenity space to serve the occupiers, and insufficient bed spaces, which lead to adverse impacts to the occupiers residential amenities and offers an extremely poor quality living environment for users.' The Home Office said in regard to the immigration raid in July: 'We are determined to clamp down both on illegal working and the exploitative treatment of illegal workers. 'Vulnerable individuals can find themselves trapped in unsafe and insecure conditions, facing exploitation and even modern-day slavery, often facilitated by organised criminal gangs.' The Eyna said: 'As of September 2024, our company has undergone a complete change in ownership and business operations. 'The previous management is no longer associated with the business, and the current operations are entirely separate from any prior conduct.' People have been left stunned by what Antarctica looks like at night and said it would drive them 'insane'. While winter means it is getting darker earlier for Brits - it is a very different story for communities living in certain areas of Antarctic nations. Due to its location at the tip of the Southern Hemisphere the continent will not see a sustained period of darkness again until February 2025. The phenomenon was demonstrated in a video posted to TikTok by vlogger Matty Jordan, who regularly posts content about living on the icy continent to his 835,000 followers on the social media platform. Matty explains in his video that the absence of darkness takes place due to the presence of the so-called 'midnight sun'. This means that the sun remains visible at midnight during the summertime and just 'circles around the sky'. The countries and territories whose populations experience the midnight sun are limited to those crossed by polar circles: the Canadian Yukon, Nunavut, and Northwest Territories; the nations of Iceland, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark (Greenland), Russia; and Alaska in the US. Matty's video, which has been viewed more than 11million times on TikTok alone, had viewers in awe of the sight, as many took to the comments section with a mixture of wonder and disbelief. One user simply commented: 'This would drive me insane'. Matty explains in his video that the absence of darkness takes place due to the presence of the so-called 'midnight sun'. Antarctica - due to its location at the tip of the Southern Hemisphere - will not see a sustained period of darkness again until February 2025 A second joked: 'How did you get WiFi [to post the video] in Antarctica?' Another quipped: 'Are shops still open?' A further user asked: 'So how do you know when to sleep' - to which a fellow responder said: 'They have windows and blinds in Antarctica'. Another Brit, seemingly dreading the upcoming winter in the UK, remarked: 'At least you have sun, in the UK we have a few hours of grey sky and then it's dark again'. Another sceptical comment read: 'Waking up late not knowing if it's am or pm is diabolical'. The midnight sun, also known as the polar day, is a natural phenomenon that occurs in Antarctica during the summer when the sun is visible at midnight. During the polar summer, the sun stays above the horizon 24 hours a day meaning there is no sunrise or sunset, but only constant daylight. This is because - during the period from the beginning of November to February each year - the Earth's axis is tilted towards the sun in Antarctica, causing the sun to remain above the horizon for 24 hours a day. Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy are getting their waste-trimming clippers ready. President-elect Donald Trump this week named the billionaire Tesla owner and the former Republican presidential candidate as the co-leaders of a new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The two business execs are tasked with shaving trillions of dollars off the federal government's annual $6.75 trillion spend, by cutting waste, red tape, and downsizing federal agencies. The examples of needless government largesse are all too common from the Pentagon's big overspends on soap dispensers to questionable drag performances in South American cities. Trump likens his cost-cutting effort to the Manhattan Project, America's atomic bomb program in the 1940s, and says it will help 'dismantle government bureaucracy.' Musk estimates he can save taxpayers $1.9 trillion. He promises 'maximum transparency' from a team that will operate outside the regular confines of government. 'We will also have a leaderboard for most insanely dumb spending of your tax dollars,' Musk posted on X. President-elect Trump has hired Elon Musk to cut red tab and trim government flab The federal government spent $3 million to find out more about hamsters fighting when they're pumped full of steroids 'This will be both extremely tragic and extremely entertaining.' Still, critics say DOGE hands more power to the world's richest man, who donated millions to get Trump elected and whose companies could benefit from the new government portfolio. As the axe comes down, DailyMail.com takes a look at some of the wildest examples of government overspend. RODENT ROID RAGE Many of the quirkiest cases of government spending are undertaken by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which has paid to pump hamsters full of steroids and got them to fight in the name of science. That $3 million study by researchers at Northeastern University was aimed at assessing 'whether current drugs for aggressive youth suppress steroid-induced aggression,' says a government report. But rodent 'roid rage' research was just the tip of the iceberg. The NIH has also spent $2.3 million injecting six-month-old beagle puppies with cocaine, and $1.1 million on training mice to binge alcohol. NAVY GOURMETS White with foam: Paul singled out Pentagon and US Navy purchases of espresso machines According to the adage, an army marches on its stomach. The Pentagon may have taken this too literally, forking out $192,952 on top-of-the-line Starbucks espresso machines' for the US Navy between 2017 and 2021. It's not clear exactly which admiral signed off on luxury coffee machines. But an old-fashioned 'cup of Joe' clearly was not good enough for the gourmets who protect America on the high seas. MILITARY MARKUPS What's the most you'd pay for a soap dispenser in the bathroom of a military cargo jet? The Department of Defense has a famously bad record when it comes to shopping around. Take the Air Force, which has been building its C-17 cargo planes since 2011, but still cannot source parts at fair and reasonable prices, says a recent inspector general report. The Air Force overpaid $992,856 for a dozen kinds of spare parts under a 20-year deal with Boeing worth $35.6 billion, it says. The most egregious example were in-flight soap dispensers, which were marked up by an eye-popping 7,943 percent, says the report. MONKEY BUSINESS The government spends millions finding out what happens when monkeys take methamphetamine. Another example of NIH excess is its $33 million payout to a firm that runs a controversial 'monkey island,' a colony of some 3,000 primates used in research labs. The funding body spends millions on studying the gambling habits of monkeys, and what happens when you dose the animals with methamphetamine. A Florida lab even received $477,000 to cover research into 'transgender' monkeys males injected with female hormones. DOWNLOAD DUPES Some podcasts develop huge followings on their own, others need government money to produce obscure content. Pictured: The hit podcast Great Company. Joe Rogan does not ask for handouts to keep his podcast streaming. Still, there are plenty of less popular download shows that seek government help to keep up production. Since 2020, the federal government has spent some $324 million on projects involving lesser-known podcasts, says Open the Books. One of them, Regeneration Rising, received $446,353 from the Department of Agriculture, to help make shows about 'building a queer farmer community.' Another one, called Subtitle, received $227,420 from the National Endowment of the Humanities. Its makers produced a show about a new gender-neutral pronoun being introduced in Swedish. Finally, Fullbright Forward received $20,000 from the Department of State for a series about the Fullbright program. One of its episodes focussed on 'identity' and the 'impact of whiteness.' DIVERSITY DOULAS The Department of Health and Human Services doles out cash on diversity staffers and doulas Ramaswamy already has his eye on federal spending he wants to cut those pushing out diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts across the government. The Department of Health and Human Services spends some at an annual cost of $38.7 million each year on the salaries of 294 DEI staffers, many of them on six-figure salaries. It doles out another $29.4 million in payroll for seven offices dealing with the health of minorities, according to Open The Books, a government waste watchdog. Spending is also funneled into questionable support for black churches, 'diverse' university researchers, LGBTQ+ and indigenous groups, and even doulas, who support women during pregnancy and childbirth. 'An efficient government has no place for DEI bloat,' Ramaswamy posted on X. 'Time to DOGE it.' BENEFITS BEHIND BARS Detainees of US prisons are claiming millions in benefits while inside. Pictured: Inmates in Huntsville, Alabama. Social Security last year paid out $171 million in unemployment benefits to prisoners, under the mistaken belief that they were still free and out of work. Medicaid and Medicare also sent out $101 billion in improper payments, mostly because of fraud. Meanwhile, tax cheats swindled the IRS out of some $546 million. Better auditing could help trim these losses, even though it would likely also require hiring more people to monitor these programs. RUSSIAN CAT BRAINS In another bizarre misstep, the NIH in 2021 awarded $549,000 to a Russian lab performing experiments on cats, including removing part of their brains to see if they could still walk on treadmills. President Joe Biden has already halted the flow of taxpayer money to the Pavlov Institute in St. Petersburg and others, but the DOGE team could find plenty more examples of wacky research to trim. DRIVING DR. FAUCI Taxpayers spent millions on the driver and security team for retired health chief Dr Anthony Fauci The government's former top infectious disease expert Dr Anthony Fauci, has doubtless served his country for many years. Still, many taxpayers may resent the whopping $15 million they've spent on his private security detail since he retired. A public records request by Open The Books showed that Fauci got a publicly-funded chauffeur and a dedicated security team of US Marshals. The former official has been subject to death threats over the hard-line anti-Covid measures he helped impose during the pandemic. DRAG ME TO ECUADOR Publicly-funded drag shows in the US are already controversial, so why pay for more of them in South America? In another example of DEI bloat, the US State Department was exposed in 2022 for doling out some $20,000 for drag shows at a cultural center in Ecuador. The Centro Ecuatoriano Norteamericano Abraham Lincoln, a nonprofit in Cuenca, received the funds as a way to 'promote diversity and inclusion' in the region, official documents show. It paid for a dozen drag performances and workshops to address 'challenges' among local students and young professionals in the South American country. Many Americans will be glad to see the back of such spending in the wake of Trump's reelection on an anti-woke platform. John Hart, CEO of Open The Books, says he has high hopes for Trump's DOGE plans, but warns that past efforts to trim the fat have crashed and burned. The department's goal is 'attainable,' he says, but requires focus on the 'huge mandatory spending burden that makes up the bulk of the annual budget.' 'There are endless examples of frivolous spending they can snip away first,' Hart told DailyMail.com. 'The shrimp on treadmills example is not just some canard, there are countless easy wins to put on the board.' Of all the embarrassing failures Kamala Harris suffered at the ballot box - including the exodus of Hispanic, black, Asian and young voters - there is perhaps one that torments her the most. The popular vote, represented in the staggering graphic below, reveals that more than 8 million Americans who voted for Biden in 2020 simply vanished as they refused to back the Democratic candidate in 2024. Biden secured 81 million votes compared to Harris' 73 million. Harris supporters may try to dismiss this decline as the result of voter turnout being lower in 2024. But turnout is only projected to be two points lower - 65 percent against 67 percent in 2020. Harris is ten points down on Biden's numbers (with 97 percent of the total vote counted at the time of writing). Donald Trump, on the other hand, bumped his numbers by more than a million votes this time around, trouncing Harris by a margin of 3 million. He became the first Republican presidential candidate to win the popular vote for two decades. Even Hillary Clinton, one of the most unpopular presidential candidates of the last 50 years, managed to defeat Trump on raw votes in 2016. More than 8 million Americans who voted for Biden in 2020 simply vanished as they refused to back Kamala Harris in 2024. Donald Trump , on the other hand, bumped his numbers by more than a million votes this time around, trouncing Harris by a margin of 3 million. (The above numbers for 2024 are incomplete, with 97 percent of the vote counted at time of production) How exactly Harris suffered such a catastrophic defeat is still being dissected by political experts. But the numbers from the popular vote show in the starkest terms that Americans across every demographic rejected her. Asian, Black, Hispanic and young voters all shifted toward Trump. Asian voters made a 19-point swing to Trump, Hispanic support spiked by 18 points and among black voters by 10 points. There was a 14-point swing among voters under 30 to Trump - and in utter humiliation for Harris a seven-point boost for the Republican Party among women voters in that age group. Female voters under 24 were even more opposed to Harris, with Trump gaining 11 points in this demographic compared to 2020. Trump's huge rally with young women helped secure the largest portion of voters under 30 than any Republican candidate since 2008. Clinton had a 19-point lead with under-30s when she went up against Trump in 2016, Biden stretched that gap to 25 points - but under Harris, that margin shrunk to just 6 points. Trump ran an exceptional campaign that focused on the economy and immigration. Donald Trump dances during a campaign rally at Findlay Toyota Center in Prescott Valley, Arizona, on October 13 President Joe Biden and Kamala Harris with military officials for a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on Veterans Day at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia on November 11 Thirty-two percent of voters said that the economy was their top concern - and of that number 80 percent backed Trump, according to exit polling by Edison Research. Another 11 percent of voters said that they cared most about immigration, with Trump earning 90 percent of their vote. Harris failed to address these issues and her campaign strategy appeared to centered around abortion rights and Trump's 'threat to democracy.' Only 14 percent of voters said abortion was their top issue - Harris took a 74 percent share of their ballot papers. Thirty-four percent listed the 'state of democracy' as their top concern - 80 percent of them backed Harris. Donald Trump's new agency aimed at tearing apart the massive government bureaucracy is being urged to target 'lazy' teleworking federal workers. Trump tapped Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to 'dismantle' the $6.5 trillion bloated U.S. bureaucracy by spearheading the new 'Department of Government Efficiency' (DOGE). Trump made the bombshell announcement last week, saying the pair will co-lead the 'Manhattan Project of our time.' A top priority of the agency will be getting federal workers back into the office after empty offices have cost American taxpayers billions of dollars. According to a survey, 68 percent of 625,568 staff worked three or four days from home and it's wasting over $7 billion per year just in operations and leases. In addition to unused physical office space, employees are facing productivity challenges due to the impersonal nature of remote work. They've also been exposed for working from bathtubs, enjoying shooting pool, leaving early for happy hour and one who even collected a paycheck from jail. Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, who has spearheaded efforts to bring federal workers back into the office, has an extensive plan that she will be delivering to Trump and Musk 'in the coming days.' Elon Musk (left) has officially entered the Trump 2.0 administration, as he'll be leading the 'Department of Government Efficiency' alongside former GOP presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy (right) It will lay out a roadmap to get federal employees back into the office and working as quickly as possible. That will be a 'great cost saver' because many will quit instead of coming in to actually work. 'Elon Musk better bring his scissors to DOGE because there is $2 trillion worth of cutting to do,' Ernst told DailyMail.com. 'In the coming days, I will be delivering a report to President Trump and Elon Musk that will serve as a how-to guide to reform the broken federal workforce and get Washington to finally start working for the people.' She mentioned other priorities including cutting taxpayer dollars going to 'sketchy' Chinese labs and exposing government 'boondoggle' projects wasting millions. Musk said in a statement last week that DOGE will 'send shockwaves through the system, and anyone involved in Government waste, which is a lot of people!' Republicans have long complained about government over-spending and Trump touted that DOGE will accomplish its goals by July 4, 2026. Trump pledged that the pair would help him 'dismantle' government bureaucracy and 'slash excess regulations, cut wasteful spending, and restructure Federal Agencies.' 'Elon Musk better bring his scissors to DOGE because there is $2 trillion worth of cutting to do,' Ernst told DailyMail.com Your browser does not support iframes. 'A smaller Government, with more efficiency and less bureaucracy, will be the perfect gift to America on the 250th Anniversary of The Declaration of Independence,' Trump said in the statement. 'I am confident they will succeed!' Trump emphasized that the pair 'will provide advice and guidance from outside of Government' and 'drive large scale reform' by creating an 'entrepreneurial approach to Government never seen before.' Musk and Ramaswamy have become some of Trump's top allies in the tech bro community. DOGE itself is a play on the cryptocurrency Musk sent into the stratosphere by posting about it on Twitter (before he purchased and renamed it). Musk officially endorsed Trump on the heels of the July 13 assassination attempt on the Republican at his Butler, Pennsylvania rally. The SpaceX, X and Tesla head joined Trump on the campaign trail on October 5 when the now president-elect returned to the Butler venue - memorably jumping around onstage. He put his money where his mouth was - offering a $1 million award each day to registered voters in battleground states. Former President Donald Trump (left) speaks at his second rally in Butler, Pennsylvania alongside Elon Musk (right), who endorsed the Republican after he survived the Butler shooting in July Musk was with Trump and his family members at their election night shindig at Mar-a-Lago and has since been seen in meetings with the president-elect as he figures out who's in his Cabinet. Ramaswamy is a Yale Law-educated entrepreneur who started Roivant Sciences Ltd. a decade ago, which uses technology to aid drug development and other healthcare needs. He wrote a popular book on the right: Woke, Inc.: Inside Corporate America's Social Justice Scam. Ramaswamy started out the 2024 election cycle by running for president himself - though stayed complimentary of the ex-president. Unlike candidates like New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson and former Rep. Will Hurd, who were decidedly anti-Trump in the 2024 Republican primary, Ramaswamy touted the 78-year-old's accomplishments in office. When Trump appeared to be the runaway favorite ahead of the early primaries, Ramaswamy never turned on the former president, like Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former U.N. Amb. Nikki Haley, allowing him to have a comfortable place to land in the Trump 2.0 White House. Ramaswamy came in fourth place in the Iowa caucuses, suspending his campaign immediately afterward and endorsing Trump. Elon Musk (second from right) appears in the Trump family photo on election night as family, friends and political allies gathered at Mar-a-Lago Both Musk and Ramaswamy are billionaires - but Musk's net worth is estimated to be 304 billion and Ramaswamy is worth only one billion dollars. 'Republican politicians have dreamed about the objectives of 'DOGE' for a very long time,' Trump said. 'To drive this kind of drastic change, the Department of Government Efficiency will provide advice and guidance from outside of Government, and will partner with the White House and Office of Management & Budget to drive large scale structural reform, and create an entrepreneurial approach to Government never seen before.' Musk responded to the news by posting to X: 'The merch will be' and then typed out three fire emojis. Musk's selection came amid a flurry of other picks from the President elect as he began to set out his inner circle of loyal allies. Now it will take more than just one member to force a vote of no confidence Speaker of the House Mike Johnson has negotiated a deal that will better shield him from getting thrown out of power next Congress - and he has Donald Trump to thank. The president-elect has been very complimentary of the speaker in the past week after Republicans maintained control of the House and the two have been spotted at high-profile GOP events from Mar-a-Lago to Washington, D.C. Whether discussing party plans over dinner or legislative strategy by phone Johnson seemingly has been brought closer into the former and future president's orbit. That blossoming relationship may be responsible for a major concession recently made by the most MAGA members of the House Republican conference this week. While visiting Washington, D.C., on Wednesday Trump stopped by a private meeting with House Republicans and urged them to rally behind Johnson. The president-elect told the room filled with hundreds of lawmakers he '100 percent' supports Johnson. 'This is a tremendous guy. Im with him all the way,' Trump said. Trump's declaration of faith in Johnson just ahead of the House GOP leadership elections was clear, and later that day the speaker won reelection with an unanimous vote. Then that evening it was announced he will be eight times harder to remove from power. Donald Trump, Mike Johnson, his son Jack Johnson and wife Kelly Johnson at the AFPI Gala at Mar-a-Lago on Thursday night just one day after the speaker won his leadership reelection bid Speaker Mike Johnson got Donald Trump's full endorsement to be the top House Republican President-elect Donald Trump shakes hands with House Speaker Mike Johnson of La., as he arrives to speak at a meeting with the House GOP conference, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, in Washington. During Trump's remarks before House Republicans he mentioned that he supports Johnson retaining his spot as the GOP leader Just over a year after former Republican Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy was ousted from power, Speaker Mike Johnson and some hardline conservatives have struck a deal to make it harder to remove him as party leader. Johnson along with Reps. Dusty Johnson, R-S.D., and Andy Harris, R-Md., revealed Wednesday evening that a deal was struck to raise the vote threshold for a 'motion to vacate' the speaker from one single vote to nine votes. 'We had an opportunity to set the motion to vacate at a higher than number one, that motion to vacate will be set at nine in return for getting rid of some amendments that probably would have divided this conference,' the South Dakota Republican. He claimed it put the House 'in a better position to move forward with the Republican agenda to make sure that Speaker Johnson, South Dakota Senate Leader John Thune and our President Donald Trump have an opportunity to go forward.' Currently, if one member files a motion to vacate the speaker, the entire House could soon vote on whether that speaker, in this case Johnson, gets to keep their job. Former Rep. Matt Gaetz - Trump's attorney general nominee - notoriously began McCarthy's ouster by raising a motion to vacate in October 2023. Gaetz's solitary vote of no confidence kickstarted a revolt against the speaker, ultimately leading to his ousting from power and later retirement from Congress altogether. The Florida Republican along with seven other members of the GOP joined every Democratic member to remove McCarthy, which then kicked off weeks of turbulence as the House GOP grasped at straws attempting to find a new leader. Jack Johnson, Vivek Ramaswamy, Speaker Johnson and Elon Musk on Thursday night President-elect Donald Trump, escorted by House Speaker Mike Johnson of La., for a meeting with the House GOP conference on Wednesday After a flurry of unsuccessful candidates and weeks of Congress being paralyzed - it can't function properly without a speaker - Johnson emerged as a genteel, problem solver from Louisiana ready to unite the conference. Just a few months after the Louisiana Republican took the speaker's gavel his members were already asking for him to step down. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., filed a motion to vacate Johnson in March just like his predecessor. The Georgia lawmaker was furious over a $1.2 trillion government funding bill. Greene and conservatives allies were enraged the 1,000 page package was released in the middle of the night, with no time to read it before the vote. House Speaker Mike Johnson of La.,, center, stands before President-elect Donald Trump speaks during an America First Policy Institute gala at his Mar-a-Lago estate, Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024, in Palm Beach, Fla., as Newt Gingrich, left, watches U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) gestures as he listens to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump speak during the America First Policy Institute Gala held at Mar-a-Lago on November 14, 2024 in Palm Beach, Florida. The annual event supports Grey Team, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing military suicide Johnson later avoided being removed and the threat never materialized into a serious GOP insurrection. With the motion to vacate threshold being raised to nine from one it will insulate Johnson from a few disgruntled members, but not from many. If nine band together to cast a vote to remove Johnson the House would be plunged back into a desperate search for someone to take the helm while all other legislative duty gets paused indefinitely. The deal will be finalized in rules voted upon in January 2025 and it should provide more stability for the House GOP after threats like Greene's. A navy warship stepped in to see off Vladimir Putin's spy vessel after it was caught brazenly loitering in the Irish Sea. The Yantar, billed by Moscow as an 'oceanographic research vessel', was spotted on Thursday lurking near the Isle of Man. The position of the spy ship, equipped with mini submarines, was assessed to be directly above undersea energy cables linking Britain and Ireland. It triggered Royal Navy vessels to re-route to the area. In the early hours of yesterday morning, Irish Defence Forces' LE James Joyce, equipped with cannons and machine guns, was called into action to escort Putin's surveillance ship out of the Irish exclusive economic zone. Its movements were monitored by the Air Corps as it headed south, reported the Guardian. The research vessel Yantar was one of three Russian vessels caught sailing through the Channel in recent days. The Russian parliament previously described the Yantar as carrying equipment 'designed for deep-sea tracking' and 'connecting to top secret cables'. The incident came as RAF jets were scrambled to monitor a Russian aircraft that was nearing UK airspace. Irish Defence Forces' LE James Joyce (pictured in 2022 in the Cork harbour) stepped in to see off one of Vladimir Putin's spy vessels after it was caught brazenly loitering in the Irish Sea An archive Royal Navy image of the Yantar ship being shadowed by Royal Navy ship HMS Diamond as it passed through the English Channel in January 2018 Kremlin leader Putin may be trying send a chilling message to Britain regarding the vulnerability of its undersea cables and pipeline, according to UK security sources According to security sources, it is likely either a US or British submarine would also have been tasked to monitor her movements, and be alert to any bid by her 60-man crew to reach the cables. UK security sources said the Yantar wanted to send a chilling message to Britain regarding the vulnerability of its undersea cables and pipelines. One described her presence as dangerous and said she is gathering intel, most likely to assess the vulnerability of the cables. Meanwhile, naval experts warned Putin 'probing the defences of western Europe' was another 'wake-up call' for Ireland to bolster its naval capabilities. While one warned the Kremlin may be trying to map the energy pipelines and communication cables along the seabed to potentially one day launch a sabotage attack on the network. Iain Ballantyne, the editor of Warships International Fleet Review magazine, told the Express the West should be monitoring the Yantar's movements 'very closely'. 'And if Russia is to take revenge one day for the UK and other NATO nations assisting Ukraine in its fight for survival, then it will possibly be via unseen activities like seabed sabotage,' he said. 'Russia is already suspected of doing such things since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.' A map showing the approximate location the Yantar ship transmitted on Thursday as its location in the Irish Sea HMS Iron Duke (foreground) shadows Russia frigate Admiral Golovko in the English Channel last weekend The Yantar has previously sailed close to British waters and had to be escorted by a Royal Navy ship (pictured in 2018) Two Typhoons from RAF Lossiemouth in Scotland followed the Russian Tupolev-142 (a Typhoon is seen flanking a Bear-F in August 2023) An RAF Typhoon, left, monitors a Russian Tupolev Tu-142 maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) aircraft in August 2023 It was the second time in three months that Russian ships and aircraft had been detected around UK airspace and waters within a week of each other. The Yantar briefly appeared some 60 kilometres off the coast of Ireland before disappearing again on Thursday, raising fears it was operating above vital undersea cables responsible for connecting Britain and Ireland and carrying the UK's digital data. Despite its official status as a research vessel, a Russian parliament publication previously said the Yantar carries technology 'designed for deep-sea tracking, as well as equipment for connecting to top-secret communication cables'. Edward Burke, an assistant professor in the history of war at University College Dublin, told the Irish Examiner the situation was alarming. 'Once again we see the Russian navy probing the defences of western Europe. It's yet another wake-up call one that we shouldn't need that Ireland needs to bolster its naval capabilities and deepen its maritime security partnerships in Europe,' he said. The Royal Navy dispatched HMS Cattistock to shadow the vessel while the RAF sent a Poseidon P8 reconnaissance plane to track its movements. Meanwhile, two Typhoon fighter jets from RAF Lossiemouth in Scotland followed a Russian Tupolev-142, a maritime reconnaissance aircraft known as the 'Bear-F' in NATO countries, as it flew over the North Sea on Thursday. It was the second time in three months that Russian ships and aircraft had been detected around UK airspace and waters within a week of each other. 'Our adversaries should be in no doubt of our steadfast determination and formidable ability to protect the UK,' said armed forces minister Luke Pollard. The Russian Northern Fleet ultra-modern frigate Admiral Golovko is armed with hypersonic Tsirkon missiles The Golovko targets another vessel amid naval drills 'The crew of the Admiral Golovko frigate of the Russian Navy's Northern Fleet held exercises in the English Channel,' said Russian defence ministry TV channel Zvezda 'The sailors practised anti-submarine and anti-aircraft defence, and conducted a training rescue operation using Ka-27 helicopters' 'The Royal Navy and RAF (Royal Air Force) have once again shown they stand ready to defend our country at a moment's notice and I pay tribute to the professionalism and bravery of those involved in these latest operations,' he added. The RAF scramble to intercept the Bear-F came days after the Royal Navy was forced to shadow Russian military vessels passing through the Channel that were accompanied by the Yantar. It was the second time in three months that Russian ships and aircraft had been detected around UK airspace and waters within a week of each other. Incidents involving Russian and Western aircraft have multiplied over the recent months against the backdrop of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Earlier this week, Putin's most modern frigate passed through the English Channel on its maiden long-distance voyage. The Admiral Golovko, the newest member of Russia's Northern Fleet, is armed with hypersonic Tsirkon missiles. These projectiles can travel some 900km at several times the speed of sound, making it almost impossible for conventional air defence systems to shoot them down. The warship, one of 10 planned for production as part of Russia's Project 22350, left its Arctic home base in Severomorsk almost two weeks days ago and sailed through the Barents, Norwegian and North Seas before heading for the Channel. It came as the Kremlin leader looks to exploit Donald Trump's US presidential election victory. His return to the White House is expected to see US submarines, which for decades have patrolled the North Sea and Irish Sea to keep Russian vessels at bay, being withdrawn from next year. A man has been caught smuggling hundreds of tarantulas strapped to his body through airport security. The unnamed 28-year-old from South Korea was arrested at Lima airport after officers noticed he had a peculiar 'swollen stomach'. To their horror, concealed beneath his jumper were 300 tarantulas, around 100 centipedes and nine stinging bullet ants in small plastic bags. The business of smuggling the eight legged predators is highly lucrative and it largely driven by private souvenir collectors. All the creatures have since been handed over to animal protection services, said Pilar Ayala, a biologist from Peru's national forestry and wildlife service. Concealed beneath his jumper were 300 tarantulas, around 100 centipedes and nine stinging bullet ants in small plastic bags He was arrested and the creatures had all been handed over to animal protection services, said Pilar Ayala, a biologist from Peru's national forestry and wildlife service The business of smuggling the eight legged predators is highly lucrative and it largely driven by private souvenir collectors An official holds a tarantula that was seized from a South Korean national as he was attempting to smuggle hundreds of tarantulas and centipedes along with bullet ants out of the country Ms Ayala said: 'It was observed that the citizen had placed these specimens in small zip-lock bags with filter paper. 'They were placed around his body, contained by two girdles.' Expert Alice Hughes, a biology professor at Hong Kong University, told the Telegraph that the collectors are obsessed with the hobby and try to gather as many specimens as possible 'like Pokemon'. 'Tarantulas are especially vulnerable to poaching because they're long-lived - some reach 30 years old - and females reproduce late and infrequently,' Chris Hamilton, a professor of insect studies at Idaho University, told the BBC this week. 'This is terrible for withstanding human disturbance (habitat destruction, pet trade collecting, or climate change) because of how long it takes to regenerate populations,' he added. The Barefoot Investor has revealed the one stock he is glad to have not invested in despite being encouraged by his friend. Scott Pape made the comment after a concerned reader wrote in to explain he had lost a great deal of money investing in medicinal cannabis companies. 'Do you know what is happening with the medical cannabis companies?' Andrew wrote in a column published in the Daily Telegraph. Andrew volunteered he held stocks in cannabis sellers AC8 and CGB, but both had been delisted from the Australian stock exchange. 'Others are only worth 1/100th what I paid for them! Should I be freaking out?' he wrote. In his response Pape could not resist a number of puns as he delivered a harsh downer. 'Dude, it sounds like you've been well and truly smoked,' he wrote. Pape said a few years ago it seemed everyone was 'getting high' on cannabis stocks. Barefoot Investor Scott Pape has delivered some sobering news to an investor into medical cannabis A comedian friend had even tried 'super hard' to convince Pape to have a 'toke' on a medical marijuana investment, but the finance guru resisted. This was despite Pape believing there was 'a huge market for medicinal marijuana' as well as for just plain recreational use. He cited a National Survey on Drug Use and Health study that showed more Americans smoked dope each day than drank alcohol. 'Still, the reality is that traders blew up the valuations of these start-up businesses way too much,' Pape said. 'Now the market has come off its high, and there are a lot of marginal businesses that aren't worth anything like the prices investors paid for them in the boom.' In answer to Andrew's question about whether he should be worried, Pape told him 'the time to freak out was a long time ago' before his money had all gone to pot. Earlier this year, Australian Securities Exchange suspended the shares of pioneer medicinal cannabis producer Cann Group after an auditor reported 'insufficient evidence' of future funding for the next 12 months. Cann Group was the first company to be issued with a cannabis research licence by the Australian government's Office of Drug Control in 2017. It invested $49 million in a medicinal cannabis glasshouse on the outskirts of Mildura and employed about 40 staff. Prosecutors claim defense attorneys violated a court order by 'altering the crime scene' during an investigation into a teenager accused of murdering his family. The 15-year-old, whose identity remains withheld due to a court order, is charged with killing his parents, Mark Humiston, 43, and wife Sarah, 42, along with his younger siblings: Benjamin, 13, Joshua, 9, and Katheryn, 7. The King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office says the defense team mishandled evidence while conducting an unsupervised search of the home. The gruesome deaths occurred in the early hours of October 21 at the family's $2million luxury lakeside mansion on Lake Alice Road Southeast in Fall City, Washington. The only survivor, an 11-year-old girl, escaped after being shot, seeking refuge at a neighbor's house. According to court documents, the teen allegedly staged the crime scene to implicate his 13-year-old brother. He then called 911, claiming his younger sibling had shot the family before turning the gun on himself. However, investigators quickly debunked his version of events citing autopsy results and ballistic evidence. Electrical engineer Mark Humiston, 43, and his registered nurse wife Sarah, 42, were found dead at the home along with three of their children The teens three siblings, Benjamin, 13, Joshua, 9 and Katheryn, 7, were killed in the shooting. His 11-year-old sister survived Last month, on October 28, Judge Veronica Galvan granted a motion allowing the defense team unsupervised access to the home. They were permitted a 10-hour window the following day to take photos, conduct 3D scans, and search the boy's bedroom. However, strict conditions were imposed. They could only examine items in plain view and were prohibited from removing or searching through 'file cabinets, containers, drawers, digital devices, and the like.' But in a motion filed on November 5, Senior Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Jason Brookhyser alleged that the defense violated these terms. Prosecutors presented photographic evidence suggesting that items, including a bottle of Clorox wipes and children's backpacks, had been moved or removed entirely. 'It is clear that defense counsel and their agents exceeded the permitted scope of their search under the Court's order,' Brookhyser stated in the filing. The prosecution is now seeking an order compelling the defense to turn over all materials collected during their search. They argue the court must have access to this evidence to determine whether the defense acted appropriately. Lawyers for the 15-year-old boy (pictured) accused of killing his parents and three siblings in Fall City, Washington, claim his brother committed the crime Prosecutors are accusing defense attorneys of 'altering the crime scene', violating a court order during their investigation of a chilling case in Fall City, Washington While the defense is seeking to preserve its ability to argue for its client's innocence, the prosecution remains focused on what they see as a clear violation of trust. Brookhyser has emphasized the importance of adherence to court orders, noting, 'The State is entitled to possession of those materials in the due course of counsels' reciprocal discovery obligations.' In an earlier motion, defense attorney Amy Parker stated, 'The State's theory is that [15-year-old] was involved in a mass killing of five people with firearms confined to a basement. There is no evidence at this point that we have received that indicates [15-year-old] had any blood on him.' Parker also argued for the importance of unbiased investigations: 'In my experience, it is beneficial for defense to have an opportunity to investigate the crime scene in this case free from [law enforcement] bias,' she wrote. The couple were extremely religious - imposing a highly-controlled existence on their five kids which included dictating who they could be friends with and homeschooling them Defense attorneys were permitted a 10-hour window to take photos, conduct 3D scans, and search the boy's bedroom but they are now accused of 'mishandling evidence' According to detectives, the 15-year-old also attempted to stage the crime scene to lend credence to his story that it had been a murder-suicide perpetrated by Benjamin. The report noted that a black Glock pistol had been placed in the child's hand but forensic investigators spotted that the weapon hadn't been fired and that blood splatter from a fatal wound to the boy's face was in the wrong place. Despite these assertions, Parker and co-counsel Molly Campera withdrew from the case shortly after the unsupervised search. The teen is now being represented by a new attorney, Kristen Gestaut of Obsidian Law Offices. The prosecution is pushing to move the case to adult court, given the severity of the charges. According to investigators, the 11-year-old survivor told detectives she witnessed her brother shooting family members and then checking their pulses to ensure they were dead. According to investigators, the 11-year-old survivor told detectives she witnessed her brother shooting family members and then checking their pulses to ensure they were dead Her older brother then re-entered her bedroom, where she closed her eyes and held her breath as he stood next to her bed. Once her brother left her room and she could hear him upstairs on the phone, she used the window to escape before running to her neighbor's house and incessantly ringing the doorbell - fearing her brother would come to find her. The surviving daughter, who was bleeding from her neck and hand, told the neighbors that her family was dead at the hands of her own brother before they phoned police. Additionally, she told how the teen was the only sibling who knew the combination code to the gun safe. She played dead before she escaping the bloodbath through a 'fire window' in her room and ran about a quarter of a mile away to a neighbor's house. In a disturbing detail, she remembered her brother leaning over the three family members he gunned down in the hallway before touching their bloodied bodies to make sure they were actually dead. Documents obtained by DailyMail.com show the accused shooter attempted to blame the murders on Benjamin, claiming his younger sibling shot the family members and killed himself after being caught watching porn the previous evening. But autopsy reports further contradicted the teen's initial claims. Benjamin was shot multiple times, including a fatal shot to the back of his head from more than two feet away. Police say it was the 15-year-old who massacred nearly his entire family using his father's Glock handgun, with his younger sister - the only survivor of the bloodbath - saying it was her eldest brother who fired two shots at her, hitting her in the neck and arm. The teen's attorneys insist his murder-suicide theory is 'forensically viable,' according to court documents obtained by The Seattle Times. The case continues to unfold as both sides prepare for a legal battle that will determine the teen's fate in what has become one of the most disturbing cases in recent memory. She is charged with attempting to smuggle drugs An Australian grandmother is set face court in Japan after falling for a 'romance scam' and allegedly trying to smuggle drugs into the country. Perth woman Donna Nelson, 57, was arrested in January, 2023, at Narita International Airport in Japan for attempting to import 1.9kg of methamphetamine into the country. Authorities claim Ms Nelson hid the methamphetamines in a tampered suitcase, which was fitted with a false outer lining to create a hidden cavity. Ms Nelson has not spoken with her family since her arrest and has remained in a Chiba Prison cell, where she claims she is kept in isolation for 23 hours a day. Her five daughters will attend the trial which is scheduled to start on Monday at a court in Chiba, east of Tokyo. They claim their mother, who is a prominent Indigenous leader and chair of a West Australian Aboriginal health service, was the victim of an online romance scam. Ms Nelson's eldest daughter Kristal Hilaire said her grandfather was the first Aboriginal policeman in Western Australia and her mum was married to the first Aboriginal detective in the state. Ms Hilaire explained her mum would never have knowingly carried illegal drugs into a foreign country. Perth grandmother Donna Nelson, 57, is set to face court on Monday charged with attempting to smuggle 1.9kg of methamphetamine into Japan Ms Nelson's family believe she was the victim of an online romance scam and was tricked into carrying the suitcase filled with drugs 'She would never, ever have any kind of involvement in something that could ruin so many lives for other people,' Ms Hilaire told The ABC. Her family believes she was forced or tricked into carrying the suitcase into Japan as it was not part of her luggage when she bordered her flight out of Australia. Her daughters explained their mum had been talking to a Nigerian man online for two years before her arrest and was travelling to meet him. Ms Nelson had met the man, who is known as 'Kelly', through an online dating site called AfroIntroductions about two years prior to her arrest. Kelly told Ms Nelson he had his own adult children and he ran a successful fashion business while living in Japan. The pair planned to get married after they met in person, with Kelly offering Ms Nelson an all-expenses paid trip to Japan. However, Kelly told Ms Nelson he could not get her a direct flight to Japan during the Christmas-New Year period and that she had to make a stop at Laos first. Ms Nelson spoke to her daughters from a hotel in Laos and seemed to be enjoying her holiday. However, that was the last communication they had with her before she was arrested at the airport in Japan. Ms Hilaire said her mum was 'vulnerable' and 'really lonely', claiming she desperately wanted to connect with someone who had similar values. 'I think he sold this beautiful, big blended family image with her, and that she would not have to be alone anymore,' Ms Hilaire said. Ms Nelson's family believe Kelly used their mother as a pawn in a much larger, sophisticated global network of criminals. Her lawyer in Japan Nishida Rie said Ms Nelson was unaware the suitcase contained methamphetamine as it was cleverly hidden and was tricked into carrying it. Ms Nishida also alleged the investigation, carried out by Japanese customs officials and police, had serious flaws including low-quality and partiality of English interpretation and failure to use objective recording methods. High-profile Australian lawyer Jennifer Robinson (pictured second from left with Ms Nelson's daughters Ashlee, Shontay and Kristal) has taken on Ms Nelson's case claiming she should be treated as a victim and not a criminal High-profile Australian lawyer Jennifer Robinson has taken on Ms Nelson's case, claiming the mother-of-five should not be treated as a criminal but rather a victim. Ms Robinson, who previously represented Julian Assange, said Ms Nelson was being punished with abhorrent prison conditions and solitary confinement. 'The criminal gang that are responsible for this are not being properly investigated and punished, and Donna, the victim of the crime, is being punished,' Ms Robinson said. 'Not just punished, held in abhorrent prison conditions, in solitary confinement in a Japanese prison.' Ms Robinson has urged the Australian government to intervene and ensure Ms Nelson' receives a fair trial. She added Japan's conviction rate for criminal cases was 99 per cent, which raised serious concerns over the presumption of innocence and due process. Ms Nelson is set to face court on Monday, with a verdict in her case due on December 4. Mystery surrounds the death of a 24-year-old woman found dead in a car boot in London almost 100 miles away from her home. The body of Harshita Brella was found in the back of a vehicle on Brisbane Road, Ilford, after being killed by someone the police believe was 'known to her'. Alarms were raised on Wednesday when Northamptonshire Police received a call regarding concerns over Harshita's welfare. Officer were sent round to her home address on Skegness Walk, Corby, but received no answer at the door. A missing person investigation was launched and after enquiries were fast-tracked she was found on Brisbane road, Ilford on Thursday - some 95.7 miles away from the share house she lived in. One local told MailOnline: 'They seemed to be focusing on a car. It's horrific. It's quite an unsafe area. That poor woman must have gone through hell. 'It's deeply shocking. I've felt sick. She must have gone through so much pain.' Harshita Brella was reported missing on November 13 by the authorities after Northamptonshire Police conducted a welfare check at her home in Skegness Walk, Corby and got no answer The body of the woman was found in the boot of a car on Brisbane Road, pictured, in Ilford Harshita's body was discovered nearly 100 miles from her home in Northmaptonshire They continued: 'Officers swarmed all over the street and were here for hours. It looked incredibly serious. 'There was screaming on the street earlier in the week. It's rough around here so I didn't bat an eye lid. There's always drug dealing and attacks and all sorts.' A forensic postmortem examination, which took place at Leicester Royal Infirmary yesterday, confirmed that Harshita had been murdered, but no arrests have yet been made. Meanwhile a neighbour at Harshita's home in Corby told the Northampton Chronicle that the house the young woman lived in had been used as an HMO (house in multiple occupation), and at one point last year had 12 people living in it. The number of occupants has since reduced and the neighbour said she believed that the house had Bulgarian, Moldovan and Portuguese residents. The property had been largely peaceful since some noise complaints were resolved last year, the neighbour added. Brisbane Road in Ilford, east London. A forensic postmortem examination, which took place at Leicester Royal Infirmary yesterday, confirmed that Harshita had been murdered A murder investigation is ongoing after the 24-year-old's body was found in a car boot near the entrance of Valentines Park in Ilford, East London A general view of Skegness Walk in Corby where Harshita Brella lived in a house share But earlier this week she heard a commotion: 'The way that gate slammed I knew something had happened. Someone took off quickly. 'I had heard banging coming from the house and then they obviously just legged it. 'The police have been here about four days.' Forensic officers spent hours at the scene of the car and only yesterday removed a tent and forensic scene. And police have been asking locals whether they had seen any suspicion activity in the area - especially relating to men. One person, who asked not to be named said: 'It's a mystery how she ended up here. The poor woman. 'Officers asked me if I'd seen anything suspicious, they basically asked if any dodgy men had been in the area. 'They seem to suggest they know who did it. From what they said to me I bet it sounds like a man who knew her. They seemed to want to know about men in particular.' Map showing the location that Harshita's body was discovered on Brisbane road Map showing the location of Harshita Brella's home on Skegness Walk in Corby Shop worker Paul Sidebottom, 54, said police had spent hours in the street and had asked locals for CCTV. He said: 'Our shop CCTV hasn't shown anything. 'They asked if I'd seen or heard anything. They seemed very concerned.' Northamptonshire Police has also referred themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) due to previous contact they had with her. Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Johnny Campbell from the East Midlands Special Operations Major Crime Unit (EMSOU), said: 'First of all, I want to express my heartfelt condolences to everyone who loved Harshita Brella. 'She was a young woman in her early 20s with her whole life ahead of her and it is absolutely tragic that her life has been cut short in this way. 'Detectives from EMSOU and Northamptonshire Police are working around the clock to establish the circumstances behind her death, including the exact location and timeframe in which it took place.' DCI Campbell is appealing to anyone who may have information about this incident to come forward. He said: 'Although we believe Harshita was attacked by someone known to her, we are keeping an open mind, and would appeal to anyone who knew her to contact us with any relevant information they may have. 'If you saw anything suspicious in the past week or have any information, no matter how small, please contact us. We would always rather receive well-meaning information that turns out to be nothing as opposed to not receiving it all.' Anyone who may have information that could assist police inquiries is asked to contact police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. The ABC has been called out for not holding a Remembrance Day event but pushing ahead with plans to hold a Transgender Day of Remembrance. An ABC insider told Sky News the national broadcaster will be holding the event next week as part of its new diversity and inclusion measures. The policy has been rolled out following the release of its racism review in October which found racial discrimination, slurs and stereotyping rife at the ABC. The national broadcaster has rolled out a series of changes including a 75-minute training course that is mandatory for its entire 4,000 staff. Staff were sent a calendar invite on Thursday informing them the Transgender Day of Remembrance will be held at the Ultimo foyer, in Sydney, next week. The event will be beamed to ABC offices across the country. Sky News senior reporter Caroline Marcus questioned why the same respect had not been shown to Australian soldiers on Remembrance Day on Monday. 'You'd presume the ABC ALSO held an event in the foyer for staff who may wish to gather together to observe a minute's silence and pay tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives for our freedom,' she said. The ABC has been called out for not holding a Remembrance Day event but pushing ahead with plans to hold a Transgender Day of Remembrance 'Apparently not, our ABC insider tells us.' Traditionally a minute's silence is held dedicated to soldiers who died fighting to protect the nation and to mark 11am on 11 November 1918, when the guns on the Western Front fell silent ending the calamitous conflict of WWI. Red poppies are also traditionally worn or displayed to represent the lives lost. The 75-minute training course ABC staff will be required to complete by the end of the month is entitled 'Building an Inclusive Culture'. As an example of the course content, staff have been told that instead of using a phrase such as 'Chinese whispers' they should substitute the term 'misinformation'. Marcus slammed such efforts as being 'radical activist rubbish'. It comes just a month after the racism review was handed down in October. The report was commissioned in the wake of Stan Grant's shock resignation from the ABC over claims he was unsupported while the target of racist attacks. Specific details included staff receiving comments about their racial appearance, stereotyping and being mistaken for someone else in a racist manner. An ABC insider told Sky News the national broadcaster will be holding the event next week as part of its new diversity and inclusion measures It has been a torrid couple of months for the ABC with its head of news Justin Stevens being forced to admit there was altered gunshot audio used in a news report about an Australian Special Forces operation in Afghanistan. An audio expert revealed how video footage published by the ABC was changed to add five extra gunshots, making it appear that an Australian soldier was firing at an unarmed Afghan man. In issuing a grovelling apology Mr Stevens said the audio had been 'incorrectly edited' and has since been removed from all of the ABC's online platforms. Liam Bartlett, the staf Seven reporter, who broke the story accused the ABC of 'vilifying' the nation's brave troops with the public broadcaster carrying accusations of war crimes. Daily Mail Australia contacted the ABC for comment. Volodymyr Zelensky yesterday declared he will do all he can to end the war in Ukraine next year and Donald Trump in the White House will make it happen faster. In an interview with Ukrainian radio, the countrys president urged the US to maintain its position that the Kremlin had violated Ukraines territorial integrity and international law as Donald Trump prepares to return as US President in January. Mr Zelensky said: We must do everything we can to ensure this war ends next year. We have to end it by diplomatic means. And he said the war will end faster with the policy of this team that will now lead the White House. Mr Trump has repeatedly claimed he could end the war in Ukraine upon his return to power, saying last year: I want them to stop dying. And Ill have that done Ill have that done in 24 hours. As Russia continued to pepper Kyiv with drone attacks, Mr Zelensky also rounded on German Chancellor Olaf Scholz for opening Pandoras box with an unexpected call to Vladimir Putin last week. The Ukraine leader said the first call between a major Western European leader and Moscow in more than two years risked undermining efforts to isolate the Russian president since the 2022 invasion. Volodymyr Zelensky yesterday declared he will do all he can to end the war in Ukraine next year The Ukrainian President feels that American President-elect Donald Trump can help him end the war against Russia 'faster' Trump won a historic second term in the White House earlier this month defeating Kamala Harris in a landslide victory At the European Political Community summit in Budapest last week, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer reiterated his unwavering support for Ukraine German chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned the war in Ukraine in an hour-long call to Moscow on Friday, and called for peace talks and a withdrawal of troops Mr Zelensky said: Olafs call has opened a Pandoras box. Now there may be other conversations, other calls... this is exactly what Putin has long wanted: it is extremely important for him to weaken his isolation. I dont think Putin wants peace at all. But that does not mean he doesnt want to sit down with world leaders and it benefits him to sit down, talk, and not reach an agreement. The German chancellors office said Mr Scholz condemned the war in the hour-long call to Moscow on Friday, and called for peace talks and a withdrawal of troops. According to the Kremlin, the German leader and his Russian counterpart also discussed the Middle East crisis, and relations between Moscow and Berlin. It is not clear if other world leaders were briefed ahead of Mr Scholz picking up the phone to Russia. But the decision was seized upon by German opposition politicians, who criticised the chancellors intervention. Jurgen Hardt, foreign policy spokesman for the opposition CDU party, said Putin will understand the fact that Scholz called him as a sign of weakness rather than strength. He accused Mr Scholz of having helped Putin to a propaganda win for German domestic political reasons. Germany has been Ukraines second biggest supplier of weapons after the US but has refrained from sending long-range weapons that could strike deep inside Russia. Russia has been buoyed in recent months by its troops gaining ground against Kyivs outmanned and outgunned soldiers. Sir Keir Starmers countless mentions during the election campaign that his father was a toolmaker became such a recurring theme that audiences began to laugh whenever he mentioned it. On one such occasion, he retorted that when he was a young boy, his parents couldnt make ends meet, which isnt a laughing matter. So, why, now he is Prime Minister, is this humble son of a working person inflicting a punitive extra tax on Britains small businessmen and women just like his own father Rodney, who ran the Oxted Tool Company in Surrey? Although Rodney Starmer died in 2018, toolmakers like him remain part of the backbone of this countrys engineering industry and are furious about the way their livelihoods are now threatened by tax rises in Rachel Reeves Budget last month. The Chancellor announced a surprise hike in the National Insurance (NI) contributions that companies must make from next April rising from 13.8 to 15 per cent which the Institute for Fiscal Studies reckons will raise 17 billion for the Treasury. Independent experts have warned that this could result in some firms going out of business. Steve Leigh, of the professional services company Aon, estimates that a small firm with ten employees each earning 35,000 a year will face a 9,200 rise in its NI bill, though other calculations are lower. According to tax advice firm Blick Rothenberg, the total annual NI bill for employing such a worker will rise by 25 per cent. Aamer Younis, manager of Henry Taylor Tools in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, is one of many toolmakers who will have to pay extra NI contributions. Toolmakers are furious at tax rises imposed by Labour. Amanda Coffman, commercial manager of the Thor Hammer Company in Shirley, West Midlands says she is worried the NI increase will prevent her firm from being able to invest in new machinery Aamer Younis, manager of Henry Taylor Tools in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, is one of many toolmakers who'll have to pay increased NI contributions Mr Younis with Phil Price. The manager leads a 13-strong team of craftesmen Henry Taylor Tools has been making handcrafted woodworking pieces using local Sheffield steel everything from chisels to wood turning gouges since 1834. But now, Mr Younis, who manages a 13-strong team of craftsmen, is deeply worried about how such a proud heritage might count for nothing in the fight to survive. He says: If the Prime Ministers father was a toolmaker, why is he not supporting us? We consider ourselves the Rolls-Royce of woodturning and wood carving tools, but this Government seems hell-bent on forcing extra tax burdens on our industry while allowing foreign competitors to escape this unnecessary tax cash grab. Meanwhile, the NI threshold for employers has fallen from 9,100 to 5,000 a year meaning that employers start paying NI on an employees salary at a lower level. However, the Government says it will support smaller firms who have an NI bill of under 100,000 by raising their employment allowance from 5,000 to 10,500. Around 865,000 employers are set to benefit but Henry Taylor Tools is not one of them. Robert Salter, a tax expert at Blick Rothenberg, says that despite only employing 13 staff, the Sheffield firms increased NI bill from April will cost at least an extra 2,000 a year. Mr Younis says: We are being squeezed by taxes every which way we turn and this latest National Insurance contribution hike for businesses is only going to make it even more of a struggle to stay alive. We cannot compete on price with cheap inferior tools made in China and this hike will simply force prices up and make life harder for everyone. He adds: We want the Government to support our call to buy British not open the door to poor quality copies by foreign manufacturers that can fall apart in a couple of years rather than last a lifetime. We have two furnaces manned by three forgers with 30 years each of experience and skill. It breaks my heart that industries like ours could be forced out of business with increased taxes and no support. Why does Starmer not realise that knowledge passed down over many generations is priceless? Once firms such as ours are gone, the skills will be lost forever. Family run saw-making business employee Thomas Finn in Sheffield. The NI threshold for employers has fallen from 9,100 to 5,000 a year Mr Younis's company has been making tools since 1834, but worries that the Government isn't protecting the industry's heritage Starmer lives in an elite Westminster bubble far removed from the grimy reality of doing real work making tools. Did he learn nothing from his dad about our proud industry? Amanda Coffman, commercial manager of the Thor Hammer Company in Shirley, West Midlands, worries that the NI increase will hamper her firms ability to invest in new machinery and its workforce. The increase harms prospects not just for ourselves, but the firms we work with, and also the whole British economy, she says. Her 101-year-old, family-owned business relies on exports for about half of its trade with the US its biggest market. It employs three dozen staff to handmake top quality hammers, mallets and mauls for more than 50 countries. She says: Foreign firms appreciate the quality of our tools but we need the Government to fight our corner because lower labour costs abroad mean we fight on an uneven playing field. Our relationship with America will be especially important and Labour does us no favours with its recent criticism of Donald Trump and sending its staff members to campaign against him. The Labour Government does not realise trade agreements are vital for business. If it lets us down, we face a desperately uncertain future. Ms Coffman adds that a typical toolmaker earns about 28,000 a year. Tax expert Salter says that based on this figure, Thor Hammer will be 14,869 a year out of pocket due to Reeves NI contribution rise. The secret of the companys success goes back to the Second World War when the RAF and Army used its tools to make and repair aircraft and tanks. This gave it an international reputation. The Chancellor announced a surprise hike in the National Insurance (NI) contributions that companies must make from next April rising from 13.8 to 15 per cent Business leaders said the PM is living in an 'elite Westminster bubble far removed from the grimy reality of doing real work making tools' Katie Ellis is a director of the family toolmaking business Thomas Flinn & Co of Sheffield in South Yorkshire. She says: We have heard an awful lot from Keir Starmer bragging about how he comes from working class stock with his father a toolmaker and mother a nurse. But the way our industry is so badly treated, I get the feeling he has never got his hands dirty making tools. Rather than taxing us out of existence, we want the Government to recognise toolmaking as people did when we began a century ago the backbone of the manufacturing industry. I am part of a third-generation, family-run business and we need people to be encouraged to roll up their sleeves and enjoy the reward of an honest days work. It is a big challenge attracting younger people to learn our fabulous trade. We found our last apprentice a year ago on Instagram where he was showing how he was making guitars. Why cant the Government invest in apprenticeship schemes to get more people like him to realise toolmaking is such a rewarding trade? Instead, it clobbers us with an NI bill that is a disincentive to grow into a bigger company. Tax expert Salter says that, despite being a small company, Thomas Flinns extra NI bill will be 1,300. Ms Ellis adds: There is nothing old-fashioned about the toolmaking industry but it needs Government backing not just more taxes to fund the public sector. If we are to keep going and succeed in the future, we desperately need Government support. Starmer, as the son of a toolmaker, seems to have forgotten us. A record number of asylum seekers have managed to secure their stay in the UK by claiming to be gay, official figures have revealed. The figure almost trebled last year from 762 in 2022 to 2133 in 2023, of people who could demonstrate that returning to their homeland would be inhumane because of their sexuality. Under the European Convention of Human Rights people who may be persecuted because of their sexual orientation can claim asylum in the UK. Some of the rise seen this year can be attributed to a backlog in applications created by the pandemic, however sceptics argue that this is some people trying to game the system. Eight countries saw 100 per cent of claims were successful. These were people from Afghanistan, El Salvador, Syria, Eritrea, Myanmar (Burma), Libya, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Yemen. While Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nigeria saw the largest number of successful applicants. Official figures have revealed that a record number of asylum seekers have managed to secure stay in the UK by claiming to be gay. A view of small boats and outboard motors used by people thought to be migrants to cross the Channel at a warehouse facility in Dover, Kent Your browser does not support iframes. Albania saw less than ten per cent of their application were successful, making it the most rejected country. More than 16,000 migrants have arrived in the UK since Sir Keir Starmer became Prime Minister, figures released by the Home Office have shown. In 2023, the figure from January 1, to December 31, was 29,437 on a total of 602 boats. In 2022, a total of 1,100 boats made it across the Channel carrying some 45,755 people - which was the highest number of migrants to make it across the Channel. Civil servants at the department are said to be 'underwhelmed' by the Government's proposals to tackling Channel crossings and reducing illegal migration to the UK. It comes as nine different boats carrying 572 migrants were intercepted crossing the Channel last Saturday. This bring the total number of migrants to arrive so far this year to 32,691 which is up 22 per cent on the same time last year (26,699) but still 18 per cent less than recorded by November 2022 (39,929). More than 16,000 migrants have arrived in the UK since Sir Keir Starmer became Prime Minister, figures released by the Home Office have shown Your browser does not support iframes. This bring the total number of migrants to arrive so far this year to 32,691 which is up 22 per cent on the same time last year (26,699) but still 18 per cent less than recorded by November 2022 (39,929) Some in the Home Office have reportedly claimed 'nobody' understands how the new Border Security Command (BSC) - set up just days after Labour swept to power in July - will work and department officials are 'underwhelmed' by strategy outlined last week. Experts have warned that smugglers will adjust to any changes and that demand for gangs' services is not slowing, according to the i newspaper. The damning revelations will heap further pressure on Labour to get a grip on the small boats crisis, which saw its busiest fornight on the Channel so far this year with the migrants reaching Britain since the new Government took office topping 18,000. A Home Office spokesman said: 'It is important we clear through the asylum backlog and provide protection to individuals fleeing persecution. 'Our processes are underpinned by a robust framework of safeguards and quality checks, ensuring that claims are properly considered, decisions are sound, and that protection is granted to those who genuinely need it.' Prince Andrews daughter Beatrice has been networking at the highest level in the Middle East amid the mystery surrounding her fathers finances. The princess has been rubbing shoulders with some of the regions key power players both in public and behind the scenes. Her visit comes after the Duke of York faced calls to come clean and reveal the secret sources of funding that are bankrolling his stay at Royal Lodge. The elder daughter of the disgraced prince who is believed to have won his eviction battle to stay in his Windsor home after finding the funds to foot his security bill of 3 million a year spoke about artificial intelligence at the Adipec energy conference in Abu Dhabi on November 4. Now the MoS can reveal that the princess attended a private conference hosted by the UAE minister of industry, Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, the day before. Princess Beatrice has been rubbing shoulders with some of the Middle Eastern regions key power players both in public and behind the scenes Last week, the Princess attended an energy and AI summit in Abu Dhabi in which some of the region's most powerful businessmen were in attendance The Duke of York faced calls to come clean and reveal the secret sources of funding that are bankrolling his stay at Royal Lodge The Duke of York is believed to have won his eviction battle to stay in his Windsor home after finding the funds to foot his security bill of 3 million a year She was pictured at the event next to Abu Dhabi crown prince Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who is also the UAEs president. The Al Nahyan royal family are one of the worlds wealthiest monarchies and believed to own billions of pounds worth of property in London. Reporters were not allowed at the meeting, which included the CEOs of Shell and EDF, the vice president of Microsoft, and former Bank of England governor Mark Carney, now the UN special envoy for climate action. US journalist Hadley Gamble, who interviewed Beatrice at the Adipec conference, told this newspaper: There was a general feeling that Beatrice was an unofficial ambassador for the UK. She added: Beatrice was quite literally in the inner circle at a gathering of global energy CEOs, top finance guys and policy makers. In the last month, Princess Beatrice has made several visits to the region, and younger sister Eugenie has also attended events there. Beatrice who is vice president of tech company Afiniti was in Saudi Arabia last month for the Future Investment Initiative, described by Reuters news agency as an opportunity for attendees to forge relations with some of Saudi Arabias biggest companies and its $925 billion sovereign wealth fund. The head of Britain's leading independent economic think tank has launched a stinging attack on Rachel Reeves, singling out tax rises in her Budget as 'ludicrous.' Paul Johnson, head of the highly influential Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), said his head 'literally hit the table' when the Chancellor announced a rise in stamp duty and the freeze on winter fuel duty. Johnson and the IFS are respected by politicians on all sides for their impartiality and the quality of their analysis. He was this weekend described as 'Westminster's fiscal referee' and 'the thinking person's fiscal crumpet' in an acknowledgement of the unique role he plays in Britain's political system, analysing the Budget and cutting through any 'spin'. All politicians are eager for his approval so his outspoken comments on the Budget will hit Reeves hard. 'I did not forsee the rise in employer national insurance contributions, ' he told the Times in an interview. 'I understood the manifesto to rule it out.' Johnson added that stamp duty tax is the most 'damaging tax we have' and warned that increasing it would only make 'things even more immobile and increase rents even further.' The chancellor's decision against increasing fuel duties was 'ludicrous,' he said. Paul Johnson, the head of the respected Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) said his head 'literally hit the table' after Rachel Reeves' 'ludicrous' Budget Reeves was this weekend blamed for talking down the economy as fresh figures revealed growth had slowed to a crawl. The data from the Office of National Statistics showed gross domestic product grew by just 0.1 per cent in the three months to the end of September. Critics blamed the Chancellor for the slowdown during her first three months in office, saying she had talked down the economy, leaving businesses and households hesitant to spend. On taking power the Chancellor repeatedly insisted that the economic inheritance from the Tories was the worst for any new government since the Second World War. Business groups warned Reeves is set to make things even worse after her move to hike employers' national insurance contributions in the Budget. That will raise 25bn and could cost 100,000 jobs, analysts predict. Critics blamed the Chancellor for the slowdown during her first three months in office, saying she had talked down the economy Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride said: 'I'm afraid they're reaping to a degree what they've done in terms of talking the economy down. 'And of course now what they've done is follow it up with a Budget that has ramped up taxes, particularly taxes that are going to bear down on growth.' Johnson is also sceptical about the long-term strength of the UK economy due to the ageing population which he says is the biggest issue facing the country. He said: 'Pensions, social care and health spending are all going to go up. 'If we don't want to tax or borrow even more, something else will have to go down. We need to decide what.' The heartbroken father of a middle school cheerleader who was stabbed to death with a pocket knife revealed how he led cops to her body by tracking her location on an app. Michael Copeland spoke out following the brutal murder of his 13-year-old daughter Savannah Copeland three weeks ago. The Tennessee dad recounted how he began to panic after his daughter vanished from her Powell home overnight and did not get in touch for several hours. Using the Life360 app he was able to track her location, which led investigators to make the grim discovery on a dirt trail not far away. The grieving dad admitted there is, 'theres not a lot of joy or genuine happiness' in his life right now, but chose to share a message of sympathy rather than hate. 'I think it was a lack of compassion a lack of empathy that took my daughter's life,' he told Fox19. 'I'm not going to allow to be filled with that kind of rage, it's going to be filled with compassion - it's the only way I know how to defeat evil.' Police have charged 15-year-old Malakiah Harris with the 'senseless' murder. The heartbroken father of murdered middle school cheerleader Savannah Copeland said he will not allow his 'heart to be filled with rage'. Copeland told how his suspicions first became raised when he did not hear from his daughter for several hours after she went missing from her Powell home over night. Michael Copeland chose to share a message of compassion but admitted 'theres not a lot of joy or genuine happiness' in his life at the moment A memorial has since been set up at the spot where the Powell Middle Schooler's body was found. Her cheerleading team has also revealed it will be handing out an annual award in honor of the late teen which will be given to those who exemplify the teen's character. 'Spunkiness, eagerness and kind a go-getter attitude I guess you can say,' Copeland explained, adding that he was grateful to see his daughter's memory will live on. 'It helps to restore my faith in God and everyone around us,' he added. Savannah's body was discovered on a dirt trail behind a community pool in Powell, just outside Knoxville a day after she disappeared. She had been stabbed to death multiple times with a pocket knife by a suspect she met with the night before she was found. Police arrested and charged Harris with second degree murder in connection to the death. He is due in court next on January 15. Investigators have not released any motive or explained the relationship between the two at this stage. The Powell Middle School cheerleader was found dead a day after she went missing overnight from her home Police were called to reports of a body on a dirt trail in the community of Powell three weeks ago Copeland is survived by her parents, as well as her twin brother and another brother. 'Her beautiful smile lit up the room,' the family wrote in her obituary. 'She loved her family, she loved her friends, and she loved art. Savannah attended Powell Middle School and was a talented student as well as an accomplished athleteexcelling in gymnastics, karate, and cheerleading.' The notice described her as an aspiring forensic anthropologist who had set her sights on attended the University of Tennessee. 'She enjoyed scary stories, drawing, and pop music,' the obituary added, explaining she and her family have been longtime members of the Powell United Methodist Church. 'Savannah will be forever missed by everyone who knew her and loved her,' the statement added. A former longtime mayor of a New York village is at the center of explosive allegations involving workplace misconduct, racist ramblings and drug use. Allegations against Peter Imbert, 65, have rocked the small Long Island village of Amityville where he served as mayor for 16 years from 1997 to 2013, while also acting as head of an insurance company, RCI Industries. Former employee Ralph Guarino, 39, is alleging Imbert pressured his staff into taking THC edibles and made racist remarks while head of the company, in a lawsuit filed with the New York State Division of Human Rights. Among the disturbing comments, Gaurino alleges Imbert once told him, 'whites should stay with whites and blacks should stay with blacks.' Gaurino claims Imbert also created his own kind of Amityville horror with a hostile and demeaning environment for his employees at RCI, and says he was forced into carrying out menial tasks that included cleaning up after his boss' dogs and guinea pigs. The lawsuit paints a picture of a workplace ruled by fear and intimidation, with Imbert allegedly using his position of power to manipulate and degrade his employees. Among the more unusual instructions Guarino claims to have been forced to undertake was to 'break glass, purchase anti-freeze and cat food' so Imbert could poison stray cats in the area. Guarino claims he was also invited round to watch his teenage girls in bikinis swim in the pool on his property and shoot geese. Republican Peter Imbert, 65, was the Mayor of Amityville from 1997 to 2013, while also head of RCI Industries a metal manufacturer Amityville is a village of 9,500 people on New York's Long Island in Suffolk County Ralph Guarino, 39, claims Imbert created a hostile and demeaning environment for his employees at RCI and says he was forced to carry out menial tasks that included cleaning up after his boss' dogs and guinea pigs Imbert is also alleged to have kept a secret room stocked with 'illegal weaponry,' including AK-47s and AR-15s. Among the allegations, Guarino also accuses Imbert of ordering him to carry out both bizarre and degrading tasks. They include looking after his marijuana plants while also carrying out basic housekeeping duties including keeping a stock of vape pens, beer, bottled water, shampoo and toilet paper. Guarino, a maintenance worker at the firm, is alleged to have been 'summoned' by Imbert each day to his home to 'play pool and get stoned' while consuming THC edibles. 'For the last 10 years, I've constantly been on edge around him, just ready for him to snap,' Guarino told the New York Post. 'For two years, every day, I did anything he wanted. I fear the guy. He once told me he has "No one to answer to but God."' Guarino claims he was the only person in Imbert's company who was given such tasks which he claims saw him subjected to alleged misconduct and humiliation. He claims how Imbert would sound off about his faltering sex life with his wife Diane and that his own father never liked his spouse after she would refuse to play along when he would jokingly grab her bottom. The lawsuit paints a picture of a workplace ruled by fear and intimidation, with Imbert allegedly using his position of power to manipulate and degrade his employees He claims how Imbert would sound off about his faltering sex life with his wife Diane, seen left Guarino's mother Irene, pictured, also works as a vice president at RCI and has filed a second separate complaint against Imbert over how her son was treated If Guarino kicked up a fuss and complained about Imbert's requests, he claims his boss routinely humiliated him, calling him a 'chicken sh**' and a 'conniver.' Guarino's mother Irene also works as a vice president at RCI and has filed a second separate complaint against Imbert over what she claims was retaliation against her son after she had issues with how her son was allegedly being treated at the company. Both Guarino and his mother continue to work for the firm and are now seeking unspecified damages for what they describe as a toxic work environment. 'This was an extremely hostile work environment, and I am proud of my clients for having the courage and bravery to prosecute these discrimination and retaliation claims,' the Guarinos' lawyer, David H. Rosenberg, told DailyMail.com. Aside from this latest lawsuit, Amityville became famous internationally due to the chilling events surrounding a house at 112 Ocean Avenue, now commonly referred to as the "Amityville Horror" house. The town's notoriety stems from a combination of true crime and alleged paranormal phenomena which was turned into both a book and film during the 1970s. SAS personnel have been warned they face a life-threatening condition caused by years of stress unique to the special forces but the MOD refuses to recognise it. Called Operator Syndrome, it is triggered by the mental and biological stress of fighting in Iraq, Afghanistan and Syria. The condition first identified in the US is distinct from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and is specific to highly trained special forces, but SAS soldiers are furious because the Ministry of Defence refuses to recognise it. Symptoms include traumatic brain injury, headaches, substance abuse, sleep issues, stress and problems with sexual health and intimacy. One former SAS Regimental Sergeant Major last night branded the MoDs stance a national disgrace and called on the Government to step in to aid veterans. The Mail on Sunday has also been told that troops who have the illness are travelling at their own cost to the US for treatment. The threat to serving and former special forces known as operators was revealed in an SAS Regimental Association newsletter to members. It said years of killing and tackling terrorists have a mental and biological impact on soldiers who spend many months taking part in covert operations in war zones. John Healey, Secretary of State for Defence, visits British servicemen in Cyprus last month As the face of the Ministry of Defence, Mr Healey has received criticism over his department's refusal to recognise 'operator syndrome' as an official condition suffered by servicemen 'Operators Syndrome' is believed to not exist by the MoD, despite a number of scientific journals stating otherwise The syndrome differs from PTSD, which develops in response to atraumatic incident such as seeing a comrade killed in action. Operator Syndrome is instead caused by the extraordinarily high cost on a special forces soldiers body from prolonged chronic stress and physical demands, added the newsletter. The MoD does not believe the syndrome exists, despite details being published in scientific journals. A six-year study in the International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine concluded the syndrome was the natural consequences of an extraordinarily high level of stress experienced by special forces. An MoD spokesman said: Medical experts have assessed there is no evidence to suggest Operator Syndrome is a unique syndrome linked to a specific military cohort. No matter what symptoms our personnel may have, we will always provide them with the specialist medical care they need. Donald Trump and Elon Musk could fall out over China if massive tariffs are levied on the nation, it has been claimed. The pair became strong allies during the election campaign and the billionaire was made co-chief of the 'Department of Government Efficiency'. The Tesla and SpaceX boss even shelled out hundreds of millions of dollars to bolster Trump's campaign. Though they agree on many issues, the pair may be opposed on what to do about China, which experts warned could split them apart. 'Trump and Musk could fall out because Musk ends up opposing tough economic policies on China,' Neil Thomas, fellow at the Asia Society Policy Institute, told Newsweek. Trump has already nominated Marco Rubio to be secretary of state and Mike Waltz to be national security advisor - both hawks on China, likely to push a hard line. He talked tough on China also, both as president the first time and during the campaign against Kamala Harris. One of Trump's signature policies is up to 60 per cent tariffs on Chinese goods entering the US and removing some trade perks the country enjoys. Donald Trump and Elon Musk became strong allies during the election campaign and Musk was made co-chief of the 'Department of Government Efficiency' - but they could still clash 'We have, right now, an $800 billion trade deficit with the world. So think of that,' he said in a speech in 2018 while he was president. 'So let's say we have 500 to 375, but let's say we have 500 with China, but we have 800 total with the world. That would mean that China is more than half. 'So we're going to get it taken care of. And, frankly, it's going to make us a much stronger, much richer nation.' The US actually has an $800 billion trade deficit with China alone. Musk, by contrast, often bent over backwards to make nice with China and its authoritarian regime as it is a huge and growing car market. About 22.5 per cent of Tesla revenue comes from sales in China, which is tipped to soon be the biggest buyers of electric cars. Musk routinely complies with Chinese Communist Party demands, including to make a change to Tesla cars in 2021. He also shut down his factory for four days in 2022 during a Covid outbreak when he was told to, despite calling California health authorities 'fascists' for making the same order in 2020. Tesla CEO Elon Musk, left, shakes hands with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang as he arrives for a meeting at the Zhongnanhai leadership compound in Beijing Tesla Inc CEO Elon Musk poses with Tesla China-made Model 3 vehicle owners onstage during a delivery event at its Shanghai factory in China Musk speaks at the groundbreaking ceremony for Tesla's Shanghai Gigafactory in Shanghai Tariffs on China are also not in Musk's best interests and he railed against ones President Joe Biden put on earlier this year. 'Neither Tesla nor I asked for these tariffs. Things that inhibit freedom of exchange or distort the market are not good,' he said at a tech conference in Paris. 'Tesla competes quite well in the market in China with no tariffs and no deferential support. I'm in favor of no tariffs.' Oxford University presidential historian Laura Smith said Trump may have appointed people with diverse views on China because his policies are unclear. 'He may have more disagreements during his second term based on policy with his increased exposure to different issues,' she said. Trump talked tough on China also, both as president the first time and during the campaign against Kamala Harris Musk speaks as Chinese Premier Li Keqiang listens during a meeting at the Zhongnanhai leadership compound in Beijing 'The fact that he has chosen people with diverse views on China to serve may indicate his current lack of decisive policy.' Smith said it was also possible Musk could end up shaping Trump's policies on China, or at least moderating them. 'Now that Trump and Musk appear so close, it would seem that Trump would want to keep him on side considering the wealth of resources Musk has to denigrate an opponent,' she said. Thomas said if this happened, Trump may instead clash with cabinet members like Rubio and Waltz. Donald Trump's team is examining the possibility of deporting illegal migrants to Rwanda in a process similar to the ditched Conservative policy. While the expulsion of illegal immigrants was a focal point of Trump's election campaign, the precise details of how he intends to accomplish his goal of removing as many as 20 million people from US soil have largely remained unknown. However, one option he is reportedly considering is 'third-party safe countries', similar to Rishi Sunak's now abandoned Rwanda plan, in which migrants who crossed the Channel illegally were to be flown to Rwanda to seek asylum there instead. A source close to Trump's camp told the Sun on Sunday: 'Trump campaigned on a promise to crack down on illegal immigration - and he is determined to stick to it. 'His team is looking at the Rwanda scheme. He is considering deporting illegal migrants to Rwanda and other countries so they cannot stay on American soil.' However, any attempt to deport migrants to Rwanda is likely to be challenged in the courts in a similar way to the UK governments attempt. Donald Trump 's team is examining the possibility of deporting illegal migrants to Rwanda in a process similar to the ditched the Conservative policy Immigrants line up at a remote U.S. Border Patrol processing center after crossing the U.S.-Mexico border While the expulsion of illegal immigrants was a focal point of Trump's election campaign, the precise details of how he intends to accomplish his goal of removing as many as 20 million people from US soil have largely remained unknown The Mail on Sunday has also reported that once in the Oval office after inauguration day Trump will immediately sign a series of executive orders, the most radical of which will be to close the border. Citing an immigration crisis, he will temporarily shut the southern border to give officials a chance to clear a huge backlog of cases. Trump claims that the Joe Biden administration allowed more than 10 million people to illegally enter the US, bringing the total number of illegal immigrants to 20 million. A source told the Mail on Sunday: 'Trump isn't a monster. He understands many asylum seekers may face death if they have to return to their country of origin. There will be safe third-party countries which will house these people at some cost to the US taxpayers. But they will be the exception, not the rule.' Mr Trump has recently nominated Tom Homan to be his border czar, with the former acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), having strong views on migration. Earlier this year when asked if there was any way to prevent illegal adults from being separated from their children who are US citizens he replied 'yes, they can all be deported together.' On top of that he warned: 'No one's off the table. If you're here illegally, you better be looking over your shoulder.' U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to Thomas Homan, acting director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, during a round table meeting with members of law enforcement Migrants wait between barbed wire near the US border wall, in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico, 26 May 2024 Thomas Homan (pictured) warned: 'No one's off the table. If you're here illegally, you better be looking over your shoulder' Migrants seeking asylum in the United States gather near the border wall after crossing a razor wire fence deployed to inhibit their crossing into the United States, while members of the Texas National Guard stand guard, as seen from Ciudad Juarez, Mexico Trump has become the first president in over 130 years and only the second in history to win a non-consecutive second term. His defeat of Vice President Kamala Harris marks a remarkable return for a twice-impeached president, who left office in 2021 on the back of claims that he had incited an assault on the U.S. Capitol building, and who was convicted earlier this year on multiple counts of business fraud. The 78-year-old Trump will also become the oldest president ever inaugurated, beating President Joe Biden's record by five months. In the end, Trump won the electoral college by a thumping 86-vote margin, swept all seven battleground states, and made consequential gains in blue cities and suburbs and among Latino and black voters. Dogs that watch their owners argue will try to console the person they think is the victim while avoiding the aggressor, a new study suggests. Researchers also found that the pets showed stress-related behaviour when witnessing the row, even though it wasnt aimed at them. The team studied 23 dogs of different breeds, including a Siberian husky, border collie, poodle and dachshund. They then asked two members of each household to pretend to quarrel in their own home while their pet watched. The owners both tried to grab an object placed between them, before the aggressor started yelling at the victim, taking possession of the item, staring angrily and waving their arm. Afterwards, in the post-conflict stage, both owners sat down without looking at each other. The researchers videoed the scenes so they could analyse the animals behaviour. Researchers also found that the pets showed stress-related behaviour when witnessing the row, even though it wasnt aimed at them Dr Mariana Bentosela said: 'During the post-conflict stage, dogs preferred to approach the victim first rather than approaching the aggressor' During the conflict stage dogs gazed more at the victims than the aggressors, and stayed close to them, which are so-called affiliative behaviours, said lead researcher Dr Mariana Bentosela, from Buenos Aires University in Argentina. During the post-conflict stage, dogs preferred to approach the victim first rather than approaching the aggressor. Also, they showed a lower rate of contact with the aggressor, which can be interpreted as avoidance. Dr Bentosela and her team suggested that dogs see humans as part of their group and that alleviating the victims discomfort, may be a conflict management strategy that favours group cohesion and is an essential part of their bond with humans. Dogs watching the arguments also showed more stress-related behaviours such as crouching, ears down, breathing rapidly through their opened mouth, tail down or yawning. It could be that the dogs were experiencing emotional contagion from the humans or be afraid the aggression would be redirected at them, the researchers wrote in their study, published in the journal Ethology. Sitting at the keyboard, his expression flits between intense concentration and a megawatt grin: Christopher Hawksley is in his element. The 28-year-old has cerebral palsy, autism, mobility issues and limited speech but he is also a talented pianist. Now in a new care home with space to practise his craft, Christopher plays for hours. Hes even recording an album. Its his passion, explains Christophers father Humphrey, a former BBC foreign correspondent. As soon as he starts playing, his eyes light up. I dont think there can be any doubt: hes happy. Its incredible especially after all the difficulties weve faced. These joyful sessions which mark a victory for The Mail on Sundays long-running Dignity For Disabled People campaign would have seemed impossible even a few months ago. For more than five years, like thousands of other disabled people, Christopher was trapped in unsuitable accommodation. This newspaper first reported in 2019 that he was stuck in a temporary care home only set up to provide basic care. With hardly any exercise and minimal activities, he would scream and rock backwards and forwards in frustration. In a heartbreaking interview last year, Christophers father reflected on the life-support his son needed as a baby and confessed: Maybe keeping him alive wasnt the right thing to do after all. Christopher Hawksley at home with father Humphrey is recording an album Humphrey Hawksley reporting from Beijing with camera man in Tianamen Square Finally, however, that gloom has lifted as Christopher now has a permanent home in a new supported living centre called The Hamptons in Peterborough. He enjoys trips to the charity Beat This which runs music workshops for people with additional needs, and does aqua-therapy at the Kingfisher Centre for people with disabilities. After just three months, Christopher is thriving. The move has also dispelled his parents earlier despair. Humphrey, 69, said: Things feel very different. Yes, its been a struggle but its been worth it. Although Christophers case is heartening, experts say the length of time it took for him to find a permanent home illustrates a broken system. There are an estimated 1.6million people with complex disabilities in the UK today according to disability charity Sense meaning they are affected by two conditions such as sight loss, hearing loss, autism or learning disability. And, in June, a report from the Government body, the Directors of Adult Social Services, showed the number of people with complex needs who, like Christopher, require constant attention from two carers at once, rose by more than seven per cent in a year to nearly 50,000. Worryingly, the same report claimed 90 per cent of local authorities which are responsible for housing those who need full-time care say they can no longer afford to meet their obligation. As a result, experts say a growing number of vulnerable patients are ending up in unsuitable even unsafe housing. Too many people are being unlawfully denied care they are entitled to, says Kari Gerstheimer of the charity Access Social Care. Especially patients who are the most expensive to look after, who require lots of skilled staff and equipment. Its a tragedy. Christopher one of triplets was born more than three months premature in February 1996. His siblings died within a week. He spent weeks on life-support. The 28-year-old has cerebral palsy, autism, mobility issues and limited speech but he is also a talented pianist He was left with complex disabilities and has required round-the-clock medical assistance since birth. Later he went to Treloars College in Hampshire, a residential school for disabled youngsters. Christopher eventually had to leave when he became an adult. His parents identified 57 facilities that might offer him a permanent home. Only two were suitable but neither had space when he needed it. Instead, in 2019, he was moved to a respite care home designed for brief stays an hour and a half from the familys home in west London. Humphrey said: It was only supposed to be a few weeks but he ended up staying almost five years. Humphrey says the problem does not sit with the local council alone. While the Government funds social care, many areas contract private companies to house and care for the disabled. Private companies have the right to refuse someone with an array of needs like Christopher, says Humphrey. In 2023, he was contacted by the private firm Magic Life, which runs the centre where Christopher now lives. He was told a room had opened up and Christopher was a suitable candidate. Magic Life has been brilliant, says Humphrey. Hes getting daily exercise and different people talking to him stimulation he didnt have before. He added: Without The Mail on Sunday coverage, Christopher wouldnt be where he is now. Private childrens home operators in England making excessive profits from vulnerable youngsters in their care face a crackdown. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson will this week unveil plans to take action against rip off private providers over-charging local authorities for the vital care. Her invention comes amid claims a lack of enough childrens homes was leaving councils at the mercy of extortionate costs from private operators to meet their legal duty to place vulnerable youngsters in care. Spending on looked-after children rocketed from 3.1 billion in 2009/10 to 7 billion in 2022/23. And last night, Ms Phillipson told the Mail on Sunday: I am calling time on years of tolerance of rip-off providers making excessive profits from vulnerable children and leaving councils in financial jeopardy. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, pictured, will this week unveil plans to take action against rip off private providers over-charging local authorities for the vital care. Her invention comes amid claims a lack of enough childrens homes was leaving councils at the mercy of extortionate costs from private operators to meet their legal duty to place vulnerable youngsters in care To deliver the quality of care this countrys children deserve, we are lifting the curtain on profit-making at the expense of quality care for vulnerable children. This would empower local authorities to make sure more of taxpayers hard-earned cash is channelled to giving children in care the best start in life. Two years ago, a Competition and Markets Watchdog report raised the alarm over how profitable the childrens home and foster-care sector was to some suppliers. It said fifteen large operators had steady operating profit margins of 22.6 per cent between 2016 and 2020. However, private providers said some of their services can cost less than their council equivalents. Ms Phillipsons officials said there were currently about 83,000 children in looked after care across England. Anthony Albanese has hinted that Australians will going to the polls in May next year. The Prime Minister dropped the date during a Sky News interview while in Peru for the APEC 2024 summit before downplaying his comments. Asked about the possibility of a March election, Mr Albanese gave stated the election would be held in May but then backtracked. 'We have a budget scheduled for March and the election will be in May,' Mr Albanese said. When asked directly if the election would be in May, Mr Albanese was less definite. 'Well, that's when it's due. It could be beforehand,' he said. Tuesday's Newspoll, which is widely regarded as the authoritative survey of voting intentions, showed Mr Albanese's Labor government trailing the Coalition 49 to 51 per cent on the two party vote. Labor's slumping primary vote at 33 per cent badly trailed the Coalition's 40 per cent. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has dropped a major hit that Australians will be going to the polls next May Compounding the trifecta of bad news for Labor, Mr Albanese's disapproval rating had soared to a whopping 55 per cent of voters compared to just 40 per cent who were satisfied with how he was performing at Prime Minister. The one thing that may cheer Labor supporters is that no federal government has been turfed out after only one term since 1931, when the Great Depression saw Labor's James Scullin handed a then record loss after an equally stunning win only two years before. Daily Mail Political Editor Peter van Onselen reported this week that Labor MPs feared Mr Albanese was dragging the party's vote down. One unnanmed MP said Mr Albanese 'comes across as a class traitor now'. The perception Mr Albanese had abandoned his social housing childhood to pursue a life of perks and privilege was bolstered by revelations the Prime Minister received regular Qantas upgrades and purchased of a $4.3million clifftop mansion. The clifftop home is on a 790sqm block of land and a short walk from the beach. Mr Albanese will share the home with his fiancee Jodie Haydon, whose family live in the area. The house also boasts a double garage and cathedral-style ceilings. The PM recently listed his three-bedroom townhouse in Dulwich Hill with a $1.9million guide. Mr Albanese also owns a mortgage-free federation bungalow in Marrickville, while he lives for free between Kirribilli House and The Lodge in Canberra. That Marrickville home earns him between $1,300 and $1,400 every week in rent. He also earns $564,356 a year as prime minister. Angry Chicago residents blasted Mayor Brandon Johnson's proposed $300 million property tax hike as a way to cover costs of dealing with migrants that have flooded the city over the past year. A heated city council meeting culminated in a unanimous rejection of the plan after locals expressed their fury in vicious outbursts at the mayor in . The furious residents accused Johnson, who has been branded the country's 'most hated mayor,' of prioritizing undocumented immigrants over the city's own citizens and resent paying more in property taxes. In the spring, Johnson unveiled that he was seeking $70 million of taxpayer money to help some 38,000 migrants that have flooded the city. The $70 million would add to the $150 million already set aside in the 2024 budget for the response to deal with the migrant problem. At the time, Johnson briefed city council members on plans in April to push through the funds to keep the city's response to helping migrants afloat. The money would be used to help feed and house all of the migrants that have been brought to Chicago and its suburbs in the last 18 months. But now appears tensions have reached boiling point as Johnson now wants an extra $300 million with none of the proceeds seemingly going to Chicagoans. In a heated Chicago City Council meeting, Mayor Brandon Johnson came under fire from furious residents who have blasted a proposed $300 million property tax hike Among the most vocal critics was Tyjuan Sims, who confronted Johnson directly, accusing him of neglecting Chicagoans while offering protection to undocumented migrants Among the most vocal critics was Tyjuan Sims, who confronted Johnson directly, accusing him of neglecting Chicagoans while offering protection to undocumented migrants. Johnson wants to hike property taxed with less than two months before the city has to pass a new budget. 'The feds need to address you! The DOJ needs to address you! And hopefully Donald Trump will address you,' Sims states as his voice bellowed throughout the chamber. 'You're gonna protect the undocumented, while you're gonna allow for the citizens in Chicago to suffer under your, what? Three percent?' The proposed tax hike would raise homeowners' property taxes by up to 4 percent and comes as Chicago grapples with a nearly $1 billion budget deficit. All 50 City Council members have voted against the tax increase. Johnson has defended the measure, arguing its necessity to avoid layoffs of critical city workers, including police officers and firefighters. But his explanation did little to calm the crowd. Residents, many sporting MAGA gear, seized the opportunity to express their contempt for Johnson's policies, which they view as overly lenient towards the city's ever-growing migrant population. Another resident, Dennis White, wearing a black MAGA hat, taunted the mayor. Jessica Jackson, dressed in red, likened Johnson to a 'schoolyard bully' and issued a stark warning to the mayor Another resident, Dennis White, wearing a black MAGA hat, taunted the mayor All 50 City Council members have voted against the mayor's $300million tax increase 'How does it feel that Trump is in office right now?' White asked as he warned of a shift in city politics. 'You see, Mayor Brandon Johnson, you underestimate us. You underestimate the black people and underestimate Chicago red. 'We are a thorn in your side. If you don't stop what you're doing, we're going to take matter into our own hands. Illinois is turning purple. We gonna turn red. 'You know that Trump had pulled 45 percent of the voter in the state of Illinois, 37 percent in Chicago. That's the statistic. That means that Illinois is turning purple. We gonna turn red.' Jessica Jackson, dressed in red, likened Johnson to a 'schoolyard bully' and issued a stark warning: 'Those of us who grew up on the south side and west side of Chicago, we all know at some point that bully gets cornered in an alley and everybody come at him. And he ain't gonna have nobody to help him. That's you! 'So you and the rest of 'em that know what time it is, y'all come on. You leave that loss where he is. He's a loser! He's a loser!' Migrants living at the Chicago Police Department's 15th District are seen outside the station in September Since last year, over 38,000 migrants, mostly from Venezuela, have arrived in Chicago by bus from the Texas border. Chicago, which is a sanctuary city has been housing the asylum seekers at police stations, O'Hare International Airport, and city-run shelters Another resident, Mrs. Lawrence, who was wearing a 'Make America Godly Again' shirt, took aim at Johnson's low approval ratings. '14 percent rating is what you appear to have, Brandon Johnson,' she said, referencing a recent poll. 'What about our real estate? Because, see, we paid for these properties for a purpose and not for you to go touchin' it with $300 million that you want to syphon out of the citizens' pockets,' Lawrence said, criticizing the tax hike. 'Get rid of the illegals! And that will take your money right back. Start it off with that!', she yelled. Although the City Council's unanimous vote against the tax hike is largely symbolic, it sends a clear message to Johnson as he navigates difficult budget negotiations. Residents are continuing to voice their disapproval and demanding that city leadership focus on their needs first. A severed head found washed up on a beach belonged to a teenager who drowned after heroically saving his sister. Victor Enrique Castaneda Jr, 19, and his sister, Hailey Clements, got in to trouble while swimming at South Point Beach in Miami on November 9. The siblings were dragged out to sea by a rip current and Victor 'threw' his sister away from the dangerous waters before disappearing beneath the waves. His last act was enough for two other swimmers to reach her and bring her to shore safely without injury. Police searched frantically for Victor but he was never found alive, and his family hoped they would at least be able to recover his body. Then on Tuesday a severed head washed up on Key Biscayne, an island off the coast of Miami, shocking beachgoers after it was found by a worker raking the sand. Police took the grisly find for examination by the medical examiner and did not initially make the connection to Victor's drowning three days earlier. Detectives didn't even rule out homicide as an explanation for how the head got there. Victor Enrique Castaneda Jr, 19, (pictured at his high school graduation with family) drowned saving his little sister from a rip current at a beach in Miami The siblings were dragged out to sea by a rip current and Victor 'threw' his sister away from the dangerous waters before disappearing beneath the waves Victo with his sister Jennifer, 34, who mourned him online after his death But by Friday they confirmed the head belonged to Victor, though the rest of his remains are still lost to the ocean. 'The Miami Beach Police Department extends prayers and condolences to the family,' said Cmdr. Shantell Mitchell said. 'Our victim advocates will continue to provide support to the family during this time.' Police said they would continue to piece together exactly what happened to Victory after his sister lost sight of him, to give his family closure. Victor's older sister called him 'the best part of the family' and praised his selfless sacrifice that saved Jessica's life. 'A hero - life has a way of taking the best people. There was a time when he was all that kept this family going. Pure, genuine, so full of life,' she wrote on Instagram. Another older sister, Jessica, 34, posted photos in memorial of the beloved brother who saved Hailey's life, sharing her 'insurmountable' pain. 'My heart is completely and irreparably shattered. Your absence will never be accepted. No words could ever describe how much I love you Victor,' she wrote. A severed head washed up on Key Biscayne, an island off the coast of Miami, shocking beachgoers after it was found by a worker raking the sand By Friday police confirmed the head belonged to Victor, though the rest of his remains are still lost to the ocean 'To the top of the highest mountain and to the depths deeper than the titanic, I love you little brother. I love you so much. 'I will miss you every second of every minute of every single day for the rest of my life. 'I will dream of your smile and your infectious laugh until I find you in the next life, in every life I will find you.' Victor's family collectively mourned him on a fundraiser for his funeral that has amassed more than $26,000 in donations. 'He died a hero, using all his strength to save his sister from drowning,' they wrote. His family accepted that their loved one drowned, but died a hero - and they want to recover his body for closure Victor's family collectively mourned him on a fundraiser for his funeral that has amassed more than $26,000 in donations 'Even before this, Victor was a hero in every sense. He sacrificed his dreams to join the army, all to provide a home for his family. 'Serving others was always his true calling.' Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and president of the ruling National Conference (NC), Dr Farooq Abdullah Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and president of the ruling National Conference (NC), Dr Farooq Abdullah said on Sunday that as long as the national capital is not shifted from New Delhi to somewhere else, the choking pollution in the city is not going to go away. Talking to media persons here, Farooq Abdullah said that the national capital should be shifted somewhere else from Delhi. Unless the national capital is shifted somewhere else from Delhi, pollution affecting the lives of the people there is not going to go away, he said. The national capital has been grappling with high pollution levels which remained in the 'severe' category for the fifth day in a row on Sunday, with an air quality index (AQI) of 428 at 7.30 a.m. Asked about the performance of the Omar Abdullah-headed NC government in the union territory, which has completed one month in office, the elder Abdullah said, We have achieved much during this short period. We have five years still left in power and all that we have promised to people in our manifesto will be achieved. He questioned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president, Mehbooba Muftis right to question the intentions of the NC with regard to its election manifesto. Why is she bothered about us? We said clearly in our manifesto what we want to achieve and all that will be achieved, Dr Abdullah asserted. Asked about the security meetings being held in the UT wherein Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has not been invited, Dr Abdullah said, We are in power just for one month so far. Dont worry about this. Everything will happen in due time. He said this in reply to a question about the demand being raised by some Hindu organisations that their community should also have a board like the Waqf board of Muslims, he said the matter is being debated in Parliament. He said that when the Parliament meets on November 25, these issues can be discussed in the House. Donald Trump is compiling a list of senior military officers who could face being court-martialed for the disastrous 2021 Afghanistan withdrawal, reports say. His transition team is said to be exploring charges as severe as treason, although the legal reasoning remains unclear as they were acting under Biden's orders. 'They're taking it very seriously,' a source said to NBC News, stressing the gravity of the discussions. President-elect Donald Trump has been a vocal critic of the withdrawal from Afghanistan, condemning it as a 'humiliation' and 'the most embarrassing day in the history of our country.' The chaotic exit in August 2021, marked by the Taliban's rapid takeover, the deadly bombing at Kabul airport's Abbey Gate, and a botched U.S. airstrike, left 13 U.S. service members dead alongside more than 170 Afghan civilians dead. As U.S. forces were trying to help Americans and Afghans flee as the Islamist Taliban movement took control of the country, a suicide attack at the entrance to the airport killed the group of Americans, compounding the U.S. sense of defeat after two decades of war. The transition team is reportedly considering the formation of a commission to examine the withdrawal in detail, scrutinizing decision-making processes and the military's execution of the operation. The commission would also investigate whether senior military officers bear responsibility for the disastrous outcome. The chaotic exit in August 2021, marked by the Taliban 's rapid takeover, the deadly bombing at Kabul airport's Abbey Gate, and a botched U.S. airstrike, left 13 U.S. service members dead alongside more than 170 Afghan civilians dead Tragedy struck the operation when a suicide bomber detonated his payload at the airport. Some 13 U.S. troops were killed along with at least 170 Afghans Matt Flynn, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for counternarcotics and global threats, is reportedly helping lead the effort on whether charges should be brought Matt Flynn, a former deputy assistant secretary of defense for counternarcotic and global threats, is reportedly helping lead the effort. Trump's team frames this as part of a broader review of U.S. involvement in Afghanistan, from the initial deployment to the final chaotic withdrawal. Trump's choice for secretary of defense, Fox News personality Pete Hegseth, has also been a harsh critic of the withdrawal. In his book The War on Warriors, Hegseth described it as a 'humiliating retreat' and slammed Pentagon leaders for their failure to prevent the deadly consequences. 'The next president of the United States needs to radically overhaul Pentagon senior leadership to make us ready to defend our nation and defeat our enemies. Lots of people need to be fired. The debacle in Afghanistan, of course, is the most glaring example,' he wrote. 'These generals lied. They mismanaged. They violated their oath. They failed. They disgraced our troops, and our nation. They got people killed, unnecessarily. 'And, to this moment, they keep their jobs. Worse, they continue to actively erode our military and its values - by capitulating to civilians with radical agendas,' Hegseth penned in his book. He further argued that many senior military officials retained their positions despite these failures, calling them 'an embarrassment, with stars still on their shoulders.' A U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III safely transported approximately 640 Afghan citizens from Hamid Karzai International Airport on August 15, 2021. The evacuees were flown from Kabul to Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar sat on the floor of the plane's cargo hold A U.S. soldier points his gun towards an Afghan passenger at the Kabul airport in August 2021 as thousands of people mobbed the city's airport trying to flee the Taliban's feared hardline brand of Islamist rule A man pulls a girl to get inside Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan August 16, 2021 The transition team is reportedly considering recalling certain commanders to active duty, a move that would allow them to face potential charges. Whether treason charges could be brought remains uncertain, but the team could pursue lesser charges to hold individuals accountable. 'They want to set an example,' said the person familiar with the plan. The 2021 withdrawal has been widely criticized, with both the Trump and Biden administrations sharing the blame. The White House released a classified review of the withdrawal in April last year, acknowledging intelligence failures but blaming Trump for creating the conditions leading to the rout. In a declassified summary, the administration said the February 2020 deal between Trump and the Taliban had placed the incoming Biden government in an impossible position by agreeing a date for withdrawal, but providing no plan for executing it. Trump's 2020 agreement with the Taliban committed the U.S. to withdraw all 13,000 American troops and release 5,000 Taliban fighters from prison. The Biden administration followed through, underestimating the Afghan government's ability to resist the Taliban. Trump's choice for secretary of defense, Fox News personality Pete Hegseth, has also been a harsh critic of the withdrawal. In his book The War on Warriors, Hegseth described it as a 'humiliating retreat' and slammed Pentagon leaders for their failures Foreign nationals and Afghans had to navigate Taliban checkpoints around the city, like this one (previously manned by American troops) close to the abandoned U.S. embassy (file photo) Taliban gunmen swept into Kabul. The speed of their advance, as Afghan National Security Forces collapsed, took U.S. officials by surprise (file photo) Democrats have insisted that some blame for the messy end of the war - less than seven months into Biden's presidency - should be laid at the feet of Trump, who began the withdrawal process by signing a deal with the Taliban in 2020. 'When former President Trump took office, there were approximately 14,000 American troops in Afghanistan. Days before leaving office, the former President ordered a further reduction to 2,500,' Representative Gregory Meeks, the top Democrat on the Foreign Affairs panel, said in a letter to committee Democrats in September Republican committee aides dismissed that contention as partisan politics, saying Biden could have ignored Trump's agreement or enforced it, accusing officials who served during Biden's presidency of allowing the Taliban to disregard its commitments. A 2022 independent review by the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction highlighted failures across both administrations, underscoring the lack of preparedness for the swift Taliban resurgence. Howard Lutnick, one of Trump's advisers, told NBC News that Trump regretted trusting 'Democratic generals' during his first term, vowing not to repeat the mistake. Former officials from Trump's administration have previously warned against decisions they believed could weaken national security. These included Trump's push to withdraw troops from Syria and his controversial suggestion to deploy active-duty troops during domestic protests following George Floyd's death in 2020. Afghan families are pictured boarding a military evacuation flight at Hamid Karzai Airport as the US prepared to withdraw from the country in August 2021 (file photo) Hundreds of people gather near a U.S. Air Force C-17 transport plane at the perimeter of the international airport in Kabul, Afghanistan, in August 2021 (file photo) As the Trump transition team continues its preparations, the proposed investigations into military leaders signal a dramatic shift in how Trump plans to address what he views as failures in U.S. military leadership. The move has already sparked significant debate over the limits of accountability and the potential implications for civil-military relations in the United States. Some 800,000 U.S. servicemembers served in Afghanistan following the U.S.-led invasion triggered by the September 11, 2001, attack on the U.S. by Afghanistan-based al Qaeda. During the war, 2,238 U.S. servicemembers died and nearly 21,000 were wounded. Independent estimates put the number of Afghan security forces and civilians killed at more than 100,000. Alec Baldwin has sparked outrage by appearing on Saturday Night Live as Robert F Kennedy Jr. The actor starred in a cold open alongside James Austin Johnson as Donald Trump, Dana Carvey as Joe Biden and Sarah Sherman as Matt Gaetz. The skit saw Baldwin crack jokes about Kennedy's recent nomination as the new Secretary of Health and Human Services. 'Americans need someone to teach them how to be healthy, someone like me, a 70-year-old man with movie star looks and a worm in his brain,' Baldwin said, ribbing Kennedy's previous claims doctors found a dead, parasitic worm in his head. However, many viewers were left unimpressed by the cameo, saying it was inappropriate given Baldwin has only just managed to shake a manslaughter charge over the shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the movie Rust. 'They actually brought that dead beat Alec Baldwin back?? SNL just needs to call it quits already,' one person wrote. 'I dont know who keeps wanting more Alec Baldwin on SNL but its not me.' Baldwin also mocked Kennedy's vaccine skepticism, altering his voice to mimic's Kennedy's distinctive tones which are the result of a condition called spasmodic dysphonia. Alec Baldwin (far right) has sparked outrage by appearing on SNL as Robert F Kennedy Jr. complete with a 'raspy' voice 'I care deeply about a woman's right to choose, to choose to give her child Polio,' Baldwin said. The decision to emulate Kennedy's condition also did not go over well with viewers. 'Alec Baldwins pathetic attempt at mocking RFK Jr. on SNL is the laziest, most unoriginal comedy ever. Its just a cheap shot at a real patriot. SNL is dead, and Baldwin is the reason why!' one viewer fumed on X. 'Lousiest and least funny damn thing you ever saw. Just lousy,' another added. The sketch went on to poke fun at Kennedy's admission he was involved in the discovery of a bear found in Central Park. An investigation by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) concluded that the six-month-old bear was run over and killed by a vehicle, but they could not figure out how it ended up in the park - until Kennedy admitted he was there when the bear died and claimed to be was responsible for it being located. 'I just wish people would take my appointment more seriously. Alright I gotta go, I got a dead dolphin in my car, I think I might saw it in half and dump it in Central Park,' Baldwin joked. Baldwin's appearance comes just months after a judge dismissed the manslaughter charge against him over Hutchins' death in 2021. The skit saw Baldwin joke about Kennedy's recent appointment as the new Secretary of Health and Human Services The actor starred in a cold open alongside James Austin Johnson as Donald Trump and Dana Carvey as Joe Biden The actor was holding a gun when it discharged killing Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza. But a judge ruled that crucial evidence which may have been beneficial to the defense was withheld. Kennedy's new role was announced by Trump earlier this week. His appointment has prompted consternation from some in the medical field due to his outlandish health claims over the years. They include that the parasitic worm worm 'ate' part of his brain, chemicals in water are making children question their gender identity and vaccines cause autism. Experts fear his appointment, and the potential polices that could be implemented, could have consequences far beyond American shores, for instance with regards to vaccination rates. The former presidential hopeful set up an influential anti-vaccination group, Children's Health Defense. He has previously stated that no jab is 'effective' and suggested childhood vaccines could be driving rising autism rates. President Biden and President-Elect Trump meet to discuss the transition of power pic.twitter.com/e2Q9p7icGZ Saturday Night Live - SNL (@nbcsnl) November 17, 2024 He also wrongly claimed Covid vaccines have killed more people than all jabs 'over the past 30 years' in what experts called an 'inaccurate representation of data'. Kennedy has also previously floated the idea that schools with vaccine requirements for attendance in the US should be defunded. One of the most eye-catching and recent health claims spread by Kennedy is that a parasitic worm 'ate' part of his brain. The wild declaration was uncovered in his divorce proceeding documents, following his split with Mary Richardson in 2012. The documents noted that, in 2010, Kennedy's medics were worried about a dark spot that showed up on a brain scan suspecting it may be a tumor. Kennedy complained of suffering brain fog and memory loss at the time. But further scans found the spot was the result of a parasitic infection. The New York Times, which uncovered the documents, said Kennedy wrote his mental issues 'were caused by a worm that got into my brain and ate a portion of it and then died'. It is unclear how Kennedy was infected with the worm in the first place, though he suspects he contracted it while travelling in South Asia. Donald Trump's defense secretary pick paid off a woman who accused him of raping her seven years ago. Pete Hegseth, a Fox News pundit and former National Guard officer, was investigated for an alleged sexual assault in 2017 but no charges were filed. The alleged rape took place in the early morning hours of October 8, 2017, at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa in Monterey, California. Local police investigated 'an alleged sexual assault' involving Hegseth, that was reported four days later, the city said. No weapons were involved, according to the statement, but there were injuries 'contusions to right thigh.' No further details were released and the city said it would not release the full police report, noting it was exempt from public disclosure. The statement did not say what happened to the investigation. Hegseth, who was divorced from his second wife at the time of the alleged rape, has not been charged in any criminal case or named as a defendant in any civil lawsuit. Timothy Parlatore, a lawyer representing Hegseth, admitted to the Washington Post that his client paid the woman for her silence. Pete Hegseth, a Fox News pundit and former National Guard officer was investigated for an alleged sexual assault in 2017 but no charges were filed Pete Hegseth and his wife Jennifer Hegseth He said Hegseth paid her an undisclosed amount because he feared the allegation getting out 'would result in his immediate termination from Fox'. Parlatore said Hegseth was drunk and claimed the woman was 'the aggressor in the encounter', which police did not agree with. A complaint from an unnamed woman with extensive knowledge of the alleged rape sent to Trump's staff explained the story police were told at the time. Hegseth was a speaker at the California Federation of Republican Women conference at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa the day of the alleged rape. He joined other guests at the hotel bar afterwards along with the woman, who was staying at the hotel with her husband and young children. Part of her job for the conference was to make sure Hegseth got out of bed the next morning in time to catch his flight home. At some point that night, she got texts from two women at the bar saying Hegseth 'was getting pushy about his interest in taking them upstairs to his room,' it was claimed. She allegedly came over and talked to them, and when they left she 'remembered sensing that Hegseth was irritated'. Hegseth was a speaker (pictured) at the California Federation of Republican Women conference at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa the day of the alleged rape. President-elect Donald Trump said Tuesday that he is nominating Fox News host and Army veteran Pete Hegseth to serve as his defense secretary The memo sent by the other woman claimed she 'didn't remember anything until she was in Hegseth's hotel room and then stumbling to find her hotel room'. The six to nine hours after intervening in Hegseth flirting with the other women were 'very hazy', the memo claimed. When she returned home, she 'had a moment of hazy memory of being raped the night before, and had a panic attack', the memo alleged. That was when she went to the ER and had a rape kit taken that was positive for semen. The woman who wrote the memo explained they had been friends for 15 years and she had 'never known her to be irresponsible, drunk, or ever of questionable character'. Parlatore argued a very different series of events where the sex was consensual and the woman took advantage of Hegseth. 'Witnesses stated that Mr Hegseth was visibly intoxicated but the complainant was not, as she led him by the arm to his hotel room,' he said. He claimed they walked out of the bar arm-in-arm and she was smiling, and when they got to his room, she was 'the aggressor in initiating sexual activity'. Pete Hegseth with Donald Trump in the Oval Office from when Trump was president The woman planned to tell her husband she fell asleep on a couch in a friend's room, Parlatore claimed Hegseth told police. He said the ER examination 'produced no evidence that the sexual contact was nonconsensual'. The memo written by the friend said some time after the police opted not to pursue the case, she and her husband hired a lawyer 'to ensure Hegseth didn't get off without punishment'. Parlatore said he responded with a cease and desist order on February 2, 2020, which was provided to the Post. 'Should you choose to proceed with the filing of a frivolous lawsuit against my client, my client has directed our firm to pursue all available remedies against you,' the letter read. 'Both you and Mr Hegseth have spouses, families and children that you undoubtedly both love very much and a public fight is not in anyone's best interest - especially in a case like this where both the law and the facts are against.' Hegseth's then-wife was in the process of divorcing him at the time of the alleged rape. Pete Hegseth (left) is a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan; he's a co-host of 'Fox & Friends Weekends' with Ainsely Earnhardt and Brian Kilmeade The woman Hegseth eventually began negotiating a non-disclosure agreement, which was signed about two-and-a-half years after the alleged rape. 'Hegseth strongly felt that he was the victim of blackmail and innocent collateral damage in a lie that the complainant was holding onto to keep her marriage intact,' Parlatore said. The lawyer claimed Hegseth felt it was in his best interest to settle as it was the height of the MeToo movement at the time. Incoming chief of staff Susie Wiles was briefed Wednesday night about the allegation, Vanity Fair reported. Wiles and Trump's lawyers spoke to Hegseth about it on Thursday. Hegseth told them the allegation stemmed from a consensual encounter and called it a 'he-said, she-said' situation, a source told Vanity Fair. Trump is standing by his nominee, his staff said. 'Mr Hegseth has vigorously denied any and all accusations, and no charges were filed,' Trump communications director Steven Cheung said. 'We look forward to his confirmation as United States Secretary of Defense so he can get started on Day One to Make America Safe and Great Again.' Hegseth's nomination to lead the Pentagon is controversial. He is a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan with a handful of military medals, including two Bronze Stars. But many have questioned whether the 44-year-old co-host of 'Fox & Friends Weekends' can handle managing the Defense Department, which has a budget of $842 billion, almost three million employees and 750 military installations around the world. He also has a history of controversial statements and once called liberals 'domestic enemies.' And he has said women should not be in combat for the US military, a point he has made repeatedly including last week in an interview with 'The Shawn Ryan Show' podcast. 'I'm straight up just saying, we should not have women in combat roles,' Hegseth said on that podcast. 'It hasn't made us more effective, hasn't made us more lethal, has made fighting more complicated.' His support for combat veterans accused of war crimes also has drawn criticism. Many have questioned whether he can win Senate confirmation because of his lack of experience. Since 2019, Hegseth has been married to his third wife, Fox News producer Jennifer Rauchet. The two were married at Trump's National Gold Club in Colts Neck, New Jersey. 'They will have a fantastic life together,' Trump wrote on Twitter of the marriage. Hegseth and his first wife, Meredith Schwarz, divorced in 2009 amid allegations he cheated. Pete Herseth and Jennifer Rauchet's wedding at Trump's National Gold Club in New Jersey A year later, Hegseth married Samantha Deering. In 2014, four years into their marriage, Hegseth started working at Fox News. There he got involved with Jennifer Rauchet, a producer at the network. Rauchet was also married at the beginning of her relationship with Hegseth. In 2017 the situation became public knowledge. Hegseth was already a father of three kids with Deering, and, in August 2017, he and Rauchet had a daughter together. Hegseth and Deering divorced in August 2017, the same month his child was born with Rauchet. The alleged assault in California took place in October of that year. One Hegseth ally blamed the surfacing of the allegation on GOP establishment members who are trying to thwart Hegseth's nomination. 'They'll try to kill all these nominations before the confirmation vote,' the ally said told Vanity Fair. A Melbourne mother-of-two who was allegedly murdered by her tradie neighbour as three teenagers watched on has been identified as Vicky Van Aken. Her neighbour Milorad Zaric, 47, has been charged with her murder outside her home in Bayswater in the city's east on Saturday morning. Dressed in a white forensic suit, Zaric remained silent when he appeared in Melbourne Magistrates Court on Sunday The court heard that the carpenter was withdrawing from drugs and alcohol. Magistrate Ross Betts rejected a request to extend the time for the delivery of a brief after Victoria Police said they needed extra weeks to go through the large amounts of evidence including forensic material, CCTV and drug analysis. Zaric was remanded in custody to appear at a committal on February 14, 2025. Emergency services were called to a property in Bayswater on Saturday after receiving reports at 11.15am that a woman had been stabbed. They arrived to find Ms Van Aken, 51, dead outside the home. Police allege three teens witnessed the horrifying attack, with one sustaining a minor injury. A Melbourne mother-of-two who was allegedly murdered by her tradie neighbour while three teenagers watched on has been identified as Vicky Van Aken (pictured) Milorad Zaric, 47, has been charged with murdering his neighbour on Saturday morning in Bayswater, 45km east of Melbourne's CBD. Pictured are police at the scene 'It's not a family violence incident,' Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Ellway said on Saturday. 'It is a tragic set of circumstances. Another woman lost at the hands of a man is just horrible.' Shocked neighbours said Ms Van Aken and her family were new to the area, but they had been seen trick or treating for Halloween. Ms Van Aken, who worked at Australia Post according to her LinkedIn profile, often posted about her children on social media. The alleged murder unfolded in front of three teens, including Zaric's 17-year-old son, the Herald Sun reported. Ms Van Aken (pictured) worked at Australia Post according to her LinkedIn profile The teenager was taken to hospital with lacerations to his hand. It's not known if he was trying to stop his father from his alleged stabbing Ms Van Aken. It's not thought that she and Zaric had any issues between them, nor were they thought to have been in a relationship. Detective Ellway said there was little to no confrontation before Ms Van Aken was allegedly killed. 'It appears as though the (alleged) offender has gone to the victim's house and she's opened the door and then she's been assaulted and subsequently died from her injuries,' he said. Zaric was initially taken to hospital with a 'medical complaint'. 'We're not looking for anyone else. It is an isolated incident,' Detective Ellway said. Neighbour Glenn Rowe said he was 'a bit shaken up' by the incident. 'I've been here for 25 years and I've never seen anything like this,' he said. 'It's a bit surreal. It's terrible, I feel sorry for the kids and the mother.' A two-year-old boy has been rushed to hospital in a critical condition after he was found floating face-down at a public pool. Emergency services were called to Whitlam Leisure Centre in Liverpool in Sydney's south-west on Sunday afternoon following reports a boy had been dragged unresponsive from the children's pool. Quick-thinking swimmers Ali Ahmadi and Abbas Amiri leapt into action to save the boy after spotting him lifeless in the water. 'As soon as we walked out, I saw a baby on the water floating and I [asked my friend] 'Is it a toy or a baby?' Mr Ahmadi said. 'He said 'a baby' and [my friend] ran outside to ask the lifeguard for help and I got him out of the water and everyone came around me. 'I ran outside to ask the lifeguards for help, we took him out and everyone came around us.' His friend Mr Amiri, a nurse visiting Australia from Sweden, performed first aid on the boy after he was pulled from the water. A two-year-old has been rushed to hospital after a near drowning at a public pool in Liverpool The little boy was found floating face down in the children's pool at Whitlam Leisure Centre 'He was face down and I brought him up, something yellow come from his mouth and I tried to help him as soon I came out from the water,' Mr Amiri said. 'There was nothing - around his face was black at the time... as soon as I came out of the water (with the boy) too many persons rushed forward to help the kid, they pushed me back so they could help him, but I was happy to help him.' Four NSW Ambulance units attended the scene. The boy's distraught mother was seen being comforted by relatives and emergency responders as paramedics stablised the boy's condition. Distraught relatives consoled each other as paramedics stabalised the little boy Evacuation warnings ordering patrons to leave the venue could be heard blaring in the background of footage of the incident. 'They told everyone to hop out, we all went inside and (staff) told everyone to leave,' one attendee said. The toddler was rushed to Westmead Children's Hospital in a critical condition. The boy's Good Samaritan rescuers said they were just relieved that they had been able to help the child. 'I'm just happy he's safe and he's alive,' Mr Ahmadi said. Whitlam Leisure Centre was packed with visitors at the time of the near-drowning as temperatures soared to 33C. The venue was closed shortly afterwards as NSW Police established a crime scene. Less than three weeks ago, Whitlam Leisure Centre posted a message on its website reminding parents of young children to maintain constant adult supervision at all times in the lead up to summer. 'Most fatal drownings in young children aged 0-4 years occurred in swimming pools and bathtubs,' the message read. The toddler was rushed to The Children's Hospital at Westmead in a critical condition 'All children and weak or non-swimmers should have constant adult supervision from parents or carers when in and around water. 'While we do have lifeguards prepared for extreme circumstances, it is important that parents and guardians are fully aware of what their children are doing at all times. 'Parents and guardians should also be on the lookout for areas of water that cannot be properly supervised, such as water with a glared surface, too much shade, or areas that are out of sight. 'These factors can prevent you from seeing what is going on in and underneath the water, therefore leading to an increased risk of accidents.' A man jailed for trying to claim almost $400,000 of his late girlfriend's super just days after she died in surgery is still trying to get his hands on her money. Travis Paul Barnard, 32, was sentenced in the Perth District Court in June after being found guilty of logging into Kim Heptinstall's super account on her mobile phone and changing the beneficiary nomination to his details. In a shocking new alleged betrayal, Ms Heptinstall's family suspect Barnard 'faked' a social media account to try to stake a claim on her estate and that he is 'motivated by greed'. The Australian Federal Police charged Barnard in July 2020 after investigating claims Ms Heptinstall's superannuation account had been accessed in the hours after she died from a cardiac arrest, aged 32, following gastric sleeve surgery in 2019. Barnard was sentenced to three years and 10 months behind bars, which was backdated to March 25 this year with a non-parole period of one year and 11 months. Ms Heptinstall's family's allegation that Barnard may have faked a Facebook page in an attempt to get some of his former girlfriend's money was raised during the latest legal hearings regarding the case. While her distraught mother Linda and brothers Ben and Neil have been grieving her death, they have also had to deal with legal claims around Ms Heptinstall's estate. In the WA Supreme Court this week, Barnard tried to prove he was Ms Heptinstall's de facto partner and entitled to a portion of her estate, The West Australian reported. Travis Barnard (pictured), who was jailed for trying to claim almost $400,000 of his late girlfriend's super just days after she died in surgery is still trying to get his hands on her money Barnard appeared in court, where he was grilled about his relationship with Ms Heptinstall. In order for Barnard to get any part of her estate, the court must find that the pair were in a de facto relationship for two years. As part of his case, Barnard showed printouts from a Facebook page he alleged belonged to Ms Heptinstall, which he claimed showed them in a close relationship. But Guy Douglas, a lawyer representing the Heptinstall family, said the photos appeared to have been taken from other accounts. 'Kimberley was, perhaps, naive and vulnerable. And we say she was preyed on by a deeply troubled man with mental health problems, who is motivated by greed, self-interest and a desire for self-gratification,' Mr Douglas told the court. He said the case requires Barnard to prove he was Ms Heptinstall's de facto partner. 'This evidence, in some cases, is of dubious origin, it's uncorroborated, it's selective and, in the defendant's submission, some of it's faked,' Mr Douglas added. Speaking from the witness box, Barnard denied faking a Facebook account of his dead partner to get a payout from her estate. 'Did I go and make random posts, a random account and just make all these up. Is that what you're trying to say? No, it's impossible,' he told the court. Kim Heptinstall (pictured) died suddenly from complications during surgery in 2019 The AFP charged Barnard in July 2020 after investigating claims the superannuation account had been accessed in the hours after Ms Heptinstall, 32, died (his arrest is pictured) Barnard was asked about a claim made after his criminal trial that 'bad Travis' had changed Ms Heptinstall's super details, which he couldn't recall doing. 'Do you know which Travis I'm speaking to now? Is it the one that tells lies or is it the one that tells the truth?' Mr Douglas asked. 'Well, which one would you like to meet?' Barnard replied. Mr Douglas told the court that Barnard couldn't be trusted. 'He has admitted to manipulating and deleting evidence (that was) relevant. After Kimberley passed away, he deleted her emails and logged her out of her email address,' he said. 'He was cross-examined about what appeared to be an advertisement (of) an escort and a sex worker. 'It had his telephone and photograph on it. He denied that was the case.' Barnard's lawyer Mario Strbac said the evidence produced by his client showed him in a committed relationship with Ms Heptinstall from 2017 to 2019. He said that a period they had lived apart in late 2018 was just a 'bump in the road'. Justice Matthew Howard reserved his decision. NATO has scrambled all its warplanes from Poland and Romania to Ukraine's fraught borders, after Russia targeted the country's critical infrastructure with a new onslaught of missile attacks that aim to wipe out its energy grid. The country's energy operator DTEK announced emergency power cuts at around 7am UK time on Sunday morning affecting the Kyiv, Donetsk and Dnipropetrovsk regions following overnight drone strikes. It said shortly thereafter thermal power plants had been struck by Putin's latest fusillade. The level of damage was not immediately clear. Air defences were deployed overnight to intercept drones in Kyiv as residents were urged to take cover, while missiles bound for the west of the stricken country prompted NATO to send out its warplanes to assist. 'Due to the massive attack by the Russian Federation using cruise missiles, ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles on objects located, among others, in western Ukraine, Polish and allied [NATO] aircraft have begun operating in our airspace,' said a statement from the Polish operational command. 'On-duty fighter pairs were scrambled, and the ground-based air defence and radar reconnaissance systems reached the highest state of readiness. 'The steps taken are aimed at ensuring safety in areas bordering the threatened areas.' Ukrainians have been bracing for a major attack on the hobbled power system for weeks. A firefighter tackles a blaze in Mykolaiv following the drone strike, which killed two people overnight Missile traces and smoke after explosions of missiles are seen in the sky over the city during a Russian missile strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine November 17, 2024 File image of an F-16 fighter jet Firefighters work at the site of residential area hit by a Russian missile strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Lviv region, Ukraine November 17, 2024 Officials have feared crippling damage to the grid that could cause long blackouts and build psychological pressure at a critical moment in the invasion launched in February 2022, 1000 days ago yesterday Russia's relentless aerial bombardment with missiles and drones has destroyed half of Ukraine's energy production capacity, President Volodymyr Zelensky has said. Kyiv has implored its Western allies for help in rebuilding its energy grid - a hugely expensive undertaking - and to supply its forces with more aerial defence weapons. With the harsh Ukrainian winter fast approaching, the country is already suffering from major energy shortfalls. 'Another massive attack on the power system is under way. The enemy is attacking electricity generation and transmission facilities throughout Ukraine,' Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko wrote on Facebook. Paramedics provide first aid to a man injured following a Russian drone strike in Mykolaiv this morning Ukrainians take shelter in an underground metro station in Kyiv as Russia carried out a missile attack earlier today A firefighter stands next to part of a missile that landed inside an apartment block in Kyiv The scale of the damage from the attacks was not immediately clear. Officials cut power supply to numerous city districts in what they said was a precaution to prevent a surge in case of damage. Authorities in the Volyn region in northwestern Ukraine said energy infrastructure had sustained damage but did not elaborate. Officials often withhold information on the state of the power system because of the war to prevent giving Russia the upper hand. In Mykolaiv in the south, two people were killed in an overnight drone attack, the regional governor said. Blasts shook the southeastern city of Zaporizhzhia and the Black Sea port of Odesa, witnesses told the Reuters news agency, while more blasts were reported in the regions of Kryvyi Rih in the south and Rivne in the west. 'Russia launched one of the largest air attacks: drones and missiles against peaceful cities, sleeping civilians, critical infrastructure,' said Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha. He described the strike as Moscow's 'true response' to leaders who had interacted with President Vladimir Putin, an apparent swipe at German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Poland scrambled fighter jets in response to Russian attacks in western Ukraine (file picture of a Polish Air Force F-16 fighter jet) Groups of people take cover with their children and pets in a Kyiv underground station early on Sunday during Russia's latest onslaught Ukrainian law enforcement officers and residents stand among debris in Mykolaiv on Sunday morning after the attacks Scholz had placed a phone call to the Russian leader on Friday for the first time since late 2022. NATO member Poland, which borders Ukraine to the west, said it had scrambled its air force within its airspace as a security precaution due to the Russian attack, which it said used cruise missiles, ballistic missiles and drones. Poland 'activated all available forces and resources at his disposal, the on-duty fighter pairs were scrambled, and the ground-based air defence and radar reconnaissance systems reached the highest state of readiness,' the operational command of its armed forces posted on X. In Kyiv, the roof of a residential building caught fire due to falling debris and at least two people were hurt, city officials said on the Telegram messaging app. 'Emergency services were dispatched to the scene,' Kyiv's Mayor Vitali Klitschko said. Russia last conducted a major missile strike on Kyiv on Aug. 26, when officials said it fired a salvo of more than 200 drones and missiles across the country in an attack that attack killed seven people. Do you know more? Email aidan.radnedge.mol@mailonline.co.uk Car boot murder victim Harshita Brella was made the subject of a court order designed to protect people against domestic violence just two months before she was found dead, it has been revealed. Police are stepping up the hunt for a prime suspect in the murder of the 24-year-old after she was discovered in the back of a vehicle in Brisbane Road in Ilford, east London - almost 100 miles from her home in Corby, Northamptonshire. Police believe she was killed by someone who was 'known to her' and news of the court order emerged this morning. Ms Brella was made subject of a Domestic Violence Protection Order at Northampton Magistrates Court in early September, according to the Northants Telegraph. This order, served by Northamptonshire Police and lasting 28 days, barred an alleged attacker from visiting her workplace, as well as banning him from molesting her, threatening violence, intimidating, harassing or pestering Ms Brella. No formal charges are thought to have been recorded against the man, who was reportedly released after a court hearing but ordered to pay its full costs. The new probe follows alarms being raised last Wednesday when Northamptonshire Police received a call regarding concerns over Harshita's welfare. Officers were sent round to her home address in Skegness Walk in Corby, Northamptonshire, but received no answer at the door. Harshita Brella was reported missing on November 13 by the authorities after Northamptonshire Police conducted a welfare check at her home in Skegness Walk, Corby and got no answer Officers are seen on Sunday morning at murder victim Harshita Brella's Corby home Harshita's body was discovered almost 100 miles from her home in Northamptonshire A missing person investigation was launched and after enquiries were fast-tracked she was found in Ilford on Thursday - some 95.7 miles away from the shared house she lived in. Officers are today continuing to search for whoever was responsible, as they appealed for anyone with information to get in touch as soon as possible - while the force is also putting in place extra patrols around Corby. Forensic officers in protective wear were this morning seen visiting her home in Corby while uniformed police guarded the property. Meanwhile, one local in Ilford told MailOnline: 'They seemed to be focusing on a car. It's horrific. It's quite an unsafe area. That poor woman must have gone through hell. It's deeply shocking. I've felt sick. She must have gone through so much pain.' They continued: 'Officers swarmed all over the street and were here for hours. It looked incredibly serious. 'There was screaming on the street earlier in the week. It's rough around here so I didn't bat an eyelid. There's always drug dealing and attacks and all sorts.' A forensic postmortem examination, which took place at Leicester Royal Infirmary on Friday, confirmed that Harshita had been murdered, but no arrests have yet been made, according to the police force. Aneighbour at Harshita's home in Corby told the Northampton Chronicle that the house the young woman lived in had been used as an HMO (house in multiple occupation), and at one point last year had 12 people living in it. The number of occupants has since reduced and the neighbour said she believed that the house had Bulgarian, Moldovan and Portuguese residents. Police were seen at her home in Corby, Northamptonshire, on Sunday morning as the murder probe continues Police were today pictured guarding Harshita Brella's home in Corby, as Northamptonshire Police said extra patrols would be put on in the area to help reassure residents Forensic officers were seen visiting Harshita Brella's Corby home on Sunday morning Brisbane Road in Ilford, east London. A forensic postmortem examination, which took place at Leicester Royal Infirmary on Friday, confirmed that Harshita had been murdered Police cordoned off the scene where Harshita Brella's body was then found in the back of a vehicle in Ilford, east London - almost 100 miles away from her Northamptonshire home A murder investigation is ongoing after the 24-year-old's body was found in a car boot near the entrance of Valentines Park in Ilford, East London A general view of Skegness Walk in Corby where Harshita Brella lived in a house share The property had been largely peaceful since some noise complaints were resolved last year, the neighbour added. But she said that earlier this week she heard a commotion, adding: 'The way that gate slammed I knew something had happened. Someone took off quickly. 'I had heard banging coming from the house and then they obviously just legged it. The police have been here about four days.' Forensic officers spent hours at the scene of the car, only removing a tent there on Friday. And police have been asking locals whether they had seen any suspicious activity in the area - especially relating to men. One person, who asked not to be named, said: 'It's a mystery how she ended up here - the poor woman. 'Officers asked me if I'd seen anything suspicious - they basically asked if any dodgy men had been in the area. 'They seem to suggest they know who did it. From what they said to me, I bet it sounds like a man who knew her. They seemed to want to know about men in particular.' A missing person investigation was launched and after enquiries were fast-tracked she was found on Brisbane Road (pictured), Ilford, on Thursday - some 95.7 miles away from her home Map showing the location that Harshita's body was discovered on Brisbane Road The body of the woman was found in the boot of a car on Brisbane Road, pictured, in Ilford Shop worker Paul Sidebottom, 54, said police had spent hours in the street and had asked locals for CCTV. He said: 'Our shop CCTV hasn't shown anything. They asked if I'd seen or heard anything. They seemed very concerned.' Northamptonshire Police has also referred themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) due to previous contact they had with the victim. Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Johnny Campbell from the East Midlands Special Operations Major Crime Unit (EMSOU), said: 'First of all, I want to express my heartfelt condolences to everyone who loved Harshita Brella. 'She was a young woman in her early 20s with her whole life ahead of her and it is absolutely tragic that her life has been cut short in this way. 'Detectives from EMSOU and Northamptonshire Police are working around the clock to establish the circumstances behind her death, including the exact location and timeframe in which it took place.' The force said officers were satisfied there was no wider risk to the public as a result of this incident, but said extra patrols will be taking place in Corby in the coming days 'for reassurance purposes'. Anyone with any concerns is welcome to approach one of these officers who will be happy to help, Northamptonshire Police added. Map showing the location of Harshita Brella's home on Skegness Walk in Corby Police are today continuing to search for whoever was responsible for Harshita Brella's death, as they appealed for anyone with information to get in touch as soon as possible And DCI Campbell is appealing to anyone who may have information about this incident to come forward. He added: 'Although we believe Harshita was attacked by someone known to her, we are keeping an open mind, and would appeal to anyone who knew her to contact us with any relevant information they may have. 'If you saw anything suspicious in the past week or have any information, no matter how small, please contact us. We would always rather receive well-meaning information that turns out to be nothing as opposed to not receiving it all.' Anyone who may have information that could assist police inquiries is asked to contact police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. The distraught parents of 12-year-old schoolgirl Charlotte O'Brien, who took her own life after suffering relentless bullying, have spoken about their final hours with her. Mat Howard and his wife Kelly are carrying out their daughter's final wishes, that her story be told and that Australians understand that social media can kill. Mr Howard broke down talking to 60 Minutes on Sunday night about September 9, the last night of Charlotte's life, when she seemed to be the happiest she had been in weeks. 'We know that she had ongoing struggles and the last two weeks was the best two weeks that I can remember with her,' he recalled. 'We thought we were really turning a corner. She'd come home from school that day and she'd had a great day. 'Kelly had made her favourite dinner that night. She ran in the house to have her dinner. That night she skipped off to bed, literally skipped.' The Howards, holding close a teddy bear that now contains their daughter's ashes, both broke down in tears. 'We never saw her again,' Mr Howard said. Mat and Kelly Howard, the distraught parents of 12-year-old schoolgirl Charlotte O'Brien, who took her own life just over two months ago, have spoken about her final hours On the last night of Charlotte's life, when she seemed to be the happiest she had been in weeks. Charlotte is pictured Charlotte's final act before taking her life that night was to leave handwritten notes for her parents. One asked her mum to keep living for Charlotte's 18-month-old brother, Will. Another pleaded with her mum and dad to tell her story to raise awareness of what can happen to children online. The bullying Charlotte, a Year 7 student at Santa Sabina College at Strathfield in Sydney's inner-west, was suffering at school continued in cruel messages sent to her on social media on the night she died. Her parents came across a friend of Charlotte's that she had met online. 'She had shared with us some of the things that Charlotte had spoken to her about that night, after she went up to bed,' Mr Howard said. '(Charlotte) had called her just completely distressed and shared the the messages that she had read.' Mr Howard said the parents can't reveal exactly what they have been told. 'But what I will tell you is what we've been told is some of the worst words that anybody should have to read, let alone a 12-year-old girl,' he said. The couple said it was messages sent to Charlotte on social media platform Snapchat in particular that tipped her over the edge. Charlotte had been banned from using Snapchat and had her phone taken from her after breaking two rules. 'She had her phone taken off her more than she had it on her,' Ms Howard said. Her husband added: 'Out understanding is that she only had the phone back on for just over a week, and that week was enough to have a significant impact on her to lead to where we are now.' Kelly found her daughter's body the next morning, and one of the first things she saw was Charlotte's phone on the bedroom floor. 'I just kept saying to the police that morning, 'Where did she get the knowledge and the means?',' Ms Howard said through tears. 'I couldn't wrap my head around it, and (the police officer) just said to me, 'This is the age of information, she just needed to Google it'.' She added: 'I'm so devastated by that as I gave her that phone. 'Giving our kids these phones, we're giving them weapons. We're giving them the world at their fingertips.' Ms Howard described Charlotte as 'the sweetest, funniest, most helpful, amazing girl in the world'. 'She was the best big sister, the best daughter,' she said. 'She just loved to love and to be loved.' The heartbroken parents recently travelled to Canberra to sit down with the Prime Minister to discuss what happened to their beloved daughter and press him to bring in legislation to limit access to social media to those aged 16 and over. Mat and Kelly say that their daughter Charlotte (pictured) 'just wanted to love and be loved' But before they met him, Anthony Albanese announced that the Australian Government would introduce 'world-leading' legislation to ban social media for all children under 16, with no exemptions even if they have parental permission. 'Social media is doing harm to our kids and I'm calling time on it,' Mr Albanese said, adding that he had spoken to 'thousands of parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles' on the issue. 'They, like me, are worried sick about the safety of our kids online. I want Australian families to know that the government has your back. I want parents to be able to say, 'Sorry, mate, that's against the law.'' There are many opponents, though, who say the legislation, if passed, won't work, that children will find ways around it that could lead them into more danger. One of those opponents is Western Sydney University Professor Amanda Third, who is among of 140 Australian and international academics with expertise in technology and child welfare who signed an open letter to the federal government on the issue. 'One thing that I need to make clear is that those of us who are opposing the ban are not opposing the ban because we think social media companies should be able to run riot,' Prof Third said. 'We're opposing the ban because we believe that this is a blunt instrument, and what we need are much more fine-grained regulatory instruments that actually will hold social media companies to account for their responsibilities to children and their parents.' Kelly described her daughter Charlotte (pictured) as 'the sweetest, funniest, most helpful, amazing girl in the world. 'She was the best big sister, the best daughter,' she said She believes the social media giants such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and X should be forced to better regulate their content. An age limit ban could make things worse, she fears. 'I don't think we've got effective ways of keeping children out of those spaces and children won't be able to ask for help when they do end up in those spaces.' But Mat and Kelly are fighting on in Charlotte's memory. 'It is the deepest of deep grief. It's the first thing you think of in the morning and all throughout the day it never leaves you,' Mat said. 'And then at night, that's when the nightmares kick in.' Kelly said: 'I don't want her to ever be forgotten. She didn't live long enough to make her own legacy. Maybe this could be it.' For the Howards, a social media ban on under-16s needs to only save one life for it to all be worth it. 'If we can just stop it from happening again to somebody else, then maybe this is Charlotte's wish,' Mat said. If you or someone you know needs support, help is available 24/7 on Lifeline on 13 11 14, or Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800. Labour is plotting a series of Italy-style migrant deals with governments in Kurdistan, Turkey and Vietnam in a bid to tackle the small boats crisis. The push comes weeks after Sir Keir Starmer met with Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome to discuss how to tackle illegal migration. Italy has been a key protaganist in EU deals struck with north African countries Tunisia and Libya to stop migrant boats arriving on European shores. The PM and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper want to copy the model of paying countries hundreds of millions of pounds for them to do more to stop crossings. As reported by the Sunday Times, Ms Cooper is in talks with governments in Kurdistan - a semi-autonomous region of Iraq, Turkey and Vietnam. The 'co-operation and security' agreements are expected to be finalised before the end of the year. Cabinet minister Louise Haigh this morning confirmed that Labour is seeking 'international solutions' to tackle the Channel migrant crisis 'upstream'. But she denied that Labour's proposals were similar to the Tories' Rwanda plan to stop small boat crossings. Although she refused to say how much Labour's deals would cost British taxpayers, Ms Haigh did not deny it would amount to hundreds of millions of pounds. The push comes weeks after Sir Keir Starmer met with Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome to discuss how to tackle illegal migration A group of people are pictured in a small boat off the beach of Gravelines, near Dunkirk, northern France, in April this year Transport Secretary Louise Haigh this morning confirmed that Labour is seeking 'international solutions' to tackle the Channel migrant crisis 'upstream' The Transport Secretary told Sky News: 'The PM and the Home Secretary have made no secret that this is an international problem that needs international solutions. 'That is why both of them have been working with our counterparts across Europe and across the world to make sure we have deals and agreements in place that can tackle this issue. 'We can't tackle it on our own at the border, that's why the PM was at Interpol recently talking about exactly this issue. We need to tackle the problem upstream.' Sir Keir scrapped the Tories' Rwanda plan - which would have seen asylum seekers sent to the African country to have their claims processed - as soon as he took office. But Ms Haigh denied Labour is seeking to revive those plans through partnerships with governments in Kurdistan, Turkey and Vietnam. 'Rwanda was a failed gimmick that managed to solve absolutely nothing,' she said. 'Rwanda wasn't working well before we scrapped it before coming into office, it was costing the taxpayer a fortune. 'It clearly wasn't working as a deterrent and it wasn't resolving the issue at source. What we're talking about is resolving the issue upstream.' Tory shadow home secretary Chris Philp said Labour's planned migration deals will not 'work as a deterrent' but are a 'constructive step'. He told Sky News: 'They are not proposing, as far as I can see, to have a returns agreement with those countries. 'They're proposing to work with those countries to prevent departures in the first place. 'Now that's all well and good. I'm perfectly happy to support that, but it's not going to work as a deterrent. 'To deter people, they need to know that if they illegally and dangerously cross the English Channel, they're going to be immediately removed somewhere else. 'And that's what Rwanda did. These deals don't do that.' He added: 'The Rwanda scheme never actually started. 'It was due to start on the 24 July and it would have saved us a lot of money had it been started, because the deterrent would have stopped people crossing the English Channel. 'We know that because it worked in Australia.' Ms Meloni has hailed the success of her hardline policies and Italy's interior ministry claimed a 62 per cent fall in irregular migrant arrivals in the first seven months of 2024. Ahead of his talks with the Italian PM in September, Sir Keir said he 'wanted to understand' how Ms Meloni had achieved 'dramatic reductions' of small boat arrivals. He said this was likely due to Italy's 'upstream' work to tackle illegal migration, adding: 'I've always made the argument that preventing people leaving their country in the first place is far better than trying to deal with those that have arrived in any of our countries.' So far this year more than 32,000 people have arrived in the UK having made the journey across the English Channel by boat, according to Home Office figures. Sir Keir recently hailed the arrest of a 44-year-old Turkish man suspected of being a supplier of small boats was a 'significant piece of the jigsaw' in tackling Channel crossings. The suspect was detained at Schipol Airport in Amsterdam on Wednesday after a joint investigation by Dutch and Belgian authorities and the UK's National Crime Agency (NCA). He is suspected of shipping dinghies and engines from Turkey and storing them in Germany, before they are moved to northern France for crossings. The PM said: 'Criminal gangs have been getting away with this for far too long. 'I want to thank the UK National Crime Agency, along with their Dutch and Belgian counterparts, for all their hard work and their crucial role in this investigation. 'It's exactly what we want to see and it shows that our approach of working with international partners to smash the people smuggling gangs is bearing fruit.' An illustration of the diverging diamond interchange being built on Fairgrounds Drive at Highway 37 in Vallejo. Caltrans An illustration of the "diverging diamond" interchange being built on Fairgrounds Drive at Highway 37 in Vallejo. Caltrans An illustration of the diverging diamond interchange being built on Fairgrounds Drive at Highway 37 in Vallejo. Caltrans Normally, the thrill of visiting the Bay Areas Six Flags Discovery Kingdom involves the twists and turns of roller coasters with alluring names like Medusa, Boomerang and Sidewinder Safari. But soon, getting to and from the Vallejo amusement park will include some thrills of its own, taking vehicles through a diverging diamond a new type of traffic interchange that will be the first of its kind in the Bay Area and only the second in California. The interchange, on Fairgrounds Drive at the intersection with Highway 37, will be a bit of a ride before the rides, said Hector Chinchilla, a Caltrans spokesperson, in a video recorded on the recent groundbreaking for the yearlong project. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Drivers will encounter a pair of signalized X-shaped intersections that direct traffic and briefly send drivers to the left of oncoming traffic, London-style. Heres how the new diverging diamond will work in various scenarios at the Fairgrounds Drive-Highway 37 interchange when they open about a year from now: Interstate 80 to Six Flags: Drivers will exit onto Highway 37 as they do now, and take the Fairgrounds Drive exit. Theyll head to the left, cross under the freeway and enter the X-shaped crossover intersection, which will put them on Fairgrounds headed to the park entrance. Highway 37 from Marin or Sonoma county to Six Flags: Drivers will take the Fairgrounds Drive exit, which will take them to the right, bypassing the X intersection. Six Flags to I-80: Drivers bound for Sacramento or the Carquinez Bridge via the interstate will take a ramp on Fairgrounds Drive to the right, avoiding the crossovers of the interchange and putting them on Highway 37, which connects with I-80. Six Flags to Sonoma or Marin on Highway 37: Drivers will take Fairgrounds Drive through the X-shaped intersection, cross under the freeway then take a curving ramp onto the freeway, without needing to take a left turn against traffic. Fairgrounds Drive: Drivers staying on Fairgrounds Drive in either direction go through both sets of Xs, traveling beneath Highway 37 to the left of oncoming traffic. Bicycles travel in green lanes to the right of traffic. Pedestrians walk through a barrier-protected center median and cross at traffic signals. Sound confusing? Videos and diagrams provided by Caltrans and the Solano County Transportation Authority help it make more sense, showing how traffic moves through the interchange in different directions. Advertisement Article continues below this ad And Bart Ney, a Caltrans spokesperson, said in the video that the ride through the diverging diamond Interchange is smoother than it might appear or sound. For motorists, you dont even have to figure out how it works, he said. Its so easy you just follow the signals. The reconstruction of the Highway 37-Fairgrounds Drive interchange will take about a year to complete, and it will make it more efficient and safer, said Ney. Diverging diamond interchanges require less space than a traditional diamond or cloverleaf interchange and can cost 75% less, according to the Federal Highway Administration. By improving traffic flow, the interchanges also reduce congestion and greenhouse gas emissions, officials say. Advertisement Article continues below this ad When completed, the Vallejo interchange will be just the second diverging diamond in California. The states first interchange with the new design opened in November 2020 in Manteca, where Highway 120 and Union Road meet. Loading... A reporters drive through that interchange a couple of years ago was far less perplexing or even eventful than anticipated. It seemed like a big intersection with overhead traffic signals and lane markings that were easy to follow. The California Highway Patrols Stockton office did not return calls asking about the safety of the Manteca interchange over the past four years. But the Federal Highway Administration says the interchanges sometimes called double diamonds are safer than traditional designs. Thats largely because they eliminate left turns across traffic, therefore reducing the number of places where vehicles, pedestrians and bicycles cross or turn across the path of another direction of traffic, according to officials. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The first diverging diamond interchange in the U.S., which opened in Springfield, Mo., in 2009, saw left-turn crashes eliminated, a 76% reduction in right-angle collisions, a 29% drop in rear-end crashes and a 46% decline in total collisions in its first five years, according to the highway administration. More than 150 of the newfangled intersections have since been built across the country. California has plans to build more, according to Caltrans, but its not yet clear whether any others are planned for the Bay Area. The Vallejo interchange is part of a $25 million project to modernize and widen a 1.5-mile stretch of Fairgrounds Drive from the Highway 37 interchange to the Redwood Parkway-Interstate 80 Interchange. Its also one of the first steps in a 15-20 year plan to improve Highway 37 from Vallejo to Highway 101 in Novato, reducing congestion and protecting it from flooding and sea-level rise. A young boy is fighting for his life in hospital after he was pulled from a Sydney public pool on Sunday. The two-year-old was rushed to The Children's Hospital at Westmead in a serious condition after he was located unconscious at the Whitlam Leisure Centre in Liverpool shortly after 1.30pm. Swimmers Ali Ahmadi and Abbas Amiri leapt into action to save the boy after spotting him lifeless in the water. 'As soon as we walked out, I saw a baby on the water floating, and I [asked my friend] "Is it a toy or a baby?",' Mr Ahmadi said. 'He said "a baby" and my friend ran outside to ask the lifeguard for help, and I got him out of the water, and everyone came around me. 'I ran outside to ask the lifeguards for help. We took him out, and everyone came around us.' Mr Amari, a nurse visiting Australia from Sweden, performed first aid on the boy after he was pulled from the water. 'He was face down, and I brought him up; something yellow came from his mouth, and I tried to help him as soon I came out from the water,' Mr Amiri said. A two-year-old has been rushed to hospital after a near drowning at a public pool in Liverpool Distraught relatives consoled each other as paramedics stabalised the little boy Whitlam Leisure Centre was packed with visitors at the time of the near-drowning as temperatures soared to 33C. Less than three weeks ago, Whitlam Leisure Centre posted a message on its website reminding parents of young children to maintain constant adult supervision at all times in the lead-up to summer. 'Most fatal drownings in young children aged 0-4 years occurred in swimming pools and bathtubs,' the message read. 'All children and weak or non-swimmers should have constant adult supervision from parents or carers when in and around water. 'While we do have lifeguards prepared for extreme circumstances, it is important that parents and guardians are fully aware of what their children are doing at all times. Relatives of the little boy were comforted by emergency services 'Parents and guardians should also be on the lookout for areas of water that cannot be properly supervised, such as water with a glared surface, too much shade, or areas that are out of sight. 'These factors can prevent you from seeing what is going on in and underneath the water, therefore leading to an increased risk of accidents.' Belgravia Leisure, which operates the centre, has been contacted for comment. Police in Manchester have launched a double murder investigation after two men were found stabbed to death in the street. Emergency services were called to Great Southern Street in Moss Side, less than two miles south of the city centre, after the men were discovered. Despite the best efforts of first responders both were pronounced dead at the scene. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has arrested one man in his 20s on suspicion of murder and established a cordon as it carries out an investigation. The force says there is no wider threat to the public - and has urged locals to stay away from the area as it carries out inquiries. The full length of Great Southern Street has been closed to traffic, according to traffic data platform Inrix. Two forensic tents have been established: one in the middle of the road at the junction of Great Southern Street and Kippax Street and a second close to the junction with Crofton Street around 100 metres east. Forensic scene of crime officers in white overalls and PPE could be seen outside both tents. Uniformed officers guarded each end of the cordon while one stood outside the nearby Alfurqan Islamic Centre. Do you live on the street? Email: jon.brady@mailonline.co.uk A forensics officer enters a tent on Great Southern Street in Manchester's Moss Side area after two people were stabbed to death Forensics officers speak to uniformed officers behind the cordon on Great Southern Street. A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder A forensic scene of crime officer in white overalls in Moss Side this morning. Locals said police arrived at around 5am earlier today Police have established a cordon at the junction of Great Southern Street and Kippax Street (pictured) A forensic tent set up at the junction early this morning by police. Another tent was set up 100 metres down Great Southern Road One of the street's residents claims he's not been allowed to leave his house this morning, due to the large police presence outside. He said: 'We can't go outside at the moment. I saw it this morning, about 4am - out of my window, there was a man laying on the floor and another laying further ahead. 'I woke up to blue lights and sirens - my neighbour has since told me they were the one who called the police. 'I can't leave the house at all at the moment, I'm completely blocked off. 'It's terrifying - the first time I've seen something like this in my entire life.' The Manchester Evening News reported that the individuals who died had suffered stab injuries. Officers were reported to have arrived on the scene some time around 5am. GMP said in a statement: 'There is an emergency service presence on Great Southern Street in Moss Side this morning (Sunday 17 November 2024). 'Officers were called at around 5am to reports that two people had been stabbed. 'Officers alongside colleagues in the emergency services attended and despite the best efforts of first responders two men were treated at the scene for their injuries. They have both sadly been pronounced dead. 'We have arrested one man in his 20s who has been arrested on suspicion of murder. He remains in custody for questioning and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident. 'We are treating this as an isolated incident with no threat to the wider public. 'We thank the public for their cooperation and patience as there is a cordon in place on Great Southern Street and into the surrounding area. 'We are asking the public to continue avoiding the area as there is a large emergency service presence while we establish the full circumstances of the incident this morning.' MailOnline has contacted GMP for further comment. This is a breaking story - more to follow. A 'culture of silence and fear' is stopping senior Church of England leaders being called out over the John Smyth abuse scandal, a bishop has alleged, which saw as many as 130 boys and young men assaulted. There are concerns that information in relation to victims of the CofE's worst ever child abuser may be being withheld by members of the clergy who stay silent for fear of the repercussions and their 'career prospects'. In an interview on Sky News' Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips, Bishop of Newcastle Dr Helen-Ann Hartley suggested her fellow bishops are perhaps remaining tight-lipped after witnessing the resignation of Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby and fearing a similar fate. Dr Welby announced his resignation this week after the independent Makin Review concluded that the most prolific abuser associated with the Church of England, John Smyth, might have been brought to justice had the archbishop formally alerted authorities in 2013. Ms Hartley had previously called for the archbishop to step down, saying his position had become 'untenable' after the publication of the review. She told the programme: 'I think it's a great disappointment to me that when I called for that publicly, I was indeed a lone voice. 'So I have no real explanation for that other than there is a culture, I think, of silence and fear amongst the bishops, which is really unhealthy.' Ms Hartley went so far as to suggest that other bishops may have stayed silent 'because they see themselves as succeeding to be the new archbishop of Canterbury' and are 'fearful of being reprimanded and rebuked'. The Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby has resigned but there are calls that 'this should not detract from the Church of England sorting out its unfathomable safeguarding issues' Pictured: March 2024 John Smyth (pictured) is believed to be the most prolific serial abuser to be associated with the Church of England Right Reverend Dr Helen-Ann Hartley bishop of Newcastle upon Tyne. She suggested her fellow bishops are perhaps remaining tight-lipped after witnessing the resignation of Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby She said she believed 'anybody' who holds public office or a role in the church, who was named in the damning review as having failed in their response to abuse and the report of abuse, should also resign. Over five decades, as many as 130 boys and young men were abused physically, sexually and psychologically in the UK and Africa by Smyth, a lay reader who ran Christian summer camps. The former barrister died aged 77 in Cape Town, South Africa, in August 2018, while under investigation by Hampshire Police. In a statement announcing his resignation, Dr Welby said the Makin Review had 'exposed the long-maintained conspiracy of silence' regarding Smyth's abuse. The archbishop added that he was informed of the abuse in 2013, but was told at the time that police had already been notified - which later proved not to be the case. Dr Welby quit after senior colleagues joined criticism and more than 12,000 people signed a petition calling for him to resign, and PM Keir Starmer pointedly refused to back him. The former archbishop knew Smyth because of his attendance at Iwerne Christian camps in the 1970s, but the review said there was no evidence that he had 'maintained any significant contact' with the barrister in later years. Dr Welby added he had 'no idea or suspicion of this abuse' before 2013. At the COP29 summit, Keir Starmer said that findings in the review by Keith Makin that Smyth abused more than 100 boys and young men are 'clearly horrific' and that his victims 'have obviously been failed very, very badly' Stephen Cottrell, the Archbishop of York, said Dr Welby's resignation was 'the right and honourable thing to do' In a statement, Dr Welby said: ' Having sought the gracious permission of His Majesty The King, I have decided to resign as Archbishop of Canterbury.' The report said Smyth 'could and should have been formally reported to the police in the UK, and to authorities in South Africa (church authorities and potentially the police) by church officers, including a diocesan bishop and Justin Welby in 2013'. The Archbishop of York said the resignation was the 'right and honourable thing to do', while MPs insisted there was a duty on leaders of institutions to 'report and rigorously follow up' safeguarding concerns. Alan Collins, a partner at law firm Hugh James, which represents a number of Smyth's victims, said following Dr Welby's resignation: 'It is unsurprising that Welby has resigned because of the immense pressure on him to do so given his involvement in the Smyth case. 'However, the real story is not about whether Welby has resigned this is a side matter. 'The spotlight must be on how the Church of England failed its victims so dreadfully for over 40 years, and the immediate priority is the CoE addressing the needs of its victims. 'All the attention is on Welby's resignation, but this should not detract from the Church of England sorting out its unfathomable safeguarding issues.' Nigel Farage has claimed the failure to bring charges against youths involved in a brawl at Manchester Airport after four months is an example of 'two tier policing'. The Reform UK leader compared the absence of charges following July's incident to the 'immediacy' of action against those who rioted after the Southport stabbings. Branding PM Sir Keir Starmer as 'two tier Kier', Mr Farage told a podcast: 'If that's not two tier policing and two tier justice under two tier Keir, I don't know what is.' The Clacton MP, as revealed by the Mail On Sunday, is set to mount a private prosecution against those involved in the Manchester Airport chaos, which led to protests about 'police brutality'. He is expected to announce the move tomorrow to highlight what he claims is Right-wing activists being singled out by the courts for harsher treatment. Footage of a fracas at Manchester Airport on 23 July, which went viral earlier this year, appeared to show a police officer stamping on the head of Fahir Amaaz, 19. It came as he and his brother Muhammed Ahmaad, 25, were restrained by fellow officers. But further footage emerged days later which showed the immediate build-up to the incident. This included two female police officers being hit to the ground - with one left with a broken nose - before Fahir was incapacitated with a Taser. Speaking on a podcast hosted by former Mumford & Sons guitarist Winston Marshall, Nigel Farage highlighted the lack of CPS action over the Manchester Airport incident Footage of a fracas at Manchester Airport on 23 July, which went viral earlier this year, appeared to show a police officer stamping on the head of Fahir Amaaz, 19 The incident prompted an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). Tensions were raised further when the brothers' lawyer Akhmed Yakoob claimed the fracas had been an 'attempted assassination', triggering anti-police protests in the their home town of Rochdale. Four months later, with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) apparently no closer to announcing charges against the brothers, Mr Farage has hired two solicitors to look into bringing a case against them. A source close to Mr Farage said: 'It is now November, and no charges have been laid yet those on the Right of the arguments who said unpleasant things on social media and took to the streets found themselves in jail almost instantly. 'We have a two tier justice system in this country'. Speaking on a podcast hosted by former Mumford & Sons guitarist Winston Marshall, Mr Farage contrasted the lack of CPS action over the Manchester Airport incident to the swift crackdown on those involved in widespread street disorder this summer. Quizzed about his frequent claims of 'two tier policing' in Britain, he told the Winston Marshall Show: 'What has happened to the Manchester attackers back in July, before Southport? 'We get violent yobbery in Manchester Airport, police are violently attacked, a police woman has her nose broken. Police then regain control of the situation. 'All you see is a video of a police officer stamping on somebody. Well, of course he was stamping on him, he had a gun in his hand. 'If you have a gun in your hand you do not engage an assailant with your other arm in case you lose the gun. 'It looked awful because Manchester Police didn't release the rest of it.' He added: 'We are now in the middle of November and the CPS have laid no charges. Compare that to the immediacy of the arrests and sentencing after Southport. 'If that's not two tier policing and two tier justice under two tier Keir, I don't know what is.' Mr Farage compared the absence of charges following July's incident at Manchester Airport to the 'immediacy' of action against those who rioted after the Southport stabbings Three young girls were stabbed to death in Southporton 29 July, which sparked violent disorder across the UK. Sir Keir vowed swift justice for those involved in rioting in a bid to prevent further disorder. Hundreds of people were subsequently arrested, charged and prosecuted over the disorder, with many sent to jail. A Crown Prosecution Service spokesperson told MailOnline today: 'We are considering material and are providing advice in relation to a series of alleged criminal offences at Manchester Airport in July this year. 'We are working with Greater Manchester Police and the Independent Office for Police Conduct while their enquiries continue.' Stephen Parkinson, the director of public prosecutions and head of the CPS, previously said a 'swift and unambigious response' to the summer riots was 'the only way to bring widespread disorder under control'. In a newspaper article in August, he also dismissed claims of 'two tier policing', adding: 'Talk of a one-sided approach is unfounded. 'Those needing proof need only look at the violent and disorderly so-called 'counter-protestors' who we charged and prosecuted with the same even-handed professionalism as the mob they claimed to oppose. 'The CPS prosecutes people who break the law irrespective of background or political affiliation. 'This is why we are independent from government. It is central to who we are. Some may ask why all crime isn't punished so briskly. Some cases take longer because they are complex.' The storm over the Manchester Airport incident led to fears the officers involved could have to go into hiding as the protests grew two were suspended over the outcry and it is understood they still are. The CCTV footage shows Fahir punching a female police officer in the face, breaking her nose, before knocking down a second woman officer while his brother throws a barrage of 'full-blooded' punches at an armed male officer, leaving him stunned and slumped on the floor. Fahir also punched the male officer and grabbed him by the neck in a 'chokehold', which he released only when a female officer Tasered him. A well-informed source told The Mail on Sunday that after a 'violent altercation' at a Starbucks coffee shop within the airport, three officers tried to arrest Fahir as he used a car park ticket machine; he was shown resisting before Amaad throws a barrage of punches at the male police officer, who crumpled on to a row of metal seats. Fahir was then shown lashing out, first punching one female officer in the side of the head and then smashing the second woman officer in the face, knocking her off her feet and leaving her sprawled on the floor. The furore erupted in July after partial videos of the incident shared online showed an officer kicking 19-year-old Fahir Amaaz The second female officer suffered a broken nose. Footage also showed Fahir throwing at least another four punches at the first female officer, who was knocked to her knees. By this point the male officer had got back to his feet and was aiming his Taser at Amaad. Fahir, however, is shown charging into the back of the male officer, punching him in the head then grabbing him around the neck. It is claimed the male officer suffered a suspected broken jaw and may have been temporarily knocked out. The fight ended only when the first female officer staggered back to her feet and fired her Taser at Fahir, which knocked him over. It was at this point as seen by millions in the mobile phone footage that the male police officer kicks Fahir in the head and apparently stamps on him as he lies on the floor. The CPS has the power to prevent a private prosecution by taking it over and discontinuing it but such a move would be highly controversial in this case. Just Stop Oil is flogging a range of items poking fun at its numerous protesting escapades - which have been released just in time for Christmas. The environmental group is selling three new products on its online store in a bid to raise more cash to support its relentless campaign against the use of fossil fuels. This includes a bag for eco-zealots to stash their superglue before sticking themselves to roads. The satirical tote bag, named the 'This Tote Bag Is Full Of Glue' bag, is described as being perfect for all 'your glue transportation needs'. It is an apparent nod to how members of the group regularly stick themselves to roads and paintings to stop cops removing them. The group is also selling a beanie which is perfect to keep warm while having a 'picnic on the M25', where is carried out numerous protests blocking the motorway. Finally, the group is also selling a mug that reveals a 'hidden message' when it has a hot cup of coffee or tea in it. All three products are on sale for 15 each and have been released on its website ahead of the festive season. Just Stop Oil is flogging a range of items poking fun at its numerous protesting escapades. Pictured: Just Stop Oil activists during a protest at London Bridge in June 2023 The environmental group is selling three new products including this bag for eco-nuts to stash their superglue in before sticking themselves to roads The group is also selling this mug that reveals a 'hidden message' when it has a hot cup of coffee or tea in it The bag has 'Just Stop Oil' emblazoned on one side and 'This bag is full of superglue' on the other. The product description reads: 'Undyed tote-bag for your glue transportation needs. Not actually full of glue. 'Wear it to a protest and get picked out for a search because carrying glue is illegal now.' Meanwhile, the winter hat being sold by Just Stop Oil has the name of fellow eco group Insulate Britain on it. The description for the 'Insulate Britain Cotton Beanie' reads: 'Insulate Britain and insulate your bonce. One hundred per cent organic cotton. 'Perfect for winter walks or a picnic on the M25.' Just Stop Oil has carried out numerous protests blocking the motorway, including one incident in November 2022 when protesters climb onto gantries over the motorway for four successive days. Five protesters, including one of its co-founders Roger Hallam, were jailed over the the protests, which saw 45 people climb up the gantries, led to an economic cost of at least 765,000, in July this year. Elsewhere, the 'Thoughtcrime Heat-Reveal Mug' has a hidden message when it has a hot cup of coffee or tea in it. The bag has 'Just Stop Oil' emblazoned on one side and 'This bag is full of superglue' on the other The winter hat being sold by JSO has the name of fellow eco group Insulate Britain on it The 'Thoughtcrime Heat-Reveal Mug' has a hidden message when it has a hot cup of coffee or tea in it It reads: 'Thinking of committing a thoughtcrime? 'You need the heat-reveal mug that looks legit when the police raid your home, but when loaded up with a hot beverage, reveals a conspiratorial message. 'Perfect for those in low-key resistance against oil-based politicians and police. 'Just don't put it in the microwave or dishwasher.' This video is no longer available This video is no longer available READ MORE: Aussie mining CEO Terry Holohan is detained overseas after being arrested at a hotel Miner reveals how he cracked into the lucrative industry An Aussie has revealed how he found a six-figure mining job and was hired without any prior experience. The underground miner was approached by job seeker startup GetAhead in Melbourne and told the stunned host that it took just one connection to the industry through his father to land the lucrative role. '[I] didn't really have any idea I was going to get into underground mining,' he said in the short video. 'I just got asked at a barbecue off a mate's dad, who was a foreman in mines.' Since starting, he's netted himself a $200,000 a year salary, which is more than double the average gross salary for a tradie. He urged job hunters looking to land themselves of job in Australia's lucrative mining industry to just be persistent. 'Just keep trying,' he said. 'It's one of those industries where it's not what you know, it's who you know.' An Aussie miner revealed he landed himself a $200,000-a-year job over a backyard barbecue The host asked him how it felt to work deep below the earth's surface. 'A lot of people find it pretty out there and daunting, but yeah I suppose [it's] whatever you get used to,' he said. He said spending time away from home was a necessity to build wealth. 'You do what you've got to do to get ahead in life,' the miner added The average salary for a tradie last year was $90,940, up 11 per cent from 2019, according to insurance brokerage firm Trade Risk. 'We believe it is the best representation of how much Aussie tradies are really earning, as it uses the taxable incomes provided to us by thousands of self-employed tradies from around Australia,' Trade Risk said in its report. It found that boilermakers were Australia's highest paid trade workers and take home an average income of $112,535. Electricians took out second place with an average salary of $96,338 and plumbers rounded out the top three earning $95,507 annually. But the report showed the numbers can differ greatly. Australians need to complete a certification, the 'Standard 11' mandatory safety training course in order to work in the mines. Onsite accidents are a grave reminder mining is no easy pursuit. Mining is a lucrative industry in Australia, with workers often earning high salaries for FIFO work. Pictured is the Olympic Dam underground mine in Roxby Downs, South Australia An average of nine miners die at work in Australia each year, the third highest death toll of any industry, according to Safe Work Australia. A man in his 30s died at the Oaky Creek Coal mine in October in a machinery incident, sparking renewed calls from then- Queensland premier Steven Miles to address the cause of accidents in the industry. Volatility in the mineral markets also mean mines could close at a moments notice. Last week, ASX-listed Mineral Resources Limited announced it would cease operations at its Bald Hill lithium mine in Western Australia's Goldfields region 50km south-west of Kambalda. The mine is looking to reduce staff numbers to just ten to assist in the transition to a 'care and maintenance' shutdown. In a statement to the ASX, the publicly-traded company said that it needed to stop mining for the lithium-rich mineral spodumene due to the low prices it currently attracts. MinRes said the move 'will preserve cash and the value of Bald Hill's spodumene orebody for when conditions in the global lithium market improve'. The mining company hasn't ruled out resuming operations onsite if lithium prices increase. Three famous former trustees of an illustrious actors' charity have been sent a posion-pen letter, telling them they 'should be afraid'. Dame Penelope Keith, Dame Sian Phillips and Robert Bathurst have been targeted by the nasty note, which is now being investigated by police. The Actors' Benevolent Fund (ABF) is a charity whose members include a large number of big names from British film, television and theatre. In 2022, younger trustees of the ABF seized power from then-president Dame Penelope Keith, 84, and her long-serving trustees. Last month, tensions seemed to arise once again as Keith, Phillips and Bathurst were sent a letter from an anonymous source, making threats to the former trustees and others who had supported Keith, as reported by The Times. The letter said: 'You think police make me afraid. I'm not afraid. It's you who should be afraid.' Referring to the charity's annual general meeting, due to be held on Tuesday, it read: 'If you go to the AGM you're done.' The letter was sent to a relative of one of the former trustees of the ABF and is the second threat which they have received. Earlier last month a note was attached to minutes of a recent meeting, saying 'They're watching you.' For three years, the ABF has been in the midst of a civil war ever since veteran trustees including Keith, who had been president for 32 years, were ousted, as first reported by Private Eye. Penelope Keith (pictured), 84, is one of several actors who have been sent poison-pen letters Dame Sian Phillips, 90, a former trustee of the ABF has also been targeted by the threatening letter Robert Bathurst, 67, alongside other supporters of Dame Penelope Keith were told they should 'be afraid' Former trustees believe they were victims of an unlawful coup, which took place over Zoom by a show of hands. The Charity Commission has opened an investigation into the takeover. As well as dragging in many well known actors, the row has also involved the King, who is patron of the ABF. The charity was founded in 1882 by Sir Henry Irving, a star of the Victorian stage, to provide support to actors and stagehands who need financial or medical help. Current trustees now include Simon Callow and barrister Rob Rinder and current ambassadors include Doctor Who star Christopher Eccleston and Gavin and Stacey star Ruth Jones. Alongside Keith, trustees including Dame Sian, of I, Claudius fame, Brian Murphy, of Man About the House and Likely Lads actor James Bolam were reportedly ousted from the charity over claims they were 'bullying' general secretary Jonathan Ellicott. An investigation by an outside human resources expert cleared Keith and the trustees of bullying. In May, the Charity Commission closed its investigation into the ABF. The charity watchdog apologised to Keith and Phillips, admitting it had made 'blunders' in its handling of the case. Keith was replaced as president by Esh Alladi, 41, a stage actor and doctor who later stood down. The two letters have been given to police in London. The ABF said that it had not yet been approached by police but said that it would help officers with their inquiries. There is no suggestion that any of the current trustees are guilty of any wrongdoing. Members and representatives of the ousted trustees have asked about security arrangements at the AGM on Tuesday, which is being held at the Prince of Wales Theatre in the West End. When asked by The Sunday Times, the ABF said it would not disclose information on security measures. The ABF said: 'It is clearly very distressing to get this kind of letter and unfortunately our CEO also received such a letter herself,' The charity added: 'The Charity Commission, in 2022, identified many governance issues within the charity dating back years, which the current trustees and ABF team have subsequently worked hard to address. 'These include trustees not having had terms of office, leading to some being in post for many years, and no policies in place for important areas of work, which is not in line with good charity governance. 'The Charity Commission closed its regulatory compliance case into the ABF in May 2024 after the work by the new board and team. 'The charity is now in a positive place, focused on its beneficiaries, and by the end of 2024 we project we will have directly helped over 40 per cent more people than in 2023.' A teenage boy has been left 'traumatised' and fearing for his life after a shocking attack on him by a dozen others on his way home from school in Sydney south-west. Not only did the thugs assault the 15-year-old, they filmed themselves doing it, with the video now being a major part of a police investigation into last Wednesday's incident. The confronting footage began with the teen trying to de-escalate the situation while surrounded by several youths at Chester Hill train station. 'I haven't touched you. I haven't done anything,' he's heard pleading. But while he was distracted, a young male with a ponytail coward punched the victim twice as several others joined in on the ferocious beating. The Sefton High School student managed to escape but the pack of thugs chased after him and hunted him down. 'I tried to escape by running to the park next to the station and I lost my balance and fell on the ground,' the student told Nine News. Then the attack started again, with the person filming the merciless attack also taking a turn to kick the boy, who was lying helpless on the ground. Police are investigating an attack which has left a Sefton High School student 'traumatised' and afraid to leave home The teen (pictured) spent the night in the hospital after the brutal bashing 'They were ... more than 10 people,' the student said. Police were called to the scene but by then, the thugs had already fled. 'The boy was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before he was taken to Bankstown Hospital' a NSW Police spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia. The teen spent the night in the hospital and the police are now trying to track down his attackers. The boy's father hopes his son's attackers are caught and that no other family has to go through something like this. 'Make sure this never happen again in the future at any school in this area or even in Sydney,' the dad said. The gang of youth chased the teen to a nearby park where the brutal attack continued His son doesn't want to be identified as he's afraid the gang will target him again. The sickening assault has made him too fearful to go back to school or even out to the shops. He doesn't even want to watch the video of the attack. 'I don't dare to watch the video. I'm mentally traumatised,' he said. Police investigations continue. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Young sailors have relived a scary and freezing ordeal after gale force gusts capsized their boats during a regatta, sparking a dramatic rescue. Around 60 sailors, mostly children, were taking part in a sailing meet in Port Melbourne on Sunday morning when the weather turned for the worst and their boats were pummelled by powerful winds. A number of the vessels turned over in the wild weather, flinging the boaters into the rough waters in the shipping channel between Port Melbourne and Williamstown. Lifeguards and water police officers were assisted from the skies by Life Saving Victoria's rescue chopper and the police air wing in a coordinated rescue effort. Authorities reported no injuries and all sailors were wearing life jackets. The young sailors were relieved to be back on dry land. 'We were just sailing along normally and then all of a sudden it was just like, woah,' one told Nine News. Strong winds harried a fleet of sailing boats in Port Melbourne on Sunday Another recalled how his vessel suddenly keeled over in the wind. 'Twenty metres off the beach the boats just blew over, and like we were all just scared in the beach, swimming around and then, bang!' he said. Another said the icy conditions was tough on the seafarers. 'We definitely got luckier than some other people, they got like, some people got hypothermia,' she added. All were safely brought to shore. 'Little bit tough and a scary moment for some of the kids but all together they were all safe,' parent Julian Goussard said. The children recalled how their boats were capsized after a coordinated rescue effort returned them to the safety of the shore The shipping channel was closed for the duration of the rescue operation. Further down the bay, experienced sailors were also caught off-guard by the wild winds. One man was rushed to hospital suffering from hypothermia. A weathered sailor reported the winds reached 50 knots in strength and he was caught out. His crew tried to drop the sails but couldn't bring them in under the conditions. Winds reached 56km/h in Melbourne, 93km/h in St Kilda and 91km/h in Port Phillip Bay. The wild weather ruined the springtime sunshine in Melbourne around midday and fanned bushfires in Victoria's north-west. One home was lost in Kadnook, meanwhile hailstorms blasted the northeast of the state. Melbourne will reach a top of 19C on Monday with morning and early afternoon showers forecast. A teacher who was sacked after he was busted drinking on the job must undergo a series of strict requirements if he wishes to teach again. The man drank almost two full bottles while on duty on a day in February 2023, the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) heard. After drinking the wine, the teacher was on his way to his next class but was stopped after CCTV captured him downing the alcohol. A non-publication order on the case means neither the teacher nor the school can be named, to 'avoid endangering (his) physical or mental health or safety'. The man smuggled four bottles of wine into the school grounds and hid them in an area that was inaccessible to students, the Courier-Mail reported. 'During the course of a teaching day, (the teacher) accessed them and drank what appears to be at least almost two bottles of the wine,' the QCAT decision read. 'Moreover, he was observed as having done so immediately before leaving one part of the school area to go to his designated classroom to conduct teaching.' When the teacher was stopped, he was questioned about his conduct and was stopped from teaching his next class. A teacher who was caught drinking on the job after smuggling four bottles of wine into his school has learned his fate (stock image) The QCAT decision continued: 'It is said that his demeanour was 'reserved' and 'a little bit arrogant in a passive way', that he knew 'he had made a grave mistake', and that he did not offer any sort of insight into his conduct.' The man was sacked by the school, which notified the College of Teachers the following day, and his teaching registration was suspended. QCAT said though the teacher's registration was later cancelled by the College of Teachers, this was because he didn't pay the annual fee, not because of his conduct. The College of Teachers referred the case to QCAT, though, seeking orders that the teacher be formally reprimanded, and for conditions to be placed on his registration if he tries to renew it. The conditions sought included that he be required to undergo psychiatric and/or psychological testing, to provide reports on this testing, and to provide evidence of total abstinence from alcohol during a specified period before being allowed to have his suspension lifted and resume teaching. The teacher did not oppose a reprimand order against him, but did oppose the proposed conditions on his registration, saying they were 'unnecessary'. He said the reports the College of Teachers were looking for him to provide were already available and showed he was able to return to teaching. QCAT members Christopher Taylor, Robyn Oliver and Noel Jensen found the reprimand sought by the College of Teachers was not available under the Education Act. After drinking the wine, the teacher was on his way to his next class but was stopped after he was captured on CCTV downing the alcohol. (stock image) 'The respondent has undergone extensive medical treatment over the last 12 months in order to be fit to return to work,' their decision said. 'The most recent report is from a psychiatrist dated May 8, 2024. This extensive treatment is not disputed by the applicant (College of Teachers).' The QCAT members said only some of the conditions sought were reasonable when taking into account the teacher's protections under the Human Rights Act. They said if the Tribunal made an order that a notation about the man was to be placed on the College of Teachers' register, 'then it would have the effect of limiting his right to privacy and reputation'. QCAT ordered that the teacher must provide a report from a consultant psychiatrist or registered psychologist dated not earlier than six weeks before any re-registration application. That report must contain an assessment of his suitability to teach and work in a child-related field, the likelihood of him returning to his previous behaviour, and an assessment of his awareness of personal and social behaviour that would compromise his professional standing as a teacher. Oakland police are investigating three fatal shootings this week after 1 months without a homicide. Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle A person died Friday night in Oaklands third fatal shooting this week, police said. Officers responded to a shooting on the 1200 block of 86th Avenue at 7:30 p.m. and found a victim suffering from at least one gunshot wound, according to the Oakland Police Department. Despite paramedics efforts, the person was pronounced dead on scene, police said. The fatal shooting was the citys third this week, an increase in violence after at least a month and a half without any homicides. Advertisement Article continues below this ad On Thursday, police responded to a shooting on the 1300 block of Madison Street around 4:15 p.m. and found a man lying in the street, suffering from at least one apparent gunshot wound. Paramedics transported the victim, an Oakland resident, to an area hospital for treatment, but he was pronounced dead just before 9:30 p.m. The incident followed another fatal Oakland shooting Wednesday, which occurred at 2:30 p.m. on the 1100 block of 71st Avenue, police said. None of the victims identities was immediately released pending notification of next of kin. Authorities from the police departments homicide section are investigating all three shootings, and anyone with information is asked to contact investigators at 510-238-3821 or the tip line at 510- 238-7950. A BBC journalist has revealed how obscene phone calls were made to her phone by a convicted sex pest. Lucy Manning, who works as a special correspondent at the news corporation, spent more than two years trying to get her offender sentenced after the man made a series of lewd phone calls in October 2022. Ms Manning's horrific ordeal began when she received a call on her phone from a withheld number and, after picking up, she was met with the voice of a man making odd noises and appearing to masturbate down the phone. The journalist reacted in horror and immediately hung up, but her phone continued to ring. In a bid to gather more evidence against the offender, Ms Manning picked up again and began recording the call. She listened to the man calling out her name, 'using vulgar language', 'and making other obscene and lewd comments' for five minutes, all of which she captured on her recording. Ms Manning took the recording to the Metropolitan Police and within two months they were able to trace the suspect to an address in Lancashire. But it wasn't until earlier this week that the man, Amjad Khan, was finally found guilty of 'malicious communications by sending an offensive, indecent or threatening message' at Burnley Magistrates' Court. Reflecting on her two year crusade, Ms Manning said it was an 'eye-opening experience into why so many sexual offences go unreported or unpunished', which the Met and Lancashire Police have since apologised for. BBC journalist Lucy Manning has revealed how police failed to properly investigate obscene phone calls made to her phone by a convicted sex pest it it wasn't until earlier this week that the man, Amjad Khan (pictured), was finally found guilty of 'malicious communications by sending an offensive, indecent or threatening message' Immediately after the incident in 2022, Ms Manning called 999 to report what had happened, before visiting her local police station the next day where she gave a statement and handed over a copy of the tape recording. It was around this time that the journalist was covering the case of Wayne Couzens, the serving Metropolitan Police officer who kidnapped, raped and murdered Sarah Everard in 2021. Ms Manning became concerned that, like Couzens, who had previously committed less serious sexual offences, her offender could go on to commit more serious crimes if he wasn't caught promptly. She told BBC News: 'Coincidentally, I was speaking to Met commissioner Sir Mark Rowley the next day about the interim Casey report, commissioned after Sarah Everard's murder, which dealt with the force's institutional problems. 'As each day passed, I feared my offender could go on to sexually assault someone. I wanted to do everything in my power to make sure that wouldn't happen.' It wasn't until two months later, in December 2022, that police finally identified the withheld number and tracked the suspect down to an address in Lancashire, meaning Lancashire Police would be taking over. It took the force several days to obtain the information about Ms Manning's case, only after she chased them up. But a week later, she was told an officer had visited the home of Khan, but he hadn't answered the door. Lucy Manning appearing on BBC's Newsnight with presenter Victoria Derbyshire Ms Manning recorded the call with the unknown man and later took it to the Metropolitan Police as further evidence of the crime (File image) While Lancashire Police said another officer would be sent around again, they added that they wouldn't be able to arrest the man as he 'didn't meet the custody threshold'. Ms Manning relayed her concerns that the incident could be a 'gateway crime' to more serious offences, which seemingly had some effect as a month later Khan was arrested. He was then brought in for questioning where he denied calling Ms Manning and claimed hed lost his phone. Officers told Ms Manning it would be hard to charge him without further evidence and Khan was bailed on the condition he didnt contact the BBC journalist. In March 2023, police told Ms Manning they were going to close the investigation with no further action, which only caused her further frustration. She said: 'I was furious - they had the audio recording and theyd matched the phone number to the suspect. I felt their actions had given him the chance to get rid of the phone.' 'I told them I wouldnt accept that decision and would appeal against it, but in truth I wasnt sure how to do that.' Ms Manning was later contacted by a detective sergeant a few weeks later, who told her that they had carried out a Victims Right to Review on her behalf and had reopened the case. in December 2022, police identified the withheld number and tracked the suspect down to an address in Lancashire, meaning Lancashire Police would be taking over the case (File image) Police made another breakthrough in April when they found at that Khan had used a different SIM card to make the call to Ms Manning on the same phone. But, there seemed to be more hold ups, as it took another two months for Khan to be rearrested, while the evidence against him was eventually sent to prosecutors in November that year. In December, Khan was charged with an offence of malicious communications by sending an offensive, indecent or threatening message. He pleaded not guilty to the offence after making his first court appearance in February 2024. Khan was due to appear on trial at Lancaster Magistrates Court on November 5, but failed to turn up after his lawyer claimed he 'might not have seen the letter sent two weeks earlier, which changed the date of the hearing'. The trial was rescheduled to Monday November 11, where Khan was finally found guilty of the crime against Ms Manning, more than two years since it happened. But in another shocking twist, just days after his conviction, the journalist discovered it was not the first time Khan had been found guilty of such a horrid offence. 'Remarkably, I discovered a Lancashire Telegraph article from 2015 headlined Blackburn man made 15,000 dirty calls in 91 days to total strangers",' she revealed. 'It was the same man, convicted nearly a decade ago. I was incredulous. From start to finish it felt like there were so many unnecessary obstacles to getting a conviction.' Khan was finally found guilty of the crime against Ms Manning at Burnley Magistrates' Court (pictured) on November 11 Ms Manning said that despite, the process taking so long, she was 'pleased I pushed so hard to get this man convicted'. But she was also 'dismayed' over the efforts she had to go through to get there and highlighted concerns over 'the inefficiency, the failures and the delays' of the police that could see other similar crimes go unpunished. In response to the article, the Met Police told BBC News: 'Our handling of this case clearly fell short and we do not underestimate the awful impact upon Ms Manning. 'Such serious offences cause very real fear for victims and deserve a professional and swift response.' Lancashire Police added that their 'initial handling of this case did not meet the standard expected but following a review and further contact with the victim a man was arrested, charged and convicted. 'We hope that the successful conviction gives her some sense that justice has been done, although we recognise this has taken longer than she may have hoped.' A former pensions minister has warned that pensioners could freeze to death waiting to see if they are eligible for the winter fuel allowance after Labour scrapped the universal payment earlier this year. Baroness Altmann said the decision to make the winter fuel payment a means-tested benefit was 'extremely cruel, poorly conceived and actually dangerous'. Winter 2024 marks the first time the benefit - first rolled out by the Blair government in 1997 - has been means-tested, depriving an estimated 10 million pensioners of additional help with their heating bills. From now on, recipients must be of State Pension age and also in receipt of one of a select number of means-tested benefits including Pension Credit, Universal Credit and Child and Working Tax Credits. It's a move designed to save the Government 1.5billion a year by taking away the payment, worth up to 300, from those who are well off enough to get by without it. However, it has been condemned by a number of age awareness charities who say that some of those who still need it will no longer be eligible - while thousands of people who are unaware they are entitled to it are missing out. The DWP says it has ramped up capacity to handle the additional requests - but official statistics show more than 30 per cent of eligible pensioners are missing out on the benefit. This means hundreds of thousands of people are likely missing out on the extra money - and as of now, the winter fuel allowance too. A former pensions minister has warned that older people could be at risk of freezing to death if they go without the Winter Fuel Allowance (stock image) Baroness Altmann said thousands of pensioners were not receiving the Pension Credit they were entitled to - depriving them of the newly means-tested benefit Your browser does not support iframes. Work and Pensions secretary Liz Kendall says as many as 880,000 people may be missing out on winter fuel payment after it was limited to those on lower incomes However, there are concerns that many of those eligible to claim Pension Credit and receive the winter fuel allowance are struggling to complete the gargantuan 24-page form, which has 243 questions. Those already on Pension Credit are likely to have received a letter informing them of the extra winter cash, which is normally paid between November and December. But those who apply closer to the December 21 deadline may wait longer for the cash. Former pensions minister Baroness Altmann told the Sunday Express she feared the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) was 'struggling to deal with the new pension credit applications it has already received'. She added: 'Those eligible for help may still not receive anything this winter unless some changes are made, which so far there is no sign of. 'I truly fear for the lives of some of these frail, elderly people as the weather gets cold.' Official DWP statistics suggest just 65 per cent of pensioners who were eligible for Pension Credit in the financial year ending 2023 - and that 700,000 people who are entitled to it are not claiming it. Work and Pensions secretary Liz Kendall told Parliament last month the figure may have surged to as many as 880,000 people. And in a letter to the Social Security Advisory Committee, which had urged the government to conduct an impact assessment into the winter fuel cuts, she claimed applications for the benefit had tripled in the weeks after the budget. Tory MPs gathered outside Parliament last month calling on the Labour government to reinstate universal winter fuel payments The move has also been condemned by those in Labour's circles (pictured: a march organised by trade union Unite last month) Pensioners are being urged to check if they can claim Pension Credit - but must navigate a 24-page form of over 200 questions (stock image) An impending cold snap is about to hit Britain with yellow warnings for snow and ice (left) in northern Scotland and parts of England and Wales. Temperatures will dip as low as 1C at midday on Tuesday (right) Further, she said the government was writing to every OAP household in Britain to encourage them to check if they qualify. 'We are determined to do everything we can to maximise take-up of Pension Credit,' Ms Kendall wrote. But Joanna Elson, chief executive of charity Independent Age, warned there was 'simply not enough time' to get pension credit to everyone who is eligible. The charity has recruited famous faces such as Sue Holderness, Jane Asher and Brian Cox to encourage people to check if they can claim the benefit. It comes as a cold snap rolls in to the UK later today - with a yellow weather warning for snow and ice being introduced across northern Scotland at 4pm today. A further warning covering huge swathes of northern England, the Scottish Borders and northern Wales comes into effect tomorrow, with daytime temperatures dipping to just 1C for some parts of the country into the start of next week. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a Cold Health Alert for large swathes of England running from now until Thursday - putting NHS services on notice to expect greater demand from the vulnerable, including the elderly. Katherine Crawford, CEO of Age Scotland, said pre-existing medical conditions can be exacerbated by the cold snap and that the elderly are particularly vulnerable to transport disruption caused by inclement weather. A DWP spokesperson said: 'We want to ensure all pensioners get the support they're entitled to, which is why we are deploying over 500 extra staff to process the expected increase in claims. 'Our pension credit campaign has also been successful in boosting applications by 152 per cent. 'Successful claims for pension credit can be backdated by three months, so all eligible claims made by December 21 would also receive a winter fuel payment as well as arrears of pension credit. 'We continue to urge anyone who thinks they may be entitled to pension credit to check now.' A crime commissioner responsible for a police force facing criticism for visiting a journalist over a year-old social media post has questioned whether investigating hundreds of non-crime hate incidents is worthy of officers' time. Roger Hirst, the police, fire and crime commissioner for Essex has defended the county's force in the face of a backlash over the treatment of Telegraph columnist Allison Pearson. She is under investigation for allegedly stirring up racial hatred in a tweet posted, and then quickly deleted, last year. But Mr Hirst did say there was a 'debate' to be had over whether officers should be spending so much time on looking into social media posts. Essex Police has been condemned for its actions by critics including former prime minister Boris Johnson after Ms Pearson was not told the specific focus of the enquiry. She revealed that officers from the force knocked on her door on Remembrance Sunday earlier this month to inform her of the probe. Ms Pearson has since insisted in a ten-point post on X that she was not 'racist' and that she 'did not post a racist tweet'. Mr Hirst, a Conservative candidate who was first elected to his commissioner post in 2016, was quizzed about the investigation on radio station LBC this morning. Telegraph columnist Allison Pearson, pictured in New York in September 2011, has criticised Essex Police officers to visiting her home on Remembrance Sunday over a social media post The journalist says officers have over-reacted to a year-old post she is said to have written on X, formerly Twitter, before swiftly deleting - this is among her posts this month in response Roger Hirst, the police, fire and crime commissioner for Essex, has said there should be debate on the time used by officers when looking into non-crime hate incidents He told interviewer Lewis Goodall: 'You know, I think - I'm not sure that commenting on a live police inquiry is the thing, but this is clearly a hot topic. It's something that we do need to clear up. 'There was a very real debate here around particularly I think, the non crime hate incidents and are they taking police time? Actually not directly relevant to the case in hand, but quite a big issue in Essex. 'Last year the police looked at over 700 non crime hate incidents. Is that necessarily a good use of time?' He said there was 'a good debate that needs to be had' about what he called 'the current regime of obliging the police to be data monitors and record all of this stuff'. Mr Hirst insisted that Essex Police was doing well on 'building relationships with all of the communities, whether they be Muslim, whether they be Jewish, pro-Palestine, pro-Gazan, whatever it may be or many, many more than that'. 'We have that in Essex - that's the focus, no on recording incidents which may or may not be trivial', he added. Among those lambasting Essex Police for their probe into Ms Pearson was ex-PM Mr Johnson, who wrote in a post on X: 'This is appalling. How can Starmer's Britain lecture other countries about free speech when an innocent journalist gets a knock on the door - for a tweet? 'Our police have their hands full of burglaries and violent crime. They are being forced to behave like a woke Securitate - and it has to stop.' Roger Hirst told LBC radio today: 'Last year the police looked at over 700 non crime hate incidents. Is that necessarily a good use of time?' Former prime minister Boris Johnson, pictured at Fortune's Global Forum in New York on Remembrance Sunday this month, has criticised Essex Police over their actions Boris Johnson branded the investigation 'appalling' and an attack on free speech Kemi Badenoch, the new Conservative Party leader, has also backed the Telegraph columnist, saying that police visiting her home was 'absolutely wrong'. 'There has been a long-running problem with people not taking free speech seriously,' Mrs Badenoch told The Telegraph. She added: 'We shouldn't have journalists getting visited by the police for expressing opinions. That's absolutely wrong, we need to look at the laws around non-crime hate incidents.' 'Keir Starmer says he is someone who believes in these things. Now he needs to actually show that he does believe it. All we've seen from him is the opposite.' One of Ms Badenoch's predecessors as Tory leader, Sir Iain Duncan Smith, today backed her for speaking out on the controversy. He told LBC: 'I think she's quite at liberty to comment on what looks to me like a complete absurdity. 'You know, I am at the moment campaigning like mad in my constituency and many others are to get the police onto the streets to stop the shoplifters going on in open, standing on the pavements, going into shops, threatening the shopkeepers, raiding these places to the tune of 10,000 a time, destroying the peace and certainty of the high streets. That's where we want the police. 'What I don't want the police to do is to go investigating something that happened a year or so ago that was a comment from a journalist. Ms Pearson (pictured in 2011) said she was 'shocked' to have officers turn up on her doorstep on Remembrance Sunday earlier this month Allison Pearson has used X, formerly Twitter, to defend herself and criticise Essex Police 'This is kind of thought police territory and whatever else happens, that's got to stop. Let's get the police to do the one thing that every member of the public wants them to do, get after antisocial behavior.' When asked about Sir Iain's comments, Mr Hirst responded: 'Well, certainly we don't want thought police in this country. 'This is absolutely about having a free country, isn't it, really? And there's a tension here between freedom of speech and rule of law. Both of those are absolutely core pillars of our democracy. "It is my job to make sure that the police act even-handedly and we will have no two-tier policing in Essex. Everyone's equal under the law and if there is a complaint made, then the police are duty bound to investigate it. 'I have to say, you know, it's fairly evident, isn't it really, that it's not been treated as a high priority - it's taken a year to actually go and knock on the door. But nevertheless, this is something which has to be dealt with by due process.' The Guardian has claimed to have uncovered the post at the centre of the row, despite Ms Pearson saying she was unable to recall the exact tweet. The newspaper alleged that it was a message sent last November, seemingly branding supporters of Imran Khan's political party in Pakistan as 'Jew haters' without evidence - and accusing the Met Police of complicity for posing for a photo with them. The post was a comment on a group of people posing with a green and maroon flag used by supporters of the party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) flanked by police officers. Kemi Badenoch (pictured) has said people need to stop 'wasting police time on trivial incidents' after officers visited journalist's home over a year-old tweet At the time, Ms Pearson allegedly said: 'How dare they. Invited to pose for a photo with lovely peaceful British Friends of Israel on Saturday police refused. Look at this lot smiling with the Jew haters.' But the picture is from Manchester, meaning the officers do not belong to the Met Police. It is thought there was potentially some confusion between the PTI supporters and those who advocate for Hamas terrorists in the war with Israel. The complainant, who is not Muslim nor one of the people in the photo, told the Guardian: 'Pearson tweeted something that had nothing to do with Palestine or the London protest. Her description of the two people of colour as Jew haters is racist and inflammatory. 'I was concerned about the tweet that Pearson put out last year so much so that I reported it to the police. She could have tweeted an apology stating she was wrong. She didn't.' Ms Pearson said the policemen at her door said they were investigating a 'non-crime hate incident'. Essex Police dispute this and said the officers, who had made attempts to contact Ms Pearson before the visit, were clear the alleged offence was inciting racial hatred. The force has previously said that officers went to an address last Sunday to invite Ms Pearson to attend a voluntary interview as part of their investigation. A spokesman said: 'We're investigating a report which was passed to us by another force. Allison Pearson (pictured) is accused of stirring up racial hatred in a post on social media last year - she has said she does not remember the post in question 'The report relates to a social media post which was subsequently removed. An investigation is now being carried out under Section 17 of the Public Order Act.' Ms Pearson said she was told the investigation was about a post on social media platform X, and that officers were unable to give her details of the post in question or identify her accuser due to laws governing procedure. She added: 'This was the most extraordinary overreach and state intrusion into my private life and I don't think I did anything wrong and I think their response was outrageous.' She said she had no recollection of what she posted but that if it was a year ago, it could have been linked to the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel or pro-Palestine marches shortly afterwards. An urgent hunt is underway after an elderly grandmother was seriously injured in an unprovoked attack in the carpark of a fast food restaurant. The woman, 84 remains in hospital undergoing surgery following the alleged assault in Midland in Perth's east at about 12.30pm on Saturday. Police allege she was confronted by another woman in the car park, who knocked the grandmother to the ground before fleeing the scene. The grandmother was rushed to Royal Perth Hospital with head injuries, where she's in a serious but stable condition. Her prognosis remains unclear, according to her daughter. 'We won't know until after surgery. She needs to survive the operation, then there's the recovery,' she wrote online on Sunday night. Police have released an image of the woman they believe can assist with their inquiries Detectives have a second day scouring CCTV trying to establish a motive for alleged assault. Western Australian Police have released an image of the woman they believe can assist with their inquiries. She is described as 160cm tall, medium build with short brown hair and brown eyes. She was wearing a black T-shirt and shorts at the time. Police urged anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers. A group of neo-Nazis carrying flags bearing swastikas were seen marching through the streets of Ohio on Saturday. The shocking display - done in Columbus in broad daylight - has left Americans outraged after footage of it quickly circulated online. Social media posts started swirling around 1pm, showing a dozen of the culprits all wearing masks. In them, the suspects are heard airing chants disparaging people of color and those who are Jewish. Cops were then dispatched for an investigation. No arrests have been made thus far. Investigators are looking into the claims from an unnamed 911 caller, who said one of the group sprayed a passerby with pepper spray. Local politicians revealed their outrage following the neo-Nazi event - including the state's governor and the city's mayor. City Attorney Zach Klein issued a statement as well, condemning those involved. It happened in the city's Short North Arts District - a trendy area known for its artwork. Scroll down for video: A group of Neo-Nazis carrying flags bearing swastikas were seen marching through the streets of Columbus, Ohio on Saturday afternoon - hurling racist and anti-Semitic chants at citizens The display - which has since sparked a police investigation following reports of physical altercations involving the unidentified group - has left Americans outraged. Footage of it quickly circulated 'To those involved in the neo-Nazi march in the Short North today, take your flags and the masks you hide behind and go home and never come back,' the prosecutor said in a post to X. 'Your hate isn't welcome in our city.' Mayor Andrew Ginther, a Democrat, released a scathing response as well, in which he promised people of all creeds how cops would ensure their safety after pro-white chants had rattled them to their core. 'The Columbus community stands squarely against hatred and bigotry,' his statement continued. 'We will not allow any of our neighbors to be intimidated, threatened or harmed because of who they are, how they worship or whom they love. 'Together, we reject the cowardly display reported in the Short North... and we will continue to monitor the situation in partnership with the Columbus Division of Police to ensure the safety and security of our city.' Ohio Republican Gov. Mike DeWine also took notice, issuing perhaps the most stern undressing of them all. In it, he told onlookers how he 'will not tolerate hate in Ohio', after a similar procession was seen earlier in the week in Michigan. In them, the suspects are heard airing chants disparaging people of color and Jews, as they pass by terrified residents 'Chants of white power' were also heard, as witnesses told cops one of the group sprayed someone with pepper spray 'Neo-Nazis - their faces hidden behind red masks - roamed streets in Columbus today, carrying Nazi flags and spewing vile and racist speech against people of color and Jews,' DeWine wrote. 'There were reports that they were also espousing white power sentiments.' He added: 'There is no place in this State for hate, bigotry, antisemitism, or violence. 'We must denounce it wherever we see it.' The American public reacted to the footage as well, with many categorizing it as perturbing. 'Nazis marched through Columbus, carrying flags with swastikas, yelling racial slurs and profanities,' one X user wrote. '[N]azis proudly walking down the streets of [C]olumbus in 2024, this country will never learn,' another who saw the procession in person and re-shared footage added. Police dispatchers, meanwhile, told cops how a litany of callers reported the group hurling racial slurs at residents in addition to the inflammatory chants - specifically toward people of color. Ohio Republican Gov. Mike DeWine issued a statement chiding the group, as an investigation headed by the Columbus Police Department continues Andy Ginther, Columbus's mayor, issued a response as well, as the incidents quickly gained traction on social media. As of Sunday morning, the city's investigation remained ongoing They also spoke negatively about Jewish people and positively of white power and appeared to be armed, the dispatchers said - according to Sgt. Joe Alber with the Columbus Police Department. In an email Sunday, he said officers were dispatched at 1:20pm to North High Street and East Lincoln Street following an initial report of 'a group of individuals dressed in all black and armed with firearms holding Nazi Swastika signs.' He added how once officers arrived, the group 'left the area without incident.' 'Officers stopped a van the group left in a short distance away to investigate the potential assault that may have taken place,' he went on to add. 'Many of the individuals inside the van were detained. However, it was later determined that an assault did not take place and all of the individuals were released.' Alber did not name any of those involved in the traffic stop due to a lack of a charge, and cops could not confirm any other arrests related to the case. The name of group responsible for the display remains unknown, the public information officer added - as footage showed them donning attire and signage emblazoned with a red skull. During the Nazi era, Hitler's SS touted a similar skull image as their symbol. Similar scenes were seen at not one but two Michigan towns the weekend before, when another group waving flags with swastikas sought to upend a play about Anne Frank. American Legion Post 141 in Howell, a town west of Detroit, was hosting the production based on 'The Diary of Anne Frank' on November 9, when the number of masked men showed up - all allegedly shouting antisemitic and racist slurs. American Legion, a veteran's organization, agreed to host the play in response to rising antisemitism in the United States, making it all the more shocking that the very thing they were fighting against came right to their doorstep. Bobby Brite, a past commander of the post and a 26-year US Army veteran, was there and confronted the neo-Nazis. He posted a live video of them to the legion's Facebook page. The Fowlerville Community Theatre, which put on the play, said in a statement that men were in the parking lot of the American Legion building before they were 'moved' to the other side of the street. The play continued, and was performed again the next day without incident. In that particular case, it remains unclear if police were the ones to remove them from the property. The investigation into the claims surrounding the more recent incident in Ohio, meanwhile, remains ongoing. Farmers have been left 'betrayed' by Labour's inheritance tax raid and Rachel Reeves has 'ripped the rug out' from the industry, a union boss claimed today. Tom Bradshaw, president of the National Farmers' Union (NFU), delivered a fresh blast at the Chancellor's Budget measures ahead of planned protests this week. There has been uproar since Ms Reeves announced she is imposing inheritance tax on previously exempt agricultural estates worth over 1million, at a rate of 20 per cent. Critics have warned that move will wipe out family-run farms who will be forced to sell up in order to pay death duties. Thousands of farmers are due to attend protests in Westminster on Tuesday against the Chancellor's 'disastrous' move. There have even been threats of strikes, which could hit supplies of meat, barley and oats, over what has been dubbed Labour's 'family farm tax'. But Mr Bradshaw criticised plans to halt supplies of food to supermarkets and said the NFU would not condone the clearing of store shelves. Farmers have been left 'betrayed' by Labour's inheritance tax raid and Rachel Reeves has 'ripped the rug out' from the industry, a union boss claimed today Tom Bradshaw, president of the National Farmers' Union (NFU), delivered a fresh blast at the Chancellor's Budget measures ahead of planned protests this week Farmers staged a protest against the inheritance tax changes in Llandudno, Wales, yesterday as Labour held their Welsh conference 'I think the industry is feeling betrayed, feeling angry,' the union boss told Sky News. 'We have a Government saying food security is a critical part of national security. 'Yet they've ripped the rug out from that very industry which is going to invest in food security for the future.' But the NFU president said he did not 'for one moment condone' withholding food from supermarkets in protest. 'That is not an NFU tactic, we do not support emptying supermarket shelves,' he added. 'But I do completely understand the strength of feeling that there is amongst farmers, they feel helpless today, and they're trying to think of what can they do to try and demonstrate what this means to them. 'So look, I understand their strength of feeling, but we are not supporting that action.' Treasury data shows that around three-quarters of farmers will pay nothing in inheritance tax as a result of the controversial Budget changes. But farmers have challenged the figures and pointed instead to data from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) which suggests 66 per cent of farm businesses are worth more than the 1 million threshold at which inheritance tax will now need to be paid. Also appearing on Sky News this morning, Cabinet minister Louise Haigh swerved questions about why the PM did not speak to protesting farmers outside the Welsh Labour conference Also appearing on Sky News this morning, Cabinet minister Louise Haigh swerved questions about why the Prime Minister did not speak to farmers as they staged a protest outside the Welsh Labour conference yesterday. 'We do recognise the difficult situation that many are in, but we think the choices that we set out in the Budget are fair and proportionate,' the Transport Secretary said. Asked about contingency plans for food security if farmers strike, Ms Haigh added: 'DEFRA will be setting out plans for the winter and setting out contingency plans and ensuring that food security is treated as the priority it deserves to be.' Tory shadow home secretary Chris Philp said the rise in inheritance tax is a 'war on farmers' that will 'undermine our food security'. Farmers are often 'struggling to make ends meet', he said. 'So the fact that Labour has declared war on farmers is obviously bad for farmers. 'But it's actually bad for all of us, because it'll undermine our food security.' The NFU is holding a mass lobby of MPs on Tuesday, with 1,800 members gathering in Westminster three times the original number planned as part of efforts to force a rethink. A separate rally taking place on the same day in central London has had to move location because of growing support from farmers. Organisers say it will now take place on Whitehall, opposite Downing Street. The rally aims to send a message that family farms and the rural community 'stand united against the Government's catastrophic Budget', they added. Farmers will hear from celebrities and farming leaders, including Mr Bradshaw. Attendees are being asked to wear their boots and wellies as a sign of working people, and bring British produce for a mass food bank donation. A procession to Parliament Square will be spearheaded by children on toy tractors. But organisers have told those coming to the rally they should not bring their farm machinery. The Chancellor plans to limit the 100 per cent relief for family farms to only the first 1million of combined agricultural and business property. For anything above that, landowners will pay a 20 per cent tax rate, rather than the standard 40 per cent rate of inheritance tax applied to other land and property. Speaking on Friday, Sir Keir Starmer admitted some farmers were 'anxious' about Labour 's changes to inheritance tax. But he said the 'vast majority' of farms would be 'totally unaffected' as he claimed a couple using all their inheritance tax benefits will be able to pass on a 3million farm tax free. Sir Keir also stressed that any inheritance tax charge on farms can be paid over 10 years. 'I know some farmers are anxious about the inheritance tax rules that we brought in two weeks ago,' he said. 'What I would say about that is, once you add the 1m for the farmland, to the 1million that is exempt, to the 1million that is exempt for your spouse. 'For most couples with a farm wanting to hand on to their children, it's 3million before anybody pays a penny in inheritance tax. 'That's why the vast majority of farms are going to be totally unaffected by that.' A California man who became 'obsessed' with a teenage girl he met through the furry community has been convicted of plotting the murders of her family. Frank Felix, 33, was found guilty of murder on Tuesday for killing three people in 2016, according to the Orange County District Attorney's Office. Felix, then 25, met then 17-year-old Katlynn Goodwill Yost at a 'furry convention' an event for people who dress up and role play as animals. The two became romantically involved, but the girl's mother, 39-year-old Jennifer Goodwill-Yost, and her stepfather, 35-year-old Christopher Yost, disapproved of the relationship. After their relationship ended, Felix and his friend then 21-year-old Joshua Acosta, an Army mechanic stationed at Ft. Irwin in Barstow, plotted to free Katlynn from her parents. On the morning of September 24, 2016, Katlynn let Acosta into her family's home where he shot her parents and killed a family friend sleeping on the couch. Felix and Katlynn waited in a truck outside, and the couple's six-year-old and nine-year-old daughters found their parents bodies. The jury deliberate for around 45 minutes on Tuesday and convicted Felix of three counts of special circumstances murder, reported The Orange County Register. Frank Felix (pictured at trial), 33, was convicted for his role in murdering the family of a teenage girl he became obsessed with Felix, then 25, met then 17-year-old Katlynn Goodwill Yost (pictured) at a 'furry convention' with her parents Jennifer Goodwill-Yost (center) and Christopher Yost (left) His sentencing is scheduled for January 17, where he faces the possibility of life in prison without parole. 'Two little girls, six and nine, went to sleep not knowing the last time they would see their parents would be when they woke up to find them shot to death,' said Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer. 'The trauma inflicted on those little girls compounded by the loss both of their parents in such a violent way is beyond heartbreaking. Violence is never the answer, and a sick and twisted plan turned into life behind bars for two young men.' Prosecutors showed that Felix developed an obsession with the girl after their relationship fell apart, growing to the point of self-mutilation. They said in one instance, Felix cut himself in front of the teenager. At an earlier trial, Katlynn testified that Felix had 'blackmailed' her into having sex with him. During the week leading up to the murder, he planned their deaths with Acosta through email. They purchased bolt cutters, ear plugs and shotgun ammo in Burbank, California. The prosecution stated Felix wrote to an acquaintance: 'I might be assisting someone in murder.' When advised by the friend not to go through with it, Felix switched up and said he was talking about an animal. Katlynn and her mom Jennifer were both in the furry community. The 17-year-old's fursona was named Day Dreamer Fox Wolf Katlynn's parents disapproved of the relationship and after it ended Felix plotted to 'free' her from them Felix conspired with his friend Joshua Acosta to kill the teen's family. Felix and Katlynn waited outside while Acosta shot her parents and a family friend They also noted the defendant was 'nervous' in the email exchanges with Acosta where they detailed their plans. In one instance, they wrote whoever answered the front door would either be pushed aside or shot. Acosta was the one who agreed to carry out the murders after Katlynn told them she had been molested by her stepfather Christopher on a weekly basis she would also testify about this in the former army mechanic's trial in 2018 in exchange for immunity. Using Felix's father's shotgun, Acosta shot family friend Arthur 'Billy' Boucher, 28, in the head as he slept on the couch. Then he entered Jennifer's bedroom where he shot her between the eyes as she slept and finally gunned down Christopher as he tried to make a break for it out the back door After the couple's young children found their bodies, the teenager was regarded as missing until she was found later. Authorities at the base where Acosta was stationed found the three shotgun shells that were later tied to the killing. Acosta was found guilty of the murders and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole in 2018. A Colorado drug dealer was arrested for selling to minors and sexually assaulting a teenager after a 15-year-old plunged to his death. Benjamin Harmon, 24, allegedly dealt psychedelic mushrooms to Boulder high schooler Ames August O'Neal on June 20. Three days later, O'Neal fell from a crane and died on the University of Colorado construction site of a hotel and conference center. Harmon has dealt mushrooms to at least 19 other minors - one of which he allegedly sexually assaulted at gunpoint, according to a statement from Boulder County. The statement also revealed he 'obtained child sexual abuse materials' from another child victim he was distributing illicit substances to. Harmon was arrested on October 19 and faces 21 drug felonies for dealing mushrooms to minors. He has also been accused of sexual assault on a child using force, sexual exploitation of a child and contributing to the delinquency of a minor for providing marijuana and alcohol to minors, according to the statement. Every victim involved in Harmon's arrest was a high school student and some of his drug deals took place within 1,000ft of a school. Ames August O'Neal, 15, plunged to his death from a crane after taking psychedelic mushrooms in June Benjamin Harmon, 24, faces 21 drug felonies and 40 counts in total for selling drugs to at least 19 high schoolers and sexually assaulting one Altogether, Harmon was hit with 40 individual counts. O'Neal's death triggered the grand jury investigation that led to Harmon's arrest. Chief of Police John Monahan said in a statement: 'CUPD conducted a thorough investigation in partnership with the Boulder County District Attorneys Office. 'Our thoughts are with all the victims, and their family and friends, during this difficult time.' The University of Colorado Police Department, the Boulder County Drug Task Force, and District Attorneys Office worked collaboratively to 'investigate the death and surrounding circumstances,' according to the statement. Police set him up on August 7 after O'Neal's death by using his phone to coordinate a fake drug deal in the same parking lot Harmon allegedly sold O'Neal the mushrooms that led to his death. They also looked into his social media history and bank records as a part of the investigation that got him indicted. Harmon admitted to detectives that he knew his customers were underage, CBS reported. District Attorney Michael Dougherty said in a statement: 'The loved ones of the 15-year-old boy who was killed continue to suffer from a terrible and tragic loss. O'Neal fell from a University of Colorado construction site for a hotel and conference center O'Neal's death triggered an investigation into Harmon. The teen's family started a nonprofit in his honor Psychedelic mushrooms are legal for people 21 and over in Colorado, but they are illegal on the federal level 'The extensive investigation into his death has led the CU Police Department, Drug Task Force, and DA team to identify other kids being harmed and exploited through drug distribution conducted over a social media app. We are strongly committed to securing the right outcome in this case.' Harmon's status conference will be held on Tuesday and is being held at Boulder County jail on a $2 million bond, CBS reported. In their son's memory, O'Neal's parents, Stephanie and Greg, created the Ames O'Neal Memorial Fund, a nonprofit organization to 'support young people in creating a more wondrous world,' its website reads. Colorado legalized the medicinal use of psychedelic mushrooms for anyone 21 or older in 2022. But the drug is federally illegal and not backed by the FDA. It is a Schedule 1 controlled substance by the US Drug Enforcement Administration. Oregon was the first state to decriminalize mushrooms. More than 600 angry residents marched in protest against plans for a new waste incinerator. Residents of Weymouth and Portland took part in a march as a protest against the government's decision to build a new incinerator in the area. Plans for the incinerator were rejected by Dorset Council prompting an appeal and a public inquiry, however this decision was then overturned by the Secretary of State and the incinerator was given the green light. The protest in Weymouth was organised by the Stop Portland Incinerator Campaign, which has highlighted the environmental impacts the incinerator will have on the area. It began at 11am outside the 19th century Jubilee Clock on the Weymouth Esplanade. Activists made speeches supporting the protests before the locals marched with banners and shouted in opposition to the incinerator. Several members of the Great Britain sailing team, who train in Weymouth, were present. Planning permission was granted in September to build a large waste incinerator on the Isle of Portland, but the decision was met with huge backlash. Protestors hold up letters spelling out 'No Incinerator' on Weymouth seafront Dorset Council has said that it will not be taking legal action against the government's decision to allow the waste incinerator as it cannot justify spending such a large sum of money on a case they are not sure they can win. Local campaigners are attempting to take the case to the High Court and are now trying to crowdfund the legal fees. It is believed around 40,000 will initially be required for legal fees. Weymouth Town Council have agreed to contribute 2,000. Powerfuel Portland has previously said that the incinerator will not treat hazardous or clinical waste, instead safely using the latest technology to safely and efficiently produce low-carbon energy from non-recyclable waste. The incinerator will be built at Portland Port which previously caused controversy by agreeing to moor the Bibby Stockholm barge, which housed 500 asylum seekers, but will be closed in January. Former Portland councillor and climate activist Giovanna Lewis said before the protest: 'There is no doubt people are very cross and disappointed and just find it incredible that this is going ahead and they want to show their feelings about it. 'We have raised over 70,000 in the past six weeks, 30,000 is from the public, that just shows you how local people feel. Crowds march with placards, one which says 'stop toxic fumes now', another says 'Starmer We want change not more of the same' Protestors hold up signs saying 'you must be choking' and 'Langham Wine profit from pollution' - Langham wine has the same owners as Portland Port A sign on a bus shelter on Portland says 'Stop the Incinerator' A huge crowd marches through Weymouth Town Centre in protest against the incinerator Campaigner Giovanna Lewis (centre) leads protestors on a march down Weymouth seafront Two young boys on Weymouth seafront hold up a sign saying 'Polluting the air? Don't you dare' Two ladies hold up signs, one says 'The Royal manor of Portland. Respect It!' and the other is 'NO' written in large red letters More than 600 protestors are thought to have taken part in the demonstration in Weymouth 'Portland Port continues to bring things to Portland that we don't want, first they bring in the (Bibby Stockholm) barge and now they are hell-bent on bringing this atrocious incinerator to the island. 'The community is strongly against this, we we will try every way that we can to stop it 'The message from Portland is that we are not giving up and we will fight this all the way.' Cllr Jon Orrell, Mayor of Weymouth said: 'The damage is to our unique world heritage status Jurassic Coast. It is not the right place. 'We have tried local democracy. Town councils for Portland and Weymouth fought it. Dorset council planning rejected it. We have been let down by a junior Labour minister who overturned local people and democracy.' A e-bike riding thief who snatched a mobile from the hands of a woman sat at a bus stop has been caught by police after a series of crimes. A dramatic video shows the moment the crook rides onto the pavement, wearing all black and a face covering, followed by a group of youths also riding e-bikes. He then rides up to a bus stop and steals the phone out of the victim's hands whilst she is using it. The video was released by the Metropolitan Police, which shows them tracking the rider in a police helicopter as he makes off with the stolen phone. In the video, they identify the thief as having stolen multiple phones. At the end of the video, officers catch up with the suspect and he is detained by the police at a youth centre. The dramatic moment as the thief snatches the phone right out of the victims hands at a bus stop The crook is then seen riding off, but is captured on CCTV by officers who are tracking him Officers catch up with the suspect at a youth centre and he is detained In the video, an officer said: 'We were approached by a member of the public who saw him throw a bum bag type bag whilst travelling down Holton Road. 'We have got it in our possession, it has multiple stolen phones inside wrapped in in tin foil. Another officer said: 'He's shown no regard for any pedestrians.' The Met Police have said in the first half of this year officers have recovered more than 750 stolen phones. Detective Superintendent Saj Hussain, who leads on phone robbery and theft in the Met, previously said: 'Thanks to these observant and fast-acting officers another mobile phone thief has been taken off the streets of London. 'We understand the impact robbery can have on victims and we also recognise that there is still much more to do to tackle the problem as we make London safer. Police tracked the suspect using a police helicopter and thermal imaging The video shows police following him from above as he rides away with the phone 'Met officers are targeting resources in hotspot areas with increased patrols and plain clothes officers - and this result makes clear this approach is having a positive impact. 'We encourage people to report as soon as they can whenever they have been the victim of a robbery or theft so officers can attend the scene and investigate swiftly.' Proposition K supporters celebrate their victory in this months election during a rally Saturday at Ocean Beach in San Francisco. The measure closes a 2-mile stretch of the Great Highway to cars. Jonah Reenders/Special to the Chronicle A protester shows her disapproval for Prop K during the gathering at the Great Highway. Prop K was especially unpopular in the Sunset District, the neighborhood closest to the strip that will be closed to cars. Jonah Reenders/Special to the Chronicle A crowd celebrates the passage of Prop K, which closes a portion of the Great Highway to cars. Rally speakers said they will work with opponents to smooth Prop Ks implementation, but were steadfast in their vision for the park. Jonah Reenders/Special to the Chronicle Adam Egelman and Rachel Clyde celebrate the passage of Prop K, which will close a section of the Great Highway to cars. Jonah Reenders/Special to the Chronicle San Francisco Supervisor Myrna Melgar, fresh off her reelection victory, speaks at the Prop K victory rally. Jonah Reenders/Special to the Chronicle Humans werent the only ones at the Prop K victory rally at Ocean Beach. Jonah Reenders/Special to the Chronicle Supporters of Proposition K held a victory rally Saturday on San Franciscos Great Highway, after the ballot measure to close a 2-mile stretch of that road permanently to cars passed with 54% of the vote. Despite the slim margin, proponents basked in their victory Saturday, expressing confidence that an eventual oceanfront park will sway naysayers and land proponents on the right side of history. This has been a contentious issue, but I am confident that years from now, we will all look back and say, Why was this even controversial? state Sen. Scott Wiener said at the rally. People are going to love this park so much, so lets keep moving forward. Advertisement Article continues below this ad State Sen. Scott Wiener speaks at the Prop K victory rally at Ocean Beach: I am confident that years from now, we will all look back and say, Why was this even controversial? Jonah Reenders/Special to the Chronicle About 100 supporters attended the rally, held at the junction of the Great Highway and Noriega Street, including District 7 Supervisor Myrna Melgar, fresh off her reelection win. Sunny skies matched supporters jubilant mood as a community marching band played pop tunes and children with colorful bike helmets romped in the sand, beside the asphalt expanse proponents hope will soon become a permanent park. Congratulations! You have a new park, Lucas Lux, a Sunset resident and board president of Pro-K group Friends of the Great Highway, told supporters. Go home later, crack open a beer or wine, and feel damn good about yourselves. The couple of dozen protesters who also attended were less than jubilant, holding No on K signs and chanting Share the road behind the lineup of rally speakers. Prop K was especially unpopular in the Sunset, the neighborhood closest to the strip, with at least 60% of voters opposing the measure. Prop K protesters voice their opposition to closing the Great Highway to cars. The measure passed despite resistance in the Sunset District, where at least 60% of voters opposed the measure. Jonah Reenders/Special to the Chronicle Rally speakers said they will work with opponents to smooth Prop Ks implementation, but were steadfast in their vision for the park. Advertisement Article continues below this ad We have neighbors behind us who disagree vociferously on this issue, but theyre still our neighbors, Lux said, urging supporters to be civil. That being said, were gonna go get a Coastal Commission permit, and then were gonna implement the best damn oceanfront park that this world has seen. Though the timeline for a possible oceanfront park is fuzzy, a crucial next step applying for a permit from the commission is already in progress, San Francisco Recreation and Park Department spokesperson Tamara Aparton confirmed. The City is working together to get all necessary approvals to open the Great Highway as a promenade, Aparton said in a statement. We expect the Great Highway to become a full time promenade in early 2025 and include temporary art installations, murals, seating, and events. Lucas Lux, a Sunset resident and board president of Friends of the Great Highway, celebrates Prop Ks victory. Public art commissions are already being planned for opening day of the park envisioned on the strip of the Great Highway, he said. Jonah Reenders/Special to the Chronicle Public art commissions are already being planned for the parks opening day, whenever it comes, Lux said. Those projects, which could be similar to the artwork lining the car-free JFK Promenade in Golden Gate Park, will be funded by grant money and private donations through the nonprofit Friends of Great Highway Park, he said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Longer-term possibilities for more structural changes to the space, like removing the road or adding landscape features, are still up in the air. But the potential for those prospects was enough to fuel optimism at Saturdays rally. This can be something that revolutionizes how we interact with our space, said Seth Rosenblatt, a longtime Sunset resident, adding that the year-round road closures will provide a safe place for his son, now 3, to learn how to ride a bike. It can be a space for art, it can be a space for music, it can be whatever we want it to be. Local musician John Elliott celebrates the Prop K victory in song. Jonah Reenders/Special to the Chronicle Local musician John Elliott channeled that hope with his pro-K original song, Left on Lincoln, a reference to the new route drivers will have to take after the Great Highways closure. This ocean is for everyone, not just for you to drive, so take a left on Lincoln and keep the dream alive, he sang. As an encore, Elliott pivoted to This Land Is Your Land and invited opponents to join in, but they didnt seem to be in a singing mood. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Prop K opponents have yet to concede the issue out of fear the closure will increase commute times for a park they say is unnecessary. If theyre having a victory rally, Im like, wheres the victory coming from? From silencing the community? said Sunset resident Serena Chu, who protested the rally. She added: We might seem upset and disappointed its because our supervisor did not consult with us before putting this on a citywide vote. Prop K supporters celebrate Saturday at Ocean Beach. Proponents of the measure envision a park on the strip of the Great Highway where cars once traveled. Jonah Reenders/Special to the Chronicle District 4 Supervisor Joel Engardio has faced backlash including a possible recall effort from some constituents in his district, where at least 60% of voters opposed Prop K. Engardio did not attend the rally because he was sick, Lux said. I understand and respect the people who voted against Prop K, but Im committed to working with them to address their concerns, Engardio told the Chronicle by phone Saturday evening. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The supervisor said he intends to create an advisory committee with representatives from both pro- and anti-K sides to weigh in on traffic and pedestrian safety improvements as K is implemented. Engardio said he has already reached out to leaders of the No on K campaign, some of whom have been receptive and others who have yet to respond. Engardio criticized efforts to recall him and defended his support for Prop K. Nancy Jodaitis and Glenna Wiseman celebrate at the Prop K victory rally. Jonah Reenders/Special to the Chronicle Im proud to serve District 4 and theres too much divisiveness in San Francisco right now, and recalling an elected official just on a single issue is not helping move our city forward, he said. We have to think beyond ourselves. What were doing on the Great Highway is good for the environment and its something were doing for our children and grandchildren. After the rally, No on K members held their own meeting in a back room at the Tennessee Grill, blocks away on Taraval Street, to lick their wounds and plan their next move. Saudi Arabia has executed more than 100 foreigners this year, according to an AFP tally indicating a sharp increase which one rights group said was unprecedented. The latest execution, on Saturday in the southwestern region of Najran, was of a Yemeni national convicted of smuggling drugs into the Gulf kingdom, the official Saudi Press Agency reported. That brought to 101 the number of foreigners executed so far in 2024, according to the tally which is compiled from state media reports. This is almost triple the figures for 2023 and 2022, when Saudi authorities had put to death 34 foreigners each year, according to AFP tallies. The Berlin-based European-Saudi Organisation for Human Rights (ESOHR) said this year's executions had already broken a record. 'This is the largest number of executions of foreigners in one year. Saudi Arabia has never executed 100 foreigners in a year,' said Taha al-Hajji, the group's legal director. Saudi Arabia has faced persistent criticism over its use of the death penalty, which human rights groups have condemned as excessive and out of step with efforts to soften its forbidding image and welcome international tourists and investors. The oil-rich kingdom executed the third highest number of prisoners in the world after China and Iran in 2023, according to Amnesty International. The execution of a drug dealer in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in 1985 The high number of executions undercuts statements by Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (pictured), who told The Atlantic in 2022 that the kingdom had eliminated the death penalty with the exception of murder cases or when an individual posed a threat to many lives In September, AFP reported that Saudi Arabia had carried out its highest number of executions in more than three decades, surpassing its previous highs of 196 in 2022 and 192 in 1995. Executions have continued at a rapid clip since then and totalled 274 for the year as of Sunday, according to AFP's tally. Foreigners executed this year have included 21 from Pakistan, 20 from Yemen, 14 from Syria, 10 from Nigeria, nine from Egypt, eight from Jordan and seven from Ethiopia. There were also three each from Sudan, India and Afghanistan, and one each from Sri Lanka, Eritrea and the Philippines. Saudi Arabia in 2022 ended a three-year moratorium on the execution of drug offenders, and executions for drug-related crimes have boosted this year's numbers. There have been 92 such executions so far this year, 69 of them of foreigners, according to the AFP tally. Diplomats and activists say that foreign defendants usually face a higher barrier to fair trials, including the right to access court documents. Foreigners 'are the most vulnerable group', said Hajji of the ESOHR. Not only are they often 'victims of major drug dealers' but also 'subjected to a series of violations from the moment of their arrest until their execution,' he said. Saudi Arabia is notorious for beheading those convicted of capital crimes, although official statements tend not to mention the method of execution. The high number of executions undercuts statements by Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who told The Atlantic in 2022 that the kingdom had eliminated the death penalty with the exception of murder cases or when an individual posed a threat to many lives. Jeed Basyouni, who heads Middle East anti-death penalty advocacy for the NGO Reprieve, said persistent drug arrests were 'perpetuating the cycle of violence'. The overall number of executions was on track to exceed 300 for the year, she noted. 'This is an unprecedented execution crisis in Saudi Arabia,' said Basyouni. 'Families of foreign nationals on death row are understandably terrified that their loved one will be next.' The family of a teenager who went missing before her body was found in a lake say they were raided by police multiple times - leaving them feeling as though they were under suspicion over her disappearance. Reagan Brown, 19, disappeared on May 6 after meeting up with a friend at Newcastle's Leazes Park. She had walked behind some bushes to go to the toilet at around 9.30pm as her pal sat on a bench - but never came back. A missing person's investigation was launched and Reagan's body was found two days later in the park's lake. As of yet, nobody has been charged in connection with her death. But her parents, Teena and Frank, have revealed they were immediately placed under suspicion by Northumbria Police in the hours after she vanished. The couple, who have two other children- Shaina, 25, and Tyler, 18 - remain convinced their daughter was attacked in the short time she was behind the bushes. Police, they say, are of the opinion that Reagan's death was a tragic accident and are trying to close the case - a conclusion they are refusing to accept. Teena said today detectives had 'drones following us about' as they began their inquiries, and were investigating on the assumption the 19-year-old was already dead. Reagan Brown, 19, disappeared on a night out with a friend in May - and was found in a lake two days later Her parents, Frank and Teena Brown, say they were placed under suspicion by police during the search for their daughter The lake at Leazes Park in Newcastle, where Reagan's body was ultimately found after she disappeared Northumbria Police said its investigation into Reagan's death is continuing (pictured: Reagan Brown) She told The Sun: 'I actually said "oh my God, you're looking for a body". They were saying "we've got to". And I get thatthey suspect the family first.' Frank further claimed to the paper an officer told him his 'hands were tied' when he quizzed the conclusion that Reagan's death was an accident. 'What does that mean? Your hands are tied - you're the police,' he said. The family further claims police had let them down throughout the investigation - from sharing a post about the discovery of a body in the lake on social media before notifying them to not returning Reagan's personal belongings. Teena and Frank also had to contend with an online troll who shared images of the teen's coffin while mocking her. The pair claim no action was taken despite the individual being reported to police. They also claim they were discouraged from sharing their own appeals to find Reagan on social media - something they now regret. As is, the family are still at a loss as to how their daughter came to die after she had hatched plans to travel to Australia, and to save up to buy a horse. Teena said: 'I feel like they (the police) are trying to close the case, but were arguing how can you do that when we have so many unanswered questions. I truly believe witnesses will come forward.' The family is encouraging anyone with any information to contact them directly at justice4reagan@mail.com to help uncover what happened to their daughter. Teena said last week: 'We've been so let down, we feel like Reagan has just become a case number. It's been six months and they're not any closer to knowing what has happened.' A Northumbria Police spokesman said: 'Our thoughts remain firmly with the family and friends of Reagan Brown following her tragic death in May 2024. 'We are carrying out a full investigation into Reagan's death, which remains ongoing. 'As part of our enquiries two people in their 20s were arrested and are currently released under investigation. 'One was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class B drugs and the second on suspicion of threats to kill.' MailOnline has contacted the force for further comment. The former Tory MP Jacob Rees-Mogg says his son Peter was sent hate mail at Eton College - as he and his family prepare to open up their opulent home to a Kardashian-style documentary crew. The 'Honourable Member for the 18th Century', as he has been nicknamed, has often found himself the target of vitriol for his anachronistic lifestyle, from lounging across the Commons benches to admitting he has never changed his children's nappies. But the ex-North East Somerset representative, 55, who openly admits he enjoys 'winding people up', was surprised when one of his sons received hate mail targeting him via Eton College. Earlier this year, Rees-Mogg told Matt Forde's Political Party Podcast how son Peter - middle names Theodore Alphege - received hate mail slating his father after he lost his seat of 14 years in the general election. 'I think to send a piece of hate mail to a 16-year-old because you don't like his father is an awful thing to do and just fundamentally nasty,' he said. 'It is not my son's fault that I have the political views that I do and it is cowardly, because if you don't agree with me then you should get in touch with me - put your name on the bottom of it. But to write to a 16-year-old is just loathsome.' Rees-Mogg has now revealed that he did not pass the hate mail to the police because, he felt, no action would be taken. He said in a new interview published today: 'The hate mail did make me think about how aggressive the modern world is to children of politicians.' It comes at the end of a rough year for the 55-year-old, whose investment firm Somerset Capital was wound up at the end of 2023 after losing its main client, the financial advice firm St James' Place. Jacob Rees-Mogg with his son Peter in 2019. The former Tory MP has described how his son received hate mail after he lost his North East Somerset seat in the general election Rees-Mogg with children Thomas, Mary and Peter, and wife Helena de Chair, as he is made a Knight Commander of the British Empire in 2023 Jacob Rees-Mogg and wife Helena in a promotional picture for Meet the Rees-Moggs, which airs on Discovery+ next month The documentary will depict all aspects of Rees-Mogg's political life, including when he encounters those who disagree with him (pictured: a confrontation with disability campaigner Dominic Hutchins in October 2021) The Tory MP is reported to have pocketed at least 7.5m in dividends from the firm since the EU referendum, and received 15,000 a month from the company until 2019, when he became a minister in Boris Johnson's government. However, he is now set to embark upon an unlikely new career that began with his appointment as a presenter on GB News last year: Jacob Rees-Mogg is set to become a television superstar. Along with wife Helena and children Peter, Mary, Thomas, Anselm, Alfred and Sixtus, Rees-Mogg has welcomed the documentary crew behind At Home with the Furys - about boxer Tyson - into his life to show people what he is like behind closed doors. Meet the Rees-Moggs, as the Discovery+ show is called, aims to dispel some of the ideas the public has likely built up about the veteran MP over the years based on his love of arcane English and the comparisons to the Beano's Lord Snooty. The Beano sent a tongue-in-cheek cease and desist letter to the MP in 2018 asking him to stop impersonating Walter, Dennis the Menace's bespectacled nemesis, because of his 'insistence to remind others of his father's successful career'. There are hopes it could show another side to Rees-Mogg, a career investor who opened a Coutts bank account at 13 and campaigned in a safe Labour seat in Scotland by driving around in a Bentley accompanied by his nanny. (He later insisted it was in fact a Mercedes - the Bentley stayed at home.) It will depict a period of family life before the election, followed by his defeat to Labour's Dan Norris - whom he beat in 2010. Rees-Mogg hopes to make a comeback in future. And, as he has detailed to The Times - the paper his father, William, was once editor for - the programme has helped to top-up his income. Rees-Mogg became infamous for his lounging on the Commons benches in 2019. He now admits he enjoys 'winding people up' Jacob Rees-Mogg, son Peter and wife Helena arrive for the election count on July 5. He would go on to lose the seat Rees-Mogg lost his seat after 14 years to Labour's Dan Norris. The Monster Raving Loony Party's candidate, Barmy Brunch (pictured right), did not win either Rees-Mogg told The Times he hoped the new documentary series would show how his family is much the same as any other The show has been produced by the same filming team behind Netflix's At Home with the Furys, about boxer Tyson Fury and his family Rees-Mogg got his start in investment banking before pursuing a career in politics (file image from around the year 2000) After all, the Rees-Moggs need to maintain the Somerset country house of Gournay Court, alongside a London home, as well as the salaries of five domestic staff and six lots of school fees. Very soon, as the interview published today glibly notes, the Rees-Moggs could well be down to their last million. And while Peter received unsavoury mail at Eton before the documentary was announced, Jacob - who was knighted last year - says the filming was done with the entire family's consent and participation. He told the paper today of the decision to do the programme: 'If the children had up to now been anonymous then, of course, I would have thought very hard and probably would not have gone ahead. 'As it was, the surname Rees-Mogg is enough to draw attention to them. Like it or not, they are already recognised.' The series also depicts other incidents in which the Rees-Moggs are targeted - from being called a 'w*****' in the streets of London to having 'scum' written on the side of their Land Rover. Rees-Mogg, who has been accused of using his public image to soften his hard-and-fast opposition to abortion, same-sex marriage and action on the environment, has hopes the show might even elicit a sympathetic response from those who have a less than positive view of him. 'When they find out that what goes on behind the walls of Gournay Court is not so different to their own home, they may pause for thought,' he said. That said, he still thinks his cut glass accent and investment fortune has less in common with Britain's upper classes than people might think. He said earlier this year as the programme was announced: 'This everyday story of Somerset folk is fun to film but may be a bit more Fawlty Towers than Downton Abbey.' Police forces should not be acting as 'thought' police and must focus on investigating 'genuine' crimes, senior Tories said today. Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, warned that officers 'should not be wasting time and resources' by 'policing thought'. They should instead be 'concentrating on criminality' the Croydon South MP added, as he waded into a row over police visiting a journalist's home over a year-old tweet. Allison Pearson said officers visited her last Sunday and told her she is being probed for alleged incitement of racial hatred over a post that has since been deleted. The Telegraph columnist said she initially thought she heard the policemen at her door say they were investigating a 'non-crime hate incident'. But Essex Police dispute this and said the officers were clear the alleged offence was inciting racial hatred, following a complaint by a member of the public. Former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith said the incident involving Ms Pearson 'looks to me like a complete absurdity'. Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, warned that officers 'should not be wasting time and resources' by 'policing thought' Former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith said the incident involving journalist Allison Pearson 'looks to me like a complete absurdity' The Telegraph columnist said she initially thought she heard the policemen at her door say they were investigating a 'non-crime hate incident'. But Essex Police dispute this Referencing his efforts to get police to crackdown on shoplifting in his Chingford and Woodford Green constituency, Sir Iain told LBC: 'That's where we want the police. 'What I don't want the police to do is to go and investigate something that happened a year or so ago that was a comment from a journalist. 'This is kind of thought police territory and whatever else happens, that's got to stop. 'Let's get the police to do the one thing that every member of the public wants them to do - get after anti-social behaviour and violence and threats.' Kemi Badenoch, the current Tory leader, has called for a review of non-crime hate incidents in the wake of the row involving Ms Pearson. Mr Philp served as policing minister during the final two years of the previous Conservative government and defended his record over the issue. 'It did concern me,' he told Sky News. 'And I did do something because the police should not be acting as the thought police. 'Particularly in relation to journalists, but actually more widely as well. Free speech is very important. 'We have a criminal threshold and the police should only get involved where that criminal threshold is met. 'If they're looking at non-criminal incidents, that should be extremely rare and it should only happen where there is a real risk of imminent criminality, that's a very high threshold. 'So I was concerned and I did take action together with the then home secretary, which was to restrict the circumstances in which the police could record people's personal details for these so-called non crime hate incidents and I had intended to go further but for the election.' Mr Philp slammed recent reports that Yvette Cooper, Labour's Home Secretary, will reverse the changes made by the Tories over non-crime hate incidents. It was reported earlier this year how Ms Cooper will undo the Conservatives' decision to downgrade the monitoring of non-crime hate incidents - specifically in relation to anti-Jewish and anti-Muslim hate - so they can be logged by police. The Home Secretary has previously warned of a 'disturbing rise' in anti-Semitism and Islamophobia in the wake of the Hamas terror attacks on Israel on 7 October. Changes to the recording of non-crime hate incidents were introduced last year by former home secretary Suella Braverman to free up police time. She oversaw the issuing of new guidance to ensure officers prioritise freedom of expression and stop recording incidents simply because someone is offended. Mr Philp added: 'Of course things like anti-Semitism and other forms of hatred are recorded by all kinds of organisations. 'The police should only be recording this kind of information which falls below the criminal threshold, if there is a real and imminent risk of criminality following. 'Because for a start, if someone gets a deep - a full criminal record check done, that will get disclosed. 'And there are some cases has been reported this week by The Times, for example, where nine year old children were getting their details recorded as non-crime hate incidents for things happening in playgrounds. 'A Telegraph journalist, a different Telegraph journalist said they were investigated for making comments on the trans debate. 'Now, that is - that is wrong. People should have the right to free speech and the police should not be policing thought.' Mr Philp later told GB News: 'It is ridiculous that public figures, journalists, but actually members of the public as well are getting police attention for essentially expressing opinions. 'The police should concentrate on crime, genuine crime, not on policing thought. 'If they are going to pay attention to anything that doesn't meet the criminal threshold, that should be an extremely high bar. 'It should be behaviour which is very likely to lead to imminent criminality, but they should not be policing thought.' In a statement issued on Wednesday, Essex Police said: 'Officers attended an address in Essex and invited a woman to come to a voluntary interview. 'They said it related to an investigation into an alleged offence of inciting racial hatred, linked to a post on social media. 'We police without fear or favour and that's why we respond to alleged offences which are reported to us by members of the public. 'For clarity: a complaint of a possible criminal offence was made to the police and this is why we called; to arrange an interview. 'Everyone was polite and professional throughout the brief conversation.' In an update published yesterday, the force added: 'Essex Police supports free speech. 'It does not support inaccuracy. If an alleged crime is reported it is investigated. There is no public interest in falsehood.' Yvette Coopers immigration strategy is based on a lie. A powerful lie, a comforting lie, a lie that she may well have come to believe herself. But a lie none the less. The lie is that we can halt illegal immigration by smashing the gangs. This delusion allows the Home Secretary to continue to think of the immigrants themselves as pitiable and deserving. (She once offered to house one herself, though, nine years on, we are still waiting.) All her anger can then be directed at the people traffickers. Now the people traffickers are indeed an ugly lot, profiting from an illicit trade in human cargo. But they do not create the demand. They service it. Yesterday, we learned that the Government proposes to sign co-operation and security deals with a number of governments, including Kurdistan in Iraq and Vietnam. But however much we pay the Kurdish or Vietnamese authorities to go after gangsters, the demand will remain. The young men boarding dinghies in Calais are not helpless victims. They have paid around 10,000 to be smuggled into Britain, calculating that a couple of years of black-market work here will more that recoup that investment. The way to halt the flow is to change their incentives. And the way to do that is to show that they will not be allowed to remain in Britain. The reason so many people are determined to reach the UK, rather than ending their journey in one of the safe and prosperous states through which they pass, is that they know they wont be deported. 'Yvette Cooper s immigration strategy is based on a lie. A powerful lie, a comforting lie, a lie that she may well have come to believe herself. But a lie none the less' 'The young men boarding dinghies in Calais are not helpless victims. They have paid around 10,000 to be smuggled into Britain, calculating that a couple of years of black-market work here will more that recoup that investment' Contrary to widespread belief, we do not offer more generous benefits than others. The draw is that, once you arrive, you can stay. In the unlikely event that the authorities catch up with you and order you to leave, you can ask one of our immigration lawyers to bring a challenge under human rights legislation. Our judges hate deportation orders. This newspaper reported recently on an illegal immigrant who had been convicted of child abuse and ordered to leave, but overturned the decision on grounds that (Im not making this up) his removal would harm his relationship with his children. Nor should we fall for the second immigration lie, the notion that we could staunch the flow of people if only we raised living standards in their countries of origin, a strategy that appears to be part of the overnments new approach. In fact, rising wealth in these countries is fuelling the migration. The spread of iPhones, for example, allows people to transfer information and credit, enabling journeys that their grandparents could not have contemplated. If Vietnam or Kurdistan eventually came to equal our living standards, numbers might dry up. But, while they are in the process of getting there, numbers will rise. We cant stop people coming here and, once they arrive, we cant remove them. Until we tackle that problem, which was what the Rwanda scheme was designed to do, we wont halt the cross-Channel flow. Subsidising faraway countries is a gimmick. Yes, the Italian government, led by Giorgia Meloni, has reduced the number of illegal Mediterranean crossings by paying Tunisia and Libya to crack down on small boats. 'The Italian government, led by Giorgia Meloni, has reduced the number of illegal Mediterranean crossings by paying Tunisia and Libya to crack down on small boats.' Pictured with Sir Keir Starmer in September But Tunisia and Libya are glad to take people back in exchange for this assistance. France is not. Indeed, given that both France and Italy are largely under EU jurisdiction when it comes to immigration, the ability of Brussels to have it both ways is remarkable. When boats head towards the EU, it interprets the law as meaning that it can turn them around. But not so when boats leave the EU. As the former director general of the border force, Tony Smith, puts it: EU policy on maritime interventions is at best inconsistent, and at worst disingenuous. The plain fact is that the EU should stop pretending that maritime interdiction and returns of UK-bound migrant boats to France is not an option. Quite. But since that is not going to happen, Labour is trapped by precisely the same logic as the Tories. If we cant return illegal immigrants to France (because it refuses to take them), and we cant deport them to their countries of origin (because they have destroyed any evidence of where they are from) we are left with only two alternatives. Either we let them remain in Britain or we send them to a safe third country. That was the logic that led to the Rwanda plan, the very rumour of which, even before it came into effect, was reducing the number of illegal crossings and even prompting some illegals already in the UK to leave. Labour, in a fit of virtue signalling, cancelled the Rwanda scheme on taking office. Ironically, the rest of the world is now looking at adopting similar schemes. Several EU states are exploring Rwanda-style options. Donald Trump is looking specifically at Rwanda. All of which will push even more sans-papiers our way. The French will continue to escort dinghies to the median line, we will continue to provide a taxi service to Kent, and numbers will rise. What was it Starmer used to say about restoring trust in politics? Lord Hannan is president of the Institute for Free Trade A failed Republican House and Senate candidate from Arizona is 'begging' to be the next Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Director, sources familiar with the selection process told DailyMail.com. Blake Masters has spoken to many close with the transition team and even has Donald Trump's Attorney General pick Matt Gaetz lobbying for his appointment to the agency that falls under the Department of Justice. Masters initially wanted the White House personnel position, a person close to transition efforts claims. But the role was filled by Sergio Gor. Meanwhile, a former Trump campaign staffer explained how Masters is going for a 'weaker' position each time one gets filled and is 'making the rounds' to try and get a role in the next administration. 'Truth hurts: The boss doesn't like losers,' the staffer told DailyMail.com of the man who in the last few years lost his bid for the U.S. House and Senate. Another source says that if Masters can 'make amends put his ego aside, and lay out a vision to make the country better, I think they'll be able to find a place for him' in the Trump administration. 'Maybe in the end they give him some sort of job as a consolation prize,' they added. Mar-a-Lago has essentially turned into the set of The Apprentice as several dozen Republicans jockey for Trump to appoint them to a role in his incoming administration. Blake Masters is 'begging' for a role in Donald Trump's administration and most recently has lobbied to be ATF Director, according to three sources familiar with the matter Masters has spoken with Trump's Attorney General pick Matt Gaetz to try and get him to push him to be the next ATF Director And those familiar with the efforts say that Masters spoke with Gaetz directly about trying to convince Trump to name him ATF Director. Gaetz, who stepped down from Congress hours after Trump's announced him as his pick to lead the DOJ on Wednesday, has advocated for the abolishment of the ATF, which is the domestic law enforcement agency that oversees federal issues related to firearms, explosives, bombs, alcohol and tobacco. Even before the election on November 5, Masters was gunning to be the ATF boss and was expressing to Trump allies his interest in the top role within the DOJ, according to those familiar with the conversations. But Masters is a controversial figure within Republican circles after he divided the party during his bitter primary race against Arizona Representative-elect Abraham Hamadeh. In October 2023, Sen. J.D. Vance, who is now the vice president-elect, endorsed Masters in his House race. Just two months later in December, Trump put his backing behind Abe Hamadeh. Hamadeh won his primary race against Masters in this summer by 4.2 percent and went on to win the general election. He will be sworn into his congressional seat in January. Before the election in July, Trump announced that Vance would be his running mate in the 2024 presidential campaign which put those at the top of the ticket at odds in the Arizona race. A few years before the 2024 primary that he lost to Hamadeh, Masters also appeared as a political candidate in April 2021 in challenging incumbent Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly for his Arizona Senate seat. Conservative tech giant Peter Thiel, who is a massive conservative donor and the founder of PayPal, spent approximately $13.5 million trying to get Masters elected to the U.S. Senate in 2022. Masters lost by about 4.9 percent to Sen. Kelly. Vance's backing of Masters in the 2024 primary likely came from his loyalty to Thiel. The VP-elect worked in the tech industry as a venture capitalist after spending two years as an attorney and during that time in San Francisco in 2017 and 2018 he served as a principal at Thiel's firm Mithril Capital. Trump endorsed Representative-elect Abe Hamadeh in his primary race against Masters, but two years prior he had backed Masters when he was running for Arizona's Senate seat. Pictured: Trump and Masters shake hands at a rally in Mesa, Arizona on October 9, 2022 during Masters' run for Senate Republicans see Masters as valuable when it comes to the tech world and his connections to investors. Some are worried it won't translate to a government role. Even if Masters did get the ATF position, it's unclear what role that would play in the next White House as Gaetz has previously advocated for the abolishment of the agency. In 2021, Gaetz, then a U.S. representative, filed legislation to get rid of the federal government's gun regulatory agency and spend the money saved on victims of the agency's 'gun-walking' program. Those close with the transition and familiar with Trump's selection process say that Marine veteran Derek Herrera, who was paralyzed from the chest down by a sniper's bullet in Afghanistan and now works to advance medical technology, is a top contender for the role of ATF director. A man whose family was killed in a house fire caused by a faulty tumble dryer has urged others to check their machines for potential dangers. Pavan Bhatt lost his grandmother Champagauri, 86, and uncle Dipak, 66, in March last year after a an electrical fault within the Hotpoint machine sparked a devastating blaze inside their north London home. The 30-year-old, who was also left homeless following the inferno, was returning from work when a panicked neighbour called to say his home was on fire. Pavan raced back as quick as he could and found find the house ablaze, with emergency services already on the scene. Champagauri, a wheelchair user who was registered blind, and Dipak, who had suffered brain damage and was non-verbal, were thought to have been asleep when the fire started and had inhaled a lethal amount of smoke. After being rushed to hospital, Pavan's grandmother tragically passed away just two days after the fire, while his uncle died less than three weeks later on April 18. At an inquest into their deaths, the coroner ruled the blaze had been caused by an electrical fault that most likely occurred inside the dryer's pump, before spreading to the cupboards above and eventually engulfing most of the house. In the wake of the tragic incident, Pavan is urging other families to research their home appliances before making a purchase and failing to do so 'could be like bringing a bomb into your home'. Pavan Bhatt lost his grandmother and uncle in March last year after an electrical fault within a Hotpoint tumble dryer sparked a devastating blaze inside their north London home (pictured) Champagauri Bhatt, 86, and her son Dipak Bhatt, 66, (pictured together) tragically lost their lives when a blaze broke out at their home in Edgware, north London on March 29 last year Pavan told The Sunday Times: 'When someone buys a tumble dryer, they're not buying it thinking, 'I've just put a potential bomb in my house'. 'I fear it will not be long before another family experiences the pain and grief [I] have had to endure.' He has urged people to research devices they purchase by looking into the company and its history 'in order to ensure the safety of yourself and your family'. Pavan is also calling on Whirlpool, which is owns the European division of the Hotpoint brand, to recall the model that caused the fire at his home. More than five million dryers under Whirlpool's Hotpoint, Creda and Indesit labels had a design fault that caused at least 750 household fires between 2004 and 2015. A fire that killed two people inside a flat in Llanrwst, North Wales, in October 2014 was likely caused by a faulty Hotpoint tumble dryer, a coroner ruled at the time. London Fire brigade said a blaze in Shepherd's Bush in an 18-storey building in August 2016 which took 120 firefighters to get under control was caused by a faulty Indesit tumble dryer. In September 2018, mother Jemma Spurr, had just returned home from the school run, when she noticed a burning smell while the machine was on in her garage. She quickly fled her home with her three children, including her then eight-month-old daughter Amber, who was napping in her cot. Luckily, they all managed to escape with their lives. Pavan is also calling on Whirlpool, which is owns the European division of the Hotpoint brand, to recall the model that caused the fire at his home (File image) In 2019, following public outcry, Whirlpool confirmed that some of its Hotpoint and Indesit models needed to be recalled. Vice President of Whirlpool Jeff Noel said at the time: 'I want to apologise sincerely for the worry and inconvenience I know this will cause, especially during these difficult times. 'I'd also like to reassure you that we are working as quickly as we can to provide solutions to affected customers as soon as possible. 'Nothing is more important to us than the safety of our customers, and working quickly to remove the affected appliances from customers' homes is our number one priority.' The coroner looking into Pavan's family's deaths has said he will be releasing a Prevention of Future Deaths report calling for the risk assessment process for tumble dryer manufacturers to be reviewed. He added that Whirlpool should provide all relevant data about certain mechanical faults to HM Coroner and the Office of Product Safety and Standards, so they can fully establish the cause of the fire. Meanwhile, Pavan is considering launching a civil claim for compensation against Whirlpool himself. He was made temporarily homeless while his house was renovated, a cost which he has been forced to cover as the property was uninsured. He now lives at the house with his partner Ambar Choudhry, 28. In 2019, following public outcry, Whirlpool confirmed that some of its Hotpoint and Indesit models needed to be recalled. Pictured: Vice President of Whirlpool Jeff Noel Whirlpool told The Sunday Times that the safety of its products was its 'top priority' and extended its 'deepest sympathies to the Bhatt family', The company added: 'We are actively reviewing the coroner's conclusions in detail and will remain in constant dialogue with the regulatory authorities.' The inquest earlier this year heard from three forensic experts, each selected by Whirlpool, Bhatt and LFB. The investigator chosen by Whirlpool suggested there could have been an 'external' cause to the fire - possibly a cigarette butt, seeing as Pavan's uncle was allowed to smoke two cigarettes a day, while supervised. The other two believed it was caused by a machine fault, with one saying it was an issue with the dryers pump, while the other said it was down to an electrical fault at the door switch of the tumble-dryer. Leigh Day partner Thomas Jervis, who represented Pavan at the inquest, said: 'The Whirlpool Hotpoint tumble dryer that caused this tragic fire and cost my client the lives of two of his closest relatives, was purchased brand new just six months earlier.' 'It is plain to see that, despite Whirlpool's previous track record of fires being caused by its faulty appliances, the company has failed to learn vital lessons around fire safety in relation to its products. 'It is time the company took greater responsibility for the safety of its customers and recalled this particular model of tumble dryer as well as any others where there may be safety concerns. 'This is not the first time I have represented families at inquests into deaths caused by fires involving Whirlpool Hotpoint appliances. If urgent action is not taken, I fear it may not be the last.' MailOnline has contacted Whirlpool for comment. Pop star Charli XCX called out Martha Stewart's clash with a New York Post reporter during her Saturday Night Live monologue. The 32-year-old queen of 'brat summer' has not let the term die in the autumn, laying into Stewart for gloating about the 'death' of the journalist who covered her 2004 trial. Charli XCX also dubbed the reporter, Andrea Peyser - who is, in fact, alive - 'brat' for her bold response to the controversial cooking show host's remarks. She said while hosting Saturday night's show: 'I have to say, brat summer has been a crazy experience. So many people have asked me, 'What is brat?' And honestly, it's just, like, an attitude. It's a vibe. 'For example, the new Martha Stewart documentary. When Martha gets mad about an old magazine article and she says that she's glad the journalist who wrote it is dead - that is brat,' she admitted, before handing the journalist the last laugh. 'And then last Friday, when that exact journalist responded and said "Hey! I'm alive b**ch!" that is extremely brat.' A Netflix documentary about the 83-year-old homemaker and business woman aired on October 30, delving into her upbringing, marriage and the time she spent in prison. Stewart reflected on the negative media attention she endured at the time of her 2004 trial for securities fraud and obstruction of justice. During her Saturday Night Live monologue, Charlie XCX used Martha Stewart's feud with journalist Andrea Peyser to define 'brat' Martha Stewart pictured at the 2024 WWD Honors. The business woman was called out by Charlie XCX for falsely claiming a reporter was dead She said: 'New York Post lady was there just looking so smug. She had written horrible things during the entire trial. 'Shes dead now, thank goodness, and nobody has to put up with that crap she was writing all the time.' But on November 7, Peyser took the opportunity to share her side of the story and come forward as the 'horrible' and 'dead' reporter. She wrote: 'I'm alive b**ch! Even if the Domestic Dominatrix thinks she's finished me off. 'Its been 20 years since Martha Stewart traded her Manolo stilettos for ballet flats, her 1,000-thread-count Egyptian cotton bedsheets for a lumpy, polyester blend-covered bunk bed the bottom half, she moaned as she became the most fabulous and furious inmate ever to grace Club Fed. 'Two decades later, she's still fantasizing about (plotting?) my grisly demise.' Peyser went on to grill the cookbook author's finances, claiming she went from being a billionaire to a 'mere millionaire.' 'Shes rich. Shes beautiful, creative and temperamental. I pity her,' Peyser ended off her article. Journalist Andrea Peyser addressed Martha in an article and declared, 'Im alive, b**ch!' In her Netflix documentary, Martha Stewart claimed that a New York Post reporter who wrote 'horrible' things about her was now dead, even though she is alive Martha pictured leaving federal court after a hearing in June 2003 in New York City. She was locked up for five months before being sentenced to solidary confinement in her home Stewart was found guilty on counts of conspiracy and obstruction and two counts of making false statements in March 2004 after the six-week trial. She was locked up in October that same year, before being released in March 2005 and spent a further five months in home confinement. On social media, SNL fans have shared their reaction to Charlie XCX's dig at Stewart's mix up. One X user wrote: 'Charli XCX bringing the drama with Martha Stewart's feud on SNL.' 'Charli XCXs sense of humor shines through in her "SNL" monologue! Shes got the perfect mix of wit and charm to keep things fun and lively,' another said, applauding the act. Labour is ready to pay governments in Vietnam, Kurdistan and Turkey to help stop the flow of illegal migrants to Britain, Sir Keir Starmer said today. The Prime Minister said he was prepared to look at 'anything' that would help slow the wave of migrants crossing the Channel illegally. He declined to comment directly on reports the Government is in advanced talks with administrations in Kurdistan and Vietnam over deals in which Britain would pay them to help stop migrants heading for the UK. But Sir Keir indicated he was not against the principle of paying third countries to help tackle the Channel migrant crisis. 'Anything else we can do to stop people leaving in the first place is the right thing,' he said. Sir Keir's comments risk charges of hypocrisy, given his decision to scrap the previous Tory government's Rwanda scheme in his first week in office. But Government sources said any deals with third countries to deal with migration would be on a much smaller scale than Rwanda. Sir Keir Starmer works on board a Government plane as he travels to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to attend the G20 summit A group of people are pictured in a small boat off the beach of Gravelines, near Dunkirk, northern France, in April this year Labour's proposal is modelled on financial deals struck by Italy with countries like Libya and Tunisia. Sir Keir discussed the schemes with Italian PM Giorgia Meloni in September in Rome The last government planned to deport Channel migrants directly to the African state, from where they would have no right to come to the UK. The move was seen as a vital deterrent to break the business model of the smuggling gangs. Labour's proposal is modelled on financial deals struck by Italy with countries like Libya and Tunisia, which have proved effective in slowing the number of migrants crossing the Mediterranean. Sir Keir discussed the schemes with Italian PM Giorgia Meloni in September during talks in Rome. He is also examining Italy's deal with Albania, which could see illegal arrivals in Italy sent to the Balkans country for processing. In a crucial difference with the Rwanda scheme, those whose asylum claims are successful would then be allowed to travel to Italy legally. Only those whose claims were refused would face deportation. Government sources said Sir Keir and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper remained opposed to a direct replacement for the Rwanda deal. Sir Keir said his main focus remained on 'smashing' the people-smuggling gangs and deporting those with no right to be here where they can safely be sent home. 'I don't think this is an area where we should just do one thing,' he said. 'We have got to do everything that we can. 'I am absolutely clear in my mind that taking down the gangs is the single most effective way of stopping the boats going across the Channel. 'People are making a huge amount of money for the journeys people are making across obviously several countries to the north coast of France. 'Intercepting and taking those gangs down is hugely important and it will be one of the biggest disincentives if we can break the gangs that are running these. 'I have never accepted that these gangs can't be taken down. I know I have said this many times but I have worked for five years as chief prosecutor when we took down terrorist gangs, we took down people who were moving guns and drugs and people across borders.' An eleven-year-old boy has died four days after being hit by a car while on his way home from school. The boy, who hasn't been named, was walking outside King's School in Chester when he collided with a Nissan Qashqai at around 5.12pm on Tuesday November 12. He was rushed to Alder Hey hospital in Liverpool, more than 20 miles away from the scene. The boy was treated for serious injuries but died on Saturday morning, Cheshire Police said. The driver of the car, a 28-year-old woman from Wrexham, was uninjured and no arrests have been, the force added. Police are renewing their appeal for anyone who may have witnessed the collision or caught it on dashcam or CCTV footage. Cheshire Police said the boy's family are being supported by specialist officers. Sergeant Russell Sime, of the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: 'We understand that this was a distressing incident, and our thoughts remain with the victim's family at this difficult time.' An eleven-year-old boy has died four days after being hit by a car while walking outside King's School in Chester (pictured) He was rushed to Alder Hey hospital in Liverpool (pictured), more than 20 miles away from the scene of the collision. The boy was treated for serious injuries but died on Saturday morning He continued: 'As part of our ongoing enquiries we are asking for anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or has any information about it, to get in touch. 'The same goes for anyone who may have captured the incident on dashcam or on CCTV.' Anyone with any information or CCTV or dashcam footage is asked to contact Cheshire Police via 101 or online, quoting IML-1961446. An inquest is due to be held after a post mortem examination. San Francisco firefighters battle a blaze at an encampment at South Van Ness Avenue and 13th Street. San Francisco Fire Department San Francisco firefighters battle a blaze at an encampment at South Van Ness Avenue and 13th Street. San Francisco firefighters battle a blaze at an encampment at South Van Ness Avenue and 13th Street. San Francisco firefighters extinguished a large encampment fire in the South of Market district Saturday afternoon. Firefighters put out the blaze, located at the Highway 101 on-ramp at South Van Ness Avenue and 13th Street, by about 1:30 p.m., roughly an hour after it was reported. The fire was prevented from spreading to adjacent buildings, though a few cars stored at the encampment site were damaged, the San Francisco Fire Department said. The cause was not determined, though multiple hazards, including exploding propane tanks, were present at the campsite, according to the fire department. The on-ramp to Interstate 80 at South Van Ness was closed until about 2 p.m. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Do you know more? Email emily.davies@mailonline.co.uk Police have launched an international manhunt for the husband of a young woman whose body was found in a car boot almost 100 miles from her home. Officers set up a murder probe after Harshita Brella, 24, from Corby in Northamptonshire, was discovered in the back of a vehicle in Ilford, east London. Northamptonshire Police had said they believed she was killed by someone who was 'known to her' - and they this afternoon named her husband Pankaj Lamba as a suspect, saying they believed he had fled the country and issuing two photos of him. The probe follows alarms being raised last Wednesday when the police received a call regarding concerns over Harshita's welfare. Officers were sent round to her home address in Corby, but received no answer at the door. A missing person investigation was launched and after enquiries were fast-tracked she was found in Ilford on Thursday - some 95.7 miles away from the shared house she lived in. Officers appealed for anyone with information to get in touch as soon as possible - while the force is also putting in place extra patrols around Corby. And this afternoon, the force's Chief Inspector Paul Cash said in a statement: 'We have followed a number of lines of investigation and carried out numerous inquiries and we are now able to provide a further update. Do you know more? Email emily.davies@mailonline.co.uk Harshita Brella was reported missing on November 13 by the authorities after Northamptonshire Police conducted a welfare check at her home in Corby and got no answer Northamptonshire Police this afternoon named her husband Pankaj Lamba as a suspect Harshita's body was found 94 miles from her home in Northamptonshire 'Our inquiries lead us to suspect that Harshita was murdered in Northamptonshire earlier this month by her husband Pankaj Lamba. 'We suspect Lamba transported Harshita's body from Northamptonshire to Ilford by car. We believe he has now fled the country. 'More than 60 detectives are working on the case and are continuing to follow numerous lines of inquiry, including house to house, property searches, CCTV and ANPR. 'We are of course continuing to appeal for any information that will help us piece together exactly what happened as we work to get justice for Harshita.' Forensic officers in protective wear were this morning seen visiting her home in Corby while uniformed police guarded the property. The Chief Inspector said of the victim: 'On behalf of Northamptonshire Police, I would like to express my deepest and heartfelt condolences to Harshita's family and friends, and to everyone who knew and loved her. 'Harshita was a young woman in her early 20s, with her whole life ahead of her and everything to live for, and it is absolutely tragic that her life has been cut short in this way.' Meanwhile, one local in Ilford told MailOnline: 'They seemed to be focusing on a car. It's horrific. It's quite an unsafe area. That poor woman must have gone through hell. It's deeply shocking. I've felt sick. She must have gone through so much pain.' Forensic officers were today pictured at 24-year-old Harshita Brella's Corby property after the discovery of her body in the back of a car almost 100 miles away in Ilford, east London Officers are seen on Sunday morning at murder victim Harshita Brella's Corby home Police were pictured at her cordoned-off property in Corby, Northamptonshire, on Sunday They continued: 'Officers swarmed all over the street and were here for hours. It looked incredibly serious. 'There was screaming on the street earlier in the week. It's rough around here so I didn't bat an eyelid. There's always drug dealing and attacks and all sorts.' A forensic postmortem examination, which took place at Leicester Royal Infirmary on Friday, confirmed that Harshita had been murdered. A neighbour at Harshita's home in Corby told the Northampton Chronicle that the house the young woman lived in had been used as an HMO (house in multiple occupation), and at one point last year had 12 people living in it. The number of occupants has since reduced and the neighbour said she believed that the house had Bulgarian, Moldovan and Portuguese residents. The property had been largely peaceful since some noise complaints were resolved last year, the neighbour added. But she said that earlier this week she heard a commotion, adding: 'The way that gate slammed I knew something had happened. Someone took off quickly. 'I had heard banging coming from the house and then they obviously just legged it. The police have been here about four days.' Single mother Kelly Philp, who lives next door, told The Mirror she heard a heated argument between a man and a woman the same day that there were concerns raised for Harshita's welfare. The 41-year-old, who shares a wall with the house, said she heard 'banging around' and an argument in another language that she couldn't understand. As officers guarded Harshita Brella's home in Corby, Northamptonshire Police said extra patrols would be put on in the area to help reassure residents Forensic officers were seen visiting Harshita Brella's Corby home on Sunday morning Brisbane Road in Ilford, east London. A forensic postmortem examination, which took place at Leicester Royal Infirmary on Friday, confirmed that Harshita had been murdered Police cordoned off the scene where Harshita Brella's body was then found in the back of a vehicle in Ilford, east London - almost 100 miles away from her Northamptonshire home A murder investigation is ongoing after the 24-year-old's body was found in a car boot near the entrance of Valentines Park in Ilford, East London A general view of Skegness Walk in Corby where Harshita Brella lived in a house share She said the woman 'sounded scared' and the next morning heard two men arguing again. Ms Philp said she feels 'so sad about the loss of the lass' and 'can't believe it'. Forensic officers spent hours at the scene of the car, only removing a tent there on Friday. And police have been asking locals whether they had seen any suspicious activity in the area - especially relating to men. One person, who asked not to be named, said: 'It's a mystery how she ended up here - the poor woman. 'Officers asked me if I'd seen anything suspicious - they basically asked if any dodgy men had been in the area. 'They seem to suggest they know who did it. They seemed to want to know about men in particular.' Shop worker Paul Sidebottom, 54, said police had spent hours in the street and had asked locals for CCTV. He said: 'Our shop CCTV hasn't shown anything. They asked if I'd seen or heard anything. They seemed very concerned.' Northamptonshire Police have also referred themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) due to previous contact they had with the victim. A missing person investigation was launched and after enquiries were fast-tracked she was found on Brisbane Road (pictured), Ilford, on Thursday - some 95.7 miles away from her home Map showing the location that Harshita's body was discovered on Brisbane Road The body of the woman was found in the boot of a car on Brisbane Road, pictured, in Ilford Map showing the location of Harshita Brella's home on Skegness Walk in Corby Police are today continuing to search for whoever was responsible for Harshita Brella's death, as they appealed for anyone with information to get in touch as soon as possible Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Johnny Campbell from the East Midlands Special Operations Major Crime Unit (EMSOU), had said on Saturday evening: 'First of all, I want to express my heartfelt condolences to everyone who loved Harshita Brella. 'She was a young woman in her early 20s with her whole life ahead of her and it is absolutely tragic that her life has been cut short in this way. 'Detectives from EMSOU and Northamptonshire Police are working around the clock to establish the circumstances behind her death, including the exact location and timeframe in which it took place.' The force said officers were satisfied there was no wider risk to the public as a result of this incident, but said extra patrols will be taking place in Corby in the coming days 'for reassurance purposes'. Anyone with any concerns is welcome to approach one of these officers who will be happy to help, Northamptonshire Police added. And DCI Campbell appealed to anyone who may have information about this incident to come forward. He added: 'We would appeal to anyone who knew her to contact us with any relevant information they may have. 'If you saw anything suspicious in the past week or have any information, no matter how small, please contact us. We would always rather receive well-meaning information that turns out to be nothing as opposed to not receiving it all.' Anyone who may have information that could assist police inquiries is asked to contact police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. A British Airways stewardess has claimed she woke up screaming in horror to find her colleague sexually assaulting her, forcing the airline to cancel two flights and leave hundreds of passengers stranded. The cabin worker reported the man to police alleging that he molested her while arousing himself as the pair were in bed with a third male colleague in an airline hotel room. This comes after she had spent the previous night partying with them both. BA immediately 'stood him (the man) down' and it is understood he will be formally suspended while investigations continue. The suspect was subsequently sent back to the UK from Rio. Devastated crew members were reportedly so upset that three of them could no longer carry on working. Two flights were then cancelled, leaving hundreds of passengers forced to find hotels. The BA crew had flown out to Brazil from London on a passenger flight earlier this month and describe having enjoyed some downtime. A British Airways stewardess has clamed she woke up screaming in horror after she found her colleague sexually assaulting her The BA crew had flown out to Rio (pictured) in Brazil from London on a passenger flight earlier this month and describe having enjoyed some downtime They were downing some drinks in Rio's bars and nightclubs when after returning to the hotel, the female victim allegedly woke to discover one of her male colleagues masturbating and touching her. The crew had been due to operate BA shuttle services from Rio to Buenos Aires and back. Rio authorities allowed the alleged sexual attacker to fly home on a BA flight as a passenger. He was picked up by Scotland Yard cops, who are now investigating the sex assault allegations. The Sun says it understands the alleged woman victim has met with Scotland Yard officers and given her account of what happened in Rio. A source said: 'This incident has traumatised some staff and shocked everyone at BA. 'How the crew member ended up in bed with two male colleagues is not known. But the group had been out drinking the night before. 'An evening of high-jinx the night before has resulted in an incredibly serious and upsetting allegation the following morning, which could end careers and lead to criminal convictions. 'Some of the people involved have long-term partners at home and the fall-out from this is devastating for a lot of people. 'BA has been offering support to those who need it and bosses are doing everything they can in what is an incredibly difficult situation.' Last night British Airways said: 'It would be inappropriate to comment during a police investigation.' Scotland Yard added: 'Police are investigating an allegation of sexual assault committed against a 33-year-old female whilst she was abroad in South America. 'The offence is alleged to have taken place on the 10 November. 'The victim is being supported by specialist officers. 'There have been no arrests. Enquiries are ongoing. 'We recognise the courage it takes for someone to report a sexual offence to police and we are committed to ensuring those who take this step are properly supported and have their reports thoroughly investigated.' Amanda Knox has been urged to 'shut up' by locals in Perugia as filming begins there for a new drama about Meredith Kercher's murder which she is co-producing. Kercher was stabbed to death in the apartment she shared with Knox while she was studying in Perugia in 2007 on exchange from the University of Leeds. Knox was found guilty of fatally stabbing Kercher and jailed but was acquitted of the murder for the second time in 2015, after she had already served four years of her sentence. Following a 2011 film for US television, her 2013 memoir, Waiting to be Heard, and a 2016 Netflix documentary, Knox is now co-producing an eight-part series about her path to freedom. When the crews for Disney-owned Hulu arrived in Perugia, they were met with a banner emblazoned with 'Rispetto per Meredith' (respect for Meredith). The banner was created by resident Walter Cardinali, who said he was furious that Kercher was being forgotten. 'Perugia was unable to defend Meredith, but we can defend her memory,' he told the Times. 'I don't like them filming here. It's time she shut up,' Angelo Messino, 32, added. Messino is the new manager of The Zoo bar, formerly Le Chic, where Knox worked while living in Perugia. The bar is close to reopening after being closed since the murder. Amanda Knox (pictured) has been urged to 'shut up' by locals in Perugia as filming begins there for a new drama about Meredith Kercher's murder which she is co-producing Meredith Kercher was on exchange from the University of Leeds in Perugia when she was found stabbed to death in the apartment which she shared with Ms Knox in 2007 When film crews for Disney-owned Hulu in the picturesque Italian town, they were met with a banner emblazoned with 'Rispetto per Meredith' (respect for Meredith) The city of Perugia nestled in the scenic region of Umbria has long attempted to move on from the now infamous murder case. Unsurprisingly, residents are now angry that their city is once again associated with the crime as film crews have taken over the town, which has even held off on putting up their Christmas lights to not interfere with filming. Local councillor Margherita Scoccia has criticised the Perugian authorities for allowing filming in the town in the first place. She said: 'Seventeen years ago, Perugia was shocked by the murder of Meredith Kercher, which sadly made us famous throughout the world.' Following Kercher's murder, local universities saw a fall in enrolment as several bars, restaurants and clubs had to shut due to a lack of tourists. 'Today that tragedy is being recalled and sensationalised in a TV series produced by the American, a figure who exists in public memory exclusively for her involvement in that crime and the sensational acquittal,' Scoccia said. 'It just brings back the horrible past,' one bed and breakfast owner who remembers the tragedy said this week. 'It's too macabre.' The mayor of Perugia - Vittorria Ferdinandi - has since issued an apology to locals in an open letter for allowing the filming to take place. Amanda Knox jailed after she was found guilty of fatally stabbing Kercher though she was then definitively acquitted of the murder in 2015 due to a lack of evidence - after she had already served four years of her sentence Meredith Kercher (pictured) was tragically murdered in 2007 The city of Perugia nestled in the scenic region of Umbria has long attempted to move on from the now infamous murder case US Amanda Knox (centre) arrives with her husband Christopher Robinson (2ndL) and lawyers at the courthouse in Florence, on June 5, 2024 before a hearing in a slander case, related to her jailing and later acquittal for the murder of her British roommate in 2007 According to the Guardian, she claimed to have overlooked 'the people and their sorrow, which is still alive in them.' While also defending the decision, Mayor Ferdinandi said that the series 'would have been filmed in any other town in our region' and by allowing the crew to film in the Perugia it gave the local government more control over what was filmed. Former Perugia public prosecutor Giuliano Mignini, who led the murder investigation into Knox and her then boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito, said that filming here and now is wrong, as it was dredging up unhappy memories for a city which was rocked to its core by the tragedy. 'Everything that has happened the murder, trial after trial (Knox and Sollecito were convicted and appealed twice) has had "many repercussions", he told the Mail earlier this month. 'Since then, enrolments have declined at the University of Perugia because students no longer feel safe, as they used to. They don't want to come here.' The new series has already sparked controversy after Disney was slammed for their 'lack of sensitivity' by Kercher's family. The lawyer for the Kercher family, Francesco Maresca, said: 'We've already spoken about this case too much and at a certain point you have to close the chapter.' Speaking to The Times, she added: 'However, Knox does not want to close the chapter. This continuous stirring is a demonstration of a lack of sensitivity. Amanda Knox, centre, is escorted by Italian penitentiary police officers to Perugia's court, in Italy, Sept 26, 2008 Knox and Sollecito, pictured in Italy shortly after the case made headlines in 2007, had only been dating for a short amount of time before Kercher's death Knox is now the mother of two small children, and has a podcast with her husband while campaigning against wrongful convictions Meredith's parents Arline (centre) and John (right) Kercher - who both died in 2020 - and her sister Stephanie (left) at a press conference in Perugia in November 2007 'She earns money, obtains visibility on the television after many years It seems that Knox does not want people to forget about this story and does all she can to keep it alive.' A statement from Kercher's sister Stephanie said that 'she will forever hold a lasting legacy in friendship and kindness that no media can change' as she spoke of 'an indescribable void'. The real murderer of Kercher was eventually identified as Rudy Guede, from the Ivory Coast, after his DNA was found on her body. He was sentenced to 16 years before being freed in 2021 as he only needed to serve 13 years due to good behaviour. Knox is now 37 and has two children. She spends her time advocating for criminal justice reform and campaigning against wrongful convictions. The new series is co-produced by Monica Lewinsky who became well-know for having an affair with the then-American president Bill Clinton - a story which Disney also decided to turn into a television drama. Series bosses say it tells the 'true story of how Amanda Knox was wrongfully convicted for the murder of her roommate Meredith Kercher and her 16-year odyssey to set herself free'. Lawyer Maresca has made disapproving references to talks Knox gave to American universities in 2018 for which she is reported to have been paid seven and a half thousand pounds for each. Speaking to The Times, he went so far as to say that her calumny conviction being upheld cast doubt on her complete innocence. 'Knox's silence at the moment would have been the most appropriate thing,' he concluded. Sir Keir Starmer tonight said he has 'no plans' to speak to Vladimir Putin despite Germany's Olaf Scholz recently holding talks with the Russian leader. The Prime Minister, speaking to reporters on his way to the G20 summit, added that shoring up support for Ukraine was 'top of my agenda' for the meeting in Brazil. World leaders are gathering in Rio de Janeiro on Monday and Tuesday, which will coincide with the 1,000th day of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Donald Trump's victory in the US election has sparked fresh uncertainty over continued American backing for Kyiv's fight against Mr Putin's forces. Earlier this week, Mr Scholz spoke to Mr Putin in what was the Russian president's first publicly announced conversation with the sitting head of a major Western power in nearly two years. Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky criticised the call by saying it had opened a 'Pandora's box', adding: 'This is exactly what Putin has long wanted: It is extremely important for him to weaken his isolation.' Sir Keir Starmer works on board a Government plane as he travels to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to attend the G20 summit Donald Trump 's victory in the US election has sparked fresh uncertainty over continued American backing for Kyiv 's fight against Vladimir Putin's forces Earlier this week, Olaf Scholz spoke to Mr Putin in what was the Russian leader's first publicly announced conversation with the sitting head of a major Western power in nearly two years Asked for his view on Mr Scholz's action, and if he intended to speak with Mr Putin himself, Sir Keir said: 'It's a matter for Chancellor Schloz who he speaks to, I have no plans to speak to Putin. 'We are coming up to the 1,000th day of this conflict on Tuesday, that's 1,000 days of Russian aggression, 1,000 days of huge impact and sacrifice in relation to Ukrainian people. 'And recently we've seen the addition of North Korean troops working with the Russians, which does have serious implications. 'I think, on the one hand, it shows the desperation of Russia but it's got serious implications for European security, that added additional element and for Indo-Pacific security. 'That's why I think we need to double down on shoring up our support for Ukraine and that's top of my agenda for the G20. 'There's got to be full support for as long as it takes and that certainly is top of my agenda, shoring up that further support for Ukraine.' Russia launched a large-scale attack on Ukraine on Sunday, with Mr Zelensky claiming that Russia had launched a total of 120 missiles and 90 drones. A Los Angeles man was exposed by 20 brazen teens who lured him to a park to catch him trying to meet up with a minor. William Vandenbush, 46, allegedly sent naked pictures and 'agreed to meet a minor for sexual purposes,' the Riverside County Sheriff's Office wrote in a statement. But when he arrived at Nicolas Road Park in Temecula on Friday at around 4:25pm, he was ambushed by a group of teens who plotted to stop him in his tracks. 'Upon arrival, a deputy was met with a crowd of approximately 20 juveniles recording the encounter,' the sheriff's office wrote. Police arrested the Homeland, California resident and took him to the Cois Byrd Detention Center. He was booked for reportedly sending harmful matter to a minor, contacting a minor for sexual purposes, and arranging to meet with minor for sexual purposes. The sheriff's office declined to release further details due to the ongoing investigation. However, they warned civilians not to pull stunts like this because even though it worked this time around, these situations can take dangerous turns. William Vandenbush, 46, allegedly sent naked pictures and 'agreed to meet a minor for sexual purposes' The statement reads: 'The Riverside County Sheriffs Office strongly discourages residents from conducting their own undercover investigations and arranging to meet with potential suspects. 'This action unnecessarily jeopardized the safety of everyone in the vicinity of the park.' The shocking incident occurred just days after a Florida mother confronted a predator sexting her 13-year-old daughter, resulting in him getting shot by police. The unidentified mother learned on Sunday that someone was engaged in an 'inappropriate text relationship' with her daughter on Sunday, Jacksonville Sheriff's Office Chief Alan Parker said at a news conference the following day. He said the worried mom decided to take her daughter's phone and start texting the alleged predator, who was later identified as 18 year old Cerry Rodriques Banks, and arranged to meet up with him at a local Popeye's at 7am. Banks still thought he was talking to the teenager, and agreed with the plan. But when the mother showed up with her daughter and her 11-year-old son to the restaurant on Monday, Banks allegedly showed them a gun tucked into his waistband and warned, 'When you hear the shots tonight, you know what's up,' Parker said. At that point, the mother went inside the restaurant and called police, who responded about half an hour later, and found Banks still outside. Responding Officer Garrion Robinson then approached the suspect and went to handcuff him, when police say he started running around the back of the Popeye's, and Robinson chased him. According to the sheriff's office, 20 teens ambushed the man after luring him to Nicolas Road Park When Robinson eventually turned a corner, he saw Banks pull a pistol from his waistband, Parker said. 'He yells for him, "Drop, stop, gun, gun, gun," engages [the] suspect; he shoots him multiple times,' the chief recounted. Still, police say, Banks continued to flee. 'The suspect continues around the neighboring business, then drops the gun,' Parker said. 'He continues running. The officer tracks him and loses sight of him.' Officers then deployed a K-9 unit to try to track Banks down, and he was ultimately located hiding in a drainage culvert. The suspect received medical assistance at the scene, as Parker said he was shot 'once in his hand, there's something in the torso and maybe one [time] in the leg.' In September, an online child predator hunter caught a man in Wyoming by setting him up to meet a fake underage girl. Sean Brennan, 57, came face-to-face with Colorado Ped Patrol member Tommy Fellows at Brennan's job. The teens were allegedly recording Vandenbush as police arrived to arrest him Throughout the clip, Fellows clutches and repeatedly references a binder he says contains a transcript of conversations between Brennan and decoy 'girls' - one of whom was allegedly 13. During the altercation, Fellows accused Brennan of teaching one of the made-up girls sex acts, and of making plans with her for the day. He also said he sent him and colleagues sexual pictures. At another point in, Fellows brought up how Brennan was convicted of a child pornography crime in Arizona around 25 years ago, after which he had to register as a sex offender. After several minutes, Lander Police responded to the scene, with one officer remarking how 'Wyoming is way behind Colorado' in the strength of its sex-crime laws and how it would be unlikely they could make a felony arrest at that point. A missing Wisconsin man died in a Chicago-area crash, it has been revealed. Ben Oberto, 45, had vanished Wednesday night, last seen leaving a restaurant in Crystal Lake just before 9pm on Wednesday. The wine seller had been in town for a work appointment, and he had told his wife over the phone how he would be home in time to put their son to bed. However, that was not the case - and he never showed up. A massive interstate search ensued - one lasting more than 60 hours. Police managed to track the man's phone to Rosemont, where he was found Friday morning. There, troopers from the New Berlin Police Department, with help from Illinois State Police, pulled the dad-of-two from an overturned Subaru Impreza found submerged in a local creek. Once retrieved, the body was positively identified as Oberto. As it stands, the wine representative's car appears to be the only one involved, as Oberto's wife issued a statement explaining what she and police who probed the man's last moments believe had happened. Scroll down for video: Ben Oberto, 45, vanished Wednesday night, last seen leaving a restaurant in Crystal Lake, Illinois, just before 9pm on Wednesday. The wine rep is seen here with his wife Laura Leatherberry and son, who are from New Berlin, Wisconsin Police managed to track the man's phone to Rosemont in Chicago, where he was found Friday. There, troopers from the New Berlin Police Department with help from Illinois State Police pulled the dad-of-one from an overturned Subaru Impreza submerged in a local creek 'The news I have to share is not what any of us want to hear,' wrote 38-year-old New Berlin resident Laura Leatherberry in a post to Facebook. 'Early this morning, we received confirmation that Bens car and body were found.' She went on to recount: 'On Wednesday, November 13th, at approximately 9:47 pm, Bens car left the freeway as he navigated a challenging turn towards home on a dark, rainy, and foggy night. 'He did not survive the accident,' she added. Statements from police said more of the same, with both the New Berlin Police and Illinois State Police confirming Oberto died after his vehicle veered off the 'challenging' stretch of freeway his wife had been referring to. The road in question, the I-90 eastbound ramp to I-294 northbound near Chicago's O'Hare Airport, has a pronounced curve, photos show. The crash is currently under investigation, cops in Illinois said - with all departments involved categorizing it as a 'single-vehicle accident.' The car is believed to have overturned at the bottom of the embankment, before going over the median and ending up submerged in the creek below. The dad-of-two died while making a 'challenging' turn on the freeway, while on his way home to his family Cops were seen at the scene late Friday - as divers worked relentlessly to retrieve the body. Leatherberry, in turn, wrote hours later: 'I dont yet have the words to truly express the deep sorrow Im experiencing, but you deserve to know the truth and not wait in agony anymore. 'These past 60+ hours of searching, wondering, and fighting to find my husband has been excruciating, but the overwhelming love and support from our family, friends, and community has helped me through this,' she continued. 'Together, we will get through this too.' She and cops were able to piece together his final moments thanks to combination of information garnered from tolls and data from his iPhone that pinged him in Rosemont near the airport. Officers went on to discern the traveling salesmen never got on any flights, and that his phone had gone dead. Police proceeded to sweep the area only to find no signs of Oberto - nor his car, his phone, or any reports of his body being brought to a local morgue or hospital. A father of two, Oberto is now being remembered by his family and those who knew him She and cops were able to piece together the wine rep's final moments thanks to combination of information garnered from tolls and data from his iPhone that pinged him near O'Hare airport Officers went on to discern the traveling wine salesmen - who worked for an importer based in New York City - never got on any flights, and that his phone had gone dead. He was found not far away, his car submerged in the creek Eventually, more than two days into the search, cops came across the submerged Subaru. 'Ben was not just my husband; he was a loving father, a cherished son, a caring brother, and a true friend to so many,' Leatherberry wrote, after being interviewed by stations such as CBS News as officers looking into her spouse's disappearance. 'His vibrant spirit, loving heart, and unmatched generosity left an indelible mark on every life he touched. 'As we mourn this profound loss, let us also celebrate the love and joy he brought into our lives. 'Thank you from the depths of my heart for your support and kindness during this unimaginably difficult time.' Oberto's company, New York City-based wine importer Massanois LLC, also issued a statement in response to his passing. 'Ben was not just my husband; he was a loving father, a cherished son, a caring brother, and a true friend to so many,' Leatherberry said after being interviewed by CBS News during the search. 'His vibrant spirit, loving heart, and unmatched generosity left an indelible mark' 'It is with a heavy heart that we write to inform you that Ben Oberto, while driving home to his family, passed away in a tragic car accident on Wednesday, November 13th,' it read. 'Our hearts go out to his wife, Laura; his children Collette and Augie; and his immediate family. 'Bens levity, kindness, and enthusiasm will be dearly missed by his friends and colleagues. 'We look forward to gathering to celebrate Bens life together, with both tears and laughter, as we mourn his loss.' President Joe Biden taunted President-elect Donald Trump during a tour of the Amazon rainforest Sunday, saying 'nobody can reverse' his green legacy. Biden - along with daughter Ashley and granddaughter Natalie - took a helicopter tour of the Amazon, before walking through a portion of the rainforest at the Museu da Amazonia in Manaus, Brazil. Trump ran a campaign on fully embracing fossil fuels and hired a fracking company CEO as his Department of Energy secretary after repeatedly labeling climate change a 'hoax.' 'It's no secret that I'm leaving office in January,' Biden said in a brief statement to the press, reading from teleprompters set up in the jungle setting. 'I will leave my successor and my country a strong foundation to build on if they choose to do so.' Biden said that while some seek to 'deny or delay' the clean energy revolution 'nobody, nobody can reverse it.' 'Not when so many people, regardless of party or politics, are enjoying its benefits. Not when countries around the world are harnessing the clean energy revolution to pull ahead themselves,' the 81-year-old Democrat said. 'The question now is, which government will stand in the way and which will seize the enormous economic opportunity,' Biden added. Senior administration officials who briefed reporters on the trip said Biden was able to see the effects of draught, deforestation and illegal forest cutting during the tour. President Joe Biden taunted President-elect Donald Trump during a tour of the Amazon rainforest Sunday, saying 'nobody can reverse' his green legacy President Joe Biden stands alongside his daughter Ashley (to his left) and granddaughter Natalie (to his right) during a tour of a portion of the Amazon rainforest Sunday in Manaus, Brazil The official said the administration is working hard to finalize environmental rules in the last two months of Biden's term. Much of what Biden is doing can be undone by his successor, although the new $50 million commitment is already out the door. Other efforts have a level of bipartisan support. As for Trump rolling it all back: 'Maybe he'll come down here and see the forest and see the damage being done from the drought and other things and change his mind about climate change,' said the official. Biden's own trip came with a heavy carbon footprint. An online calculator puts the cost of the brief trip by a smaller 757 (Air Force One is a modified 747) 45 tons of C02. According to the U.S. Government's Office of Science and Technical information, the Blackhawk helicopters that the president sometimes uses for transport emits 0.2-1.4 g/kg fuel of particulate matter, for the T700 engine, depending on the fuel. The feds have conducted reports on the gaseous and particulate-matter emissions when the aircraft are used in populated areas. Multiple helicopters were used during the aerial tour. Marine One can be seen flying over deforested portions of the Amazon rainforest Sunday in Brazil President Joe Biden tours the Museu da Amazonia with his granddaughter Natalie Biden (right) as they visit the Amazon Rainforest in Manaus, Brazil before heading on to Rio de Janeiro for the G20 Marine One can be seen flying over the Amazon River during President Joe Biden's aerial tour of the area on Sunday President Joe Biden (center right) arrives in Manaus, Brazil alongside daughter Ashley (right) on Sunday Marine One can be seen over a large ship on the Amazon River during Sunday's aerial tour Biden called attention to the importance of preserving the rainforest as a global carbon sink just days after leaders gathered for the annual COP20 climate change summit. This year's climate conference was held in fossil fuel-generating Baku, Azerbaijan. The president spoke how the Amazon is called the 'lungs of the world.' 'But in my view, our forests and national wonders are the heart and soul of the world,' he said. 'They unite us, they inspire us, they make us proud of our country's heritage.' Biden highlighted how the Amazon rainforest took 15 million years to grow. 'History is literally watching us now. So let's preserve this sacred place for our time and forever - for the benefit of all humanity,' he said. The president then ignored a shouted question on his decision to greenlight Ukraine's use of long-range weapons into Russia - as he's refused to speak to the press during the duration of his South America trip. In this case, maracas were being loudly played by the local indigenous tour guides who had shown the president and his family members around. The Democrat hasn't answered questions from reporters since Vice President Kamala Harris' bruising election loss to Trump - except to suggest he'd like to see a TV camera whack a journalist in the head. She had asked if he thought he'd be able to get a Middle East ceasefire before January 20th, when Trump takes over. Biden's stopever in Manaus came after he attended the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in Lima, Peru. He'll arrive Sunday night in Rio de Janeiro to attend his final G20 summit as the U.S. president. Ahead of his rainforest tour, the White House released a fact sheet Sunday detailing taht the U.S. has reached $11 billion in international climate financing, will proclaim November 17th to be 'International Conservation Day,' put $50 million toward the Amazon Conservation Fund, and allocate $10 billion in public and private investment for land restoration and 'bioeconomy-related projects' by 2030. The contribution comes after the administration announced plans for a $500 million contribution last year. The trip is a swan song for Biden, which he underlined by breaking with his usual routine by attending a dinner gathering at the ornate Government Palace during APEC in Lima. Then he had his a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping Saturday, hosted on the Chinese leader's hotel in an upscale neighborhood, as part of what what the White House described as a rotation of political turf. In Rio de Janeiro, Biden will be staying at a hotel on the beach under heavy guard by the Brazilian military, with a naval vessel patrolling the coast off the city's famed Copacabana beach. He is visiting for annual meeting of G20 leaders. He'll be on the ground for less than 48 hours before heading home to Washington. Brazil's left-wing President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva blasted 'neoliberalism' in remarks setting the tone for the event, as Biden and other politically weakened leaders start to roll into town. 'Neoliberalism has worsened the economic and political inequality that is currently plaguing democracies,' he said. The preliminary schedule released by the White House has Biden launching an alliance against hunger and poverty in a city whose iconic beaches are surrounded by impoverished favelas. He is also set to attend a reception for leaders in what is likely to be his last international conference, after spending decades jetting to all manner of global gatherings as a senator, vice president and president. Then, he is set to have a 'working lunch' with the Brazilian president, before heading back to Washington on Air Force One for the last two months of his term. A Florida woman was arrested after attempting to file for hurricane relief using her mother's name and claiming she looked younger because of Botox, according to police. Veronica Torres, 44, was arrested Friday on a charge of filing a false public assistance claim, a third-degree felony, the Bradenton Police Department said. She schemed to use her mother's name, driver's license and social security information to apply for the City of Bradenton's Hurricane Disaster Assistance Program. Hurricane Helen and Hurricane Milton swept through Manatee County - where Bradenton is located - over the span of 13 days and caused an estimated $65.6 million in damages, reported the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. According to police, Torres claimed she was forced to move out of her home because of the storms. Her request for approximately $7,967 was approved, but when she went to pick up her check on Thursday a city employee was startled by the difference in her appearance on the application. The employee questioned why Torres looked younger than the woman in the identification provided on the assistance application. 'Her explanation of botox treatments failed to convince the employee,' police said. Veronica Torres (pictured), 44, was arrested Friday after attempting to file for hurricane relief using her mother's name and claiming she looked younger because of Botox Hurricane Helen and Hurricane Milton swept through Manatee County - where Bradenton (pictured) is located - over the span of 13 days Torres was asked to come pick up the check the following day and when she came for the second time police questioned her. She was arrested and then released after posting $2,500 bond, according to records obtained by NBC News. Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton most recently struck the Sunshine State, killing hundreds of people and destroying thousands of homes and businesses through a record-breaking August to October period. Insurance experts told DailyMail.com that premiums have sky-rocketed in recent weeks, prompting many lifelong residents to contemplate moving out of state for the first time. A Tampa couple were left devastated to learn their insurance company denied their flood claim because their living room is classified as a basement. Food waters rushed through Jaime Giangrande-Holcom's family home and ruined everything in the living room when Hurricane Helene hit the Sunshine State in September. The extensive damage prompted her and her husband to file a claim through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). However, an insurance adjuster said the three-and-a-half inch 'step down' from the entrance to the living room means the area is technically classified as "basement," and therefore not included in their coverage. Torres claimed she was forced to move out of her home because of the storms which caused an estimated $65.6 million in damages in Manatee County 'It's ridiculous. To even come out and say the word "basement" in the state of Florida is comical,' Jaime told WFLA. Jaime and her husband had paid $3,800 for flood insurance this year through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The NFIP defines a basement as any area of a building with a floor that is below ground level on all sides, according to its website. It consider rooms that are not fully below ground level - such as sunken living rooms - as basements, because the lowest floor is below ground on all sides. However, Jaime hopes the measurements of her house will prove the living room is not below ground level and therefore not a basement. Democratic lawmakers are admitting that they may have missed the mark in the 2024 election and are calling on their colleagues to stop 'preaching down' to Americans. And Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) says that her party could learn a thing-or-two from Republicans after their sweeping wins this election cycle that will see the GOP with a trifecta in the House, Senate and White House next year. Asked why Democrats lost, Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.) said his party needs to stop 'canceling' people that might disagree with them on something. 'We have policy issues that are out of touch with the American people,' Moskowitz acknowledged when speaking with CNN. 'Our tent's got to get there,' he continued, 'we've got to be more accepting of positions all across the spectrum without the shaming and the canceling that goes on on our side of the aisle.' Meanwhile, AOC also told the network: 'I think there are things we can learn about digital communication, about constant, direct communication with people and about sending a very clear and easy-to-understand message.' 'Even if those messages are very, very different in their values, proposals and dispositions,' she added. Donald Trump saw a commanding win against Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris on November 5, winning 312 Electoral College votes in a margin of victory not seen since 1988. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez admits that Democrats can 'learn from' Republicans in how they messaged during the 2024 campaign Meanwhile, Republicans won four seats in the Senate and now hold a majority of 53 to 47. There are still a handful of races left to call in the House, but Republicans have reached the 218-seat threshold needed to keep their control of the lower chamber. AOC admitted that Democrats losing their Senate majority, the White House and remaining in the minority in the House has more to do with than just messaging and also to do with policies. 'I mean I think there's a lot,' the progressive New York lawmaker said. 'It's much more than just a message.' 'There's the macroeconomic conditions that I think are inescapable,' she said in line with many Americans who said they voted for Trump this year because they were hurting more in their pocketbooks with Democrats controlling the White House and upper chamber of Congress. Democrats are admitting that even if they felt numbers showed a different story, Americans were hurting at the cash register and were tired of being told that things were on track with the economy. 'Well obviously we've lost touch with the majority of Americans,' Rep. Seth Moulton (D-Mass.) told CNN. 'Democrats have a habit of preaching down to people and telling them that if they don't 100 percent agree with our orthodox view often defined by the far left, then they're just bad people they're morally wrong. And that's not going to win us any elections.' More thunderstorms to lash Australian states Aussies are being warned to brace for even more wild weather with heavy rain, damaging winds and thunderstorms set to bring a wet end to spring. Another round of dangerous thunderstorms is forecast for parts of Victoria, NSW and Queensland as a cold front moves over the country's southeastern states. There is a chance of thunderstorms in Sydney and Brisbane on Monday and a medium chance of showers in Melbourne. Meanwhile, rising heat and heightened fire risks are expected in southeast Australia starting Friday, with temperatures forecast to climb into the high 30s and low 40s. In the Harbour City, a severe thunderstorm on Sunday evening sparked flight cancellations and dislodged a road plate near the Harbour Bridge. The road plate, measuring one square metre and made of concrete and steel, dislodged during the storm after 8pm, damaging 25 cars and causing a two-hour traffic delay for motorists on the Harbour Bridge. NSW Secretary of Transport Josh Murray apologised to the motorists and said Transport for NSW would pay to repair the damage to cars caused by the road plate. 'It was a nightmare,' Murray told 2GB's Ben Fordham on Monday. Your browser does not support iframes. Pictured, accumulated precipitation for the 3 days leading up to Tuesday Pictured, more than 100mm of rain was forecast to fall in these areas across the weekend and into Monday 'Let me apologise to anyone whose car was damaged or anyone else who was caught up for about two hours.' Meanwhile, travellers at Sydney Airport were hit with more than 20 flight cancellations due to the storm activity. The State Emergency Service responded to 278 calls across the state, with 81 in Sydney, 50 in southern NSW and 49 in western NSW. The strong winds also caused scattered power outages across Sydney including Auburn, Central Coast and around Newcastle. Showers are forecast for Tasmania across the start of the week, severe thunderstorms will threaten southern Queensland on Monday. On Tuesday, tropical moisture is predicted to bring heavy rain to Western Australia's west coast. Severe thunderstorms are expected for parts of NSW, Queensland and Western Australia this week Sydney Monday: Showers, up to 7mm of rain. Chance of a thunderstorm. Winds up to 25km/h. Max 27C. Tuesday: Slight chance of showers. Winds up to 20km/h. Min 18C Max 23C. Wednesday: Slight chance of a shower. Winds up to 20km/h. Min 17C Max 25C. Thursday: Slight chance of a shower. Winds up to 20km/h. Min 17C Max 23C. Melbourne Monday: Medium chance of showers. Winds up to 20km/h. Max 19. Tuesday: Slight chance of a shower. Winds up to 25km/h. Min 12C Max 18C. Wednesday: Partly cloudy. Winds up to 25km/h. Min 11C Max 19C. Thursday: Sunny. Winds up to 25km/h. Min 11C Max 30C. Brisbane Monday: Mostly sunny. Slight chance of a shower. Chance of a thunderstorm. Winds up to 25km/h. Max 29C. Tuesday: Showers. Up to 30mm of rain. Chance of a thunderstorm. Winds up to 20km/h. Min 21C Max 25C. Wednesday: Showers. Up to 20mm of rain. Winds up to 25km/h. Min 20C Max 24C. Thursday: Showers. Up to 8mm of rain. Winds up to 30km/h. Min 20C Max 24C. Canberra Monday: Chance of a shower. Winds up to 25km/h, Max 23C. Tuesday: Slight chance of a shower. Winds up to 25km/h. Min 7C Max 24C. Wednesday: Slight chance of a shower. Winds up to 25km/h. Min 9C Max 26C. Thursday: Cloudy. Winds up to 25km/h. Min 9C Max 23C. Hobart Monday: Showers. Max 17C. Tuesday: Partly cloudy. Winds up to 25km/h. Min 8C Max 19C. Wednesday: Slight chance of a shower. Winds up to 30km/h. Min 8C Max 17C. Thursday: Sunny. Winds up to 25km/h. Min 6C Max 21C. Perth Monday: Medium chance of showers. Chance of a thunderstorm. Winds up to 40km/h. Gusts to 60km/h are possible. Max 32C. Tuesday: Medium chance of showers. Chance of a thunderstorm. Winds up to 35km/h. Min 19C Max 29C. Wednesday: Showers. Up to 8mm of rain. Chance of a thunderstorm. Winds up to 20km/h. Min 17C Max 25C. Thursday: Medium chance of showers. Winds up to 25km/h. Min 16C Max 23C. On Tuesday, tropical moisture is set to lash Western Australia's west coast, with the unseasonal rain becoming more extensive on Wednesday Adelaide Monday: Mostly sunny. Slight chance of a shower. Winds up to 30km/h. Max 22C. Tuesday: Sunny. Winds up to 30km/h. Min 10C Max 25C. Wednesday: Sunny. Winds up to 25km/h. Min 11C Max 28C. Thursday: Sunny. Winds up to 25km/h. Min 15C Max 33C. Darwin Monday: Showers. Up to 9mm of rain. Chance of a thunderstorm. Winds up to 20km/h. Max 35C. Tuesday: Showers. Up to 20mm of rain. Chance of a thunderstorm. Min 26C Max 33C. Wednesday: Showers. Up to 15mm of rain. Chance of a thunderstorm. Winds up to 20km/h. Min 25C Max 33C. Thursday: Showers. Up to 15mm of rain. Chance of a thunderstorm. Min 26C Max 33C. Santa Rosa police stopped 871 vehicles during Friday nights four-hour DUI checkpoint. Santa Rosa Police Department A Friday night crackdown on impaired drivers yielded multiple arrests. Santa Rosa police announced the five drivers were arrested at a DUI checkpoint at Piner Road and Coffey Lane from 8 p.m. through midnight. During the operation, 871 vehicles were contacted and 10 suspected impaired drivers were evaluated. The checkpoint also led to 22 citations for driving without a license. One driver was arrested on suspicion of driving with a suspended or revoked license, and another was cited for violating probation terms and possessing drug paraphernalia. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Strongman champ Luke Stoltman has broken his silence after his heartbroken wife went public with cheating allegations in an explosive post on social media. Tonight, he wrote of the 'pain' he had caused and regretted 'the mistakes that I have made'. The hulking Scot's partner Kushi, 31, has accused him of having trysts with a woman powerlifter while their child was unwell. In a post on Instagram, Luke wrote: 'I want to acknowledge the pain caused to my family, friends and community by recent social media and news. 'I regret the mistakes that I have made and the impact they've had, especially on my family, Kushi and my son, who is my world. 'While not everything shared is true, I want to be clear that I was with my son in hospital. 'I am committed to acting responsibly and rebuilding the trust of those who feel let let down. 'I am deeply grateful for those who continue to support me, and my focus remains on caring for my son and supporting those affected by the situation. Strongman champ Luke Stoltman has broken his silence after his heartbroken wife went public with cheating allegations in an explosive post on social media. Luke Stoltman, 39, and his wife Kushi, 31, (pictured together) share a nine-month-old baby boy Stoltman is currently Europe's Strongest Man and has won the national title five times. The hulking Scot's partner Kushi, 31, has accused him of having trysts with a woman powerlifter while their child was unwell Tonight, he wrote of the 'pain' he had caused and regretted 'the mistakes that I have made'. This image shows Stoltman's Instagram post 'I respectfully ask for privacy for my family as we navigate this matter together.' In a heartfelt post on her Instagram story, Kushi claimed that her husband has been having liaisons with a fellow competitor. The mum said she was 'heartbroken and devastated', later adding that the whole situation has been 'extremely traumatic' for her. The cheating allegations come after the couple finally welcomed their first child after years of fertility treatment. Kushi previously wrote on Instagram: 'I thought my world was complete going through so much heartache to get my beautiful baby boy and finally get pregnant and getting that happily ever after I've always wanted with my husband after trying for so many years. 'Our son is 9 months old now and this weekend after our son has been in hospital so sick and Luke refusing to come and see him in hospital because he was with another woman behind my back. 'I am absolutely heartbroken and devastated that someone could be so cruel and nasty. He is not the man he portrays himself to be. 'Thank you very much Luke Stoltman... for torturing me. I have no idea how people in this world can be so cruel.' She added: 'I am absolutely heartbroken and what I have been put through is unforgivable. In a heartfelt post on her Instagram story, Kushi claimed that her husband has been having liaisons with a fellow competitor. Pictured: Kushi Kushi Stoltmam named Canadian athlete Melissa Peacock (pictured) as her husbands mistress. The 5ft 5in Peacock has made a name for herself on the international powerlifting circuit 'My whole world has been turned upside down and I need to try and rebuild a new life for us and be the best mother I can be for my child. 'People can portray themselves a certain way publicly but their true colours always show in the end. 'No I have not been hacked and I am so devastated how a man can put his family through this.' Later she revealed that she has been 'overwhelmed' by the support she has received over the last few days. As part of the process, she said this would involve deactivating her account to get some space. Kushi posted: 'Overwhelmed with the amount of support I have received the last few days, it means so much. 'Each and every one of your messages has brought me some sort of comfort. Luke has won the national title of Europe's Strongest Man five times. Nicknamed the Highland Oak, he is the older brother of current World's Strongest Man Tom, 30. It comes as heartbroken Kushi Stoltmam named Canadian athlete Melissa Peacock as her husbands mistress. Kushi accused her husband and Melissa, 28, of torturing her by having an affair while they were away competing at tournaments. The 5ft 5in heavily tattooed Peacock has made a name for herself on the international powerlifting circuit and came to the attention of fans when she was able to deadlift 550lbs. She has also been able to pull a half ton pick up truck from a standing start and won a bronze medal in the Worlds Ultimate Strongman contest in 2021. Peacock, who is from Regina in Saskatchewan in Canada, has not responded to being named by Stoltmans wife. Most recently the 5ft 5in tall powerlifter and Stoltman, 39, competed at the Rogue Invitational tournament held in Aberdeen. He finished 5th in the competition while Peacock was placed 10th in the womens event. The blonde 275lb athlete is something of a minor celebrity in her hometown with the local media following her exploits on the powerlifting circuit. An ankle monitor removed from an Afghan refugee has been reattached by officials a day after it was removed. Ahmed's eight years in immigration detention included a four-year stint on Christmas Island before he was released after a landmark High Court decision in November 2023 found indefinite detention was unlawful and unconstitutional. An ankle monitor was placed on him as part of his release along with about 140 others nationwide. 'Seriously, the detention is one thing and the ankle monitor is a whole other thing that is much harder,' he told AAP hours before Border Force officers detached it from his leg at a Department of Home Affairs office in western Sydney. 'You're walking in the community and you're feeling shame.' Breaching the conditions of Bridging Visa R can result in a maximum penalty of five years in jail or more than $93,000 in fines, or both. In a 5-2 majority decision, the High Court ruled earlier in November the conditions were punitive and breached the separation of powers, following a legal challenge brought by a stateless Eritrean refugee. In response, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke quickly introduced new legislation allowing monitoring devices and curfews to be enforced again, as well the power to deport to third countries 'to protect community safety'. 'The court's decision is not the one the government wanted - but it is one the government has prepared for,' the minister said. An Afghan refugee has had his ankle monitor removed after a High Court ruling - and attached again A departmental spokesperson told AAP it would not be appropriate for Border Force or Home Affairs to comment on individual cases when asked why Ahmed's ankle monitor was removed then re-attached a day later to abide by the court ruling. Several human rights groups condemned the sweeping government measures as an attempt to circumvent High Court decisions. 'The federal government must stop playing politics with people's lives,' Amnesty International refugee rights campaigner Zaki Haidari said. Ahmed, a 32-year-old construction worker from Afghanistan, escaped the war-torn country because of persecution against the Shi'ite minority Hazaras and arrived in Australia by boat in 2012. 'We left Afghanistan because of the war and the Taliban was fighting against our people (Hazaras) because we look different,' he said. He was arrested in 2014 on an expired bridging visa while seeking a permanent protection visa. After a year in a remand centre for indecent assault charges, which he maintains were dropped, he was transferred to immigration detention in 2015 where he remained for eight years. 'They (successive governments) robbed us of our lives, they lied to the Australian people and they're not saying the truth about us,' Ahmed said. 'They don't know us. I have a family. I am a hard worker. I want to build my life. We're also same like them - we are human beings.' Ahmed was one of about 140 detainees fitted with ankle monitors after being released On the construction site, Ahmed finds it particularly difficult to do his job wearing pants on hot summer days and being mobile. The electronic devices must be charged throughout the night so authorities can track the freed detainees' movements. 'You can't sleep properly at night because you're always waking up from the sweat, the pimples and rashes ... it's already terrible enough.' Ahmed uses baby powder to stop the chafing. He talked of the discrepancy between how non-citizens of refugee backgrounds and Australians who have committed crimes were treated. 'Every day people go in jail for serious crimes but then they are let out and they're free ... what do they want to do with us?' he said. He spoke of the relief he felt when the ankle monitor was removed and the crushing agony that rapidly set in the day after. 'The weight was gone. I wanted to celebrate,' Ahmed said. 'Here on the outside, everyone is the same except me.' Sue Gray was blocked from taking a new Downing Street job after she demanded a pay rise, it was reported today. The former chief of staff to the Prime Minister was offered a regions envoy role - but demanded more money to take it, according to reports. Civil servants were said to be so shocked by her demands that they were preparing to publicly declare her not value for money, the Sun on Sunday reported. Last week it emerged that Ms Gray would no longer be taking the envoy role she was offered after she left Number 10 over a row about her pay. She is said to have asked to be paid more than her former 170,000 salary to take up the part-time role as the Prime Ministers envoy to the nations and regions. Nevertheless, she is still expected to be made a peer within weeks when his next honours list is published before the new year. The former senior civil servant left Number 10 last month saying she risked becoming a distraction after a row over her pay and a power battle within Number 10. She was replaced by Morgan McSweeney who ran Labours successful election campaign. Keir Starmer's former chief of staff was offered a role as the PM's 'envoy for the nations and regions' after being ousted in early October However, The Sun on Sunday reported that the offer was withdrawn by Number 10 because Ms Gray had demanded an eye-watering pay package She was then offered a role as the PMs envoy to the nations and regions but last week said she would not be taking the job. The Sun on Sunday reported that the offer was withdrawn by Number 10 because Ms Gray had demanded an eye-watering pay package. She earned more than the Prime Ministers 166,786 salary in her previous role and was said to have asked for more to do the envoy role. The envoy role is part time - so while she would have been earning less than the PM annually she wanted more money per day worked. A Westminster source told the paper: Sue was digging her feet in over money. A Labour spokesman said it did not comment on staffing matters. A major carrot producer stocking grocery stores across the nation has issued an urgent recall due to an E. coli outbreak. California-based Grimmway Farms has voluntarily recalled various sizes and brands of organic carrots on Saturday, according the the CDC. Eighteen states are affected as grocers have been forced to rapidly pull prominent carrot brands from their shelves. Due to the contamination, one person has died and 15 have been hospitalized. There have been 39 reported cases overall, the CDC reported. All the recalled carrots were sold from August 14 to October 23. Organic carrots have been recalled from: Bunny Luv, Cal-Organic, Compliments, Full Circle, Good & Gather, GreenWise, Marketside, Nature's Promise, O-Organic, President's Choice, Simple Truth, Trader Joe's, Wegmans, Wholesome Pantry and 365. Baby carrots with best-if-used-by dates from September 11 to November 12 have been pulled from Sprouts, Raley's, President's Choice and Grimmway Farms. People who have any carrots from these brands should throw them out immediately or return them to the store, the CDC advised. Bunny-Luv is one of the 19 brands impacted by the Grimmway Farms recall People suffering from E. coli poisoning may experience diarrhea, high fever, stomach cramps, vomiting, dehydration, dry mouth and dizziness, according to the CDC. Many people infected with the Shiga toxin-producing bacteria start to feel sick after three or four days after exposure. Recovery without medical treatment is common, with many individuals feeling better after five or seven days. Others, the CDC noted, can develop critical kidney problems. The investigation into this outbreak is ongoing. This E. coli scare comes as McDonald's Quarter Pounder has left 104 people sick across 14 states. One man has died and 34 people have had to go to the hospital, likely because the slivered onions on the burger were contaminated with E. coli. Out of the people hospitalized, four of them developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, or HUS, which is a serious condition that can cause life-threatening kidney failure. Illnesses began on dates ranging from September 12 to October 21, but there are likely more to come as symptoms of E. coli typically take between three to four weeks to appear. Organic carrots in whole and baby-cut varieties have been recalled due to the E. coli outbreak The burgers were taken off the menu completely in an effort to rectify the situation at about 20 percent of McDonald's. Other locations, however, are just serving the burger with no onions on it. Experts have warned against consuming uncooked fruits and vegetables as there is no opportunity to heat away any potential bacteria. Darin Detwiler, a professor of food regulatory policy at Northeastern University told NBC New York: 'If you look at just the sheer number of outbreaks and recalls over the last 15 years, we typically see more cases of E. coli tied to produce.' Barbara Kowalcyk, director of the Institute for Food Safety and Nutrition Security at George Washington University also warned against eating bagged salads that include greens such as lettuce, sprouts and cantaloupe. She explained that sealed bags or containers that hold leafy greens can create a breeding ground for bacteria. 'Any leaf that is torn or damaged, I just throw it away, because that's how the bacteria can get in there. And I usually take the outer leaves off and discard them.' The senior expert recommended thoroughly washing and drying packages greens - using a paper towel - to help remove bacteria. Berkeley Club Beverages had to recall 150,000 bottles of water across Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland after the FDA discovered coliform bacteria in the drinks. Stores across 18 states had to pull organic carrots from their shelves, as 39 cases of E. coli poisoning have already been reported Coliform bacteria indicates there may be a more harmful bacteria present, such as E. coli. The recall includes Berkeley Springs Water Purified and Berkeley Springs Water Distilled in one- and five-gallon bottles. While the amount or type of bacteria has not been revealed, the FDA has a zero limit for coliform. The recall, issued in September, was assigned a Class III classification, meaning exposure to the bacteria 'is not likely to cause adverse health consequences.' Berkeley Club Beverages voluntarily recalled its product on September 12 and as of November 13, the FDA terminated its investigation. SNP infighting has descended into active warfare after Stephen Flynn accused his rivals in the party of lies and fabrication over his controversial bid to take on two jobs. The SNP Westminster leader publicly condemned allies of sitting MSP Audrey Nicoll for claims that he indicated she should stand aside and let him be candidate for Aberdeen South and North Kincardine. It exposes a growing civil war in the SNP over his controversial decision to seek to act as MP and MSP if he succeeds with his Holyrood bid. He also refused to rule out a bid to succeed John Swinney as SNP leader while repeatedly referring to himself as ambitious. Mr Flynn defended his decision to seek a dual mandate as MP and MSP by claiming it would cost taxpayers more money if there was a by-election for his Westminster constituency of Aberdeen South. Scottish Conservative MSP Stephen Kerr said: The SNP are engaged in active warfare right out in the open. Long gone are the days of a cohesive SNP unit. Stephen Flynn's bid to stand as an MSP has sparked a civil war in the SNP In his first major interview since announcing his bid to stand for the Holyrood constituency of Aberdeen South and North Kincardine while remaining MP, Mr Flynn told the BBC that doing two jobs would save the public purse a significant amount of money by not causing a by-election. But he acknowledged the backlash that his decision had caused among sections of his party, and said: There is always going to be a strong reaction to someone seeking to do something slightly differently. Ive experienced this before in politics, its not something which is particularly pleasant, its not something which is particularly comfortable, particularly when youre dealing with people who you know really well, you are dealing in my case with a colleague who overlaps almost entirely with the constituency which I currently represent at Westminster. This is not a pleasant situation for either of us.' Mr Flynn went on: All I am seeking to do is ask the members who vote for us, who ultimately decide who their candidate is going to be, to make a decision: do they want Audrey to be their candidate or do they want me to be their candidate? Audrey Nicoll is the MSP for Aberdeen South and North Kincardine During his appearance on The Sunday Show, Mr Flynn hit out at allies of Ms Nicoll who told the Sunday Mail that he suggested she should stand aside during a telephone conversation only hours before he publicly announced his intentions. He said: That is a lie. Mr Flynn confirmed he called Ms Nicoll the night before his plans were announced but claimed it was a fairly cordial conversation, albeit brief. He said: I made clear to her my intentions, Audrey of course suggested that some had been thinking I may seek candidacy in Dundee, which I assume would be a much bigger story. I dont want to do that, I live in Aberdeen, this is where my life is, I am very fortunate to represent the people here. Shes told me that she wasnt overly surprised at the decision that I was taking, that I was obviously seeking to progress my activities in politics, and that was ultimately the end of the conversation. He said he had hoped to have the conversation sooner but he wanted to leave Ms Nicoll to deal with significant goings-on in Aberdeen locally, which appeared to refer to her councillor husband Alex Nicoll quitting the SNP and criticising its decisions. He went on: None of this has been particularly edifying for anyone. I dont want to be doing this, I dont want to be having these discussions on television trying to defend myself over lies and fabrications that are in newspapers this morning, but thats the reality of politics sometimes. Its not pleasant. Im not going to shy away, Im not going to be hounded out from standing for what I believe in, which is to represent the people of Aberdeen South and North Kincardine in Holyrood, doing my best for them both in Westminster and in Holyrood for a short period. Mr Flynn was also asked why double jobbing was ok for him but not former Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross, who acted as MSP for North East Scotland and MP for Moray until this years general election. He claimed Mr Ross took two salaries whereas he will not, only to be corrected for the false claim by presenter Martin Geissler. When asked if he is on manoeuvres and wants a crack at the leadership, Mr Flynn said: I am ambitious, Martin, Im seriously ambitious for Aberdeen and for Scotland. I dont believe that there is going to be a leadership contest in the Scottish National Party for a long, long time. Because John Swinney is going to win the Scottish Parliament elections in 2026, he is going to continue as First Minister, and should there be a future leadership election it will be in the dim and distant future because John Swinney is leader of our party and is going to be leader of our party for a long time to come. A source close to Ms Nicoll told the BBC that there was an underlying inference by Mr Flynn in the telephone conversation that she should stand aside. North East MSP Liam Kerr said: Stephen Flynns comments lay bare the scale of the civil war that is engulfing the SNP. Not only are his justifications completely hypocritical, but Stephen Flynn was also so desperate to defend his decision he couldnt even deliver a political attack line accurately. It is little wonder public trust in politicians is on the decline when senior SNP politicians are so quick to criticise behaviour in others. Scottish Conservative deputy leader Rachael Hamilton said: Stephen Flynn must think Scots are buttoned up the back. He is fooling no one with his attempts to justify his plans to sit in both of Scotlands parliaments. Stephen Flynn knows fine well this smacks of rank hypocrisy. He is just another SNP politician who thinks there should be one rule for his party, and another for everyone else. A woman has described how she was scammed out of nearly $500,000 by suspects who have already targeted 49 people across Wisconsin alone. The Prescott woman, asking to not be named, laid out the con in a filmed interview with WISN 12, showing receipts as proof. The receipts were for gold bars purchased at the behest of the scammers - after they successfully convinced her that her bank account had been hacked. Told to invest in gold as a result, the victim was then goaded into giving the confidence-men the gold - after being told they'd be best-suited to protect it. At that point, after emptying her accounts, the senior was swayed into thinking her savings - now all in gold - would then be transferred to the Fed in Washington, DC. A 'courier' later identified as Indian fraudster Gourav Patel proceeded to pick up the haul - only to then disappear. Now out some $433,279.53, the woman recalled how the case started. It began with an email on her iPad from someone claiming to be from Apple, saying her IP address had been hacked. Scroll down for video: The Prescott woman, asking to not be named, laid out the con in a filmed interview with WISN 12 , showing receipts as proof Suspect Gourav Patel proceeded to pick up the haul, only to then disappear. He has since been deported, after ignoring an order to return the money 'I thought, I have an Apple phone, I have an Apple iPad,' the woman said, showing slips that showed how she first withdrew $134,000, and then another $298,768. 'So, I thought it was legitimate.' She recalled how she proceeded to call the number advertised, before being met with someone on the other line falsely claiming to be Alvaro Bedoya. Bedoya, the head of the entire Federal Trade Commission, went on to plead with her in a subsequent voicemail, 'I am in the office, ma'am, and I want to talk to you. 'So, please answer the call or call us back.' The request came after the call got disconnected - after which the man on the other end immediately called back. That was the case whenever the calls between the two would drop, the woman recalled - describing how the person posing as Bedoya would call back immediately. The person, later identified as Patel, would then tell her identity was stolen, that she was now in witness protection, and that someone had gained access her accounts. The receipts were for gold bars purchased at the behest of the scammers - after they successfully convinced her that her bank account had been hacked It would later come to light that the man on the phone mispronouncing Bedoya's name was the same person who surfaced at her doorstop days later - after she was carefully instructed to tell the bank tellers and others that she was making the large withdrawals to help a family member's investment. Once she wired the cash to purchase the bars, the courier arrived at her house to pick them up, she recalled - remembering how Patel silently stole the sum. 'He never said nothing to me. I never said nothing to him,' she said - revealing how she handed over the bars three separate times. She remembered how she later told cops how Patel never returned with any of the tender - and that she didn't know where the bars were going. The victim also told police how the same man picked up the gold bars each time - describing him as Mexican with a medium build. She also wrote down his license plate, which came back to be registered to Patel, paving the way for nationwide warrant for his arrest to be aired out of Pierce County. Police would go on to arrested Patel in a sting operation in Northern Minnesota months later, before linking him back to the case in Prescott. Officers did so by uncovering boxes in his car that once contained the gold bars addressed to her, with the details still on it. At that point, after emptying her accounts, the senior was swayed into thinking her savings - now all in gold - would then be transferred to the Fed in Washington, DC Cops have also arrested another man who took part in the scam, Junjie Liang, seen here in court He remains cuffed on charges he scammed a separate woman out of more than $700,000 using the same scam model He's now facing a litany of fraud charges that carries a maximum sentence of 12 and a half years in prison - as well as a $25,000 fine. 'The first trial I had, when he walked into the courtroom, I said, "That's him,"' she told the outlet of the suspected con man, who is from Stevens Point. Before that, he lived in Chicago, and before that, India. Feds say his operation saw 49 people have scammed out of roughly $13 million in Wisconsin alone, as similar scams have been spotted in cities like New York and Baltimore. Earlier this year, Patel pleaded guilty to running the scam in both Minnesota and Wisconsin. At his sentencing, he told the Prescott woman how he was sorry. He was also ordered to pay back the entire sum. 'I know it's [a] pretty big amount," he reportedly said at the time. 'I can try to at least make it right.' After 233 days in jail, Patel was given probation and deported back to India - and his mark says she still hasn't seen any of her robber savings. During the calls, Patel posed as Alvaro Bedoya, the head of the entire Federal Trade Commission When asked, experts said that in most cases, the likelihood of anyone getting money - or gold - back from such a scam is extremely low. 'The high-level view is individuals are preying on the men and women of this state through fear,' FBI Special Agent in Charge Michael Hensle told the station of the scams. 'If you think about people's livelihoods, right?' he went on. 'I mean, we have people who are involved in these schemes who give money to these couriers who lose their entire life savings.' The woman who is still waiting for her money also weighed in. 'It did put a strain on me for sure,' she said of the lost sum - almost a half-million dollars. 'It made me worried. I told my financial advisor I'm afraid to go to the grocery store and write out a check because I might not have enough money in my account.' She also recalled how she attended every court appearance for Patel, as cops in Waukesha also arrested another man who posed as a courier as part of the same scam - Junjie Liang. 'The high-level view is individuals are preying on the men and women of this state through fear,' FBI Special Agent Michael Hensle said of the scams. 'If you think about people's livelihoods... I mean, we have people who are involved... who lose their entire life savings' Hensle added how the scam has links to both China and India, telling WISN 12 'There's a huge percentage of these fraud schemes that are perpetuated by nation-state actors, other countries, and individuals within those countries' 'I wanted him to know that I didn't think this was right,' she said, as Liang remains cuffed on charges he scammed a separate woman out of more than $700,000 using the same model. 'You know, how could people do this to other people?' Hensle added how the scam has links to both China and India, telling WISN 12 'There's a huge percentage of these fraud schemes that are perpetuated by nation-state actors, other countries, and individuals within those countries.' He said the FBI is currently working to those behind the scams, not just Patel and Liang. 'That's our goal in every one of our cases.' None of the victims were identified in court documents. At least 13 people have died after a building collapsed on a market in Tanzania's largest city. More than 80 people have been rescued following the incident in Dar es Salaam, the country's president said on Sunday. The four-storey building in the city's Kariakoo suburb came down at around 9am on Saturday. Many remain trapped in the structure and are being handed supplies of oxygen, water and glucose through gaps in the rubble. In an address, President Samia Suluhu Hassan said 84 people were rescued and rushed to hospitals. Twenty-six of the injured remain in hospital, she said. She said the government would cover treatment costs and help with burial arrangements. Pictures from the scene showed a huge pile of debris from the destroyed building, the collapse of which also damaged overhead electricity wires. A total of 13 people have died following the collapsed of a building near a market in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Emergency workers on the scene in the Kariakoo suburb of the country's most populous city Emergency workers were shown attempting to rescue people from the rubble. Seven people were lifted out of the building's basement on Sunday morning. Heavy machinery including cranes have been brought in to assist with the operation. Dar es Salaam's regional commissioner Albert Chalamila told The Citizen newspaper that he was 'hopeful' more survivors would be found. Authorities 'wont rest until we have made sure we have been able to rescue each and every person or soul who is trapped in the rubble', Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa. Pictured: The remains of the collapsed building, which appeared to have also damaged overhead electricity wires and adjacent structures An investigation into the cause of the crash is expected to begin once the efforts to rescue survivors are complete. Buildings some African cities are prone to collapses as a result of weak construction standards or lax enforcement. In neighbouring Kenya, a seven storey building collapsed last month in Kahawa West, Nairobi. It's unknown how many people were in the residential block when it fell in on October 20, but police said residents had been evacuated amid warnings the building was weak. A failure to deliver is nothing new in SNP-run Scotland but it is not often that this is a cause for relief. Ministers have yet again delayed their plans for a National Care Service, which would centralise care provision across Scotland. Councils and unions are opposed and the Holyrood opposition parties say it is little more than a power grab by Nationalist ministers. The nations care services are in a pitiful condition but expecting them to get better by putting the Scottish Government in charge is betting on hope over experience. This is the government that transferred untested and Covid-positive patients out of hospitals and into care homes during the pandemic. The longer social care is kept out of their hands, the better for all involved. So, for once, SNP incompetence is welcome, but applying the brakes to one bad idea does nothing to improve the sorry state of care in Scotland. Growing old should be something we look forward to after a full and fulfilling life, not a prospect drenched in dread. We should be confident that services will be there when we need them and that they will be delivered promptly to the highest quality with our wellbeing of paramount importance. Yet talk to Scots over a certain age and they will tell you just what a struggle they go through to get the support they need. Others, not yet at that stage but approaching it, express foreboding at the prospect. They have heard all the horror stories about underfunding, long waiting lists, delayed hospital discharges, and care staff shortages. There are, of course, some very good care homes and some excellent services, but the fears are not without foundation. Care services have been starved of investment, in part because of almost two decades of local government funding cuts inflicted by the SNP, the very people now offering themselves as the answer. Centralising provision under a National Care Service would be like awarding the arsonist the contract to rebuild after the fire. Labour MP Kim Leadbeater is pressing ahead with her Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill Others are kindling fires of their own. At Westminster, Labour MP Kim Leadbeater is pressing ahead with her Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. Its a calm, clinical-sounding name but what it amounts to is euthanasia. A separate consultation into assisted dying is taking place at the Scottish parliament. Ministers have already said the Bill is not in Holyroods powers as issues relating to lethal drugs are reserved to Westminster. Leadbeaters legislation would allow the NHS to dispense suicide drugs to vulnerable patients who say they wish to end their lives. Patients would require a terminal diagnosis and a prognosis of six months or less. Leadbeater considers her proposal robust because it would need the agreement of two doctors and a High Court judge. These checks and balances are intended to reassure us, but we know how these things work. Pass Leadbeaters Bill and the euthanasia lobby will begin campaigning to weaken what safeguards are in it. Terminally ill will be redefined or replaced. The involvement of the judge will disappear. Two doctors will become one, and so forth. We know all this because the slippery slope is not a logical fallacy; it is simply how progressives operate. As I wrote here in September, we would do well to learn from the example of Canada, which has allowed euthanasia to lead it down a dark path. Ottawa introduced medical assistance in dying (MAID) in 2016, with assurances that it would only be for the terminally ill. Within five years, terminally ill was expanded to include serious ailments where death was not reasonably foreseeable. From 2027, it will include people diagnosed with mental illness. In less than a decade, Canada saw a 1,200 per cent increase in MAID deaths, which now account for almost one in every 20 deaths in the country, with one third of patients opting for suicide citing perceived burden on family, friends or caregivers as a reason. If it can happen in Canada, it can most certainly happen here. Proponents of euthanasia try to portray it as a progressive move to make it seem as though only conservative-minded people are opposed. Nothing could be further from the truth. It is no coincidence, I think, that the two most prominent voices opposing the Bill are the two Labour ministers who would have to implement it. As Health Secretary, Wes Streeting would oversee an NHS newly empowered to help patients kill themselves. As Justice Secretary, Shabana Mahmood has responsibility for the courts which would decide who is allowed killer cocktails and who is not and where those accused of having coerced loved ones into suicide would stand trial. Streeting says: I worry about palliative care, end-of-life care, not being good enough to give people a real choice. I worry about the risk of people being coerced into taking this route towards the end of their life. And I also worry, even where youve got really loving families who are very supportive, about those people who think theyve almost got a duty to die to relieve the burden on their loved ones. Mahmood says: I feel that once you cross that line youve crossed it forever. If it just becomes the norm that at a certain age, or with certain diseases, you are now a bit of a burden. Thats a really dangerous position to be in. A dangerous position indeed, especially in Scotland. Here we face the prospect of assisted suicide becoming legal at the very point where the nations care services are in crisis and the SNP government is trying and failing to cobble together an alternative to which the sector is already opposed. This is not a context in which to make life-or-death changes to the law affecting those heavily dependent on care services. To make matters worse, some of Scotlands hospices are warning of an insurmountable funding gap and a risk that, for the first time ever, hospices will have to turn people away. Underfunded care services, hospices closing their doors, and posters in your GP surgery reminding you that suicide is always an option. That is a society that has not merely lost its way but smashed its moral compass to smithereens. It is a judge-led public inquiry waiting to happen. Those of us opposed to euthanasia in principle do not want to see doctors turned into dealers of lethal drugs. We do not believe suicide should be available on prescription. Instead, there should be significant investment in palliative care to guarantee no one is left to suffer so horrendously that suicide seems the only way to escape the pain. Dignity in death is not achieved by handing a desperate person the means to kill themselves. It is achieved by giving them the care, support and medical assistance to ensure their life comes to a natural end with as much comfort and as little suffering as is possible. The terminally ill, the ailing elderly, the severely disabled these are not just categories. These are people, their lives matter, and they deserve better than this. Instead of helping them to end their lives, we should put their quality of life at the centre of what health and care services do. Ministers are desperately drawing up contingency plans to tackle food shortages if farmers strike over inheritance tax changes. Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said the Government would ensure food security if it faces militant action over the plans. Some farmers have warned that they could stop production which could empty supermarket shelves and prompt panic buying. Asked about contingency plans for food security if farmers strike, Ms Haigh told Skys Trevor Phillips: The Department for Environment and Food and Rural Affairs will be setting out plans for the winter and... setting out contingency plans and ensuring that food security is treated as the priority it deserves to be. She said that although the Government recognised the difficult situation that many were in, the IHT changes were fair and proportionate. She ducked questions about why the PM failed to address protesting farmers at Welsh Labour conference on Saturday. Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced changes to inheritance tax at the Budget that will mean farms worth more than 1million will be liable for the charge of 20per cent. She has argued that it will only affect a handful of farms worth more than 3million once other allowances have been used. Farmers protesting against inheritance tax changes in Llandudno, Wales. Contingency plans are being drawn up for food security if farmers strike Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said that plans would be 'set out for the winter' to ensure food security But the National Farmers Union (NFU) said the Governments own figures suggest two-thirds of businesses could be hit. Hundreds of farmers will protest in London tomorrow [TUE] over the changes they say could lead to the break-up of family businesses. Sir Keir said yesterday that while he understood their concerns, the move would not affect the vast majority of farms or farmers. Asked about the protests, he said: They are entitled to express their views. I do understand their concerns. And farming minister Daniel Zeichner urged farmers to look calmly at the Governments plans. But the head of the National Farmers Union (NFU) Tom Bradshaw warned that farmers were feeling angry and betrayed. We have a Government saying food security is a critical part of national security, yet theyve ripped the rug out from that very industry which is going to invest in food security for the future, he told Sky News Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips. However, he said he did not for one moment condone withholding food from supermarkets in protest. Supermarket shelves could be emptied if farmers follow through on threats to stop production Tractors and farm vehicles lined up in a protest outside the Welsh Labour conference in Llandudno That is not an NFU tactic, we do not support emptying supermarket shelves, but I do completely understand the strength of feeling that there is amongst farmers, they feel helpless today, and theyre trying to think of what can they do to try and demonstrate what this means to them, he added. Clive Bailye ((CRCT)), founder of The Farming Forum and one of the organisers of tomorrows rally, warned of strikes, blockades and go-slows if ministers didnt pay attention to farmers anger. He said it had been disappointing to hear the arrogant Prime Minister doubling down at Labours conference in Wales on Saturday where he promised to defend last months Budget all day long. Theres a lot of militancy in the farming community over this, said Mr Bailye, an arable farmer in Staffordshire. If we dont get anything out of Tuesdays rally I can see things getting bad very fast. If the next generation cant afford to continue with the farming way of life then theyve got nothing to lose. That makes them very dangerous - farmers have got the ability to cause economic chaos. He added: Weve seen how European farmers have managed to get their governments to change policy. Farmers gathered on the promenade in Llandudno outside the Welsh Labour conference on November 16 A protester dressed in a cow costume holding a banner reading 'Yes farmer, no Starmer' Talk of a farmers strike is really gathering momentum, and you could see blockades or go-slow protests. If farmers tip away their own milk, theyre the ones who lost out the most - but if they feel theyre going to go out of business then they may go ahead anyway. But we dont want to cause disruption to the public because at the moment theyre on the side of farmers. Mr Bailye predicted that as many as 25,000 angry farmers would descend on the capital tomorrow where they will be addressed by politicians as well as TV star turned farmer Jeremy Clarkson. Gareth Wyn Jones, a Welsh farmer who has been leading calls for a strike, said he would stop supplying his sheep and cattle for a week from today. He predicted shortages of bread, milk and eggs in the coming weeks if ministers dont agree to negotiations. We need to show the Government that if were not going to listen, we will turn off the taps of food production. Everything starts at the farm gate, he told the Mail. While organisers cant yet say how many will heed calls for a strike this week, Mr Wyn Jones said there had been massive support for the plan among Welsh farmers who rallied on Saturday. If ministers arent careful they will have awakened the sleeping giant of farming. A cold wind was blowing in off the sea as staff at Stornoways Tesco opened the store yesterday in a historic break with island tradition. For the first time on Lewis and Harris, where observance of the Sabbath has long been ingrained in the culture, locals were able to shop on a Sunday at the supermarket giant after it opened its doors seven days a week. But the stores opening has highlighted the bitter divisions brought about by the latest advance of secularism in a society where Sundays were once held sacred. Hundreds of shoppers turned up for the opening, to be met by protesters who had gathered to object to Tescos decision taken to balance demand from customers, it said, despite local opposition. More than 40 protesters had turned up before the superstores noon opening its Sunday hours will be noon until 8pm, as a concession and the car park was full. Four Christians, holding placards about keeping the Sabbath holy, mounted a silent protest at the entrance to the store. Their spokesman Mark MacDonald, of the Free Church of Scotland (Continuing), said: It is a very sad day. It is something we are never going to get back. Its gone now. We are losing something so precious as an island. This is like any other weekday now and other shops may follow. A protester outside the store on Stornoway after it opened for the first time on a Sunday John Macleod was one of the first customers through the doors when the shop opened The first customer out of the store was William Macdonald, a retired plumber, who plans to keep his till receipt for a bag of potatoes as a bit of history. He said: I am more than pleased, especially for the tourists. Its good for the islands and its progress. I never intended to be the first customer. But I needed a bag of potatoes. Bus driver John Macleod had a full trolley of shopping. He said: It is well overdue. The church should keep their noses out of peoples business. One woman, who declined to be named, had travelled more than 40 miles for the occasion. Religion is being used to control peoples lives but times have changed, she said. Yesterday, Tesco defended its move, with a spokesman saying: We are confident that the decision to open our Stornoway superstore on Sundays will allow us to balance the demand forseven-day opening while remaining respectful to local traditions and culture. Tesco stressed no staff would be forced to work on Sundays. Stornoways other big supermarket, the Co-op, says it will not open on Sundays, and it could benefit from any boycott of Tesco by angry shoppers. Nearly 200 people protested against Tescos decision at a public meeting earlier this month. Western Isles councillor Gordon Murray and former councillor Charlie Nicolson said dozens of people had already stopped shopping at the Tesco store. Mr Nicolson said: This is not about religion. Its about keeping our Sabbath, yes, but its about keeping our culture and our traditions. Tesco do not care for our community values. There is a large number that have already switched and more will be joining them ... the Co-op is very busy. Reverend Greg MacDonald, of the Free Church of Scotland (Continuing) said he too had heard of a shopper boycott. Its not possible to balance opening the store on a Sunday and the views on the Sabbath, he said. Stornoway Community Council had urged Tesco to reverse its decision but admitted that short of a local referendum being held, it would be difficult to determine exactly where the balance of public opinion lies. Despite the islands tradition of observing the Sabbath, restrictions have relaxed over recent decades. Sunday commercial flights and ferry sailings now operate but, while petrol stations and some restaurants are open on Sundays, many local shops remain closed. A colorized electron microscope image shows mpox particles, red, found within an infected cell, blue, cultured in a laboratory. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases 2023 San Mateo County health officials said a traveler has tested positive for a new strain of mpox, the first such case confirmed in the United States. The person is isolating at home and recovering with mild symptoms, officials said Saturday, adding that there is no evidence the new strain is spreading in San Mateo County or anywhere else in the United States. Officials also said the patient had been exposed to the virus while traveling to Africa, where there is an outbreak of the new strain in the central and eastern regions of the continent. The patient was treated in San Mateo County, though health officials did not specify whether the person is a resident. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A global outbreak of the clade II mpox variant caused the World Health Organization to declare a public health emergency in 2022. Spread primarily through skin-to-skin contact, including intimate and sexual activity, mpoxs symptoms commonly include rashes or lesions. Spread of the virus in the U.S. slowed quickly as access to vaccines and medication expanded. Sir Keir Starmer was last night accused of kowtowing to China as he prepared to cosy up to the countrys authoritarian leader later today. The Prime Minister signalled a thaw in relations as he said he will take a pragmatic approach towards Beijings communist regime. Sir Keir will become the first British Prime Minister in six years to hold direct talks with President Xi Jinping as he tries to boost trade with the worlds second biggest economy. But critics including sanctioned former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith accused him of a betrayal of those who have suffered under the repressive regime. Relations between the two countries have been in a deep freeze following Chinas crackdown on democracy protests in Hong Kong and its brutal treatment of the Uyghur population in Xinjiang, which Labour once labelled a genocide. Speaking to reporters while travelling to the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro yesterday, the PM said it was important to improve relations and trade with China. We are both global players, global powers, both permanent members of the security council and of the G20, he said. 'Chinas economy is obviously the second biggest in the world. Its one of our biggest trading partners and therefore I will be having serious, pragmatic discussions with the president when I meet him. Sir Keir Starmer flying to Rio de Janeiro for the G20 summit. The PM has been accused of cosying up to China as he said he would take a 'pragmatic' approach towards Beijing President Xi Jinping at the Economic Leaders Meeting in Peru on November 16. The Chinese leader will hold direct talks with a British Prime Minister for the first time in six years when he meets Sir Keir Asked whether he wanted to improve relations with Beijing, he added: Given the size of the economy, it is very important that we have a pragmatic and serious relationship and thats what I intend to pursue. Sir Keir ducked questions about Chinas actions in Xinjiang, saying he had previously given a whole series of answers in terms of my position. But he added: I do think its important that we have serious engagement which is what I will be pursuing in my bilateral at the G20. Last night, Sir Iain accused the PM of kowtowing to the worlds greatest threat to the democratic global order. He said: This is very sad. Those suffering genocide and slave labour under the brutal hands of Xi will feel betrayed. Starmer will be seen as weak by Xi who will see him as coming to him in a kowtow begging for trade. Alicia Kearns, shadow security spokesman and China critic, accused Sir Keir of flip-flopping on foreign policy as he vowed to help Ukraine while befriending a country aligning with Russia. She said: You cannot [say] you want allies to redouble their efforts with Ukraine and at the same time promise security cooperation with those working against those same goals. Sir Iain Duncan Smith (pictured) accused the PM of a betrayal of those who have suffered under the repressive regime Foreign Secretary David Lammy with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing last month She added that it was quite something that the PM was holding a meeting with President Xi in the same week that Jimmy Lai, an imprisoned pro-democracy media tycoon and British citizen, faced a show trial in Hong Kong. Sir Keir was the Labour leader in 2021 when it backed a Commons motion calling for Chinas conduct in Xinjiang to be formally branded genocide. Posting on Twitter, he said at the time: Labour condemns the persecution of the Uyghur community in China. We will be supporting amendments in Parliament today to ensure Britain never turns a blind eye to genocide. A few months later, Sir Keirs Labour party appealed to Tory MPs to block ministers signing trade deals with countries implicated in genocide. It came after Dominic Raab said the UK needed to be flexible when making trade deals with other countries. Posting on Twitter, Sir Keir said: Shameful that the Government plans to reward countries who commit human rights abuses with trade deals. Were urging Conservative MPs to join Labour tomorrow in sending a united message that genocide can never be met with indifference, impunity or inaction. Last year, now Foreign Secretary David Lammy who flew to the Chinese capital for talks last month said Labour would act multilaterally with our partners to seek recognition of Chinas actions as genocide through the international courts. But Labour has been silent on the issue since the election. Any attempt to cosy up to China will spark fury at Westminster, where seven Parliamentarians remain sanctioned by Beijing for speaking out about Chinas grim human rights record. They include Sir Iain, former security minister Tom Tugendhat and veteran Labour peer Helena Kennedy. Sir Keir is expected to use talks with Joe Biden to urge him to approve a fast track of 17billion of loans to support Ukraine's war effort It will also sound alarms about any possibility of Chinas involvement in the UKs critical national infrastructure. The last government effectively banned new Chinese involvement in sectors such as nuclear power and the 5G network. World leaders are gathering in Rio, where discussions are expected to focus on Ukraine and Donald Trumps return to the White House. The PM is expected to use talks with Joe Biden to urge the outgoing US President to fast track the approval of 17billion of loans to support Ukraines war effort, amid fears Mr Trump will block further aid. Sir Keir said he would urge world leaders to shore up support as the conflict approaches its thousandth day tomorrow. He added he would not follow German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in opening talks with Vladimir Putin. And he said he was concerned by North Koreas decision to deploy troops to support Putins forces, which he warned has serious implications. A man who jumped into a car and drove away with a five-year-old inside the vehicle insists he did the 'right thing' by teaching the boy's father a lesson. Duaraj Karishna Ramanujam, 42, pulled into the Shell Service Station on the Princes Highway at Officer, south-east Melbourne, at about 8.45am on Saturday. He spotted a five-year-old boy sitting alone in a grey ute after his father had run inside to grab a slab of water while leaving the vehicle running. Mr Ramanujam hopped off his motorbike and jumped into the ute and drove away with the child still inside the vehicle. The 42-year-old took aim at the father for leaving his child in the car and claimed he was trying to send him a message. 'It's not a big crime right? I'm saving a child, mate,' he told 9News. 'He left the car and the child with the engine on which is not a good thing to do. He should realise his stupidity.' The father came outside the servo just two minutes after he'd left the car and saw it had been taken. Duaraj Karishna Ramanujam, 42, pulled into the Shell Service Station on the Princes Highway at Officer, south-east Melbourne, at about 8.45am on Saturday Mr Ramanujam hopped off his motorbike and jumped into the ute and drove away with the child still inside the vehicle He rushed inside and used the business' phone to call his mobile, which he'd left in the ute. Mr Ramanujam said he intended to take the child to the police station before the boy's father called him and the pair agreed to meet at Pakenham Police Station. Both the child's parents met Mr Ramanujam at the police station, where Mr Ramanujam was surprised to be met with 'distrust' and put in handcuffs. He told police there had been a misunderstanding as he'd simply wanted to teach the father a lesson about child safety. Mr Ramanujam was released after speaking with Cardinia Crime Investigation Unit detectives. He claimed he was using 'common sense' by taking the child and insisted it was the 'right thing to do'. 'My advice to them is to consider their action that led to these consequences,' he said. A leading feminist writer 'sent police packing' when they visited her home to investigate one of her tweets as a 'hate crime'. Julie Bindel said she was told by two Metropolitan Police officers that a 'transgender man' from Holland had reported one of her social media posts. They asked her to voluntarily attend the local police station to make a statement in an incident similar to the case of Telegraph columnist Allison Pearson. She is being investigated by Essex Police over a deleted tweet posted a year ago being treated as a possible offence of 'inciting racial hatred online'. Ms Bindel like Ms Pearson said she was given limited details about the complaint. Police would not reveal which tweet prompted it, the identity of the complainant or what type of hate crime was being investigated, Ms Bindel said. So the author and journalist, a prominent critic of gender ideology, refused to co-operate. Julie Bindel 'sent police packing' when they visited her home to investigate one of her tweets as a 'hate crime '. She said she was told by two Metropolitan Police officers that a ' transgender man' from Holland had reported one of her social media posts Police asked Ms Bindel to voluntarily attend the local police station to make a statement in an incident similar to the case of Telegraph columnist Allison Pearson (pictured) Recalling the visit on a Sunday in 2019 in an article for The Sunday Telegraph, Ms Bindel said: 'I was able to send the two officers packing, without their visit even spoiling my lunch. 'The officers left looking a little bewildered. I did have a sense that they understood what a ridiculous mission they have been sent on. I advised that they could better use their time investigating rape and domestic violence.' Ms Bindel, who also occasionally writes for the Mail, said she had a phone call from one of the officers the next day telling her that the investigation had been dropped. Describing the visit as 'Orwellian', she said: 'Police have limited time to investigate actual crime but are instead being tasked with ticking off the likes of me for daring to tweet that 'trans women are NOT women' (or whatever the person in Holland had objected to). 'I know the law on these issues and am well aware they had no chance in getting the Crown Prosecution Service to press charges. 'Nevertheless, I thought about the women who have lost jobs, been hounded out of college courses, friendship groups and university societies, as well as those who would have found it distressing to be threatened with a hate crime conviction for no good reason. 'A criminal record is serious and can have a terrible effect on a person's livelihood, reputation and self-esteem. 'Police coming after those of us who do nothing more than speak the truth about gender madness and refuse to bend the knee to the crazy cultists are doing a massive public disservice.' The Metropolitan Police has no information about this incident but a spokesman said: 'We take all reports of hate crime extremely seriously and are committed to investigating allegations thoroughly and impartially where they are made. 'Our approach seeks to balance the right to free speech with our duty to protect individuals and our communities.' The Prime Ministers latest jaunt abroad to Brazil is the 15th time he has been out of the country since being elected in July. Sir Keir Starmers four-day trip to Rio for the G20 - where he said his focus is delivering a better future for Britain - means he will have ventured outside of Britain for more than three weeks in total since summer. This includes time in Ireland, Italy, Berlin, Brussels, Budapest, Washington DC, France, Azerbaijan and a five-day trip to Samoa. He also flew to New York for the UN General Assembly after the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool in September. In the same period, MPs have only sat for 34 days in the House of Commons to work on legislation and delivering the governments agenda. Overall, 16 of the Prime Ministers 136 days in No 10 will have been spent on planes. Prior to the Rio trip, this resulted in an estimated 920,065kg of CO2 being emitted by the Airbus A321 usually used by the Prime Minister. This figure could breach one million kilograms by the time he returns from Brazil. The Prime Minister has been forced to defend his constant jet-setting, suggesting he prefers to meet world leaders in person rather than talk over the phone. The question is what am I spending my time doing, not where I am, he said earlier this month. Sir Keir Starmer travelling to Rio de Janeiro for the G20 summit. The PM will have spent over three weeks outside Britain since taking office in the summer Beach Leme and Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Sir Keir has said the focus of his four-day trip will be delivering a 'better future' for Britain I think the best way to build good relations that are based on trust and respect is face to face. Im a big believer in face-to-face engagement. Questions have been raised over Sir Keirs travel in the early months of his premiership, especially after he said he preferred networking at the World Economic Forum in Davos to operating in Westminster, which he branded a tribal shouting place. The Prime Ministers appearance at COP29 in Baku was an anomaly amongst world leaders - others such as US President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron and under-pressure German Chancellor Olaf Scholz declined to attend. Sir Keir did not address their absences when asked. He said: We are here to show leadership, we are here because I see this not only as one of the most important challenges we face globally but one of the most important opportunities. No 10 insiders have suggested that the Prime Minister is front-loading his international trips and will be more sparing with his travel as his time in office goes on. Sir Keir speaking at the COP29 climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijan. The PM's appearance at the event was in contrast to the absence of many prominent world leaders including Joe Biden and Emmanuel Macron Energy and Net Zero Secretary Ed Miliband addressing COP29. The UK's delegation to Baku included 354 Government officials or ministers, despite rhetoric about Net Zero and slashing carbon emissions. But he has also been accused of hypocrisy after it emerged that the UK sent 470 delegates to the COP29 summit, despite the Prime Ministers rhetoric about reaching Net Zero and slashing carbon emissions. The British contingent at COP29 included seven government ministers, eight private secretaries, four backbench MPs and four peers, according to the Mail on Sunday. More than 100 civil servants from Ed Milibands Energy department are registered to attend, along with more than 30 officials from No 10. This compared with the 405 from the US, 111 from India, 437 from Italy 325 from Germany and 115 from France. Overall, they racked up an estimated 338 tons of CO2. Labour MP Graham Stringer said: There are more private jets and large jets going to Baku than anywhere else at the moment. Its a complete waste of money. They dont seem to have noticed that although they claim leadership of Net Zero, nobody is following. It would have been a bigger commitment to reducing carbon dioxide if theyd sent [Miliband] and nobody else. Scotland Yard was under fire last night from a former Tory minister after failing to intervene when pro-Palestinian campaigners called for Zionists to be 'put down'. Lord Goldsmith claimed 'violent groups' have become 'untouchable and emboldened' after officers failed to do anything during a demonstration on Friday. Blasting the Metropolitan Police's 'basic cowardice and stupidity', the former environment minister and London mayor candidate waded into the 'two-tier policing' row, adding that 'people's patience is wearing very thin'. Lord Goldsmith spoke out after video from an anti-Israel demonstration in Swiss Cottage, North London, on Friday night showed police officers standing by as a female demonstrator told a crowd: 'These people are terminally deranged and the sickness is Zionism. And it's incurable so they just need to be put down perhaps.' Responding to the video on X (formerly Twitter), an account for the local Metropolitan Police division wrote: 'The language in this video is unacceptable. Officers are conducting a thorough investigation but we understand and acknowledge concerns raised about the apparent lack of immediate action by officers present. 'We are reviewing the circumstances to understand what happened.' But Lord Goldsmith, 49, said police were simply too frightened to arrest pro-Palestinian demonstrators, writing on social media: 'There's nothing to investigate. 'It's all there, clear as daylight and unarguable police (and CPS) policy is two-tier. We see it every single week. Police are under fire for failing to act as pro-Palestinian demonstrators called for Zionists to be 'put down' at a protest in central London on Friday night Lord Goldsmith criticised 'two-tier' policing policies and said 'basic cowardice and stupidity' was behind the failure to take action Lord Goldsmith hit out at 'stupid and self defeating' policy which he said is making threatening groups 'untouchable and emboldened' 'It is partly about prejudice and politicisation, but mostly it is the result of basic cowardice and stupidity. 'Why are certain crowds allowed to wave terror flags, chant songs of genocide, wave swastikas? Because stopping them might 'inflame' things. Because of 'community tensions'. 'In other words, the more violent, aggressive, threatening groups become, the safer they are. They become untouchable and emboldened.' The video on Friday night was taken by the campaign group Stop the Hate which has worked to expose antisemitism and terrorist support on pro-Palestine demonstrations which started after the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7 last year. For most of the year there have been weekly pro-Palestine demonstrations in Swiss Cottage on Friday evenings because it is near the home of the Israeli ambassador. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered outside Jewish community centre JW3 last month while the venue was hosting a conference on the future of Israel and the Middle East Protesters at the entrance to the centre holding a large banner with the message 'Stop arming Israel, stop the genocide, save Palestine The same group of protesters were criticised earlier this month for targeting a Jewish community centre in which delegates at peace conference were called 'baby-killer' and 'apartheid lover'. A spokesman for Stop the Hate said: 'That multiple officers saw nothing problematic with a speech calling for Zionists to be put down is a sad indictment of the state of policing in London. 'We have been warning for months that police inaction on antisemitism was creating an environment of impunity that is emboldening antisemites to target a Jewish area, creating serious security issues for the local Jewish community. How many hate crimes and terrorism offences need to be committed at a protest for it to be shut down?' The Metropolitan Police refused to comment further. Masked men scaled a 6ft fence to sneak onto the Windsor Castle estate as the Prince and Princess of Wales slept in their cottage just a stone's throw away. The two men reportedly used a stolen truck to smash through a security gate before stealing farm vehicles and driving off in a pick-up and on a quad bike that they took from a barn at Shaw Farm. Just five minutes away, William and Kate and their children George, 11, Charlotte, nine and Louis, six, are thought to have been peacefully asleep. The now-wrecked gate is the nearest exit to Adelaide Cottage and the family are often seen using it to come and go. It comes after armed officers were removed from the public entrances to Windsor Castle. But the officers are still thought to be present, patrolling the grounds of the estate. A source said the masked thieves must have been 'watching Windsor Castle for some time'. Masked men scaled 6ft fences to sneak onto the Windsor Castle estate as the Prince and Princess of Wales slept nearby William and Kate and their children George, 11, Charlotte, nine and Louis, six, are thought to have been asleep It comes after armed officers were removed from the public entrances to Windsor Castle They told The Sun: 'There are alarms at Windsor Castle but the first time anyone knew there was a break-in was when they crashed through the security barrier at Shaw Farm Gate exit. 'It was a Sunday night on a school week so the young princess and princess would have been tucked in bed at Adelaide Cottage, just around the corner but still in the grounds.' The King was in Scotland and Camilla was said to be in India at the time of the raid. A spokesman for Thames Valley Police said: 'At around 11.45pm on Sunday October 13, we received a report of burglary at a property on Crown Estate land near to the A308 in Windsor. 'Offenders entered a farm building and made off with a black Isuzu pick-up and a red quad bike. They then made off towards the Old Windsor/Datchet area. 'No arrests have been made at this stage and an investigation is ongoing.' The Wales family moved from Kensington Palace to Adelaide Cottage, located within Windsor Great Park, in the summer of 2022. Their preference was for a residence that required no renovation or added security arrangements. In contrast, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle spent 2.6m fixing up nearby Frogmore Cottage. The Wales family moved from Kensington Palace to Adelaide Cottage, located within Windsor Great Park, in the summer of 2022 Armed police officers on guard at the Henry VIII Gate at Windsor Castle Extra security measures including a ring of 10ft steel fences surround the town gate entrance of the castle in Windsor, pictured last year Adelaide Cottage on the Windsor Estate, where the Wales family resides Additionally, four bedrooms were deemed sufficient since there are no live-in staff members. Instead, aides commute to the property as and when their services are needed. Nestled at the heart of the Crown Estate's private 655-acre royal park, Adelaide Cottage was built in 1831 as a retreat for William IV's wife Queen Adelaide of Saxe-Meiningen. It was also known to be a favourite home of Queen Victoria, as she frequently enjoyed taking her breakfast there. However, the most famous former resident has to be the late Princess Margaret's ex-lover, Group Captain Peter Townsend, whose affair with the Queen's sister caused a national scandal. The cottage underwent major renovations in 2015, which meant that Prince William and Kate did not need to shell out millions in remodelling the house. Adelaide Cottage still boasts original features, including a marble Graeco-Egyptian fireplace and a principal bedroom, with a coved ceiling featuring gilded dolphins and rope ornament reused from the Royal yacht Royal George. The procession to Windsor Castle during the late Queen's funeral began from the Shaw Farm gate, which has since been replaced after being mowed down during the raid. Other Windsor Castle security scares include one which occurred on Christmas Day 2021, when a crossbow intruder climbed a fence and claimed he wanted to kill the Queen. Jaswant Singh Chail, 23, was jailed for nine years for treason. MailOnline contacted Kensington Palace for comment. Women interested in a six-figure career driving Melbourne's trains will find it easier to get a foot in the door as the city's rail bosses push for more females to take up the job. But so concerned was Metro Trains about its push for more women, it took its case to Victoria's civil umpire in anticipation of a human rights fight. However the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) last week ruled it had nothing to worry about, paving the way for the rail giant to target more female employees. Daily Mail Australia can reveal Metro Trains went to VCAT to apply for an exemption under the Equal Opportunity Act which would allow it to target women in its 'Infrastructure Delivery Team advertising and recruitment program'. In tribunal documents obtained by Daily Mail Australia, Metro Trains sought permission to target women in its advertising and recruitment program so as to increase the number in its broader pool of applicants. 'A discernible group can be identified with a particular attribute, in this instance, females who wish to apply for train driver positions,' it was stated. 'The purpose of the conduct here is to provide a means by which more females will have greater opportunities to apply for and be considered for recruitment for train driver roles at Metro Trains.' The company has previously been issued with exemptions from the Act to hold recruitment campaigns for women for particular roles. The estimated total pay for a train driver is $155,000 per year in the Melbourne area, with an average salary of $110,000 per year. Metro Trains wants more women driving trains in Melbourne Metro Trains has made no secret of its desire to employ more women, telling the tribunal the rail industry was traditionally viewed as a male dominated industry, which had 'led to a gender imbalance in the rail industry globally'. In information provided to the tribunal, Metro Trains revealed its workforce in August was 31.85 percent female. 'The breakdown of this percentage is 2,281 female employees out of a total of 7,162 employees,' it stated. Of the 2,281 female employees, just 597 out of a total of 1,579 drive trains. Metro Trains proudly spruiks its dedication to females on its website, declaring it has been recognised in the top 101 workplaces for women. The company aims to greatly increase the number of women working in its Infrastructure Delivery Team Department, which is a little over 16 percent female from 314 employees. Of those, 9.24 percent work on the Track Maintenance Team, and 9.2 percent on its Electrical Network Team. The tribunal heard Metro Trains had a financial interest in employing more women due to its franchise agreement with the Victorian Government, which included 'gender targets' in its contract. 'A failure to meet a target may lead to a financial penalty for Metro Trains,' tribunal documents stated. In striking out the application, VCAT member Stuart Webb determined Metro Trains was acting in 'good faith' with its plans. 'Given the low representation of females at Metro Trains, the proposed conduct is likely to improve the opportunities for female applicants to be identified and put forward for employment consideration,' he stated. 'Given the current percentages of females in this particular role, the proposed conduct is proportionate. 'The justification for the proposed conduct here is self-evident from the statistics. The currently low numbers of females employed as drivers at Metro Trains means that the conduct is unlikely to go beyond achieving greater parity. I am satisfied that the proposed conduct is justified.' Perks for all employees include discounted gym and health funds, discounted banking services, superannuation and financial planning advice, and free Myki travel. Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission did not seek to intervene in the company's application. Edward VIII was the British royal born to be King, and spent less than a year on the throne. His wife, Wallis Simpson, was an American socialite who had already been married and divorced. The former monarch's devotion to her led to him abdicating on December 10, 1936. Body language expert Judi James has revealed to MailOnline how Ms Simpson was 'the most influential' of the pair. Despite Edward being the royal, Ms James explained how Wallis's gestures and interactions made her the more powerful partner in their relationship. 'In an era of soft perms, curvaceous figures and full, flowing skirts, Wallis's severe styling and her rigid body language defined her as a woman of imposing strength of mind and voracious self-control,' Ms James said. Read on below as MailOnline reveals more of the body language expert's perspective on the couple who spent years in exile together. Wallis Simpson and Edward VIII on their first wedding anniversary in France in 1938 Wallis's 'Amazonian pose' When they wed on June 3, 1937, none of Edward's family attended, nor did they look like a happy couple. Even the photographer, Cecil Beaton, commented how Edward had an 'essentially sad' look in his eyes. The wedding photos looked solemn and rigid, and revealed a lot about what the couple were going through at the time. It came a month after the coronation of Edward's brother, George VI - a glittering ceremony attended by 8,000 guests. Wallis's second divorce - from shipbroker Ernest Aldrich Simpson - had also only been finalised the month before. In the weeks leading up to his wedding, the Duke had been left furious by King George's refusal to grant Wallis the status of Her Royal Highness. Their matching poses often signaled a solidarity with one another, according to Ms James, though 'it was often Wallis leading or dominating the pose as though it were her own construction'. 'Even on their wedding day, it was Wallis standing slightly to the front of their poses, eyes boring straight into the camera lens while Edward lurked beside her,' the body language expert added. Wallis with Edward on their wedding day on June 3, 1937. The former monarch folds his arms while his wife stands straight In many of the wedding photographs, Edward is stood with his arms crossed or behind his back, barely touching his new wife. Ms James suggested it could be 'an infantile "best behaviour" gesture, keeping the hands out of any trouble'. While in some, Wallis stands straight in 'an Amazonian pose, military and "to attention", ready to protect, fight or strand her ground,' Ms James said. The body language expert revealed how Edward's arm-folding was 'quite revolutionary or even a rebellious step for any royal having a more formal photo taken.' Given the controversy surrounding their marriage, Ms James suggested it could be a 'barrier ritual' that the former monarch used to protect himself from the judgment of the public. 'There might have been a desire to avoid flaunting any sexual or even more romantic side to their relationship which would have shocked people even more,' Ms James added. The couple pictured together outside the Government House in the Bahamas in 1942 'Gentleman's hand' The couple's non-tactile poses featured in many photographs of them throughout their marriage. Edward often adopted a stance where he would put his arm flat behind Wallis and created an appearance of closeness but did not involve any touch. Called 'the gentleman's hand,' according to Ms James, 'it normally implies a showmance when in a hug ritual there is no actual body touch with the fingers'. When they were photographed together on board the Queen Elizabeth, docking in Southampton in 1947, Edward used the 'Gentleman's Hand' pose. Wallis can be stood rigidly with her arms either side of her, similar to the 'Amazonian pose' at their wedding. Edward leans back slightly, allowing Wallis to be positioned towards the front, with his arm resting on the railing behind her. In another example, the couple are in the Bahamas in the 1940s, outside of the Government house. Edward has his arm resting against a wall and they lean in towards one another, somewhat affectionately, smiling. Edward leaning behind his wife in a 'gentleman's hand' gesture while she stands slightly in front on board the Queen Elizabeth, docking at Southampton in 1947 The couple lean in and smile at one another while Edward does the 'gentleman's hand' pose again in the Bahamas Wallis and Edward with their two pet dogs, the former monarch has his arm in the 'gentleman's hand' pose 'Limpet hold' The couple were photographed touching or showing physical affection so little that the formality between them led to rumours 'that there was actually a lack of attraction between them,' Ms James revealed. But there were a few instances of the pair being snapped with their arms linked. Wallis clutched her purse in one hand and put her other arm through her husband's. The clasp was described as a 'limpet hold,' by Ms James, which was 'tight and close'. Wallis and Edward were on holiday in 1954, the American socialite is holding her husband's arm in a 'limpet hold' Arm touch In a moment 'that seemed to define their relationship,' according to Ms James, Wallis displayed a 'restraining or controlling gesture' towards her husband. Edward and Wallis were in Yugoslavia on a holiday cruise in December, 1936. As the former monarch leaned across to steady himself to get off the boat, Wallis 'put her hand on his in an unusual touch ritual'. 'She still had her bag hanging off her own thumb and her hand on his arm was held flat, making this more of a restraining/controlling gesture than one of affection,' the body language expert added. Edward reaching his arm forward as Wallis places her hand on his in December, 1936 'Lowering power pats' While Wallis showed her husband tactile affection in some photos, Ms James suggests 'they appear to project a very powerful message of a status and power, balanced in Walliss favour'. At a New Year party in January, 1952, Wallis was pictured as she leant in and touched her husband's head - both of them appeared to be smiling. In another instance in 1958 - as the couple travelled around America on a liner - both smiled as Wallis appeared to pat his hair. Though instead of the hair pats being romantic gestures, Ms James suggests they 'look like semi-maternal gestures'. The body language expert added: 'There is even one photo where it looks as though she is stroking a well-behaved puppy. 'This should be lowering behaviour to a man who would have been King but his smiles suggest he is rather happy with the ritual and with allowing her to be Queen Bee.' Wallis touching her husband's head at a New Year party in January, 1952, both appear to be smiling Both smile as Wallis appears to pat Edward's hair in 1958 'Double-bagging ritual' The couple attended multiple dances together, with Wallis dressed in stylish gowns and Edward in smart suits. They were photographed during a party in New York in 1951. Wallis was pictured as she leant away from her husband, her face pointed outwards and chatted to a nearby couple. This is an example of a 'double-bagging ritual,' according to Ms James. She added: 'She dances with him but chats to others as though signaling he's not quite enough company for her.' Edward was turned slightly more towards his wife but still looked outwards. Wallis pictured chatting to a nearby couple with her husband at a party in New York in 1951 Wallis and Edward dancing together at the December Ball in the Hotel Plaza in 1946 Dogs The couple never had children together, but did have pet dogs. There are multiple photographs of them holding their pugs together. In one example from 1953, Wallis and Edward can be seen smiling animatedly while the former monarch holds the pup, called Trooper. Ms James said: 'Interestingly some of Walliss most tactile, warm, smiling, affectionate body language behaviours are when she is holding her own dogs.' When dating a member of the Royal Family, it's well known that the most important rule is to not speak to the Press about the relationship. So when Meghan was given the opportunity to do an interview with Vanity Fair magazine in July 2017, her approach was carefully agreed beforehand. The Duchess of Sussex was told to steer well clear of such controversial subjects as racial politics, new president Donald Trump but most importantly of all - her increasingly serious relationship with Prince Harry. However, when the magazine ran with the headline 'Wild About Harry' on its cover - focusing on her relationship with the prince rather than her work as an actor, activist and philanthropist - the Palace was stunned. In what has later been seen as a warning sign that Meghan was prepared to not only ignore royal protocol but throw it out of the window entirely, she had talked extensively about her and the prince's 'love story'. After seeing the cover, the duchess responded by phoning her PR firm and 'hysterically' telling them of the Palace's fury, while also claiming the headline was racist due to its similarities to a song in a 1939 film which used blackface, according to royal authors. Commentators have suggested the episode showed Meghan 'would do things her own way,' and 'would not be constrained or restricted by protocol or precedent'. Here MailOnline looks back on the 2017 Vanity Fair interview that broke the tight-lipped silence that had been standard procedure for Windsor girlfriends until that point - and why it was a sign of things to come. Vanity Fair ran with the headline 'Wild About Harry' on its cover in 2017 The Palace was said to be stunned by the interview, which focused on her relationship with the prince, whom she is pictured with in 2017 Meghan and Harry's first public appearance together at Invictus Games in Toronto in 2017 The couple with Queen Elizabeth II in July 2018. For her interview with Vanity Fair the year before, Meghan was reportedly told by Harry not to disclose their relationship When Harry and Meghan started dating in July 2016 they were a fiercely private couple. They had been spotted in public together on a handful of occasions, with Harry allegedly making secret trips to pick her up from the airport on her visits to the UK. And even once the news broke of their relationship in October, they remained out of the spotlight, preferring to keep a relatively low profile. But as the relationship developed over the months, the royal couple wanted a way to launch Meghan properly with the public. A full front page feature on the front of the glossy Vanity Fair felt like the best way to put across who the widely rumoured future wife of Harry was in a confident, proactive active way. Tom Bower, journalist and author of Revenge: Meghan, Harry and the war between the Windsors, wrote she was 'ecstatic' when she was asked to appear on the cover of the magazine's September 2017 issue. Keleigh Thomas Morgan, a partner at Meghan's PR firm Sunshine Sachs, organised the interview, which was conducted by Sam Kashner - a long-standing contributing editor at Vanity Fair, who admitted before the interview that he had no idea who Meghan was. According to Mr Bower, Mr Kashner was told Meghan was under strict orders from both Harry and her PR firm to steer clear of sensitive subjects. Prince Harry was first snapped with Meghan at an exclusive polo event in Ascot in May 2017 Prince William and Prince Harry at Pippa Middleton's and James Matthews wedding in Englefield in May 2017 In an extraordinarily candid interview with the BBC following their engagement in November 2017, Harry promised he and Meghan will start a family' in the near future The interview was done at Meghan's home. Mr Bower says Mr Kashner was uneasy knowing that Meghan had been told to be careful with what she told him. 'Both knew that a lot was riding on the interview, and both understood that the critical issue of Harry had been vetoed,' he writes in his book. 'Meghan spoke, he realised, knowing that she had the winning ticket but avoiding giving an impression of triumphalism.' After first discussing Meghan's speech at the United Nations and a letter she sent to Procter and Gamble as an 11-year-old requesting that they change a slogan promoting washing-up liquid that was deemed sexist, Mr Kashner asked her about Harry. To his surprise, Mr Bower wrote, Meghan replied: 'We're a couple. We're in love.' Meghan said: 'I'm sure there will be a time when we will have to come forward and present ourselves and have stories to tell, but I hope what people will understand is that this is our time. 'This is for us. It's part of what makes it so special, that it's just ours. But we're happy. Personally, I love a great love story.' When asked how she felt about the media frenzy that erupted after their relationship was revealed the previous year, Meghan replied: 'It has its challenges, and it comes in waves some days it can feel more challenging than others. 'And right out of the gate it was surprising the way things changed. But I still have this support system all around me, and, of course, my boyfriend's support.' Meghan won an army of new fans in Nottingham in December 2017 during her first public engagement with Harry Harry and Meghan were pictured for the first time with Prince William and Kate Middleton at Sandringham for the Christmas Day church service in 2017 Prince Harry and Meghan in New Zealand on a royal tour of a national park in 2018 Tom Bower's book Revenge: Meghan, Harry and the war between the Windsors Mr Bower is an acclaimed author who has published a series of biographies She added: 'I can tell you that at the end of the day I think it's really simple. We're two people who are really happy and in love.' Meghan also divulged that she tries not to read stories about herself in the Press and on social media, saying: 'The people who are close to me anchor me in knowing who I am. The rest is noise.' She added: 'Nothing about me changed. I'm still the same person that I am, and I've never defined myself by my relationship.' Pre-publication copies of Vanity Fair's September 2017 edition were released to Megan's PR agency and Buckingham Palace. It featured a glamorous picture of the actress on the cover, all hair and freckles, with the bold headline proclaiming loudly 'She's Just Wild About Harry'. Mr Bower wrote that her unexpected openness took the Palace by surprise. 'Like a thunderclap, the interview triggered sensational reactions: Meghan had used her relationship with Harry to promote herself,' he says. 'The Hollywoodisation of the Royal Family had sealed Meghan's fate as Harry's fiancee.' According to Mr Bower, within hours of the pre-publication release, Meghan rang Ken Sunshine and Keleigh Thomas Morgan telling them of the Palace's 'fury'. She said the agency should have had her comments about her relationship with Harry removed, raising fears she would fire them over the cover, and questions were asked about why there was not more about her philanthropy and activism in the piece. Mr Bower reported that the piece omitted comments on this because Vanity Fair researchers were unable to prove her claims were accurate. The Duchess of Sussex at the Queen's state funeral at Westminster Abbey in 2022 Harry and Meghan (pictured at the Queen's state funeral at Westminster Abbey) made the decision to leave The Firm in early 2020 The Princess and Prince of Wales and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex walk step out together to greet members of the public at Windsor Castle in Berkshire following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022 Meghan, Harry, King Charles and Queen Camilla attend Elizabeth II's funeral in 2022 Specifically, the magazine couldn't establish for sure that she had played a role in persuading Procter and Gamble to change their slogan, nor could they independently prove she received a reply after writing to then-first lady Hillary Clinton. According to Mr Bower, Mr Kashner later recalled: 'She complained because she wasn't presented in the way she wanted. She demanded the media do what she expected. I felt manipulated.' Mr Sunshine reportedly told Vanity Fair's editor that he would have to 'deal with the Queen on this'. He was told that Meghan only got the cover 'because of who she was likely to marry,' Bower wrote, and not on her own merit. Meghan was also enraged because she believed the headline to be racist, according to royal author Valentine Low. In his book Courtiers: The Hidden Power Behind The Crown, he wrote: 'Meghan hated it. And she was furious with Keleigh Thomas Morgan. 'And she was looking to throw blame in every possible direction, despite it having been a positive piece. 'She did not like the photographs. She thought the story was negative. She was upset that it was about Harry, not about her.' 'And the clincher? It was racist. What upset her was the headline. She and Harry pointed out that the song, "I'm Just Wild About Harry", had been performed by Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney as a blackface number in the 1939 film Babes In Arms. The pair accused the magazine cover of racism because of a 1939 blackface song by Micky Rooney and Judy Garland called 'I'm Just Wild About Harry' Harry and Meghan at St Paul's Cathedral for the Queen's Thanksgiving mass in June 2022 Meghan would go on to break more royal rules when she sat down in March 2021 for a tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey The bombshell claims made by Meghan in the interview are still reverberating three years on 'They [Harry and Meghan] tried to get it changed online, because [they thought] it had been racially motivated,' said a source. The Vanity Fair cover was seen as evidence by many royal watchers at the time that Meghan and Harry were soon to be walking down the aisle. But it also raised eyebrows that Meghan would not be willing to play by the strict and well-established rules of the Royal Family. She would go on to break them in a high-profile Oprah interview, a tell-all Netflix series and in numerous interviews. Writing for Au News, royal commentator Daniela Elser said that in the interview, Meghan broke the mould of 'tight-lipped silence' that had been the standard procedure for Windsor wives and girlfriends. She said: 'Rather, with her Vanity Fair appearance, she didn't so much break that mould as chicly smash it to smithereens, trouncing the unspoken omerta that royal girlfriends had thus far diligently adhered to.' Ms Elser wrote that royal courtiers should have 'paid much, much more attention to that magazine moment in 2017,' asking: 'Were the warning signs there, even then, that the introduction of Meghan into the royal world was never, ever going to be smooth sailing?' She claimed that the magazine cover story was the 'first major signal that things were serious and altar-bound.' The Vanity Fair article suggested Meghan 'would do things her own way,' and 'would not be constrained or restricted by protocol or precedent', she claimed. She concluded: 'Meghan walked into the Palace as not so much an open book but an open, glossy magazine feature story. It's just such a shame that no one spent more time reading it.' It's the focal point of kitchens around the world. But it turns out that you've probably been organising your fridge wrong. Experts from Which? have revealed the correct spot for every single item in your fridge, including raw meat, leftovers, and condiments. What's more, they've finally settled the debate on where ketchup belongs in your kitchen. Aside from making your fridge aesthetically pleasing, the layout can ensure you don't fall victim to food poisoning. 'Your fridge and the way you're using it could mean your food is going off more quickly than you'd like,' Which? said. 'In the worst cases, it could even lead to you getting ill. 'But it's about much more than simply twiddling your thermostat.' Here's how you should organise your fridge, according to the experts. Experts from Which? have revealed the correct spot for every single item in your fridge, including raw meat, leftovers, and condiments How to organise your fridge You might be tempted to chuck your food in the fridge wherever there's space. However, Which? advises paying more attention to where you're putting certain items. 'No matter how accurate your thermostat is, the temperature in your fridge will still vary between shelves,' it explained. 'It's best to think of your thermostat temperature as an average for the fridge because, as a general rule, the higher the shelf, the higher the temperature will be.' Cured meats, leftovers, cream cakes, or any other items that don't need to be cooked before being eaten should be stored on the top shelf, according to Which?. The middle shelf should be used to store dairy products including cheese, butter, and yoghurt, as well as eggs. While many of us keep our milk in the fridge door, scientists also advise keeping this on the middle shelf. While many of us keep our milk in the fridge door, scientists also advise keeping this on the middle shelf How to organise your fridge Top shelf: Cured meats, leftovers, cream cakes Middle shelf: Milk, eggs, cheese, butter, yoghurt Bottom shelf: Raw meat, chicken, fish Drawers: Fruits and vegetables (but not together) Door rack: Condiments (maple syrup, mayonnaise, pesto, salad cream, tartare sauce) Advertisement Dr Christian Reynolds from City, University of London, previously told MailOnline: 'Milk is a perishable commodity so where you store it and the temperature you store it at in the fridge affects its shelf life. 'It's not just milk either - think about cheese, meat and all dairy products. Storing it the right way gets you better bang for your buck.' The bottom shelf should be used for raw meat, poultry and seafood. 'Raw meat, poultry and seafood should be stored in sealed containers, so they can't touch or drip onto other food,' Which? said. Meanwhile, the drawers should be used for fruits and vegetables - although not together. 'You shouldn't store fruit in a drawer that doesn't have a switch or contains vegetables,' Which? explained. 'It's likely to produce ethylene, a natural gas that can over-ripen other fresh food when trapped in a confined space.' Finally, the door rack - the warmest spot in the fridge should be used for certain condiments. The consumer champion advises keeping bread, cucumbers, and tomatoes in the cupboard. Meanwhile, several condiments - including ketchup - don't need to go in the fridge This includes maple syrup, mayonnaise, pesto, salad cream, and tartare sauce. 'The presence of natural preservatives, such as vinegar, in many condiments means they don't need to be kept in the much cooler parts of the fridge,' Which? added. Surprising foods that don't need to go in the fridge Which? highlights several foods that many of us tend to put in the fridge, but are actually better placed in the kitchen cupboard. 'There are a number of foods that are typically stored in the fridge that can actually quickly lose flavour and freshness as a result,' it explained. 'Others can become outright unsafe if stored in cold conditions.' The consumer champion advises keeping bread, cucumbers, and tomatoes in the cupboard. Meanwhile, several condiments - including ketchup - don't need to go in the fridge. In order to keep your food fresher for longer, Which? says that it's crucial to keep your fridge between 0C and 5C 'It's not essential to keep ketchup in the fridge,' Which? said. 'Not only does it contain vinegar, but tomatoes are naturally acidic, and this helps to preserve the product in ambient (room temperature) conditions.' Other condiments that are safe to keep in the cupboard include brown sauce, mustard, mint sauce, pickles, mango chutney, and chilli sauce. What temperature should you keep your fridge at? In order to keep your food fresher for longer, Which? says that it's crucial to keep your fridge between 0C and 5C. If your fridge gets too hot, it can allow germs to grow on your food. 'At anything over 8C, most harmful bacteria can grow rapidly on your food - it's commonly referred to as the danger zone for microbial growth,' Which? added. 'The faster your fridge gets down to within that 0C-5C temperature range, and the longer it's able to stay there, is key to maximising the amount of nutrients in your food.' Florida appeared to go full 'MAGA' election night as it was the top searched on Pornhub in the state. The pornographic website revealed Donald Trump's tagline was popular in the Sunshine State, which also included 'MAGA nude,' 'MAGA liberal' and 'MAGA flag.' More than 50 percent of Florida residents voted for Trump. Pornhub statisticians gathered data on what users across the US were searching from November 3 to November 6. Elsewhere in the US, the election seemed to have little bearing on people's Pornhub searches. People in swing-state Pennsylvania frequently searched for 'tushy' videos, while notoriously blue state California searched for 'thick and curvy' porn. Pornhub statisticians created a map showing each state's top relative search term - or the term searched more often when compared to other states - during election week Pornhub is an international site that receives 130 million visitors worldwide each day, but gets the majority of its traffic from US viewers. The site is currently banned in 14 states: Alabama, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah and Virginia, so they were excluded from the map. But those states that have access had interesting searches. Washington's top search was 'transgender,' while North Dakota was looking for content featuring 'Native Americans.' States like Oregon, which had 'deeper' as the most popular, and Maryland that looked up 'cute' left room for mystery. But Pornhub's statisticians didn't stop at the map. They also released a report on their election day traffic, revealing some interesting trends. Millions of Americans visit Pornhub every day, but it seems that the stress of election day may have driven more people to the site than usual. By 5am on November 5, the site saw a nine percent spike in site activity compared to an average day. Traffic continued to climb throughout the morning, peaking at 15 percent above average by 7 and 8am, 'when no doubt voters wanted a quick session before the chaos of the day ensued,' the report reads. Site activity remained above average until about 3pm, when traffic began to decrease as it usually does in the early evening, according to the report. Florida stood out as the only state with an explicitly political result, searching frequently for the acronym for President Elect Donald Trump's campaign slogan: 'MAGA' This isn't the first time that Americans have flocked to the adult website on election day. In 2020, morning traffic was up 14 percent, dipped 11 percent during the evening, and then reached 14 above average again at 3 am on election day. And on the morning of election day in 2016, traffic was up 17 percent at 8 am, down as low as 23 percent at 11 pm, and then shot up 10 percent at 3 am. Pornhub even recorded unusually high traffic during and after a debate between President Joe Biden and Donald Trump in June. The event started at 9pm ET - the same time viewership on Pornhub dropped by 8 percent from its average viewership. 'You could certainly say the debate impacted the evening schedule of hundreds of thousands of Americans,' a company spokesperson previously told DailyMail.com. While the slump lasted for the beginning of the debate, searching spiked 12 percent above the average at 11pm - about 15 minutes following the showdown. A former space commander is on a mission to root out DEI training so American soldiers 'can simply be focused on warfighting in a relatively apolitical workplace.' Lt Col Matt Lohmeier led the 11th Space Warning Squadron in the Space Force in 2020 before being fired a year later for criticizing the Biden-Harris administration agenda, which also resulting in a loss of pension. But last month Lohmeier was surprisingly rehired by Donald Trump. The position came during a rally in North Carolina where Lohmeier thanked the now elect-president for saying that he 'would fire those few woke generals who are a big problem.' He then asked Trump if he would 'setup a special task force office or position to ensure that these monsters never return to the Defense Department.' Trump instantly responded: ''They're gone! I'm gonna put you on that task force.' Lohmeier told DailyMail.com that the encounter was 'unscripted and unplanned.' 'I didn't know at the time what that meant,' he said. 'I didn't know if I'd simply join a larger team of people working on it, if I'd be put in charge of a task force, and I suppose all of that remains to be seen, and there's nothing to say about it publicly just yet.' He is now thinking of ways, 'in which I might get involved in trying to restore accountability in the military and to eliminate the DEI diversity equity, inclusion training I was critical of. ' Matt Lohmeier, who was a high-ranking officer in the Space Force before losing his job in 2021 over comments about diversity (Supplied/Matt Lohmeier) He hopes to help root out DEI training so American soldiers 'can simply be focused on war, fighting in a relatively apolitical workplace.' (Supplied/Matt Lohmeier) Lohmeier believes the Trump-Vance administration will energize the Space Force, driving cooperation with private enterprise in space exploration and the return to the moon. In the wake of his encounter with Trump, he revealed that many troops in uniform have since reached out to him - including former colleagues in the Space Force. 'They are very excited about the change in the administration and about the potential for the new Secretary of Defense,' Loheimer said. 'They've expressed excitement about, hopefully, a return to a simple sole focus on warfighting and not about politics and race discussions and political activist agendas.' Lohmeier was a Lieutenant Colonel in the Space Force in the summer of 2020, and the aftermath of George Floyd's death and the dawn of the Black Lives Matter. He described the events as 'a period of unrest where activists and political agitators and race hustlers used a man's death as an event that they could leverage for their revolutionary political purposes.' Lohmeier highlighted that the impact on military culture was visible and 'immediate'. 'You had leaders in uniform, as well as young followers in uniform, seizing that politically fraught moment for purposes of their own political worldview, purposes of spreading their own political worldview,' he said. 'You had, for example, at my base, a base commander, a colonel who is black, say things to his troops, like, 'No one at my base will stand in the way of the Black Lives Matter movement.' Well, of course, at once that was terribly polarizing. 'I saw the demonization of the sitting commander-in-chief by that same base commander. Lohmeier had been scheduled to ask a different question, but decided to put his views to President-elect Trump instead (Supplied/Matt Lohmeier) 'It's illegal in the military to publicly criticize, especially from your official capacity, your sitting commander-in-chief or your chain of command. 'I recognized that a lot of the roots of our current social justice activism were found in Marxist thought and ideology.' Lohmeier wrote a formal complaint and was dismissed from Space Force during the transition to the Biden administration. His book, Irresistible Revolution: Marxism's Goal of Conquest & the Unmaking of the American Military,' was published in May 2021. Lohmeier appeared on a podcast to promote the book and said: ''The diversity, inclusion and equity industry and the trainings we are receiving in the military...is rooted in critical race theory, which is rooted in Marxism. 'Since taking command as a commander about 10 months ago, I saw what I consider fundamentally incompatible and competing narratives of what America was, is and should be. 'That wasn't just prolific in social media, or throughout the country during this past year, but it was spreading throughout the United States military. And I had recognized those narratives as being Marxist in nature.' Lohmeier told DailyMail.com: 'The following week, I was fired from my command for two reasons that were both false. The first reason was it was alleged that I was politically partisan while acting in an official capacity. That was false.' 'Since taking command as a commander about 10 months ago, I saw what I consider fundamentally incompatible and competing narratives of what America was, is and should be. 'That wasn't just prolific in social media, or throughout the country during this past year, but it was spreading throughout the United States military. And I had recognized those narratives as being Marxist in nature.' 'Since taking command as a commander about 10 months ago, I saw what I consider fundamentally incompatible and competing narratives of what America was, is and should be. 'That wasn't just prolific in social media, or throughout the country during this past year, but it was spreading throughout the United States military. And I had recognized those narratives as being Marxist in nature.' He explained the second reason claimed he had publicly criticized his chain of command, to which he told DailyMail.com: 'That wasn't true either.' 'I was never found guilty of either of those things, and I separated from the military after a little over 15 years of service in the fall of 2021 without my pension,' Lohmeier said. The Space Force noted it had removed Lohmeier 'due to loss of trust and confidence in his ability to lead' after comments he made in a podcast while promoting his book. Lohmeier said he was not surprised by the 'cowardly' response of senior defense officials. 'They were afraid of the political climate we had created for ourselves in the country, and they were afraid to stand by a straight white male who was criticizing some of the race based political activism that was occurring,' He said. Matt Lohmeier, who was a high-ranking officer in the Space Force before losing his job in 2021 over comments about diversity (Supplied/Matt Lohmeier) 'I'm talking about the three and four star generals.' Lohmeier had a long and distinguished military career before becoming embroiled in controversy over the DEI influence within the armed forces. He graduated from the US Air Force Academy in 2006 and was commissioned as an officer in the Air Force. He completed two Master's degrees, one in military strategy. Flying F-15C fighter jets and working as a T-38 jet instructor pilot, Lohmeier transferred into US Air Force Space Command after seven years. When Trump's administration launched the Space Force in 2019, Lohmeier knew he was a 'natural fit.' 'I was one of the first officers, and my unit was one of the first units that transitioned into the new Space Force,' he said. 'And so I was as of 2020, and 2021, a commander in the Space Force of a space-based missile warning squadron.' Space-based missile warning systems are satellites that use infrared technology to track missile launches from a 'geosynchronous' orbit (meaning their orbit matches Earth's). The Space Force now administers Cold War ground-based radar dishes used to detect missiles and the space-based missile warning system. Lohmeier wrote a book explaining his views on DEI training in 2021 (Supplied/Matt Lohmeier) 'You have a prediction of where missiles are going to land, and you call commanders down range and our allies down range, and we let them know: 'Duck and cover. There's a rocket headed inbound,'' explained Lohmeier. 'At first it was established in the Cold War specifically for the detection and warning of intercontinental ballistic missiles, which carry the biggest threat, but then that capability was used for much smaller heat signatures, much smaller weapons, like the rockets and smaller missiles that are often lobbed in the Middle East against the State of Israel.' Other Space Force responsibilities involved maintaining GPS systems, which, while used by civilians, are a military system maintained by Air Force operators in Colorado that came over to the Space Force. 'In addition to missile warning and GPS, the Space Force does strategic communications,' Lohmeier said. 'If there's any kind of communication that is other that could otherwise be disrupted in the land, sea or air domains, space is one of those ways in which strategic communications can be provided to warfighters or key political leaders like a commander in chief.' The thinking behind the Space Force is to establish space as a 'domain' like land, sea and air, with experts who can make decisions, Lohmeier explained. 'You don't want people who are used to thinking about things from a terrestrial perspective to go work in the space domain,' he said. 'The purpose is to deter conflict in through and from space. And if conflict does happen, then, like every other domain, you've got experts in that domain who know how to assist in the waging of conflict.' He explains why he made the move and what it's like living as a local Greece is undoubtedly a dreamy holiday destination for foreigners. But does it also make for a paradise to live in if you're not a local? Brit-Venezuelan Daniel Carrizalez has the answer because he upped sticks from London in the UK and settled down in Nafplio in the Peloponnese region with his family back in 2010. Fourteen years later any regrets? Not by the sounds of it. The 49-year-old music composer and online entrepreneur relocated with his wife and four-month-old daughter and has since had another daughter in Greece. He tells MailOnline Travel: 'We were drawn to the Mediterranean lifestyle, rich culture and beautiful landscapes. Greece offered a slower, more fulfilling pace of life and a chance to raise our family surrounded by history, nature and strong community values.' Daniel says he'd never experienced such an amazing 'sense of community' before moving to Greece. He reveals: 'The biggest surprise has been the deep, genuine friendliness of people here. The warmth and hospitality are even more pronounced than I expected. Greeks go out of their way to make you feel welcome.' The relaxed and wholesome Greek lifestyle has been the biggest bonus to moving for Daniel, who loves 'being surrounded by natural beauty every day' and people who 'genuinely care about each other'. Daniel Carrizalez, 49, moved to Nafplio in Greece from London in 2010. He tells MailOnline Travel what it's like to live there Daniel says he loves 'being surrounded by natural beauty' every day in Greece The Brit explains that 'crime isn't a significant problem in Nafplio' and although there's 'petty crime', it 'generally feels very safe and people look out for each other.' While the lifestyle is a definite improvement on the UK, Daniel admits that bureaucracy is more of a challenge in Greece. He explains: 'The pace can be a bit slower. Things like paperwork and setting up services can take longer than in the UK, which can be frustrating. Things tend to be more streamlined in the UK.' Also, driving in Greece can be something of 'an adventure', says Daniel with 'narrow and winding rural roads' presenting a challenge. But he adds that 'the views make it worthwhile'. So how did the family settle on Nafplio, a coastal city about a two-hour drive from Athens, as their new home? Daniel explains: 'It's known for its historical significance, beautiful architecture and seaside charm. It's a perfect blend of culture, scenery and close-knit community, plus it offers a wonderful environment for our family.' What's housing like? According to Daniel, 'it can be affordable' with 'charming traditional homes, many with balconies and courtyards', on offer in Nafplio, and there's a 'range of options from city apartments to rural homes near olive groves'. As for healthcare, Daniel says 'it's generally good', but explains that the private sector has 'prompt service and excellent specialists at affordable rates', while public healthcare can 'sometimes be slower, particularly in rural areas'. Daniel says he was 'drawn to the Mediterranean lifestyle, rich culture and beautiful landscapes' in Greece Daniel lives in Nafplio (pictured above) a coastal city in the Peloponnese region WANT TO SEE MORE FROM DANIEL? Follow Daniel on YouTube @My Greek Lifestyle or find out more about living in Greece on his website - mygreeklifestyle.com Advertisement Nafplio also offers a 'lively' social scene. Daniel explains: 'We have a close circle of friends and enjoy everything from relaxed taverna dinners to local festivals. The nightlife is definitely fun - there are a range of options from traditional music spots to modern bars with a view.' And is the local cuisine worth writing home about? Eating out is 'fantastic', adds Daniel, who loves the country's emphasis on fresh and local ingredients'. His favourite restaurant is a 'magical' taverna called Bounos.Psarosavouras in Nafplio's old town with views of the sea and Bourtzi castle. So, would he recommend other Brits make the move? 'Absolutely,' says Daniel. 'If you value lifestyle, connection with nature, and a sense of community, Greece is a wonderful place to live. It's an ideal destination for those looking to embrace a balanced, fulfilling way of life.' Sitcom fanatics have compiled a list of 'perfect 10 out of 10 shows' with something to please everyone. A Reddit user asked other sitcom lovers: 'What's a sitcom that started as a 10, stayed a 10, and ended as a 10? They added: 'What's a sitcom that started off strong, stayed consistently great throughout, and then ended on a high note without losing its charm? Like, no drop in quality, no rushed endings just a perfect run from start to finish.' Submissions came flying in and intense discussion began until they agreed on a definitive list of perfect sitcoms. But do you agree with their choices? Malcom in the Middle Malcom in the Middle dominated TV screens in the 2000s and captivated the millennial and early Gen Z youth. Many of the Redditors agreed that it belongs on the list, with one declaring that 'it's even better' rewatching it as an adult. Frankie Muniz plays Malcom who is a young boy growing up in a chaotic family, with his three crazy brothers, lenient father Hal and strict mother Lois, played by Bryan Cranston and Jane Kaczmarek. Malcom in the Middle dominated TV screens in the 2000s and captivated the millennial and early Gen Z youth One Redditor called it a 'phenomenal show that never really had a bad season', whilst another said it still makes them laugh every time they watch it. You can fully immerse yourself in Y2K nostalgia with seven seasons and 151 episode in total. Malcolm in the Middle is available to stream on Disney Plus. Veep Fans fell in love with Julia Louis-Dreyfus portrayal of fictional US Vice President Seline Meyer in this political satire. Her performance was so stellar that it earned her six Emmy Awards in a row, which is enough on its own to justify why it is on the list. The series ended five years ago but Redditors are still describing it as 'possibly the best sitcom of all time' with other shows unable to meet its razor sharp wit. Fans fell in love with Julia Louis-Dreyfus portrayal of fictional US Vice President Seline Meyer in this political satire It first aired in 2012 and ended in 2019 after seven seasons and 65 episodes. Another said: 'I don't think I've seen a comedy show with the density and impact of jokes per episode such as Veep. 'I've seen a lot of comedies and Veep's humour is honestly unmatched.' Veep is available to stream on Sky and NOW. 3rd Rock From The Sun Hailed as an 'underappreciated' gem by the list makers, who were impressed with the niche suggestion, 3rd Rock From The Sun follows four aliens who come to study planet Earth. They are played by John Lithgow, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Kristen Johnston and French Stewart, described as an 'outstanding cast of impressive physical comedians' by Redditors. Hailed as an 'underappreciated' gem by the list makers, who were impressed with the niche suggestion, 3rd Rock From The Sun follows four aliens who come to study planet Earth It first aired in 1996 and ended in 2001 after six seasons and 139 episodes. One of the list contributors said: 'Watched it fully for the first time about 6/7 years ago, it's a fantastic show and deserves far more love than it gets in comparison to other shows,' Another remarked: 'Great answer. Very under-appreciated.' 3rd Rock From the Sun is available to stream on Channel 4. Schitt's Creek Since it began in 2015, Schitt's Creek has become a cult classic with a loyal and diverse fan base who view it as a comfort show. It revolves around a wealthy family with two entitled grown up children who are forced to live in a small town, which the father had previously bought his son as a funny birthday gift, after they lose their fortune. You watch the characters grow and develop as the show plays out over six seasons and come to love the family you once thought were insufferable. Since it began in 2015, Schitt's Creek has become a cult classic with a loyal and diverse fan base who view it as a comfort show Fans tend to relate to one more than the others but the beauty of it is that there is something relatable in all of them. While discussing its place on the list, one Redditor said: 'I think Schitt's Creek is the rare show that actually got better as it went along.' The IT Crowd Some of the UK's biggest comedians made a name for themselves on the IT crowd, including Richard Ayoade, Katherine Parkinson, Chris O'Dowd and Matt Berry. The series began in 2006, running for four seasons before ending in 2010. It follows two geeky IT technicians who work in the basement of an office building and are befriended by their new technophobic supervisor. The IT Crowd follows two geeky IT technicians who work in the basement of an office building and are befriended by their new technophobic supervisor The unlikely trio get themselves into hilarious and outlandish situations which are only made funnier by their classic dry British humour. The series also features their outlandish boss, played by Matt Berry, who quickly became a fan favourite for his theatrical and impulsive behaviour. It was a seemingly unanimous vote to add this one to the list as Redditors agreed that they simply love it. The Good Place People love The Good Place for its unique mix of humour, philosophy and clever storytelling which kept fans hooked for four seasons. The audience watches Kristen Bell's character Eleanor Shellstrop discover what happens when you die alongside co-stars Ted Danson, William Jackson Harper and Jameela Jamil. The light-hearted comedy mixed with thought-provoking storylines earned this show a seriously loyal fan base who find it comforting and hopeful. People love The Good Place for its unique mix of humour, philosophy and clever storytelling which kept fans hooked for four seasons One Redditor said: 'It had an intriguing beginning, fantastic middle, and bittersweet end.' Another wrote: 'Every scene was stellar. It found its feet immediately and never wavered. It's phenomenal.' The Good Place is available to stream on Netflix. 30 Rock 30 Rock is based on Tina Fey's time working on US talk show Saturday Night Live and sees her star as the head writer of a live sketch comedy show, Liz Lemon. It first aired in 2006 and ran until 2013 as fans kept begging for more after they fell in love with the constant stream of banter between characters. 30 Rock is based on Tina Fey's time working on US talk show Saturday Night Live and sees her star as the head writer of a live sketch comedy show, Liz Lemon One Redditor described it as 'consistently great throughout', whilst another praise it for being 'one of the highest joke per minute shows ever'. Another fan said that 30 Rock is 'a great example of a show that started strong, stayed strong, and finished strong'. Gen Z's love for the show after recently discovering it on streaming channels proves that it was ahead of its time and deserves a spot on this list. 30 Rock is available to stream on ITVX. Thomas' Prince of Darkness' Cromwell had a reputation for being a brutal, unforgiving enforcer to England's most tyrannical royal, King Henry VIII. Despite his nickname, he was actually never a royal, but in fact, a lawyer and statesman who played a crucial role in the English Reformation and modernization of government while he was in office from April 1533 to June 1540. As the BBC's historical drama, Wolf Hall, returns to screens after a decade off the air, just how accurately have the beeb and actor Mark Rylance depicted the real Earl of Essex? The Lord had a conflicting past. Most commoners viewed him as a money-obsessed, corrupt politician with an obsessive lust for power and schemes. But, throughout history, the Master of Jewels has been documented to have a more fun-loving side, as he enjoyed partying and splashed out on many galas for his closest companions. Thomas' Prince of Darkness' Cromwell had a scathing reputation for being a brutal, unforgiving enforcer to England's most tyrannical royal, King Henry VIII (Mark Rylance pictured in Wolf Hall) Despite his all-telling nickname, he was never a royal but was, in fact, a lawyer and statesman who played a crucial role in the English Reformation and modernization of government while he was in office from April 1533 to June 1540 From a commoner's point of view, Thomas was Henry VIII's right-hand man after he quickly worked his way through the ranks of Parliament in a matter of years. He started out as an overlooked solicitor, born to a Putney cloth worker, and went on to control the entire government, bearing an impressive string of titles, including Earl of Essex, Lord Great Chamberlain, Lord Privy Seal, Master of the Jewels, Baron Cromwell of Wimbledon and Lord Privy Seal. In less than a decade, he became one of the most powerful men in England, manipulated the Tudor government to his favour, single-handedly devised a plan to remove all monastic institutions by 1540 and secured the submission of the clergy to the King in matters of legislation by 1533. This meant for the first time in English history, the King established himself as the Supreme Head of the Church of England as Thomas secured the passage of the Act in Restraint of Appeals to Rome. This plot prevented appeals to Rome in matrimonial and testamentary cases and effectively severed ties with the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church. This type of submission was significant because the Church often held considerable power, sometimes rivaling or even exceeding that of secular rulers. By agreeing to submit to the King's authority in legislative matters, the clergy recognised the King's supreme authority over legal and governmental issues, including those that might affect the Church itself. This one piece of legislation changed the religious landscape of England forever and, in turn, made him incredibly unpopular among religious houses. But as the BBC 's historical drama, Wolf Hall, returns to screens after a decade off the air, just how accurately have the beeb and actor Mark Rylance depicted the real Earl of Essex The Lord had a conflicting past. Most commoners viewed him as a money-obsessed, corrupt politician with an obsessive lust for power and schemes In a further break from traditional Church authority, Thomas advocated for greater accessibility to the Bible. He championed the introduction of an English translation to be placed in every Church, insisting that scripture should be available to all, not just the clergy. This move democratised religious knowledge, marking a stark shift from Rome's authority and further solidifying England's independent path in religious matters. Yet Cromwell's sweeping changes did not come without a price. His bold, often controversial methods and staunchly reformist agenda made him a polarising figure, creating powerful enemies within both the royal court and the public. As one of the most dacorated and authoritative figures in government, aside from the King himself at the time, he predominantly called the shots, but remained vigilant and careful to pretend to be acting on the King's authority. And while he had a reputation for being an exemplary statesman and thriving politician, Thomas had an undying love for profits, which was typically prioritised over policies and what was, at the time, deemed best for the public and the country. This kickstarted the overwhelming unpopularity that brewed across the country and stuck to his reputation. His downfall came swiftly in 1540, as he was arrested and executed on charges of treason and heresy, bringing a dramatic close to his career. In a dramatic twist at the royal court, Thomas failed in his attempt to arrange a marriage between King Henry and Anne of Cleves, a German princess. Initaly he was the King's saviour when he desperately sought to get out of his marriage to Catherine of Aragon, so he could marry Anne Boleyn. But when Anne also failed to produce a male heir, he turned on her. Anne was once heard to say that she would gladly see Cromwell's 'head off his shoulders'. Thomas was behind the spurious charges of adultery, which led to Anne's beheading. He was present when she was executed in the Tower of London in 1536. But as he intended to secure a strategic Protestant alliance in Europe through the marriage to Anne of Cleves, Thomas and the marriage quickly became an embarrassment. Reportedly displeased with Anne's appearance, the King found himself locked in a short-lived, unsatisfactory marriage. Thomas's political opponents seized the opportunity to capitalise on the King's frustration, casting doubts on his judgment and reliability. With the King's favor waning, Thomas' enemies took aim, accusing him of overreaching his authority, promoting heretical ideas, and conspiring against the King himself. Although these charges were likely exaggerated, they gained traction in Henry's court, which had seen many a swift rise and fall. The King's volatile temper did little to help the Lord's case. Despite years of service and loyalty, Henry turned on his advisor, ordering his arrest in June. Pleas for mercy were ignored, and he was convicted without a proper trial. In July 1540, Thomas was led to the scaffold at the Tower of London, where he met his end by beheading. On the same day that Thomas died, Henry married his fifth wife, Katherine Howard. Despite his polarising legacy, Thomas' influence endures. From the Act of Supremacy to the dissolution of monasteries and the introduction of the English Bible, Thomas' reforms were transformative. His impact on the English Reformation is undeniable, leaving an indelible mark on the religious landscape of England. And while he had a reputation of being a unforgiving, stern and hyper-focused politician, he also has a wild side to him which saw him regularly splashing out on his closest friends and family. In recent evidence unearthed by British historian Tracy Borman, it was documented that Thomas wasn't always a scorning, serious and callous man, but occasionally showed a funny, humourous and lighthearted side. Financial evidence showed that he often hosted lavish parties, which boasted a range of exotic animals, endless beverages and performing jesters. He even coughed up a 1,000 - equivalent to 815,433 in today - just for a costume. The bureaucrat would limit no expense as he would cough up 400 - equivalent to 326,173 in today - for a banquet among friends and fellow statesmen. Thomas also had a guilty pleasure for gambling and would regularly try his hand at a game of dice - this is not to say he was any good, as his losses totaled to 50,000 in modern-day money. But, throughout history, the Master of Jewels has been documented to have a softer side as he enjoyed a party and splashed out on many galas for his closest companions So, while Thomas was the brains behind one of the biggest plots to split England from the Catholic Church and considered to be a machiavellian statesman, he was also a fun-loving, thriving party animal who treated his closest well and arguably had a lasting positive impact on English politics. But does the BBC's 2024 series depict the character, played by Mark, in an accurate and detailed performance? The majority could argue yes, as the BBC sees Thomas portrayed as an authoritative figure who can make any statesman quake in their boots with one look. But they also hint that there is more to him than meets the eye, as they are portrayed as a complex character who is both a political fixer and a man with some form of moral compass. Wolf Hall: The Mirror And The Light is available to stream on BBC iPlayer now. Chrishell Stause has returned to filming Selling Sunset, although she previously said she would not shoot if co-star and nemesis Nicole Young returned. After making the declaration in September, Chrishell later tweaked her statement and said she would continue the reality show if 'a zero' is added to her check. Stause, 43, and Young are now actively filming season nine of the hit Netflix series about luxury real estate brokerage The Oppenheim Group, a source told TMZ. The outlet reported that the castmates have not yet had to film a scene together for the upcoming installment. And it was noted that Nicole had signed on to return to the show before Chrishell's threat of an ultimatum. Chrishell appeared to have backed down from leaving the show after she realized producers were likely not willing to axe Nicole. Chrishell Stause has returned to filming Selling Sunset, although she previously said she would not shoot if co-star and nemesis Nicole Young returned; pictured in 2023 Stause, 43, and Young are now actively filming season nine of the hit Netflix series about luxury real estate brokerage The Oppenheim Group; Nicole pictured in December 2023 The ladies' beef stretches back to season six, when Nicole initially joined the cast. They clashed over a listing and the situation escalated to Chrishell accusing Nicole of being on drugs. Season eight premiered in September, and a teaser showed Stause branding Young a 'snake' and saying she told a 'disgusting lie' about her best friend Emma Hernan. The lie, viewers eventually discovered, turned out to be that Hernan had an affair with a married man. In a fiery thread of social media posts, Chrishell threatened to quit the hit show, vowing to never work with Nicole again, while also slamming the production company for allegedly not giving Emma an opportunity to defend herself. She wrote: 'Are we still giving air time to LIARS who just want air time?' Weeks later, Emma discussed the rumor and the fallout in an interview with Vulture. 'Nicole is a sick individual. Im going to be super-candid. Theres zero truth to that rumor. I know what shes referring to. 'First off, it was in 2021 that I showed this person properties and then they actually asked to invest in my empanada company. I said no, and nothing happened,' she explained. Chrishell seemed to brush off the drama this weekend as she enjoyed a night out at Christina Carpenter's concert She was joined by friend and celebrity hair stylist Chris Appleton during the Espresso hitmaker's Friday night show and Crypto Arena Chrishell seemed to brush off the drama this weekend as she enjoyed a night out at Christina Carpenter's concert. She was joined by friend and celebrity hair stylist Chris Appleton during the Espresso hitmaker's Friday night show and Crypto Arena. The actress looked typically fashion-forward in a low-cut gray mini dress that exposed her busty cleavage. The friends wore matching pink cowboy hats for the show, which was part of Sabrina's Short n' Sweet tour. Stause took to Instagram afterward to share photos and video clips with her four million followers. 'Sabrina Carpenter last night with a few favs! Best time!! Best host award @peacock Thank you!' she wrote in the caption. She engaged her fans, who have so far given the post 80,000 likes, as she asked, 'Whats your fav song of hers? Its so hard to pick. Depends on the time of day for me.' Alec Baldwin had audiences howling with laughter during the curtain call on Saturday Night Live, but it wasn't for delivering a punchline. The 66-year-old Rust star suffered a wardrobe malfunction while taking the traditional bow alongside host Charli XCX and the rest of the cast. As Baldwin clapped and waved to the crowd, he seemed blissfully unaware that his pants fly was wide opena detail eagle-eyed fans didn't miss. Social media erupted with reactions, with many poking fun at the actor. One user quipped, 'Hey @AlecBaldwin, learn how to zip your pants! #AlecBaldwin #SNL #zippergate.' Another chimed in, Alec Baldwin's fly being open during the sendoff was the funniest part of @nbcsnl tonight.' Alec Baldwin had audiences howling with laughter during the curtain call on Saturday Night Live , but it wasn't for delivering a punchline. The 66-year-old Rust star suffered a wardrobe malfunction while taking the traditional bow alongside host Charli XCX and the rest of the cast 'Alec Baldwin standing on stage at the end of Saturday Night Live with his fly down. Anyone else catch that? He looked completely disheveled. Those charges must have taken a toll on the old man,' referencing his ongoing Rust legal woes. Another viewer commented, 'Alec Baldwin just showing up in the outro for SNL while clearly fucked up and had his fly down, and he didn't even do anything this whole show LMFAO what is going on #SNL.' However, Baldwin did make an impression earlier in the episode, unveiling his new impersonation of Robert Kennedy Jr. The actor joined a star-studded cold open, sharing the stage with James Austin Johnson as Donald Trump, Dana Carvey as Joe Biden, and Sarah Sherman as Matt Gaetz. In the sketch, Baldwin took aim at Robert Kennedy Jr.'s controversial reputation while poking fun at his recent appointment as the 'new Secretary of Health and Human Services.' 'Americans need someone to teach them how to be healthy, someone like me, a 70-year-old man with movie star looks and a worm in his brain,' Baldwin quipped, referencing Kennedy's bizarre past claim about doctors finding a parasitic worm in his head. While the impression sparked some laughs, many viewers criticized Baldwin's appearance, calling it ill-timed considering his recent legal troubles stemming from the tragic shooting of Halyna Hutchins on the Rust set. 'They actually brought that deadbeat Alec Baldwin back?? SNL just needs to call it quits already,' one viewer tweeted, while another added, 'I don't know who keeps wanting more Alec Baldwin on SNL, but it's not me.' Social media erupted with reactions, with many poking fun at the actor Baldwin did make an impression earlier in the episode, unveiling his new impersonation of Robert Kennedy Jr. Baldwin also mocked Kennedy's vaccine skepticism, imitating his distinctive voice, which is affected by spasmodic dysphonia. The actor's appearance on SNL comes only months after the dismissal of the manslaughter charge against him in connection with the 2021 on-set death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. The incident occurred while Baldwin was rehearsing a scene for the film Rust and holding a prop gun that unexpectedly discharged, killing Hutchins and wounding director Joel Souza. Prosecutors dropped the charge after it was revealed that critical evidencepotentially favorable to Baldwin's defensehad not been provided. Charli XCX transformed into Victoria Beckham for Saturday Night Live's Thanksgiving sketch. The pop sensation, 32, hosted the legendary night show and embodied Posh Spice for the funny clip with a gathering of other 'IT girls'. The viral clip revolved around a Thanksgiving dinner - certainly not an ordinary one, as 'Posh Spice' was joined by some other A-listers. In the impersonation, Bowen Yang transformed into Marc Jacobs, Chloe Fineman acted as Julia Fox, Ego Nwodim as Naomi Campbell and Sarah Sherman as Rachel Sennott. They were joined by also Ashley Padilla and Jane Wickline as Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen, Heidi Gardner as Cher and Kenan Thompson as Law Roach. The sketch began with a revisionist story of Thanksgiving, saying: 'When the Pilgrims arrived in the new world, they were starved alone. They knew nothing of Americans and were feasting on turkey, Celsius and hamachi crudo. Charli XCX transformed into Victoria Beckham for Saturday Night Live 's Thanksgiving sketch - which included a turkey strut The pop sensation, 32, hosted the legendary night show and embodied Posh Spice for the funny clip with a gathering of other 'IT girls' 'Then, the party got so lit that they let everyone in, even the YouTubers and Zach Brown.' While an incapable Cher desperately tries to cook gravy, but ends up pouring some Sprite in it - they turned the dinner into a fashion show as the IT girls strutted their stuff around the dinner table. Playing a flawless parody of Victoria, Charli says as she looks into the camera: 'Pilgrims and indigenous. Honestly the best collab since me and David.' Bringing out the essentials, Posh Spice added: 'I brought cream and spinach.' It wasn't the only incredible impersonation Charli delivered on the epic episode on Saturday. The Boom Clap hitmaker transformed into Adele in a humorous skit as she took on double duty as the host and musical guest. The English songstress, who was recently nominated for seven Grammy awards - sent fans wild as they applauded the star's comedic skills as she appeared in a variety of sketches. Charli - whose full name is Charlotte Emma Aitchison - had the chance to step into the shoes of the Someone Like You hitmaker during a Wicked audition skit. The viral clip revolved around a Thanksgiving dinner - certainly not an ordinary one as 'Posh Spice' was joined by some of the most famous A-listers Posh Spice showed off her 'essentials' for the Thanksgiving dinner adding: 'I brought cream and spinach' The English songstress, who was recently nominated for seven Grammy awards - sent fans wild as they applauded the star's comedic skills as she appeared in a variety of sketches SNL comedians portrayed a number of different celebrities who had auditioned for a role in the musical adaptation in 'never-before-seen screen tests.' At one point, Charli stepped out in front of the camera wearing a black velvet dress - similar to an ensemble that Adele has worn during her Las Vegas residency. A voiceover could be heard saying, 'Okay, testing for Elphaba, Adele.' 'Adele' then asked while holding a microphone, 'Hello, can I take my shoes off?' before saying, 'Okay, wicked. Oh my God, I said the name of the bloody movie! Shut up, that's f***ing funny.' The screen test suddenly came to an end before other celebrity screen tests were shown. Saturday Night Live viewers were left appalled at a series of sexually crude jokes that mocked Peanut the squirrel, an internet-famous pet that was euthanized by New York officials. The furry social media sensation - along with his raccoon friend Fred - were removed from their owners' home on October 30 by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), and put down two days later. In the weeks since, social media users have raged against the DEC, especially because Peanut tested negative for rabies after allegedly biting an official. But now, they're turning their ire toward the Saturday Night Live crew for jokes they say were made in poor taste. On the Weekend Update, Colin Jost introduced cast member Sarah Sherman dressed as a squirrel wearing a black hat and shawl, proclaiming she was Peanut's widow. Amid an astonishing commitment to the mannerisms of a squirrel, Sherman made an obvious reference to the fact that Peanut's owner Mark Longo has an OnlyFans account with his wife. Longo has said he thinks officials raided his home and took his animals because of his 'spicy social media presence.' Sherman took that and ran with it, saying of Peanut, 'He wore little cowboy hats on Instagram. He stuffed his cheeks on OnlyFans. Both sets.' Sarah Sherman appears on Saturday Night Live's Weekend Update segment pretending to be Peanut the squirrel's widow Peanut the squirrel - also sometimes spelled P'Nut or PNUT - was euthanized after it had received complaints that wildlife was being kept illegally and potentially unsafely at Mark Longo's upstate farm She also joked about how Peanut bit a cop 'like a damn hero' and how he was decapitated afterward. Animals need to have their brain removed to test for rabies, which requires them to be decapitated. A large portion of the comedy was also dedicated to Peanut's widow being lonely, which had Sherman 'feeling up' Jost with her tail. 'Found a couple of acorns,' she said, later begging Jost to 'touch me.' Many people were disgusted by the segment or felt it was too soon to take jabs at Peanut. 'This is horrible. Disgusting and in bad taste,' one person wrote on X. 'How can you joke that soon about something so horrifying?' another wrote. 'Vile behavior,' another said. 'This current cast gets to take full credit for the downfall of this great American show.' 'This is in bad taste, justice for Peanut!' a fourth said. During the segment Sherman joked about how Peanut was decapitated so he could be tested for rabies. As the squirrel's widow, she also pretended to make sexual advances toward Jost Mark Longo and his wife Daniela pose with Peanut. Longo said he was in the process of filing paperwork to get Peanut certified as an educational animal when he was seized However, some viewers thought the segment was funny, many of whom praised Sherman's performance and dedication to the bit. 'Sarahs my favorite cast member. Everything shes in is hilarious,' one person wrote. 'Sarah Sherman is the funniest human being alive,' another said. 'This is fantastic,' a third wrote. The DEC, the agency that euthanized Peanut - also sometimes spelled P'Nut or PNUT - said it had received complaints that wildlife was being kept illegally and potentially unsafely at Longo's upstate farm. Longo runs an animal sanctuary with his wife Daniela - and they each have a large social media presence that promotes their OnlyFans content. Longo has said he was in the process of filing paperwork to get Peanut certified as an educational animal when he was seized. 'The DEC came to my house and raided my house without a search warrant to find a squirrel!' Longo said. 'I was treated as if I was a drug dealer and they were going for drugs and guns.' Longo has attacked the DEC for killing his pet and criticized the people who called the authorities on him He also had harsh words for the people who called the authorities on him. 'You took one of the most amazing animals away from me because of your selfishness. To the group of people who called DEC, there's a special place in hell for you,' Longo said. The incident has sparked a series of at least 14 bomb threats targeting DEC offices, which state police have found to be non-credible. Peanut's death became a bizarre election talking point after a fake Trump post that appeared to condemn the seizure and subsequent death of the squirrel went viral. Eventually, the official Donald Trump campaign TikTok account condemned Peanut's death as an act of 'needless killing' by 'Democrat bureaucrats in New York.' Eva Longoria has revealed the surprising secrets behind her happy marriage to Jose Baston, with the Desperate Housewives star admitting that she doesn't think of her husband as a 'best friend'. The 49-year-old and the Mexican businessman first began dating in 2013, before going on to tie the knot three years later, and the actress noted that something that has always helped their relationship is the fact they 'don't compete for attention'. Speaking exclusively to DailyMail.com, the Only Murders In The Building star gushed: 'He makes me laugh, and he's a really good partner, and he supports me in everything I do. 'I support him in everything he does. We don't compete for attention or spotlight.' Naturally, the L'Oreal Paris spokesperson's position in the industry often means that she has to actively remain in the spotlight. However, her husband shies away from the limelight - to the point where he actually begged the actress to keep him out of her social media posts. Eva Longoria has revealed the surprising secrets behind her happy marriage to Jose Baston to DailyMail.com The Desperate Housewives star admitting that she doesn't think of her husband as a 'best friend' Eva continued: 'He loves for me to be on the red carpet. It's one place he hates and he hates it. 'He hates Instagram. He's like, please don't put me on your Instagram. That's why he's never on my social media. Once a while I try to slip him in there.' The actress admitted that Jose's aversion to the spotlight has been one of the reasons why he is a great partner as she continued: 'It's actually refreshing to be with somebody who doesn't need that constant validation of like "remind people we're together", "remind people, I need to be on a red carpet". Hes just a really kind partner. When asked if her husband was like a best friend, the Sylvie's Love star explained: 'No, I have best friends. He doesn't need to occupy that role. It's a different relationship. 'My best friends are my best friends, and I go to them for things. And my husband is my partner. Hes there for a different function, and he really excels in that role in my life.' The happy couple, who share six-year-old son Santiago, recently made the decision to relocate to Spain, which DailyMail.com exclusively revealed in April. Eva has Spanish citizenship and, in 2022, was given the honorary title 'Dame' due to her family roots tracing back to the Spanish city of Oviedo, where her ancestors are from. The Texas born actress, who has spent her 'whole adult life' in California, recently explained to Marie Claire magazine that she feels the American 'chapter in my life is done now' and no longer wants to live in Los Angeles, alleging the city has been 'changing'. The actress noted that something that has always helped their relationship is the fact they 'don't compete for attention' (pictured with their son Santiago) The star has been living abroad while she works on her CNN miniseries Searching for Spain - a follow up to last year's Searching for Mexico. The Devious Maid producer, who campaigned hard for Kamala Harris to win the presidential election, added that she fears that if Donald Trump 'keeps his promises' the US will be a 'scary place'. 'I get to escape and go somewhere,' the Flamin' Hot director explained. 'Most Americans aren't so lucky. They're going to be stuck in this dystopian country, and my anxiety and sadness is for them.' She also confirmed that her family are happily splitting their time between Mexico and Spain because she often ends up in South America or other European destinations for work, meaning she does not frequently return to Los Angeles. 'I had my whole adult life here,' Eva said of her former home. 'But even before [the pandemic], it was changing. The vibe was different. And then COVID happened, and it pushed it over the edge. 'Whether it's the homelessness or the taxes, not that I want to s**t on California it just feels like this chapter in my life is done now.' The happy couple recently made the decision to relocate to Spain, which DailyMail.com exclusively revealed in April Eva, who campaigned hard for Kamala Harris to win the presidential election, has warned that if Donald Trump 'keeps his promises' the US will be a 'scary place' Longoria, who recently appeared in the latest season of Only Murders in the Building and the Apple TV+ series Land of Women, admitted she is 'privileged' to have the opportunity to live abroad. Eva moved to Los Angeles in the late 1990s, landing her first first TV gig on Beverly Hills, 90210, before going on to appear on soap operas like General Hospital and The Young and the Restless. Four years later, she was cast as Gabrielle Solis on Desperate Housewives, which made her a household name across the country. Elsewhere, Eva serves as president of The Global Gift Foundation - a non-profit that aims to create a positive impact on the lives of children, women and families who are in need. It was founded by Maria, a Spanish actress, businesswoman and philanthropist, in 2013. According to its website, the mission of her foundation is to 'help Latinas build better futures for themselves and their families through education and entrepreneurship.' The approval of Proposition K will ban private vehicles on the Upper Great Highway between Lincoln Way and Sloat Boulevard. However, most voters in the Sunset opposed Prop K and some want to recall their supervisor, Joel Engardio, who championed the measure. Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle Regarding Most in Sunset oppose Prop K Great Highway car ban. Will they recall supervisor behind it? (Letters to the Editor, SFChronicle.com, Nov. 14): San Francisco Supervisor Joel Engardio is a great representative for the Sunset. We may not see eye-to-eye on every issue, but he stands tall on key issues that impact city residents. Engardio is a strong supporter of police and public safety, tackling homelessness, bringing back algebra and excellence into our schools, and he has revitalized our commercial districts through his support of the successful and beloved night markets. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Now that voters have passed Prop K, rather than wasting energy criticizing Engardio, we should work with him and the measures supporters to build the park we want to see and to make needed traffic adjustments to minimize congestion. Cyn Wang, San Francisco Money talks in S.F. The issue isnt that San Francisco Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie is a humble guy nor that he stole the election from Mayor London Breed that she deserved because of her impoverished childhood. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The issue is that big money has perverted the democratic process. Thank the Supreme Courts decision in Citizens United that allowed billionaires to fund independent political action committees to support candidates and causes. Luries billionaire mother gave a PAC supporting him $1 million. If Luries campaign hadnt spent more than $13 million, most of it his money, he wouldnt have gone from nice guy to mayor. Billionaire Michael Bloomberg gave Breeds PAC $1 million. Billionaires Michael Moritz and William Oberndorf gave millions to mayoral candidate Mark Farrells PAC and his related committees. The billionaires fund organizations that claim to be grassroots but are really fronts for their political agenda. Voters rejected Proposition D, the billionaires attempt to dismantle San Franciscos commissions and give their candidate Farrell more power. They outspent the opposition 137 to 1, but voters did their homework. Its legal for billionaires to advance their political agenda through money, and we, as voters, must remain vigilant in exposing their role. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Ellen Chaitin, San Francisco Hail, Trump Legend says that the Roman emperor Caligula wanted to name his horse a consul to show his contempt for the Roman Senate. About Opinion Guest opinions in Open Forum and Insight are produced by writers with expertise, personal experience or original insights on a subject of interest to our readers. Their views do not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Chronicle editorial board, which is committed to providing a diversity of ideas to our readership. Read more about our transparency and ethics policies This is just what Donald Trump is doing by nominating a TV personality to head the Defense Department and Matt Gaetz to be attorney general. Trump is daring the Senate to assert its constitutional role. Advertisement Article continues below this ad If instead Senate rolls over and plays dead, Trump will have a free hand to effectively rule by decree, having proved that this Congress aspires to nothing more than licking his boots. The Kid Laroi made a triumphant return to his hometown as part of his international tour celebrating his second album, The First Time. The 21-year-old superstar delivered an electrifying performance on Saturday night that reaffirmed his status as Australia's biggest music export. The concert was everything fans have come to expect from Laroi a dynamic blend of explosive pyrotechnics, heartfelt vocals, and sing-along moments that shook Sydney's CommBank Stadium to its core. The Sydney-born rapper's passionate energy brought the crowd to life, delivering a night of unforgettable music and palpable connection with his fans. Fans were treated to an incredible 22-song setlist that spanned his career highlights. The night kicked off with the anthemic Baby I'm Back and moved seamlessly into fan-favourites like Girls and Tragic. The LA-based star made bold fashion statements throughout the evening. Starting off in a minimalist black ensemble, he paired a sleeveless muscle tee with a silver cross necklace for a sleek, contemporary look. The Kid Laroi made a triumphant return to his hometown as part of his international tour celebrating his second album, The First Time The 21-year-old superstar delivered an electrifying performance on Saturday night that reaffirmed his status as Australia's biggest music export Midway through, he switched gears into a stylish black bomber jacket, adorned with glittering embellishments, giving his streetwear a dash of high-fashion edge. His choice of oversized sunglasses added an effortlessly cool touch, while his gloves strikingly decorated with metallic details became an iconic accessory of the night. As the show progressed, his signature blonde locks fell across his forehead as he belted out his emotional hits under the glow of blue and orange lights. The emotional high came during So Done, where Laroi restarted the song to address a serious crowd injury, showing his dedication to fan safety. The surprises didn't stop there. Australian rapper Nooky joined him onstage for a high-energy performance of Blessings, followed by a crowd-pleasing cover of ONEFOUR's My City, where the group made an appearance to deafening cheers. The concert was everything fans have come to expect from Laroi a dynamic blend of explosive pyrotechnics, heartfelt vocals, and sing-along moments that shook Sydney's CommBank Stadium to its core His passionate energy brought the crowd to life, delivering a night of unforgettable music and palpable connection with his fans The evening closed with an unforgettable rendition of Stay, Laroi's mega-hit with Justin Bieber, bringing the entire arena to its feet. Laroi is nominated for four ARIA Awards including Song Of The Year for Nights Like This, Best Pop Release for Girls and Best Solo Artist. He will also be performing throughout the ceremony, which will take place on November 22. His new single with Quavo, Slow It Down, is out now. Midway through, he switched gears into a stylish black bomber jacket, adorned with glittering embellishments, giving his streetwear a dash of high-fashion edge His choice of oversized sunglasses added an effortlessly cool touch, while his gloves strikingly decorated with metallic details became an iconic accessory of the night Tilda Swinton often considers her next film could be her swan song. The actress, 64 who is starring with Julianne Moore, also 64, in The Room Next Door, told Elle, 'I've always intended that each film would be my final one.' The British actress stars as a war correspondent diagnosed with stage three cancer in the drama directed and co-written by Pedro Almodovar. Her character, Martha, reconnects with Moore's Ingrid after years apart with a special request as she approaches death. The movie won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival and is considered a serious contender for the upcoming Hollywood awards season. Swinton explained why she approaches each project as her last. 'It was not wanting to jinx anything because I have had such fun from start to finish,' she told the outlet. Tilda Swinton often hints each film could be her swan song. The actress, 64 told Elle 'I've always intended that each film would be my final one'; seen in September 'I always thought, 'Well, that's a good one to go out on. Let's just quit while we're ahead.' And I feel it today. I feel The Room Next Door is the last film I make.' 'Let's see if anything else happens,' she said. Something did happen. Swinton recently wrapped work on The Ballad of a Small Player. It's a psychological drama co-starring Colin Farrell and Fala Chen. She also stars in another film, The End, as the mother of a wealthy family living in a salt mine, who have their lives upended when they encounter a stranger. Swinton credited her longevity in the movie business to her ability to make a family with her co-workers. 'I'm really grateful, because I don't know that if I hadn't continued to find these families, if I would be interested in working,' she told the publication. 'I don't think of myself as an industrial animal at all, you know, the way in which industry tends to divide people up and tends to concentrate on individual skills. My skill, if I have anything, is finding collaborators.' Swinton, 64, is starring with Julianne Moore, 64, in The Room Next Door, as a war correspondent diagnosed with stage 3 cancer who re-connects with an old friend and asks her an unusual favor The drama, co-written and directed by Pedro Almodovar film won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival. The movie opens in theaters December 20 Swinton explained why she approaches each project as her last. 'It was not wanting to jinx anything because I have had such fun from start to finish,' she told the outlet; seen in September The versatile actress who joined the Marvel universe via 2016's Dr. Strange and again in 2019's Avengers: End Game, which seems to have increased her popularity with younger moviegoers. The Oscar winner was 'doing a night shoot (in Mexico) and all these street kids came up and flocked around me, because they'd seen the [first] Narnia film. And I thought, 'How amazing.'' 'Maybe Marvel fans will come and see an Almodovar film,' she suggested. The Room Next Door opens in theaters December 20. The End makes its debut December 6 and goes wide December 13. Advertisement Elizabeth Hurley looked incredible as she attended The Michael Josephson MBE Charity Ball in Manchester on Saturday with her son Damian. The actress, 59, wore a plunging silver gown while Damian, 22, looked as stylish as ever in a black blazer and trousers. Arriving at Hilton Deansgate Manchester, Elizabeth flaunted her ageless physique in the fitted number which featured long sleeves and sequins. She teamed it with a pair of open toe heels and a silver box clutch bag, styling her hair into loose waves. Meanwhile her best friend Patsy Kensit was also in attendance who stunned in a long sleeved black dress with a beaded detail. The pair first who met on the set of the forgotten '90s thriller Kill Cruise, looked pleased to see each other as they posed for pictures together with their arms round each others waist and at one point sharing a giggle. Elizabeth Hurley put on a racy display showing off her eye-popping curves as she joins stylish Patsy Kensit and Lucy Mecklenburgh at star-studded charity bash on Saturday night Arriving at Hilton Deansgate Manchester, Elizabeth flaunted her ageless physique in the fitted number which featured long sleeves and sequins Patsy oozed sophistication in the stylish number and rocked a smokey eye palette with matte lip. She left her blonde locks to hang freely and kept her accessories minimal, to let her dress do the talking. Also at the glitzy event was Lucy Mecklenburgh who looked incredible in a black and white mini dress. The former TOWIE star, 32, was there with her fiance Ryan Thomas and looked very much in love as the pair cosied up for pictures. Lucy showed off her freshly cut bob, which she styled into waves and wore tucked behind one ear. Her dress was from the Nicky Hilton X Rebecca Vallance collection and showcased a stunning plunging V-neckline and short puff sleeves. The fitted body was detailed with a diamonte bow embellishment and a diamonte trim, whilst the A-line skirt was adorned with intricate pearl and sequin design, exuding luxury and elegance. Lucy added height to her frame with a pair of silver heels and toted her belongings in a small black bag. She was joined by her son Damian Hurely , 22, who looked as stylish as ever in a black cross over blazer and trousers and also held onto some brown sunglasses Elizabeth teamed her outfit with a pair of open toe heels and a silver box clutch bag, styling her hair into loose waves. She was joined by her best friend Patsy Kensit was also in attendance and stunned in a long sleeved black dress with a beaded detail The pair first who met on the set of the forgotten '90s thriller Kill Cruise, looked pleased to see each other as they posed for pictures together with their arms round each others waist and at one point sharing a giggle Patsy oozed sophistication in the stylish number and rocked a smokey eye palette with matte lip She left her blonde locks to hang freely and kept her accessories minimal, to let her dress do the talking Also at the glitzy event was Lucy Mecklenburgh who looked incredible in a mini dress from the Nicky Hilton X Rebecca Vallance collection and showcased a stunning plunging V-neckline and short puff sleeves Lucy was joined by her fiance Ryan Thomas who she met on Celebrity Island With Bear Grylls in 2017 and had been engaged to since 2019 They share son Roman, four, and daughter Lilah, two. Ryan has a daughter Scarlett, 13, from his marriage to fellow Coronation Street star Tina O'Brien. Ryan, looked very suave in a suit and bowtie. The British actor and the reality star met on Celebrity Island With Bear Grylls in 2017 and have been engaged since 2019. They share son Roman, four, and daughter Lilah, two. Ryan has a daughter Scarlett, 13, from his marriage to fellow Coronation Street star Tina O'Brien. Pregnant Jorgie Porter looked glowing as she showed off her growing baby bump in a sparkly silver dress. with feather cuffs. The Hollyoaks actress, 36, is expecting her second child with fiance Oliver Piotrowski after they welcomed their first child Forest, now 23 months, in December 2022. Oliver couldn't take his eyes off the blonde beauty as he lovingly touched her bump and looked into her eyes. Pregnant Jorgie Porter looked glowing as she showed off her growing baby bump in a sparkly silver dress. with feather cuffs The Hollyoaks actress, 36, is expecting her second child with fiance Oliver Piotrowski after they welcomed their first child Forest, now 23 months, in December 2022 Oliver couldn't take his eyes off the blonde beauty as he lovingly tpouched her bump and looked into her eyes. Emmerdale's Roxy Shahidi who is known for portraying the role of Leyla Harding in ITV soap turned heads in a black floor length gown wit a mesh middle Nikki Sanderson stood out from the crowd in an aubergine coloured green maxi dress that draped across the floor Laura Norton who is known for her role as Kerry Wyatt on the ITV soap opera Emmerdale wore a white dress with black hee Michael Josephson pictured with Elizabeth Hurley Rustie Lee and Lindon Kellet were also in attendance Speaking to MailOnline, Michael says:'The Michael Josephson MBE Charity Ball is all about raising funds to support the fantastic work our beneficiary charities undertake to give children in the Northwest and across the UK the best start in life' Jorgie recently revealed she's having a baby girl in an adorable Instagram post. The pregnant soap star made the exciting announcement with a series of snaps of herself enjoying a gender reveal party. Soap stars Nikki Sanderson, Laura Norton, Roxy Shahidi were also in attendance. Now in its sixth year, The Michael Josephson MBE Charity Ball has raised millions for childrens charities and has once again broken records with last night's gala raising an incredible 1,204,488.78 net. Speaking to MailOnline, Michael said: 'The Michael Josephson MBE Charity Ball is all about raising funds to support the fantastic work our beneficiary charities undertake to give children in the Northwest and across the UK the best start in life. 'I want to thank everyone who has donated, pledged, and bid in our silent and grand auctions and helped us to raise an incredible 1,204,488.78. Every year I am blown away by the generosity of the celebrities and guests who support the ball, and tonight is no different. 'Ive seen firsthand just how much the money weve raised can impact the charities that we help. I am so proud of what weve achieved this evening.' Steve Zahn has revealed how his time in the Australian outback back in the '90s may have unexpectedly prepared him for his latest role in Apple TV+'s drama Silo. The 57-year-old actor, known for his roles in War for the Planet of the Apes and White Lotus, joins the hit series for its second season, stepping into the shoes of Solo, a resourceful loner navigating life in a sprawling underground city. Reflecting on his character's survivalist tendencies, Steve reminisced about his solitary escapades in the Australian outback nearly three decades ago. Speaking to 9Honey Celebrity, Zahn shared fond memories of filming Race the Sun in 1995, a drama centred on solar car racing, co-starring Halle Berry and Jim Belushi. Much of the shoot took place around Broken Hill, NSW, where the actor found himself embracing the solitude and simplicity of the Aussie outback. 'Oh, I loved working in Australia,' he gushed. 'It was such a great timeI had an absolute ball there.' Steve Zahn has revealed how his time in the Australian outback back in the '90s may have unexpectedly prepared him for his latest role in Apple TV+'s drama Silo The 57-year-old actor, known for his roles in War for the Planet of the Apes and White Lotus (pictured), joins the hit series for its second season, stepping into the shoes of Solo, a resourceful loner navigating life in a sprawling underground city The frontier mining town, which has also served as the backdrop for Mad Max: Furiosa starring Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth and Priscilla: Queen of the Desert, holds a special place in the White Lotus star's heart. Zahn's recollections included everything from celebrating Anzac Day at sunrise, to embracing the uniquely Australian game of Two Up. But it was his off-duty adventures that truly left an impression. 'I'd rented this pickup truck that ran on propane,' he said, chuckling. 'With my per diem, I'd buy firewood and a swag. I only worked a couple of days a week, so I'd just drive out into the Mundi Mundi Plains, start a fire, and camp under the stars. It was amazingI felt so free.' These moments of solitude and self-reliance, Zahn mused, mirrored aspects of his Silo character. Solo's resilience and resourcefulness in the show echo Zahn's own connection to the vast Australian wilderness. The actor also praised his co-star Rebecca Ferguson, who not only plays the lead, Juliette Nichols, but also serves as an executive producer on the series. Despite Ferguson's high profile, Zahn said working with her felt natural and unpressured. 'She's incrediblejust a delight and such a fantastic actor,' he said. ' We have similar approaches to work. Between takes, it's all laughs, but once the cameras roll, we're totally locked in.' Interestingly, Zahn credits a mutual connection with Ferguson for landing the role. While he didn't elaborate on the details, the collaboration has clearly sparked a strong professional chemistry between the two. 'Oh, I loved working in Australia,' he gushed to 9Honey Celebrity. 'It was such a great timeI had an absolute ball there' Pamela Anderson looked angelic in a long white shirt and pleated skirt as she attended Deadline Contenders in Los Angeles on Saturday. The 57-year-old former Baywatch star punctuated the outfit with nude, pointy-toe heels. The mother-of-two, who stars in Gia Coppola's upcoming drama The Last Showgirl, stuck to her makeup-free practice as she bared her freckled face. Her signature blonde hair was parted down the middle as it fell freely down her back. In The Last Showgirl, Anderson portrays a veteran showgirl who must sort her future when her show abruptly wraps after 30 years. The movie is slated for a January 10, 2025 release and earlier this week a first-look trailer captivated fans and prompted Oscar buzz. Pamela Anderson looked angelic in a long white shirt and pleated skirt as she attended Deadline Contenders in Los Angeles on Saturday The 57-year-old former Baywatch star punctuated her outfit with nude, pointy-toe heels It also stars Jamie Lee Curtis, Brenda Song, Kiernan Shipka, among others. Anderson has sparked speculation that she will nag a Best Actress Academy Award nod for the role. Meanwhile, Curtis' performance was praised as a 'force of nature' by Variety critic Peter Debruge. Deadlines Pete Hammond said: 'Anderson is remarkable in this role, which fits her own natural optimism but also gives her the chance to play her emotions laid bare. She will break your heart.' The review continued, 'I have always thought she was an underrated comedic actress, based especially on her short-lived 2005 sitcom Stacked, but the dramatic chops have not been there before, certainly not on this scale. And she is all-in here.' Anderson last acted in the 2017 film adaptation of Baywatch, reprising her iconic role as CJ Parker. In January 2023 she starred in her Netflix documentary Pamela, A Love Story and she also released her memoir Love, Pamela that month. At the movie's premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September, Pamela said she's 'been getting ready my whole life for this role.' 'Having a beautiful, messy life is something incredible to draw from, and sometimes I'll look back on my life and think, I could have done this differently, but you need the life experience to be able to look back and say those things,' she reflected. The mother-of-two stuck to her makeup-free practice as she bared her freckled face Her signature blonde hair was parted down the middle as it fell freely down her back Anderson stars in Gia Coppola's upcoming drama The Last Showgirl Per Deadline, Contenders Film: Los Angeles is 'an annual daylong awards-season kickoff event' that hosts 'stars and talent of films competing for the top honors during the upcoming awards season.' This year's affair featured over 20 movies with actors and directors gathering for panels at the Directors Guild of America. Among the panelists was Kevin Costner, 69, who discussed his film Horizon: An American Saga Chapter 1. Lupita Nyong'o, Saoirse Ronan, Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton were also some of the famous faces at the gathering. Zoe Kravitz seems to be thriving in the wake of her surprising split from Channing Tatum after nearly three years together. The 35-year-old actress and director stepped out for a lively girls' night with fellow star Dianna Agron, hitting West Hollywood on Friday. Keeping it effortlessly chic, Kravitz rocked a black fuzzy coat as she stayed low-key in the backseat of a car alongside her glamorous friend. The duo was spotted leaving TV personality Vas Morgan's house party around 2 a.m., according to Page Six. This recent night out comes on the heels of Kravitz's Halloween celebration in New York City, where she and her girlfriends attended a glamorous Princess Diana-themed soiree. Around the same time, the Big Little Lies star was also spotted enjoying a solo stroll through the streets of the Big Apple. Zoe Kravitz seems to be thriving in the wake of her surprising split from Channing Tatum after nearly three years together The 35-year-old actress and director stepped out for a lively girls' night with fellow star Dianna Agron , hitting West Hollywood on Friday The superstar couple's breakup is especially surprising given their recent engagement and Channing's tattoo of Zoe's initials on the back of his hand, which he got just last month. Their last public appearance as a couple was captured on Channing's Instagram on September 3. The post featured Zoe resting on his shirtless chest while he snapped a selfie. In the heartfelt caption, the Deadpool & Wolverine actor praised her dedication to Blink Twice. 'This little sweet. She So tired bro. Every time I wondered if she'd break she just kept going and going and going,' he wrote. 'Always on the dig for truth. She pour'd every single ounce of her into this film. 'I'm so proud to stand ten toes down for her, this film and everyone in it. forever. Knowing what it took to make it. No one will ever know.' He ended the post on an emotional note: 'Thank you for finding me and seeing me. I got you forever. Me and you back to back against it all. I'll never blink. Let's go.' The last time the two were seen together in person was October 6, during a date night in Brooklyn at a production of the play Picture Day at Coffey Street Studio. Despite their apparent split, the pair are still professionally connected. Both have been cast in the upcoming alien invasion comedy Alpha Gang. This recent night out comes on the heels of Kravitz's Halloween celebration in New York City , where she and her girlfriends attended a glamorous Princess Diana-themed soiree - pictured with Margarita Levieva, Rebecca Dayan, Dianna Agron and Yola Jimenez On Tuesday news broke that the couple called quits on their relationship, ending their engagement; pictured in August The two first sparked romance rumors in August 2021, when Channing was seen biking through New York City while Zoe walked alongside him. By September of that year, speculation intensified as they were spotted leaving the Met Gala together, even though they didn't walk the red carpet as a pair. Their relationship became official by Halloween 2021. Last year, the couple had taken the next step and gotten engaged. Former Made In Chelsea star Kimberley Garner has revealed that she has a new man in her life. The reality star turned swimwear designer is dating handsome trader William Claeyssens de Tena, 30, stepping out with him at the Chain of Hope Gala Ball for the first time. Speaking exclusively to the Mail on Sunday, Kimberley confirmed her relationship status, revealing the budding romance was going well, and she was happy. We met through friends just last week, so this is our second date, she added. Kimberleys beaus Instagram says he divides his time between Marbella and London, and he appears to enjoy the high life - sailing, shooting, and attending events like the Goodwood Festival of Speed being some of his hobbies. It comes after she recently revealed that she had 'just broken up with someone'. Kimberley's last known romance began last summer, when it was revealed that she was going out with financier Andreas Anthis, but the pair broke up in April with Kimberley calling it the right decision . Kimberley was spotted for the first time with Andreas Anthis last July, as they packed on the PDA while walking her dog Sasha in London. The reality star previously dated her MIC co-star Richard Dinan. Kimberley Garner pictured with members of the Chelsea Pensioners ahead of the Chelsea Christmas Lights Switch On The Chelsea Christmas lights were switched on for the first time this holiday season in front of a large crowd on Saturday evening The Made In Chelsea reality TV star attended the switch on with Trinny Woodall She also revealed she has bought a new house last week in Belgravia, London, and was excited to be living back in the UK after putting her Miami beach house on the market, a decision which she says was not driven by the presidential race because she was happy with the result. I just bought a new property in Belgravia, so I have been working for the last two months and had my head down, she said. This is my first night out in two months. I am selling my flat in America, so I am actually moving my money from the US to London. I love it in America, but I just love British culture we are fabulous. We have our culture, history, accents. I love our traditions here and feel it is very elegant. It is where I grew up, I went to boarding school here and think it is amazing. The 33-year-old socialite looked to be glowing with happiness as she celebrated the annual Christmas lights switch-on event on the Kings Road, Chelsea, on Saturday, alongside Trinny Woodall. Kimberley first found fame on Made In Chelsea and has made a name for herself as a successful swimsuit brand entrepreneur. She recently spoke about how she used to pretend to be an intern when she first started the business as nobody took her seriously. Trinny Woodall pictured in attendance at the Chelsea Christmas Light Switch On, at which she was attending with Kimberley Garner Kimberley confirmed her new relationship status exclusively with the Mail on Sunday But despite getting her break on the show she has no desire to go back saying I havent watched it for years. I am a grown up. I love my life now and dont need the drama. Kimberley has been spitting her time between her native London and the coastal city since she bought the pad in December 2018. But she has now listed the stunning abode for sale with an asking price of $1.29 million. The designer is expanding her range to include a line for men that will let them match their trunks with women's bikinis and revealed she would love actor Jacob Elordi to model them but had not approached him. The annual Chain of Hope Gala Ball celebrated a quarter of a century of 'mending little hearts' and, in 2023, it raised over 1.6 million for children with heart disease in developing and war-torn countries. According to its website, each year between 500 and 600 guests attend the Ball , from all over the world. Past attendees have included Royalty, celebrities, fashionistas and world-renowned physicians in addition to a core group of international high net worth individuals. Jorgie Porter showed off her growing baby bump in a sparkly silver dress as she attended The Michael Josephson MBE Charity Ball in Manchester on Saturday. The Hollyoaks actress, 36, is expecting her second child with fiance Oliver Piotrowski after they welcomed their first child Forest, now 23 months, in December 2022. She stunned in the sequin maxi dress which featured long flared sleeves, feather cuffs and a crew neckline. Jorgie wore her blonde locks scraped back and looked stunning for the night out with a heavy makeup palette. Speaking exclusively to MailOnline Jorgie admitted it had felt like a long time and that second time around wasn't better saying: 'God no! My belly's stretched loads bigger. I feel like I've been pregnant for 54 years!' Revealing that she's due in four weeks, Jorgie then went onto say she could have a bit of a surprise that night: 'I'm due in four weeks but my bag's packed already as her head's engaged so she could pop out tonight! I had a C-section the first time, so I would like that again.' Jorgie Porter looked glowing as she showed off her growing baby bump in a sparkly silver dress as she attended The Michael Josephson MBE Charity Ball in Manchester on Saturday night The Hollyoaks actress, 36, is expecting her second child with fiance Oliver Piotrowski after they welcomed their first child Forest, now 23 months, in December 2022 Talking about expanding her family Jorgie said: 'I think it's good because we don't have alot of family, so we want to create a big family unit. 'I think every woman feels pressure to go back to work or might feel guilty that they want to go back to work, so it's all a bit of a midfield, but I have the best support.' Oliver couldn't take his eyes off the blonde beauty as he lovingly touched her bump and looked into her eyes. It comes after the actress showed off some sweet snaps with her son Forest at the beginning of November, as her due date approaches. In the photos, the beauty lifted her black hoodie to reveal her blossoming bump, while Forest reached out to touch it. Mimicking his mum, he lifted his own shirt to show his tiny belly, as they both laughed for the playful snaps. Jorgie captioned the post: 'Whose bumps bigger? 'We had a wild Friday night comparing our bellies. Forest is obsessed with beeping my belly button. The sequin maxi dress featured long flared sleeves, feather cuffs and a crew neckline which Jorgie complimented styling her blonde locks in a sleek up do The star who is due in four weeks joked that the second time around wasn't any easier and that her little girl could arrive any minute so her hospital bag was packed in case of any emergency Michael Josephson pictured with Jorgie Porter at the event It comes after Jorgie showed off her growing baby bump in a series of sweet snaps with her son Forest earlier in the month In the photos, the beauty lifted her black hoodie to reveal her blossoming bump, while Forest reached out to touch it 'I think my belly has stretched soooo much more this time round. For those that have used them, what stretch mark creams and oils have worked for you?' It comes after Jorgie shared a slew of stunning nude pregnancy snaps as she cradled her baby bump in a pink ruffled chiffon dressing gown. She shared stunning professional pregnancy photos taken by photographer Kerry Spicer. In the third trimester snap, Jorgie was glowing as she stripped bare, wearing nothing except a chiffon dressing gown. Jorgie's cleavage was on display as she posed on a bar stool for the ethereal snaps, with her voluminous blonde locks tossed to one side. Jorgie recently revealed she's having a baby girl in an adorable Instagram post. The pregnant soap star made the exciting announcement with a series of snaps of herself enjoying a gender reveal party. Mimicking his mum, he lifted his own shirt to show his tiny belly, as they both laughed for the playful snaps The Hollyoaks actress, 36, is expecting eer second child with fiance Oliver Piotrowski, after they welcomed their first child Forest, now 23 months, in December 2022 (pictured at the BAFTAs on May 12) It comes after Jorgie shared a slew of stunning nude pregnancy snaps as she cradled her baby bump in a pink ruffled chiffon dressing gown She showed off her baby bump in a figure hugging white mini dress as she posed in her home holding up a balloon which read 'Boy or girl?'. Jorgie looked excited about her announcement as she beamed for the camera. In another photo, the blonde beauty was seen laughing as she held on to the balloons after announcing she was expecting a girl. The star also shared a video of an elaborate white frosted cake which had 'Coming soon...' written across the top in icing . Revealing her news, Jorgie posted a photo of the cake sliced up, showing a pink sponge inside before adding a video of her tucking into a slice of dessert. The actress smiled as she scooped up a bit on her fork from a glass and chomped away. Jorgie revealed she's having a baby girl in adorable post after enjoying an Italian babymoon with her fiance Oliver Revealing her news, Jorgie posted a photo of the cake sliced up, showing a pink sponge with pink icing inside The star captioned her post: 'Thank you sooooo much for all your messages! We still cant believe it 'Were having a GIRL 'P.S this cake was something else'. Jorgie's announcement comes just a month after the Hollyoaks alum enjoyed a romantic babymoon in Italy with Oliver. The couple seemed to be making the most of their alone time before baby number two arrives, as they jetted off to Rome for a long weekend in the sunshine last month. In one snap shared to her Instagram grid, Jorgie looked sensational in a white bandeau dress as she cradled her blossoming bump. She elevated her natural beauty with a flawless palette of makeup and wore her long blonde tresses down for the outing. Jorgie captioned the post with: 'A long weekend just us @olliepiotrowski Its not a glass of champagne, but itll do.' Domenica Calarco has revealed more details about her fallout with fellow MAFS alum and ex best friend, Ella Ding. Domenica, 31, and Ella, 30, pulled the plug on their podcast Sit With Us in August, and rumours have swirled that it was due to an interpersonal conflict. But on a recent episode of Domenica's new podcast Mad Woman, she explained where the rift with Ella really began. 'The breakdown of our friendship really started when the backlash from Sit With Us happened,' Dom began, referring to the controversial conversation the podcasters had with MAFS 2024 'villain' Jack Dunkley. The controversy erupted after Domenica and Ella faced criticism for their interview with Jack, who previously sparked outrage by telling co-star Jonathan McCullough to 'muzzle' his wife Lauren Dunn during a dinner party. The interview prompted a heated response from fellow media personality Abbie Chatfield, further intensifying the scrutiny on the podcast hosts at the time. Domenica said that herself and Ella 'had very differing opinions and views on the way to handle the situation. For me, I wanted to face it head on, I didn't want to bury my head in the sand.' At the time, Domenica's social media posts were inundated with comments from fans asking her to address the podcast controversy. Domenica Calarco (pictured) has revealed more details about her fallout with fellow MAFS alum Ella Ding. Domenica, 31, and Ella, 30, pulled the plug on their podcast Sit With Us in August, and rumours have swirled that it was due to an interpersonal conflict But on a recent episode of Domenica's new podcast Mad Woman, she explained where the rift with Ella (pictured right) really began. 'The breakdown of our friendship really started when the backlash from Sit With Us happened,' Dom began, referring to the controversial conversation the podcasters had with MAFS 'villain' Jack Dunkley While Domenica chose not to provide a statement during this period, she did assure several fans that she and Ella will be responding to the backlash 'very soon'. 'Don't get me wrong, I'm all for getting back on the horse...but when it's something as detrimental and f***ing huge as what we were dealing with, you can't just bury your head in the sand. It was making things worse. 'Justifiably, people were shocked that I wasn't saying anything. I wanted to so badly. But I was told by the greater powers that be, but also my co-host, "shut up, don't say anything. Ignore it. It's going to go away." I knew it my f***ing core this was not going away.' The interview with Dunkley prompted a heated response from fellow media personality Abbie Chatfield, further intensifying the scrutiny on the podcast hosts at the time. Domenica said that herself and Ella 'had very differing opinions and views on the way to handle the situation. For me, I wanted to face it head on, I didn't want to bury my head in the sand' Domenica concluded her monologue by advising her listeners to trust their instincts. 'Listen to your gut. Your gut will never lie to you.' It comes as Domenica and Ella have unfollowed each other on Instagram, marking the end of their nearly four-year friendship. Domenica concluded her monologue by advising her listeners to trust their instincts. 'Listen to your gut. Your gut will never lie to you' The pair confirmed that they are no longer on speaking terms, further fuelling rumours of a rift that have been circulating for months. The former MAFS stars both addressed the situation, confirming that their once-strong bond had come to a close. Speaking to Daily Mail Australia in September, Ella stated, 'I've got nothing to say but I wish her the best of course, always will. All good things come to an end.' Meanwhile, Domenica echoed her sentiments, saying, 'We definitely unfollowed each other. I don't even know where to begin.' This revelation follows reports that Ella had 'distanced herself' from Domenica during a difficult period when she was hospitalised. Sources close to the pair claimed that Ella treated Domenica 'like a mental patient' and acted as though she was a completely different person, which strained their relationship further. The news of their unfollowing came just a few days after the two were seen together in Sydney, quashing earlier rumours of a feud. Love Island star Anna McEvoy and her husband of six months Michael Staples are expecting their first child together. The reality TV star, 32, shared the exciting news to her Instagram on Sunday alongside a very sweet video montage. Clips saw the happy couple, who tied the knot in an intimate Greece ceremony in May, looking loved up as Anna flaunted her growing baby bump. The footage began with what appeared to be throwback footage of Anna and Michael as children, before it cut to Anna and Michael sitting in their car. 'The baby is ten weeks old and 3cms tall,' the podcast host said with a bright smile. Anna and her beau could then be seen taking a romantic stroll down the beach, hand-in-hand, as the mum-to-be wore a white crop top which showed off her bump. Love Island star Anna McEvoy, 32, (left) and her husband of six months Michael Staples (right) are expecting their first child together Other clips in the montage also featured sneak peeks of the lovebirds attending doctor's appointments, including an ultrasound. Michael could be heard saying: 'They said everything looks good.' 'We have been keeping a secret you're already so loved little one,' Anna captioned the video alongside #babystaples and #2025baby. She then went on to acknowledge 'how difficult posts like this can be for those experiencing infertility'. 'We are sending you all our love, that you will be holding a miracle baby in your arms soon,' she added. Anna and Michael's famous friends flocked to the comments to congratulate the happy couple on their baby news. AFL WAG Rebecca Judd shared her 'congrats' alongside Anna's podcast host Matt Zukowski. Former Bachelor star Alex Nation, shoe designer Lana Wilkinson and Married At First Sight star Lauren Dunn also shared their joy for the pair. Anna and Michael got married at a glamorous ceremony at Corfu in Greece earlier this year. The couple opted to hold their ceremony in May at the upmarket Courti Estate, described as a 'Luxury Corfu Villa' with nine bedrooms for guests. Anna looked gorgeous in a Alin Le' Kal wedding dress from the Melbourne couture designer. The reality TV star shared the exciting news to her Instagram on Sunday alongside a very sweet video montage Clips saw the happy couple, who tied the knot in an intimate Greece ceremony in May, looking loved up as Anna flaunted her growing baby bump The groom also chose a high end look, wearing a BELANCE tuxedo from the luxury tailoring brand based in Sydney. The couple were pelted with petals after they said 'I do' as the bride carried a white rose bouquet. 'Our wedding day at The Courti Estate was magical,' Anna told the Herald Sun at the time. 'It was the idyllic European wedding of our dreams, that turned out even better than we could have imagined. Michael and I couldn't be happier. 'So overwhelmed with love from our amazing family and friends, who travelled all the way to Greece to support us.' Earlier this year, Anna revealed on her podcast Where's Your Head At? that her Greek wedding is in fact not legally binding. 'I have a little secret. I have only decided this morning that I'm sharing this secret. Obviously we're getting married in Greece, as you know,' she began. She then went on to say that because the celebrant she chose for the wedding in Greece is not officially recognised, she decided to actually marry Michael back home in Australia before they left. Other clips in the montage also featured sneak peeks of the lovebirds attending doctor's appointments, including an ultrasound 'On the 28th of April, Michael and I went to the registry office with both of our parents in Melbourne. Our dads were the witnesses. It was actually a very special moment,' she said. Anna detailed the process of getting married in the registry office in Melbourne, explaining: 'It's a beautiful old building.' The cost of the marriage registry is $500 for either a 6-person or 50-person room. According to the influencer, the couple were made to stand in front of their parents and say 'I do' in unison. 'It was so awkward. Imagine your parents and your in-laws just staring at you and you and your partner are just standing there holding hands,' Anna said. Anna reflected that the entire experience at the registry office was overly formal and 'too serious'. 'It just felt too serious, it was giving me the ick a little bit,' she said, before telling Matt that she and Michael could only bring themselves to do a 'peck' for the kiss at the end of the ceremony. Anna revealed she'd was getting married on the Greek island of Corfu early last year, after getting engaged to Michael in October 2022. Anna and Michael's famous friends flocked to the comments to congratulate the happy couple on their baby news Anna and Michael got married at a glamorous ceremony at Corfu in Greece earlier this year Their wedding venue was part of a fully renovated nine-bedroom estate, where the bride and groom's family and close friends stayed. 'We put a deposit down on a wedding venue in Corfu, but Michael and I have both never been to Corfu,' she said on her podcast in 2023. The couple acknowledged a lot of people wouldn't be able to attend their wedding due to the distance. So an intimate engagement party for family and friends was held in April. Anna rose to fame on season two of Love Island Australia, and won the show with Josh Packham but they split in December 2020. California can tap allies from around the world in a potential fight with the U.S. government under a second Trump administration. James David Phenicie/Studio One-One/Getty Images 2022 Californians cant beat the Trump administration all by ourselves. We need allies. A whole wide world of them. Lets face facts. California, despite our size and power, isnt strong enough to win a protracted legal, political, financial and perhaps violent war with a lawless U.S. government. Advertisement Article continues below this ad And though its reassuring to see Gov. Gavin Newsom respond quickly to the Donald Trump threat a legislative special session, a trip to Washington the governor cant lead the Trump-proofing of California alone. His actions are viewed (often unfairly) through the prism of political ambition. And our anti-Trump effort cant be confined to the U.S., much of which doesnt seem to care that its next president has vowed to be a dictator and wanted to terminate the Constitution. Instead, we should adopt the wisdom of General-President Dwight Eisenhower: When you cant solve a big problem, make it bigger. To protect our democracy and our way of life, California needs its local officials and locally engaged citizens to connect to their counterparts around the world and build a planet-wide coalition of local governments, provinces and organizations that also face attacks from right-wing national governments. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The states, cities and communities that suffer under such leaders could benefit from their own coalition. The benefits would go beyond moral support. Local partners worldwide and in California could provide mutual aid, in the form of money, personnel or expertise, when crises arise. This will be especially important to California if Trump denies us emergency funding after natural disasters. I can imagine foreign cities sending staff to replace local officials who might get swept up in the mass detentions of enemies Trump has promised. Local governments elsewhere could use local tribunals and world bodies like the International Criminal Court to apply pressure on a U.S. government that commits crimes against its own citizens. But the greatest benefit from an alliance with local communities worldwide will be ideas. As more nations are consumed by political fights, the actual governance of countries is increasingly left to localities. And many local governments have responded to their national governments failures with innovations that could be applied here, in areas from democratic process to waste management. Trumps ludicrous Cabinet is built for politics, not real governance, so California will need all the ideas it can get to pick up the federal slack. Cities from Rio to Istanbul have much to teach us about prospering under autocratic national leaders. Activists in Seoul could explain how to use mass protests to force out lawless presidents, as they did in the 2017 Candlelight Revolution. California, with an outdated Constitution dating to 1879, could learn from sub-national entities from Mexico City to South Africas Western Cape about how to write modern charters. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Of course, if California joins forces with governments around the world, the xenophobic Trump administration will accuse us of globalism or treason or worse. We shouldnt flinch. We should answer that righteous Americans, facing threats from their national government, have often sought support overseas. After all, escaped slaves found refuge in communities in Canada and Mexico. And our Founding Fathers needed France and Spain to win their revolution against the bullying Britain. The good news is that California local governments wont have to start a coalition from scratch. The world has dozens of networks of localities. United Cities and Local Governments, the worlds largest organization of local governments and municipal associations, collaborate on all the issues upon which Trump is attacking California, from climate change to womens rights to the protection of migrants. The organization also just launched, under the leadership of The Hague city Mayor Jan van Zanen, A New Peace Agenda for Future Generations to bring together local governments taking action to end conflicts and wars between and inside countries. U.S. cities, which rarely join international networks, should jump on board. In fact, before Trump takes office, Californias state and local leaders should make a high-profile trip overseas. First, they can stop by The Hague to strategize with the mayor. Then they should visit local government leaders in Ukraine. Advertisement Article continues below this ad About Opinion Guest opinions in Open Forum and Insight are produced by writers with expertise, personal experience or original insights on a subject of interest to our readers. Their views do not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Chronicle editorial board, which is committed to providing a diversity of ideas to our readership. Read more about our transparency and ethics policies The message: Californians are in the same fight as Ukrainians against violent autocrats who claim the power to rule us, take away our people and destroy our communities. Kim Kardashian gave fans a peek at her makeup-free face on Saturday as she appeared on Instagram with new posts. The 44-year-old mogul who just collaborated with Dolce & Gabbana took to the app and uploaded a clip from her session with beauty maven Anastasia Soare, who heads the cosmetics company Anastasia Beverly Hills. Via Instagram Stories, Kim gave an up-close look at her seemingly bare visage, flaunting a clear and smooth complexion. She wrote atop the outtake, 'Brows Nite w @anastasiasoare @anastasiabeverlyhills.' Kardashian also posted a video from a visit to Epione skin care clinic, where she received a service from Dr. Simon Ourian. In a snippet that only showed a navy blue Epione bag set on a white counter, she wrote: 'Midnight laser. No one better than simonourianmd1.' Kim Kardashian gave fans a peek at her makeup-free face on Saturday as she appeared on Instagram with new posts The 44-year-old mogul took to the app and uploaded a clip from her session with beauty maven Anastasia Soare, who heads the cosmetics company Anastasia Beverly Hills; pictured in August The reality television personality giggled in the clip as she said, 'Who else comes in at midnight? For a midnight treatment?' 'I've never heard of this,' she joked. 'But I'm so appreciative.' It comes less than one week after she was spotted exiting the Beverly Hills office in a sleek black trench coat with stylist Danielle Levi and friend Brittny Gastineau. Kardashian is known for maintaining an impeccable image from head-to-toe, as her empire has been built around her beauty and sex appeal. And as the founder of her skincare line SKKN by Kim, the star is well-versed in keeping up a youthful glow. In 2022 she spoke with the New York Times about her nine-step cleansing system. And she admitted that she will 'try anything' to keep herself looking younger than her years. 'If you told me that I literally had to eat poop every single day and I would look younger, I might,' she joked at the time. 'I just might.' Kim was seen by Dr. Simon Ourian, who later shared a selfie on Instagram Kardashian's empire has been built around her beauty and sex appeal; pictured on November 2 The businesswoman recently been touted her SKKN brand's new collection of Silk Matte Lip Colors In addition to cleansers, serums, masks, and creams, SKKN also offers consumers makeup products. The businesswoman has recently touted the brand's collection of Silk Matte Lip Colors as well as SKKN HOLIDAY, which includes 'shimmers, metallics, and minis.' She also regularly promotes her SKIMS collection of underwear, lingerie, and loungewear. This week the mom-of-four revealed a brand new campaign in collaboration with the iconic D&G fashion house. Her sister Kourtney Kardashian joined her in promotional images that saw them channel retro Italian glamour. The photos were snapped by creative extraordinaire Nadia Lee Cohen. Jamie Oliver has shared a touching moment with an Aboriginal activist after his second children's book, Billy and the Epic Escape, was pulled from Australian shelves. The British chef, 49, made the decision to following condemnation of its 'damaging and disrespectful' Indigenous plot. Oliver sat down for an interview with 10 News First's Narelda Jacobs this week, during which he shared an embrace with Mundanara Bayles, the Managing Director and co-founder of the BlackCard. The pair had shared a long video call the day prior, during which they talked over the issues raised by the First Nations community, with Bayles admitting tears were shed through the emotional chat. 'I'm a massive believer that when in life you get things wrong, you can run away from it and just put your head under the soil and just pretend it didn't happen,' a clearly moved Oliver told Jacobs. 'I genuinely believe in this book, I genuinely believe in its intention and I'm going to take a moment to learn and then see what happens. Jamie Oliver (pictured) has shared a touching moment with an Aboriginal activist after his second children's book, Billy and the Epic Escape, was pulled from Australian shelves 'I'm going to learn, I'm going to reflect and my intention would be to do something special out of this.' Bayles said that some good had come of the entire episode, with Oliver 'shining a light globally' on the struggles of First Nations people in Australia. While Oliver said he had learned much through the process, it was nonetheless a 'painful' experience. 'It's been very painful this whole debacle. So I go home tonight having learnt some stuff and hopefully we're going to do something quite special from this moment of reflection.' Oliver said he had come to understand why there was backlash against the book. 'I understand it was offensive, and that's why it was even more painful to me, because that was never the intention,' he said. 'I didn't see... So I've had to learn about thatI never would have put those things together, and of course, I never would have seen them as stereotypes, but that's why we pulled it. So let's pull it. Let's take a beat. Let's reflect.' Oliver has issued two apologies over his fantasy novel, that sees its villain abduct a young Aboriginal girl from foster care in a chapter titled 'To Steal a Child'. The British chef sparked backlash when his book (pictured) saw the villain abduct a young Aboriginal girl from foster care in a story which First Nations communities deemed 'damaging' and 'disrespectful 'It wasn't designed for any reasonobviously my knowledge of the stolen nation wasn't there,' he said. '[If it had been] I wouldn't have written it quite like that,' he said. 'It really wasn't in my mind connected with any knowledge of the terrible things that have happened in Australia's history.' Billy And The Epic Escape came under fire from The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Corporation (NATSIEC). The education body called for the book, a 400-page fantasy novel for primary school children, to be removed from circulation. The Natsiec chief executive, Sharon Davis, criticised implications that First Nations families 'are easily swayed by money and neglect the safety of their children'. Last Sunday, Oliver and publisher Penguin Random House UK announced they had pulled the book from shelves in all countries where it holds rights, including the UK and Australia. This news came after Oliver issued an own apology for 'stereotyping' Indigenous Australians in his second children's book, which was published in May. 'I am devastated to hear I have caused offence and wholly apologise for doing so,' Oliver told The Guardian in a statement. 'I am listening and reflecting and working closely with my publisher on next steps.' The celebrity chef is currently in Australia promoting his latest cookbook, Simply Jamie. 'It was never my intention to misinterpret this deeply painful issue,' he said. 'Together with my publishers we have decided to withdraw the book from sale.' Notably, the chapter titled To Steal a Child appears to be a reference to The Stolen Generations, a dark period of history where the children of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders were removed from their families by the Australian federal and state government. Oliver sat down for an interview with 10 News First's Narelda Jacobs (far left) this week, during which he shared an embrace with Mundanara Bayles (centre), the Managing Director and co-founder of the BlackCard 'I'm a massive believer that when in life you get things wrong, you can run away from it and just put your head under the soil and just pretend it didn't happen,' a moved Oliver told Jacobs For about a century, thousands of Aboriginal children were systematically taken from their families, communities and culture. 'These children were taken by the police; from their homes; on their way to or from school,' per the Healing Foundation. 'They were placed in over 480 institutions, adopted or fostered by non-Indigenous people and often subjected to abuse. 'The children were denied all access to their culture, they were not allowed to speak their language and they were punished if they did. The impacts of this are still being felt today.' '[It] perpetuates a racist stereotype that has been used to justify child removals for over a century,' NAITSEC chief executive Davis said. 'This portrayal is not only offensive but also reinforces damaging biases.' Oliver and his publisher have admitted that there was no consultation with Indigenous Australians prior to the book's publication. Penguin Random House UK apologised for the 'editorial oversight.' Davies said the book 'perpetuated harmful stereotypes' and that its depiction of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders was 'irresponsible'. Billy And The Epic Escape came under fire from The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Corporation (NATSIEC) 'We urge Penguin Books and Jamie Oliver to recognise the impact of their content and take swift action to prevent further harm,' she told The Guardian. 'Penguin Books should pull Billy and the Epic Escape from circulation, specifically removing all content involving First Nations characters and cultural references.' The book is Oliver's 2024 follow-up to his 2023 children's book debut, Billy and the Giant Adventure. The story takes place in England, but features a subplot of a young First Nations girl who is living in foster care, before being stolen by the book's antagonist from her Indigenous community, near Alice Springs. The book also contained errors because Oliver had attempted to use Indigenous words from the Arrernte language of Alice Springs and the Gamilaraay people of NSW and Queensland. Oliver is currently in Australia to present a live chat about his new book Simply Jamie at Sydney's Coliseum dubbed Jamie Oliver: The Joy of Cooking. Oliver first rose to fame on The Naked Chef cooking show, which ran from 1999 to 2001. His television and publishing career has seen him sell more than 46million books globally, and reach an estimated worldwide TV audience of 67million. Nova radio host Tim Blackwell has revealed the most 'intimidating' stars he has ever met throughout his decades long showbusiness career. The drive show star, 43, admitted on Sunday he felt very nervous meeting Josh Homme from Queens of the Stone Age and Robert Smith from The Cure. He interviewed the former 'backstage at a show in Brisbane' and confessed he was intimidated by the rocker's towering 6'4" height, reported News.com.au. 'I interviewed [Josh, 51] backstage at a show in Brisbane and he was walking around with a bottle of Jagermeister in his hand, just swigging from the bottle,' Tim said. 'That was pretty hardcore. And then I got to meet Robert Smith from The Cure and just visually, he is very intimidating. 'He rocks the makeup and he's just kind of got that punk rock attitude. I said a few words to him and he was very, very softly spoken and very straight to the point.' Nova radio host Tim Blackwell, 43, (pictured) revealed the most 'intimidating' stars he has ever met throughout his decades long showbusiness career were Josh Homme and Robert Smith Despite being intimidated by Robert's appearance at first, Tim said his nerves were eased when he saw the British punk rocker, 65, attempt to make a toasted sandwich. The radio personality, who is set to be the host of this year's ARIAs, said watching Robert make a sandwich made him realise the rocker was 'just one of us'. Tim added that it was 'quite a cute moment'. It comes after the Nova FM star was named as the host for the 2024 ARIA Awards, which will take place on November 20 at Sydney's iconic Hordern Pavilion. The popular radio presenter will be joined by co-hosts Bridget Hustwaite, Latifa Tee, Christian Wilkins, and Rhys Nicholson. Tim, a mainstay on Nova's drive-time show Ricki-Lee, Tim, and Joel, has been one of Australia's top radio personalities since 2001. Known for his charismatic style, he's excited to bring his energy to the ARIAs stage. Reflecting on the role, Tim said: 'The ARIA Awards represent the pinnacle of Australia's music industry.' Tim interviewed Josh, 51, (pictured) from Queens of the Stone Age, 'backstage at a show in Brisbane' and confessed he was intimidated by the rocker's towering 6'4" height 'I'm thrilled to be part of the ARIAs and to help celebrate that talent this year,' he added. Some of Australias most recognised artists and presenters will be hitting the red carpet, including: Ava Max, Missy Higgins, CYRIL and 3%. Jessica Mauboy, Julian Hamilton from The Presets, Amy Shark. Kane Brown, Artemas, Budjerah, Concetta Caristo and Luka Muller are also set to make an appearance. This year's nominees feature some of Australia's biggest stars and rising talents. Pop icon Kylie Minogue has received five nominations, including Album of the Year and Best Solo Artist for her latest hit album Tension. Her record-breaking album, along with its popular title track, has also landed her nominations for Best Pop Release and Song of the Year. Kylie, 56, will go head-to-head with big names like The Kid LAROI, Tones and I, Troye Sivan, and Dom Dolla in the Best Solo Artist category. She will also battle against Amy Shark, Angie McMahon, and Royel Otis for Album of the Year. 'Then I got to meet Robert Smith, 65, (pictured) from The Cure and just visually, he is very intimidating. He rocks the makeup and he's just kind of got that punk rock attitude,' Tim said They are followed closely behind by Dom Dolla, who has secured six nominations including for best solo artist, best electronic release and song of the year. Meanwhile, Troye, Tones and I, First Nations hip hop collective 3%, Amy Shark, Rufus Du Sol and The Kid LAROI have all landed four nominations. Confidence Man and FISHER have also been recognised in three categories, with the winners set to be crowned at the Hordern Pavilion on November 20. The 2024 Aria Awards in partnership with YouTube showcase the best of Australia's music talents and will air live from 5pm AEDT on Stan. Director Ridley Scott has revealed if there will be a third Gladiator film. The filmmaker, 86, has told in a new interview he is already making plans for another movie just days after Gladiator II's worldwide release. The sequel stars Irish actor Paul Mescal and Denzel Washington and has been lauded by critics as 'watchable and spectacular'. Speaking to The Times Ridley spoke about his future projects which also include a western inspired by The Proposition and a new thriller. Asked if he has started Gladiator III he said: 'I've written 12 pages' - before confirming he has also started drawing his storyboards. Director Ridley Scott has revealed if there will be a third Gladiator film (seen with leading man Paul Mescal) The filmmaker, 86, has told in a new interview he is already making plans for another movie just days after Gladiator II's worldwide release It comes after Gladiator II critics declared that Denzel 'stole the entire' picture as they heaped praise on his electrifying performance. Though Paul, 28, takes the lead in the action-packed blockbuster as the vengeful Roman Empire heir-turned-Gladiator, it's Denzel's portrayal as the sly and ambitious Mecrinus that has everyone talking. The Hollywood star, 69, has been lauded for his 'pure camp' line delivery, with it being said that Denzel is 'palpably revelling' in playing the 'smug, self-satisfied schemer.' Meanwhile, Paul, who first shot to fame in 2020's Normal People, is said to be the 'pumping heart of the movie' who 'exudes charisma and testosterone'. Though critics have been somewhat divided by Scott's latest offering with some noting that it doesn't quite live up to the film's original, overall, Gladiator II has been seen as a triumph, with one noting that it's 'watchable and spectacular'. The Daily Mail's Brian Viner notes that while the sequel falls short of its masterpiece predecessor, it is still 'heaps of farfetched and ferocious fun.' He writes: 'Even though this sequel rarely scales the soaring heights of the first film, and takes some right Roman liberties with historical truths, it is still worthy of a firm-ish thumbs-up. 'Giving the blockbuster four stars, he continues: 'Certainly, Lucius is not cowed by anything the Colosseum can throw at him, from killer baboons to, in a cinematic flourish all but guaranteed to make historians of ancient Rome throw their textbooks at the screen, a saddled-up warrior-rhinoceros. The sequel stars Irish actor Paul Mescal and Denzel Washington (left) and has been lauded by critics as 'watchable and spectacular' Asked if he has started Gladiator III he said: 'I've written 12 pages' - before confirming he has also started drawing his storyboards It comes after Gladiator II critics declared that Denzel 'stole the entire' picture as they heaped praise on his electrifying performance 'And let's not even start on the savage sharks brought in to pep up the recreation of a naval battle. 'Meanwhile, Rome has become a cesspit of depravity and corruption under the rotten rule of slimy emperors Geta (Joseph Quinn) and his twin Caracalla (Fred Hechinger). 'Hechinger is said to have modelled Caracalla on Johnny Rotten, while the syphilitic Geta was reportedly inspired in part by Sid Vicious. Having warmed to the rhino and the sharks I'm all for this unlikely fusion of ancient Rome and the Sex Pistols. 'The emperors' over-the-top ghastliness borders on the comedic but then it's best not to take any of this seriously.' Brian concludes: 'Yes, Scott's lofty disregard for historical verities extends even to his own narrative but let's not hold that against him. At the age of 86, the old boy still knows how to craft a sword-and-sandals epic, so to hell with the facts.' Meanwhile, the Guardian's Peter Bradshaw suggests that Denzel was the stand-out star of the film, writing: 'As the slave-owner and slave-trainer, Denzel Washington inherits Oliver Reed's role; he plays the cunning and ambitious Macrinus, who plans to parlay his warlord status into political power, a Roman Yevgeny Prigozhin. 'In fact Washington almost steals the entire picture as Macrinus shrewdly exploits the gambling addiction of Tim McInnerny's weak and duplicitous Senator Thraex. 'It is Washington who gets the line that might yet be this film's social-media meme as he hisses into Thraex's cringing face: 'That, my friend, is politicsssssss ah!'' Empire's Boyd Hilton is in firm agreement that Denzel's scenes upstages all others, writing: 'Washington practically steals the whole film, by the way, palpably revelling in the chance to let rip as a smug, self-satisfied schemer of the highest order. Some of his line-readings are pure camp.' However, The Times' Kevin Maher was not entertained by film, awarding it only two stars. Sharing his thoughts, he declared that Ridley Scott's sequel is the 'most disappointing 'legacy sequel' (aka belated follow-up) since Prometheus. It's a scattershot effort with half-formed characters (with one exception) and undernourished plotlines that seem to exist only in conversation with the Russell Crowe original.' Though he describes Paul as a 'versatile actor', he adds his character is 'shaky at best' who 'consistently struggles to enliven the gig'. But like others, praise is given to Denzel and his portrayal of Macrinus, with Maher adding of the character: 'He is witty, sly, bisexual, nakedly ambitious and burdened by a torturous past. Whenever he is on screen the movie ignites.' Likewise, The Independent's Patrick Smith wasn't too fond of the film branding it an 'awful mess', but agrees that Denzel is the saviour of the swords and sandals flick - him and a monkey. He pens of the Hollywood star: 'Denzel Washington, as a slave-owner with soaring ambitions, is deliciously sly, stealing every scene and generally putting all the actors to shame. He's the film's only real winner, apart perhaps from Caracalla's pet monkey, who lights up the screen. Echoing other reviewers, The Standard's Nick Curtis identifies Denzel as a highlight of the film, writing: 'If Mescal is the pumping heart of the movie, its characterful head is Denzel Washington as Macrinus, a wolfishly grinning, bejewelled gladiator trainer with his own agenda. 'Washington lights up every scene he's in and effectively drives the plot, and the plotting. (Macrinus has a handy senatorial sidekick who should be called Expositus, but isn't.) His glowing review extends to that of director Ridley Scott, as he remarked: 'The new film is another polished, action-packed, historical blockbuster from the directorial powerhouse, who turns 87 this month and shows no sign of slowing.' The Hollywood star, 69, has been lauded for his 'pure camp' line delivery, with it being said that Denzel is 'palpably revelling' in playing the 'smug, self-satisfied schemer' Gladiator II follows Lucius Verus (Paul), the former heir to the Roman Empire who is forced into slavery and eventually pushed to fight in the Colosseum in an effort to restore glory. With Russell Crowe's legendary Maximus long-since dead and buried, it is vengeful Lucius (Paul) who must fight for his liberty in the film after being taken into slavery and ripped away from his wife and daughter by general Marcus (Pedro Pascal). As part of Lucius' plan for revenge, he risks his life to fight in the arena for Macrinus (Washington), a former slave. Macrinus' uses Lucius as part of his plan to overthrow the dual emperors Geta and Caracalla, as he hopes to assume their throne. Pat Shortt has paid tribute to his D'Unbelievables parter with a heartwarming social media post, following his tragic death aged 66. The Irish comedian and actor passed away at a hospital in Galway on Friday evening following a battle with cancer, his wife Margy has said. He had previously recovered from non-Hodgkins lymphoma in his 40s but announced in 2020 that his cancer had returned. Jon, a Limerick native, shot to fame in the 1990s as one half of the comedy duo D'Unbelievables, playing a number of off-the-wall Irish characters alongside Pat. Taking to Instagram on Saturday, his co-star Pat quipped: 'We are all devastated with the news of Jon Passing and our thoughts are with Margy Aaron and Leah. I was lucky to spend so many years touring with Jon and learning from him. 'Creating some great shows and videos. Hilarious hours in the rehersal room and playing great tunes. But sitting in the kitchen with Margy and Caroline just having the craic in Lough Gur will never be forgotten. Thanks Jon.' Pat Shortt has paid tribute to his D'Unbelievables parter with a heartwarming social media post, following his tragic death aged 66 (pictured together in 1998) The Irish comedian and actor passed away at a hospital in Galway on Friday evening , following a battle with cancer, his wife Margy has said (Jon pictured in 2014) The comedian also included a reel of some of the duo's best moments from throughout the years. Fans rushed to the comments of the touching post to share their condolences, writing: 'Heartbreaking news, there's not a house in rural Ireland that hadn't the three tapes played over and over. It was great to see ye make an appearance in Achill too. God rest him. 'Ye 2 boys made me sick from laughing throughout the 90s. Absolute legends. Certainly don't make them like that anymore RIP Jon.' 'm so sorry to you and all Jons family and friends. The two of you together were my childhood and teenage years. I have never repeated anyones lines like I have both of yours bad laughed so much. Such a shock, an absolute legend.' 'Well whatever move I made one of the famous lines in Irish comedy. So sad to hear of Jons passing. Thanks so much for all the laughs!' 'D'Unbelievables captured the characters of rural Ireland. Jon was such a talented performer.' 'Comedy genius, an irish legend, a part of everyones house growing up. Rest in peace Jon.' Jon also made cameos in Channel 4 sitcom Father Ted and recently had a role in Oscar-winning movie The Banshees of Inisherin. He wrote: 'Sitting in the kitchen with Margy and Caroline just having the craic in Lough Gur will never be forgotten. Thanks Jon' Jon, a Limerick native, shot to fame in the 1990s as one half of the comedy duo D'Unbelievables, playing a number of off-the-wall Irish characters alongside Pat. Taking to Instagram on Saturday, Pat quipped: 'We are all devastated with the news of Jon Passing and our thoughts are with Margy Aaron and Leah' The comedian also included a reel of some of Jon's best moments from throughout the years Paying tribute, Jon's heartbroken family said: 'Jon grabbed life and shook it as hard as he could, getting every ounce of fun, madness and love from it - his wit, humour, generosity and kindness will outlast his passing.' 'The memories and stories of those who knew him will be his legend.' They said he suffered a cardiac arrest in the early hours of Sunday and did not regain consciousness, RTE has reported. In March, Jon opened up about his first cancer diagnosis - which came when D'Unbelievables was at the peak of its success. Speaking to Oliver Callan on RTE Radio One, he said: 'It was tiring and wearing but it was fun and, well, I nearly killed myself. 'I got cancer at the beginning of 2000 and I had no choice but to take a step back. Over the space of two years I was on different forms of treatment.' Tributes have poured in for the legendary comedian, who had been due to perform at The Schoolyard Theatre in Charleville on Saturday. Taoiseach Simon Harris said Jon was a 'gifted performer and an extremely deep thinker.' In March, Jon opened up about his first cancer diagnosis - which came when D'Unbelievables was at the peak of its success Jon also made cameos in Channel 4 sitcom Father Ted (above) and recently had a role in Oscar-winning movie The Banshees of Inisherin Fans rushed to the comments of the touching post to share their condolences 'Jon had the ability, that very few people possess, to make his audiences crack up laughing with a glance or a single word,' he said. 'Behind that seemingly effortless talent to joke, there was a gifted performer and an extremely deep thinker. 'Jon was an interesting and thoughtful person, he had some stunning dramatic performances on stage and on screen and the country is still in stitches from the magic that was D'Unbelievables.' 'I was in his native Limerick last night when word of his death came through and to say he is beloved, is a huge understatement. 'I personally admired the honest and reflective way Jon spoke about illness with Oliver Callan on radio earlier this year. Like everything he did, it was very human and very real. 'To Jon's family, friends and huge circle of colleagues and peers, I am truly sorry for your loss.' Deputy Irish premier Micheal Martin said: 'Deeply saddened at the passing of Jon Kenny, one of our most iconic actors and comedians. 'Through the D'Unbelievables, and his appearances on stage and on screen, Jon made us smile. 'He was an entertainer to his core. Deepest sympathies to his wife Margie and family at this time.' Gabrielle Union has been torn to shreds online by trolls after she dramatically decided to leave X following Donald Trump's victory. The Bring It On star abruptly announced she was leaving the platform on Friday in a lengthy post titled 'It's Been Real!' before explaining to fans that it was a case of 'enough is enough.' Union, 52, said that 'with the return of volatile figures' she found herself with no choice but to leave her fans to find her on Instagram, Threads, TikTok, BlueSky, Spill and Facebook. She signed off by saying 'Let's keep spreading love and light to one another in the ways that truly matter.' Users were quick to attack the actress for her departure, as many revealed they didn't know who she was, and weren't affected by her decision. 'Nobody cares Gabriella. Kick rocks girl,' one wrote. Gabrielle Union, 52, has faced harsh backlash after dramatically announcing she was leaving X on Friday '@itsgabrielleu Didn't know you were on X and I won't notice that you are gone,' another user said. Another noted: 'You guys [Democrats] are such bad losers. Get out already!' Others were left annoyed by her decision to post about why she was leaving. 'You arent an airline. No need to announce your departure,' one said. Another wrote: 'No need to announce. Bye.' Since her announcement, Union's X account has remained active, leaving many even more confused. 'Delete your account first,' someone said. 'Deleting your Twitter account would be a great first step' another wrote. Union's decision came not only after Trump was elected the 47th president of the US, but after Musk - the owner of X - was chosen to run a new agency under the Republican administration. Trump revealed last week that Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy will 'dismantle' the $6.5 trillion bloated U.S. bureaucracy by spearheading the new 'Department of Government Efficiency' (DOGE). After it became clear that Elon would join Trump in his second term, other celebrities decided to wipe their X accounts. Thriller author Stephen King announced he was leaving X on Thursday as the social media platform had become 'too toxic' for him. The King of Horror, 77, shared a departing statement via his account, following rumors that Musk, 53, banned him from the platform. 'I'm leaving Twitter. Tried to stay, but the atmosphere has just become too toxic. Follow me on Threads, if you like,' he wrote. The day prior the author dispelled speculation about Musk kicking him off X, after he made a joke about the billionaire's friendship with President-elect Trump. 'I see there's a rumor going around that I called the Musk-man Trump's new first lady. I didn't, but only because I didn't think of it,' he wrote on Wednesday. Her departure came just after Donald Trump was announced as the 47th president of the United States, and after Elon Musk - the owner of X - was chosen to run a new agency under the Republican administration 'There's also a rumor going around that Muskie kicked me off Twitter. Yet here I am,' King added. King was referring to recent Musk memes, which were AI generated, and depicted the tech entrepreneur as Trump's First Lady. According to the Daily Dot, the memes started after Musk was featured in a Trump family photo. They then gathered steam when a false rumor was spread that King had been banned from X for referring to Musk as 'Trump's First Lady.' Jamie Lee Curtis has also joined the mass exodus of Hollywood stars leaving the platform. The 65-year-old Freaky Friday actress made the announcement on Wednesday on another social media site: Instagram. Unlike others, Curtis appears to have completely deactivated her account, rather than leaving it up while ceasing to post. Curtis announced her news in an Instagram post featuring a screenshot that was apparently taken from her X account on her phone. 'Your account is deactivated,' it read, with 'Sorry to see you go. #GoodBye' in smaller text at the bottom. Curtis, who has been open about her past struggles with drug and alcohol addiction, quoted the serenity prayer in her caption. Thriller author Stephen King announced he was leaving X on Thursday as the social media platform had become 'too toxic' for him 'God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change. Courage to change the things I can. And the wisdom to know the difference,' she wrote of giving up X. The Halloween star didn't specifically state her reasons for leaving the controversial platform, though many users believe it has to do with Musk's closeness to Trump and the president-elect's victory. Actress Alyssa Milano, 51, also announced she was leaving on Thursday, posting a screenshot of her deactivated account on Instagram. 'Goodbye, X. Hello, Blue Sky,' she wrote in her caption, in reference to the competing social network Bluesky, which recently became the top-ranked social media app on the Apple charts. The upstart service has gained an influx of at least 700,000 new users since the US presidential election, The Guardian reported on Monday. Television journalist Don Lemon also parted ways with the platform. Like Union, he issued a statement on X, though it wasn't clear if he planned to deactivate his account in the future, or if he would stop posting while leaving his archive visible for his followers. Jamie Lee Curtis, 65, (left) also left the platform on Wednesday. Actress Alyssa Milano, 51, (right) chose to leave as well Television journalist Don Lemon also parted ways with the platform, and issued a statement about it on X 'I've loved connecting with all of you on X, but it's time for me to leave the platform,' he began on what looked like a photocopy of The Don Lemon Show stationery. He said he no longer believed that X was a 'place for honest debate and discussion, transparency, and free speech.' Lemon also attributed his decision to X's new terms of service, which are set to go into effect on Friday, November 15. The site is following the path of many corporations in forcing users who try to take it to court to have their cases heard in 'the US District Court for the Northern District of Texas or state courts located in Tarrant County, Texas.' 'As the Washington Post recently reported on X's decision to change the terms, this "ensures that such lawsuits will be heard in courthouses that are a hub for conservatives, which experts say could make it easier for X to shield itself from litigation and punish critics,"' Lemon continued. 'I think that speaks for itself.' He concluded his post with a list of his other social media accounts for fans to find him at, adding, 'I hope you will join me there.' She never puts a foot wrong when it comes to fashion. And Eva Longoria cut a stylish figure as she attended a charity wine auction in Vougeot, France, on Saturday night. The actress, 49, opted for a busty maroon dress with ruched detailing as she made the radiant public appearance. The annual event was the 164th Hospices de Beaune wine auction which this year was benefitting Medecins Sans Frontieres. Eva showed off her incredible curves in the gorgeous dress which featured flower and silk detailing and was accessorised with silver jewellery. Eva Longoria cut a stylish figure as she attended a charity wine auction in Vougeot, France on Saturday night The actress, 49, opted for a busty maroon dress with ruched detailing as she made the radiant public appearance with Spanish-French actor Jean Reno She wore her brunette tresses in loose waves and opted for a glowing, bronzed makeup look. Eva was joined by Spanish-French actor Jean Reno at the event, 76, where she was inducted into the brotherhood of the Knights of Tastevin as part of proceedings. Alongside the two international celebrities, The Crown's Dominic West and French actress and director Zabou Breitman were also patrons of the event this year. Each year the event attracts the attention of wine lovers and philanthropists to raise funds for humanitarian causes. The profits from the sale this year will be donated to both the Global Gift Foundation, represented by Eva and Jean and Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), supported by Zabou and Dominic. It comes after Eva broke her silence on the disappointment of Donald Trump winning the US election. 'The shocking part is not that he won... It's that a convicted criminal who spews so much hate could hold the highest office,' said the Desperate Housewives actress to Marie Claire magazine. 'I would like to think our fight continues... If he keeps his promises, it's going to be a scary place,' added the cover girl who posed for Felix Valiente. The annual event was the 164th Hospices de Beaune wine auction which this year was benefitting Medecins Sans Frontieres Eva showed off her incredible curves in the gorgeous dress which featured flower and silk detailing and was accessorised with silver jewellery The star wore her brunette tresses in loose waves and opted for a glowing, bronzed makeup look Eva was joined by Spanish-French actor Jean Reno at the event, 76, where she was inducted into the brotherhood of the Knights of Tastevin as part of proceedings Alongside the two international celebrities, The Crown's Dominic West (left) and French actress and director Zabou Breitman were also patrons of the event this year Each year the event attracts the attention of wine lovers and philanthropists to raise funds for humanitarian causes The profits from the sale this year will be donated to both the Global Gift Foundation, represented by Eva and Jean and Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), supported by Zabou and Dominic It comes after Eva broke her silence on the disappointment of Donald Trump winning the US election She chatted to and hugged Jean at the event They shared a friendly embrace Eva had campaigned hard for Kamala Harris to win the presidential election. She was joined by longtime friend George Clooney in the interview. Clooney and Longoria have fundraised together and connected over their mutual involvement in political activism. He is adamant that in that time he has been more fan than mentor. 'She kicked ass,' he continues, referring to her work on Flamin' Hot, about a janitor who helped created the classic chip. 'Talent doesn't sustain you in this business. It requires hard work, determination, and brass balls. We know countless stars who flamed out. The reason she's still so relevant is because she won't take no for an answer,' he said. Also in the interview Eva talked about turning 50. 'For me, age is just a number, but I'm excited... I refuse to believe my greatest success is behind me,' said the brunette beauty from Texas. Ruth Langsford couldn't wipe the radiant smile off her face as she was snapped leaving leaving restaurant 34 Mayfair with her pal Lizzie Cundy on Saturday night. The Loose Women host, 64, looked over the moon while leaving the swanky place in London after partying it all up with friends ahead of her I'm A Celebrity stint. For her outing, the TV favourite sported a classy all-black look featuring a chic blazer with rhinestone embellishments and matching trousers. Ruth completed the elegant look with a clutch bag and open-toe heels, both of a eye-catching silver metallic shade. The presenter was glowing, flashing a smile on her way out as she was followed by glamorous Lizzie. Meanwhile the socialite, 56, turned heads in a fashionable all-red ensemble, catching the eye as she strutted her stuff. Ruth Langsford, 64, couldn't wipe a radiant smile off her face as she was snapped leaving leaving restaurant 34 Mayfair with pal Lizzie Cundy, 56, on Saturday night The Loose Women host looked over the moon while leaving the swanky place in central London after partying it all up with friends ahead of her I'm A Celebrity surprise stint The former WAG boosted her toned physique in a shimmery long-sleeve mini dress, teamed with thigh-high heel pointy boots. Lizzie finished off her head-turning ensemble with a large Dior tote bag, appearing in great spirits after the lavish dinner. It comes after reports emerged that Ruth will be whisking off to Australia later this month to appear on I'm A Celeb spin-off show Unpacked, as she navigates the fallout from her split with husband Eamonn Holmes. The ITV alum will join the program to support her co-star Jane Moore, 62, who is a contestant in this year's ITV series. The trip comes as Eamonn, also 64, has been seen publicly with his new partner, Katie Alexander, 43, while Ruth showcased a fresh look with blonde hair extensions. A source revealed to The Sun that the opportunity to join the spin-off show had been a welcome distraction for Ruth during a challenging year. They said: 'It's been a tough year for Ruth and she's been putting her best foot forward, she's thrilled to have been asked to appear on this the spin off show and fly to Australia ahead of Christmas. The insider added that Ruth is eager to support Jane, saying: 'She's rooting for Jane and can't wait to give her opinion on how she is getting on. For her outing, the TV favourite sported a classy all-black look featuring a chic blazer with rhinestone embellishments She added matching smart trousers and completed the elegant look with a clutch bag and open-toe heels, both of a eye-catching silver metallic shade The presenter was glowing, flashing a smile on her way out, finishing off dainty hoop earrings Ruth was followed by glamorous Lizzie, who turned heads in a fashionable all-red ensemble, catching the eye as she strutted her stuff The former WAG boosted her toned physique in a shimmery long-sleeve mini dress, teamed with thigh-high heel pointy boots 'The production team are particularly excited they have landed Ruth to join them as they think she'll be amazing and give the new format a boost.' Ruth's involvement is expected to add star power to the revamped spin-off as she joins the production in Australia ahead of the festive season. Meanwhile Eamonn shared his gratitude and opened up on his 'tough year' as he attended his first event with his new girlfriend last week. He has battled many health woes this year and recently revealed he 'can no longer walk or look after himself.' After surgery on his back in 2022 for a slipped disc, the GB News host has not been able to walk unaided and often relies on a wheelchair. Speaking at the event Eamonn admitted he was glad to see the end of 2024, while being supported by his girlfriend. Speaking to The Sun On Sunday, he said: 'Its been a tough year and Ill be glad to see the back of it.' He added: 'But there are lots of things to be grateful for and I hope that my health improves next year.' It comes after reports emerged that Ruth will be whisking off to Australia later this month to appear on I'm A Celeb spin-off show Unpacked, as she navigates the fallout from her split with husband Eamonn Holmes The ITV alum will join the program to support her co-star Jane Moore, 62 (pictured) - who is a contestant in this year's ITV series Ruth showed off her brand new hairstyle on Friday after her ex husband Eamonn Holmes attended his first public event with his girlfriend Katie Alexander Eammon and Katie made their first appearance as a couple at The Irish Post Awards, but the former GMB presenter requested that photographers not take pictures of them together. Eamonn and Ruth announced their plans to divorce in June after 14 years of marriage and 27 years together. Now, Katie, who enjoyed a romantic cruise with the TV star earlier this year, has told friends she is in for 'the long haul' with Eamonn. She has been helping Eamonn through the split from Ruth, but her friends say she is at pains to point out that their friendship has only grown close once the marriage was over in May. Dani Imbert sent temperatures soaring in a skimpy patterned bikini as she posed for a number of sizzling Instagram snaps during a Dubai holiday on Sunday. The TOWIE star, 26, flaunted the results of her recent boob job and BBL surgery as she posed up a storm on the beach. Dani showcased her jaw-dropping figure in the triangle bikini top and matching tie side thong bottoms as she turned away from the camera. Leaving her long blonde curled tresses loose, the TV personality posed in the sand as the sunset. In another snap, the reality star slipped into a racy green tiger print bikini as she posed up a storm by her lavish hotel swimming pool. Dani Imbert sent temperatures soaring in a skimpy patterned bikini as she posed for a number of sizzling Instagram snaps during a Dubai holiday on Sunday The TOWIE star, 26, flaunted the results of her recent boob job and BBL surgery as she posed up a storm on the beach Dani was keen to note her procedures as she penned: 'The difference is clear.' Fans quickly took to the comments to say Dani looked 'unreal' and 'absolutely gorgeous'. Dani jetted off to Turkey to get a BBL after growing tired of her 'pancake' body. She was just one of thousands of women seeking to get a more pronounced posterior, like that sported by Kim Kardashian, by injecting fat from elsewhere in the body into the buttocks to give them a larger, curvier form. But Dani's surgery wasn't without complications, as the star revealed she was at 'death's door' following the procedure. Talking to OK! magazine following her operation, she described how she was left 'crying everyday' and 'swollen for weeks'. Dani, who joined the TOWIE cast in 2021, said: 'I didn't realise how long the recovery was. You can't sit down after having it done. 'I was lying on my front or kneeling for eight weeks and couldn't even put on my shoes or socks for six weeks.' Dani showcased her jaw-dropping figure in the triangle bikini top and matching tie side thong bottoms as she turned away from the camera Leaving her long blonde curled tresses loose, the TV personality posed in the sand as the sunset In another snap, the reality star slipped into a racy green tiger print bikini as she posed up a storm by her lavish hotel swimming pool Dani soaked up the sun as she dipped her feet into the swimming pool Dani was keen to note her procedures as she penned: 'The difference is clear' Fans quickly took to the comments to say Dani looked 'unreal' and 'absolutely gorgeous' But Dani also confessed to loving her new look, saying that she just 'wanted a bit more meat on my bottom half'. It comes after Dani finished filming The Only Way Is Essex series 34 last month at Bar & Beyond Nightclub in Chelmsford, Essex. Dani cut a risque figure in an olive green co-ord which showcased her toned midriff in flared satin trousers, which accentuated her figure and featured a v-shaped dip. She flaunted her ample assets in a matching busty bralette, before finishing off her night-out look with a gold snake print handbag and heels. Dani wore her long locks in voluminous curls, seeming to be in high spirits for the end of filming. Jamie Foxx revealed he has a new perspective on life after surviving a near-death 'medical complication' that put him in a 20-day coma and left him unable to walk. On Saturday night, the actor, 56, shared a scenic photo of himself riding a brown and white horse on a picturesque beach in front of an orange sky at sunset. The Texas native looked like the picture of health as he rode alongside the ocean while rocking a black graphic t-shirt, several chain necklaces and white sneakers. 'The sunset looks different to me now got a ride it out What had happened was,' he captioned the image. In response to one comment from a fan saying they were so happy to see him doing well, the father-of-two replied with three praying emojis as a sign of gratitude. Jamie Foxx revealed he has a new perspective on life after surviving a near-death 'medical complication' that put him in a 20-day coma and left him unable to walk He has since recovered from his unknown medical condition. His latest post comes just days after revealing the mantra he 'lives by' after his brush with death last year. Four days ago, the Oscar winner shared an Instagram post that revealed he tells himself 'no bad dayz' to keep moving forward. 'This is my mantra after surviving something that I thought I would never go through. My good friend James [V. Barnett], who also happens to be my manager, gave me this phrase. I live by it now,' he explained. 'When you come through the darkness, the light looks brighter. And while I'm at it, I want to say thank you to everyone that sent up a prayer. I needed it.' Jamie (born Eric Bishop) then urged his 31.2M social media followers to watch his first comedy special in 22 years - Netflix's Jamie Foxx: What Happened Was... premiering December 10 - 'if you need a spiritual tune-up.' Foxx's Instagram post received supportive comments from celebs like Oppenheimer actor David Krumholtz: 'Prayers stay up for you, Jamie.' And Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea posted three heart emojis. In the teaser for his upcoming stand-up special, the In Living Color alum told the crowd: 'I said, "If I can stay funny, I could stay alive." I'm back!' In response to one comment from a fan saying they were so happy to see him doing well, the father-of-two replied with three praying emojis as a sign of gratitude Jamie's heart and my soul was 'filled with nothing but pure joy' after he 'had an opportunity to tell my side of the story' over three nights October 3-5 in Atlanta, GA. 'I haven't been on stage in 18 years but I needed the stage and I needed an audience that was made up of nothing but pure love and that's what you were,' Foxx gushed on October 13. 'When people ask me is this a stand-up comedy show I say, "No, it's an artistic explanation of something that went terribly wrong."' In behind-the-scenes snaps, the Grammy winner could be seen playing piano and singing during the What Happened Was special. Jamie only had eight days left of filming on Seth Gordon's spy comedy Back in Action - premiering January 17 on Netflix - when he suffered what he thought was just 'a bad headache.' His latest post comes just days after revealing the mantra he 'lives by' after surviving a near-death 'medical complication' that put him in a 20-day coma and left him unable to walk Four days ago, the Oscar winner shared an Instagram post that revealed he tells himself 'no bad dayz' following his brush with death to keep moving forward Foxx also urged his fans to watch his first comedy special in 22 years - Netflix's Jamie Foxx: What Happened Was... premiering December 10 - 'if you need a spiritual tune-up' 'I've been through something. I've been through some things,' Foxx said while accepting the Vanguard Award at the Critics Choice Association event on December 4. 'I cherish every single minute now it's different. I wouldn't wish what I went through on my worst enemy because its tough when it's almost over... when you see the tunnel. I saw the tunnel I didn't see the light. It was hot in that tunnel too, I don't know where I was going. "S***, am I going to the right place?"' On the personal front, the life-long bachelor had the support of his newlywed daughter Corinne 'Foxx' Marie Bishop, 30; from his relationship with Air Force veteran Connie Kline. Jamie also leaned on his 16-year-old daughter Anelise Bishop (with former publicist Kristin Grannis) as well as his model girlfriend of 15 months, Alyce Huckstepp. Xi says China-Japan relations in critical period of improvement, development Xinhua) 13:43, November 16, 2024 Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on the sidelines of the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Lima, Peru, Nov. 15, 2024. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen) LIMA, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- China-Japan relations are in a critical period of improvement and development, as the current international and regional situations face changes and turbulence, said Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday. As close neighbors and important countries in Asia and the world, the relationship between China and Japan holds significance that goes beyond the bilateral scope, Xi said while meeting Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on the sidelines of the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting. He noted that China is willing to work with Japan, in accordance with the principles and directions established in the four political documents between China and Japan, to uphold the important consensus that the two countries should "be partners, not threats," comprehensively advance the strategic relationship of mutual benefit, and endeavor to build a constructive and stable China-Japan relationship that meets the requirements of the new era. Xi stressed that China's development is an opportunity for the world, and this is especially true for neighboring countries like Japan. He expressed hope that Japan will work with China to develop a correct mutual understanding, steer the bilateral relationship in the right direction from a strategic perspective and with a broad view of the overall situation, and translate the important political consensus reached by both sides into concrete policies and actions. Xi called on the Japanese side to face history squarely, look to the future, and properly handle major issues of principle such as history and Taiwan, manage differences in a constructive manner and maintain the political foundation of bilateral relations. Both sides should deepen and expand cultural and local exchanges, promoting mutual understanding between the people of the two countries, especially the younger generation, said Xi. As China's and Japan's economic interests and production and supply chains are deeply integrated, both sides should adhere to mutual benefit and win-win cooperation, safeguard the global free trade system as well as stable and smooth production and supply chains, said Xi. He also called on the two countries to strengthen coordination on international and regional affairs, practice true multilateralism, promote open regionalism, and jointly address global challenges. Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on the sidelines of the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Lima, Peru, Nov. 15, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan) (Web editor: Xue Yanyan, Liang Jun) Harvard professor Marshall Ganz is the author of People Power Change: Organizing for Democratic Renewal. Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle A lot of Democrats are feeling hopeless after Donald Trumps decisive victory. Many of them have been engaged in worthless and self-serving finger-pointing, and are doing things like urging candidates to talk to Joe Rogan. But Marshall Ganz, better known as the architect of the ground game that propelled Barack Obama to twice win the presidency under the Yes, we can mantra, told me there are four options for Democrats as far as what comes next. Advertisement Article continues below this ad One is you can leave. You can go to Canada, or whatever, he said. Second one is, you can fight, but not resist. Third, is resist. Fourth, is build. Ganz said he prefers to fight and build. And he draws a distinction between fighting and resisting. Those are two very different mindsets, Ganz said. Resistance is kind of like, how do I protect myself? Fighting is like, I know what Im fighting for. Do we know what were fighting for? Ganz said that lately, the answer for Democrats is no. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I dont think they have a clue, he said. Before Democrats rev up to fight mode, Ganz said they need to take a long pit stop to listen to what people actually care about. Ganz, 81, who also worked for years as an organizer for the United Farm Workers, is a professor at Harvard University and has advised campaigns and movement leaders for decades. Now, he said, is the time for Democrats to grieve their loss, then start listening to their neighbors, and to the 75 million Americans who voted for Trump. Its through that process of listening that they will learn what they want to fight for. Then they can build a movement around those values, said Ganz, who is in the Bay Area to promote his new book, People Power Change: Organizing for Democratic Renewal. Harvard professor Marshall Ganz is the author of People Power Change: Organizing for Democratic Renewal. Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle Part of the challenge is systemic. The unlimited amount of money flowing into politics has created a political advertising industry. That, Ganz said, changed politics from people engaged with other people to a voter-targeting system where people become data points. They stop being people. And you cant do politics with data points. You do it with people. Advertisement Article continues below this ad And while Democrats may have had a superior ground game to Republicans, too often they werent listening to the people whose doors they bragged about knocking on over the past several months. The other intrinsic challenge facing Democrats began in the 1970s, he said, when the party either lost track of or rejected its commitment to ordinary peoples lives. Instead, progressives in particular have been overly focused on peoples labels their racial, ethnic, and gender demography which Ganz said is dehumanizing, regardless of what the particular is, and so you dont get people actually engaging with working people. Were looking at peoples profiles and identities, as opposed to whats going on in their lives. For example, Democrats have been baffled as to why a majority of voters in three states (Arizona, Missouri and Montana) voted to codify or expand abortion rights but also backed Trump, who nominated three justices to the Supreme Court with the expressed goal of limiting abortion rights. Nationally, 38% of Trump voters said they supported abortion rights, according to AP VoteCast exit polls. Democrats were making all these assumptions based on gender: Well, women are going to do this because theyre women. We know that. Thats automatic. Its full of assumption and projection and labeling. Its not listening, Ganz said. Republicans, he said, did a better job of listening to the economic pain that many Americans were feeling, and were able to persuade voters that they were appreciating the hopelessness, appreciating that anger, appreciating that, not just trying to explain it away or avoid blame, or all this other stuff, but actually, and they had a way to put it into words that was very powerful. They had a story. They had a narrative. We didnt have one. Advertisement Article continues below this ad And Trump did, in a way, have a ground game, Ganz said: in the form of evangelical church members who sided with him. They have a significant ground game. Theyre real. They have continuity. Theyre people. Theyre social. Thousands of Democrats across California traveled to battleground states like Nevada, Arizona, Pennsylvania and beyond to knock on doors and canvass voters on behalf of Harris. For many of them, it was a tangible way to channel their passion and political energy. But Ganz said going door to door is more powerful when the people doing the knocking live in those neighborhoods. Paige Lerman walks door to door on Oct. 13 in a Phoenix neighborhood with a high density of registered voters who havent voted recently. Ash Ponders/Special to the Chronicle Why arent people from these communities engaging with other people from these communities? (Instead) we have to import armies from the outside. Were not doing the work of building movements and human connections, he said. How much of Tuesdays failure was on Harris, who was elevated to the top of the ticket just 107 days before Election Day? Ganz said it would have been helpful to both Harris and Democrats if she or someone else had earned that slot by winning an open mini convention or a primary. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Leadership has to be earned, and you cant give it to somebody, Ganz said. And you earn it by being out there and people becoming supporters of yours. And no amount of celebrity endorsements and Harris got most of them could have saved her. On Sunday, Kim Kardashian flaunted her sculpted 5ft2in figure in lingerie from the official lookbook of her upcoming Dolce & Gabbana x SKIMS collaboration. The 44-year-old reality star left little to the imagination in a black mesh bra and panty set in full-length shots captured by photographer Hugh Wilson. Kim showcased her substantial assets in two styles of cheetah-print bras beneath matching PJs. Kardashian also modeled a black string panty with a matching tank top. The Kardashians producer-star - who boasts 480.8M social media followers - received glowing comments from her reporter gal pal Lauren Sanchez as well as rappers Sexyy Red and Omeretta The Great. Kim claimed it took a lot of 'blood, sweat, and tears' to 'dream' up her collection with the Italian designing duo, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana. On Sunday, Kim Kardashian flaunted her sculpted 5ft2in figure in lingerie from the official lookbook of her upcoming Dolce & Gabbana x SKIMS collaboration 'It's been an honor to collaborate with my friends Domenico and Stefano on this special collection for Dolce & Gabbana and SKIMS,' Kardashian said in the press release. 'We've taken classic Dolce & Gabbana silhouettes and Leopard prints and reimagined them with the incredible fit and comfort that SKIMS is known for. This is a truly iconic partnership that I'm so excited to share with the world.' This time, the Calabasas socialite made sure to include her sister Kourtney Kardashian Barker in the campaign as they famously feuded over her prior D&G collection 'copying' her entire 2022 wedding aesthetic. 'This is me plotting to steal her wedding country,' the 45-year-old Lemme co-founder joked on Instagram last Friday. It proved the siblings have come full circle after Kourtney notoriously told Kim over the phone in 2022: 'You're just a witch and I hate you.' 'We hold a genuine affection for Kim and her family,' Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana said in the press release. 'Our shared bond, rooted in a long-standing friendship, naturally inspired this new collaboration centered on inclusivity and body positivity - values close to our hearts and core to SKIMS.' D&G x SKIMS officially launches this Tuesday at 9am ET through SKIMS.com, SKIMS stores, Dolce & Gabbana stores, and Neiman Marcus. The 44-year-old reality star left little to the imagination in a black mesh bra and panty set in full-length shots captured by photographer Hugh Wilson Kim showcased her substantial assets in two styles of cheetah-print bras beneath matching PJs Kardashian also modeled a black string panty with a matching tank top The Kardashians producer-star received glowing comments from her reporter gal pal Lauren Sanchez as well as rappers Sexyy Red and Omeretta The Great Kim claimed it took a lot of 'blood, sweat, and tears' to 'dream' up her collection with the Italian designing duo, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana This time, Kardashian made sure to include her sister Kourtney Kardashian Barker (L) in the campaign as they feuded over her prior D&G collection 'copying' her entire 2022 wedding aesthetic 'This is me plotting to steal her wedding country,' the 45-year-old Lemme co-founder joked on Instagram last Friday It proved the siblings have come full circle after Kourtney notoriously told the Calabasas socialite over the phone in 2022: 'You're just a witch and I hate you' D&G x SKIMS officially launches this Tuesday at 9am ET through SKIMS.com, SKIMS stores, Dolce & Gabbana stores, and Neiman Marcus The limited-edition collab will be available in sizes XXS through 4X, with bra sizing ranging from 30A to 38DD The limited-edition collab will be available in sizes XXS through 4X, with bra sizing ranging from 30A to 38DD. Kardashian originally co-founded her $4B shapewear company in 2019 with married couple, Jens Grede and Emma Grede. The half-Armenian beauty - who passed the 'baby bar' exam in 2021 after failing three times - originally aimed to pass the California State Bar in 2023 without attending college or law school. Rather than becoming an attorney, Kim will pretend to be LA's 'most successful divorce lawyer' leading 'an all-female law firm' in Ryan Murphy's scripted legal drama All's Fair, which premieres next year on Hulu. Kardashian also executive produces the upcoming show starring acting heavyweights Glenn Close, Sarah Paulson, Naomi Watts, Niecy Nash, and Ed O'Neill as well as Teyana Taylor and Matthew Noszka. On July 25, Hulu renewed the SKKN founder and her famous family's reality show The Kardashians for 20 more episodes, which will likely mean season six and season seven are in the works. On February 19, showrunner Danielle King's Keeping Up with the Kardashians spin-off won reality show of the year at the People's Choice Awards after winning the best docu-reality series trophy at the 2023 MTV Movie & TV Awards. Judi Dench and Ian McKellen were among those celebrating the late playwright and composer Noel Coward at London's Prince of Wales Theatre in London on Sunday. The actress, 89, was also joined by broadcaster Gyles Brandreth and actor Derek Jacobi at the charity gala A Marvellous Party. The event marks the culmination of Coward 125, a two-year long celebration of Coward's life and work, leading up to the 125th anniversary of his birth. A Marvellous Party also features the lies of Hugh Bonneville, Alfred Enoch, Joshua James, Marisha Wallace and Samantha Spiro. It comes after Judi mourned the death of her friend Maggie Smith who died in September at the age of 89. Judi choked up on stage at the Cheltenham Literature Festival in October after she was asked about her late friends Maggie and Barbara Leigh-Hunt. Judi Dench and Ian McKellen were among those celebrating the late playwright and composer Noel Coward at London's Prince of Wales Theatre in London on Sunday Ian looked dapper in a blaxk blazer with a white scarf and purple trousers Judi was also joined by broadcaster Gyles Brandreth and actor Derek Jacobi at the charity gala A Marvellous Party Judi, who shared personal anecdotes during her presentation at the literature festival, got emotional after interviewer Brendan O'Hea brought up her beloved friends who both passed away in the last month. 'I know I probably shouldn't bring this up, I know the last week has been tricky for you because you lost your great friends Maggie Smith and Barbara Leigh-Hunt', he asked. He also asked her what she meant when she had once compared grief to petrol when speaking about her husband, Michael Williams', who died from lung cancer in 2001. 'I suppose the energy that's created by grief...' she said, before breaking down in tears. Maggie's death sparked an outpouring of grief from fellow thespians and Harry Potter fans around the world, with Huge Bonneville leading tributes to a 'true legend of her generation'. The beloved star, who was known for her roles in the Harry Potter movies and her incredible 70-year acting career, had been friends with Dench, since the 1950s. Their tight-knit friendship began when they were both young actresses after meeting backstage at the Old Vic theatre in London. Speaking at a tribute event for Dench back in 2002, Smith said : 'What I remember mostly about that time, it was the beginning of a friendship, and I remember laughter more than anything in the world. It comes after Judi mourned the death of her friend Maggie Smith who died in September at the age of 89 (pictured in 2004) Judi choked up on stage at the Cheltenham Literature Festival after she was asked about her late friends Maggie and Barbara Leigh-Hunt (pictured in 2001) 'Judi's the most tremendous friend. She's been a huge support and hugely loyal.' The pair had appeared on stage and on screen together several times, including the 1985 film A Room with a View, the 2004 drama 'Ladies in Lavender' and the 2011 comedy The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. Speaking about Judi and Maggies friendship, Ol Parker - who wrote The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, said: 'Maggie and Judi would swim in their Victorian swimsuits. And every day we would all laugh and laugh and laugh.' Dench and Smith also took part in the 2018 Netflix documentary 'Nothing Like a Dame', which documents conversations between the two actresses and fellow performers Eileen Atkins and Joan Plowright (all of who are Dames Commander of the British Empire). Strictly fans were shocked by Sunday's dance off this week, as they questioned why Pete Wicks and Jowita Przysta weren't in the bottom two. The TOWIE star and his partner finished bottom of the leaderboard on Saturday night, but made it through on the public vote. Instead Wynne Evans and Katya Jones and Montell Douglas and Johannes Radebe faced off in the dance off, with Wynne sent home by the judges. Viewers, and Pete himself, were shocked when Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announced he had made it through. 'Pete through, thats ridiculous. Someone must have spent a toy of money on the phone lines . The words dance of the night,' tweeted one viewer. 'Petes safe over Montell?' asked another. Strictly fans were shocked by Sunday's dance off this week, as they questioned why Pete Wicks and Jowita weren't in the bottom twoPrzysta Pete and Jowita both looked shocked by the results, with the reality star later telling Claudia 'I cannot believe it.' Jowita also revealed that 'he prepared a speech and everything.' On Saturday Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell performed an American Smooth to Jump by Paul Anka, wowing the judges who awarded them a staggering 37 out of 40. Meanwhile Tasha Ghouri and Aljaz Skorjanec showed the judges their Paso Doble to Torn by Nathan Lanier, impressing once again and proving their place at the top of the leaderboard. And while Tasha and Chris were riding high, it was Jamie, Wynne and Pete who found themselves in the bottom three. Jamie and Michelle Tsiakkas took to the floor to perform a Jive to The Ketchup Song which included the actor descending on a giant bottle of 'Strictly's tomato ketchup'. But despite the quirky opening, the duo lacked vibration, according to Motsi and Shirley told Jamie he could have benefitted from having his 'weight in the right place'. Wynne and Katya showed the judges their Charleston to the Torreadores from Bizet's Carmen with Wynne aptly dressed as a matador. Viewers, and Pete himself, were shocked when Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman announced he had made it through Pete and Jowita both looked shocked by the results, with the reality star later telling Claudia 'I cannot believe it' Anton called the performance 'extraordinary', but added that Wynne looked exhausted two thirds of the way in and as a result his form dropped. Craig disagreed about the loss of momentum - but still complained about flat-footedness and swivel (or lack of). The duo were awarded a total of 31 for their dance which placed them second to last, just ahead of Pete who fared far worse. The reality star and Jowita performed a Cha Cha to I'm Too Sexy by Right Said Fred. The former TOWIE star, 36, told the audience he wanted to do this dance as a thank you to Jowita, before joking it was the 'worst thank-you in the world'. Their dance scored a total of 27 including a paltry four from Craig, placing him at the bottom of the judge's leaderboard. Abbie Chatfield has revealed the heartbreaking reason she believes she will never have children. The FBoy Island host, 29, took to Instagram to share a loved-up post with her boyfriend Adam Hyde. In the picture, Abbie is wearing a blue and white striped loose-fitting shirt while the Peking Duk frontman caresses her stomach. And the pose had many commenters expressing that the post looked like a pregnancy announcement. 'My sister, you can't do this. I thought you were announcing a baby,' wrote one fan in the comments, while another said, 'Omg all I saw was Adam's hand placement and thought we were announcing a pregnancy.' But in a comment later captured by gossip profile Influencer Updates, Abbie revealed that she won't be having children with Adam for one very unusual reason. Abbie Chatfield has revealed the heartbreaking reason she will never have children. Pictured with boyfriend Adam Hyde One commenter remarked that 'you two would be the coolest parents ever.' 'Very sad climate change means probably not going to happen,' Abbie replied, followed by crying emojis. It comes after Abbie recently urged women to withhold sex from their Donald Trump-supporting partners. In a lengthy Instagram post, in the wake of Donald Trump's victory over Kamala Harris in the US presidential election, the reality star told women they should refuse to date or have sex which anyone who supports his victory. Alongside a series of posts from her story, she wrote: 'IF THEY WANT TO TAKE AWAY REPRODUCTIVE FREEDOMS THEN DO NOT LET THEM ENTER YOUR BODY.' 'I'm done with the idea that men who support Trump (or Andrew Tate) are just 'lost' and we should have empathy for them. They are gleefully posting threats of violence.' 'They are happy that women's rights are going to be stripped. They are laughing at our tears. They already have a SLOGAN in 'your body my choice'.' Abbie then told women to not let men with these views 'near you' because they are 'dangerous'. The pose had many commenters expressing that the post looked like a pregnancy announcement. But in a comment later captured by gossip profile Influencer Updates, Abbie revealed that she won't be having children with Adam due to climate change 'Ask them about their views! They are dangerous and they don't deserve your presence, emotional or domestic labour. If your partner was in support of Trump OR EVEN APATHETIC, STOP DOING ANYTHING FOR THEM THAT PATRIARCHY EXPECTS OF YOU!! They are NOT entitled to your body or time. 'If they see you as a human they wouldn't need this explained to them. DUMP. THEM.' She also claimed Trump's presidency 'will bring more violence towards women as men do not care about us'. 'So stop giving them the perks of a relationship with you. It isn't your job. Be with a man who can take care of himself, who won't expect sex and who actually sees you as a human being.' Abbie's comments echo sentiments from the 4B movement which sprung up in South Korea in the mid 2010s. The radical feminist movement, calls for proponents to not date, get married, have sex, or have children with men. Following the US presidential election some American women declared solidarity with the movement is a form of protest against Donald Trump, and his role in the overturning of Roe v. Wade. By reinforcing legal safeguards, the Apex Court seeks to restore public trust in the justice system and ensure that no citizen is denied their constitutional rights A historic Supreme Court verdict against bulldozer justice promises broad legal, social, and administrative impacts, addressing concerns around the unchecked, high-handed demolition of properties linked to criminal accusations. Such actions have often violated the fundamental tenets of the Indian Constitution. This ruling holds direct implications for BJP-ruled states like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Assam and the Delhi Municipal Corporation, which have been accused of misusing administrative powers to punish marginalised sections of society without due legal process. The concept of bulldozer justice was notably invented by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, earning him the nickname Bulldozer Baba among supporters. The Courts verdict marks a setback to the UP government, though CM may not express regret for actions nullified by the ruling, which had previously jeopardised the constitutional guarantees afforded to all Indian citizens. Social Implications Protection of Marginalised Communities: The ruling acknowledges that bulldozer justice has disproportionately impacted marginalised groups. By mandating due process, the Court aims to prevent biased or retaliatory actions against vulnerable communities, promoting equal treatment under the law. Public Trust in the Rule of Law: By condemning bulldozer justice, the Supreme Court seeks to rebuild public confidence in lawful governance, fostering trust that the state will not bypass legal safeguards to punish alleged offenders. Awareness and Advocacy: This judgment may empower civil rights groups to challenge arbitrary demolitions, advocating for the rights of those affected by unilateral property destruction. Administrative and Policy Impact. Reduced Arbitrary Actions: Administrative bodies may now face restrictions against immediate demolition practices that bypass judicial processes, holding them accountable to legal frameworks designed to protect against arbitrary punishment. This could encourage a fairer and more equitable application of laws. Policy Revisions at the State Level: States that have regularly employed demolitions as a form of bulldozer justice may need to revisit their policies, ensuring alignment with constitutional rights to property and due process. This could result in tighter guidelines and even statutory changes. Limit on Executive Power: The Courts disapproval of unilateral demolition reinforces the separation of powers, signaling that executive decisions must strictly adhere to legal boundaries. Legal and Judicial Consequences Strengthened Due Process: The ruling reaffirms that demolitions must respect due process, requiring legal scrutiny rather than administrative discretion. This will likely lead to the implementation of judicial approval for demolition orders, protecting citizens rights against arbitrary state actions. Increased Judicial Oversight: The ruling could result in heightened court involvement in cases where demolitions serve as punitive responses to alleged crimes, particularly in cases involving minority or marginalised groups. Pressure for National Guidelines: The Supreme Court suggested nationwide standards for property demolitions related to criminal cases, which could formalise rules for state authorities to follow, reducing current ambiguities. Supreme Court Guidelines on Demolitions Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan made impactful assertions, noting that demolitions based solely on accusations violate fundamental rights. The Court emphasised the presumption of innocence and mandated a 15-day notice period, allowing tenants or owners time to challenge demolition orders or make necessary arrangements. This highlights the right to shelter under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. The Court warned that contempt proceedings could follow violations of these guidelines and responsible officials may face compensation liabilities for restitution. This ruling stemmed from controversial demolitions in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, alongside a Jamiat-Ulama-i-Hind petition challenging demolitions in Delhis Jahangirpuri in 2022. Data show that state laws on demolitions were often violated in Uttar Pradesh, a state pioneering bulldozer justice. The Uttar Pradesh Urban Planning and Development Act, 1973, requires a minimum 15-day notice before unauthorised structures can be removed, with a right to appeal. However, the 2022 demolitions, where structures were razed without due process, led to the Jamiat-Ulama-i-Hinds petition to the Supreme Court. In another significant instance, former Chief Justice Chandrachud, before his retirement on November 9, and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra directed the Uttar Pradesh government to pay Rs 25 lakh as compensation to a man whose home was demolished in 2019 for a road-widening project. The Court expressed concern over state actions that could potentially use demolitions as selective reprisals, noting that citizens voices must not be stifled by the threat of losing their homes. In Rajasthan, demolition laws under Section 245 of the Rajasthan Municipalities Act, 2009, require prior written notice detailing the grounds for eviction. Following communal tensions in Udaipur, authorities issued a quick notice before demolishing a house on alleged forest land encroachment, contravening local law requirements for a reasonable response period. Section 91 of the Rajasthan Forest Act, 1953, restricts eviction orders to be issued only by a Tehsildar. The Madhya Pradesh Municipalities Act, 1961, stipulates that any unauthorised building alteration or construction may be removed, but only after notice. However, this was ignored when a labourers home was demolished immediately after his sons arrest, raising rights violation concerns. Under the Delhi Municipal Corporation Act, 1957, the commissioner can remove illegal structures but must give reasonable opportunity for owners to dispute the action. The Jahangirpuri incident in 2022 highlighted the need for due process, intensifying scrutiny on such practices. In Haryana, demolitions are governed by Section 261 of the Haryana Municipal Corporation Act, 1994, which mandates a notice period with an opportunity to contest. However, after communal violence in Nuh in 2023, authorities demolished over 440 structures, mostly affecting Muslim households. Although similar to Delhis DMC Act, Haryanas compliance period is notably shorteronly three days, leaving owners little time for appeals. Strengthening Accountability: The Supreme Courts new guidelines aim to check arbitrary demolitions and uphold legal protections, particularly for vulnerable tenants. These regulations emphasise that adequate notice, transparency, and due process must be integral to any demolition order. While state laws vary, adherence to these guidelines will be essential in ensuring that demolitions respect both legal and constitutional rights, strengthening administrative accountability. A Fundamental Shift in the Justice System: The Supreme Court of Indias recent ruling against bulldozer justice was a response to cases where properties of individuals accused of crimes, especially those involving communal violence, were demolished without legal due process. The Court underscored that demolitions must be legally justified and cannot bypass established procedures. It criticised this practice for disproportionately impacting marginalised communities, violating human rights, and eroding public trust. In essence, this ruling reaffirms the constitutional right to due process, expected to curb the trend of using demolitions as extrajudicial punitive measures. The ruling marks a shift toward a justice system grounded in fairness, procedure, and accountability. (The author is a political analyst and strategic affairs columnist; views are personal) At least 50 people were injured and many houses were torched and shops vandalised after clashes broke out between members of two communities at Beldanga area of Murshidabad district in central Bengal, bordering Bangladesh. The injured include at least five women and many others from both the groups, sources said adding the entire area was tense though no new reports of clashes had come in till Sunday evening. The incident took place late on Saturday night after members of one community resorted to stone-pelting as reports of alleged sacrilegious comments written on electrical light boards at a Kartik Puja pandal in ward number 10 became public. Kartik Puja is usually organised by women who want to become mothers. We have detained a number of persons for committing mischief after some people engaged in clashes leading to injuries and some loss of properties, district Superintendent of Police Surya Pratap Yadav said. Senior officers had rushed to the area with large posse of police rapid action forces, said State DGP Rajiv Kumar while another senior official said that internet facilities had been shut in the area though no prohibitory orders have yet been issued considering the festivities. Some of the injured had been admitted at the Berhampore Medical College and Hospital, sources said. The incident took place at a time when Bengal Opposition Leader Suvendu Adhikari alleged in Mumbai how Bengal had become a gateway of Rohingyas. They are entering India through Bengal as the State Government is not giving land to the BSF for fencing, he said. Usually a peaceful area, parts of Murshidadad had witnessed communal tensions in May this year when two groups clashed at Rejinagar near Beldanga during the Ram Navami festival leading Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to blame a local monk from Bharat Sevashram Sangha a renowned socio-religious charitable organisation functioning from Kolkata for the riots. Naming a particular monk she said he was behind the riots in Rejinagar. If he intends to do politics, he should do it with a BJP symbol. He has said Trinamool agents will not be allowed to sit in the booth. Around the general elections an alleged provocative comment made by a local Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir threatening the BJP with dire consequences if they would not stop creating trouble too contributed oil to fire. Reminding the sordid fact that the Muslims constitute two-third of the population of Murshidabad district Kabir had said that he had the capacity of disposing of the entire BJP in Bhagirathi River in a matter of two hours. As per 2011 census Murshidabad Muslims constitute about 66.8 percent of the total population whereas Hindus amount to about 33 percent. Recently an FIR was lodged against Bollywood star-turned-BJP leader Mithun Chakraborty after he warned, in a party meeting, that those who threatened to throw Hindus in Bhagirathi River better watch out. We will take down four fruits from their trees if they pluck one fruit from ours, he warned. Meanwhile, Adhir Chowdhury former Congress MP from Berhampore which is the headquarters of Murshidabad appealed to all to maintain peace and harmony. Praising the administration for taking timely steps he said that his party would cooperate with the police to restore peace in the area. Arvind Kejriwals Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) received a massive setback just months before the Delhi Assembly elections, as senior minister and veteran leader Kailash Gahlot, who had claimed to be Kejriwals Hanuman, on Sunday resigned from the primary membership of the party and the council of ministers, citing the sheesh mahal controversy, and the party unnecessary fighting with the Centre for setting their own political agenda. With this, four MLAs, including three ministers, have resigned from the AAP - Rajendra Pal Gautam joined the Congress in September, Patel Nagar and Chattarpur MLAs Raaj Kumar Anand and Kartar Singh Tanwar joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during the Lok Sabha polls. Gahlot is the third minister of the AAP led Delhi government who quitted in the past one-and-half years. In his resignation letter addressed to AAPs National Convener Arvind Kejriwal and Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, Gahlot also cited unfulfilled promises and recent controversies as reasons for stepping down. Gahlot has held key positions within the Delhi government, including the portfolios of Transport, Law, Information Technology, Administrative Reforms, and Women and Child Development. Gahlot pointed to the grave challenges facing the party Gahlot, a prominent figure in the party, also took a jab at Kejriwal while flagging some awkward and embarrassing controversies like sheesh mahal, saying it makes everyone doubt if we still believe in being the Aam Aadmi. Gahlots reference to the sheesh mahal controversy comes against the backdrop of BJP leaders charge that Kejriwal spent crores on lavish items and modern facilities at his former official residence at 6 Flagstaff Road. The BJP had dubbed Kejriwals earlier residence as sheesh mahal. Meanwhile, the AAP national convener refused to take a question on Gahlots shock resignation at a press conference held at the party office hours after Gahlots resignation and promptly turned the microphone towards MLA Durgesh Pathak, seated next to him. When pressed for his response, Kejriwal said with a smile, You want an answer, right? before Pathak began speaking. In fact, the former Chief Minister spoke soon after, criticised the BJP but did not mention Gahlots exit. Holding the BJP responsible, Pathak said Gehlot was being questioned and raided by Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Income Tax for months. So he did not have a choice. But this makes it clear that BJP has lost the Delhi election. They have no issue, they are fighting on the basis of ED, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Income Tax and we are fighting on peoples issues, he said. Earlier, AAPs Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh said Gahlots resignation is a part of BJPs dirty politics. Its a dirty political conspiracy of the BJP and it wants to win the Delhi Assembly polls by misusing the ED and CBI, he charged. On the other hand, the BJP was quick to respond to Gahlots announcement. Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva welcomed Gahlots resignation, saying he took a brave step. Gahlot stepped down raising the same issues for which the BJP was protesting and fighting against Kejriwal and AAP. His resignation proves that even the AAP leaders do not consider Kejriwal as an honest politician, Sachdeva said. Party leader Kapil Mishra welcomed the resignation and said that Gahlots remarks in the letter to Kejriwal raise serious questions about the AAP and Delhi government. Gahlots resignation has been accepted by CM Atishi. His exit comes weeks after party Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal turned rebel, although she remains an MP from the party. The senior AAP leaders resignation comes at a time when the party is gearing up for the Delhi Assembly polls slated to be held in February next year. After Kejriwal stepped down, Gahlot was among the key contenders for the CMs post. However, Kejriwal picked Atishi for the top job. Insiders say Kejriwal and his team was not happy with Gahlot for his close proximity with Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena who nominated him to unfurl Tricolour at Chhatrasal stadium on Independence Day this year. Besides, on several occasions, the Delhi Cabinet took decisions without informing him. In his resignation, Gahlot said, Another painful point has been the fact that instead of fighting for peoples rights we have increasingly only been fighting for our own political agenda. This has severely crippled our ability to even deliver basic services to the people of Delhi. It is now obvious that real progress for Delhi cannot happen if the Delhi Government spends majority of its time fighting with the Centre. Listing out the challenges that the party faces, Gehlot said:I want to share with you that today the Aam Aadmi Party faces grave challenges. Challenges from within, to the very values that brought us together to AAP. Political ambitions have overtaken our commitment towards people, leaving many promises unfulfilled. Take for example the Yamuna, which we had promised to transform into a clean river, but never got around to doing it. Now the Yamuna River is perhaps even more polluted than ever before, the letter read. Gahlot made it clear that his decision to step away from the party was motivated by his continued desire to serve the people of Delhi, but he felt that his commitment to the AAPs vision could no longer be reconciled with the partys current direction. I had started my political journey with the commitment to serve the people of Delhi and I want to continue doing that. Which is why, I find myself left with no option but to step away from AAP, Gahlot concluded. In March, Gahlot was summoned by the ED in the Delhi excise policy case. However, this was before all AAP leaders and the accused in the case were granted bail. In 2018, several locations linked to Gahlot and his family members were raided by the Income Tax Department, alleging tax evasion worth several crores. Gahlot joined the AAP before the 2015 Assembly elections and won the Najafgarh seat by a thin margin of 1,550 votes. He would go on to win the seat again in 2020 by over 6,000 vote Deputy Commissioner cum District Election Officer Ranchi, Varun Ranjan on Sunday inspected the various polling stations and clusters of 61- Silli regarding the second phase assembly elections to be held on November 20 and directed the concerned officers to make all the arrangements on time. Ranjan inspected 61- Silli's Government Middle School Dowadu Block Silli, Booth No. 64 and 65 and the clusters formed here, Upgraded High School Godadih Block Silli Booth No. 49 and the clusters formed here, Government Upgraded Middle School Khalari Block Silli Booth No. 51 and the clusters here, Upgraded High School Godadih Block Silli Booth No. 49 and the clusters formed here. While observing all the arrangements, the DC said that the guidelines of the Election Commission of India should be surely followed. Ranjan, while inspecting all the arrangements, instructed the concerned officer that for the assembly elections to be held in Silli on November 20, the polling party and police party will stay in the polling centers and clusters built here For this, there should be no problem in their accommodation, adequate arrangements for food, drinking water, toilet should be ensured in these centers. During the inspection, Additional Collector Ranchi cum Returning Officer Silli, Ramnarayan Singh as well as Block Development Officer Silli, Zonal Officer Silli and other officers were also present. A 23-year-old youth died after he was hit by an unidentified vehicle in Nishatpura area of Bhopal in the wee hours on Saturday, he used to visit parents every Friday while working as he was a mechanical engineer in TCS company in Mumbai. Anand Rajput came from Mumbai to meet his mother and father in Berasia on Friday. The same night he left home to meet his brother living in Karond and on Saturday morning at 3:30 am, people informed his family that he was found in an injured state. With the help of an ambulance, he was admitted to a private hospital where he died during treatment at around 4 am on Sunday. Anand Rajput was a resident of Langarpur Berasia. He had studied B.Tech from a private college in Bhopal. He got a job in a TCS company in Mumbai 6 months ago. His father said that he often used to come to Bhopal on Friday night while his other son Arvind Rajput lives on rent in Karod and is doing B Pharma. Anand had left home on Friday night to meet Arvind. Later in the wee hours on Saturday we got information that their son had met with an accident on Jail Road in front of the main gate of Comfort Loss Green Colony. No one knows which vehicle hit him. We asked to take the son to the hospital immediately. We rushed to the hospital in Bhopal where he died during treatment. Anand was the eldest son of the Rajput family, Arvind is younger to him and he has a sister. The sister is a school student. Father does farming in the village itself. He went to Mumbai to make a career. His dream was to settle in the big city. After the death of the son, the mother is crying badly, she kept trying to lift him up. Head constable Chatar Singh Ahirwar, who is investigating the case, said that they are checking the footage of CCTV cameras installed around the incident site. A case has been registered, some people have said that Anand had gone to Mumbai by bike, but the family members did not confirm this. The BJP has appointed its first-ever WhatsApp Pramukh here on Sunday. Ramkumar Chaurasia, an MSc graduate, has been entrusted with the role, of using WhatsApp to connect with the masses and disseminate information about government schemes. Ramkumar Chourasia, a resident of Bhopal and a private sector employee, has been tasked with using WhatsApp to engage with the public and spread information about the party's policies and initiatives. In an exclusive conversation with India Today sister site, Aaj Tak, Chourasiya, who holds an MSc degree, shared that he hails from Raisen district of the state but has lived in Bhopal for the past 30 years. He is associated with booth number 223 of the BJP and expressed that his admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi played a pivotal role in his decision to join the party. Chourasia spoke about how PM Modis leadership has inspired a sense of national pride amongst the young people of the country and how India is now being recognised globally, which further motivated his decision to become part of the BJP. Initially, Chourasia started small programs in his locality, but now, with his new responsibility as the first WhatsApp head of the state, his focus will be to use the platform to communicate BJPs ideology and government schemes to voters in his booth area. His goal is to ensure that every voter in his booth receives information about the partys policies through WhatsApp. This move comes as the BJP gears up for organisational elections. Recently, State BJP President VD Sharma took charge as booth head from Ward-80 in Bhopal, marking the launch of the "Booth Organisation Festival." The party has devised a structure for each of the 65,015 booths in the state, with 12 key officials assigned to each. These positions include the booth president, booth minister, BLA-2 (party workers), WhatsApp head, Mann Ki Baat head, beneficiary head, and panna head. Chyanne Chen, District 11 supervisor candidate, hangs a banner donated in front of her campaign headquarters last month. Chen was declared the winner Saturday in a tight race. Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle Political newcomer Chyanne Chen will represent District 11 on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors after a drawn-out election in which seven candidates vied for Ahsha Safais old seat. Chens election marked a much-needed win for progressives, who are currently outnumbered on the board by their moderate colleagues. Connie Chan, Jackie Fielder, Myrna Melgar and Shamann Walton are the other progressives on the incoming board. An immigrant from China who arrived in the U.S. as a teenager, Chen said that as a supervisor she will advocate for more robust translation services for monolingual speakers. Her platform emphasized public safety, investment in child care and services for the elderly, and revitalization of small businesses. Advertisement Article continues below this ad She drew endorsements from labor unions, tenant groups and influential politicians, among them Assembly Member Phil Ting and U.S. Sen. Laphonza Butler. Buoyed by their support, Chen rose to be one of three top contenders in a crowded field, narrowly edging her nearest competitor, Democratic County Central Committee member Michael Lai. I am proud and honored to be Supervisor-elect for District 11, Chen, who received 50.4% of the vote in the instant runoff, posted on Instagram. This was a close election, and I am committed to bringing people together to fight for stronger communities, safe neighborhoods and improved services. As a longtime advocate, I am ready to be a voice in City Hall for all our residents. Lai conceded the race Sunday on X, saying he called Chen to offer her congratulations as the first Asian supervisor for District 11 and offer my help to make the district the best it can be. A diverse area wedged at the southern edge of the city, District 11 spreads through Outer Mission, Excelsior, Crocker-Amazon and Ingleside. It includes vibrant business corridors and streets beset by vacant storefronts, alongside dense residential neighborhoods where many households have school-age children. Safai, who is termed out after eight years and lost his bid for mayor this month, described it as forgotten by City Hall. Advertisement Article continues below this ad NIT Jamshedpur hosted the second edition of its Industry-Academia Conclave (IAC-2024) from November 1517, marking a significant milestone in fostering collaboration between academia and industry. Dedicated to Padma Vibhushan Late Ratan Tata, the conclave, themed "Vikshit Bharat Vikshit Jharkhand," emphasized innovation, sustainability, and self-reliance as key drivers for Indias progress by 2047. The event concluded with the signing of three MoUs with IIT Jodhpur, RVSCET Jamshedpur, and Ramgarh College to enhance research collaborations. IAC-2024 reinforced NIT Jamshedpur's commitment to driving Indias progress through academia-industry partnerships, setting the stage for a sustainable and innovative future aligned with the vision of "Vikshit Bharat Vikshit Jharkhand." The final day of the conclave featured two major highlights. The first was a panel discussion on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Environmental Accountability in Mining Operations, where industry and academic stalwarts, including Amitanjan Nandi (Damodar Valley Corporation), Mr. P.B. Sinha (FEURST Inc., France), Dr. S.K. Chaulya, and Dr. N.K. Mohalik (CSIR-CIMFR), deliberated on the challenges and solutions for balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability in mining. They discussed the importance of technological innovations, climate-conscious regulations, and inclusive mining policies for Jharkhand and beyond. The second highlight was the Circuit Design & Simulation Hackathon, organized in collaboration with VLSI System Design (VSD), Bangalore. Dedicated to Ratan Tatas vision of empowering individuals through technology, the event saw participants develop circuit designs using open-source tools. After rigorous evaluations, Sangesh S from Patiala, Punjab, emerged as the winner, followed by Nalinkumar S from Bangalore, Karnataka, and Sree Vishnu Varthini S from Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Prof. Amit Patra highlighted the role of open-source tools in advancing VLSI design during the event. During the closing ceremony, Prof. Goutam Sutradhar presented a detailed report, expressing gratitude to the co-organizers, including IITs and NITs from across the country, and the sponsors, such as Tata Steel, Powergrid, Greenko Group, and NTPC. He highlighted the participation of 72 delegates from 28 premier institutes, 46 industry representatives, and 43 stalls showcasing cutting-edge innovations. The conclave also featured five impactful panel discussions on topics like Industry 4.0, Renewable Energy Integration, and Digital Twin Technology, as well as a model competition with 1 lakh in prizes and cultural performances. Prof. Sutradhar heartily congratulated the organizing secretaries, Prof. M K Sinha and Prof. Amaresh Kumar, and their team on the successful event. The Pentecostal Assembly School (PAS) celebrated Jharkhand Diwas with patriotic zeal on November 15, 2024. The event featured a special assembly where Grade 9 students performed traditional dances and songs, showcasing Jharkhand's cultural richness. A speech by Mayank Kumar, a Grade 9 student, highlighted the states heritage and the need to preserve its traditions. The program was skillfully hosted by Kavya and Devanshu. The day also marked Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, commemorating the contributions of tribal freedom fighters and the birth anniversary of the iconic Birsa Munda. Principal Dr. Karuna Prasad emphasized the significance of Jharkhand Diwas, celebrating the states identity and unity. The event successfully fostered cultural pride and awareness among students and teachers. : The five-day workshop on Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis organized under the 'SARANSH' (Systematic Analysis and Research Advancement in National Scientific Health) initiative concluded successfully on Saturday at AIIMS Bhopal. The workshop was held from November 12 to 16, 2024, with the aim of promoting evidence-based medical research in India. In his address at the valedictory function, Prof. Singh emphasized the critical importance of evidence-based medicine, stating: "Evidence-based research is the cornerstone of effective and efficient healthcare services. This workshop has not only enhanced research capabilities but also fostered collaborative learning. AIIMS Bhopal remains committed to advancing healthcare research and education in the country." The workshop brought together participants from diverse states and medical disciplines, providing them with practical skills in systematic reviews and meta-analysis. These skills are essential for strengthening evidence-based research methodologies, which contribute to improved healthcare practices. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav stated that strengthening and expanding healthcare services in Madhya Pradesh is the state governments highest priority. He highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi believes that the foundation of a self-reliant and empowered India lies in healthy citizens. To realize this vision, the state government is continuously working to provide every citizen with accessible and advanced medical services. On November 21, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav will lay the foundation stone of the Ujjain Medical College, a step that will give new dimensions to the states healthcare services. Dr. Yadav also emphasized that the project will be prioritized to meet the requirements of Simhastha-2028. The college will provide high-quality tertiary-level healthcare services to patients in Ujjain and nearby districts. The Chief Minister noted that there were only five government medical colleges in the state until 2003, which have now increased to 17. MBBS seats in the state have also grown from 720 to 2,575. Medical colleges are under construction in Sheopur, Singrauli, Mandla, and Rajgarh, while additional colleges are being established in Chhatarpur, Damoh, and Budhni through self-financing grants. Furthermore, the process of opening medical colleges in 12 districts under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model is underway. Dr. Yadav stated that the establishment of 20 new medical colleges will increase MBBS seats by more than 2,000. Bed capacities in hospitals in Bhopal and Gwalior are being increased to 2,500, while super-specialty hospitals are operational in Indore, Gwalior, Jabalpur, and Rewa. Initiatives such as the School of Excellence in Pulmonary Medicine in Jabalpur and the School of Excellence for Eye Care in Indore are positioning the state as a leader in healthcare. To promote nursing and paramedical education, nursing colleges are being established in 14 medical colleges. Currently, 24 government nursing colleges are operational, soon to increase to 37. The state has 250 paramedical colleges, where around 25,000 students are pursuing education. Additionally, Madhya Pradesh is the only state in the country where medical studies have been initiated in Hindi. Yadav also announced that community health centers across the state are being equipped with advanced medical facilities to provide district-level hospital-grade services. Additionally, more than 30,000 medical and auxiliary positions will be filled in accordance with Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS). Only healthy citizens can build a self-reliant Madhya Pradesh, Dr. Yadav asserted. The medical college will be constructed on 14.97 acres of land, with a planned built-up area of 1,42,034 square meters. The total estimated cost is 592.3 crores. The facility will include state-of-the-art fire safety systems, energy-efficient LED lighting, solar energy, and HVAC systems. Provisions for rainwater harvesting, wastewater reuse, and a sewage treatment plant have also been incorporated. The campus will feature a foot-over bridge, library building, service block, MGPS block, and ESS block. The Ujjain Medical College will have a teaching hospital with a capacity of 550 beds. The Ujjain Medical College will have an initial intake of 100 MBBS students. It will feature four state-of-the-art lecture theaters (with a capacity of 180 each) and two examination halls (with a capacity of 250 each). Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, said that the Mahayuti government of Maharashtra is working to make Chhatrapati Shivaji's dream come true and to promote Sanatan. He was addressing a public meeting in support of the candidate in Shindkheda Assembly of Dhule district of Maharashtra and a social meeting organized in Yashwantrao Chavan Auditorium of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar Central Assembly of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar district on Sunday. A Mahayuti alliance government should be formed here so that Maharashtra's development continues uninterrupted. Congress and its allies have a problem with Lord Shri Ram and Shri Krishna. Congress and its allies have denied the existence of Lord Shri Ram. We are people who follow the path of religion. Whenever we talk about religion and our Sanatan culture, Congressmen get angry. Late Baba Saheb Thackeray ji spent his entire life for the upliftment of Sanatan Dharma and now those who do politics in his name have forgotten Sanatan culture in their hunger for power. For power, Congress and its allies are conspiring to divide the Sanatan society into castes. All of you are wise, if we divide into castes, then anti-national forces will become more active in the country. If we are united, we are safe. Yadav said that for BJP, the nation comes first, but for the Congress party and its allies, family comes first. Yadav said that the country is completely safe under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Whoever understands the Prime Minister in which language, he knows how to make him understand in his own language. During the reign of Congress, terrorist blasts used to take place in the country every day. There used to be terrorist activities from Pakistan on the border. After Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister in 2014, blasts in the country have completely stopped. Now when Pakistan thinks of firing a bullet, a shell falls in its house. When our army sets new records of bravery, enters the enemy country and carries out surgical strikes and air strikes, then the Congress leaders and its allies make a despicable attempt to break the morale of the army by asking for proof from them. The Chief Minister said that the Bharatiya Janata Party takes along every section of society and works for the development and welfare of all. BJP is working to promote Sanatan culture. If any person from India goes to any country in the world and says that he has come from the land of Lord Shri Ram and Shri Krishna, then people of the whole world recognize that this person has come from Hindustan. The Mahayuti government in Maharashtra has given the status of Rajmata to cow, so Congress is having a stomachache. They are opposing giving respect to cow. Cow, which is the abode of 33 crore gods and goddesses, gives milk to feed her child as well as to feed the children of humans. Those who oppose cow and oppose the construction of Lord Shri Ram's temple in Ayodhya, did nothing for the construction of Lord Krishna's temple in Mathura, teach such Congress party and its allies a lesson. Yadav said that Maharashtra is such a state, it gives a direction to the country. Seeing the atmosphere in Maharashtra, the entire opposition including Congress has started believing that a Mahayuti government is going to be formed here. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has done a historic work towards empowering women by making Nari Shakti Vandan law to give them 33 percent reservation in the country's Parliament. The BJP government has implemented the Ladli Behna Yojana in Madhya Pradesh. In Maharashtra, the BJP, NDA-Mahayuti alliance has announced the Ladki Behna Yojana. By implementing this scheme, the NDA government will work to make the sisters of Maharashtra millionaires.Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav said that our culture teaches to respect mothers and sisters. The Moharda drinking water project has been facing a complete halt in water supply for the past three days, sparking concern among residents and public representatives. Jamshedpur East MLA and Jamshedpur West NDA candidate, Saryu Roy, has expressed serious dissatisfaction over the issue, questioning the negligence of officials in maintaining the infrastructure. All three motors breaking down simultaneously is beyond comprehension, stated Roy. Highlighting the chain of events, he pointed out that the first motor of the projects intake well had broken down 20 days ago, followed by a second motor shortly after. Despite these issues, no repair work was undertaken, leaving the entire system dependent on a single motor, which also failed three days ago, completely halting the water supply. "Providing water through tankers is like a drop in the ocean," remarked Roy, emphasizing the impracticality of such a solution for a vast area. He criticized the lack of readiness by the officials of Jamshedpur Notified Area Committee (JNAC) and Tata Steel UISL, calling their approach to maintenance and crisis management inadequate. Roy engaged with the Deputy Municipal Commissioner of JNAC, Tata Steel UISL General Manager, and other officials, urging immediate action to restore water supply. The officials assured him that at least one motor would be repaired by Sunday evening, resuming partial water supply. The MLA questioned why preventive maintenance was ignored and repairs delayed, causing undue hardship to the residents. The non-stop disruption of water supply for three days reflects poorly on the relevance and management of the project, he concluded. This incident has raised questions about the sustainability and effectiveness of critical public infrastructure in Jamshedpur, as citizens await prompt resolution. The Centre's air quality panel has announced stricter pollution control measures for the Delhi-NCR under Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), effective from 8 am on Monday, including a ban on truck entry and a temporary halt on construction at public projects. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) issued the order as Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) worsened, reaching 441 at 4 pm and rising to 457 by 7 pm due to unfavourable weather conditions. According to the order, no trucks will be allowed into Delhi except for those carrying essential items or using clean fuel (LNG/CNG/BS-VI diesel/electric). Non-essential light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi will also be prohibited, except for EVs and CNG and BS-VI diesel ones. Delhi-registered BS-IV or older diesel medium and heavy goods vehicles are banned, except for those in essential services, the panel said. All construction activities, including highways, roads, flyovers, power lines, pipelines and other public projects, have been suspended. The CAQM suggested online teaching for the students of Classes 6 to 9 and Class 11. It also recommended that offices in the National Capital Region (NCR) work at 50 per cent capacity, with the rest working from home. Work-from-home options may be introduced for central government employees, the panel said. State governments could also decide to close colleges, limit non-essential commercial activities and implement odd-even vehicle rules, it said. The Supreme Court has flagged the "complete failure" of agencies in implementing the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 in the national capital and directed the chief secretary of the Delhi government to call a meeting of all stakeholders to discuss the issue. The apex court observed it is a matter of immense importance that the 2016 Rules are implemented in their true letter and spirit in the capital city. "If we find that all other authorities do not come together and tell us the time-bound schedule for implementation of the 2016 Rules, the court may have to consider of passing harsh orders," a bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih said in its order passed on November 11. The bench said, "We direct the chief secretary of the Delhi Government to call a meeting of all the stakeholders, including the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, to discuss the issue of implementation of the 2016 Rules". It said all stakeholders must come together and file a common report before the court laying down the time-lines for reporting compliance with the provisions of the 2016 Rules. The apex court said the exercise of holding a meeting and coming out with a common response shall be completed by December 13. "As we have been noticing in other cases also, the 2016 Rules have remained on paper. If in the territory of NCT of Delhi, there is a complete failure to implement the 2016 rules, one can imagine what must be happening in cities in other parts of the country," the bench said. It noted that on one hand, there was no implementation of the 2016 rules due to which garbage or solid waste was being illegally stored in landfill sites which were prone to fires and, on the other hand, a large number of construction activities were going on which adds to generation of solid and construction wastes. "The Delhi government must come out with the figures for the daily generation of solid waste in the city while submitting the report," it said. The bench authorised the special secretary of the Delhi government's environment department to call officers concerned of the Centre for the meeting, if the involvement of any department of the Centre was required in the implementation of the 2016 Rules. "If the special secretary finds that any of the stakeholders are not cooperating, we permit him to move an application to this court to seek directions," the bench said and posted the matter for further hearing on December 16. The issue of solid waste management in Delhi-NCR has cropped up before the apex court which is hearing a matter related to pollution in the national capital and adjoining areas. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) had on October 18 told the apex court that by 2026, it will exceed its capacity of processing 11,000 tonnes of solid waste generated daily in the national capital. On July 26, the top court had expressed its concern over the poor implementation of the Solid Waste Management Rules in the national capital and observed that over 3,000 tonnes of untreated solid waste per day in Delhi could lead to a "public health emergency". The apex court had slammed the MCD over the "sorry state of affairs" and said that the national capital generates over 11,000 tonnes of solid waste per day, while the daily capacity of processing plants was only 8,073 tonnes. November 16, 2024: Vladimir Putin has ordered MSF or Medecins Sans Frontieres/Doctors Without Borders to leave Russia. This is an unpopular decision with most Russians. MSF has worked in Russia since the 1990s, when the Soviet Union collapsed and its long ban on such international organizations was lifted. Putins ban of MSF is another revived Soviet era policy. Putin gave no reason for the ban, but he is in charge and MSF left. The Russians working with MSF are still operating in the medical programs MSF began or enhanced. Putin can now call all this progress Russian rather than the result of international cooperation. Another thing Putin wanted to avoid is NGOs manipulating the media as part of their own private international diplomacy. The NGOs have become a powerful force in the diplomatic arena, developing and promoting their own foreign policy. This was obviously not the case in Russia, which is a highly organized nation that does need more help in delivering better medical care to more of its citizens. Putin feared that the good work done by MSF would reflect poorly on his government, which has not been able to deal effectively with public health problems. Part of the problem is that many medical resources have been taken from general health care duties and devoted to deal with nearly a million soldiers who were wounded or became sick while serving in Ukraine. Many medical personnel have been persuaded to go to Ukraine to provide medical treatment in the combat zone. Western militaries, especially the United States, have demonstrated that prompt medical aid, as close to the fighting as possible, saves lives. Putin is claiming his reinvention of this practice is a Russian idea and the presence of MSF contradicts claims of medical improvements being the result of Russian efforts and no one elses. Putin has earlier expelled foreign Non-Government Organizations, many of which did not provide medical aid but instead addressed problems the corrupt Russian government could not deal with. Putin did not want foreigners providing firsthand accounts of how bad the health care, and other situations were in Russia. Economy Minister Conor Murphy has arrived in Singapore to lead an all-island trade mission to the worlds largest fintech trade event, Singapore Fintech Festival. The four-day trade mission, which is supported by Invest Northern Ireland, Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland, will promote the island of Ireland as a hub for innovation in regtech, fintech, and financial services and will showcase 14 companies at the Singapore Fintech Festival to the wider Asia-Pacific market. Speaking today, Minister Murphy said: Im delighted to lead the first ever all-Ireland trade mission to Singapore. It is very welcome that Invest NI, Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland are cooperating to showcase the strength of our companies, north and south. This trade event is a great opportunity for our economy. Irelands fintech sector is internationally recognised for its innovation and talent. And Singapore, as a global fintech leader, is a prime location to showcase our fintech capabilities on the world stage. Companies from the north of Ireland participating on the mission are EOS IT Solutions, Fern Software, First Derivative, FinTrU, Funds-Axis, Kyber Digital and Neueda. During the mission, the Minister will support the companies at the Singapore Fintech Festival, deliver a keynote address at an Irish Chamber of Commerce event and hold a range of meetings, including attending an event with the Northern Irish diaspora in partnership with NI Connections. Invest NI CEO, Kieran Donoghue added: The Asia-Pacific market presents substantial growth opportunities for Northern Ireland companies, and with our dedicated in-market team on the ground, we are well-equipped to support their expansion and guide them through this dynamic landscape. This trade mission, which brings together seven of Northern Irelands leading companies, provides an invaluable platform to win business, forge strategic partnerships, engage with regional leaders, and connect with the Northern Irish diaspora. These connections will foster long-term economic benefits for Northern Ireland and the wider island. Pictured at Marina Bay in Singapore are representatives of the seven NI companies on the joint trade mission to Singapore with Economy Minister Conor Murphy and Invest NI staff. Enterprise Ireland client companies participating on the mission are Continuum Commerce, CubeMatch, Daon, Fexco, GetVisibility, Intuition and TransferMate. Leo Clancy, CEO of Enterprise Ireland, said: Singapore is one of the most developed and innovative financial hubs in Asia and is a gateway for the broader Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Asia-Pacific markets. READ NEXT: Belfast Marathon man who had a cardiac arrest tells his survival story thanks to lifesaving defibrillator "The Asia-Pacific market is the fourth largest export market for Irish fintech and financial services companies with many Irish companies actively helping the Singaporean and wider Asia-Pacific banking sector to address challenges related to digital transformation, regulatory compliance, cybersecurity, financial inclusion, and sustainability. "This trade mission will serve to showcase the dynamic and innovative fintech sector across the island of Ireland and support the participating companies to expand their presence in the vibrant Asia-Pacific fintech ecosystem, in a very welcome partnership with our colleagues in Invest Northen Ireland. Louth County Council are inviting applications for funding for Festivals to take place in 2025 There are two streams of funding open for applications: New Enhanced Louth County Council Festival Grant Initiative 2025 Applications for funding, up to a maximum grant of 8,000, are now being sought by Louth County Council under the Festival Grant Initiative 2025. This initiative is open to local and community festivals and/or events which will benefit the local economy and tourism in the County. This will be the only funding scheme available for tourism events occurring in 2025. Louth County Council Regional Festivals & Participative Events Programme 2025 Applications for funding are now being sought by Louth County Council, in partnership with Failte Ireland, under the Regional Festivals & Participative Events Programme 2025. This is open to festivals/events which aim to draw tourists from outside the locality and will showcase Louths culture, heritage and landscape. Read Next: Louth senator says Fine Gael to cut costs for businesses in Louth within first 100 day Application forms for both these initiatives are available to download on the Louth County Council website. Completed Application Forms must be returned to: Festival Grant Funding, Susan L Murphy, Economic Development Section, Louth County Council, Town Hall, Crowe Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth, A91 W20C by 5pm on Friday, 10th January 2025 or submitted by email to tourism@louthcoco.ie. The Drogheda Women and Childrens Refuge (DWCR) has launched its annual Christmas Campaign, generously supported by the Rotary Club Drogheda. This support helps address the rising demand for refuge and support services for women and children affected by coercive control and domestic abuse, especially during the Christmas season and into the new year. The Louth based refuge provides 24/7 support, faces a significant surge in demand during the holidays. Susan Keogh, CEO of DWCR, expressed her gratitude for the Rotary Club's support: The Rotary Club understands our plight, and their generous donation will enable us to continue supporting women and children in urgent need. Christmas is meant to be a time of joy and togetherness, but for many, its a season of intensified challenges. This donation will allow us to extend critical support as demand increases. Read Next: Convicted killer sentenced for vicious attack on garda in Dundalk The Rotary Club Drogheda selected DWCR as a beneficiary, recognizing the alignment between their missions. Seamus Daly, President of the Rotary Club Drogheda, said, Providing this donation and supporting Drogheda Women and Childrens Refuge fits perfectly with our commitment to fostering peace and community well-being. Its a privilege to support a cause that makes a direct, positive impact on vulnerable families in our community. DWCRs Christmas Campaign invites the community to help women and children escaping domestic violence by donating warm clothing, shopping vouchers for mothers, and financial contributions to assist with emergency costs for families during this period. "These donations are essential to helping DWCR empower women in rebuilding their lives and giving children a sense of stability and security," a spokesperson said. Louth Sinn Fein candidate in General Election 2024, Cllr Antoin Watters has said that one year on from the floods that devastated parts of the Cooley Peninsula, there are still homeowners and farmers in north Louth who still have not received any financial assistance from the Government to deal with the damage from the flooding. Cllr Watters was speaking to the Dundalk Democrat following the Dundalk Municipal District November meeting, where he said that in "eight years as a councillor, I've seen a lot of the problems that are affecting local authorities and that was kind of summed up last year with the flooding. "Unfortunately at the minute we're still dealing with farmers and some homeowners who still haven't got any financial assistance to deal with the damage from the flooding. That's a big issue. We're now over a year past the flood event last Halloween, so that's a disgrace. We've had ministers and photo opportunities but that's no good to people. People need money to get their lives and their farms and family and livelihoods back together. That's not good enough." Cllr Watters said that while homeowners have received some payments, "they still haven't got their full amount. But farmers have not got any payments for damage to their lands. Three or four days ago I was talking to a farmer who is still waiting for it." He said that there was some payments that covered items like fodder, "but there's no money for the damage that was done to their property." "So, as a rural candidate", he added, "I'm hoping to try and help rural communities, all around Louth, who are seeing these inefficiencies and how the Government is operating and how neglect its happening for rural Ireland, its not good enough." He continued: "One of my other priorities is in relation to planning. I did a lot of work in relation to the development plan last time, to try and make it better. It's not ideal, we need to do more on that. Our party spokesman, Eoin O Broin is also looking at some waivers in relation to families and young people who have mobile homes and modular homes at their house, where they're looking for an exemption in relation to that. That's very important. People are struggling to save for mortgages, they still need somewhere to live. "That's very important to give young people a chance. People need their own independence for their own mental health, their own wee family that they may have. They want to have their own place to live and that's very important, so I'm going to keep working on that and I'm really looking forward to the challenge." The local councillor further added that the reception he has been receiving while canvassing has been very positive. "Really good response on the doors", he commented. "People know that I've worked hard for them over the last eight years. They'll be sad to see me leave the council, is what they're saying to me and I appreciate that, but I think I can do a lot at a higher level and I'm going to give it my best shot to try and get there." November 16, 2024: The Russian government has tried to keep the reality of the war in Ukraine from the Russian people. Ukraine uses inexpensive drones to regularly remind Russians that there is a war going on and that Ukrainian forces can still reach deep inside Russia. In September Ukrainian drones attacked the Russian capital of Moscow. This attack came in at night, when it was more difficult to spot the drones flying low to avoid radar and visual identification. While many drones crashed or were shot down, there were so many that reached Moscow and attacked designated targets, as well as random ones, to cause many explosions that could be heard and fires that could be seen. This was an embarrassment for the government, who had denied numerous other drone attacks inside Russia. Even Ukrainian drones shot down caused problems, like temporarily shutting down one of the four airports that serve Moscow and halting traffic on one of the major highways nearby. Crashing drones were often on fire and started fires wherever they fell. The firefighters had a busy night. Over the last two years Russian missile and drone attacks on civilian targets have killed or wounded thousands of civilians and left even more homeless. Because millions of Ukrainians have fled the country, there are plenty of empty homes and apartments to house the homeless. Most Russians live outside the cities, many of them in remote rural areas. The non-city Russians comprise most of the soldiers sent to fight and die in Ukraine. That means theres little symphony for Muscovites inconvenienced by the Ukrainian drones. While the drones attacked many rural targets, these were military or manufacturing operations that were largely idle and empty at night. The damage was very visible to a lot of Russians once the sun came up. The Ukrainians were reminding Russia and Russians that the cheap drones, manufactured in Ukraine, cause a lot of damage in Russia without any Ukrainians killed or injured. The drones are remote controlled or autonomous to deal with jamming. The drone operators in Ukraine are hard to find and usually working and living in bunkers. The Ukrainian drone attacks are a form of psychological warfare against Russia and its people. Despite regular Russian pronouncements of victories in Ukraine, the drones keep coming and proving that Ukraine is not defeated and still very visibly fighting. Charles Haughey had succeeded Jack Lynch as Taoiseach and Fianna Fail leader in December, 1979, and had inherited an 84-seat majority, when, with 148 seats in the Dail, all that was needed was 75. With the number of Dail seats increasing to 166 at the 1981 election, the number needed for a bare majority would, perhaps ironically, become 84. Haughey would be one of three new party leaders contesting their first general election, as the defeat of the Grand Coalition government of Fine Gael and Labour in 1977 had resulted in the resignations of leaders Liam Cosgrave and Brendan Corish, with Garret FitzGerald and Frank Cluskey succeeding them respectively. Fianna Fail had been riding high in opinion polls at the start of the year, with Haughey expected to announce a run to the country at his partys ard fheis on February 14. The Stardust fire occurred in the early hours of St Valentines Day in Artane, in Haugheys constituency, killing 48 people and injuring 214. Death at the disco, was the Evening Echo headline, adding: The noise and screams were awful. The ard fheis was postponed, and the H-Block hunger strike erupted in the Maze Prison. By the time Haughey called an election, the tide had gone out for the ruling party. On Wednesday, May 6, our top story began: A line of mourners formed outside the house of the late Bobby Sands in West Belfast today as neighbours paid their last respects to the hunger striker lying in an open coffin A week later, our splash began: The death of a hunger striker, Francis Hughes, and the possibility of further deaths among the Provisional prisoners at the Maze, seems to be pushing back further and further the dates available to the Taoiseach for a General Election. Former Taoiseach Garret FitzGerald. By Thursday, May 21, the issue seemed settled. Last day of Dail? Election likely on June 11 was our headline. The next day, it was: Ten per cent cut in tax, as Fine Gael began the bidding. Fianna Fail would in turn promise greater spending. On Saturday, June 6, our headline Garret claims huge swing was countermanded across the page by But bookie has FF as minority government. The following Monday, we led with Jack, vote catcher, is back in town, as Charlie Haughey was said to be planning on rolling out a secret weapon on Leeside, his predecessor, Jack Lynch, the greatest vote catcher Cork has ever known. Taking no chances, we led on election day with the safe headline It could be very close, beneath a montage of photos of Charles and Maureen Haughey voting in Kinsealy National School; President Paddy Hillery casting his vote at the stroke of nine oclock at the national school in the Phoenix Park; Finance Minister Gene Fitzgerald voting with his wife Noreen in Bishopstown; and Garret and Joan FitzGerald voting in Rathmines. The next day, we led with Dick Brazils story Big names tumbling in election battle as Labour leader Frank Cluskey was heading for the loss of his seat, as was Fianna Fail TD for Cork South-West and future agriculture minister Joe Walsh, and MEP TJ Maher, running as an Independent in Tipperary South, was facing defeat. Jack Lynch on the campaign trail in Cork in June 1981. Two Anti-H-Block candidates were elected, Paddy Agnew in Louth and Kieran Doherty in Cavan-Monaghan. Doherty, 25, died on hunger strike in the Maze on August 2. He remains the Dails shortest-serving deputy. In the end, Fianna Fail lost six TDs, leaving the party with 78 seats, and Labour lost two, one of them its party leader. Fine Gael picked up a whopping 22 seats. Between them, Fine Gael and Labour had 80 seats. By Thursday, June 18, our headline was Coalition fancied, as Garret FitzGerald resumed talks with the new Labour Party leader Michael OLeary, who had replaced Frank Cluskey the night before. The next day, politics was pushed off the top slot and our headline Gardai believe killer is known related to the murder of Nora Sheehan, a 53-year-old mother of three from Kilreendowney Place, Ballyphehane, whose body had been found in Shippool Woods in Innishannon. In August, 2023, fully 42 years later, legal history would be made when Noel Long, by then 74 years old, a sex offender with an address at Maulbawn, Passage West, was found guilty of Mrs Sheehans murder. It marked the longest span in Irish history between a murder being committed and a conviction being secured. Coalition talks wore on, and on Tuesday, June 30, our city final edition led with a line that was of its time: With the whole nation (and indeed Irishmen everywhere) anxiously awaiting todays cliffhanger vote for Taoiseach in Dail Eireann, an air of unprecedented tension and excitement built up in Leinster House all through the early afternoon. Later that day, a minority Fine Gael and Labour government was formed, with Garret FitzGerald as Taoiseach. It would only last seven months, falling over budget proposals to put VAT on childrens shoes. Cork Penny Dinners has unveiled a new temporary facility, while its existing premises undergoes refurbishment. The organisation, which is one of the citys oldest charities that supports people in need, has moved around the corner from its existing site on Little Hanover St, to the Croi na Laoi Caitriona Twomey Wellness Centre on James St. The new centre boasts extensive catering, food production and cold storage facilities, a wellness room, a training facility for up to 16 people, state of the art IT facilities, and a volunteer and staff room. The old facility will be undergoing extensive refurbishment and in the future will reopen to resume serving those most in need. Gary Heslin, chairperson of the board of trustees at Cork Penny Dinners said: Investing in infrastructure to improve our services is critical. I have no doubt that the investments already made in James St and in the future in Little Handover St will ensure that the great work of Cork Penny Dinners continues for generations to come. With our new premises we can offer even more services, including training, health and wellness support, recovery meetings, mental health workshops, arts and drama classes, all of which can provide vital stepping stones, for those who need it, out of homelessness, or into employment. Cork Penny Dinners volunteer and coordinator, Caitriona Twomey said: At the heart of everything we do are the people in need that we serve, and having these additional facilities in Croi na Laoi demonstrates our commitment to servicing and supporting people in need now and into the future. While Little Hanover St is closing for refurbishment, to everyone coming through our door we promise the same supportive and welcoming environment they would have experienced before, where a sense of community and belonging is offered to everyone. All services offered by Cork Penny Dinners are provided free of charge, seven days a week, from 9am. For more information on Cork Penny Dinners visit www.corkpennydinners.ie. A Cork TD who is currently seeking re-election has revealed that he had major surgery for a serious illness only five weeks ago. Thomas Gould, Sinn Fein TD for Cork North Central, told The Echo he had undergone a major surgical procedure in the Mercy University Hospital last month. I had a major procedure five weeks ago, but listen, Ive made a great recovery, Im flying fit, were out on the doors, were getting a great response, and well drive on now, Mr Gould said. The northside TD, who was elected to Dail Eireann for the first time in the 2020 general election, said he was overwhelmed by the kindness and well wishes he had received from friends across the city. I want to say thanks to everyone who has been thinking about me and asking for me and saying a prayer, it means a lot, Mr Gould said. I want to thank as well the doctors and nurses and all the staff in the Mercy Hospital for all the incredible care I received, they really were superb, and they really look after people so well. He said he was delighted to be on the mend and back out canvassing, and wanted to put his illness behind him, and added that he did not want it to be a big deal. This is Cork city. Everybody knows everything, but were not defined by our illnesses. Ive made a great recovery, and I want to get back to doing my job for the people I work for, he said. In the 2020 election, Mr Gould topped the poll with 13,811 first preferences, nearly 27% of the vote. At the count centre, his father, Tony Gould, gave The Echo a headline for the ages, declaring Mr Gould, the first person from Knocknaheeny to be elected a TD, the taoiseach of the northside. Mr Gould said being a Teachta Dala a messenger of the people - was the greatest honour of his life and, if re-elected, he would continue to give his constituents his all. Mr Gould said he was 200% focused on the November 29 general election and getting re-elected. Were fighting this election on the issues, and thats housing, homelessness, hospital waiting lists, special education, disability services, water quality, childcare, transport, infrastructure, and the neglect of the northside by successive governments, he said. The important thing now is to continue to give the people of the northside the sort of representation they deserve, and hopefully we can get enough seats for Sinn Fein across the city and across the country to really make a difference and change the government for the better for everyone. Theres over 20 candidates running in Cork North Central this time out, so its going to be a real dogfight for me to retain my seat, so I really need every single number one. November 17, 2024: NATO has moved its three decade-old reachback support operations to Poland. Reachback electronically connects troops in a combat zone with a large number of tech experts and other support personnel stationed anywhere else in the world, but generally in the US. Its primary active operations are now in Poland, near the Ukrainian border. This speeds up repairs and improved maintenance for the many weapons and munitions NATO has and still is supplying to Ukraine. The war in Ukraine is unique because of the large number of new (to Ukrainians) weapons that have arrived since the Russians invaded in early 2022. The countries sending this gear cannot send their own personnel to Ukraine to help maintain or repair the new weapons and equipment. Since Ukraine is not a NATO member, NATO nations do not send their own troops or technicians into Ukraine. Poland has also become the place where Ukrainians can come for training by NATO personnel as that is often inconvenient, impossible and illegal in Ukraine. A solution was soon found by updating the reachback technique. After the first Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2014, NATO military and tech advisors went to Ukraine and established good relationships with the Ukrainians they supported. This often included trainers of support techs leaving Ukraine after their terms of service were up, would give Ukrainians their cell phone number and call any time they had an emergency the departing expert could help with. These NATO trainers in Ukraine had to leave after the 2022 Russian invasion started, so group video software like Zoom was added so groups of Ukrainians could participate in a tutorial by someone outside Ukraine on how to use, maintain or repair some new bit of equipment. The Ukrainians have been very resourceful and inventive themselves and recognized the enhanced reachback capability as yet another way to make their military more effective than the Russians. Reachback has been heavily used by American forces since the 1990s. This has been the case even when the United States has very few troops on the ground in places like Iraq and Syria. In those situations, the Americans had to be resourceful finding targets for the coalition of NATO, Arab and other allied warplanes to attack from above. Just because the attacks were being made with precision munitions did not eliminate the risk of civilian casualties. There have been few of these, and none are ignored on the ground because Arab Islamic terrorists will invent them if they can to rally more support to their cause. There have been so few civilian casualties because the coalition used new American intelligence techniques. This system uses many analysts based anywhere, but largely in the United States, who carefully examine the aircraft and drone video and still photos for information that identifies Islamic terrorists and any nearby civilians. This is not easy just using overhead video and some electronic intercepts. The analysts do have software and electronic tools to get more out of the images and electronic chatter. Within minutes, hours or days the analysts can provide highly accurate, and safe from the possibility of civilian casualties, GPS coordinates. Sometimes armed drones or aircraft are already overhead, waiting to be directed to a specific target. This concept, which the U.S. began developing in the 1990s and used with increasing frequency after September 11, 2001, was called reachback. Originally this meant that some parts of a unit ordered overseas would remain in the United States and use Internet-like communications capabilities to do their work from their home base. Sending fewer people overseas is a major advantage, as it means less transportation, and supply effort is needed. Since the 1990s it has been noted that modern communications make it practical for some support units to stay behind, with no loss in effectiveness in the entire unit. Reservists make for better reachback troops, because they have to go through more additional combat training before being sent overseas. Moreover, the reservists can be taken on and off active duty as the workload changes. Reachback works particularly well for intelligence work. With reachback, the few intel personnel in the combat zone are mainly there to work with local counterparts and provide them with intel collected by the drones and other sources. For the Iraq/Syria operation, which involves several hundred manned aircraft, drones and several satellites, the reachback intel operation in the United States has been equally large, so that analysts can be quickly switched to the most important possible targets. Often, though, the analysts are looking at a battle area stakeout that can last several days to weeks or more to identify who the targets are, where they fight from, where they live, where they store their supplies, especially ammunition and explosives, and which vehicles they use. In addition more detailed information is collected like where the enemy forces operate from, which could be bunkers, buildings or ruins where they place snipers or other portable weapons. Once the analysts believe they have the most targets they are going to find, they send the target list off to the waiting targeting analysts in the Middle East and the airstrikes are carried out as quickly as possible. The bombers have their own video cameras in their targeting pods so pilots can double check for the presence of civilians or anything else the original analysts noted. In some cases, all the analysts back in the United States have to do is confirm the identity and location of a major leader or a meeting of key people. This will usually be attacked by a single aircraft or drone. The Islamic terrorists know that when several warplanes appear overhead bad things are probably about to happen to them. The same analyst teams used for air strikes in Syria and Iraq are composed of people with lots of experience at this. While their recent experience might be in Afghanistan or Yemen, Somalia and now Ukraine, most spent time covering Iraq operations before 2011. Many of these analysts have retired. Some have been persuaded to return and help out with operations in Ukraine. The important thing is these men and women have lots of experience and skill with quickly adapting to new analysis software and the many major updates since 2001. All this is made possible because of reachback. The main benefit is that reachback enables a lot of troops to operate from a foreign base without being there. Many other nations are noticing. One of the most frequent uses of reachback is the operation of the larger American Predator and Reaper drones. It involves operating drones with crews connected via satellite communications. In 2014 the United States established an intelligence base in Niger, which is the eastern neighbor of Mali and just south of Algeria and Libya. Only a hundred Americans are stationed there, most of them to maintain several American drones that fly surveillance missions over Mali. Thanks to satellite communications, this base has hundreds of other people involved in what it is doing, almost as if they were there, by using reachback. For example, most of the people actually operating the drones are back in the United States. Operating drones is very labor intensive, as you need a pilot and one or more sensor operators for something like the Predator or Reaper. In addition, you need shifts of operators because these air force drones typically stay in the air for 12-36 hours at a time. So having the operators back in the United States greatly reduces the number of people you have overseas. The drone maintenance crews get the aircraft ready for take off and on the airstrip. But after that the flight operations crew back in the U.S. can take over. Enhanced reachback has provided Ukrainian forces with yet another advantage over their Russian adversaries. Michael Bolton A Sinn Fein TD has said their housing plan will help remove the red tape involved in housing. Mayo TD Rose Conway-Walsh was speaking as Sinn Fein launched their proposals on housing ahead of the General Election on November 29th. In the party's housing plan, they say they will build 300,000 homes over the next five years. On Up Front with Katie Hannon on Monday night, housing spokesperson Eoin O Broin said Sinn Fein would introduce a scheme to provide 60,000 affordable homes, and criticised the Government's help to buy scheme. Speaking to Breakingnews.ie, Ms Conway-Walsh said the "red tape" needs to be removed when it comes to housing. "What we are doing is addressing the supply side. The way we are doing that is giving a lot of the responsibility to the approved housing bodies and local authorities. "It will get rid of a lot of the red tape. What is happening now is if Mayo County Council decide tomorrow to build on this greenfield site, it can be years before anything will be done on that land by the time you get through all the bureaucracy. "We need to cut the bureaucracy, and also the local authority will know what the demand is in the different local authority areas in the different counties. "We have the affordable home scheme as well, which will address the situation where people are caught. If you are a family of four, and you are earning more than 34,000 a year, you are not approved for social housing. "You are caught in that trap that the banks are not looking at you because you are not earning enough, and the local authority won't look at you because you are earning too much." Ms Conway-Walsh said she hopes Sinn Fein's housing plan would bring young people back to the country who have emigrated. The Mayo TD spoke of her own son, who has moved to London as an example of people who have had to leave the country due to the housing crisis. "My own son has just graduated and he has moved to London. Not because he couldn't get a job in London, he had offers, but because he was faced with the choice he could either live with his parents, or live independently. "The only way he can afford to live independently, is to go to London. He is sharing in London. He has a nice apartment with two others in Fulham that is affordable for the wages he is getting. "If you look across this county, and across Erris where I am from, every second young person is gone to Australia for the same reason. They cannot get housing near where they want to work. "I want for those people to be able to come back. Many of those people are from rural areas, they have to be able to build on their own land, that is a huge issue." The Mayo TD also criticised comments made by Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary on teachers at a Fine Gael event over the weekend. The Dail is full of teachers nothing wrong with teachers, I love teachers, but I wouldnt generally employ a lot of teachers to go out and get things done, he said. Ms Conway-Walsh said she was disappointed in Mr O'Leary and the Fine Gael members present at the event for their reaction to the comments. "I was absolutely appalled, not so much of Michael O'Leary because I wouldn't expect anything less, he makes those outrageous comments. "To hear the sniggering by the Fine Gael people in that room, I am sure there was elected representatives there as well as party members, if that was in my party I would be ashamed. "Teachers have done such a phenomenal job, particularly in the last 10 years, in what they have had to deal with in terms of the mental health of children and breakdown of families. "There is children going to school in this county that are homeless, that are in temporary accommodation. They go to school, and teachers have to put all those pieces together. "To see a Fine Gael gathering sniggering that if you want a job done, don't ask a teacher to do it when teachers are multitasking and burnt out in the jobs they have to do. (St. Joseph's Church Facebook page)St. Joseph's Church in Upper Bukit Timah, Singapore. Cardinal William Goh in Singapore has called for religious and racial unity after a priest was stabbed in the face during a Catholic Mass, sending shockwaves across the southeast Asian nation with its complex ethnic and religious mosaic. The man stabbed Father Christopher Lee while he was distributing communion during the November 9, Saturday children's evening Mass at St. Joseph's Church in Upper Bukit Timah, Singapore, raising concerns in the multicultural island state with a complex religious tapestry. The 57-year-old Lee had an 8 cm. (3.1 inches) laceration on his tongue, a 3 cm. cut on his upper left lip, and a 4 cm. cut on the corner of his mouth. He has since been discharged from hospital, the Straits Times reported. He was conscious when taken to the National University Hospital (NUH) after the incident, and was in stable condition on the night of Nov 9. Responding to Lee's stabbing, Cardinal Goh conveyed the collective grief of the Catholic community, emphasizing that while such violence is deeply unsettling, it serves both as a sobering reminder for vigilance and as a testament to the church's resilience. "The truth is we should not be overly surprised that this incident happened in our most sacred space," he noted. "A person could attack a religious leader, or anyone for that matter, in a church for various reasons." He cited potential motives ranging from terrorism and fanaticism to personal grievances and mental health issues, according to La Croix International. Congregation members, including the Archdiocesan Emergency Response Team, subdued the assailant before police arrived. A 37-year-old man, Basnayake Keith Spencer, was charged in court on Nov. 11 over the incident. The Singaporean was handed one count of voluntarily causing grievous harm with a dangerous weapon. The Singapore Police Force noted the attacker's history of serious offenses, including drug misuse and causing grievous hurt, and stated that initial investigations suggested he acted alone, with no current indication of terrorism. "Based on the preliminary investigations, the man," they noted, "is believed to have acted alone and the police do not suspect that this is an act of terrorism, for now." "The public, is urged to remain calm and refrain from speculation as investigations are ongoing to ascertain the motive behind this incident." Spencer has been charged with the offense of voluntarily causing grievous hurt by a dangerous weapon and has been remanded in custody by a court in Singapore for three weeks. Goh urged Catholics to "not be paralyzed with fear," and pointed out that Singapore's church was prepared for such incidents. He urged Singapore's clergy to courageously continue in their ministry while keeping in mind the possibility of such risks and attacks. Singapore has a population of six million people. It is a tiny state of 709 sq km (274 sq miles), with ethnic Chinese making up 74 percent of the population, Malays 14 percent, and ethnic Indians 9 percent according to the CIA Factbook. Buddhism, with 31 percent, is the religion with the biggest following, followed by Christianity at 19 percent, Muslims at 15.6 percent, and Hindus at 5 percent. Pope Francis made a 3 day visit to Singapore on Sept 11 of 2024. "Going overboard with security measures may discourage the faithful from coming to worship," said Goh. While ensuring safety is essential, the church must remain accessible and welcoming, maintaining its role as a refuge for spiritual solace said Cardinal Goh, while noting that vigilance does not mean surrendering to fear but, rather living prudently. "We must continue living our lives normally while taking practical precautions and looking out for each other." "Religious leaders must recognize that as public figures, we bear a certain amount of risk," Cardinal Goh said, underscoring that while security should not be taken lightly, clergy must continue their ministry with courage. "We firmly believe God is in charge of our lives and that He will transform evil into good. We cannot allow evil to paralyze the proclamation of the Gospel." (Photo: City Harvest Church / Youtube)Pastor Kong Hee preaches a sermon at City Harvest Church in Singapore on November 17, 2013 in a video still available on the site's YouTube channel. The imam who was the chief cleric at a mosque in Singapore has been fined and will be repatriated to India for making offensive remarks targeting Christians and Jews that authorities said aimed to "repudiate divisive speech." During Friday prayers on Jan. 6, the cleric, Nalla Mohamed Abdul Jameel Abdul Malik, sued the phrase, "Grant us help against the Jews and the Christians," the Singapore Ministry of Home Affairs said on its website. The 46-year-old cleric pleaded guilty to one count of committing an act which he knew was prejudicial to the maintenance of harmony between different religious groups and was likely to disturb the public tranquillity, the todayonline newspaper reported. It was believed to be the first case in multi-ethnic Singapore of a religious leader being prosecuted for delivering an inappropriate sermon. The cleric known locally as "Nalla," apologized and "recognised that it was unacceptable in Singapore's multi-racial and multi-religious context," the ministry said in a statement, Reuters news agency reported. After pleading guilty before a Singapore court, the cleric was fined 4,000 Singapore dollars (US$2,862). The home affairs ministry said, "He will be repatriated...Any religious leader from any religion who makes such statements will be held accountable for their actions." It said the government has "the responsibility to act quickly and firmly to repudiate divisive speech, even if the course of action is sometimes difficult." 'DILIGENT CHIEF IMAM' The ministry noted, "Nalla has worked diligently as Chief Imam at the Jamae Chulia Mosque over the past seven years, attending to the needs of his congregation, and reaching out to other faiths. He has not been deliberately malicious." "Nevertheless, what he did was wrong. And he has admitted it," a ministry spokesperson told Today. "Given the nature of the breach, action had to be taken. The fair and impartial application of the law protects all communities, including Muslims and other minority religious communities. The Government has taken firm action against persons from other religions as well." While the imam had since made a public apology and met interfaith leaders to express regret, District Judge Jasbendar Kaur said a deterrent sentence was warranted given strong concerns from the public. The judge said Singapore cannot allow any person or group to sow discord or promote enmity among different religious or racial groups, the judge said. Muslims are thought to make up nearly 15 percent of Singapore's nearly six million people while Christians account for 22 percent and Hindus just over 5 percent. Buddhists make up for 34 percent of the population and Taoists 11 percent. A man involved in a transatlantic tractor scam worth more than 130,000 has been jailed for over one year after his criminal activity was exposed. Augustin-Paul Ciceu was running a transport firm which was initially approached to ship a tractor from Europe to Canada in March 2020. Ciceu, from Dudley, West Midlands, then offered the legitimate Canadian purchaser two more tractors for sale and the transaction was agreed and the money was paid. The 52-year-old who referred to himself as Gus during trade dealings - claimed hed wait to send all three tractors together. However, he never sent any farming equipment leaving for North America and it was reported to West Midlands Police. The force's enquiries established they never left the country and Ciceu didnt even owned the tractors he had sold. The video he sent to the Canadian purchaser showed tractors belonging to someone else, the police said. Ciceu, of High Street, Dudley, was convicted of theft of the tractor which was never shipped. He was also convicted of two counts of fraud by false representation in connection with the others hed sold without owning. Ciceu refused to give evidence in his trial and was sentenced to a year and nine months imprisonment at Wolverhampton Crown Court on 8 November. West Midlands Police said it was now looking at retrieving the ill-gotten gains under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA). DC Ash Forster, who led the investigation, said: Ciceu took advantage of what should have been a legitimate shipping transaction to trick the trader into purchasing tractors he didnt even have to sell, and claimed it was a business transaction that was never completed. This was a complex investigation and we worked with the victim, who travelled over from Canada for the trial, to build a convincing case. "We will leave no stone unturned to convict criminals. Gladiator II, the highly-anticipated sequel to Ridley Scott's 2000 film Gladiator, is out in theatres. The director returns to helm the continuation of the Rome-set saga years after Russell Crowes Maximus was killed in the Colosseum. It features a stellar star cast that includes Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, Joseph Quinn and more. The story picks up after the events of the original film where Paul Mescals Lucius is fated to follow his father, Maximus footsteps. If you watched the film and need a run-through of all the events, here's what went down. What happened in Gladiator II? While Lucius garners popularity at the Colosseum with audiences and fellow gladiators alike, Acacius and Lucilla are preparing for an insurrection to take the twin Emperors down. At some point, Lucilla also sneaks in to meet Lucius and inform him of his identity. However, he doesn't believe her. Acacius and Lucilla are soon caught for planning their coup. As a result, Acacius is thrown into the Colosseum with Lucius. This is where he tells him about Maximus. The two throw their weapons and refuse to kill each other. Geta and Caracalla give the order to shoot Acacius down. He is killed by the arrows as an enraged Lucius asks if this is how Rome treats her champions. This sparks a riot as the people begin fighting with the empires guards. Later, Caracalla kills Geta with Macrinus help and claims his position as the sole emperor. Up next, Macrinus kills Caracalla before shooting an arrow that kills Lucilla. It can be that he was actually trying to kill Lucius, who had gone to rescue his mother. It's important to note that Macrinus had a pretty good reason to hate Lucilla as he was a slave under her father, Marcus Aurelius. We wish more of his backstory should have come out. What happens at the end of Gladiator II? The film opens with Lucius fighting alongside the troops of his African city Numidia against the Roman troops led by Pedro Pascals Marcus Acacius. During the battle, his wife dies and he is taken prisoner. But not before Lucius watches Acacius give the command to kill his wife. We find out that Acacius himself doesn't want to continue the Roman expansion under the twin emperors, Quinns Geta and Hechingers Caracalla. His views are shared by his wife, Connie Nielsens Lucilla who is Marcus Aurelius daughter and Lucius mother. Of course, Lucius doesn't know this and is bent on taking Acacius down. Once in Rome, Lucius is quickly picked as a gladiator by Denzel Washingtons Macrinus who has political schemes of his own. What ensues is a series of death matches in the Colosseum. These range from fighting with rhinos and battling it out with sharks swimming in the arena. We kid you not!While Lucius garners popularity at the Colosseum with audiences and fellow gladiators alike, Acacius and Lucilla are preparing for an insurrection to take the twin Emperors down. At some point, Lucilla also sneaks in to meet Lucius and inform him of his identity. However, he doesn't believe her. Acacius and Lucilla are soon caught for planning their coup. As a result, Acacius is thrown into the Colosseum with Lucius. This is where he tells him about Maximus. The two throw their weapons and refuse to kill each other. Geta and Caracalla give the order to shoot Acacius down. He is killed by the arrows as an enraged Lucius asks if this is how Rome treats her champions. This sparks a riot as the people begin fighting with the empires guards. Later, Caracalla kills Geta with Macrinus help and claims his position as the sole emperor. Up next, Macrinus kills Caracalla before shooting an arrow that kills Lucilla. It can be that he was actually trying to kill Lucius, who had gone to rescue his mother. It's important to note that Macrinus had a pretty good reason to hate Lucilla as he was a slave under her father, Marcus Aurelius. We wish more of his backstory should have come out. In the final clash, Lucius kills Macrinus as they thrash around in the river Tiber and his body is carried away by the current. In the end, Lucius, now wearing his father Maximus' armour, reveals himself as the true heir to the throne and addresses the soldiers and people of Rome. He urges them to join in and rebuild Rome according to his father and grandfathers principles. The film closes with Lucius standing in an empty Colosseum and we get a flashback of his father as he thinks about his legacy. Gladiator II is currently in theatres. The ending of Gladiator II opens up the possibility of another sequel as Lucius' journey as a leader has just begun. He's well on his way to becoming the emperor and upholding his family's ideology. While the makers have not announced the next instalment yet, it will be interesting to see where the franchise goes next. Would there be gladiators in it? Your guess is as good as ours.Gladiator II is currently in theatres. Spoiler alert: This article contains spoilers from Gladiator II. Critic's rating 3.5 /5 Freedom At Midnight directed by Nikkhil Advani is an interpretation of Larry Collins and Dominique Lapierres seminal novel of the same name. It offers a compelling and nuanced portrayal of India's tumultuous journey to independence, focusing on the intricate dynamics between its key leaders, particularly Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Jawaharlal Nehru during the years when balance of power got shifted from the British to the Indian leadership Patel emerges as the more grounded and effective leader in the series. His ability to tackle complex challenges head-on are highlighted throughout. In stark contrast to Nehru's idealism and, at times, indecisiveness, Patel is portrayed as the practical, solution-oriented counterpart. Director Advani presents Nehru as a dedicated and visionary figure, yet one who struggled with the political realities of the time. Nehrus idealism often clashed with the pragmatic demands of Partition, and his decisions are depicted as fraught with difficulties. The series suggests that while Nehru's commitment to a united India was unwavering, his occasional indecisiveness and diplomatic approach sometimes hindered more immediate, practical solutions. Nehrus personal relationships are also examined in the series, particularly his complex rapport with Lord Mountbatten, his wife Edwina, and with his mentor and ideal, Gandhiji. While Advani does not portray Nehru as weak, he highlights his vulnerability in the face of immense pressure, showing that his leadership was not without flaws. Nehrus personal vision for India, which often took precedence, sometimes made it difficult for him to manage the conflicting demands from various political factions, including the British and the Muslim League. In contrast to Nehru and Patel, Mahatma Gandhi is shown as a larger-than-life figure who remains incorruptible to his ideals till the end. Gandhi believed that a true leader should reach out to people and give his all to the betterment of his motherland. Hes shown going to places where Hindu Muslim riots were at their peak and diffusing tension. But hes not superhuman. He cant be everywhere and slowly witnesses the disintegration of his dream of a united India. In the end, hes more than a little hurt and sad that his life-long struggle hasnt borne the fruit he desired. Then theres Mohammad Ali Jinnah. Its said while Nehru was interested in making history, Jinnah was interested in Geography. Jinnah is portrayed as a megalomaniac who doesnt take kindly to the fact that Gandhi and Nehru have eclipsed him. His ego leads him to ask for a separate Muslim state and he gets his wish in the end when Punjab and Bengal are divided in half to form Pakistan. Its his call for Direct Action which leads to the riots, making a separate state a reality. And apart from them all and yet at the centre of things stand the British, symbolised by the husband and wife tag team of Louis and Edwina Mountbatten. They carry the White Mans burden of bringing peace and harmony during the turbulent times. They are portrayed as having Indias best interest at heart and shown grieving when its leaders make a choice for Partition. Lets not forget that Mountbatten was called upon to ensure both India and Pakistan remained Britains dominions even after Independence. And that India remained one till 1950, when it became a sovereign Republic after adapting its own constitution. Pakistan remained a dominion till 1956. The show doesnt tell us why both the Congress and the Muslim League agreed to this demand of the British. From the 1930s onwards, both parties were fighting for Poorna Swaraj total freedom. So this change in stance is strange indeed and could have benefitted from an examination. Subhash Chandra Bose and Dr BR Ambedkar are absent from the present narrative. From the 1920s, much like Nehru, to 1938-39, Bose was very much enamoured by Gandhi's ideals and was part of the Congress central command. And Ambedkar, before he famously framed India's constitution, which led to it being declared a Republic, was a known social reformer whose views were taken into consideration when the negotiations for Independence were taking place. Its baffling to see two prominent historical figures being absent from a historical drama. Rajendra Chawla has outdone himself as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. He truly gets into the spirit of the pragmatic and practical leader who knew it's not possible to make everyone happy. His scenes with both Gandhi and Nehru are the highlight of the series. Chirag Vohra doesnt have Gandhijis eyes, which brimmed with compassion for everyone. But his voice, mannerisms and body language mirrors that of the Mahatma. Hes able to lend a moral uprightness to his character. Sidhant Gupta just doesnt cut ice as Jawaharlal Nehru. Hes a fine actor but one feels he was overwhelmed by the task he was given. Hes shown acting more like a hot-headed Punjabi youth than a world leader known for his statesmanship and gravitas. The aura of Nehru is missing from Sidhants portrayal. Nehrus physicality, his robustness too is absent. Arif Zakaria brings out Jinnahs anger for sure but we dont see the man in totality in this portrayal. He was one of the most colourful figures of the freedom movement, a person more British than the British and yet who batted for radical Islam. Were not shown what brought this sea change. British actor Cordelia Bugeja has done a fairly decent job as Edwina Mountbatten. Her spiritual fascination for Nehru hasnt come out though. Luke McGibney plays Lord Louis Mountbatten with panache. He closely resembles the historical figure, so thats half the battle won. Mountbattens nickname was Dickie and Luke is more Dickie than Lord Mountbatten here. In conclusion, Freedom At Midnight, which is visually opulent, provides a balanced view of the leaders who were central to the transfer of power. It acknowledges Gandhijis monumental role in Indias independence while emphasising Nehrus and Patels leadership during the handover stage. Nehru was the idealistic visionary and Patel was the pragmatic unifier. Both of whom were instrumental in shaping the India that emerged from the throes of Partition. The series end hints at a season 2, where perhaps well see Patel exercising his ingenuity to bring the Indian royalty to its senses, Ambedkar racing to draft the constitution within the given time frame and Nehru emerging as Indias conscience keeper after Gandhiji's murder TRAILER : Freedom At Midnight A new study shows that the number of African elephants, the largest animals to inhabit the Earth, has been declining drastically over the last few years. A survey conducted in 37 countries from 1964 to 2016 revealed that the population of savanna elephants fell by 70 per cent on average while the forest elephant populations dropped by about 90 per cent read more While some places saw an immense decline in elephant population others witnessed a surge owing to conservation efforts. Pixabay They are the largest animals on Earth. There was a time when African elephants roamed free. But not any more. They are in grave danger. New research shows a massive decline in the population of these mammals in various parts of the continent over the last half-century. The study published on Monday (November 11), led by wildlife experts at Colorado State University in the United States studied two African elephant species, namely the savanna elephant and forest elephant. The survey was conducted at 475 sites in 37 countries from 1964 to 2016. The results are concerning. Advertisement What is the result of the study? Known for being highly intelligent and social, the African elephant species have existed for millions of years. The study conducted by researchers revealed that the population of savanna elephants fell by 70 per cent on average while the forest elephant populations dropped by about 90 per cent on average at the sites that were surveyed. There has been a 77 per cent population decrease on average at the various surveyed sites across both species. Also Read: Explained: Why is Namibia planning to cull elephants, zebras, and wildebeest amid drought? The loss of large mammals is a significant ecological issue for Africa and the planet, said conservation ecologist and study co-author Dave Balfour, a research associate in the Centre for African Conservation Ecology at Nelson Mandela University in South Africa. Which places have witnessed a drop in population? While some places saw an immense decline in elephant population others witnessed a surge owing to conservation efforts. The African elephant is one of the most sentient and intelligent species on Earth. Pixabay A lot of the lost populations wont come back, and many low-density populations face continued pressures. We likely will lose more populations going forward, said George Wittemyer, a Colorado State University professor of wildlife conservation and chair of the scientific board of the conservation group Save the Elephants, who helped lead the study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. What is the reason for the population decline? One of the major reasons for the decline in number of these African giants is poaching. Loss of habitat, climate change and loss of genetic diversity can be other reasons. Poaching is still at the top with these mammals being hunted for their tusks, sold illegally on an international black market driven mostly by ivory demand in China and other parts of Asia. The forest elephant population is estimated to be about a third that of savanna elephants. Poaching has affected forest elephants disproportionately and has ravaged populations of both species in northern and eastern Africa. We have lost a number of elephant populations across many countries, but the northern Sahel region of Africa - for example in Mali, Chad and Nigeria - has been particularly hard hit. High pressure and limited protection have culminated in populations being extirpated, Wittemyer said. Advertisement Where is the population rising? According to the study, elephant populations saw a rise in southern African regions by 42 per cent. We have seen real success in a number of places across Africa, but particularly in southern Africa, with strong growth in populations in Botswana, Zimbabwe and Namibia. For populations showing positive trends, we have had active stewardship and management by the governments or outside groups that have taken on a management role, Wittemyer said. Notably, the study did not track a continent-wide population tally because the various surveys employed different methodologies over different time frames to estimate local elephant population density, making a unified headcount impossible. Instead, it assessed population trends at each of the surveyed sites. A population estimate by conservationists conducted separately from this study put the two species combined at between 415,000 and 540,000 elephants as of 2016, the last year of the study period. It remains the most recent comprehensive continent-wide estimate. Advertisement Why elephants matter The worlds third extant elephant species, the slightly smaller Asian elephant, is facing a population crisis of its own, with similar factors at play as in Africa. Of African elephants, Wittemyer said, While the trends are not good, it is important to recognise the successes we have had and continue to have. Learning how and where we can be successful in conserving elephants is as important as recognising the severity of the decline they have experienced. Also Read: World Elephant Day: How railway tracks have become graveyards for jumbos in India Wittemyer added of these elephants, Not only one of the most sentient and intelligent species we share the planet with, but also an incredibly important part of ecosystems in Africa that structures the balance between forest and grasslands, serves as a critical disperser of seeds, and is a species on which a multitude of other species depend on for survival. Advertisement With inputs from agencies Violent protests over six killings prompted an indefinite curfew and internet shutdown. COCOMI has demanded military action and AFSPA withdrawal within 24 hours, while the Kuki-Zo community delayed funerals of 10 youths killed in Jiribam, awaiting post-mortem reports read more Violence erupted in the restive state of Manipur following the discovery of 6 dead bodies. PTI Manipur remains on high alert after violent protests erupted following the discovery of six bodies, including women and children, allegedly abducted and killed by militants in Jiribam district. Authorities imposed an indefinite curfew across multiple districts of Imphal Valley and suspended internet services in seven districts to curb the unrest. The discovery has prompted widespread anger, leading to the deployment of army and Assam Rifles personnel to restore order. The protests, which began Saturday (November 16), saw demonstrators ransack the homes of three state ministers, six legislators, and other political figures, including BJP MLA R.K. Imo, the son-in-law of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. Advertisement Security forces used tear gas to disperse crowds as tensions escalated. Bodies found following gunfight in Jiribam The violence was triggered by the disappearance of six individuals, three women and three children, from a relief camp in Jiribam after a gunfight between militants and security forces. The bodies were discovered in two separate locations. Three, including those of a woman and two children, were found near the confluence of the Jiri and Barak rivers. The remaining three bodies were recovered on Saturday. The grim discovery sparked outrage across the state, with protesters demanding accountability and targeting the homes of local politicians. Roads in Imphal were littered with debris on Sunday, reflecting the extent of the unrest. Curfew and internet suspension imposed In response to the escalating violence, authorities imposed a curfew in Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, Thoubal, and Kakching districts. Internet services were also suspended in seven districts, including Imphal East and West, to prevent the spread of inflammatory content and maintain law and order. The Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) issued an ultimatum, demanding military action against those responsible for the deaths within 24 hours. The group also renewed calls for the repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), reimposed in several districts earlier this month. Tensions rise over Kuki-Zo community deaths Separately, tensions remain high within the Kuki-Zo community following the deaths of 10 youths in an alleged gunfight with the CRPF in Jiribam district. The Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF), a leading organisation representing the community, announced it would delay the funeral of the victims until post-mortem reports are provided. We cannot touch the bodies without the post-mortem documents. Tampering with them could lead to legal issues, ITLF spokesperson Ginza Vualzong said Sunday. An emergency meeting of the ITLF has been convened to decide the communitys next steps regarding the funeral. The delay adds to the growing tension in a state already grappling with unrest and violence. Advertisement With inputs from agencies MBABANE Despite ongoing issues with medication quality in public health facilities, a well-known local company is planning to manufacture drugs in Eswatini. The aspiring manufacturer is Avapharm, a partnership between Swazipharm and Indias Mylan Laboratories, designed to set-up drug production in the country. The joint venture (JV) aims to start by producing HIV/AIDS treatment drugs. The Ministry of Health has committed to purchasing all necessary drugs from this partnership through a signed agreement. However, an emergency clause allows government to source from alternative suppliers in the event of a shortage. Swazipharm and Mylan Laboratories are obliged to ensure Avapharm complies with World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines for pharmaceutical manufacturing. According to WHO, production encompasses operations from material reception to finished product packaging. Manufacturing WHOs good manufacturing practice (GMP) establishes a quality management framework to ensure products meet requisite standards for their intended use. GMP minimises risks like cross-contamination and mislabelling, emphasising patient safety and quality assurance through risk assessment. Investigations by Times Sunday reveal that the Ministry of Health granted Avapharm a contract to manufacture essential drugs for the countrys health system. The agreement involves Swazipharm partnering with Mylan to create Avapharm, responsible for drug production and distribution within Eswatini. Mylan, whose business began with the acquisition of Matrix Laboratories in India, in 2007, entered a partnership with Swazipharm in 2016. The agreement was signed by representatives from Swazipharm, government, Mylan and the Royal Science and Technology Park (RSTP), including notable figures like Dr Simon Zwane and Prashant Deshpande. Although the manufacturing plant is yet to be established, Avapharm has been supplying government with antiretroviral drugs. As a major investment, government has granted several incentives, such as value added tax (VAT) and import duty exemptions. Agreement Principal Secretary Khanya Mabuza confirmed the contract awarded to the Swazipharm and Mylan partnership, stating that despite delays, the contract remains valid. Government continues to explore manufacturing partnerships and is reviewing the Avapharm agreement. A regulatory department within the Ministry of Health has been set- up to oversee drug manufacturing operations, with the Medicines Regulatory Unit (MRU) handling regulatory functions. Yet, challenges remain in implementing and overseeing the project. An associate of Avapharm refrained from commenting on the companys progress, directing enquiries to their Lawyer, Zweli Jele, who did not respond to questionnaires by this publication at the time of going to print. Challenges The partnership agreement grants Mylan the role of providing valuable technology and expertise, while Swazipharm funds and constructs the manufacturing facility. Government provides land for the facility aimed at producing HIV/AIDS-related drugs. Products are to be priced according to international benchmarks from organisations like Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) and Management Sciences for Health (MSH). Minister of Health Mduduzi Matsebula underscored the supplier base challenges in a performance report, advocating for an expanded supplier network to mitigate reliability issues. He noted the need for procurement law amendments to address supplier prepayment demands. While hurdles persist, the governments efforts to establish domestic drug manufacturing mark a significant move towards addressing the health sector crisis, but certain observers are not sure whether the JV will have essential capacity to produce the quality drugs to meet WHO standards. However, it may be said in some quarters that the partnership with Mylan and Swazipharm is vital for ensuring a stable medication supply in Eswatini. This is despite the fact that Swazipharm has faced problems with government-supplied drugs, experiencing several recalls. The Times Sunday previously reported that Swazipharm Wholesalers was among those whose drugs were recalled due to issues like labelling non-compliance, even though no harm was reported from these products. Defects Inspections revealed drug units with concerning defects like dark spots, leading to recalls. This may change because of the JV, which involves a giant in drug manufacturing from India, one player in the pharmaceutical industry opined. Secondly, a source said it will be Avapharm, a different company, not Swazipharm that will be manufacturing and distributing the medical drugs. But, the mother company forming the JV is in the picture because it is the largest player in drug procurement. The information on drug recalls was outlined in a report presented to Parliament, highlighting the ongoing need for stringent oversights in drug manufacturing and supply. Swazipharm has encountered numerous issues with the drugs supplied to government. Reports from last year indicated that a company supplied medical drugs for public use, which the Ministry of Health later recalled. Drugs shortage The Times SUNDAY previously disclosed that one of these companies is Swazipharm Wholesalers (Pty) Ltd, a long-time supplier of drugs in the country. Amid the nationwide medical drugs shortage, it emerged that Swazipharms drugs were recalled three times this year. The Ministry of Health recalled the drugs for varied reasons, but it can be disclosed that they removed them from shelves to prevent dispensing to the public. Other companies whose drugs were recalled include IT Solutions and Artemis. Government collectively ordered 59 514 units of drugs from these companies. However, by the time of the recall notice, only 17 513 units were available. Clarity This information is documented in the Ministry of Healths report submitted to Parliament. Matsanjeni South Member of Parliament (MP) Sabelo Ndlangamandla moved a private motion for clarity regarding the recalled drugs, seconded by Somntongo MP Sandile Nxumalo. The report was delivered to Parliament by the Minister of Health, Matsebula. Swazipharm is among the suppliers summoned by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), a parliamentary body that ensures accountability for public finance expenditure. According to the PAC report, the recalled drugs were classified as class three, indicating they were unlikely to cause any adverse health reaction, but violated regulatory agency labelling or manufacturing laws. There is no recorded harm to our clients, the report stated. The ministry noted that the MRU relies on reports from Electronic Patient Record (EPR) and health facilities for any symptoms or adverse reactions resulting from medication consumption. Patients who consumed these medications were advised that the risk to future well-being is unknown, as no specific research was conducted in other countries about the effects of similar recalled products. The report states that the recalled drugs had dark and black spots. Our research shows that Mylans business operations started in 2007, in India, beginning with the strategic acquisition of Matrix Laboratories Limited. This acquisition transformed Mylan overnight into one of the worlds largest manufacturers of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API). Implementation Mabuza highlighted that while the contract was signed several years ago, its validity and implementation are still under review, emphasising that despite delays, the contract has not been terminated. In response to enquiries regarding the future of drug manufacturing in Eswatini, PS Mabuza stated that government will continue to explore partnerships with manufacturers and review the agreement with Avapharm. He assured that progress has been made in securing a drug manufacturer within the country and that a regulatory department within the Ministry of Health has been established to oversee these operations. Currently, the MRU of the Ministry of Health handles basic regulatory functions related to medical products. However, questions remain regarding the implementation of the drug manufacturing project and its ensuing oversight. In another development, Mylan, according to the agreement, contributes valuable technology, intellectual property and expertise, including manufacturing processes, technological specifications and design for the establishment and operation of drug production facilities. In return, government agreed to provide land for constructing a manufacturing and packaging facility dedicated to producing HIV/AIDS-related products. Swazipharm is responsible for financing the entire construction and commissioning of the facility, while Mylan will provide technical support and facilitate skill development, training and regulatory compliance. Additionally, the agreement states that the drugs produced will adhere to international price benchmarks, such as those set by the CHAI and the MSH. Dwindling In his introduction to the first-quarter performance report for the 2024/25 financial year, Minister of Health Matsebula highlighted the dwindling supplier base and significant challenges faced by the ministry. He stated that many current suppliers are unreliable, failing to meet delivery timelines and often communicating delays at the last minute. Matsebula stressed the need to broaden the supplier base to include manufacturers and wholesalers closer to Eswatini, to alleviate these problems. We need to amend procurement laws to address supplier issues, the minister stated. Currently, suppliers demand deposits before processing orders, but our procurement laws only permit payments post-delivery. We must adjust these laws to resolve the ongoing drug shortage crisis. Matsebula also indicated that new suppliers, both local and international, will be added to enhance the supply chains reliability. These changes will allow government to negotiate better prices and access higher-quality products. While challenges remain, including concerns over procurement practices and regulatory oversight, the governments efforts to establish a domestic drug manufacturing industry represent a significant move toward addressing the countrys growing health sector crisis. Therefore, there are players in the health industry who believe that the partnership with Mylan Laboratories and Swazipharm could play a vital role in ensuring a more stable and sustainable supply of essential medications for Eswatinis population. Others want to comment after they haveseen the manufacturing plant taking shape and the drugs being endorsed by WHO and the Ministry of Health. The pageantry and spectacle of celebrations have a certain allure that draws you intheir uniqueness lies in the traditions that shape them, offering a window into cultures and histories. The Kandy Esala Perahera, also known as the Festival of the Tooth, is one of Sri Lankas most cherished traditions, steeped in history that dates back to the third century BC. Every year, during the months of July and August, this festival unfolds under the light of the full moon on Esala Poya, a day that commemorates significant events in Buddhism. What began as a humble ritual to implore the gods for rainfall has transformed over the centuries into a breathtaking cultural spectacle that harmoniously blends sacred reverence with jubilant celebration. Advertisement At the heart of the Perahera is the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha, housed in the revered Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy. The grand procession pays tribute to this relic as it winds through the city, enchanting all who witness its splendour. This tradition was revived during the reign of King Rajasinha of Kandy, with months of meticulous preparation leading to a stunning 15-day celebration that showcases the talents of over 1,500 performers from diverse backgrounds. As the procession unfolds, the roads come alive with dazzling traditional dances, whip crackers, acrobatic performers, and drummers. Up to 100 elephants and tuskers parade through the streets, led by the richly embellished tusker carrying the Sacred Tooth Relic, followed closely by the Diyawadana Nilame, the relics lay custodian. While the grand finalea breathtaking spectacle of elephants, dancers, and lightscaptivates the audience, its the stories behind the scenes that add depth to the celebration, transforming the festival into a profound cultural experience. Before I embarked on my journey to Kandy and its surrounding villages, my first stop was a dance academy in Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, near Colombo. As I watched their graceful movements, I was explained the deep roots of Kandyan dance. Vidyapathi, a revered Kathakali actor and dancer, is an icon in Kandyan music and dance, known for his diverse body of workfrom traditional choreographies and full-length ballets with linear plots to modern dance pieces and thematic ballets. The fluidity and precision of the movements were an exemplification of his influence, and I found myself mesmerised by the rich storytelling embedded within the art. The family of performers demonstrated the fundamental styles of Kandyan danceUda Rata Natum from the central highlands and Pahatha Rata Natum from the southern plains. A week later, amidst the crowds at the Kandy Esala Perahera, I watched the Kandyan dancers perform those same elegant moves as if the essence of the dance had followed me from the academy to the festival. Advertisement In the quiet town of Welligalla, near Kandy, my first stop was a factory that has been stitching elephant costumes for the Kandy Esala Perahera for over a decade. Each elaborate costume takes up to two months to complete and is made from the finest materials, including shimmering silver and gold needlework imported from India and Sri Lankan cotton known as Amu Redi. The costumes consist of three layerscotton, sponge, and velvetmeticulously embellished with embroidery. Rajapakse further added, A single costume, made of seven pieces, takes three weeks to complete, with designs inspired by the artwork at the Sri Dalada Maligawa, featuring devotees, peacocks, and floral patterns, with the lotus symbolising purity. Advertisement Each elephant costume is an impressive design feat, weighing 35 to 50 kilograms and using nearly a million thread reels. It was said that they create sets of three matching costumes, with three more in the same pattern. The lotus design, symbolising purity and resilience, features prominently, embodying beauty emerging from adversity. It was shared that the Nil Manel, or the water lily, and other floral patterns carry deep Buddhist meanings, representing life in its entirety. Some of these flower designs, like the ones found in the elephants costumes, depict the concept of Sansar, the cycle of life, death, and reincarnation. According to Buddhist teachings, one must attain Nirvanaenlightenmentto break free from this eternal cycle. Also, At the Kataragama Devale, peacock impressions are prominently featured, reflecting the Deitys connection to this majestic bird. There are five such Peraheras, each with its own distinct design, making each procession a unique visual and spiritual journey. Advertisement As I wandered through the factory, threads of silver, gold, pink, red, and many other colours hung from the weaving loom, and the hum of off-white machines filled the air. I watched as Janaka, Nimisha, and Iresha, laboured over the delicate details, focused on perfecting every element. At that moment, I didnt fully grasp the grandeur of what they were crafting. But later that week, when I stood in awe watching the majestic elephants parade through the streets, draped in those magnificent garments, it hit me. The costumes were breathtaking, as if the elephants themselves were adorned in bridal finery, shimmering and regaleach one a moving piece of art. Advertisement After leaving the factory, I journeyed through Sri Lankas lush, green countryside for about 30 minutes before arriving at Kuragala, a village renowned for its traditional musical instruments. The winding road of Palkumbura led us into a small community where only fifteen of the fifty families are skilled in making these instruments, each accredited by the Ministry of Traditional Industries and Small Business Development. I followed a steep, narrow path that led to Jaya Pals homea modest, one-story cottage nestled among avocado trees. Jay Pals family specialises in drum-making, a craft passed down through generations. The rhythmic sound of their work seemed to echo from the small workshop, where their hands shaped the heartbeats of the festival. As Jaya Pal and I set off deeper into the village along a winding path, the actual workshop revealed itself after a short walk. Nestled among coconut, banana, and palm trees, the modest structure stood humbly beneath a thatched roof. Inside, Jaya Pal was joined by two other villagers, working side by side, carving drums from natural tree blocks. The atmosphere resonated with the sounds of chisels and hammers as they shaped the traditional Kandyan drumknown as the Geta Beraya or Udarata Beraya in Sinhalese. Known as a hill country drum, the Geta Beraya boasts a distinctive barrel-like shape. I watched intently as the workers meticulously smoothed the surfaces of jackfruit wood (Kos) using a handcrafted drum shaper. Jaya Pal shared, These drums can also be crafted from Kohomba (Neem) and Milla wood, each material contributing its unique character to the final product. In the workshop, I also noticed a rotating flange assembler delicately balanced on a double-edged wooden block, supported on one side by a wooden wheel cart. The drum-making process was intricate, involving locally made flange nailers, centre hole and plate hole machines, circle cutting and grooving machines, as well as tie rod holes, pinhole machines, and cable hole makers. Jaya Pal explained, The Geta Beraya is a double-headed drum, measuring exactly 26.3 inches in length with a maximum circumference of 33.46 inches at its centre. With a glint of pride in his eyes, he guided me through the assembly process, demonstrating the care and craftsmanship that goes into creating each drum, turning raw materials into instruments of rhythm and tradition. To create distinctive sounds, Jaya Pal uses cow and goat skin on the drum heads. With the drum suspended from his waist, he demonstrated fluidly precise playing. I noticed how the Kandyan drumming style differs from Indian classical music, featuring periodic tempo changes and unpredictable rhythms that ebb and flow in mesmerising bursts. Later that week, during the Kandy Esala Perahera procession, I saw three types of drums accompanying dancers in traditional attirewhite headpieces, breastplates, large waistbands, and flowing sarongs. The musicians celebrated musical notes with synchronised head shakes, sending their turbans flying. The drummers moved in near-telepathic coordination, creating an electric atmosphere that entranced me with the harmonious fusion of music and movementan essence of Kandyan culture. On one of the days leading up to the Kandy Esala Perahera, I also visited the workshops in the nearby village of Pilimathalawa to understand the craft of temple brass pieces. Brassware plays a crucial role in Sri Lankan temple rituals, much like its significance in India. Valued for its gold-like appearance, brass has been a favoured material for decorative purposes for centuries. Brass is often chosen for musical instruments and temple accessories due to its durability, low melting point, and excellent thermal conductivity. In their workshops, two brothers skillfully transform brass into musical instruments, utilising long, thin tubes that serve as acoustic resonators. Due to the metals remarkable malleability and acoustic properties, these tubes are often folded or coiled, allowing for compact designs that produce rich sounds. The brothers collaborate across two workshops, crafting a diverse array of brass instruments. Brassware can be found in numerous temples, including the revered Kandy Tooth Relic Temple. Exploring these behind-the-scenes elements made the festival even more meaningful. It wasnt just a spectacle to observeit became a story I was part of, one that left me with lifelong lessons and a deeper appreciation for the cultural fabric that weaves this celebration together. With more than a decade of writing experience and a passion for exploring the world, the author is a travel journalist with a knack for captivating storytelling. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. Today, as the Chinese economy is losing steam, its real estate is in a mess, and the BRI is faltering, Beijing is in a desperate situation, with many China watchers, including Bertil Lintner, hinting at the end of the Chinese century read more With the BRI, touted by Xi Jinping as the project of the century, the Chinese President believed he would lay the foundation of the Chinese world order, marking the end of Pax Americana. Image: REUTERS When JRR Tolkien was asked how he wrote his fantasy novel, The Lord of the Rings, which took 12 years to complete, he responded saying he started with a map and made the story fit. Chinese President Xi Jinping, too, would have made a similar claim when he inaugurated the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) during his visit to Kazakhstan in 2013. He saw the BRI as a bigger and grander version of Americas Marshall Plan, which helped rebuild Europe after World War II. Advertisement With the BRI, touted by Xi as the project of the century, as it sought to link two-thirds of the global population, the Chinese President believed he would lay the foundation of the Chinese world order, marking the end of Pax Americana. A decade later, Xis BRI dream seems to have gone sour. Far from ushering in an era of global prosperity flowing out of the barrel of a Chinese gun, one has seen nations faltering economically after joining the Chinese club. It took a decade for the world to realise that the BRI, instead of being an aid and development programme, was a loan scheme with hidden, exorbitant charges. Chinas BRI initiative has put countries like Sri Lanka, Laos, and Pakistan on the path of economic disaster. The case study of Sri Lanka is apt to understand the BRI saga. The island nation, after all, is the only Indian Ocean country so far to hand over an important asset after failing to repay Chinese loans. Interestingly, Sri Lanka, which was among the earliest supporters of the BRI, has been one of the first victims of the BRI debt trap too: Colombo has been forced to cede a strategic foothold to China at Hambantota, a port on the southern coast of Sri Lanka that China constructed under the BRI scheme. The Hambantota port failed to generate any substantial revenue. No wonder Sri Lanka defaulted on the loan, and in 2017, the then Prime Minister, Ranil Wickremesinghe, had to visit Beijing to resolve the issue. The visit led to the formation of the Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG), in which China Merchant Ports, a Chinese-controlled company, bought an 85 per cent stake. This Hong Kong-based firm was awarded the right to operate and develop the port for 99 years. Thus, Beijing, through a private proxy, gained control over the Hambantota port till 2116 at least. Advertisement The Sri Lankan government has repeatedly tried to assure, especially the Indian side, about the Hambantota deal being solely for commercial use and that no Chinese naval vessel will be permitted to use it as a base. However, as Australian defence expert David Brewster believes, Chinas influence will one day reach a point where the Sri Lankan government simply cannot say no. As the true, predatory nature of the BRI is becoming obvious, two broad trends have emerged: Of countries either refusing to hop on to the BRI bandwagon or those who had joined it with much fanfare lining up to leave the grouping altogether. As recently as last week, Brazil became the second BRICS country, after India, to decide against joining the BRI. Earlier in December 2023, Italy, the only G7 country to have signed for BRI, also withdrew from Chinas ambitious infrastructure initiative. Many African and Latin American nations are already up in arms against the growing debt-trap scenarios within their respective territories. Advertisement One major reason for the BRI faltering so badly is that China itselfthe very financial fountainhead of the projectis amidst an unprecedented economic crisis. Chinas real estate is in serious trouble. American journalist Linette Lopez exposed the rot in the real estate sector when he wrote for Business Insider (October 15, 2023), saying: China has a population of 1.4 billion, but it has built housing for a population of 3 billion, according to expert estimates. Many of the mega-developments became empty monuments of Beijings insatiable desire for growth. In Shenyang, farmers have taken over a development of empty mansions for cattle grazing. Advertisement Author Bertil Lintner, in his recent book, The End of the Chinese Century?, called the BRI a recipe for financial disaster". He writes, most of the countries that are supposed to benefit from the BRI schemes are not in a position to repay the loans they have been compelled to take from those banks, which has led to what is termed a debt trap situation. China has bartered unpaid loans for equityas has been the case in Sri Lanka and Laos, for instanceand thus gained considerable economic and, therefore, also political influence in those countries. But loans that cannot be repaid mean billions of dollars have been flowing out of China. Much of that money is not coming back, and whatever equity the Chinese government has gained in exchange for non-performing loans cannot compensate for the losses in terms of hard currency. Advertisement A major weakness in the actual implementation of Xis BRI, Lintner writes, is that there is no central governmental body that oversees the projects, and it is not clear which ministry or ministries are responsible for them. He quotes Yuen Yuen Ang, a professor of political science at the Centre for Chinese Studies at Michigan University, as saying that the BRI is looking frenzied and chaotic because it is typically Chinese where the central government often issues broad directives and expects lower-ranking officials to figure out how to fulfil them. In the BRI, Yuen writes, Everyone pitches in with frenzied enthusiasm and little coordination Top officials still havent defined what constitutes a BRI project or who qualifies as a participant in the initiative. As a result, every investment project, whether public or private, profit-making or money-losing, honest or dishonest, claims to be part of the bandwagon. Today, as the Chinese economy is losing steam, its real estate is in a mess, and the BRI, sometimes referred to as the New Silk Road, is faltering, Beijing is in a desperate situation, with many China watchers, including Bertil Lintner, hinting at the end of the Chinese century. The problem is intrinsically rooted in the very nature of communist ethos, governance, and economy. As Xiang Songzou, a professor of economics at the Peoples University in Beijing and erstwhile deputy director of the Peoples Bank of China, stated in his 2019 article in AsiaNews: Basically Chinas economy is all built on speculation, and everything is over-leveraged. As James Palmer puts it quite succinctly, Nobody knows anything about China: Including the Chinese government. Dikotter explains this in China after Mao: The Rise of a Superpower: Every piece of information is unreliable, partial, or distorted. We do not know the true size of the economy, since no local government will report accurate numbers, and we do not know the extent of bad loans, since the banks conceal these. Every good researcher has the Socratic paradox in mind: I know what I dont know. But where China is concerned, we dont even know what we dont know. China has become a victim of its own hype, and its pet project, the BRI, is a victim of a myth. A myth that an ancient route, called the Silk Road, traversed from China to Europe, carrying a vast amount of goods for trade and commerce. Xi, in his endeavour to come up with an alternative to Pax Americana, invoked the ancient Silk Road to recreate a modern version of it. But then the ancient Silk Road was a figment of imagination. There was no such road connecting China with Europe. An idea born out of myth is often doomed to end up being a myth too. Thats the destiny of the BRIa project born out of a map is doomed to remain on the map. And thats good news for the democratic world, especially India. (This is Part 2 of the China: Myth Vs Reality series. The next article will talk about the myth of the Silk Road, used by Xi Jinping to promote the dubious Belt and Road Initiative. Read the previous part here.) Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. The causes for the annual pollution crisis require the central government to draw up an implementable plan, months in advance, with the participation of the state governments of Delhi, UP, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab, and of proven experts in this area read more The worlds fifth largest economy, soon to become the third largest, has a capital city, which is the most polluted capital city in the world. Do you see a tragic contradiction in this juxtaposition? I dont. I dont because by now we will become the third-largest global economy due to our sheer geographical and population size, our survival instincts, and our innate entrepreneurial energy. Where we are poised now, lurching along over decades, this promotion in economic ranking will take place by default. It is on autopilot. But when desegregated, what does it mean for the ordinary person who, for several months, year after year, struggles to breathe in our country? Advertisement This is a generic question, equally applicable to many other unacceptable inequities that form the underbelly of our great hoarding: INDIA: FIFTH LARGEST ECONOMY OF THE WORLD. There is a fatal difference between the quantum of collective output and the quality of per capita life. So, for instance, I was neither amused nor surprised when, in a leading newspaper, I recently saw a photograph of mechanized road sweepers and mobile water sprinklers majestically moving down Kartavya Path, earlier called Raj Path. On both sides of this royally wide boulevard are the extensive India Gate lawns, located at the heart of the underpopulated green oasis of Lutyens Delhi, where colonial bungalows gaze serenely at individual lawns of acres of carpeted grass, and a special municipal body, New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), is available 24/7 to take care of the rich and the powerful who have the good fortune to reside here. Among these are also those who decide what to do to prevent other loyal citizens just outside this periphery of privilege from gasping for breath every year due to pollution. But this is cliched rhetoric, a jarring left-liberal impediment to the unbounded optimism confidently exuded by the government day in and day out. Yes, extreme inequality is a fact that underpins our impressively growing GDP figures. We all know that, so what is the point in repeating it and spoiling our image abroad? However, there are some things that are now nearing the point of being a threat to life due to criminal negligence by those empowered to preserve the lives of citizens who have elected them. The annual occurrence of the asphyxiating pollution phenomena in large parts of North India is a good example of this, and I do not make my accusation lightly. Many things canand havebeen forgiven, forgotten, or taken for granted by now in our Republics evolution. But blatant insensitivity, unforgivable incompetence, and internecine political battles cannot, especially when on a predictably nightmarish basis they occur every year and send millions to hospitals, some to their graves, and leave a permanent mark of disability on the health of those who survive. Advertisement In Delhi, since 14 November, AQI has crossed 500, threatening the lives of senior citizens, stunting those of the young, leaving patients of asthma and other lung ailments gasping and clutching at inhalers or supplementary oxygen, and generally impacting the health of millions. What makes me so angry is that this is not a problem that is insurmountable or inevitable. Every year, at this time, politicians express deep concern and promise citizens that steps will be taken to ensure it does not happen again. But ultimately, all that really happens is that the NDA government at the centre blames the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in power in Delhi and in Punjab, and vice versa. No enduring, holistic, or institutional steps are taken as promised, and nothing substantial or effective is done until this years pollution is already upon us. Advertisement The causes for this annual crisis require the central government to draw up an implementable plan, months in advance, with the participation of the state governments of Delhi, UP, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab, and of proven experts in this area, along with requisite funding and the courage to experiment with new technologies, including cloud seeding, so that the perennial issues of dust pollution, toxic vehicular emissions, industrial pollutants, and parali burning in neighbouring states, especially in Punjab, can be handled collectively and efficaciously. However, such is the temptation of scoring brownie points against rival governments of states and the centre, and so great the myopia of blame-game politics, that nothing ever really gets done as a lasting solution. Advertisement So, we are back to the same choking square one once again this year. Public Interest Litigations (PILs) are filed every year; every year, the Supreme Court comes down heavily against this callousness. But to no avail. We may proudly be preparing to send a human being to the moon, but if we see the haze of smog and toxic air hanging like a shroud over Delhi now, we have reason to wonder what we could do to the moon. The rich somehow survive with air purifiers in every room; the poor have little option but to make their meals on wood fires; the farmers who burn paddy waste can be fined but will continue to do so if a viable alternative is not provided to them; dust will swirl if we dont build good roads outside the VIP areas or prevent unauthorised concrete to smother whatever greenery is left; and vehicular pollution will continue until we seriously upgrade our public transport system. Advertisement Meanwhile, dear citizens, try once more to survive this year, and wait for it to repeat itself next year, even as you gasp your way to the polling booths whenever elections take place. The author is a former diplomat, an author and a politician. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. That the Chinese have felt the need to hire private security is perplexing when the Pakistan army has granted itself a huge rise in the budget ostensibly to take care of their security read more There appears to be some rusting in a certain iron brother relationship. A spat of no common order had erupted recently when the Chinese ambassador to Pakistan warned the authorities that their patience was at an end with regard to attacks on Chinese workers in the country. The Foreign Office spokesperson, equally unusually, took umbrage instead of quietly accepting the (justified) criticism, all of which raised eyebrows across the circles that matter in both countries. Now it seems matters may have been smoothed out. Just a day ago, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian, while reiterating the all-weather friendship motif, also stated, We (China) are firm in our commitment to protecting the safety and security of Chinese nationals.. rather mysteriously also stating, Attempts to undermine the mutual trust and cooperation between the two countries will not succeed. There was also a distinct threat, that terrorists would pay the price. The poor Baloch better look out. Advertisement The Chinese are unusually annoyed All of this needs some explanation. There is no doubt at all that Beijing has every right to get completely annoyed. Ambassador Jiang Zaidong observes that Top priority should be the security of Chinese personnel because they come to Pakistan to participate in the countrys development, adding that the Chinese dont deserve this kind of sacrifice. There have been two serious attacks in a months time, with not just the attack on the bus at the Jinnah airport just before the meeting of the SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organisation) but also an unusual attack by a security guard in Karachi. That was apparently the result of an altercation between a group of Chinese nationals and the security. Anyway, some 16 rounds were fired, which indicates quite a mess. The Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, has assured the ambassador that he was personally managing the situation. It may be noted that relations on the ground between the two sides have had problems, given the huge cultural differences. Pakistanis often complain of marked racism among the Chinese and a contempt for locals. A letter from the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG), Syed Asad Raza, to the chairman of the All Pakistan Security Agencies Association (APSA) is revealing. It shows the Chinese have taken to hiring their own security people rather than relying on the Pakistanis. These are locals, and as the DIG says, their training is not of the highest order, and their knowledge of foreigners is minimal. But that the Chinese even feel the need to hire private security is perplexing. In a largely unnoticed move, the Pakistan army has granted itself a huge rise in the budget ostensibly to take care of their security. Spike in Attacks There is no doubt that the numbers of attacks have risen recently. From about an attack a year earlier, 3 in 2021, and then a jump to 4 attacks in March 2024, is enough to cause serious concern. But heres the curious part. In early October this year, the Economic Coordination Committee of the Cabinet sanctioned Rs 35 of Rs 45 billion to the army in a supplementary grant. Thats rather a lot. This is the second such grant, after another Rs 60 billion for Operation Azm-e-Istehkam, all of which is above the Rs 2.127 trillion defence budget. As yet unclear is another Rs 45 billion for approved projects for the army. The body also approved Rs 16 billion for the Special Security Division South and another Rs 8 billion for a similar division in the south, both of which are responsible for protecting the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in southern regions. All this means a near doubling of the defence budget, at a time when the International Monetary Fund is rapping Islamabad on the knuckles for a current account deficit and still reviewing its performance. Advertisement Pakistan Army gets a financial boost There is one possible clue to both the sudden bounty in Pakistan army coffers and the relatively softer position of China towards Pakistani issues. Beijing has been insisting for some time that it bring its own security agencies into the country, including supporting intelligence. Towards this, it seems it has proposed a joint company for CPEC Phase 2 and a security agreement to firm this up. Pakistan has so far resisted this, given that this would mean a definite erosion of its sovereignty. No country likes other peoples intelligence roaming freely around the country. Now it is possible that this has been done, which may align with the sudden affluence apparent in the budget. True, the Pakistan army has multiple sources of income, some from its business empire inside the country and outside it. Advertisement Ayesha Jehangir estimates its empire at about $38 billion, not counting the extensive private empires of its senior officers, like former chief Gen. Bajwa, whose family became billionaires in just six years. Reports like this also link the military generals to CPEC ventures, which means they are committed to them lock, stock, and barrel. A little loss of sovereignty may not bother them. Or else they are so compromised they have little choice. End result Either way, Delhi needs to look out. First, there are going to be more Chinese security officials within Pakistan, who know well how to use the tech that they have given to the Pakistanis. That includes Smart City projects that include hundreds of cameras placed in major cities. Karachi has yet to take off, which is probably why the attacks are occurring there in the first place. Second, they would dig into the Pakistan armys own databases as well as the National Identity data. That is quite something. Second is a more serious issue. Advertisement The huge spike in the defence budget is clearly not just for the defence of Chinese nationals or for guarding the border. This needs more clarity, an impossible task given the opaque nature of Pakistans finances. Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund needs to ask some pointed questions. Beijing has every right to demand more security, but it doesnt really know the kind of army it is dealing with. Meanwhile, for those who think that the attacks have dented CPEC, think again. Coming on line are more projects like the Karachi Coastal Comprehensive Zone, a huge development comprising some 930 hectares, of which 630 are reclaimed. Thats just next to our borders. This is a mega project that may, in the end, be larger than even Gwadar. Besides, no one less than President Xi Jinping broke protocol to congratulate Shahbaz Sharif in March when he became Prime Minister. Officials have since been trooping into the country, indicating that Beijing still has its hand on the tiller. The bilateral boat may be tilting a good deal, but the captain is still very much on the job. Advertisement The writer is a Distinguished Fellow at the Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies, New Delhi. She tweets @kartha_tara. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. Our cooperation is very strong and there are many new possibilities as well for us to take our cooperation forward, PM Modi said read more Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President of Nigeria Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the G20 summit. Image courtesy X Prime Minister Narendra Modis landmark visit to Nigeria, the first by an Indian leader in 17 years, saw several crucial developments. PM Modi, the leader of the worlds largest democracy, and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, helming Africas most populous nation, met in Abuja on Sunday (November 17). The two discussed a range of issues, from security and trade to global governance and economic cooperation. Here are five key takeaways from the meeting: 1. Strengthening security ties Advertisement PM Modi and President Tinubu pledged to bolster collaboration on maritime security, counterterrorism, and intelligence sharing, addressing shared concerns about piracy and organised crime in the Gulf of Guinea and the Indian Ocean. A joint statement highlighted the growing threats in these regions and the need for coordinated action to safeguard trade routes. Our cooperation is very strong and there are many new possibilities as well for us to take our cooperation forward, PM Modi said. 2. Focus on economic cooperation Economic ties featured prominently, with discussions on finalising agreements on investment promotion, double taxation avoidance, and economic cooperation. Modi stressed the role of Indian companies in Nigerias economy, with over 200 firms investing $27 billion in sectors such as manufacturing and infrastructure. Tinubu, seeking to attract more investment, underscored the mutual benefits of the growing economic relationship. 3. Recognition of shared global goals Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to championing the interests of the Global South. Modi, who has positioned India as a voice for developing nations, vowed to highlight these priorities on the global stage. Tinubu echoed this sentiment, saying that Nigeria values its partnership with India and would work to broaden it. Advertisement 4. Push for UN security council reform The visit comes as both India and Nigeria renew their bids for permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council. Modi and Tinubu stressed the need for reforming global governance structures to align with the growing influence of countries from Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Nigeria, which faces diplomatic competition from South Africa for an African seat, drew attention to its credentials as a strong contender. 5. Shared honours In a gesture of recognition, Tinubu conferred the title of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, Nigerias second-highest national honour, on PM Modi. The meeting was framed as a strategic partnership between two nations with shared values of democracy and development. Modis visit, the first by an Indian prime minister in 17 years. Advertisement With inputs from agencies Muhammad Yunus said that not only the deaths in the uprising but all other violations of human rights, including alleged enforced disappearances while Hasina was in power, would be investigated. read more Bangladeshs interim leader Muhammad Yunus said that the country will seek the extradition of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from India, where she has been in exile since August. Yunus made this statement during a televised address marking his first 100 days in office, emphasising that his administration will hold Hasina and others accountable for the hundreds of deaths during the student-led uprising that ended her 15-year rule. Yunus took office on August 8, just three days after Hasina fled the country. He has pledged to investigate not only the deaths during the uprising but also other alleged human rights violations, including enforced disappearances, that occurred during Hasinas tenure. To facilitate this, Bangladesh has sought assistance from Interpol in issuing a red notice for the arrest of Hasina and her associates. Advertisement The interim governments priority is to conduct electoral reforms before holding new elections, which will pave the way for an elected government to take power. Yunus has downplayed reports of attacks on minorities, particularly Hindus since Hasinas ouster, describing them as exaggerated We will seek the return of the fallen autocrat Sheikh Hasina from India, Yunus said. I have already discussed the issue with chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court Karim Khan. While Hasina and her close associates are facing numerous criminal charges at home, the Yunus-led government is also pushing for the ICC to take up the case. Seeking Hasinas extradition could also pose a challenge for India, which has treated her as a trusted friend. Yunus said his governments most important task was to hold a new election to hand over power to an elected government, but he did not spell out any timeframe. He said his administration would first bring about reforms in various sectors including in the electoral system. He promised that once the electoral reforms are completed, a roadmap for the new election would be unveiled. Yunus has been talking to political parties including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party headed by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, Hasinas main rival, which has sought an election in two to three months. The party believes it will form the next government as Hasinas Awami League party and its allies face a political debacle following her ouster. Advertisement Yunus said the Election Commission will be reconstituted soon. But as we move forward, we need to complete a lot of work. The train will reach its final station depending on how quickly we can lay down the railway tracks, and this will happen through consensus among the political parties, he said. Yunus also downplayed as exaggerated reports of attacks on minorities, especially Hindus, many of whom complained that hard-line Islamists are becoming increasingly influential since Hasinas ouster. With inputs from agencies. The trip is part of Bidens final swing through South America before he hands the keys of the White House to Donald Trump, who becomes the United States 47th president in two months read more Joe Biden on Sunday will be the first sitting US president to visit the Amazon the vast tropical rainforest that nearly killed a predecessor, Teddy Roosevelt, after he left office. The trip is part of Bidens final swing through South America before he hands the keys of the White House to Donald Trump, who becomes the United States 47th president in two months. Biden, 81, will touch down in the biggest city in the Amazon, Manaus, on his way to Rio de Janeiro, where a two-day G20 summit is to be held. Advertisement The Amazon jungle was not a fortunate destination for the 26th US president, Roosevelt. He had a near-death experience in it when he went on a canoe expedition there in 1914, four years after his 1901-1909 stint in office. Roosevelt, a Republican known for his adventurous spirit, had teamed up with a Brazilian explorer, Candido Rondon, to chart the Rio da Duvida (the River of Doubt), a tributary in the wild center-west of Brazil, in the Amazon. The river, 760 kilometers (470 miles) long, proved a formidable foe. Several members of Roosevelts expedition died and the ex-president, aged 55 at the time, caught malaria and a leg infection, which incapacitated him in the final arduous stretch. T. R. (Teddy Roosevelt) was out of his mind toward the end; Rondon gave him up for dead several times, his great-grandson Tweed Roosevelt said in remarks noted by The New York Times in 1992. Roosevelt himself, when he was warned of the dangers by friends at the American Museum of Natural History before embarking on his trip, told them he had already lived a full life and was ready for the risk. I have had my full share, and if it is necessary for me to leave my bones in South America, I am quite ready to do so, he said, according to the Smithsonian Magazine. Advertisement In the end, the Roosevelt-Rondon expedition was saved from disaster when they came across Brazilian rubber tappers in the jungle, who helped them enough so they could make it to cargo boats, and from there back to the safety of the outside world. Roosevelt never fully recovered his health from his ordeal, though he and Rondon received acclaim for mapping the River of Doubt. The former president died in 1919 at home of a blood clot in his lungs, aged 60. In his honour, the river he navigated was renamed the Roosevelt River. US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed in a rare face-to-face meeting that humans, not AI, should dictate the US of nuclear weapons. The two leaders met on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in Peru read more US President Joe Biden and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping met on Saturday afternoon and agreed that humans, not Artificial Intelligence (AI) should dictate the use of nuclear weapons. The two leaders met on the sidelines of the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit, which is being held in Peru. This is believed to be the final face-to-face meeting between the two world leaders while Biden is still in the Oval Office. Before delivering their opening remarks at a joint press conference, Biden and Xi shook hands and exchanged cordial smiles. The meeting came against the backdrop of Republican firebrand Donald Trumps looming upcoming presidency. Advertisement The two leaders affirmed the need to maintain human control over the decision to use nuclear weapons, the White House said in a statement on Saturday. The two leaders also stressed the need to consider carefully the potential risks and develop AI technology in the military field in a prudent and responsible manner," the statement further reads. US pushes China for nuclear arms talk While it is unclear whether the statement would lead to further talks between the two nations, it marked the first-of-its-kind discussion between the two leaders over AI and nuclear weapons. Washington has been urging Beijing for months to break its longstanding resistance towards nuclear arms talks. Earlier, the two nations briefly resumed official-level talks over nuclear arms. However, those negotiations have been stalled for months with US officials expressing frustration regarding the reluctance of their Chinese counterparts. Not only this, Trumps imminent comeback to the White House also casts a black shadow over the ties between the two countries as it remains unclear how the US will be handling China under the Trump regime. During his campaign, Trump presented a hawkish approach towards China, pledging to increase tariffs to 60 per cent on Chinese imports. After his win in the 2024 race, he picked Senator Marco Rubio as the secretary of State and Republican representative Mike Waltz as national security adviser, both of whom have voiced hawkish views on China. Meanwhile, Xi congratulated Trump on his landslide victory, noting that their two countries must get along with each other in the new era, in a statement. A stable, healthy and sustainable China-US relationship is in the common interest of both countries and is in line with the expectations of the international community, the Chinese president said earlier this month. Despite all this, relations between China and the US have been on the edge recently after an FBI investigation showed that the Chinese government tried to hack into US telecommunications networks to try to steal the information of American government workers and politicians. Last month, officials mentioned that operations linked to China targeted the phone of Trump and running mate JD Vance, along with the staff of Kamala Harris. Advertisement With inputs from agencies. Brazils First Lady Janja Lula da Silva swore at billionaire Elon Musk during a G20 event on Saturday. The Tesla CEO replied to the comments and said her husband Lula Da Silva wont win the next election in Brazil read more Billionaire Elon Musk has hit back at Brazils First Lady Janja Lula da Silva after she said F**k you to him while addressing an event at the G20 summit on Saturday. While taking potshots at Janja, Musk said that her husband and Brazils current president Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva would not win the next election in the country. They will lose the next election, the Tesla CEO wrote while responding to the video in which the first lady swore at the billionaire. The remarks from Janja came while she was speaking about the need to regulate social media to rein in misinformation. Advertisement They will lose the next election Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 16, 2024 A ships horn sounded in the middle of her address. I think its Elon Musk, before adding, Im not afraid of you, f**k you, Elon Musk, Janja joked, which was followed by loud applause. The tussle between Musk and Brazil continues The billionaires social media network was suspended in Brazil for a month in 2024, failing to name a legal representative in the country and ignoring court orders to block accounts accused of spreading fake news and hate messages. During the Saturday event, Janja emphasised the need for global cooperation in regulating social networks, arguing that individual countries cant tackle the issue alone. She went on to call for US involvement in the endeavour. However, Musk, who has emerged as a strong ally to President-elect Donald Trump, will now be leading the US Department of Government Efficiency in the forthcoming government. During her remarks, the Brazilian first lady praised Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes and called him a key ally in the countrys fight against Facebook. The comment alluded to the recent tensions between Moraes and Musk, with both sides hurling insults at each other. While one South American nation distances itself from the US, another country aims to bolster its ties under the Trump administration. A contrasting scene unfolded at Mar-a-Lago, where President-elect Trump warmly welcomed Argentinas President Javier Milei. Trump praised Mileis efforts, saying, The job youve done is incredible. Make Argentina Great Again. Hes a MAGA person. Milei reciprocated, calling Trumps victory the greatest political comeback in history and insisting that the forces of heaven are on our side. Advertisement We should investigate carefully to determine whether it fits into the technical definition formulated by jurists and international bodies, the Pope said read more Pope Francis wants an investigation into whether Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. Image source: Reuters Pope Francis has called for an investigation to determine if Israels attacks in Gaza constitute genocide, according to excerpts released Sunday from an upcoming new book ahead of the pontiffs jubilee year. Its the first time that Francis has openly urged for an investigation of genocide allegations over Israels actions in the Gaza Strip. In September, he said Israels attacks in Gaza and Lebanon have been immoral and disproportionate, and that its military has gone beyond the rules of war. Advertisement The book, by Hernan Reyes Alcaide and based on interviews with the Pope, is entitled Hope never disappoints. Pilgrims towards a better world." It will be released on Tuesday ahead of the popes 2025 jubilee. Francis yearlong jubilee is expected to bring more than 30 million pilgrims to Rome to celebrate the Holy Year. According to some experts, what is happening in Gaza has the characteristics of a genocide, the pope said in excerpts published Sunday by the Italian daily La Stampa. We should investigate carefully to determine whether it fits into the technical definition formulated by jurists and international bodies, he added. Last year, Francis met separately with relatives of Israeli hostages in Gaza and Palestinians living through the war and set off a firestorm by using words that Vatican diplomats usually avoid: terrorism and, according to the Palestinians, genocide. Francis spoke at the time about the suffering of both Israelis and Palestinians after his meetings, which were arranged before the Israeli-Hamas hostage deal and a temporary halt in fighting was announced. The pontiff, who last week also met with a delegation of Israeli hostages who were released and their families pressing the campaign to bring the remaining captives home had editorial control over the upcoming book. The war started when the militant Hamas group attacked Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people and abducting 250 as hostages and taking them back to Gaza, where dozens still remain. Advertisement Israels subsequent yearlong military campaign has killed more than 43,000 people, according to Gaza health officials, whose count doesnt distinguish between civilians and fighters, though they say more than half of the dead are women and children. The Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza has triggered several legal cases at international courts in The Hague involving requests for arrest warrants as well as accusations and denials of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. In the new book, Francis also speaks about migration and the problem of integrating migrants in their host countries. Faced with this challenge, no country can be left alone and no one can think of addressing the issue in isolation through more restrictive and repressive laws, sometimes approved under the pressure of fear or in search of electoral advantages, Francis said. Advertisement On the contrary, just as we see that there is a globalization of indifference, we must respond with the globalization of charity and cooperation, he added. Francis also mentioned the still open wound of the war in Ukraine has led thousands of people to abandon their homes, especially during the first months of the conflict. MBABANE Chances of the Farmers Bank eventually opening to the public continue to be hampered. The latest development is that the Central Bank of Eswatini (CBE) has reportedly revoked the annual licence and this has put to doubt plans that the Farmers Bank will get the commercial one and finally open for business in January next year. Even though the revocation has not been gazetted yet, the reports are already being discussed in certain quarters, with some questioning the decision, while others are already pre-empting that this could have dire consequences for government and the local banking sector. The reported revocation means that there is a possibility that certain processes will follow as per the provisions of the Financial Institutions Act, 2005, which is the legal instrument that provides for regulation and supervision of financial institutions and for matters incidental hereto. Section 16 of the Act stipulates that the CBE may revoke the licence of any financial institution, if the holder fails to commence operations within a period of one year, following the grant of the licence of if they exceed the terms of his licence or fails to comply with any conditions imposed or with any measures required by the CBE. The licence, according to the legislation, may also be revoked if the holder ceases to carry on the business for which he is licensed or is in breach of any other of the provisions of the Act. It is mentioned in the Act that before revoking the licence of any financial institution, the CBE shall consult with the minister and give such institution notice of its intentions to do so, and shall afford it a reasonable opportunity to show cause why such licence should not be revoked. It is stipulated that if the CBE has revoked a licence, it shall as soon as possible publish a notice of the revocation in the gazette and in a newspaper of general circulation in the country and shall in addition cause a sufficiently large enough notice to be posted in a conspicuous place in each place of business of the financial institution. The Act also states that any decisions taken by the CBE including any refusal or revocation of a licence, shall be subject to appeal to the minister.The latest decision, the Times SUNDAY has gathered, comes after the Farmers Bank was issued with what is known as known as a notice of revocation at the end of September this year. In a letter dated September 27, 2024, the CBE wrote to the Farmers Bank investor, Alexandre Francis Asfar and this was a correspondence to an action plan the Farmers Bank had submitted. The letter was informing the Farmers Bank about a notice of revocation of the banking licence in terms of Section 16 of the Financial Institutions Act, 2005. The CBE said following a letter dated September 25, 2024, whereby it had advised the Farmers Bank on the advanced assessment and evaluation of the latters action plan, inclusive of consultations that were being undertaken, it had concluded the exercise. Following a holistic and careful consideration of the submissions, in the context of the meetings with yourself on August 13 and August 26, 2024, regrettably, the action plan is considered not to meet regulatory requirements and expectations, the CBE said in the letter, which served as a notice of revocation. The CBE cited certain aspects it claimed the Farmers Bank had not met, one of them is in relation to capital and liquidity. According to the letter, the CBE cited that there has been no clear and satisfactory plan with timelines and demonstrating capacity and desire to capitalise and provide liquidity to the bank-in organisation in compliance with relevant regulatory requirements. In terms of corporate governance and related matters, the CBE said the submitted plan has not provided any information and or timelines when the Farmers Bank will constitute a new Board and appoint competent senior management to evidence his commitment to remedy the corporate governance issues. The plan remains highly promissory in form and nature with no traceable action items on your part. This is despite the critical nature of having these structures in place to assist develop and execute any strategy and plan to operationalise the bank, reads part of the CBE letter of notice of revocation. The CBE also lamented that the Farmers Bank core banking system still requires critical areas of improvement and provision of assurance to attain full business application preparedness. Your submitted plan on this area is shallow and indicates a lack of appreciation on the nature and magnitude of specifications, resources and quality required. Farmers Bank has an open-source banking system and was advised to source a competent and convincingly experienced team of software engineers and be stringent hard done by the decision. The Farmers Bank management, it has been gathered, feels hard done by the decision as they are of the belief that they did everything to meet the requirements as contained in their action plan. The management, through its consultant, is said to have heeded to a directive that they should compile and submit an action plan to the CBE. The action, which this publication has seen, was compiled and is dated August 13 to August 31, 2004. The sources have confided that the ongoing behind-the-scenes engagements could lead to what is known as abatement and a possible withdrawal of the revocation. In order to manage the situation, the Farmers Bank should be allowed to appeal and the minister of Finance should set up a tribunal, made up of three people to look into the matter. Otherwise if the revocation is final, chances are high that the Farmers Bank will take the legal route, since they have invested a lot of money in the country, said one of the sources. When sought for comment, Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg, did not deny nor confirm the reported revocation, but said his office is currently working on the issue. It is my job as the minister of Finance to encourage banks to open in Eswatini. At the same time, it is the Central Banks job as a regulator to look into the operations of banks and ensure that everything is done in a proper manner. As the Central Bank has its own rulebook and plays by the rules, I have to do my job. Like I am doing for the Building Society to become a bank, I am working hard to help Farmers Bank. For that reason, I am trying to manage the situation as the minister, said Rijkenberg. Meanwhile, Investment Consultant and Farmers Bank Technical Advisor said: Our position is that we are optimistic about the situation and are doing everything we can possibly do to ensure that we address all the concerns, which were stated by the regulator based on the notice of revocation. We are cooperating with the Central Bank in terms of putting everything in place. Early this year, it was reported that an onsite inspection report that was to be compiled by CBE would determine the fate of the Farmers Bank. The commencing of operations for the Farmers Bank has for more than three years been delayed as it has been argued that this was due to that it had still not yet complied with certain procedures as per the provisions of the Financial Institutions Act, 2005. Members of Parliament (MPs) have in recent months sought answers from the Ministry of Finance on the status of the bank and what was currently being done. In a response, the ministry said the Farmers Bank remained a licenced bank under the aforementioned Act. According to the ministry, the CBE last reviewed the Farmers Banks licence in September 2023 for a one-year period. The ministry said the bank was, however, considered a bank in organisation since it has not commenced operations or opened doors to the public.Also mentioned was that the CBE meets the Farmers Bank on a monthly basis to discuss progress and that it recently conducted an on-site inspection as part of the requirements before commencing operations. The Farmers Bank is the one that has reportedly invested over E100 million in the country to focus on water and food security after being granted a licence in 2018 which was however, revoked. With its plan being to invest in agriculture, one sector which remains a major contributor to the countrys gross domestic product (GDP), many were of the belief that hosting such a bank was ideal for the Kingdom of Eswatini. In some countries in the African continent, there is what is known as agriculture banks, which have played a role in the provision of agricultural credit facilities to support all agricultural value chain activities, provide non-agricultural micro credit, savings mobilisation and capacity development. Since last year, the Farmers Bank has been running notices detailing its pricing guide. The guide includes prices for retail banking, corporate and business banking, withdrawals on automated teller machines (ATMs), payments and transfers plus card fees. Also included in the guide are penalty fees, prices for value-added services, deposits and point of sale fees among others. It was in October 2018 when the CBE issued a banking licence to Farmers Bank Pty Ltd. At the time, it was said that the licence will allow Farmers Bank to conduct banking business in the Kingdom of Eswatini as a commercial bank. Pursuant to the dictates of section 7 of the Financial Institutions Act of 2005, the licensing of this new bank has been published in the government gazette through legal notice number 180 of 2018, the letter of approval issued by CBE read in part. The granting of the licence was confirmed by the then CBE Governor, Majozi Sithole, who stated that such a decision had been taken after thorough interrogation and determination of the incoming bank and its directors. The governor mentioned that as a bank, they continue to be strongly of the view that the Eswatini economy has room to absorb more banks. At the time, the Board of Directors of the Farmers Bank said plans were underway to start operating in the country in October or early November at the latest.However, things changed in October 2020, when an announcement was made to the effect that the CBE, in exercise of the powers bestowed upon it by Section 16 of the Financial Institutions Act, 2005, had revoked the commercial banking licence issued to Farmers Bank (Pty) Ltd with immediate effect. CBE explained stated that the revocation followed a due enquiry as outlined by Section 16 of the Financial Institutions Act 2005. Thereafter, the Farmers Bank filed a notice to appeal the CBEs decision to revoke their banking license hardly 24 hours, after the banking industry regulator decided to revoke their legal powers to operate in the Kingdom of Eswatini from October 1. The CBE has since December 2018 been waiting for the Farmers Bank to fully comply with the licensing conditions, which include jealousy safeguarding the deposits taken from members, among others. The Farmers Bank is said to have invested over E120 million in the country with over E30 million used in infrastructure, systems, licence fees and other ground work costs. Its main focus will be water and food security. It directors are on record having said that they considered investing in the country because after a strong analysis, they had uncovered that there was an opportunity to empower emaSwati by reducing the volume of imports, which account for about 70 per cent of locally consumed food produce. PM Modis visit to Nigeria was billed by New Delhi as a meeting of the largest democracy in the world and the largest in Africa, natural partners as both push for a more central role in world affairs. This visit is the first by an Indian prime minister to Nigeria in 17 years. read more Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nigerias President Bola Tinubu met to renew what they called the strategic partnership between the giants of Asia and Africa on Sunday. Modi is in Nigeria on the first leg of his three-nation visit at the invitation of President Tinubu. This visit is the first by an Indian prime minister to Nigeria in 17 years. From Abuja, Modi will travel to Brazil to attend the G20 summit. His last destination will be Guyana. Advertisement New Delhi views the visit as a meeting between the worlds largest democracy and Africas largest democracy, dubbing India and South Africa as natural partners as they seek greater global influence. On his arrival in Nigeria on Sunday, Prime Minister Modi was warmly welcomed by Minister for Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, who presented him with the Key to the City of Abuja. Our cooperation is very strong and there are many new possibilities as well for us to take our cooperation forward, Modi said in preliminary remarks as talks got underway. As we just said, we have always worked together to address challenges such as terrorism, separatism, piracy and drug trafficking. Had a very productive discussion with President Tinubu. We talked about adding momentum to our strategic partnership. There is immense scope for ties to flourish even further in sectors like defence, energy, technology, trade, health, education and more. @officialABAT pic.twitter.com/2i4JuF9CkX Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2024 Nigeria on Sunday conferred its second-highest national award, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, making him the second foreign dignitary to receive the distinction. Advertisement Honoured to be conferred with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger Award by Nigeria. I accept it with great humility and dedicate it to the people of India, Modi said in his remarks after receiving the award. This was the 17th international award conferred on Modi by a country. Queen Elizabeth is the only foreign dignitary who was awarded GCON in 1969. Photos posted on Modis account showed him arriving late Saturday at Abuja airport to be welcomed by Nigerian officials and a cheering crowd from the countrys 60,000-strong Indian community. Security Council bids The visit comes amid a revived push by both India and Nigeria for permanent representation on the United Nations Security Council. The five permanent members of the top UN body the United States, Russia, China, France and Britain hold a powerful veto that they can use to protect their international interests. Advertisement In recent years, supporters of a more multipolar world have pushed for African, Asian and Latin American countries to be given more senior global roles alongside the older great powers. In his prepared remarks, Modi alluded to this drive, telling Tinubu together we will also continue to highlight at a global level the priorities of the Global South. And thanks to our joint efforts, we will achieve success as well in this, he promised. Nigerias 220-million-strong population is comfortably the largest in Africa, but in diplomatic strength it is rivalled by South Africa. If UN members bow to the pressure to give increased representation to an African country, Abuja and Pretoria could end up competing for the place. Advertisement India is the worlds most populous nation its 1.4 billion people represent a sixth of humanity and is a nuclear-armed power. It has long sought a permanent UN Security Council seat. India is also a member of the nine-strong BRICs group with Brazil, Russia, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates. Nigeria is a BRICs partner country but has not been given full membership, with some observers accusing South Africa of holding them up. Economic cooperation Aside from power politics, Modis visit will also seek to enhance economic cooperation, with a number of technical agreements to be signed. Africa has become a theatre of competition between the United States, former colonial powers from Europe, as well as Russia, Turkey and especially China. India too has made inroads, and ahead of the trip Modis office boasted that more than 200 Indian companies had invested $27 billion in Nigerian manufacturing, becoming major employers. Advertisement Nigeria is also a destination for Indian development funds, with $100 million in loans and training programmes for local workers. With inputs from agencies. Afif for years had been responsible for Hezbollahs media relations, and provided information to local and foreign journalists under the cover of anonymity read more The head of Hezbollah's media office, Mohammad Afif was killed in an Israeli strike on Beirut. Reuters A Lebanese security source said Hezbollah spokesman Mohammed Afif was killed in an Israeli strike Sunday in central Beirut that hit the Lebanese branch of the Syrian Baath party. The strike on Ras al-Nabaa killed Hezbollah media relations official Mohammed Afif, the security source said, requesting anonymity as they were not authorised to brief the media. Ali Hijazi, secretary-general of the Lebanese branch of the Baath party, confirmed the death of Hezbollah media official Afif, the official National News Agency reported. Advertisement The Israeli army declined to comment. Lebanons health ministry said the strike killed one person and wounded three others, adding that the toll was provisional and that work was ongoing to remove rubble from the site of the strike. Afif for years had been responsible for Hezbollahs media relations, and provided information to local and foreign journalists under the cover of anonymity. The NNA said the strike by enemy aircraft caused great destruction, reporting an unspecified number of people trapped under the rubble in Ras al-Nabaa, an area near the French embassy and a university. It said one of the residents of a neighbouring building had received a warning call urging evacuation but it was not taken seriously. Since the assassination in late September of longtime Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah in a huge Israeli strike, Afif had held several press conferences in Beiruts southern suburbs. In one such event last month, Afif announced that Hezbollah had launched a drone targeting the residence of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. That press conference was cut short when the Israeli army warned it would strike a building nearby. The decision is a major US policy shift and comes as Biden is about to leave office and President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to limit American support for Ukraine and end the war as soon as possible. read more In a major policy shift, US President Joe Biden has approved Ukraines use of US-supplied long-range missiles for strikes deep into Russian territory, sources familiar with the matter said told Reuters. The move by the United States two months before President-elect Donald Trump takes office on Jan. 20 follows months of requests by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to allow Ukraines military to use U.S. weapons to hit Russian military targets far from its border. Advertisement The missiles, known as Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS), are expected to target Russian and North Korean forces engaged in the defense of Ukrainian advances in Russias Kursk region, the officials stated. Ukraine plans to conduct its first long-range attacks in the coming days, the sources said, without revealing details due to operational security concerns. The weapons are likely to be used in response to North Koreas decision to send thousands of troops to Russia in support of Russian President Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine, according to one of the people, reported by AP. The first deep strikes are likely to be carried out using ATACMS rockets, which have a range of up to 190 miles (306 km), according to the sources. While some U.S. officials have expressed skepticism that allowing long-range strikes will change the wars overall trajectory, the decision could help Ukraine at a moment when Russian forces are making gains and possibly put Kyiv in a better negotiating position when and if ceasefire talks happen. It is not clear if Trump will reverse Bidens decision when he takes office. Trump has long criticized the scale of U.S. financial and military aid to Ukraine and has vowed to end the war quickly, without explaining how. Advertisement Still, some congressional Republicans have urged Biden to loosen the rules on how Ukraine can use U.S.-provided weapons. Russia has warned that it would see a move to loosen the limits on Ukraines use of U.S. weapons as a major escalation. With inputs from agencies. In his first visit to Nigeria, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was hosted by President Bola Tinubu in capital Abuja, where both spoke of a new chapter in their strategic partnerships in the areas of defense, energy, technology, trade and development. read more The leaders of Nigeria and India pledged stronger ties in maritime security and counterterrorism during a meeting on Sunday where they also agreed on more support for Global South nations. Modi arrived in the capital Abuja on Saturday night and met Tinubu at the presidential villa on Sunday where the two leaders also discussed economic development, defence, healthcare and food security, a joint statement said. With growing threats in the Gulf of Guinea and the Indian Ocean, the two countries agreed to coordinated action to safeguard maritime trade routes and combat piracy. Advertisement Modi has often touted India as the voice of the Global South, the group of countries primarily considered developing nations, including Nigeria, but which also includes China and several wealthy Persian Gulf states. Together we will also continue to highlight at the global level the priorities of the Global South and thanks to our joint efforts, we will achieve success as well in this, said Modi. Nigeria, Africas most populous nation, is seeking to woo more Indian investment and cheaper lines of credit to boost its economy and create jobs. On the sidelines of the G20 summit last year, Nigeria said it had secured nearly $14 billion of pledges from Indian investors, including Jindal Steel and Power which committed to pump $3 billion into Nigerias steel sector. There are more than 200 Indian companies operating in Nigeria. A joint statement said both leaders pledged greater collaboration in counterterrorism, maritime security and intelligence sharing to cope with growing threats in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Guinea, the area off the coast of West Africa that is one of the worlds most dangerous for piracy. Advertisement Nigeria is Indias largest trading partner in Africa with total bilateral trade between estimated at $14.9 billion in 2022. There are also at least 60,000 Indian nationals and 200 Indian companies in Nigeria, authorities say. The Nigerian leader conferred on Modi the title of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, Nigerias second-highest national honor, describing Modi as a representation of a very strong commitment to democratic values and norms. Nigeria values its excellent relationship with India and will work to broaden the same for the mutual benefits of our two friendly countries, Tinubu said. With inputs from agencies. In the survey, the only former party leader of the past five years that Badenoch managed to beat is the UKs shortest-serving Prime Minister Liz Truss read more New UK Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch faced a major setback after her first approval rating as the leader of the party turned out to be worse than those recorded by former British PM Rishi Sunak and Boris Johnson at the start of their reigns. According to the latest Opinium poll for the Observer, the new Tory leaders net approval rating sits at 5 per cent. The net approval rating records the difference between those who approve or disapprove of the job she is doing. In the survey, the only former party leader of the past five years that she managed to beat is the UKs shortest-serving Prime Minister Liz Truss. Advertisement Badenochs net approvals showed the divide among the voters. While 20 per cent approved of her, 25 per cent didnt agree with the way she is going as of now. About 46 per cent of voters who backed the Tories at the last election say they approve of her. Meanwhile, a third 35 per cent of the voters say they feel neutral. Her approval rating in this regard is still far better than the - 22 per cent score Sunak received at the end of his leadership in the party. As per the poll, the respondents perceived the new Tory leader as brave and decisive. In fact, the largest gap between Badenoch and Starmer is on bravery, with her net score of +8 per cent contrasting with Starmers net score of -19 per cent. Where does Starmer stand According to the Observer poll, the British prime ministers approval rating is low at -24 points and remained unchanged from the last poll conducted a fortnight ago. Despite his poor performance, he still leads Badenoch by 12 percentage points when voters are asked who they regard as the better prime minister. Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trumps return to the White House has polarised the British electorate. Almost a third (30 per cent) feel that Trumps election is positive for the US, compared with 44 per cent who called it a bad development. While 72 per cent still agree that the UK and the US have a lot in common, 56 per cent still consider the country a true ally. Day-to-day British politics has been overshadowed by the re-election of Donald Trump, which Brits see as good news for rivals like Russia and bad news for Ukraine. However, theres no sign yet that the public will be pressuring the Labour government to increase defence spending, with two in five opposed to any further tax rises to fund it," said James Crouch, head of policy and public affairs research at Opinium. Advertisement According to the Observer, around 2,050 voters took part in the poll which was conducted online from 11 to 13 November. With inputs from agencies. The talks in Islamabad came within six weeks of the IMF approving the bailout, an unusual move as it is rare for the fund to discuss reforms ahead of a review of the reform plan under the loan programme. read more Pakistans Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said that the country discussed its $7 billion bailout reform agenda with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) during an unscheduled staff visit last week, suggesting no new taxes are to be imposed. The talks in Islamabad came within six weeks of the IMF approving the bailout, an unusual move as it is rare for the fund to discuss reforms ahead of a review of the reform plan under the loan programme. A first review of Pakistans reforms is due in the first quarter of 2025. Advertisement We discussed reforms in taxation, energy sector, privatisation of loss-making state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and public finance, Aurangzeb said in a recorded video statement broadcast by state-run television. After wrapping up the visit, the IMF had said it was encouraged by Islamabads reaffirmed commitment to the economic reforms under the Extended Fund Facility its board had approved in September to reduce vulnerabilities. The mission did not state the weaknesses, but sources in Pakistans finance ministry have said some major lapses prompted the IMFs visit. Among these were a shortfall of nearly 190 billion rupees ($685 million) in revenue collection during the first quarter of the current fiscal year, the sources said. The period also saw an external financing gap of $2.5 billion, while Pakistan failed in the bid to sell its national airline. It had prompted fears that Pakistan might need to impose new taxes to bridge the shortfall. But Aurangzeb said the shortfall will be met only with enforcement to get people to pay their taxes, implying there would not be any new revenue measures. Advertisement We are going to be very firm on compliance and enforcement, he said, adding that al the sectors will have to play their role in contributing towards the countrys economy. The IMF said both sides agreed on the need to continue prudent fiscal and monetary policies, and to mobilise revenue from untapped tax bases. Pakistans $350 billion economy has struggled for decades with boom-and-bust cycles, needing 23 IMF bailouts since 1958. With inputs from agencies. The ongoing Biden administration is strengthening its military alliances in the Indo-Pacific region to counterbalance Chinas growing influence. This move complements the Philippines efforts to fortify its territorial defence amid ongoing disputes in the South China Sea. read more Philippine Navy Ship Ramon Alcaraz PS16 deploy rubber boats as they prepare to seize an island from foreign forces during a Philippine military multi-service joint exercise on Wednesday Nov. 6, 2024 at Loaita island locally called Kota island at the disputed South China Sea, Philippines. Image- AP The Philippines is shifting its military focus from combating separatist movements to addressing the growing threat from China. For decades, Philippine soldiers were deployed to combat Islamist separatist movements in the countrys southwest. Now, the military is undergoing a strategic shift to address what its leaders call an urgent threat: Chinas assertiveness in the South China Sea, a vital waterway claimed by multiple nations including the Philippines. The Philippines and six other countries claimed the strategic waterway and Beijings actions not only threatened Philippine security but also challenged Western efforts to contain Chinas power. Advertisement Philippine military overhaul In order to address this new threat, the Philippine military is rebuilding its capabilities, allocating the largest share of its modernisation budget to the navy for the first time, according to the report of Washington Post that quoted Philippine leaders and Western analysts as saying. The government is investing in missiles, fighter jets and warships, redirecting funds previously used for counterinsurgency campaigns. With relative peace secured in the southern islands, the Philippine Marine Corps is being retrained to fight foreign forces rather than militants. The Basilan Strait, within Philippine territorial waters, has seen at least 10 Chinese naval ships pass through on three occasions in 2024, without violating international law. However, Rear Adm. Francisco Tagamolila Jr. has increased surveillance and monitoring, upgrading undersea radar systems. Officers are receiving training on international law regarding foreign vessel stops and searches. Training and preparation The military is planning to establish forward operating bases on Basilan and other islands to support an increased naval presence. Instead of purchasing rifles and grenades, the command will acquire weapons to assert the Philippines maritime claims and resist intruders, according to Col. Allen Van Estrera. However, China has criticised the Philippines shift in focus, warning against playing with fire in disputed waters and vowing to crush hostile encroachment. The Chinese Embassy in Washington said that China has the right to freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea, blaming Philippine provocation for escalating tensions. Advertisement Rising tensions in the South China Sea China has rapidly expanded its military and has become increasingly assertive in pursuing territorial claims in the South China Sea, which Beijing claims virtually in its entirety. The tensions have led to more frequent confrontations, primarily with the Philippines and Vietnam, though the longtime territorial disputes also involve Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei and Taiwan. The outgoing Biden administration has moved to strengthen an arc of military alliances in the Indo-Pacific to better counter China, including in any future confrontation over Taiwan. Americas moves dovetail with Philippine efforts to shore up its territorial defence following its increasingly hostile territorial spats with China that started last year. Advertisement Combat exercises Philippine forces practised retaking an island in the South China Sea earlier this month in the first such combat exercise in the disputed waters as Chinese navy ships kept watch from a distance, the Philippine military chief said. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., who witnessed the drills from a navy frigate had said the exercise underscored the readiness of Filipino forces to defend the countrys sovereignty at all costs. We are warning our neighbors or whoever or any external forces that we are capable of defending our islands, Brawner told a small group of journalists invited to the exercises. The long-seething territorial disputes that also involve other claimants are a delicate fault line in the U.S.-China rivalry in Asia and likely will remain a major foreign policy concern for the next American president. Advertisement In the drills, a Philippine navy frigate approached Loaita Island, which the Philippines calls Kota Island, while four speedboats with marines and navy sailors landed on its beach. A Philippine air force aircraft later dropped food and other supplies to the forces that retook the island. Brawner said Chinese navy ships observing from a distance added realism to the exercise. With inputs from agencies. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recieved a grand welcome as he touched down in Nigeria to kick-start his three-nation visit. Upon his arrival in the Nigerian capital Abuja, PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome from Nigerias minister for federal capital territory, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, who presented him with the symbolic Key to the City of Abuja read more PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome from Nigeria's minister for federal capital territory, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, who presented him with the symbolic 'Key to the City' of Abuja. X - @narendramodi Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a grand welcome from the Indian diaspora as he arrived in Nigeria to kick-start his three-nation trip on Sunday. This marked the prime ministers first visit to the West African nation. He also became the first Indian PM to visit the country in 17 years. Upon his arrival in the Nigerian capital Abuja, PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome from Nigerias minister for federal capital territory, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, who presented him with the symbolic Key to the City of Abuja. Advertisement The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shared some new visuals of the prime ministers arrival in the country and highlighted the significance of the visit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Abuja, Nigeria. Warmly welcomed by Minister for Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, who presented the prime minister with the Key to the City of Abuja. The key symbolizes the trust and honour bestowed on the prime minister by the people of Nigeria, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a late-night post on X, formerly known as Twitter. PM @narendramodi arrives in Abuja, Nigeria. Warmly welcomed by Minister for Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Ezenwo Wike @GovWike, who presented PM with the Key to the City of Abuja. The key symbolises the trust and honour bestowed on PM by the people of . pic.twitter.com/9sX9IeGIEq Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) November 16, 2024 Whats on the agenda? The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and expressed hopes to strengthen the bilateral ties between the two nations. Landed a short while ago in Nigeria. Grateful for the warm welcome. May this visit deepen the bilateral friendship between our nations, he wrote on X. Thank you, President Tinubu. Landed a short while ago in Nigeria. Grateful for the warm welcome. May this visit deepen the bilateral friendship between our nations. @officialABAT https://t.co/hlRiwj1XnV pic.twitter.com/iVW1Pr60Zi Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 16, 2024 Advertisement In his departure statement, the Prime Minister maintained that one of his primary agendas for the visit is to build upon our Strategic Partnership that is based on shared belief in democracy and pluralism. I am also eagerly looking forward to meeting the Indian community and friends from Nigeria who have sent me warm welcome messages in Hindi, he added. From here, the Prime Minister will embark on his trip to Brazil where he will be attending the 19th edition of the G20 Summit as a Troika member. Last year, Indias successful Presidency elevated the G-20 to peoples G-20 and mainstreamed the priorities of the Global South into its Agenda. This year, Brazil has built upon Indias legacy. I look forward to meaningful discussions in keeping with our vision of One Earth, One Family, One Future. I will also use the opportunity to exchange views on furthering bilateral cooperation with several other leaders, PM Modi wrote in his departure statement on Saturday. Advertisement From here, the prime minister will be travelling to Guyana, where he will take part in the second India-CARICOM Summit. The Summit will enable us to renew historical ties and expand our cooperation into new domains, PM Modi concluded. Trump has repeatedly criticised the scale of Western aid to Kyiv and has promised to end the conflict swiftly, without explaining how. His victory in the Nov. 5 presidential election has spurred concerns in Kyiv and other European capitals about the degree of future U.S. commitment to helping Ukraine. read more In this photo provided by the Ukrainian Emergency Service, emergency services personnel work to extinguish a fire following a Russian rocket attack in Poltava region Ukraine, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024. - AP Ahead of potential negotiations with the incoming US administration, intensified fighting has erupted in western Russia where Ukraine controls approximately 200 square miles of Russias Kursk region. Amid prospects of peace talks under the incoming Trump administration, the Kremlin is focusing on reclaiming Russian territory in Kursk ahead of negotiations. Ukraines cross-border incursion in August initially secured substantial gains, but a relentless Russian counteroffensive has since recovered about half of the lost ground. Advertisement Russia launched a renewed assault last week, deploying thousands of troops, including an estimated 10,000 North Korean soldiers, according to US intelligence. This aggressive push follows Donald Trumps presidential election victory, where he vowed to swiftly end the conflict. Kremlin insiders suggest Russia aims to expel Ukrainian forces from Kursk before entering negotiations, ensuring only Ukrainian territory is up for discussion. Russian President Vladimir Putin seeks to maintain control over captured Ukrainian land and views Kursk as crucial in future talks. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov recently rejected proposals to freeze the conflict along current front lines, deeming it worse than the 2014 Minsk Agreements. Analysts predict Ukraines held territory will shrink further as Russias three-pronged assault continues. On Saturday, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Ukraine must do all it can to ensure the war with Russia ends next year through diplomacy, commenting at a decisive moment after Donald Trumps U.S. presidential election win and Russias grinding battlefield gains. However, Zelenskiy said Russian President Vladimir Putin was not interested in agreeing to a peace deal, and argued it was convenient for Moscow to sit down to talk while continuing to fight. From our side, we must do everything so that this war ends next year, ends through diplomatic means, Zelenskiy said in a Ukrainian radio interview aired on Saturday. Advertisement Moscows ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva said on Thursday that Russia would be open to negotiations to end the war if initiated by Trump, although he added that they would have to acknowledge realities on the ground. Moscow uses this phrase to mean Ukraine would have to cede four regions that Russian forces have partly occupied and that Russia has claimed in their entirety. Zelenskiy has repeatedly said since Russias full-scale invasion in February 2022 that peace cannot be established until all Russian forces are expelled and all territory captured by Moscow, including Crimea, is returned. However, a return to Ukraines internationally recognised 1991 borders was not mentioned in the presidents victory plan that he publicly presented last month. Advertisement Zelenskiy said the war was likely to end quicker under Trump, who said often during his campaign that he would rapidly end the conflict, without giving specifics. With inputs from agencies. Russia on Sunday launched a massive drone and missile attack on Ukraine, described by officials as the largest in recent months, targeting energy infrastructure and killing civilians. read more In this photo provided by the Ukrainian Emergency Service, emergency services personnel work to extinguish a fire following a Russian rocket attack in Lviv, Ukraine, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024. Image- AP All Ukrainian regions will experience temporary restrictions on power on Monday following Russias massive air strike on the energy system, the national grid operator said. Russia unleashed its largest air attack on Ukraine in almost three months on Sunday, killing seven people and further hobbling an already damaged energy system. attack came as fears are mounting about Moscows intentions to devastate Ukraines power generation capacity ahead of the winter. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Russia had launched a total of 120 missiles and 90 drones in a large-scale attack across Ukraine. Various types of drones were deployed, he said, including Iranian-made Shaheds, as well as cruise, ballistic and aircraft-launched ballistic missiles. Advertisement Ukrainian defenses shot down 144 out of a total of 210 air targets, Ukraines air force reported later on Sunday. The enemys target was our energy infrastructure throughout Ukraine. Unfortunately, there is damage to objects from hits and falling debris. In Mykolaiv, as a result of a drone attack, two people were killed and six others were injured, including two children," Zelenskyy said. In a statement, Ukrenergo said temporary cut-offs would last from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m., and that workers were repairing damages as quickly as possible. After Sundays strike, Ukrainian officials had confirmed damage to critical infrastructure or power cuts in regions from Volyn, Rivne and Lviv in the west to Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhzhia in the southeast. The extent of the damage was hard to assess because authorities reveal little about the outcome of strikes and the state of the energy grid, which Russia had targeted in an air campaign earlier this year. Russias defence ministry said it had launched a massive strike on energy facilities that supply Ukraines military-industrial complex. With inputs from agencies. Saudi Arabia has faced persistent criticism over its use of the death penalty, which human rights groups have condemned as excessive and out of step with efforts to soften its forbidding image and welcome international tourists and investors. read more Saudi Arabia has executed more than 100 foreigners this year, according to an AFP tally indicating a sharp increase which one rights group said was unprecedented. The latest execution, on Saturday in the southwestern region of Najran, was of a Yemeni national convicted of smuggling drugs into the Gulf kingdom, the official Saudi Press Agency reported. That brought to 101 the number of foreigners executed so far in 2024, according to the tally which is compiled from state media reports. Advertisement This is almost triple the figures for 2023 and 2022, when Saudi authorities had put to death 34 foreigners each year, according to AFP tallies. The Berlin-based European-Saudi Organisation for Human Rights (ESOHR) said this years executions had already broken a record. This is the largest number of executions of foreigners in one year. Saudi Arabia has never executed 100 foreigners in a year, said Taha al-Hajji, the groups legal director. The oil-rich kingdom executed the third highest number of prisoners in the world after China and Iran in 2023, according to Amnesty International. In September, AFP reported that Saudi Arabia had carried out its highest number of executions in more than three decades, surpassing its previous highs of 196 in 2022 and 192 in 1995. Executions have continued at a rapid clip since then and totalled 274 for the year as of Sunday, according to AFPs tally. Execution crisis Foreigners executed this year have included 21 from Pakistan, 20 from Yemen, 14 from Syria, 10 from Nigeria, nine from Egypt, eight from Jordan and seven from Ethiopia. There were also three each from Sudan, India and Afghanistan, and one each from Sri Lanka, Eritrea and the Philippines. Saudi Arabia in 2022 ended a three-year moratorium on the execution of drug offenders, and executions for drug-related crimes have boosted this years numbers. Advertisement There have been 92 such executions so far this year, 69 of them of foreigners, according to the AFP tally. Diplomats and activists say that foreign defendants usually face a higher barrier to fair trials, including the right to access court documents. Foreigners are the most vulnerable group, said Hajji of the ESOHR. Not only are they often victims of major drug dealers but also subjected to a series of violations from the moment of their arrest until their execution, he said. Saudi Arabia is notorious for beheading those convicted of capital crimes, although official statements tend not to mention the method of execution. The high number of executions undercuts statements by Saudi Arabias de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who told The Atlantic in 2022 that the kingdom had eliminated the death penalty with the exception of murder cases or when an individual posed a threat to many lives. Advertisement Jeed Basyouni, who heads Middle East anti-death penalty advocacy for the NGO Reprieve, said persistent drug arrests were perpetuating the cycle of violence. The overall number of executions was on track to exceed 300 for the year, she noted. This is an unprecedented execution crisis in Saudi Arabia, said Basyouni. Families of foreign nationals on death row are understandably terrified that their loved one will be next. With inputs from agencies. In a joint statement, the ministers shared serious concern over destabilising actions in the East and South China Seas, including dangerous conduct by Chinas military against vessels from the Philippines and other regional nations read more Troops from Japan, US, and Australia will train together in Northern Australia. Image used for representational purpose/AP Japan will deploy troops to northern Australia for joint training with United States Marines and Australian forces starting in 2025, defence ministers from the three nations announced Sunday (November 17). The declaration comes amid growing concern over Chinas military activities in the region. Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles hosted outgoing US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin and Japanese Defence Minister Nakatani Gen for trilateral talks in Darwin. The officials outlined plans for amphibious training under Exercise Talisman Sabre and revealed Australias upcoming participation in Japans Exercise Orient Shield for the first time in 2024. Advertisement In a joint statement, the ministers expressed serious concern over destabilising actions in the East and South China Seas, including dangerous conduct by Chinas military against vessels from the Philippines and other regional nations. China claims nearly the entire South China Sea as its territory, a claim disputed by several countries. The statement also focused on the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. China considers self-ruled Taiwan a breakaway province and has increased military maneuvers around the island. Marles described the new training collaboration with Japan and the US as a significant step toward closer military ties. Having a more forward-leaning opportunity for greater training with Japan and the US together is a really fantastic opportunity, he said. The United States, Japan, and Australia are all members of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, commonly known as the Quad, which also includes India. This strategic forum, whose stated aim is to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific region through cooperation on security, economic, and health issues, de facto acts as a counterbalance to Beijing in the Indo-Pacific region. When asked whether the move might provoke Beijing, Marles said that the focus was on strengthening partnerships with like-minded countries, with our friends and with our allies. With inputs from agencies President-elect Donald Trump picked Liberty Energy CEO Chir Wright to be the next US Energy Secretary. Wright has been an ardent supporter of Trumps calls to increase the production of oil and ignoring global efforts to deal with climate change read more Chris Wright rings a ceremonial bell to celebrate his companys IPO on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange, on 12 January 2018. File Image/ Reuters In the latest addition to his controversial cabinet, US President-elect Donald Trump named the oil and gas industry executive Chris Wright as the US Secretary of Energy. Wright is the founder and CEO of Liberty Energy, an oilfield services firm based in Denver, Colorado. The oil mogul is expected to support Trumps plans to maximize the production of oil and gas to meet electricity needs which rose for the first time in decades. Advertisement Many believe Wright will also support Trumps opposition to global cooperation in fighting climate change. Such assertions are being made because Wright has called climate change activists alarmist and has likened efforts by Democrats to combat global warming to Soviet-style communism. There is no climate crisis, and were not in the midst of an energy transition, either, Wright said in a video which he shared on LinkedIn last year. The man with no political experience It is pertinent to note that Wright does not have any sort of political experience but he has written a lot about the need for more fossil fuel production to lift people out of poverty. He made headlines in 2019 when he drank fracking fluid on camera to demonstrate it was not dangerous. Interestingly, the US oil output hit the highest level any country has ever produced under President Joe Bidens administration. It is uncertain exactly how much Wright and the incoming administration could boost that. However, most drilling decisions are currently driven by private companies working on land not owned by the federal government. The Department of Energy is responsible for handling US energy diplomacy, administers the Strategic Petroleum Reserve which Trump has said he wants to replenish and runs grant and loan programs to advance energy technologies, such as the Loan Programs Office. It is pertinent to note, that the US energy secretary is also responsible for overseeing the US nuclear weapons complex, nuclear energy waste disposal and 17 national labs. If his nomination is confirmed by the Senate, Wright will replace Jennifer Granholm, who is a supporter of electric vehicles and emerging energy sources like geothermal power, and a backer of carbon-free wind, solar and nuclear energy. Advertisement Power demand in the United States reached its highest level in two decades with many believing happened growth in artificial intelligence, electric vehicles and cryptocurrencies. With inputs from agencies. Two flares were fired at Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus private residence in Caesarea on Saturday, Israels Shin Bet launched an investigation into the matter, calling it a dangerous escalation read more Amid the brewing tension in West Asia, Israels Shin Bet and local authorities said on Saturday that two flares were fired at the countrys Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus private residence in Caesarea. According to The Times of Israel, the Israeli police stated that flares landed in the houses yard and no damage was reported in the incident. A joint statement from Shin Bet and Israeli police made it clear that Netanyahu and his family were not at home when the attack took place. The authorities also informed that they had opened an investigation into the matter and called the attack the grave incident, which marks a dangerous escalation. Advertisement The incident drew criticism from across Israels political system. Opposition leader Yair Lapid and National Unity chairman Benny Gantz both issued statements condemning the attack, urging the law enforcement agencies to bring the guilty to justice. : " | pic.twitter.com/pFdIQyHQNY (@kann_news) November 16, 2024 Meanwhile, Yisrael Beytenu chief Avigdor Liberman said it signifies an escalation in the attempt to harm the democratic institutions of the State of Israel. Full backing must be given to the Shin Bet and the Israel Police in the investigation, and those involved must be brought to justice, Liberman added. Israels president calls for urgent investigation Meanwhile, Israels President Isaac Herzog also issued a strong condemnation and mentioned that he received a briefing from Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar. Herzog called for an urgent investigation into the matter after Bar informed him that the incident was seen as a dangerous escalation and was being treated with the utmost seriousness. The flames must not be allowed to escalate. I am again warning against an increase in violence in the public sphere, Herzog wrote in a separate statement. While denouncing the attack, Justice Minister Yariv Levin called the incident an assassination attempt on Netanyahu to overthrow his government. The justice minister went on to resume calls for a judicial overhaul in response to the attack. Meanwhile, Gantz slammed Levins assertion, warning that the last time the process was attempted it brought disaster to the State of Israel. The coup detat led by Yariv Levin brought disaster to the State of Israel, tore us apart from the inside and was a large part of how we reached October 7, Gantz wrote on X. Advertisement The fact that he brings up the idea of returning to it while the entirety of Israeli society is mobilized amid a difficult war proves that not only has he not learned his lesson he is also an irresponsible person, he added. This is not the first time Netanyahus Caesarea home has been attacked. Last month, the Israeli premiers private residence was lightly damaged in a Hezbollah drone attack. With inputs from agencies. Merz believes that revisiting the policies that helped drive Germanys postwar economic miracle will provide the path to unlocking a new era of prosperity in the country read more Chairman of Christian Democratic Union (CDU) Friedrich Merz walks at the lower house of parliament, the Bundestag, in Berlin, Germany September 10, 2024. Reuters Germanys Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is expected to get the largest share of votes in the countrys upcomign snap elections called by Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The partys leader and Germanys chancellor-hopeful is Friedrich Merz. Heres a look at who the man is and what his plans for Europes largest economy are. Who is Friedrich Merz? Merz, 69, is German politician who also had a stint as a businessman. He began his political journey in 1972 by joining the Young Union, the youth wing of the CDU. He was elected to the European Parliament in 1989, serving until 1994. Subsequently, he became a member of the Bundestag, Germanys federal parliament, where he established himself as a leading financial policy expert within the party. Advertisement He has been serving as the leader of the CDU since January 2022. Under his leadership, the CDU has adopted more conservative and economically liberal positions, marking a shift from the centrist policies of his predecessor, Angela Merkel. In September 2024, Merz was designated as the CDU/CSUs candidate for Chancellor of Germany in the upcoming federal elections, scheduled for February 2025. This nomination followed the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholzs coalition government, leading to snap elections. Merzs leadership style contrasts with the more consensus-driven approaches of previous leaders, according to Financial Times. He has been a vocal critic of the current governments handling of economic issues and has called for reforms to boost Germanys economic competitiveness. Friedrich Merzs plans for German economy Germanys economy faces mounting pressure, with the Council of Economic Experts forecasting a second consecutive year of contraction in 2024 and minimal growth in 2025. Iconic companies like Volkswagen are mulling domestic factory closures, and parts makers such as Schaeffler and ZF Friedrichshafen have announced significant layoffs. Merz believes that revisiting the policies that helped drive Germanys postwar economic miracle will provide the path to unlocking a new era of prosperity in the country, according to Bloomberg. He aims to lower taxes, cut red tape, and reduce government handouts, focusing on fostering innovation and restoring Germanys economic competitiveness. His platform, shaped by a decade in corporate roles at firms like BlackRocks German subsidiary, stresses blending free-market principles with social protections a hallmark of Ludwig Erhards social market economy, which guided Germanys postwar boom. Advertisement The CDU leader has also signalled openness to creating an investment fund for infrastructure improvements, provided it aligns with fiscal conservatism. Economists see echoes of former Chancellor Gerhard Schroeders early 2000s reforms in Merzs proposals. Those measures boosted competitiveness and ushered in an industrial revival. However, critics question whether this strategy can address modern challenges, including an energy transition, waning global competitiveness, and tech-sector dominance. Merz, a fiscal conservative, has hinted at revisiting Germanys stringent debt brake, with analysts estimating modest borrowing increases could yield substantial economic benefits. Yet, political realities could limit his ambitions. While Merzs CDU is poised to win the largest share of votes in the February 2025 elections, forming a coalition could mean compromises with the Greens or Social Democrats, who may temper his business-friendly agenda in favour of more sustainable and equitable growth. Advertisement With inputs from agencies Yunus, a microfinance pioneer, is leading a temporary administration, to tackle what he has called the extremely tough challenge of restoring democratic institutions in the South Asian nation of some 170 million people. read more As Bangladeshs interim leader Muhammad Yunus completed 100 days in power following a student-led revolution, he urged the nation to be patient as the country prepares for much-anticipated elections. Addressing to the nation, the 84-year-old Nobel Peace Prize laureate called the task of restoring democratic institutions extremely tough but essential. Yunus, a pioneering figure in microfinance, was appointed as the chief advisor on August 9, after the student-led uprising led to the end of Sheikh Hasinas 15-year authoritarian rule. As head of a temporary administration, Yunus faces the challenge of overseeing the transition to a fully democratic government in a nation of over 170 million people. Advertisement Vowing an election commission will be formed within a few days, Yunus said he could not give a timeframe for elections, saying it was dependent on a raft of election and constitutional reforms. I promise that we will hold the much-anticipated election once the necessary and essential reforms are complete, he said in the broadcast. I request your patience until then. We aim to build an electoral system that will endure for decades. For this, we need some time. Yunus said his administration was also focused on ensuring those guilty of cracking down on the protests to oust Hasina faced justice, and said he had spoken to Karim Khan, chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court. Bangladesh has issued an arrest warrant for 77-year-old Hasina last seen arriving in neighbouring India after fleeing by helicopter as crowds stormed her palace. Hasina has been summoned to appear in court in Dhaka on Monday to face charges of massacres, killings, and crimes against humanity, but she remains in exile in India. Several of her former government ministers, who were detained and held in custody, are expected in court to face similar charges. We have already taken initiatives to try those responsible for enforced disappearances, murders, and the mass killings during the July-August uprising, Yunus said. Crisis Group analyst Thomas Kean has called the challenge facing Yunus monumental, warning of that cracks are emerging in the fragile alliance that pushed him into power. Advertisement For now, Yunus and his colleagues have widespread support, but popular expectations are double-edged, the thinktank said in report on Thursday. If the interim administration falters in making reforms, the outcome is likely to be an early election with little progress; in the worst-case scenario, the military could assume power. With inputs from agencies.